cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
STAR: secure real-time transaction processing with timeliness guarantees

Real-time databases are needed in security-critical applications, e.g., e-commerce, agile manufacturing, and military applications. In these applications, transactions and data items can be classified into several security levels according to their clearance and sensitivity levels. It is essential for real-time databases to prevent illegal direct/indirect transfer of sensitive data, e.g., trade secret, manufacturing, or operational data, between transactions belonging to different security levels. Further transactions should be committed within their deadlines, i.e., before the market, manufacturing, or battlefield status changes. In this paper we present a novel real-time database architecture, in which illegal direct/indirect inter-level information flows are prevented while controlling the deadline miss ratio for admitted transactions to remain below a certain threshold. In our approach, mandatory access control mechanisms are applied for security purposes. QoS management, admission control, and feedback control schemes are applied to support certain guarantees on the miss ratio against potential overload and data conflicts. A detailed simulation study shows that our approach can support the specified miss ratio preventing illegal information flows even in the presence of unpredictable workloads and varying degrees of data contention, whereas baseline approaches fail.
Spectroscopic ellipsometry: a historical overview

Abstract The historical development of spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) from the very early stages to the present will be briefly reviewed. It is shown that SE is a truly powerful technique of great interest and use to physicists, chemists, electrochemists, electrical and chemical engineers, etc., as will be evident from the following few of the many reasons. (a) Firstly, the full spectra of the ellipsometric parameters Δ and Ψ as a function of wavelength from UV to IR can now be determined with a high degree of precision and accuracy in a few seconds. (b) Such data can also be processed to provide (i) the most accurate values to date of the dielectric functions (i.e. the real and the imaginary parts of the optical dielectric constant as a function of wavelength) of semiconductors, metals and even wide band gap materials available only as thin films; (ii) depth-profiles of interfaces, thin films and multilayer structures with almost atomic resolution; (iii) the composition for any layers (bulk, interface, or surface) that are composites or alloys; (iv) the microroughness of the surface layer; and (v) the true near-surface temperature of the samples in their preparation chamber in the case of semiconductors. Furthermore, it will be shown that the above results obtained by SE are reliable and trustworthy, by the excellent corroboration with the results of XTEM, RBS and AFM studies on the same multilayer structures. In real-time spectroscopic ellipsometry (RTSE), which has just been developed and perfected, most of the above capabilities of SE can be achieved again through analysis of data collected in a matter of a few seconds, and hence RTSE is now ready for use in real-time monitoring and control during the growth of multilayer structures, thin films, etc. Thus the full potentialities and capabilities of this non-destructive, non-perturbing and non-invasive technique are yet to be realized.
Immunization with an insulin peptide-MHC complex to prevent type 1 diabetes of NOD mice.

Background Mutating the insulin B:9–23 peptide prevents diabetes in NOD mice. Thus, the trimolecular complex of I-A-insulin B:9–23 peptide-TCR may be essential for the development of spontaneous diabetes. Pathogenic T cells recognize the B:9–23 peptide presented by I-A in what is termed register 3, with the B22 basic amino acid (arginine) of the peptide bound in pocket 9 of I-A. Our hypothesis is that immunization with an insulin B:12–22 peptide linked to I-A in register 3 (I-A-B:RE#3 complex) can induce specific antibodies to the complex, block pathogenic TCRs, and thus prevent diabetes. Methods We immunized young NOD mice with recombinant I-A-B:RE#3 protein, in which two amino acids of the peptide were mutated to fix the peptide in register 3, and investigated the induced antibodies targeted to the peptide in register 3. Results Specific antibodies targeting I-A-B:RE#3 but not I-A-HEL were identified in the sera of I-A-B:RE#3 immunized mice. The sera inhibited B:9–23-induced T-cell responses in vitro. I-A-B:RE#3 immunization delayed progression to diabetes (versus PBS, p = 0.0005), while immunization with I-A-HEL control complex did not. Conclusions Immunization with I-A-B:RE#3 complex significantly delays the development of insulin autoantibodies and the onset of diabetes in NOD mice, which is associated with the induction of I-A-B:RE#3 antibodies. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parental Influence on Inhalant Use

The purpose of this article is to examine the dynamics of the relationship between parents and their adolescent children and their association with lifetime and past-month inhalant usage. The population studied was seventh- through ninth-grade students in rural Idaho (N = 570). The authors found a small, but consistent, significant inverse correlation between parental bonding and monitoring of behavior and inhalant usage. There was also a significant positive correlation between verbally aggressive behavior in the family and inhalant use. The data imply that family interaction may play a significant role in the use of inhalants and that the family can play a major role in prevention.
The effect of food concentration on swimming patterns, feeding behavior, ingestion, assimilation, and respiration by Daphnia1

