cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Selective activation of Lyt 2 + precursor T cells by ligation of the antigen receptor

Resting T lymphocytes may be activated either physiologically, by the specific recognition of antigen in association with molecules encoded by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), or non-physiologically using mitogens such as concanavalin A (Con A). The former activation process is difficult to analyse because resting precursor T cells specific for a particular antigen–MHC combination can only be isolated in the presence of a large excess of bystander cells of irrelevant specificity; clonal populations of uniform specificity are not useful for studying the activation of naive T cells because there is no reason to believe that such cloned cells ever return to the state of resting precursors. Mitogens may activate a large fraction of resting T cells, but analysis is again complicated because the target molecule(s) of most mitogens is unknown and the relationship of this kind of activation to physiological induction by antigen plus MHC molecules remains unclear. By using a monoclonal antibody specific for the antigen receptors on ∼25% of all T cells of both Lyt 2+ and Lyt 2− subsets, we have studied the induction of lymphokine responsiveness in resting normal T cells. This antibody, immobilized on Sepharose beads, is sufficient to activate Lyt 2+ T cells, but not Lyt 2− T cells, to clonal expansion in the presence of a mixture of lymphokines (10% rat spleen Con A supernatant). We report here that clonal growth of the T cells obeys single-hit kinetics in limiting-dilution microcultures, suggesting that a single cell type is limiting. We conclude that cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (Tc) precursors require only ligation of the antigen receptor before they become responsive to lymphokines, whereas helper T-lymphocyte (Th) precursors require additional signals.
Decay of 74As

Abstract Gamma-ray spectrum and γ-γ directional correlation measurements were performed with Ge(Li) and NaIGe(Li) detector arrangements on the decay of 74As. Eleven transitions from 595.7 to 2198.4 keV were observed and fitted into levels at 595.7±0.1, 1204.3±0.1, 1463.2±1.0, 1482.6±0.5, 1697.3±1.0, and 2198.2±0.5 keV in 74 Ge and 634.8±0.1 keV in 74 Se . Directional correlation measurements were performed on the 608-596 keV 2-2-0 cascade and on the 887-596 keV cascade. In the first case, A2 = −0.24±0.04, A4 = 0.30±0.05. These data yielded a (7−6+3)% M1 admixture for the 608 keV transition. For the latter correlation, values of A2 = 0.6±0.2 and A4 = 1.3±0.2 were found. These values are compatible only with the 0-2-0 cascade and thus the level at 1482.6 keV has spin zero. Percent feedings and log ft values were calculated for decays to 74Ge and 74Se.
Metabolism of depleted turtle bladder.

Oxygen consumption, glycogen content, transmural potential difference (PD), and short-circuit current (SCC) were measured in fresh turtle hemibladder sacs and in matching sacs depleted by 18 hr of incubation in aerated, substrate-free Ringer's solution. Percent of original values after depletion were: oxygen consumption, 61%; glycogen content, 36%; PD, 28%; SCC, 19%. PD and SCC responded to addition of substrate (5.5mm glucose plus 2mm pyruvate) by a lag period of approximately 2 hr followed by progressive increases lasting for many hours. Other experiments utilized split bladders. The epithelium and adhering connective tissue (mucosal fraction) were separated from the underlying smooth muscle and connective tissue (serosal fraction) and the oxygen consumption and glycogen content of slices of the two fractions determined. Mucosal oxygen consumption declined to 48% of the original value during depletion while serosal oxygen consumption (initially much lower than mucosal) was well-maintained at 95% of the original value. Substantial net synthesis of glycogen took place in both fractions of depleted bladders after addition of substrate. The ratio of moles of oxygen consumed to moles of glucose (from glycogen) disappearing during the 18-hr depletion period was approximately 5.5 for serosal tissue and within the range 30 to 61 for mucosal tissue. The mucosal ratio was incompatible with the utilization of glycogen as the major endogenous substrate during depletion under aerobic conditions. It is suggested that the oxidation of lipid supports most of the endogenous metabolism in the mucosal tissue of the turtle bladder.
Equivalence of quadratic performance criteria

Necessary and sufficient conditions are derived in terms of system parameters and quadratic weighting matrices for two quadratic cost functionals that are defined to be equivalent if they generate the same optimal control law. The derived conditions lie between the conditions of Tanaka and Asai (1971) and those of Kreindler and Hedrick (1970). Sufficient conditions for a vector valued function to attain an infimum are stated.
Extension of JC virus host range to monkey cells by insertion of a simian virus 40 enhancer into the JC virus regulatory region.

