cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Use of Synthetic Peptides to Identify Measles Nucleoprotein T-Cell Epitopes in Vaccinated and Naturally Infected Humans☆☆☆

Abstract Recombinant measles nucleoprotein (N) and synthetic peptides spanning the length of the N-protein-coding region were used with a proliferation assay to identify human T-cell epitopes in vaccinated and naturally infected adults. A number of epitopes were mapped to specific regions of the measles virus N. The proliferative response of at least two donors was mediated by CD4 + T cells in association with HLA DR antigens. Over 70% of all donors tested responded to peptides representing amino acids 271–290, 367–386, 400–420, and 483–502, suggesting that these peptides may be broadly recognized within an HLA diverse population. The most frequently recognized T-cell epitopes in both naturally infected and vaccinated donors were located in the genetically heterogeneous carboxy-terminal half of the N. Analysis of patterns of peptide reactivity among vaccinated and naturally infected subjects identified several regions of potential difference between these two groups. Peptides 221–240 and 237–256 were recognized among 100% of naturally infected donors but among only 37.5% of vaccinated donors and therefore may be of further interest in studies to investigate induction of lifelong versus transient immunity to measles. Use of chimeric molecules containing multiple well-characterized T- and B-cell epitopes or genetic alteration of attenuated vaccine virus to enhance critical T-cell responses may eventually lead to the development of a vaccine candidate that can more closely model the patterns of immune response elicited by wild-type virus.
Inclusion transformations: ( n,m )-graphs and their classification

Abstract Several cominbatorial objects of general interest share similar definitions, i.e., complete bipartite graphs, Eulerian graphs and two-graphs. This article generalizes this definition to obtain a class of combinatorial objects known as ( n, m )-graphs. A classification of ( n, m )- graphs is presented that is complete for a big enough set of points. In the course of this classification, a theorem is proved that seems fundamental to the study of: the inclusion relation; ( n, m )-graphs; certain sub-codes of the Reed-Muller codes and the irreducible representations of the symmetric group that arise from two-part partitions.
Physical adsorption analysis of intact supported MFI zeolite membranes

We compare the adsorption properties of intact supported silicalite membranes with those of silicalite powder and of alumina supports using nitrogen and argon as adsorbates at 77 K. We disentangle contributions from the membrane and support and find that the support contributes significantly to the total quantity adsorbed due to its relative thickness. The micropore-filling regions of the adsorption isotherms of the powder and the supported membrane are nearly identical for the membranes studied, but the isotherms differ at higher pressuresthe supported membranes exhibit a much higher quantity adsorbed than the powders. Despite this difference, no hysteresis is observed in the membrane isotherms, indicating a lack of mesoporosity (pores in the 2−50 nm range) in either membrane or support for this preparation. We estimate argon transport fluxes at steady state by assuming surface diffusion with both a constant and concentration-dependent Maxwell−Stefan diffusion coefficient in the zeolite and the support. ...
Differential effects of impaired mitochondrial energy production on the function of mu and delta opioid receptors in neuronal SK-N-SH cells.

Abstract Oxidative stress contributes to changes in neurosensory processing, including pain, that occur during aging and neurodegeneration. The effects of neuronal oxidation on the opioid system are poorly understood. In this in vitro study, oxidative stress was induced by 3-nitroproprionic acid (3-NPA) in opioid-responsive differentiated SK-N-SH cells. Changes in the inhibitory effects of opioid receptor agonists on intracellular cAMP were used as a marker of the function of mu and delta opioid receptors (MOR and DOR, respectively). Cells were treated with morphine and selective MOR and DOR agonists and antagonists to characterize the function of each receptor subtype. Cyclic AMP (cAMP) was measured by enzyme immunoassay. Levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed using the 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate assay. Exposure of cells to 3-NPA resulted in an increase in ROS. After 3-NPA exposure, there was a significant attenuation of the inhibitory effect of morphine and DAMGO but not of DPDPE on cAMP. In cells pretreated with CTOP, 3-NPA did not change the inhibitory effect on cAMP. These findings demonstrate for the first time that under conditions of mitochondrial damage, the function of MOR is significantly decreased, while the function of DOR does not change, suggesting that the effect of 3-NPA on opioid receptors is subtype-specific.
The use of a refined error bound when updating eigenvalues of tridiagonals

Abstract The Lanczos algorithm is used to compute some eigenvalues of a given symmetric matrix of large order. At each step of the Lanczos algorithm it is valuable to know which eigenvalues of the associated tridiagonal matrix have stabilized at eigenvalues of the given symmetric matrix. We present a robust algorithm which is fast (20 j to 40 j operations at the j th Lanczos step), uses about 30 words of extra storage, and has a fairly short program (approxiamately 200 executable statements)
Measuring pain medication expectancies in adults treated for substance use disorders