Abstruct Swimming patterns, fecging behaviors, and ingestion, filtering, assimilation, and respiration rates were measured for Daphnia mugnu in food concentrations from 0 to 10” Chlamydomonas reinhnrdi cells * cm-“, equivalent to O-20 mg C* liter-‘. A Helling type 2 functional response curve or an Ivlev model without a threshold appear to be biologically meaningful descriptions of Daphnia feeding response to different food concentrations. Daphnia has no feeding threshold or reduced filtering activity at low concentrations such as are predicted by optimal foraging models. Above the incipient limiting concentration, constant ingestion rates and an over-collection of food result in increased rejection rates. These behaviors may cause high respiratory rates and reduced net assimilation rates at the highest food concentration. Daphnia does not orient to or alter swimming patterns in response to algal patches.
Older Rural Nonsurvivors: Their Prediction and Terminal Care

This research reports on nonsurvivorship by comparing two groups of older rural adults: 138 survivors and 45 nonsurvivors from the third wave of a longitudinal study. They were part of a sample of 418 adults aged 65 and older, first interviewed in 1976. The purposes of these analyses were to examine (a) the predictors of nonsurvivorship to very old age, (b) the final health crises of rural nonsurvivors, and (c) the formal and informal supports addressing their terminal health needs. Average age at death was 83. Results showed that only minimal variance in nonsurvival to very old age could be predicted using standard demographic and psychological variables. The relative importance of predictors varied according to time of measurement (age). Terminal illnesses were similar in type to those of the general aging population. Final illnesses were usually multiple and lengthy, and deaths seldom occurred in the older rural adults' county of residence. Families usually cared for older members without the assistance of formal supports except for a physician, who usually lived out of the county or in the adjoining state. Implications for practitioners are discussed.
The role of cabazitaxel in the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer

For decades, cytotoxic therapy was considered ineffective for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Earlier therapies such as estramustine and mitoxantrone received regulatory approval based upon improvement in palliative endpoints. In 2004, docetaxel became the first treatment to demonstrate a significant survival benefit in patients with mCRPC based on two randomized phase III studies, TAX327 and SWOG 99-16. Cabazitaxel, a third-generation taxane, was chosen for clinical development based on its decreased affinity for the drug efflux pump, p-glycoprotein, which is a frequent cause of drug resistance in docetaxel-resistant preclinical models. In 2010, cabazitaxel was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration as the first therapy to show a survival benefit for the treatment of patients with docetaxel-refractory mCRPC. This review summarizes the existing literature on the use of cabazitaxel, focusing on its efficacy and safety in combination with prednisone in the treatment of mCRPC, as well as its role in an era of new therapeutic options.
Treatment and Outcomes of Infections by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus at an Ambulatory Clinic

Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) have become increasingly common. This study's objectives were to describe the clinical spectrum of MRSA in a community health center and to determine whether the use of specific antimicrobials correlated with increased probability of clinical resolution of SSTI. A retrospective chart review of 399 sequential cases of culture-confirmed S. aureus SSTI, including 227 cases of MRSA SSTI, among outpatients at Fenway Community Health (Boston, MA) from 1998 to 2005 was done. The proportion of S. aureus SSTI due to MRSA increased significantly from 1998 to 2005 (P < 0.0001). Resistance to clindamycin was common (48.2% of isolates). At the beginning of the study period, most patients with MRSA SSTI empirically treated with antibiotics received a beta-lactam, whereas by 2005, 76% received trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) (P < 0.0001). Initially, few MRSA isolates were sensitive to the empirical antibiotic, but 77% were susceptible by 2005 (P < 0.0001). A significantly higher percentage of patients with MRSA isolates had clinical resolution on the empirical antibiotic by 2005 (P = 0.037). Use of an empirical antibiotic to which the clinical isolate was sensitive was associated with increased odds of clinical resolution on empirical therapy (odds ratio = 5.91), controlling for incision and drainage and HIV status. MRSA now accounts for the majority of SSTI due to S. aureus at Fenway, and improved rates of clinical resolution on empirical antibiotic therapy have paralleled increasing use of empirical TMP-SMX for these infections. TMP-SMX appears to be an appropriate empirical antibiotic for suspected MRSA SSTI, especially where clindamycin resistance is common.
The ROMPER System: Responding to Object-Related Misconceptions using Perspective

As a user interacts with a database or expert system, s/he may reveal a misconception about the objects modeled by the system. This paper discusses the ROMPER system for responding to such misconceptions in a domain independent and context sensitive fashion. ROMPER reasons about possible sources of the misconception. It operates on a model of the user and generates a cooperative response based on this reasoning. The process is made context sensitive by augmenting the user model with a new notion of object perspective which highlights certain aspects of the user model due to previous discourse.
A specific cell surface antigen of Streptococcus gordonii is associated with bacterial hemagglutination and adhesion to alpha2-3-linked sialic acid-containing receptors

