cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficient generation and rapid isolation via stoplight recombination of Herpes simplex viruses expressing model antigenic and immunological epitopes.

Abstract Generation and isolation of recombinant herpesviruses by traditional homologous recombination methods can be a tedious, time-consuming process. Therefore, a novel stoplight recombination selection method was developed that facilitated rapid identification and purification of recombinant viruses expressing fusions of immunological epitopes with EGFP. This “traffic-light” approach provided a visual indication of the presence and purity of recombinant HSV-1 isolates by producing three identifying signals: (1) red fluorescence indicates non-recombinant viruses that should be avoided; (2) yellow fluorescence indicates cells co-infected with non-recombinant and recombinant viruses that are chosen with caution; (3) green fluorescence indicates pure recombinant isolates and to proceed with preparation of viral stocks. Adaptability of this system was demonstrated by creating three recombinant viruses that expressed model immunological epitopes. Diagnostic PCR established that the fluorescent stoplight indicators were effective at differentiating between the presence of background virus contamination and pure recombinant viruses specifying immunological epitopes. This enabled isolation of pure recombinant viral stocks that exhibited wildtype-like viral replication and cell-to-cell spread following three rounds of plaque purification. Expression of specific immunological epitopes was confirmed by western analysis, and the utility of these viruses for examining host immune responses to HSV-1 was determined by a functional T cell assay.
GIS-Based Decision Support System for Dam Break Flood Management under Uncertainty with Two-Dimensional Numerical Simulations

AbstractA geographical information system (GIS)-based decision support system has been developed for dam-break flood management based on realistic two-dimensional flood simulations. With the ability of interacting with and using classified remote sensing (RS) image layers and other GIS feature layers like zoning layer, survey database, and census block boundaries, it can be used for flood damage calculations and loss-of-life estimations. It also provides a user-friendly interface that allows construction of user-defined criteria, such as stage-damage curves, running computations, and visualization of the results. The Monte Carlo Simulation method is used to take into account uncertainties in various variables and parameters, and event tree analysis is used to estimate the population dynamics. The analysis of a dam-break flood management strategy for Sinclair Dam in Milledgeville, Georgia is chosen as a case study to demonstrate the capabilities of the decision support system. The test results validated by...
Anisotropic mechanical properties of uniaxially oriented electrically conducting poly(p-phenylene vinylene)

The mechanical properties of uniaxially oriented poly(p-phenylene vinylene) film prepared by simultaneous thermal elimination and uniaxial extension of the poly(sulphonium salt) precursor have been measured both in the machine and transverse directions. The mechanical properties are anisotropic and dependent upon the degree of molecular orientation. Young's modulus varies between 2.3 and 37 GPa as a function of draw ratio in the machine direction and between 2.3 and 0.5 GPa in the transverse direction. The effect of chemical doping on mechanical properties has also been determined. A comparison between mechanical and electrical anisotropy in oriented samples has been made.
THE EFFECT OF AUDIT DOCUMENTATION FORMAT ON DATA COLLECTION.

Abstract This study considered the impact of three different methods of documenting internal accounting control systems (internal control questionnaire, flowchart, and narrative memorandum) upon the quantity and type of data collected during the auditor's preliminary review of internal control. The effect of experience upon data collection was also considered. Fifty-five auditors participated in a laboratory experiment in which they collected data about a client's control system, and recorded it in one of the three formats. Results indicated that subjects using an internal control questionnaire collected far more data than did other subjects. When using a questionnaire or flowchart, seniors collected more data than less experienced auditors. The type of data collected was shown to be associated strongly with documentation format but not with experience. Evidence that selective perception was induced by documentation format was particularly strong for the questionnaire subjects.
Mapping of the preferred direction in the motor cortex.

Directional tuning is a basic functional property of cell activity in the motor cortex. Previous work has indicated that cells with similar preferred directions are organized in columns perpendicular to the cortical surface. Here we show that these columns are organized in an orderly fashion in the tangential dimension on the cortical surface. Based on a large number of microelectrode penetrations and systematic exploration of the proximal arm area of the motor cortex while monkeys made free reaching 3D movements, it was estimated that (i) directional minicolumns are ≈30 μm in width, (ii) minicolumns with similar preferred directions tend to occur in doublets or triplets, and (iii) such minicolumns tend to repeat every ≈240 μm (estimated width of a column), with intermediate preferred directions represented in a gradient. These findings provide evidence for an orderly mapping of the preferred direction in the motor cortex.
Modeling Traffic Control Agency Decision Behavior for Multimodal Manual Signal Control Under Event Occurrences