Background: The U.S. prevalence of misuse of prescription opioid analgesics has increased substantially over the past decade but research on the factors influencing misuse of these medications remains preliminary. In the literature on alcohol, marijuana and stimulants, substance-related expectancies have been found to predict level of substance use. A similar line of research is needed to better understand reasons for misusing pain medications. Methods: This study utilized a sample of adults presenting to a large residential addictions treatment program (N = 351). Participants were administered a new instrument, the Pain Medication Expectancy Questionnaire (PMEQ) as well as questions about current alcohol, illegal drug and pain medication misuse. Exploratory factor analysis was used to determine underlying factors of the PMEQ. Results: Results of the factor analysis supported a three-factor solution focusing on pleasure/social enhancement, pain reduction and negative experience reduction. In general, greater perceived expectancy of the positive effects of Prescription Opiate Analgesics (POAs) in all three domains were correlated with greater frequency of substance use and poorer mental health functioning. Expectancies directly related to the pain-reducing properties of POAs were also related to greater pain and poorer physical functioning. Conclusions: This new measure of pain medication expectancies had sound psychometric properties and the resulting factors were associated with other clinically important aspects of patient functioning. The results highlight the need to assess for and address perceptions related to pain medication use in patients presenting to addictions treatment. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.
Biogeography of soil nematodes

Abstract Biogeography is the study of distributions of organisms, plus an attempt to explain the distributions. Two approaches to explanation of biogeographic patterns may be termed ecological biogeography and historical biogeography. Most nematologists have taken the ecological approach, with a goal of determining why a particular species is restricted to certain areas, and not present in nearby areas. Historical biogeography is based on the premise that present-day patterns of taxa result largely from the history of the taxa and of the areas of the earth in which they have lived. Nematologists generally adhere to the classic view of dispersal in which a center of origin is postulated and long-range dispersal over barriers is invoked. The dispersal mechanism is often assumed to be man himself. Challenges to this approach exist in the form of methods which infer the biogeographic history from phylogeny. Vicariance biogeographers postulate fragmentation of widespread ancestral biotas, resulting from geological, climatic or other disjunctions, and further allopatric speciation among descendant biotas. Distributions amenable to general explanation can be distinguished from those which require unique dispersal events. Biogeography of soil nematodes is hampered by present limitations in systematics, including our inability to determine species limits with certainty.
NITRIC OXIDE AS AN AUTOCRINE REGULATOR OF SODIUM CURRENTS IN BARORECEPTOR NEURONS

Arterial baroreceptors are mechanosensitive nerve endings in the aortic arch and carotid sinus that play a critical role in acute regulation of arterial blood pressure. A previous study has shown that nitric oxide (NO) or NO-related species suppress action potential discharge of baroreceptors. In the present study, we investigated the effects of NO on Na+ currents of isolated baroreceptor neurons in culture. Exogenous NO donors inhibited both tetrodotoxin (TTX) -sensitive and -insensitive Na+ currents. The inhibition was not mediated by cGMP but by NO interaction with channel thiols. Acute inhibition of NO synthase increased the Na+ currents. NO scavengers (hemoglobin and ferrous diethyldithiocarbamate) increased Na+ currents before but not after inhibition of NO synthase. Furthermore, NO production in the neuronal cultures was detected by chemiluminescence and immunoreactivity to the neuronal isoform of NO synthase was identified in fluorescently identified baroreceptor neurons. These results indicate that NO/NO-related species function as autocrine regulators of Na+ currents in baroreceptor neurons. Modulation of Na+ channels may represent a novel response to NO.
Epitaxial yttria-stabilized zirconia on biaxially-textured (001) Ni for YBCO coated conductor

Abstract Epitaxial YSZ film was deposited directly on biaxially-textured (001) Ni tapes using pulsed-laser deposition. Nucleation of the YSZ film on Ni is achieved without the intentional removal of the native oxide from the Ni (001) surface. The epitaxial YSZ layer grown on the Ni (001) surface was used as a single buffer layer for a high temperature superconducting coated conductor architecture, yielding YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 films with critical current density of 1 MA/cm 2 at 77 K. This architecture eliminates the necessity for a multilayer buffer architecture, as high J c superconducting films are achieved with no intermediate buffer layer between the (001) YSZ and the biaxially textured metal.
Combined Angiogenic and Osteogenic Factor Delivery Enhances Bone Marrow Stromal Cell‐Driven Bone Regeneration