A Ca2+-independent lectin activity for alpha2-3-linked sialic acid-containing receptors is associated with Streptococcus gordonii DL1 (Challis) but not with a spontaneous mutant, strain D102, that specifically lacks hemagglutinating activity. Comparison of crossed-immunoelectrophoresis patterns of parent and mutant sonicated cell extracts identified a unique antigen (Hs antigen) in the parent cell extract that was purified by DEAE Sephacel column chromatography and by a wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) lectin affinity column. The purified antigen formed a single arc in crossed immunoelectrophoresis with anti-DL1 serum and migrated as a diffuse band above the 200-kDa marker in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Immunoelectron microscopy with specific anti-Hs antibody revealed labeling of structures in the fibrillar layer of strain DL1 and no labeling of fibrillar structures on strain D102. Rabbit anti-DL1 serum and anti-Hs Fab inhibited the hemagglutinating activity of strain DL1, and the inhibition was specifically neutralized by purified Hs antigen. Anti-Hs Fab did not inhibit the hemagglutinating activities of several heterologous S. gordonii strains; however, these bacteria were agglutinated by anti-Hs immunoglobulin G and also by WGA. In contrast, two S. gordonii strains that lacked hemagglutinating activity did not react with anti-Hs antibody or with WGA. These findings associate the sialic acid-binding lectin activity of S. gordonii DL1 with a specific fibrillar antigen, which is composed of protein and WGA reactive carbohydrate, and indicate that cross-reactive antigens occur on other strains of this species that possess hemagglutinating activity.
On Secrecy of Codebook-Based Transmission Beamforming under Receiver Limited Feedback

We investigate the secrecy performance of a codebook based transmission beamforming for a sensitive data link against passive eavesdropping. We characterize the secrecy outage probability of a communication link that is being eavesdropped. We consider a limited feedback scenario where the transmitter is using a predefined codebook known to both transmitter and receiver for beamforming, and analyze the secrecy outage probability of the link when it being eavesdropped. Our analysis also provides the secrecy outage probability of the beamforming transmission in the direction of the intended receiver. We characterize how the secrecy outage probability improves as the number of transmit antennas increases. We further analyze the effect of codebook design on secrecy enhancement and provide bounds on the secrecy outage probability of codebook beamforming.
Dynamic Resource Allocation via Clustered MC-CDMA in Multi-Service Ad-Hoc Networks: Achieving Low Interference Temperature

This work presents a novel resource allocation scheme for a multi-service (e.g., voice, video and data) wireless ad-hoc networks. The technique is established via clustered multicarrier code division multiple access (MC-CDMA) system. In clustered MC-CDMA, the available bandwidth is divided into the clusters of carriers, their MC-CDMA is applied within each cluster and frequency division multiple access (FDMA) is applied across clusters. Here, a master node allocates carrier clusters and their associated power to the nodes in order to minimize the interference temperature, with constraints on bit-error-rate and transmission rates for different classes of services. Sub-optimum algorithms are proposed for this constrained optimization problem and their impact on interference temperature in multi-service wireless networks is investigated. Simulation results confirm the potential of the proposed techniques to improve the interference temperature, which is mainly due to the flexibility in channel allocation via clustered MC-CDMA.
A Communication–Human Information Processing (C–HIP) approach to warning effectiveness in the workplace

Warnings are one of several hazard control methods used to protect employees and property against danger and loss. This article surveys a set of factors known to influence the effectiveness of workplace warnings. The description of empirical research is organized around a communication–human information processing (C–HIP) model. The model begins with a source entity attempting to relay a warning message through one or more media/sensory channels to one or more receivers. At the receiver, processing begins when attention is switched to the warning message and then maintained while information is extracted. Processing continues through the successive stages of comprehension, beliefs and attitudes, motivation, and ends with compliance behaviour. Any of these stages can be a bottleneck that causes processing to stop, diminishing the effectiveness of the warning. The factors that are influential at each stage are described. The C–HIP model provides a structure to systematically examine factors that can cause r...
High-performance poly-Si TFTs on plastic substrates using a nano-structured separation layer approach