Traffic control agencies (TCAs), including police officers, firefighters, or other traffic law enforcement officers, can override automatic traffic signal control and manually control the traffic at an intersection. TCA-based traffic signal control is crucial to mitigate nonrecurrent traffic congestion caused by planned and unplanned events. Understanding and predicting TCA behaviors is significant to optimize event traffic management and operations. In this paper, we propose a pressure-based human behavior model to mimic TCA's decision-making behavior. The model calculates TCA's pressure based on two attributes: vehicle and pedestrian queue dynamics and the red time duration for each phase. When TCA's pressure on each phase meet certain criteria and the minimal green is satisfied, TCA will terminate the current phase and switch to another phase. In order to study TCA behavior systematically, we first build a manual signal control simulator based on a microscopic traffic simulation tool. Supported by the manual control simulator, a series of human subject experiments have been conducted with real-world TCAs. Experiment data are divided into training data and test data. The proposed behavior model is then calibrated by training data, and the model is validated by both offline segment-based phase and duration prediction and online VISSIM-based simulation. Further, we test the model with videotaped TCA behavior data at a real-world intersection. Both validation results support the effectiveness of proposed behavior model.
Hard segment connectivity in low molecular weight model ‘trisegment’ polyurethanes based on monols

Abstract Low molecular weight model trisegmented polyurethanes based on monofunctional polyols, or ‘monols’, with water-extended toluene diisocyanate (TDI) based hard segments (HS) are investigated. The formulations of the materials generated are similar to those of flexible polyurethane foams with the exceptions that the conventional polyol is substituted by an oligomeric monofunctional polyether of ca. 1000 g/mol molecular weight; and no surfactant is utilized. Plaques formed from these model systems are shown to be solid materials at ambient even at their relatively low molecular weights of 3000 g/mol and less. SAXS, DSC, and AFM are utilized to investigate the microphase separated morphologies of the samples generated. WAXS results show that the local packing of the HS is of a similar nature as that in actual flexible polyurethane foams. AFM phase images, for the first time, reveal the ability of the HS to self-assemble through bidentate hydrogen bonding and form lath-like percolated structures, resulting in solid plaques, even though the overall volume of the system is well dominated by the two terminal liquid-like polyether segments.
Factors influencing detection of eDNA from a stream-dwelling amphibian

Environmental DNA (eDNA) methods for detecting and estimating abundance of aquatic species are emerging rapidly, but little is known about how processes such as secretion rate, environmental degradation, and time since colonization or extirpation from a given site affect eDNA measurements. Using stream-dwelling salamanders and quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis, we conducted three experiments to assess eDNA: (i) production rate; (ii) persistence time under different temperature and light conditions; and (iii) detectability and concentration through time following experimental introduction and removal of salamanders into previously unoccupied streams. We found that 44-50 g individuals held in aquaria produced 77 ng eDNA/h for 2 h, after which production either slowed considerably or began to equilibrate with degradation. eDNA in both full-sun and shaded treatments degraded exponentially to <1% of the original concentration after 3 days. eDNA was no longer detectable in full-sun samples after 8 days, whereas eDNA was detected in 20% of shaded samples after 11 days and 100% of refrigerated control samples after 18 days. When translocated into unoccupied streams, salamanders were detectable after 6 h, but only when densities were relatively high (0.2481 individuals/m(2) ) and when samples were collected within 5 m of the animals. Concentrations of eDNA detected were very low and increased steadily from 6-24 h after introduction, reaching 0.0022 ng/L. Within 1 h of removing salamanders from the stream, eDNA was no longer detectable. These results suggest that eDNA detectability and concentration depend on production rates of individuals, environmental conditions, density of animals, and their residence time.
Shape Anchors for Data-Driven Multi-view Reconstruction

We present a data-driven method for building dense 3D reconstructions using a combination of recognition and multi-view cues. Our approach is based on the idea that there are image patches that are so distinctive that we can accurately estimate their latent 3D shapes solely using recognition. We call these patches shape anchors, and we use them as the basis of a multi-view reconstruction system that transfers dense, complex geometry between scenes. We "anchor" our 3D interpretation from these patches, using them to predict geometry for parts of the scene that are relatively ambiguous. The resulting algorithm produces dense reconstructions from stereo point clouds that are sparse and noisy, and we demonstrate it on a challenging dataset of real-world, indoor scenes.
Highly Active Multidentate Alkyne Metathesis Catalysts: Ligand‐Activity Relationship and Their Applications in Efficient Synthesis of Porphyrin‐Based Aryleneethynylene Polymers

A series of tris(arylmethyl)ammonium-coordinated molybdenum(VI) propylidyne catalysts was synthesized. Such N-quarternized multidentate catalysts showed high robustness, strong resistance to small alkyne polymerization and significantly enhanced catalytic activity compared to their corresponding tris(arylmethyl)amine-based analogues. The high activity of these new catalysts also enabled the efficient synthesis of ethynylene-bridged porphyrin-based arylene ethynylene polymers via alkyne metathesis, which represents a highly efficient, defect-free, viable approach for the synthesis of this class of intriguing polymers.
Surgical treatment of portal hypertension