Bone formation is a coordinated process involving various biological factors. We have developed a scaffold system capable of sustained and localized presentation of osteogenic (BMP-4) and angiogenic (VEGF) growth factors and human bone marrow stromal cells to promote bone formation at an ectopic site. Combined delivery of these factors significantly enhanced bone formation compared with other conditions. Introduction: Tissue regeneration entails complex interactions between multiple signals and materials platforms. Orchestrating the presentation of these signals may greatly enhance the regeneration of lost tissue mass. Bone formation, for example, is dependent on the signaling of BMPs, molecules initiating vascularization (e.g., vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF]), and osteogenic precursor cells capable of responding to these cues and forming bone tissue. It was hypothesized that combined and concerted delivery of these factors from biodegradable scaffolds would lead to enhanced bone formation. Materials and Methods: Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) scaffolds containing combinations of condensed plasmid DNA encoding for BMP-4, VEGF, and human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs) were implanted into the subcutaneous tissue of SCID mice. Implants (n = 6) were retrieved at 3, 8, and 15 weeks after implantation. Bone and blood vessel formation was determined qualitatively and quantitatively by methods including histology, immmunostaining, and μCT. Results: Scaffolds delivering VEGF resulted in a prominent increase in blood vessel formation relative to the conditions without VEGF. BMP-4 expression in scaffolds encapsulating condensed DNA was also confirmed at the 15-week time-point, showing the characteristic of long-term delivery in this system. Combined delivery of all three types of factors resulted in a significant increase in the quantity of regenerated bone compared with any factor alone or any two factors combined, as measured with DXA, X-ray, and histomorphometric analysis. Furthermore, bone formed with all three factors had elastic moduli significantly higher than any other condition. Conclusions: Concerted delivery of BMP-4, VEGF, and hBMSCs promoted greater bone formation relative to any single factor or combination of two factors. Materials systems that allows multifactorial presentation more closely mimic natural developmental processes, and these results may have important implications for bone regeneration therapeutics.
Editor's Introduction : Social Advocacy

There comes a time in a man's [woman's] life when to get where he [she] has to go—if there are no doors or windows—he [she] walks through a wall. —Bernard Malamud
McConnell Sign in a Patient with Massive Acute Pulmonary Embolism

A 48-year-old female was admitted after experiencing a brief syncopal episode. Three weeks ago the patient sustained a right arm humerus bone fracture in a motor vehicle accident. Since the accident, her mobility has been limited. CT angiogram of the chest revealed massive bilateral pulmonary emboli. A 2D echocardiogram was performed, which demonstrated McConnell sign and severe right ventricle dysfunction. Considering potential of hemodynamic instability, the patient received fibrinolytic therapy with Alteplase. A subsequent 2D echocardiogram showed complete resolution of McConnell sign and right ventricle dysfunction.
Smokingcessation in women

Abstract “It is a testament to the power of tobacco addiction that millions of tobacco users have been unable to overcome their dependence and save themselves from its consequences: perpetual worry, unceasing expense, and compromised health” (Fiore MC, Bailey WC, Cohen SJ, et al., 2000). Nearly one quarter of the women in this country smoke, and it is the leading cause of preventable death in U.S. women. Smoking during pregnancy contributes significantly to medical complications suffered by both mother and fetus. Despite these statistics, many medical schools and residency programs do not give adequate training on smoking cessation interventions. The U.S. Public Health Service has outlined an effective and fairly simple strategy that can be integrated into any office setting. An organized clinical approach with properly trained staff can improve the quality of life for thousands of women and infants and save millions of dollars across the country. It takes a few extra minutes of a physician’s time, but those few minutes have a significant impact on a patient’s quitting success. This article describes current trends in smoking prevalence, the latest facts about nicotine replacement therapy, and the U.S. Public Health Service’s and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ (ACOG) approved recommendations for smoking cessation.
Socioemotional adjustment as a mediator of the association between exposure to community violence and academic performance in low-income adolescents

OBJECTIVE: This study examines whether exposure to community violence is indirectly related to academic performance through anxious/depressed symptoms and delinquent behaviors. METHODS: Three hundred eighteen mothers and adolescents who participated in a longitudinal investigation were interviewed when adolescents were age 10, 14, and 16. RESULTS: Community violence exposure at age 14 was significantly related to anxious/depressed symptoms and delinquent behaviors. Delinquent behaviors (but not anxious/depressed symptoms) were significantly associated with academic performance at age 16. Exposure to community violence was indirectly related to academic performance through delinquent behaviors. There was no significant indirect effect of exposure to community violence on academic performance through anxious/depressed symptoms. Covariates included sociodemographics and exposure to child abuse. Age 10 anxious/depressed symptoms, age 10 delinquent behaviors, and age 14 academic performance were also included in the model to control for preexisting differences in socioemotional adjustment and academic performance. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that exposure to community violence may initiate a cascade of problems that spread from behavior problems to declines in academic performance. Our results highlight the need for schools to consider exposure to community violence as one form of trauma and to transform in ways that make them more trauma-sensitive. The use of trauma-sensitive practices that address the effects of violence exposure on youth may help limit the progression of adverse effects from delinquent behavior to other domains of functioning. Language: en
Isolation of cDNA clones for human β-glucocerebrosidase using the λgtll expression system

Abstract Two cDNA clones (λGC-1 and λGC-2) for human β-glucocerebrosidase [EC 3.2.1.45] have been isolated from a human hepatoma library in λgtll by immunological screening using monospecific polyclonal antibody for β-glucocerebrosidase. Restriction endonuclease mapping indicates that these clones are probably identical in size, each with a 1900 bp insert. The 50 kDa size of the insert-encoded polypeptide produced by these clones in fusion with β-galactosidase of λgtll in E. coli BNN103 is consistent with the size of the nascent form of β-glucocerebrosidase. These fusion proteins are shown by Western blotting to react with antibody to β-glucocerebrosidase. Amino acid sequence deduced from the nucleotide sequence of the insert ir pGC-1 is identical to known amino acid sequence of β-glucocerebrosidase, and thus, confirms that the clones are specific for β-glucocerebrosidase.
WalkMinder: encouraging an active lifestyle using mobile phone interruptions