We demonstrate a manufacturable, large-area separation approach for producing high-performance polycrystalline silicon thin-film transistors on flexible plastic substrates. The approach allows the use of high growth-temperature gate oxides and removes the need for hydrogenation. The process flow starts with the deposition of a nano-structured high surface-to-volume ratio film on a reuseable "mother" substrate. This film functions as a sacrificial release layer and is Si-based for process compatibility. After high-temperature TFT fabrication (up to 1100/spl deg/C) is carried to completion on the sacrificial film coated mother substrate, a thick plastic top layer film is applied, and the sacrificial layer is removed by chemical attack. By using this separation process, the temperature, smoothness, and mechanical limitations posed by plastic substrates are completely circumvented. Both excellent n-channel and p-channel TFTs on plastic have been produced. We report here on p-channel TFTs on separated plastic with a linear field effect (hole) mobility of 174 cm/sup 2//V/spl middot/s, on/off current ratio of >10/sup 8/ at V/sub ds/=-0.1 V, off current of <10/sup -11/ A//spl mu/m-channel-width at V/sub ds/=-0.1 V, sub-V/sub t/ swing of /spl sim/200 mV/dec, and threshold voltage of -1.1 V.
Failing to prevent birth defects caused by maternal diabetes mellitus.

s w w I w p c r We are failing to prevent birth defects caused by preexisting maternal diabetes mellitus! In this issue, Correa et al report strong case-control data that suggest that, among omen who took a vitamin that contained folic acid periconeptionally, those with preexisting diabetes mellitus are 6 times ore likely to have a baby with a congenital heart defect than omen without diabetes mellitus. For truncus arteriosus, the ncrease is 25-fold. For noncardiac birth defects, the risk is ncreased 3-fold. For holoprosencephaly, the increase is 9-fold. hese are simply enormous increases in risk. Something about aternal diabetes mellitus is responsible, and it is not being dequately addressed by the research, clinical, public health, nd political worlds. There is an urgent need to prevent these irth defects. If prevention were easy, we would have already accomplished it. Although the evidence from randomized, controlled trials is sparse, there is strong observational evidence that good glycemic control lowers the risk. There is a nice dose-response curve with HgbA1c. It is reasonable to assume that better preconception control of glycemia will prevent a significant proportion, if not all, of the excess birth defects among the children of women with preexisting diabetes mellitus. Because such control must precede conception, all women with diabetes mellitus who could become pregnant must be in control. Programs for all women of reproductive age are much more difficult to implement successfully than programs that can be implemented after conception, but they can be done. We have prevented the congenital rubella syndrome through routine immunization of boys and girls and folic acid–preventable spina bifida and anencephaly through mandatory fortification of enriched cereal grains, such as flour. The data in the article by Correa et al suggest that folic acid fortification has removed he excess risk of spina bifida and anencephaly among the chilren of women with preexisting diabetes mellitus but has done ittle, if anything, to reduce risk for other birth defects. Their
Multiple Roles for Nogo Receptor 1 in Visual System Plasticity

During the developmental critical period for visual plasticity, discordant vision alters the responsiveness of neurons in visual cortex. The subsequent closure of the critical period not only consolidates neural function but also limits recovery of acuity from preceding abnormal visual experience. Despite species-specific differences in circuitry of the visual system, these characteristics are conserved. The nogo-66 receptor 1 (ngr1) is one of only a small number of genes identified thus far that is essential to closing the critical period. Mice lacking a functional ngr1 gene retain developmental visual plasticity as adults and their visual acuity spontaneously improves after prolonged visual deprivation. Experiments employing conditional mouse genetics have revealed that ngr1 restricts plasticity within distinct circuits for ocular dominance and visual acuity. However, the mechanisms by which NgR1 limits plasticity have not been elucidated, in part because the subcellular localization and signal transduction of the protein are only partially understood. Here we explore potential mechanisms for NgR1 function in relation to manipulations that reactivate visual plasticity in adults and propose lines of investigation to address relevant gaps in knowledge.
Control Volume Finite Element Method with Multidimensional Edge Element Scharfetter-Gummel upwinding. Part 1. Formulation

We develop a new formulation of the Control Volume Finite Element Method (CVFEM) with a multidimensional Scharfetter-Gummel (SG) upwinding for the drift-diffusion equations. The formulation uses standard nodal elements for the concentrations and expands the flux in terms of the lowest-order Nedelec H(curl; {Omega})-compatible finite element basis. The SG formula is applied to the edges of the elements to express the Nedelec element degree of freedom on this edge in terms of the nodal degrees of freedom associated with the endpoints of the edge. The resulting upwind flux incorporates the upwind effects from all edges and is defined at the interior of the element. This allows for accurate evaluation of integrals on the boundaries of the control volumes for arbitrary quadrilateral elements. The new formulation admits efficient implementation through a standard loop over the elements in the mesh followed by loops over the element nodes (associated with control volume fractions in the element) and element edges (associated with flux degrees of freedom). The quantities required for the SG formula can be precomputed and stored for each edge in the mesh for additional efficiency gains. For clarity the details are presented for two-dimensional quadrilateral grids. Extension to other element shapes andmore » three dimensions is straightforward.« less
The role of L1 conceptual and linguistic knowledge and frequency in the acquisition of L2 metaphorical expressions