The surgical treatment of portal hypertension has laxed and waned over the past century. Decompressive shunts for variceal bleeding hit their peak in the 1970s, but dissatisfaction with encephalopathy and liver failure led to further developments with selective shunts and devascularization procedures in the 1970s and early 1980s. Liver transplant is the major operative intervention currently in use and of advantage to patients with portal hypertension. The role of the surgeon is as part of the team involved in the full evaluation of patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension with its complications. The current repertoire of surgical options includes decompressive shunts, either total, partial or selective, devascularization procedures and liver transplantation. These options must be fitted into the overall management schema of pharmacologic and endoscopic therapy as the first-line approaches to managing these patients.
The X-Ray-Faint Early-Type Galaxy NGC 4697

We analyze archival ROSAT HRI, ROSAT PSPC, and ASCA data of the X-ray-faint early-type galaxy NGC 4697. The joint ROSAT PSPC+ASCA spectrum is fitted by a two-component thermal model, a MEKAL model with kTMEKAL = 0.26 keV with low metallicity and a bremsstrahlung model with kTBREM = 5.2 keV. A similar model was found to fit the spectra of another faint early-type galaxy (NGC 4382) and the bulge of M31. We interpret this soft emission as a combination of emission from a soft component of low-mass X-ray binaries (LMXBs) and from a low-temperature interstellar medium, although the relative contributions of the two components could not be determined. Twelve point sources were identified within 4' of NGC 4697, of which 11 are most likely LMXBs associated with the galaxy. The soft X-ray colors of four of the LMXBs in NGC 4697 support the claim that LMXBs possess a soft spectral component. Finally, we present a simulation of what we believe the Chandra data of NGC 4697 will look like.
Profiling Temperature, Pressure, and Aerosol Properties Using a High Spectral Resolution Lidar Employing Atomic Blocking Filters

Abstract A two-channel ground-based high spectra resolution Rayleigh-Mie lidar (553.7 nm) and its operation is described. Inversion of data collected with this unique lidar system yields vertical profiles of atmospheric parameters including temperature, potential temperature, pressure and density, as well as aerosol parameters including backscatter ratio, extinction ratio, aerosol volume extinction cross section, and backscatter phase function. The results of the lidar temperature profiles (within 10 K) are compared with those measured by a nearby balloonsonde. Although present accuracies are not acceptable for routine measurements, the concept has been demonstrated. Use of a more stable filter will significantly improve the accuracy of the temperature measurements. This technique makes accessible a fairly complete set of simultaneous measurements of thermodynamic and aerosol properties of the atmosphere.
Do businesses have moral obligations beyond what the law requires

The classic joke about business ethics is that the very concept "business ethics" is a contradiction in terms. By its nature, business is supposed to be unscrupulous and driven by the need for success, so where is there room for ethics? The basis of this problem involves a narrowly defined area of possible actions which are legal, but which would also be considered immoral by many people. For example, current laws permit a spectrum of exaggerated claims in advertising, yet critics argue that many of these advertising claims would at the same time count as lying. Do businesses need to carry the torch of morality beyond the constraints contained in the law? The tendency in current discussions of business ethics is to maintain that businesses are indeed under obligation to be moral beyond what the law requires. Contrary to this view, it will be argued here that the typical business is under no such obligation. I begin by critcizing the view that morality in business can be derived from the profit moti vation. The problem with this view is that it either confines morality to what at that time will yield a profit, or it wrongly assumes that con sumers will insist on moral business practices. Next, I attack the position that there are specific business-related moral obligations beyond what the law requires. This position fails because such supra-legal obligations appear optional to the business person, and it is unreasonable to expect businesses to perform duties which appear
Ultrashort electromagnetic waves: II — Transmission lines at Ultrahigh frequencies

This article is the second in a series of six on ultrashort electromagnetic waves, all presented originally before the basic science group of the AIEE New York Section as a symposium of six lectures surveying ultrahigh-frequency theory. The first article, “Electromagnetic Theory,” by Doctor Ernst Weber, appeared in the March issue. This second article presents simplifications and approximations of the usual engineering solutions for the transmission line that are valid only for very high frequencies. The resulting expressions are of great practical advantage in designing transmission-line circuit elements.
Intelligence Analysis Using Titan

The open source Titan informatics toolkit project, which extends the visualization toolkit (VTK) to include information visualization capabilities, is being developed by Sandia National Laboratories in collaboration with Kitware. The VAST Contest provided us with an opportunity to explore various ideas for constructing an analysis tool, while allowing us to exercise our architecture in the solution of a complex problem. As amateur analysts, we found the experience both enlightening and fun.
Effect of physical training on insulin action in obesity.