Medical research suggests that avoiding lengthy periods of physical inactivity can have significant health benefits. The pervasive nature of mobile phones increasingly allows individuals to track and measure their own physical activity thus creating opportunities for them to reflect on their behavior and make informed changes. In this work, we investigated two mechanisms for encouraging a more active lifestyle: a glanceable display of an individual's level of physical activity and mobile phone vibrations to interrupt extended periods of inactivity. We found that both mechanisms can help users become more aware of their activity patterns but may be ignored unless coupled with concrete advice on how to incorporate active moments into their day.
Development in early literacy skills during the pre-kindergarten year in Head Start: Relations between growth in children's writing and understanding of letters

Abstract Children's literacy skills are an important predictor of success in the early elementary grades. Education programs for at-risk preschool students target children's acquisition of specific literacy skills, including knowledge of letters of the alphabet, in preparing children for early school success. Writing has been proposed as a complementary approach to other instructional strategies for teaching young children about letters. This study examines relations among preschool children's early writing competence, knowledge of letter names, sensitivity to initial sounds in words and understanding of print concepts in a sample of low-income children enrolled in Head Start. Data were collected from the beginning to the end of the school year, which offered the opportunity to examine concurrent development of these early literacy skills. Results revealed that children whose writing was more sophisticated knew the names of more letters, understood more about print concepts and were more sensitive to initial sounds of words. There was evidence of bidirectional influences of writing on growth in letter knowledge, and of letter knowledge on growth in writing competence.
Trehalose Level in the Hemolymph of Heliothis virescens Parasitized by Campoletis sonorensis

Hemolymph trehalose levels from Heliothis virescens (F.) larvae parasitized by Campoletis sonorensis (Cameron) were somewhat greater than the controls for the 1st 4 days following parasitization. However, on days 5 and 6 hemolymph trehalose concentration from parasitized larvae was nearly 5 times greater than the control. Dry weight of the hemolymph was not affected by C. sonorensis. This constitutes another example of host-regulation by a parasite.
Copper(II) interaction with carbonate species based on malachite solubility in perchlorate medium at the ionic strength of seawater

Abstract Equilibrium constants for copper(II)-carbonate and -bicarbonate species have been determined at 25°C from consideration of malachite, Cu2(OH)2CO3(s), solubility in UV-photo-oxidized perchlorate solutions of 0.72 m ionic strength. The ratios of total dissolved copper, T(Cu), to free copper(II) ion, [Cu 2+], in 30 malachite saturated experimental solutions of 1–10 × 10−3eq kg−1 H2O initial total alkalinity (TAi in the pH range 5.0–9.3 were fitted to a copper(II)-ion speciation model. The experimental data indicate the existence of CuCO3+, CuHCO3+ and Cu(OH)CO3− in addition to the hydrolys and Cu(OH)CO3− in addition to the hydrolysis products in the range of conditions defined by this study. The stoichiometric equilibrium constants, applicable to seawater at 0.72 m ionic strength, 25°C and 1 atm are β CuCO 3 = [ CuCO 0 3 ] [ Cu 2+ ][ CO 2− 3 ] =(1.59±0.03)×10 6 β CuHCO 3 = [ CuHCO + 3 ] [ Cu 2+ ][ HCO − 3 ] =(2.3±0.3)×10 2 ∗ β Cu(OH)CO 3 = [ Cu(OH)CO − 3 ]α H [ Cu 2+ ][ CO 2− 3 ] =(7.6±0.3)×10 −4 A speciation model employing the equilibrium constants determined in this study and copper(II) hydrolysis constants from previous work suggests that the inorganic speciation in seawater (pH = 8.2, TA = 2.3 meq kg −1, 25°C) is dominated by the CuCO30 complex (82%) and that only 2.9% of the total inorganic copper exists as the free copper(II) ion. Hydrolysis products, CuOH+ and Cu(OH)20, account for 6.5% while CuHCO3+ and Cu(OH)CO3− species comprise 1.0 and 6.3% of the total inorganic copper, respectively.
Apparel descriptions in catalogs and perceived risk associated with catalog purchases

The present study had two overall objectives: (a) to identify and clarify important yet inadequate information in a catalog's apparel descriptions, and (b) to test if clarifications of the descript...
Composition and origin of the atmosphere of Jupiter—an update, and implications for the extrasolar giant planets