Abstract A chimeric polyomavirus genome was constructed by inserting the 72- and the 21-bp repeats of simian virus 40 (SV40) into the 1C virus (JCV) regulatory region on the late side of the JCV 98-bp repeats. Although the chimeric polyomavirus DNA was able to replicate very well in human fetal glial cells, deletions were found in sequences of the regulatory region. DNA sequence analysis of a selected clone indicated a 294-bp deletion from the original construction that retained the sequences for the JCV replication origin, 78 by of one 98-bp repeat, 33 by of one SV40 72-bp repeat, and one intact 72-bp repeat. Of significant interest was that this genome demonstrated an extended species and cell-type host range, producing infectious virus in human fetal brain and embryonic kidney as well as in rhesus monkey fetal and adult glial cells. However, the species host range was not extended beyond primate cells since the chimeric polyomavirus was unable to multiply in rodent glial cells. Analysis of the viral RNA transcripts from either kidney or glial cells indicated that the major start sites for early RNA mapped within the JCV sequences of the regulatory region and major start sites for late RNA mapped within the JCV and SV40 sequences. This extension of the JC virus host range was most likely attributable to changes in the regulatory region and not the viral T protein since a recombinant DNA clone which placed the coding sequences for the wild-type JCV T protein subject to regulation by the deleted chimeric regulatory region showed a similar extension of host range.
Molecular biology of leukemia.

Abstract Objective To review the current tests for diagnosis and the implications of cytogenetic analysis in leukemia. Data sources Professional journals, books. Conclusion Leukemia is a genetic disorder with more than 500 recurring translocations. Recurrent chromosomal changes occur in more than one half of all cases of leukemia. Testing includes bone marrow biopsy and aspirate, histochemical staining, immunophenotyping, cytogenetics, and molecular markers. Characterization of specific chromosome changes provides information in determining initial therapy and post-remission therapy. Implications for nursing practice Nurses must continually educate themselves to stay current with developing technology and the results of continuing research. This professional education must then be translated to the bedside throughout the continuum of care.
Designed solvent-free approach toward organometallic networks built on directional metal–π-arene interactions☆

Abstract This work overviews our recent results on application of the gas phase deposition approach toward controlled formation of novel solid organometallic networks. Volatile electrophilic dimetal complexes of Rh(II), Ru(II), and Ru(I) and various organic π-donors have been used as complementary building blocks in co-deposition reactions. The selected ligands range from hydrocarbons having isolated π-bonds and aromatic rings to conjugated polyarenes with planar or curved unsaturated carbon surfaces. The selected dimetal core complexes have a strong avidity for axial coordination and function as linear spacers in organometallic assembling reactions. Co-deposition of the above blocks in a solvent-free environment results in the controlled assembling of crystalline organometallic products. The technique is very effective in differentiation of π-bonding sites of multifunctional ligands and in utilization of directional metal–π-arene interactions for the construction of extended frameworks.
Paravertebral somatic nerve block compared with peripheral nerve blocks for outpatient inguinal herniorrhaphy.

Background Inguinal herniorrhaphy (IH) is a common outpatient procedure, yet postoperative pain and anesthetic side effects remain a problem. Paravertebral somatic nerve blocks (PVB) have the potential to offer unilateral abdominal wall anesthesia and long-lasting pain relief with minimal side effects. We compared PVB with peripheral neural blocks for outpatient IH. Methods Forty-six patients scheduled for IH were entered into this prospective, single-blind study. All patients underwent a standardized general anesthetic. Patients were randomly assigned to receive a PVB (levels T10-L2) preoperatively (n = 24) or an intraoperative peripheral block (PB) by the surgeon (n = 22), using 0.5% ropivacaine (40 mL). Opioid use, verbal analog pain scores, and side effects were documented for 72 hours. Results The use of opioids during surgery was less for the PVB group 162 ± 70 mg than the PB group, 210 ± 60 (P = .02). Need for opioids in PACU was less for the PVB group (39%) than the PB group (61%) (P = .002). Time until first pain after discharge was not different between groups, 312 ± 446 minutes (PB) and 425 ± 384 minutes (PVB) (P = .12). Of the PVB patients, 29% used no opioids at all compared with 18% of PB patients (P = .12). Mean time until first oxycodone use was similar between groups, 303 ± 469 minutes (PB) and 295 ± 225 minutes (PVB) (P = .18). Oxycodone use was also similar; 35 ± 34 mg (PVB) versus 49 ± 42 mg (PB) (P = .30). More patients in the PB group (50%) required antiemetic treatment in the postanesthesia care unit than the PVB group (21%) (P Conclusions This study shows that PVB provides analgesia equivalent to extensive peripheral nerve block for inguinal herniorrhaphy, offering an alternative method of postoperative pain management and perhaps fewer side effects.
Informatics and infectious diseases: What is the connection and efficacy of information technology tools for therapy and health care epidemiology?