We evaluated insulin secretion and insulin action with the hyperglycemic (125 mg/dl above basal) and euglycemic insulin (40 mU · m 2 · min −1 ) clamps in seven moderately obese subjects before and after a 6-wk exercise training program. Thirty-nine normalweight, age-matched subjects served as controls. Both fasting plasma insulin concentration and glucosestimulated (hyperglycemic clamp) insulin secretion were significantly ( P P P P P P P
Vapor condensation onto a turbulent liquid—I. The steady condensation rate as a function of liquid-side turbulence☆

Abstract Data are presented for the rate of vapor condensation onto a turbulent liquid, the turbulence being isotropic in the horizontal plane and bulk-flow free, and the interface being shear-free and relatively free of waves. A correlation is proposed for the rate coefficient in terms of the liquid-side turbulence intensity, turbulence macroscale and subcooling.
MYC Inactivation Elicits Oncogene Addiction through Both Tumor Cell–Intrinsic and Host-Dependent Mechanisms

Tumorigenesis is generally caused by genetic changes that activate oncogenes or inactivate tumor suppressor genes. The targeted inactivation of oncogenes can be associated with tumor regression through the phenomenon of oncogene addiction. One of the most common oncogenic events in human cancer is the activation of the MYC oncogene. The inactivation of MYC may be a general and effective therapy for human cancer. Indeed, it has been experimentally shown that the inactivation of MYC can result in dramatic and sustained tumor regression in lymphoma, leukemia, osteosarcoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, squamous carcinoma, and pancreatic carcinoma through a multitude of mechanisms, including proliferative arrest, terminal differentiation, cellular senescence, induction of apoptosis, and the shutdown of angiogenesis. Cell-autonomous and cell-dependent mechanisms have both been implicated, and recent results suggest a critical role for autocrine factors, including thrombospondin-1 and TGF-β. Hence, targeting the inactivation of MYC appears to elicit oncogene addiction and, thereby, tumor regression through both tumor cell-intrinsic and host-dependent mechanisms.
The PI/PTB domain: A new protein interaction domain involved in growth factor receptor signaling

In summary, a new domain called the PI/PTB domain has been identified in the Shc adapter protein. This motif binds the NPXpY motif that is found in a large number of signal transduction molecules. The presence in Shc of both a PI/PTB domain and an SH2 domain presumably gives Shc the ability to interact with a large number of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins. The structure of the PI/PTB domain has been solved and is very similar to the PH domain. Highly related in binding specificity is the PTB domain of IRS-1 and IRS-2, which also binds an NPXpY motif. Several other PI domains have been identified that may also have binding specificity for the NPXY motif. The terminology used at present to define these domains is unclear. The original terms PI and PTB domain stood for phosphotyrosine interaction and phosphotyrosine binding domain, respectively. The name may be inappropriate for some members of this family in which phosphotyrosine may not be essential for binding. Furthermore, these domains are structurally related to the previously named PH domains. At present we feel the use of the name PTB domain should be reserved for Shc and IRS-1/IRS-2, where phosphotyrosine binding has been demonstrated. We place the other proteins we have identified in the PI domain family, with PI now representing the protein interaction rather than the phosphotyrosine interaction domain. The role of several of the PI domains in other proteins is beginning to be studied. It seems clear that our understanding of these domains and their function in cell biology will rapidly expand over the next several years.
Integral equation theory of random copolymer melts

An integral equation theory is developed for the structure and thermodynamics of melts of random copolymers. The molecules are modeled as flexible chains with a random sequence of two types of site...
The Effect of State Intervention in the Nonprofit Sector: The Case of the New Deal

This article raises the question of how the influx of federal money during the New Deal affected nonprofit organizations (NPOs) operating in the social welfare sector. Using data on the number of NPOs operating in six service categories in New York City, we demonstrate three distinct trends—some types of organizations fared very poorly, other types remained relatively stable, and a third set actually experienced significant growth in numbers. We hypothesize that two factors explain these variations—the extent to which NPOs were perceived to be doing work that was explicitly related to the immediate crisis appears to have influenced their success in sustaining charitable support. More importantly, the extent to which a class of organizations was excluded from participating infederal relief programs appears to have significantly influenced the overall success and failure rates. Those organizations that were included as partners in the federal relief efforts experienced significant growth.
Diagnosis and Management of Acute Coronary Syndrome: An Evidence-Based Update

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) describes the range of myocardial ischemic states that includes unstable angina, non-ST elevated myocardial infarction (MI), or ST-elevated MI. ACS is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality and places a large financial burden on the health care system. The diagnosis of ACS begins with a thorough clinical assessment of a patient9s presenting symptoms, electrocardiogram, and cardiac troponin levels as well as a review of past medical history. Early risk stratification can assist clinicians in determining whether an early invasive management strategy or an initial conservative strategy should be pursued and can help determine appropriate pharmacologic therapies. Key components in the management of ACS include coronary revascularization when indicated; prompt initiation of dual antiplatelet therapy and anticoagulation; and consideration of adjuvant agents including β blockers, inhibitors of the renin angiotensin system, and HmG–coenzyme A reductase inhibitors. It is essential for clinicians to take an individualized approach to treatment and consider long-term safety and efficacy when managing patients with a history of ACS after hospital discharge.
The fate of fluid inclusions during high‐temperature experimental deformation of olivine aggregates