Abstract New developments have led to this update of the composition and origin of Jupiter's atmosphere that were originally discussed in our Planet. Space Sci. 47 (1999) 1243 paper. Since Jupiter can provide important insight into the atmospheres of extrasolar giant planets (EGP), we also discuss here the possible implications of the first detection of an atmosphere on an EGP. The ammonia mixing ratio on Jupiter has now been determined directly from the Galileo probe mass spectrometer (GPMS) data, and its value relative to H 2 (7.1±3.2)×10 −4 in the 9– 12 bar region, is found to be similar to the previously reported result inferred from the radio attenuation technique on Galileo. The Jovian 15 N / 14 N ratio is found to be much lower than the terrestrial value at (2.3±0.3)×10−3. A complete analysis of the various uncertainties in the GPMS data yields an H2O mixing ratio of 6.0(+3.9,−2.8)×10−4 at 19 bar in the hotspot, and a trend of increase with depth; all other mixing ratios and error bars remain unchanged. CH3, previously detected on Saturn and Neptune, has now also been detected in the atmosphere of Jupiter recently by Cassini. Benzene is the heaviest hydrocarbon detected to date in the atmospheres of Jupiter and Saturn. Abundances inferred from Infrared Space Observatory measurements are 9(+4.5,−7.5)×1014 and 4.7(+2.1,−1.1)×10 13 cm −2 for pressures less than 50 and 10 mbar on Jupiter and Saturn, respectively. Finally, we propose that the recently detected sodium in the atmosphere of the EGP orbiting HD 209458 may have mainly a post-accretionary extraplanetary origin, rather than being primordial.
Culture-centered career intervention

1. IntroductionAlthough early studies focused on intervention outcomes using traditional pre-postdesigns,careerinterventionresearchhasshiftedfocus,ratherdramatically,to-wardinterventionprocessresearch.Suchashiftwaspossiblebecause,asthearticlesinthisspecialsectionconﬁrm,meta-analysesof50yearsofresearchstudiesreassureusthatweareconsistentlysuccessfulinproducingpositiveoutcomesforthemajorityofourtraditionalclientbase.Thus,earlyinthe1980s,underthepresumptionthatwe couldcreatemore preciseandpowerful career interventions,we redirectedourwork to the goal of understanding the process by which gains occur. Our logicwas,andis,quitesound.Thislogicdoesnot,however,precludemoreoutcomestud-ies—itdemandsmoreoutcomestudies—simplyadiﬀerentkind.Allthreeofthecontributionsinthisspecialsectionareexcellentexamplesofhowevolving,programmaticempirical researchcaninformthepracticeofcareer inter-vention.Furtherprogressinunderstandingwhatwedoshouldresultfrommodestrevisionsinourassumptionscombinedwithfurtherenhancementsofourmethodol-ogiesandconsolidationoftheoutcomesweseek.Whenwefaceourclientsduringinterventions, we appreciate the fears they feel,the barriers they will face, and, toaconsiderableextent,howtheyandwecanoptimallyconductourselvesforasuc-cessful outcome. That we have much more to understand should motivate ratherthandiscouragefuturestudies.
Identification of the thiamin salvage enzyme thiazole kinase in Arabidopsis and maize

The breakdown of thiamin (vitamin B1) and its phosphates releases a thiazole moiety, 4-methyl-5-(2-hydroxyethyl)thiazole (THZ), that microorganisms and plants are able to salvage for re-use in thiamin synthesis. The salvage process starts with the ATP-dependent phosphorylation of THZ, which in bacteria is mediated by ThiM. The Arabidopsis and maize genomes encode homologs of ThiM (At3g24030 and GRMZM2G094558, respectively). Plasmid-driven expression of either plant homolog restored the ability of THZ to rescue Escherichia coli thiM deletant strains, showing that the plant proteins have ThiM activity in vivo. Enzymatic assays with purified recombinant proteins confirmed the presence of THZ kinase activity. Furthermore, ablating the Arabidopsis At3g24030 gene in a thiazole synthesis mutant severely impaired rescue by THZ. Collectively, these results show that ThiM homologs are the main source of THZ kinase activity in plants and are consequently crucial for thiamin salvage.
Excited-State Energy Transfer and Ground-State Hole/Electron Hopping in p-Phenylene-Linked Porphyrin Dimers

The ground- and excited-state properties of a series of p-phenylene-linked porphyrin dimers have been examined using a variety of static and time-resolved spectroscopic techniques. The dimers consist of a zinc porphyrin and a free base (Fb) porphyrin (ZnFbΦ), two zinc porphyrins (Zn2Φ), or two Fb porphyrins (Fb2Φ). In each array, the porphyrins are joined by the p-phenylene linker at one meso position, with the nonlinking meso positions bearing mesityl groups. Three analogous dimers in which the mesityl groups are replaced with pentafluorophenyl groups (F30ZnFbΦ, F30Zn2Φ, and F30Fb2Φ) were also synthesized and characterized. The excited-state energy-transfer rate from the photoexcited Zn porphyrin to the Fb porphyrin is (3.5 ps)-1 for ZnFbΦ and (10 ps)-1 for F30ZnFbΦ. The quantum yields of excited-state energy transfer are ≥99% for both complexes. The energy-transfer rates in the p-phenylene-linked dimers are considerably faster than those observed for the analogous dimers containing a diphenylethyne link...
N-[1 -(Pentafluorophenyl)ethyl]- acetamide