Increases in use of electronic medical records and availability of information technology tools have created opportunities for automation of surveillance. Automation of data collection tasks may improve the timeliness and completeness of surveillance, may allow infection control professionals to have more time for interventions, and should facilitate new areas of surveillance. Many factors must be considered in the development of an infection control data warehouse, including the needs of users, completeness and validity of data, and availability of reports. We present examples of uses of a developed data warehouse in improving efficacy of infection control.
Framing Effects on Public Opinion about Nanotechnology

In this study, I examine whether Americans’ emotions and opinions about nanotechnology are influenced by how the issue is framed. Using data collected from an experiment embedded within a national survey, I find consistent framing effects even though the magnitudes of respondents’ opinion changes are not especially large. Frames about specific risks and benefits of nanotechnology are more influential than frames based on general beliefs about the merits of science, and framing nanotechnology as beneficial is only somewhat less powerful than framing it as risky. I conclude by discussing the implications of these framing effects for future mass opinions about nanotechnology.
Sleep Patterns and Sleep-Related Factors Between Caregiving and Non-Caregiving Women

This exploratory study compared objective sleep patterns and sleep-related factors between caregiving and non-caregiving women with sleep impairments, and compared the sleep patterns of the caregivers with their care recipients. Nine women caring for adults with dementia and a comparison sample of 34 non-caregiving women provided three nights of in-home polysomnography (PSG) and self-report questionnaires of sleep quality and physical and emotional well-being. Care recipients' sleep was monitored with actigraphy on the same nights of the caregivers' PSG. Caregivers and non-caregivers' sleep patterns were similar across most PSG-measured parameters. Caregivers perceived more sleep disturbances, but PSG showed minimal differences compared to non-caregivers. Caregivers reported more depressive symptoms, and depression was strongly correlated with longer sleep latency. Caregiver's sleep quantity was highly correlated with the sleep quantity of their care recipient. The results suggest that, in this sample, caregivers' sleep was not significantly different from the non-caregiving women, despite differences in perceptions. Although the sample is small, this exploratory study supports the use of multiple nights of in-home PSG to assess caregiver sleep and provides more data on sleep patterns of female dementia caregivers and their relatives.
Gene dosage effect on starch structure studied using maize polygenic model containing ae and su1 mutant alleles

Abstract The aim of this work was to enhance our understanding on the gene dosage effect on starch structure. Two mutant alleles, ae and su1 , were selected for this study. With regard to their genetic functions, ae and su1 mutations are at two opposite extremes; therefore ae and su1 constituted an ideal pair of mutant alleles for manipulating starch structures. A full set of dosage combinations of ae and su1 were constructed in the maize W64A inbred line, and matured kernels were subjected to starch structure analysis. Scanning electron microscopy showed that starch granule morphology was affected by high doses of ae and su1 alleles. X-ray powder diffraction showed that 3 doses of su1 were not able to change the crystalline pattern of starch, whereas 3 doses of ae transformed A-type pattern to B-type. Size-exclusion chromatography showed that homozygous ae , su1 , and ae su1 led to drastic change of starch structure from that of non-mutant . In addition, starches from certain ae and su1 dosage combinations were different from those of homozygous genotypes. This study will lay further foundation towards genetic modification of starch for desirable functional properties in food.
EFFECT OF INDIVIDUAL N-GLYCOSYL CHAINS IN THE BETA -SUBUNIT ON THE CONFORMATION OF HUMAN CHORIOGONADOTROPIN

Abstract Human choriogonadotropin is a heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone comprised of noncovalently associated α- and β-subunits. Each of the subunits has two N-glycosyl chains. In our previous communication, we investigated the role of individual carbohydrate chains in the α-subunit on the signal transduction function and conformation of the hormone. This paper deals with the effect of individual or both N-glycosyl chains in the β-subunit on the function and conformation of the monomer as well as of the heterodimer. Three mutants each of hCGβ and hCG lacking N-glycosyl chains at β13Asn, β30Asn and β13,30Asn were prepared by site-directed mutagenesis by replacing Thr residues in the recognition triplet sequence at β15 and β32 positions with Gln. All mutant heterodimers had receptor binding and cAMP and progesterone stimulating activities comparable to wild type hCG. While the loss of carbohydrate at β13Asn or β13,30Asn in the case of hCGβ monomer resulted in a 4–6% decrease in the ordered structure, the loss of the glycosyl chain at β30Asn did not alter the conformation as compared with the wild type hCGβ. Similarly, all carbohydrate deficient hCG heterodimers had a decrease of 6–8% in the ordered structure as compared with hCG. Thus, while the individual N-glycosyl chains did not affect the function of the hormone, they did have marked effect on its conformation but the conformational changes were localized and did not perturb the receptor binding and signal transduction sites.
Higher order hybrid Monte Carlo

Abstract The Hybrid Monte Carlo algorithm requires a mapping on phase space which is area-preserving, reversible, and at least approximately conserves energy. We are thus naturally lead to investigate schemes for the numerical integration of Hamilton's equations. First we generalize the “leapfrog” scheme to higher order in the time step δτ, and show why we cannot find an initial “half-step” which satisfies the constraints required for Hybrid Monte Carlo. We then introduce a new symmetric integration scheme which can be used to any order in δτ, and we prove that it too is exactly reversible and area-preserving order-by-order in δτ. Finally, we show that the symmetric integration scheme conserves energy exactly for the simple harmonic oscillator, and we give numerical results for the anharmonic oscillator.
Evanescent quadrupole polariton

Abstract In this work we demonstrate the formation of a new type of polariton on the interface between a cuprous oxide slab and a polystyrene microsphere placed on the slab. The evanescent field of the resonant whispering gallery mode (WGM) of the microsphere has a substantial gradient, and therefore effectively couples with the quadrupole 1S excitons in cuprous oxide. This evanescent polariton has a long lifetime, which is determined only by its excitonic and WGM component. The polariton lower branch has a well-pronounced minimum. This suggests that this excitation is localized and can be utilized for possible BEC. The spatial coherence of the polariton can be improved by assembling the microspheres into a linear chain.
Hyperfine quantum beats in C2N2