Torsion experiments on initially wet and dry olivine aggregates at equivalent deformation conditions investigated the fate of fluid inclusions (FIs) during high-temperature deformation. Wet samples were produced by adding water to San Carlos olivine powders before hot pressing; those hot pressed without water are considered dry. After hot pressing, wet and dry aggregates have comparable grain sizes, but wet aggregates have more abundant primary FIs. Talc jackets were fitted around some wet and dry samples prior to deformation to hydrate samples during deformation via talc dehydration at elevated temperature, whereas other samples were deformed without talc. At similar strain rates (~1.0 × 10−4 s−1), the peak shear stress for the dry sample (no talc) was 190–220 MPa, whereas all other samples reached 180 MPa; the strengths of wet (± talc) and dry (+ talc) specimens appear similar. Deformed samples reveal abundant FIs, reduced grain size, shape preferred orientation of olivine, and a pervasive low-angle fabric (C′) to the shear plane defined by aligned FIs. Samples deformed with talc have FI-rich and FI-depleted domains; where FIs are abundant, the C′ fabric is better developed and grain size is smaller. Electron backscatter diffraction pole figures suggest that olivine deformed in the dislocation creep regime via the (010)[100] slip system. Results of these experiments suggest that FIs are redistributed during dislocation creep, leading to the development of grain-scale, high-diffusivity pathways.
Imaging of Pediatric Pancreatic Neoplasms With Radiologic- Histopathologic Correlation

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to describe the imaging features of pediatric pancreatic tumors with pathologic correlation. Epithelial and nonepithelial lesions are described. Pancreatic imaging protocols, clinical presentation, and management are also detailed. CONCLUSION. Pancreatic neoplasms are rare in children and vary widely between benign and malignant causes and between cystic and solid lesions. Epithelial tumors are most common and include solid pseudopapillary tumor, pancreatoblastoma, islet cell neoplasms, and cystic lesions.
Colorwave: a MAC for RFID reader networks

We present Colorwave, a medium access control (MAC) protocol designed for wireless sensor networks such as radio frequency identification (RFID) reader networks. A network of readers will collaborate for a common application such as item-level monitoring in supply chain management. Readers may be deployed in an ad hoc manner, and readers must not interfere with one another's reader-to-tag communication. Colorwave capitalized on the localized nature of reader-to-tag communications to provide an on-line, distributed, and localized MAC protocol that minimized reader-to-reader interference.
A pipelined architecture for on-line low-level vision

The concept of online processing is presented as an effective approach to overcome the data distribution overhead in parallel real-time implementation of low-level vision. Online processing refers to pipelining each input item with the pipeline rate equal to the input arrival rate. Online algorithms are presented for four benchmark low level tasks, namely two-dimensional convolution, two-dimensional rank value filtering, connected component labeling, and Hough transform. A two-stage pipelined module that allows online implementations is described. This module is to function as a coprocessor to nodes in B-HIVE, a loosely coupled multiprocessor for integrated vision. >
Measures of Insulin Resistance Add Incremental Value to the Clinical Diagnosis of Metabolic Syndrome in Association With Coronary Atherosclerosis

Background— Whether measures of insulin resistance provide incremental information regarding atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease beyond current National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Adult Treatment Panel III metabolic syndrome (MetSyn) criteria or inflammatory markers is uncertain. Methods and Results— We examined the association of insulin resistance and MetSyn with coronary artery calcification (CAC) in 840 asymptomatic nondiabetic subjects. Both NCEP and World Health Organization–defined MetSyn were associated (ordinal regression odds ratio [OR] and 95% confidence intervals for NCEP-defined MetSyn) with CAC after controlling for age, non-MetSyn risk factors, and plasma CRP levels (OR, 1.93 [1.43 to 2.60], P<0.001) and after further controlling for homeostasis model assessment index (HOMA) (OR, 1.56 [1.14 to 2.15], P=0.006). Conversely, HOMA was significantly associated with CAC after adjusting for age, non-MetSyn risk factors, and CRP levels (OR, 1.62 [1.31 to 2.01], P<0.001) and after furth...
Harnessing Web-Based Application Similarities to Aid in Regression Testing

Web-based applications are growing in complexity and criticality, increasing the need for their precise validation. Regression testing is an established approach for providing information about the quality of an application in the face of recurring updates that dominate the web. We present techniques to address a key challenge of the automated regression testing of web-based applications. Innocuous program evolutions often appear to fail tests and must be manually inspected. We rely on inherent similarities between independent web-based applications to provide fully automated solutions for reducing the number of false positives associated with regression testing such applications, simultaneously focusing on returning all true positives. Our approach predicts which test cases merit human inspection by applying a model derived from regression testing other programs. We are 2.5 to 50 times as accurate as current industrial practice, but require no user annotations.
A Comparison of Grief as Related to Miscarriage and Termination for Fetal Abnormality