The title compound, C10H8F5NO, crystallizes as a racemate with four symmetry-independent molecules in the asymmetric unit. The four molecules form two hydrogen-bonded pairs. Each pair is a building unit of an independent C4 chain propagating parallel to the ab plane.
Hybrid electro-optic polymer modulators for RF photonics

Electro-optic polymers have long held interest for RF photonics due to both their exceptionally large intrinsic bandwidth in traveling wave modulator geometries and, more recently, as a result of significant improvements in the electro-optic (EO) figure of merit. We will discuss our use of state-of-the-art EO polymers in hybrid device formats [1-4], where the polymer is integrated with sol-gel, glass or silicon waveguide structures in order to improve reliability and performance of the modulator. The current status of the technology in terms of key RF photonics figures of merit such as link gain and noise figure is also assessed.
Men and Women’s Attachment and Contact Patterns with Parents During the First Year of College

Attending a university involves change and transition and an opportunity to study older adolescents’ attachment. The current study explored potential gender differences in both older adolescents’ need-and nonneed-based interactions with parents and their perceptions of attachment quality. Results indicated that although females did not initiate significantly more need-based contact with parents than males, they received significantly more need-based contact than males that was initiated by their parents. On the other hand, females both initiated and received nonneed-based contact with parents more than males. Consistent with attachment theory, parent–child need- and nonneed-based interactions were related to one’s perceived quality of attachment. Results indicated that adolescent attachment involves both need- and nonneed-based parent–adolescent interactions. The pattern of findings suggests that adolescent males and females may show attachment in different ways.
The relationship of MIS steering committees to size of firm and formalization of MIS planning

Top-level management and directors of management information systems (MIS) have been urged to oversee information systems (IS) development efforts using MIS steering committees. Although such committees have been shown to assist with planning problems facing the MIS director, little is known about just how such committees relate to the planning process. Drawing on organizational theory literature, a conceptual model is presented that relates firm size and MIS steering committees to four IS planning practices. The results of this survey of 456 MIS directors suggest that use of an MIS steering committee is associated with more formalized and systematic MIS planning. However, some of these relationships are stronger in large firms.
The Application of a Polypyrrole Precoat for the Metallization of Printed Circuit Boards

We describe a printed circuit (PC) board metallization process starting with the formation of a precoat of polypyrrole (PPY) on the board followed by the direct electrodeposition of copper onto the polypyrrole-coated substrate. The polypyrrole film is applied to the insulating substrate by a single chemical polymerization step from an aqueous solution. The sheet resistivity of the polypyrrole precoat is typically of the order of a few hundred ohms/square, but this turns out to be a sufficiently low resistance to enable direct metal electrodeposition onto the PPY-coated substrate.
Challenges to evaluating Petaflops systems

Summary form only given. Even as the high performance computing community approaches 100 Teraflops Linpack performance, challenges to supercomputer hardware and software design may impede further progress and limit scalability and performance to cost. The assumed canonical methods of harnessing distributed resources are being severely stressed by the continued advances of Moore's law and system scaling as well as the complexities of emerging interdisciplinary applications. As we struggle into the Petaflops era, new models and metrics will be essential to guide all aspects of the evolution and application of future systems. A new generation of computer architecture such as the Cray Cascade system will employ its resources in potentially innovative ways quite different from today's prosaic commodity clusters (or MPPs). What those semantic and physical structures should look like and how they should be employed must be determined by aggressive application of a mix of modeling and evaluation techniques. While such methods in almost all cases have been explored, their use in the design and implementation of real world systems is currently limited. This presentation discusses the challenges to evaluating future generation Petaflops scale systems and the kinds of questions that needs to be answered that are usually not addressed in the early design cycle. Included for consideration are the baseline of optimality that should be used (today it is peak), measures of the impact of memory systems including concepts of temporal and spatial locality, cost functions for normalization of observed capabilities, and the role of statistical parametric tradeoff studies. In addition, this presentation briefly examines issues related to user productivity and the impact of system characteristics on them. This article concludes that among the most important trends in advanced high end computing is the dramatic potential of quantitative evaluation of systems.
An economical device for the microanalysis of licking

Abstract A drinkometer is described which furnishes a more fine-grained analysis of licking than that provided by many commercially available devices. This equipment has the added advantages of passing only minute levels of current through the animal (0.36 μA) as well as being economical and simple to construct.
Residues and degradation products of technical heptachlor in various soil types.

The persistence and degradation of heptachlor varied considerably by location in tests in 5 areas of the United States. Relatively high values for 1-hydroxy-chlordene, representing approximately 60% of the insecticide in the soil, were obtained for extracts of a Quincy loamy fine sand from Oregon. Significant amounts of 1-hydroxy-chlordene were found in the extracts of Lake land sand from Florida. Generally, heptachlor epoxide represented only a small fraction of the insecticide present in the soils.
Two-step polarization-labeling spectroscopy of excited states of Na 2