Abstract Molecular quantum beats are observed in the isotropic fluorescence decay following laser excitation of individual rotational states of C 2 N 2 via the vibronically allowed 4 1 0 A( 1 Σ − u )←X( 1 Σ + g ) transition near 219 nm. Strong quantum beats occur with selective excitation, by both P- and R-branch transitions, of over a dozen rotational states. Observations of hyperfine quantum beats following excitation of the N ′ = 12 rotational level yield estimates of spin—orbit coupling matrix elements, Born-Oppenheimer state separations, and magnetic and quadrupolar hyperfine coupling constants. Observations of Zeeman splitting establish that the three hyperfine levels of N ′ = 12 are coupled to those of a single triplet state.
The interaction between acid dye and nonionic surfactant

Abstract A multiplicity of transitions is observed, when the surface tension of aqueous solutions of nonionic surfactant ( S ) in the presence of the dye ( D ), C. I. Acid Blue 120, which interacts strongly with nonionic surfactant to form a dye-surfactant complex, is measured at a constant concentration of the dye and plotted as a function of surfactant concentration. Such a characteristic curve reflects on the process of complex formations through the surface adsorption of free surfactant molecules in the solution. Analysis for the process leads to the conclusion that small complexes DS n with n corresponding to 2 or 3, are formed in the region of lower surfactant concentrations, and that large complexes DS l , where l is from about 10 to 30, are formed in the region of higher surfactant concentrations.
High and Low Implementers of Content Literacy Instruction: Portraits of Teacher Efficacy.

Abstract This study used a teacher efficacy framework to describe the perceptions of high and low implementers of content literacy instruction in the context of a year-long professional development program. Interviews from middle and high school content teachers illustrated efficacy differences between teachers who demonstrated high and low levels of content literacy implementation. High implementers exhibited higher levels of general, personal, and collective efficacy, whereas low implementers exhibited lower levels of efficacy for literacy teaching. Although both high and low implementers perceived content literacy positively, high implementers were characterized by persistence in overcoming barriers associated with content literacy implementation.
Comparison of steric effects on 31P chemical shifts in some 7-norbornyl, 7-norbornenyl and cyclohexyl phosphorus compounds†

Phosphorus-31 NMR spectra were obtained on both syn and anti isomers of norbornenes with the 7-position bearing Cl2P-, Me2P-, Me2(S)P- and Me3P as substituents. Norbornanes with 7-Cl2P- and 7-Me2P- were also studied. Just as is true for 13C shifts for 7-Me in these bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane derivatives, the 31P shifts all fall noticeably upfield of published values for comparable cyclohexane derivatives. Consistent also with the 13C effect, a slight shielding of 31P in Me2P- (1.1 ppm) was noted when this group was syn to the double bond of the norbornene system, relative to the value for the anti compound, suggesting the sensitivity of 31P to a diamagnetic effect from the double bond. However, the more space-demanding Cl2P group when moved from the crowded anti to the less crowded syn position experienced a strong deshielding effect, as did the Me2(S)P- and Me3P- groups. The opposite is seen when these same groups are moved from the crowded axial to the less crowded equatorial position of cyclohexane, and a new structural influence appears to be operating in this system. A recent proposal that steric compression causes bond angles about phosphorus to increase and that this is the cause of the γ-shielding effect is not supported by published NMR and X-ray structural data for cis- and trans-1-methyl-4-tert-butyl-4-phosphorinanol. Bond angles about phosphorus are virtually identical in these isomers, yet 31P shifts differ by 6.9 ppm.
Challenges of metamorphosis in invertebrate hosts: maintaining parasite resistance across life‐history stages

1. Insects lack the acquired immune system of vertebrates, but there is some evidence that insect immunity can be primed against an encountered pathogen to mitigate the intensity of future infections within a life stage. 2. Many invertebrates have multiple life-history stages separated by complete metamorphosis, but different life stages can often be infected by the same pathogens, and the potential loss of immune priming during metamorphosis could therefore have detrimental effects on the host. Evidence that invertebrate immune priming can persist through metamorphosis is still missing, and consequently it is unclear how host–parasite interactions change across different life-history stages in the context of infection history. 3. By experimentally manipulating the infection history of the flour beetle Tribolium confusum, we show that intestinal gregarine parasite infections during the larval stage reduced parasite load in adults, demonstrating that a host-controlled mechanism for parasite resistance can persist through complete metamorphosis in insects. 4. Infections reduced larval developmental rates and increased host mortality but only during the crucial metamorphic stage, indicating that parasites impact multiple life stages. In general, our results demonstrate that invertebrates can show surprisingly robust immune priming despite dramatic physiological changes and protect hosts across completely different life-history stages.
3D printed bionic ears.