This study proposed that maternal bereavement in women who experienced miscarriage and women who terminated for fetal abnormality would differ related to the existence of a grief reaction, and to identify the factors that differentiated the two groups. There were no significant grief differences between the miscarriage group and termination group. The groups were then combined to analyze within group factors. Six fixed variables were found to be related to vulnerability for a grief reaction. Factors included: time since the most recent loss; intervention of counseling; employment outside the home; feeling responsible for the perinatal loss; age of the mother as related to guilt; and gestational length of pregnancy.
Structure and Properties at the Ferroelectric/Electrode Interface between Lead Zirconate Titanate and Copper

In advanced actuator systems, ferroelectric ceramics are usually made into multilayered stacks to obtain optimum performance. This is done by interlacing noble metals (such as Pt/Pd) with ceramic green sheet and cofiring. The present study proposes an alternative, more economic electrode. Copper has been successfully diffusion bonded to several PZT-based ferroelectric ceramics in a multilayer configuration. The microstructure and the relevant physical properties of the interfaces have been investigated. This has been achieved by using microscopy, as well as by mechanical and electrical characterization. These studies indicate that no reaction product forms at the interface and, furthermore, that the interface exhibits good cohesion.
Hypoxia-dependent anti-inflammatory pathways in protection of cancerous tissues.

The evolutionarily selected tissue-protecting mechanisms are likely to be triggered by an event of universal significance for all surrounding cells. Such an event could be damage to blood vessels, which would result in local tissue hypoxia. It is now recognized that tissue hypoxia can initiate the tissue-protecting mechanism mediated by at least two different biochemical pathways. The central message of this review is that tumor cells are protected from immune damage in hypoxic and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments due to the inactivation of anti-tumor T cells by the combined action of these two hypoxia-driven mechanisms. Firstly, tumor hypoxia-produced extracellular adenosine inhibits anti-tumor T cells via their Gs-protein-coupled and cAMP-elevating A2A and A2B adenosine receptors (A2AR/A2BR). Levels of extracellular adenosine are increased in tumor microenvironments due to the changes in activities of enzymes involved in adenosine metabolism. Secondly, TCR-activated and/or tumor hypoxia-exposed anti-tumor T cells may be inhibited in tumor microenvironments by Hypoxia-inducible Factor 1α (HIF-1α) Hence, HIF-1α activity in T cells may contribute to the tumor-protecting immunosuppressive effects of tumor hypoxia. Here, we summarize the data that support the view that protection of hypoxic cancerous tissues from anti-tumor T cells is mediated by the same mechanism that protects normal tissues from the excessive collateral damage by overactive immune cells during acute inflammation.
A survey on recent advances in optical communications

Recent advances in optical communications not only increase the capacities of communication system but also improve the system dynamicity and survivability. Various new technologies are invented to increase the bandwidth of individual wavelength channels and the number of wavelengths transmitted per fiber. Multiple access technologies have also been developed to support various emerging applications, including real-time, on-demand and high data-rate applications, in a flexible, cost effective and energy efficient manner. In this paper, we overview recent research in optical communications and focus on the topics of modulation, switching, add-drop multiplexer, coding schemes, detection schemes, orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing, system analysis, cross-layer design, control and management, free space optics, and optics in data center networks. The primary purpose of this paper is to refresh the knowledge and broaden the understanding of advances in optical communications, and to encourage further research in this area and the deployment of new technologies in production networks.
Molecular mechanism of suppression of circadian rhythms by a critical stimulus

Circadian singularity behavior (also called suppression of circadian rhythms) is a phenomenon characterized by the abolishment of circadian rhythmicities by a critical stimulus. Here we demonstrate that both temperature step up and light pulse, stimuli that activate the expression of the Neurospora circadian clock gene frequency (frq), can trigger singularity behavior in this organism. The arrhythmicity is transient and is followed by the resumption of rhythm in randomly distributed phases. In addition, we show that induction of FRQ expression alone can trigger singularity behavior, indicating that FRQ is a state variable of the Neurospora circadian oscillator. Furthermore, mutations of frq lead to changes in the amplitude of FRQ oscillation, which determines the sensitivity of the clock to phase-resetting cues. Our results further suggest that the singularity behavior is due to the loss of rhythm in all cells. Together, these data suggest that the singularity behavior is due to a circadian negative feedback loop driven to a steady state after the critical treatment. After the initial arrhythmicity, cell populations are then desynchronized.
Assessing the Transportation Needs of Low-Mobility Individuals: Case Study of a Small Urban Community in Utah