Two-step polarization-labeling spectroscopy of diatomic molecules is described. Formulas for relative transition intensities are derived, and their use in determining angular momenta of molecular states is discussed. The experimental apparatus and procedure used to identify twenty-four new $^{1}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{g}^{+}$, $^{1}\ensuremath{\Pi}_{g}$, and $^{1}\ensuremath{\Delta}_{g}$ states in ${\mathrm{Na}}_{2}$ are described. The states are identified as low-lying members, $n=3 \mathrm{to} 14$, of several molecular Rydberg series, and the dependence of their properties on principal quantum numbers is shown. These results are extrapolated to yield constants for the ground state of $\mathrm{Na}_{2}^{}{}_{}{}^{+}$.
Generalizing the Dempster-Schafer theory to fuzzy sets

A generalization of the Dempster-Schafer (D-S) theory to deal with fuzzy sets is described in which the belief and plausibility functions are treated as lower and upper probabilities. It is shown that computing the degree of belief in a hypothesis in the D-S theory can be formulated as an optimization problem. The extended belief function is thus obtained by generalizing the objective function and the constraints of the optimization problem. To combine bodies of evidence that may contain vague information, Dempster's rule (1967) is extended by (1) combining generalized compatibility relations based on the possibility theory, and (2) normalizing combination results to account for partially conflicting evidence. The generalization not only extends the application of the D-S theory but also illustrates a way that probability theory and fuzzy set theory can be integrated in a sound manner in order to deal with different kinds of uncertain information in intelligent systems. >
THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF FOWL CHOLERA : VI. THE SPREAD OF EPIDEMIC AND ENDEMIC STRAINS OF PASTEURELLA AVICIDA IN LABORATORY POPULATIONS OF NORMAL FOWL.

1. Strains of-P. avicida from "spontaneous epidemics" of fowl cholera, when introduced intranasally in fixed doses into specially bred chickens, induced fatal fowl cholera in about 40 per cent but did not survive in the nasal clefts of resistant birds nor spread to normal contacts. 2. Strains of P. avicida from "spontaneous endemics" of fowl cholera, when introduced similarly into chickens, failed to kill but did survive in the nasal clefts of inoculated birds and spread readily to normal contacts. 3. "Laboratory" variants of the epidemic strains of P. avicida failed to kill or survive in the test birds and did not spread to contacts.
Synthesis and characterization of SIRT6 protein coated magnetic beads: identification of a novel inhibitor of SIRT6 deacetylase from medicinal plant extracts.

SIRT6 is a histone deacetylase that has been proposed as a potential therapeutic target for metabolic disorders and the prevention of age-associated diseases. Thus, the identification of compounds that modulate SIRT6 activity could be of great therapeutic importance. The aim of this study was to develop a screening method for the identification of novel modulators of SIRT6 from a natural plant extract. We immobilized SIRT6 onto the surface of magnetic beads, and assessed SIRT6 enzymatic activity on synthetic acetylated histone tails (H3K9Ac) by measuring products of the deacetylation process. The SIRT6 coated magnetic beads were then suspended in fenugreek seed extract (Trigonella foenum-graecum) as a bait to identify active ligands that suppress SIRT6 activity. While the entire extract also inhibited SIRT6 activity in a cell-based assay, the inhibitory effect of two flavonoids from this extract, quercetin and vitexin, was only detected in vitro. This is the first report on the use of protein-coated magne...
Clinical Innovation and Evaluation: Integrating Practice with Inquiry

We explore the complex interplay of clinical discovery and controlled evaluation, demonstrating how experience in the applied arena provides invaluable insights and ideas about the complexity of the human condition and of ways to intervene effectively. Case studies have features that earn them a firm place in psychological research, and to ignore their potential contributions is to limit severely the kind of knowledge that can be generated by more systematic modes of inquiry. Some limitations of group designs in comparative therapy research are also reviewed, again highlighting the importance of idiographic analyses of single cases. Innovation and creative advancement are most readily nurtured via immersion in clinical/applied work, but at the same time the nature of that work is inevitably shaped by theories and hypotheses that clinicians bring into the applied setting. These abstractions are themselves influenced by the clinician's interpretations of data, which interpretations are molded by theoretical and metatheoretical preconceptions. In this complex and interactive fashion, clinical innovation is part of a nonlinear network of forces that includes personal biases, professional allegiances, epistemological assumptions, theoretical preferences, and familiarity with and use of
CHARACTERISTICS OF CELL PHONE-RELATED MOTOR VEHICLE CRASHES IN NORTH CAROLINA

Computerized crash narratives for the period January 1, 1996, through August 31, 2000, were searched to identify 452 cell phone crashes that occurred in North Carolina. The characteristics of these crashes were compared with about 1,080,000 non-cell-phone crashes during the same period. Cell phone crashes were (a) less likely to result in a serious or fatal injury, (b) nearly twice as likely to be rear-end crashes, and (c) somewhat more likely to occur during the mid-day or afternoon hours. Moreover, cell phone crashes were more likely to occur in urban areas, on local streets, and on roads with no special feature. Drivers who were talking on a cell phone at the time of the crash were more likely to (a) have committed a driving violation, (b) be driving sport utility vehicles, and (c) be going straight. They were more likely to be male and under age 55. All of these cell phone versus non-cell-phone differences were statistically significant. As cell phones continue to proliferate, the number of cell phone crashes will probably increase. The challenge is to minimize the risks associated with cell phone use and driving, while allowing drivers to enjoy the benefits of cell phones.
A multiplexed protein kinase assay