The ability to three-dimensionally interweave biological tissue with functional electronics could enable the creation of bionic organs possessing enhanced functionalities over their human counterparts. Conventional electronic devices are inherently two-dimensional, preventing seamless multidimensional integration with synthetic biology, as the processes and materials are very different. Here, we present a novel strategy for overcoming these difficulties via additive manufacturing of biological cells with structural and nanoparticle derived electronic elements. As a proof of concept, we generated a bionic ear via 3D printing of a cell-seeded hydrogel matrix in the anatomic geometry of a human ear, along with an intertwined conducting polymer consisting of infused silver nanoparticles. This allowed for in vitro culturing of cartilage tissue around an inductive coil antenna in the ear, which subsequently enables readout of inductively-coupled signals from cochlea-shaped electrodes. The printed ear exhibits e...
International hydrogen association for hydrogen energy design competition applied topic A: Portable fuel cell

Abstract The Penn State chapter of the International Association for Hydrogen Energy supplied a team of 12 members to enter the 1st IAHE Hydrogen Design Competition. Our design team decided to build a portable fuel cell. The design objective was to limit the cell size to 6 cm × 6 cm × 2 cm, and the goal was to achieve maximum power over 1 h of operation. The type of fuel cell we chose was a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell, using hydrogen and oxygen as the fuel and oxidizer, respectively. The final design converged to a cell stack containing 6 bipolar/end plates, i.e. 5 cells, each measuring 6 cm × 6 cm × 1.975 cm, each with an active area of approximately 25 cm2. The total open circuit voltage was approximately 4.75 V, indicating an average 0.95 V per cell. With an active area of 25 cm2, the maximum power observed during operation was approximately 1.7 W cm−2. The maximum sustained power over 1 h averaged 1.15 W cm−2. The total cost of the project totaled $2245.
Gonadal hormones and conspecific marking in male rats

Abstract Urine deposited by a rat on a conspecific was quantified with injections of sodium fluorescein, a substance that changes the color of urine. The hypothesis examined in experiment 1 was that marking the environment and a conspecific would be similarly androgen-sensitive behaviors during each of three stages—before castration, after castration, and with restorative therapy with testosterone propionate. Findings were that castration reduced both forms of marking, and testosterone therapy to castrated males restored environmental marking in a dose-response fashion. However, the findings for social marking were more complex; for example, a physiological 200-μg testosterone dosage to castrated males was unable to elevate conspecific marking over the rates of marking by castrates without testosterone replacement. In experiment 2 the ontogeny conspecific marking in juvenile males was examined in relation to the pubertal surge of androgens. Results suggested that juvenile male marking of an adult male decreased despite a pubertal increase of androgens. Conclusions were that testicular hormones influenced both forms of marking but were less important in the social setting. Moreover, conspecific marking is not simply an extension of marking the environment.
Percutaneous image-guided radiofrequency thermal ablation for large symptomatic uterine leiomyomata after uterine artery embolization: a feasibility and safety study.

Purpose To evaluate the feasibility and safety of percutaneous image-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) performed with moderate sedation for large symptomatic uterine leiomyomata. Materials and methods Women with large (>5 cm in diameter) symptomatic subserosal and/or intramural uterine leiomyoma were recruited for a prospective study. Patients underwent percutaneous RFA following UAE. RFA using 5 cm treatment diameter expandable needle electrodes connected to a 460 kHz monopolar RF generator, which was performed with a target temperature and power set at 85°C and 150 watts respectively, with a target temperature ablation time of 10 minutes. Patients were assessed for complications in perioperative and post-procedure periods at 24 hours and 1 month, and for symptom improvements at 6 months. Results Thirty-five patients (mean 43.8 years ± 6.2) were recruited. RFA targeting ablation size and temperature was achieved in 97% of the patients (34/35). There were no immediate percutaneous RFA-related complications. There was a self-limiting delayed drainage via the transabdominal RFA access track in one patient (2.9%), a urinary tract infection in one patient (2.9%) and post-embolization/post-ablation symptoms in three patients (8.6%). The mean transformed symptom severity score (SSS) as a part of the uterine fibroid symptom and quality of life (UFS-QOL) assessment shows that the improvements at 1 month were 24.3 points ( P P 3 or 56.5% ( P = 0.0015). Conclusions Percutaneous image-guided RFA as adjunctive to UAE under moderate sedation is feasible, and appears safe without significant morbidity in the treatment of large uterine leiomyomata.
Copper Metallization Layers on Bismuth-Telluride Substrates: Effectiveness of Cr, Pt, and Ta40Si14 N46 Thin Films as Diffusion Barriers