Older adults, low-income individuals, and individuals with disabilities are generally considered "low-mobility" individuals, having less access to transportation options and often marginalized in the social environment of the community. This study assessed the transportation needs of low-mobility individuals using three dimensions: (1) travel characteristics, (2) social strength in terms of trans- portation assistance received from their social networks, and (3) accessibility to public transportation. A mixed survey method combining an in-person interview at the collaborating organizations and a mail-back survey were used. Results showed that older adults remain mobile and make more frequent short trips. The results also showed a much higher reliance on private vehicles among older adults and individuals with low income, whereas a much higher reliance on public transportation and much lower reliance on private transportation was found among individuals with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities were still active, as almost half of them travel to work frequently. However, the number of nonwork trips made by individuals with disabilities was significantly low. These findings indicated a positive relationship between transportation mode choices and social dependence with family and friends. Individuals with stronger family social ties were more likely to receive adequate help meeting their transportation needs. The accessibility analysis revealed that low-mobility individuals in Cache County, Utah, have difficulties accessing transit due to the long walking distances from their residences. These findings may be used to guide policy for improving public transportation and paratransit services to meet low-mobility individuals' needs. DOI: 10.1061/(ASCE)UP.1943-5444 .0000142. © 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers. CE Database subject headings: Human factors; Handicapped persons; Social factors; Case studies; Utah; Urban development; Transportation management.
Features or Parameters: Which One Makes Second Language Acquisition Easier, and More Interesting to Study?.

While agreeing with Lardiere that the `parameter-resetting' approach to understanding second language acquisition (SLA) needs rethinking, it is suggested that a more construction-based perspective runs the risk of losing deductive and explanatory power. An alternative is to investigate the constraints on feature assembly/re-assembly in second language (L2) grammars. A model of grammatical organization is adopted from Ramchand and Svenonius (2008) in which properties of the conceptual—intentional (C—I) module of mind are universal, and variation between languages is determined by the extent to which such properties are grammaticalized or determined by context. Predictions are then made about the degree of difficulty involved in determining the appropriate mapping from the C—I module to grammar or context when a learner's first language (L1) is similar to or different from the L2.
Fabrication and Secondary‐Phase Crystallization of Rare‐Earth Disilicate–Silicon Nitride Ceramics

The fabrication and intergranular-phase devitrification of silicon nitride densified with rare-earth (RE) oxide additives has been investigated. The additions of the oxides of Sm, Gd, Dy, Er, and Yb, having high melting points and behaving similarly to Y2O3, were compositionally controlled to tailor a microstructure with a crystalline secondary phase of RE2Si2O7. The lanthanide oxides were found to be as effective as Y2O3 in densifying Si3N4, resulting in identical microstructures and densities of 98–99% of theoretical density. The crystallization behavior of all six disilicates was similar, characterized by a limited nucleation and rapid growth mechanism resulting in large single crystals. Complete crystallization of the intergranular phase was obtained with the exception of a thin residual amorphous film which was observed at interfaces and believed to be rich in impurities, the cause of incomplete devitrification.
Abstract 3736: Assessment of tobacco use within 30 days increases referral for cessation support

Proceedings: AACR 106th Annual Meeting 2015; April 18-22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA Background: Cancer patients who self-report tobacco use within the past 30 days are at high risk for relapse and benefit from cessation support. However, there is little data on whether assessment of tobacco use within the past 30 days increases referral rates to a cessation program across cancer disease sites. Methods: Structured tobacco assessments were administered to 426 new adult patients in a Radiation Oncology clinic at a single institution. Multiple logistic regression was used to assess if clinical aspects of cancer diagnosis (age, gender, race, disease site [head/neck or thoracic {HNT} vs. other], stage [advanced vs. early], and purpose [curative vs. palliative]) affected cessation service referral rates identified using assessment of tobacco use within the past 30 days. Results: Complete medical and tobacco use data were compiled for 387 adult cancer patients (91%). Of these, 147 (38%) were women, 259 (67%) were Caucasian, 115 (30%) were black, 177 (46%) were diagnosed with HNT cancer, and 289 (74%) were being considered for curative cancer treatment. Ever smoking was reported in 273 patients (71%), and 83 (21%) reported current smoking everyday or some days. In 180 former smokers who reported time since last cigarette, 21 (12%) reported smoking within with past 30 days and 9 (7%) of these reported smoking within the past day or week. In 21 patients who were identified for cessation support through evaluation of smoking within the past 30 days, 6 (29%) were women, 7 (33%) were black, 15 (71%) were being considered for curative treatment, and 15 (71%) were diagnosed with a HNT cancer. Multiple logistic regression identified that younger age (10 yr OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.47 - 3.98) and HNT cancer (OR 8.13, 95% CI 2.2-30.3) but not gender, race, stage, and purpose were significantly associated with referral based on assessment of tobacco use within the past 30 days. Identification of smoking within the past 30 days increased cessation referrals by 25% from 83 to 114 patients. Conclusions: Assessment of tobacco use within the past 30 days increased referrals to a smoking cessation program from a Radiation Oncology clinic using a standardized tobacco assessment. In clinical trials and practice, including this question has particular benefit for younger patients and patients with head/neck or thoracic tumors. Citation Format: Samuel Lewis Cooper, Katherine Hoover, Elizabeth Garrett-Mayer, Kenneth Michael Cummings, Matthew J. Carpenter, Kelly Crowley, David T. Marshall, Graham W. Warren. Assessment of tobacco use within 30 days increases referral for cessation support. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 3736. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-3736
Sleep Disorders Associated With Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Using Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 3.