We report a novel protein kinase assay designed for high-throughput detection of one or many kinases in a complex mixture. A solution-phase phosphorylation reaction is performed on 900 different peptide substrates, each covalently linked to an oligonucleotide tag. After incubation, phosphoserine, phosphothreonine, and phosphotyrosine are chemically labeled, and the substrates are hybridized to a microarray with oligonucleotides complementary to the tags to read out the phosphorylation state of each peptide. Because protein kinases act on more than one peptide sequence, each kinase can be characterized by a unique signature of phosphorylation activity on multiple substrates. Using this method, we determined signatures for 26 purified kinases and demonstrated that enzyme mixtures can be screened for activity and selectivity of inhibition.
Opinion: An Outlook on Automotive Software

[Editor's note] In this invited and peer-reviewed paper, Professor Ingolf Kru?ger reflects upon the controversy surrounding alleged, sudden acceleration incidents that have, by some, been ascribed to software in affected cars. We invite responses and follow-up comments related to such opinion papers that will be included for subsequent publication online based on recommendation from the editorial board.
AIRLINE SAFETY POSTURE: EVIDENCE FROM SERVICE-DIFFICULTY REPORTS

This study looks at the concept of airline safety posture. This concept is introduced to reflect how well an airline is positioned for safety operations. Fortunately, airline accidents are far too rare for meaningful statistical analysis of airline safety. However, the incidence of incidents that could represent safety hazards but do not necessarily result in accidents is relatively frequent and lends itself to such analysis. Difficulties encountered during operation are usually reported as service difficulty reports (SDRs). Despite the many problems in the reports, not the least of which is inadequate reporting, the writers use SDRs as an indicator of safety posture. A statistical analysis suggests that airline deregulation has not adversely affected the safety posture of airlines. It is also found that the safety posture of postderegulation new entrants is not significantly different from that of established airlines. There is evidence that the larger carriers have a better safety posture than the smaller ones, and that service difficulties increase with stage length.
Airport Capacity Enhancement and Flight Predictability

Justifications for enhancements to airport capacity are often framed in relation to flight delay reductions, but improvements to flight predictability also offer substantial benefits to the health of the aviation system. "Predictability" is defined in this paper as block time adherence and is measured as the difference between scheduled and actual block time. This research, using historical data, quantifies the impact on flight predictability of one airport's enhancement of infrastructure capacity. A case study using statistical methodologies, including cluster analysis of national airspace days and quantile regression of flights, identifies how deployment of a fifth runway at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia affected the predictability of flight arrivals. The analysis identifies four scenarios—defined according to the level of national airspace strain and terminal airspace weather disruption—for which inclusion of the fifth runway in the runway configuration is associated with ...
Optimization of Stormwater Filtration at the Urban/Watershed Interface

Environmental pollution from cities is a major ecological problem attributed to contaminated runoff from nonpoint sources. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's guidance on implementation of total maximum daily loads (TMDL) does not adequately cover methods to improve waters impaired by nonpoint sources. To comply with TMDLs, cities may install filters in curb inlets, or use other Best Management Practices (BMPs). We tested 10 different filters and found their effectiveness in retaining pollutants ranged from 0 to >90%, depending on combinations of pollutant types (metals, pathogens, and total suspended sediments (TSS)) and filter materials. Hence, the decision to deploy filters into curb inlets must consider land use patterns associated with specific categories of pollutants generated within cities. We developed a geographic information system (GIS)-enabled model for estimating and mitigating emissions of pollutants from urban regions into watersheds. The model uses land use categories and pollutant...
Novel submicroscopic chromosomal abnormalities detected in autism spectrum disorder.

Background One genetic mechanism known to be associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is chromosomal abnormalities. The identification of copy number variants (CNV), i.e., microdeletions and microduplications that are undetectable at the level of traditional cytogenetic analysis, allows the potential association of submicroscopic chromosomal imbalances and human disease. Methods We performed array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) utilizing a 19K whole genome tiling path bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) microarray on 397 unrelated subjects with autism spectrum disorder. Common CNV were excluded using a control group comprised of 372 individuals from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Genetics Initiative Control samples. Confirmation studies were performed on all remaining CNV using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), microsatellite analysis, and/or quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. Results A total of 51 CNV were confirmed in 46 ASD subjects. Three maternal interstitial duplications of 15q11-q13 known to be associated with ASD were identified. The other 48 CNV ranged in size from 189 kilobase (kb) to 5.5 megabase (Mb) and contained from 0 to ∼40 National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) Reference Sequence (RefSeq) genes. Seven CNV were de novo and 44 were inherited. Conclusions Fifty-one autism-specific CNV were identified in 46 of 397 ASD patients using a 19K BAC microarray for an overall rate of 11.6%. These microdeletions and microduplications cause gene dosage imbalance in 272 genes, many of which could be considered as candidate genes for autism.