This study investigates how figurative language is processed by learners of a second language (L2). With an experiment testing L2 comprehension of figurative expressions in three categories, each combining shared and unshared first language (L1) and L2 lexical representations and conceptual representations in a different way, the study investigates the effects of L1 conceptual knowledge, L1 linguistic knowledge and L1 frequency. I predict that in cases where the L1 and L2 share similarities in terms of conceptual knowledge (e.g. ANGER IS FIRE) and metaphorical expressions (e.g. His eyes are burning with anger), learners will better comprehend the L2 figurative expressions than in cases where the L1 and L2 share no such similarities. I further predict that when L1 and L2 share similarities in both conceptual knowledge and metaphorical expression, L1 frequency will have a positive effect on L2 metaphorical comprehension. These hypotheses are tested by examining the comprehension of advanced-level L2 Korean ...
A multi-asset monte carlo simulation model for the valuation of variable annuities

A variable annuity is an insurance contract that contains financial guarantees. Due to the complexity of guarantees, there are no closed-form formulas to calculate the value of these guarantees. Insurance companies rely heavily on Monte Carlo simulation to calculate the value of the guarantees. However, almost all simulation software for variable annuity is proprietary, posing a substantial barrier to academic researchers who want to study the computational problems related to variable annuity. In this paper, we present a multi-asset Monte Carlo simulation model by using fund mappings and economic scenario generators. The simulation model is realistic in the sense that it reflects the current practice in industry. We also implement the simulation model in Java as open source software, which can be used by students and researchers to investigate the computational problems arising from the variable annuity area.
Etiology of postanesthetic and postsedation events on the inpatient ward: data from a rapid response team at a tertiary care children's hospital.

Summary Introduction The goal of this study was to identify the etiology of events and demographics of patients that experience complications requiring activation of the Rapid Response Team (RRT) during the first 24 h following anesthetic care. Methods We performed a retrospective review of the Quality Improvement database from the Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine at Nationwide Children's Hospital. The database was searched to identify those patients who had a RRT evaluation activated within 24 h of receiving anesthesia or procedural sedation. These patients' charts were reviewed to obtain demographic information, etiology of the RRT call, and outcomes. Results The study cohort included 106 RRT calls that were made over a 3-year period. Six patients were excluded from analysis due to incomplete datasets. One hundred patients remained for analysis including 60 males and 40 females. Patients ranged in age from 0.08 to 31.21 years (7.8 ± 7.7 years, median 5.3 years). Seventy-one patients were American Society of Anesthesiologists' (ASA) status 3 or 4 and 29 patients were ASA status 1 or 2. Five calls were made for patients who had undergone procedural sedation while the other 95 were on patients who received general anesthesia. The average time to the RRT call after the end of anesthetic care was 11.4 ± 6.6 h. Respiratory concern was the most common reason for RRT initiation, accounting for 71 of the 100 calls. Forty-nine patients had a recent respiratory illness, chronic respiratory-related disease, or history of preterm birth. Fifty patients (50%) were transferred to a higher level of care following the RRT consult. There was no significant difference between age, gender, ASA status, or etiology of the event for patients transferred vs those who were not. A significant difference was noted in the Pediatric Early Warning Score of patients transferred to a higher level of care in comparison to patients who remained on the floor (4 ± 2 vs 3 ± 2, P = 0.0097). Conclusion RRT calls were most common for respiratory concerns. High ASA status, general anesthesia administration, and the presence of acute or chronic conditions prior to anesthetic administration predispose a patient to perioperative complications resulting in the need for an RRT call.
Desire for Higher Education in First-Generation Hispanic College Students Enrolled in a Graduate Counseling Program: A Phenomenological Analysis

AbstractMotivation to seek higher education is rarely examined in Hispanic first-generation graduate students, those whose parents have not attended college, and there is less literature examining those whose desire for education extends to a master’s degree in counseling. The purpose of this study was to conduct a phenomenological examination of the desire to attend college among first-generation Hispanic students enrolled in a counselor education program. One-hour taped interviews were conducted with three volunteer participants enrolled in a graduate counseling program at a Texas university designated as a Hispanic-serving institution. Meaning units and constituents were extracted, and a general structure was developed using the Descriptive Phenomenological Method (Giorgi, 1985). The phenomenological analysis resulted in one structure that identifies the influence of respected others; resilience and self-efficacy; self-denial; a need for distinction and career satisfaction; spirituality; altruism; and a view of commitment to a counseling degree as a nonlinear process.
Abstract 4421: Curucmin suppresses myeloid-derived suppressor cells and inhibits gastric cancer growth