Abstract Background Sleep problems affect 30% to 80% of patients with mild traumatic brain injury. We assessed the prevalence of sleep disorders after mild traumatic brain injury and its correlation with other symptoms. Methods and Materials Individuals with mild traumatic brain injury were assessed at the New York University Concussion Center during 2013-2014 with the Sports Concussion Assessment Tool, third edition, data following mild traumatic brain injury. The relationship between sleep problems (drowsiness, difficulty falling asleep, fatigue or low energy), psychiatric symptoms (sadness, nervousness or anxiousness), headache, and dizziness were analyzed by Spearman correlation and logistic regression using moderate to severe versus none to mild categorization. Results Ninety-three patients were retrospectively considered. The most common injury causes were falls (34.4%) and motor vehicle accidents (21.5%). There was a positive correlation between dizziness, headache, psychiatric problems (sadness, anxiety, irritability), and sleep problems (fatigue, drowsiness, and difficulty falling asleep) ( P P P P P Conclusions Individuals who report moderate to severe headache, dizziness, and psychiatric symptoms have a higher likelihood of reporting moderate to severe sleep disorders following mild traumatic brain injury and should be counseled and initiated with early interventions.
Radiosynthesis and evaluation of [11C]SU11274 for in vivo PET imaging of MET receptors

1121 Objectives To radiosynthesize and evaluate a molecular imaging probe, termed [11C]SU11274 ([11C]14), for quantification of MET receptors in human cancers in vivo. Methods (3-[3,5-dimethyl-4-(4-methyl-piperazine-carbonyl)-1H-pyrrol-2-ylmethylene]-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indole-5-sulfonic acid (3-chlorophenyl)-methyl amide (14) was radiolabelled with C-11 through radiomethylation of 3-[3,5-dimethyl-4-(piperazine-1-carbonyl)-1H-pyrrol-2-ylmethylene]-2-oxo-2,3-dihyro-1H-indole-5-sulfonic acid (3-chlorophenyl)-methyl amide hydrochloride (13) that was designed as the precursor. For in vivo microPET studies, two human lung cancer xenograft models were established using MET-positive NCI-H1975 and MET- negative NCI-H520. MRI (9.4T) studies were performed right after microPET to co-register with microPET images. In vitro histological studies were further conducted after microPET and MRI imaging. Results The synthesis of 13 was achieved in 10 steps with a total yield of 9.7%. [11C]14 was obtained in a range of 5-10 % radiochemical yield and over 95% radiochemical purity after HPLC preparation. Quantitative microPET study showed that the tumor uptake of the [11C]14 in the NCI-H1975 xenograft was significantly higher than that in the NCI-H520 xenograft, which is consistent with their corresponding immunohistochemical tissue staining patterns of MET receptors from the same animals. Conclusions These studies demonstrated that [11C]14-PET is an appropriate imaging marker for quantification of MET receptor in vivo and can facilitate efficacy evaluation in the clinical development of MET targeted cancer therapeutics
American Public Attitudes Toward Foreign Policy

This article explores the manner in which the American public structures its attitudes toward foreign policy in the post-Vietnam era. There is general agreement among analysts that the unidimensional internationalist-isolationist continuum was a casualty of Vietnam. But there is disagreement over what kind of attitudinal structure has supplanted it. Basically, the disagreement revolves around the number of dimensions necessary to characterize attitudinal structure adequately. In exploring the conceptual foundations underlying mass attitudes toward foreign policy, this article validates a fourfold typology derived from the joint distribution of two orthogonal attitudinal factors, cooperative and militant internationalism. It then examines the political and socioeconomic correlates of mass attitudes toward traditional foreign policy issues. Finally, by controlling for contextual variables, it attempts to reincorporate attitudes toward nontraditional foreign policy issues into the bidimensional factor space, largely unsuccessfully. We speculate in conclusion that the inconsistencies that often seem to accompany foreign policy objectives and behaviors concerning nontraditional issues may not owe to any sinister origins, but may simply be an elite manifestation of what we uncovered in the mass sample.
Carbon isotope composition, gas exchange and heterotrophy in Australian mistletoes

Photosynthesis, transpiration and carbon isotope ratios of 11 mistletoes and their hosts were measured in central and eastern Australia to test hypotheses regarding similarity of photosynthetic rate between host and parasite and significance of host xylem carbon as a contributor to parasite carbon gain. Differences in photosynthetic rates of mistletoes and their hosts were not statistically significant, although most mistletoes had slightly lower photosynthetic rates and much higher transpiration rates than their hosts. Uptake of carbon dissolved in the xylem sap of the host was estimated from the discrepancy between observed and predicted carbon isotope ratios. Dividing xylem carbon gain by measured transpiration yielded a mean ± SE xylem carbon concentration of 10 ± 2.0 mM (...)
Building Organic Monolayers Based on Fluorinated Amines on the Si(111) Surface

Functionalized silicon surfaces can serve as starting points for a wide variety of structures. Controlled introduction of fluorine-containing monolayers on silicon may affect a number of chemical a...