For power-chip cooling devices based on Bi 2 Te 3 thick films, copper is a desirable choice as metallic conductor, because it has high thermal conductivity and low electrical resistivity. On the other hand, Cu shows donor activity in Bi 2 Te 3 , and is known for its high diffusivity in bismuth-telluride and the rapid formation of Cu 2 Te. Therefore, the deployment of a chemically inert, low resistivity diffusion barrier between the Cu metallization layer and the thermoelectric base material is indispensable. In this paper we report on the effectiveness of films of Cr, Pt, and Ta 40 Si 14 N 46 as diffusion barriers at temperatures up to 350°C for Cu overlayers on Bi 2 Te 3 bulk substrates. The films, each about 100 nm thick, were magnetron-deposited on the Bi2 Te3 followed by about 300 nm thick copper overlayers without breaking vacuum. The samples were annealed in vacuum at temperatures of 200 and 350°C for up to 50 h. The performance of the metals and the tantalum-silicon-nitride films as diffusion barriers for Cu inward and Bi and Te toward diffusion was evaluated by 2.0 MeV 4 He backscattering spectrometer and x-ray diffraction. While the Cr and Pt films fail already after hours of annealing at 200°C, the Ta 40 Si 14 N 46 film remains intact at this temperature after vacuum heat treatment for 50 h, and even at 350°C for 1 h as well. Ta-Si-N, and related ternary materials of this type, have already shown to be highly effective barriers in Cu/Si contacts. This study demonstrates that their field in application extends quite beyond Si-based technology.
Labeling of specific glucose carbons formed from succinic acid-1-C14 and -2-C14 in the diabetic dog.

Abstract 1. 1. Samples of urinary glucose obtained from diabetic dogs that had been injected with succinic acid-1-C 14 and succinic acid-2-C 14 were degraded, and the C 14 content of individual glucose carbons was determined. 2. 2. In the experiment with succinic acid-1-C 14 , C 14 activity was found in only the two middle carbons of the urinary glucose. When succinic acid-2-C 14 was injected, 80% of the C 14 found in the glucose molecule resided in carbons 1, 2, 5, and 6. 3. 3. These labeling patterns are discussed in connection with the conversion of palmitic acid to glucose.
Treatment of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor-resistant depression in adolescents: Predictors and moderators of treatment response

Abstract Objective To advance knowledge regarding strategies for treating selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)-resistant depression in adolescents, we conducted a randomized controlled trial evaluating alternative treatment strategies. In primary analyses, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) combined with medication change was associated with higher rates of positive response to short-term (12-week) treatment than medication alone. This study examines predictors and moderators of treatment response, with the goal of informing efforts to match youths to optimal treatment strategies. Method Youths who had not improved during an adequate SSRI trial ( N = 334) were randomized to an alternative SSRI, an alternative SSRI plus CBT, venlafaxine, or venlafaxine plus CBT. Analyses examined predictors and moderators of treatment response. Results Less severe depression, less family conflict, and absence of nonsuicidal self-injurious behavior predicted better treatment response status. Significant moderators of response to CBT + medication (combined) treatment were number of comorbid disorders and abuse history; hopelessness was marginally significant. The CBT/combined treatment superiority over medication alone was more evident among youths who had more comorbid disorders (particularly attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and anxiety disorders), no abuse history, and lower hopelessness. Further analyses revealed a stronger effect of combined CBT + medication treatment among youths who were older and white and had no nonsuicidal self-injurious behavior and longer prestudy pharmacotherapy. Conclusions Combined treatment with CBT and antidepressant medication may be more advantageous for adolescents whose depression is comorbid with other disorders. Given the additional costs of adding CBT to medication, consideration of moderators in clinical decision making can contribute to a more personalized and effective approach to treatment.
Buckling Stability of Adhesively Bonded Composite Conical Shells Under Both Axial Compressive and External Pressure Loads

A mathematical model is developed for buckling stability of an adhesively bonded composite conical shell system consisting of carbon fiber in a polyimide (PI) matrix. The conical shell is modeled by two orthotropic layers bonded together with a PI adhesive. In-plane compressive and external surface pressure loads are applied. The adhesive layer is modeled by mechanical linear normal and shear springs. The Galerkin method is applied to analyze the buckling stability of the structure as an eigenvalue problem to give critical buckling loads and corresponding mode shapes. Parametric studies are performed to show effects of system parameters on buckling stability of the system.© 2006 ASME
General volume sizing strategy for thermal storage system using phase change material for concentrated solar thermal power plant

With an auxiliary large capacity thermal storage using phase change material (PCM), Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) is a promising technology for high efficiency solar energy utilization. In a thermal storage system, a dual-media thermal storage tank is typically adopted in industry for the purpose of reducing the use of the heat transfer fluid (HTF) which is usually expensive. While the sensible heat storage system (SHSS) has been well studied, a dual-media latent heat storage system (LHSS) still needs more attention and study. The volume sizing of the thermal storage tank, considering daily cyclic operations, is of particular significance. In this paper, a general volume sizing strategy for LHSS is proposed, based on an enthalpy-based 1D transient model. One example was presented to demonstrate how to apply this strategy to obtain an actual storage tank volume. With this volume, a LHSS can supply heat to a thermal power plant with the HTF at temperatures above a cutoff point during a desired 6 h of operation. This general volume sizing strategy is believed to be of particular interest for the solar thermal power industry.
Parallel Self-Induction of TNF-α and Apoptosis in the Thymus of Mice after Burn Injury☆