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are accumulated in the spleen and tumor and contribute to tumor growth, angiogenesis and progression. In this study, we examined the effects of curcumin, a compound from turmeric, on MDSCs and gastric cancer growth in vivo. BABL/C nude mice injected subcutaneously with gastric cancer MKN-45 cells were fed with control diet or 2% curcumin diet or received curucmin through daily i.p. injection at 50mg/kg body weight. Cell apoptosis were determined by Flow cytometer and TUNEL staining. Protein expressions were determined by Western Blot and Immunohistochemistry staining. The frequencies of myeloid-derived suppress cells in the mice were analyzed by Flow cytometer. Cytokines were determined by ELISA. Tumors growth was significantly inhibited by both 2% curucumin diet and curcumin i.p. injection treatment. The frequencies of MDSCs in the spleen, blood and tumor tissues were significantly decreased in the tumor-bearing mice after a 5-days or a 4-weeks treatment with curcumin (in diet or by i.p. injection) compared to control treatment. MDSCs isolated from the spleen of curcumin-treated mice secreted lower levels of IL-6, compared to that from untreated mice. The treatment of MDSCs isolated from the spleen of the untreated tumor-bearing mice with curcumin had lower levels of IL-6, compared to that of control mice. Furthermore, curcumin treatment significantly reduced IL-6 level secreted by IL-1beta-induced MDSCs. Curucmin treatment also significantly induced apoptosis of gastric cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Our results demonstrate for the first time that cucumin could inhibit MDSCs mobilization and activation and that curcumin inhibits gastric cancer partly through suppressing MDSCs mobilization and activation. MDSCs may be a new target of cucumin for gastric cancer therapy and prevention. (The project was supported by NIH grant R21CA149865 (Tu SP)). Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4421. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-4421
Sck is expressed in endothelial cells and participates in vascular endothelial growth factor-induced signaling.

Sck, a member of the Shc family of cell signaling proteins, has only been studied in neuronal cells, though previous studies have demonstrated its expression in tissues other than brain. Using RT–PCR and RNase protection assays, we detected Sck mRNA expression in endothelial cells, and Sck protein was detected by Western blotting using polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies targeting the Sck CH1 domain. Immunohistochemistry protocols demonstrate that Sck is expressed in KDR and PECAM positive cells found in the mouse retina, mouse heart and human umbilical chord. Treatment of human umbilical vein endothelial (HUVE) cells with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) leads to the recruitment of Sck to the KDR VEGF receptor and an enhanced Sck tyrosine phosphorylation. Sck is recruited to KDR tyrosine 1175, as co-immunoprecipitation of KDR and Sck is not observed in VEGF-treated porcine aortic endothelial cells expressing a receptor mutated at this autophosphorylation site. The Sck and Shc SH2 domains, and not the PTB domain, mediates its interactions with KDR, as recombinant Sck SH2 domain binds to a tyrosine phosphorylated KDR 1175-derived synthetic peptide, but not to a peptide synthesized without tyrosine phosphate. Recombinant PLCγ SH2 domain also interacts with the phosphotyrosine 1175 containing peptide. VEGF-induced MAPK activation is dependent upon PLCγ activity, and chimeric proteins consisting of the Shc or Sck SH2 domains fused with a cellular internalization sequence attenuated this activation. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Sck is expressed in vascular endothelial cells, and participates in VEGF-induced signal transduction.
Race, Space, and the Problem of Guatemala in Miguel Ángel Asturias’s Early Work

This article provides a reading of Miguel Angel Asturias (1899–1974), widely regarded as one of the most important writers of the twentieth century. We focus on his first substantial literary work, Leyendas de Guatemala [Legends of Guatemala] (Asturias [1930] 1995)—a text considered by some critics as the first instance of “magic realism”—to consider the problem of the literary representation of race and space. Asturias’s early works, we contend, are especially fruitful sites for exploring the complex interrelations of space, race, nation, and territory. Reading his Leyendas, which aesthetically represent the origins of Guatemala, we analyze the failure of his project. This is a productive failure, illuminating Asturias’s commitment to addressing the race–space couplet and reaffirming its tragic relevance for Guatemala, and our world, today. For, we conclude, the problem is not Asturias, but the liberal nation form itself.
Selecting Appropriate Sales Quota Plan Structures and Quota-Setting Procedures

The typical objective of a sales quota-bonus plan (QBP) is to enhance salespeople's performance by granting them a bonus when they reach a prespecified performance level (a sales quota), set higher than the performance level they would achieve otherwise. Even though QBPs are short-term plans, they have long-run profit impacts through their effects on a sales force morale and feelings of equity (or inequity). This is why devising sales quota plans has always been a difficult task. This paper's objective is to discuss how different QBP structures and related quota setting procedures are likely to be selected by management, depending on such situational characteristics as management's objectives, constraints, and available (or collectible) information.
Periprocedural Management of Antithrombotic Agents