Abstract Background. Burn injury often causes multiple organ failure as well as skin damage. Several studies suggest that TNF-α plays an important role in postinjury immunosuppression by altering lymphoid tissues. We investigated the regulation of TNF-α expression and apoptosis in the spleen and thymus of mice after burn injury. Materials and methods. C57BLKS/J mice were subjected to 18% TBSA full-thickness burn and the spleen and thymus were harvested at various time points (3 h to 29 days). The expression of TNF-α mRNA and protein in tissue extracts was analyzed by RT-PCR and ELISA. Apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry using annexin V staining. Results. Burn injury induced TNF-α mRNA expression in the thymus at Day 1 and it returned to the basal levels at Day 14 and thereafter. Similarly, TNF-α mRNA up-regulation peaked between Day 1 and Day 3 in the spleen. Induction of TNF-α protein peaked at Day 1 in the thymus, whereas, TNF-α protein was unchanged in the spleen after burn injury. There was a twofold increase in apoptotic cells at Day 1 in the thymus, which is consistent with mRNA and protein data. In contrast, burn injury did not change apoptotic events in the spleen. Conclusions. The parallel induction of TNF-α mRNA, TNF-α protein, and apoptosis suggests that TNF-α may contribute to immunosuppression after burn injury by inducing apoptosis in the thymus.
Modeling of global change phenomena with GIS using the global change data base. II: Prototype synthesis of the AVHRR-based vegetation index from terrestrial data

Abstract Part I of this article reviewed an approach to modeling in scientific geographic information systems (GIS) by digitally synthesizing environmental parameters or phenomena as functions of other data. This interactive approach to global environmental modeling complements the approach of dynamic process models while enabling the scientist to rigorously assess the character of data used as boundary conditions in other models on widely available personal computers and workstations. Part II presents a case history using existing GISs to recreate the AVHRR-based vegetation index using data derived from in situ study on the Earth's surface. The example explores the relationship between the global vegetation index and ecosystems, soils, and precipitation, and defects in our present ability to describe these features. The degree of success of the model shows that GIS and the global change data base can be effective modeling tools, especially when functions are added to enhance the modeling capabilities of GIS. One function, INDEX, developed for this case history, is a simple utility that models a single data set as a function of another data set. A second function THEMCOIN, takes two input categorical data sets, such as vegetation and soils maps, and computes the mean and standard deviation of a third input data set of numerical values, such as elevation, precipitation, or vegetation index computed from AVHRR data. THEMCOIN outputs a table of these empirical relationships. It also optionally models the numerical data set based on correlations with the categorical data sets. Both of these functions facilitate environmental modeling in GIS. The models begin to approximate vegetation index as a function of ecosystem, precipitation, and soils. Statistical output from the models extends our understanding of relationships between environmental parameters.
Full-wave modeling of transionospheric propagation of VLF waves

[1] The full-wave method (FWM) of N. G. Lehtinen and U. S. Inan (2008) is used to model trans-ionospheric propagation of VLF electromagnetic waves from ground-based transmitters up to satellite altitudes. Direct comparison with satellite observations indicates that the VLF wave intensities measured at satellite altitudes are substantially smaller than predicted. The apparent reduction in amplitude is attributed to the presence of irregularities in the ionosphere, which the waves encounter during their traversal of the lower ionosphere. Linear mode scattering from the irregularities convert the whistler waves into quasi-electrostatic whistler mode (QEWM) waves with wave normal angles near the resonance cone. Recent enhancements to the FWM are also described, which allow the minimization of an aliasing error encountered in taking the inverse Fourier transform.
FFTSVD: A Fast Multiscale Boundary-Element Method Solver Suitable for Bio-MEMS and Biomolecule Simulation

This paper presents a fast boundary-element method (BEM) algorithm that is well suited for solving electrostatics problems that arise in traditional and bio-microelectromechanical systems (bio-MEMS) design. The algorithm, FFTSVD, is Green's-function-independent for low-frequency kernels and efficient for inhomogeneous problems. FFTSVD is a multiscale algorithm that decomposes the problem domain using an octree and uses sampling to calculate low-rank approximations to dominant source distributions and responses. Long-range interactions at each length scale are computed using the FFT. Computational results illustrate that the FFTSVD algorithm performs better than precorrected-FFT (pFFT)-style algorithms or the multipole-style algorithms in FastCap.
Automating Design of Voltage Interpolation to Address Process Variations

Post-fabrication tuning provides a promising design approach to mitigate the performance and power overheads of process variation in advanced fabrication technologies. This paper explores design considerations and VLSI-CAD support for a recently proposed post-fabrication tuning knob called voltage interpolation. Successful implementation of this technique requires examination of the design tradeoffs between circuit tuning range and static power overheads within the synthesis flow of the design process, in addition to the implications of place and route. Results from the exploration of the scheme for a 64-core chip-multiprocessor machine using industrial-grade design blocks show that the scheme can be used to mitigate overhead arising from random and correlated within-die process variations. A design using voltage interpolation can match the nominal delay target with a 16% power cost, or for the same power budget, incur only a 13% delay overhead after variations.
Variation in moth occurrence and implications for foraging habitat of Ozark big-eared bats

We investigated patterns of moth occurrence among habitats in two different landscapes surrounding roosts of the endangered Ozark big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii ingens) from May to August 2005, and compared these data with published results on the diet of this subspecies. Landscapes were situated in the Ozark Mountains, USA, and consisted of a fragmented, agricultural landscape and a contiguous national forest. We captured 8720 moths constituting � 314 species and 22 families. Pastures demonstrated a lower abundance and richness of moths than other habitats in the fragmented landscape ( p < 0.05). Neither abundance nor richness of moths varied by habitat in the forested landscape, but we did observe variation among roost locations ( p < 0.05). Abundant families of moths (n � 100 specimens captured) did vary in abundance among habitats in both landscapes ( p < 0.05), with poletimber stands, riparian forest and upland forest selected, and pasture, forest edge, sawtimber and sapling stands avoided by at least one family of moths. Density and richness of woody plant species were correlated with the occurrence of moths at sampling sites. We recommend maintaining habitat heterogeneity around roosts of the Ozark big-eared bat to encourage an abundance and richness of moth prey, and suggest that forested riparian corridors are important habitat elements for Ozark big-eared bats foraging in fragmented landscapes.
Alcohol and Aggression: A Test of the Attention-Allocation Model

This article presents the first systematic test of the attention-allocation model for alcohol-related aggression. According to this model, alcohol has a “myopic” effect on attentional capacity that presumably facilitates aggression by focusing attention on more salient provocative, rather than less salient inhibitory, cues in hostile situations. Aggression was assessed using a laboratory task in which mild electric shocks were received from, and administered to, a fictitious opponent. Study 1 demonstrated that a moderate-load cognitive distractor suppressed aggression in intoxicated subjects (to levels even lower than those exhibited by a placebo control group). Study 2 assessed how varying the magnitude of a distracting cognitive load affected aggression in the alcohol and placebo conditions. Results indicated that the moderate-load distraction used in Study 1 (i.e., holding four elements in sequential order in working memory) suppressed aggression best. Cognitive loads of larger and smaller magnitudes w...
Regulatory B cells in anti-tumor immunity

Advances in understanding of the immune microenvironment have highlighted the role of immunosuppressive T cell, myeloid, dendritic and monocytic sub-populations in inhibition of the anti-tumor immune response. The role of B cells in modulating the immune response to solid tumors as well as lymphoid malignancies is less well understood. Murine models of autoimmune disease have defined B regulatory cell (Breg) subsets with immune suppressive activity, including B cell subsets that express IL-10, and transforming growth factor-β, which can facilitate T regulatory cell recruitment and expansion. Multiple murine tumor models point to the existence of similar immune suppressive B cell sub-populations that can migrate into tumor deposits and acquire an immune suppressive phenotype, which then leads to attenuation of the local anti-tumor immune response. Other murine models of viral or chemically induced skin carcinogenesis have identified a pivotal role for B cells in promoting inflammation and carcinogenesis. While many human solid tumors demonstrate significant B cell infiltration and/or tertiary lymphoid structure formation, the functional properties of tumor-infiltrating B cells and their effects on immunity are poorly understood. Recent successes in early Phase I/II trials using anti-checkpoint inhibitor antibodies such as nivolumab or pidilizumab directed against PD-1 in the setting of Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas validate the therapeutic utility of reversing B cell-mediated immune suppression. Further studies to define Breg subsets, and mechanisms of suppression, may provide new avenues for modulation of the immune response and meaningful therapeutic intervention in both lymphoid and solid tumors.
Influence of Potential, Chlorides, pH, and Precharging Time on Embrittlement of Cathodically Polarized Prestressing Steel

Abstract Corrosion of prestressing steel in concrete has become a major technological problem in highways, buildings, and pipeline structures. While cathodic protection is recognized as an appropriate technique to mitigate corrosion of reinforcing steel in concrete, the possibility of environmental cracking (hydrogen embrittlement) in the case of prestressing tendon has limited application to this usage. To establish the appropriateness of cathodic protection for prestressing steel, constant extension rate testing was pertormed on smooth and notched wire specimens in deaerated Ca(OH)2 solutions as a function of potential, [Cl−], pH, and precharging time. Results indicated potential is the most important of these variables, and a threshold value of −0.90 VSCE was identified below which embrittlement is enhanced. Notched specimens, which may best simulate the geometry of corroded tendon, particularly were susceptible when compared to smooth tendon. Failure of some tendons in this condition could occur upon ...
A Short-Term and Long-Term Learning Approach for Content-Based Image Retrieval

This paper proposes a short-term and long-term learning approach for content-based image retrieval. The proposed system integrates the user's positive and negative feedback from all iterations to construct a semantic space to remember the user's intent in terms of the high-level hidden semantic features. The short-term learning further refines the query by updating its associated weight vector using both positive and negative examples together with the long-term-learning-based semantic space. The similarity score is computed as the dot product between the query weight vector and the high-level features of each image stored in the semantic space. Our proposed retrieval approach demonstrates a promising retrieval performance for an image database of 6000 general-purpose images from COREL, as compared with the conventional retrieval systems.