Management of antithrombotic agents at the time of endoscopy involves a balancing act between the risk of thromboembolic events from interruption of treatment and that of procedure-related bleeding events from continuation of treatment. In general, patients who undergo procedures with low bleeding risk can continue their antithrombotic medications, regardless of the risk for thromboembolism. Patients at low risk for thromboembolism who undergo procedures with higher bleeding risk can temporarily discontinue antithrombotic medications and be maintained in the subtherapeutic range in the periprocedural period. Patients at moderate-to-high risk for thromboembolic events who are undergoing procedures with high bleeding risk are a challenge to manage. Providers must be familiar with the bleeding risks of particular procedures, identify those at highest risk for thromboembolism, recognize when bridging therapy is indicated, and know when to interrupt and reinitiate antithrombotic therapy.
Agyeya's Unfinished Revolution: Sexual and Social Freedom in Shekhar: Ek Jivani

ABSTRACTSachchidananda Hiranand Vatsyayan, also known as ‘Agyeya’, famously penned his three-volume modernist Hindi novel, Shekhar: Ek Jivani (Shekhar: A Life) while he was imprisoned by the British during 1930–33 for his participation in revolutionary terrorist activities. The novel, however, was incompletely published: only the first two volumes were released (in 1941 and 1944, respectively). The incompleteness of Agyeya's Shekhar manifests both writerly dissatisfaction and the transformation of the political landscape in newly independent India. Shekhar, a story of the life of a revolutionary, becomes impossible once revolution is undesired and impossible. The form of the novel, its revolutionary ambition and the construction of a writerly sensibility are all exhausted in the same moment. While revolutionary ambition is normally associated in Hindi with the realism of the All India Progressive Writers Movement (AIPWA), Agyeya's modernism was born out of aesthetic debates that he had with the poets affi...
A prediction-based flow control policy for ISDN token rings

A prediction-based policy is proposed for ISDN (integrated-services digital network) token rings, in which data stations attempt to predict times at which they may utilize extra bandwidth not needed by the real-time stations. It is shown that while prediction is not very feasible in a large class of cases, there are some cases in which it can be quite effective. >
Attosecond nanoscale physics of solids in strong ultrafast optical fields(Conference Presentation)

We present our latest results for a new class of phenomena in condensed matter nanooptics when a strong optical field ~1-3 V/A changes a solid within optical cycle [1-7]. Such a pulse drives ampere-scale currents in dielectrics and adiabatically controls their properties, including optical absorption and reflection, extreme UV absorption, and generation of high harmonics [8] in a non-perturbative manner on a 100-as temporal scale. Applied to a metal, such a pulse causes an instantaneous and, potentially, reversible change from the metallic to semimetallic properties. We will also discuss our latest theoretical results on graphene that in a strong ultrashort pulse field exhibits unique behavior [9, 10]. New phenomena are predicted for buckled two-dimensional solids, silicene and germanine [11]. These are fastest phenomena in optics unfolding within half period of light. They offer potential for petahertz-bandwidth signal processing, generation of high harmonics on a nanometer spatial scale, etc. References 1. M. Durach, A. Rusina, M. F. Kling, and M. I. Stockman, Metallization of Nanofilms in Strong Adiabatic Electric Fields, Phys. Rev. Lett. 105, 086803-1-4 (2010). 2. M. Durach, A. Rusina, M. F. Kling, and M. I. Stockman, Predicted Ultrafast Dynamic Metallization of Dielectric Nanofilms by Strong Single-Cycle Optical Fields, Phys. Rev. Lett. 107, 086602-1-5 (2011). 3. A. Schiffrin, T. Paasch-Colberg, N. Karpowicz, V. Apalkov, D. Gerster, S. Muhlbrandt, M. Korbman, J. Reichert, M. Schultze, S. Holzner, J. V. Barth, R. Kienberger, R. Ernstorfer, V. S. Yakovlev, M. I. Stockman, and F. Krausz, Optical-Field-Induced Current in Dielectrics, Nature 493, 70-74 (2013). 4. M. Schultze, E. M. Bothschafter, A. Sommer, S. Holzner, W. Schweinberger, M. Fiess, M. Hofstetter, R. Kienberger, V. Apalkov, V. S. Yakovlev, M. I. Stockman, and F. Krausz, Controlling Dielectrics with the Electric Field of Light, Nature 493, 75-78 (2013). 5. V. Apalkov and M. I. Stockman, Metal Nanofilm in Strong Ultrafast Optical Fields, Phys. Rev. B 88, 245438-1-7 (2013). 6. V. Apalkov and M. I. Stockman, Theory of Dielectric Nanofilms in Strong Ultrafast Optical Fields, Phys. Rev. B 86, 165118-1-13 (2012). 7. F. Krausz and M. I. Stockman, Attosecond Metrology: From Electron Capture to Future Signal Processing, Nat. Phot. 8, 205-213 (2014). 8. T. Higuchi, M. I. Stockman, and P. Hommelhoff, Strong-Field Perspective on High-Harmonic Radiation from Bulk Solids, Phys. Rev. Lett. 113, 213901-1-5 (2014). 9. H. K. Kelardeh, V. Apalkov, and M. I. Stockman, Wannier-Stark States of Graphene in Strong Electric Field, Phys. Rev. B 90, 085313-1-11 (2014). 10. H. K. Kelardeh, V. Apalkov, and M. I. Stockman, Graphene in Ultrafast and Superstrong Laser Fields, Phys. Rev. B 91, 0454391-8 (2015). 11. H. K. Kelardeh, V. Apalkov, and M. I. Stockman, Ultrafast Field Control of Symmetry, Reciprocity, and Reversibility in Buckled Graphene-Like Materials, Phys. Rev. B 92, 045413-1-9 (2015).
Effect of surface oxygen functionalities on capacitance of activated carbon in non-aqueous electrolyte

Electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) are composed of two activated carbon (AC) electrodes and an electrolyte/separator, in which the ACs contain numbers of surface oxygen functionalities (SOFs). In this work, the effect of SOFs on the EDLC’s capacitance in non-aqueous electrolytes is studied by using a 1.0 m (molality) LiPF6 3:7 (wt.) ethylene carbonate-ethyl methyl carbonate electrolyte and a commercial activated carbon. Results show that the SOFs on one hand contribute to Faradic pseudocapacitance, and on the other hand adversely reduce the EDLC’s performances, including the initial reversibility, coulombic efficiency, and capacitance retention. It is found that the AC behaves significantly different in the Li/AC half cells and in the AC/AC full cells and that the SOF’s pseudocapacitance increases with widening the EDLC’s operating voltage. The latter is attributed to the large-voltage hysteresis of the redox of SOFs. In this paper, the AC’s unique behaviors in Li salt electrolyte are presented, and a possible mechanism for the observed behaviors is proposed.
Single-pixel mm-wave imaging using 8-bits metamaterial-based compressive reflector antenna

This paper presents a single-pixel millimeter-wave (mm-wave) imaging system, capable of performing spectral coding by using a Compressive Reflector Antenna (CRA). The CRA is designed by coating the surface of a parabolic reflector with 8-bits metamaterial absorbers (MMAs). By specially designing the codes, the mutual information between successive measurements is reduced, leading to an enhanced sensing capacity. The imaging performance of the proposed mm-wave imaging system is evaluated using synthetic data. Preliminary results show that the proposed 8-bits metamaterial-based CRA system outperforms the equivalent one without MMAs in terms of imaging quality and sensing capacity.
Convolutional Neural Network for Histopathological Analysis of Osteosarcoma

Abstract Pathologists often deal with high complexity and sometimes disagreement over osteosarcoma tumor classification due to cellular heterogeneity in the dataset. Segmentation and classification of histology tissue in H&E stained tumor image datasets is a challenging task because of intra-class variations, inter-class similarity, crowded context, and noisy data. In recent years, deep learning approaches have led to encouraging results in breast cancer and prostate cancer analysis. In this article, we propose convolutional neural network (CNN) as a tool to improve efficiency and accuracy of osteosarcoma tumor classification into tumor classes (viable tumor, necrosis) versus nontumor. The proposed CNN architecture contains eight learned layers: three sets of stacked two convolutional layers interspersed with max pooling layers for feature extraction and two fully connected layers with data augmentation strategies to boost performance. The use of a neural network results in higher accuracy of average 92% ...
Emissions Inventory Estimation Improvements using a Four-Dimensional Data Assimilation Method for Photochemical Air Quality Modeling

Emissions inventories used in typical three-dimensional air quality model applications have significant uncertainties, and in many cases suffer major deficiencies in correctly approximating real source strengths and compositions. A four-dimensional data assimilation method for air quality models was used to suggest emission correction factors to the base case inventory used in modeling Atlanta’s August 9–10, 1992 ozone episode. Total VOC mass emissions from anthropogenic sources in the base case inventory are suspect of being underestimated by about a factor of two, while area source (stationary and mobile source combined) anthropogenic NOx emissions appear to be well estimated in the base case inventory. Point source NOx was estimated to be underpredicted by about 50 to 60%. Finally, biogenic VOC emission corrections were less that 10%. Limitations in the procedure due to a poorly resolved observations field were evident while trying to compute correction factors for NOx from stationary and mobile sources (separately). Corrections for mobile-source NOx were more certain than for area-source due to the concentration of nitrogen-containing species measurements around the city’s downtown area, precisely where the mobile sources are more abundant. Further analysis of the VOC emissions indicates that the speciation profiles used to partition the total anthropogenic VOC mass need to be revised. The AQM-FDDA approach provides not only information of the strength, uncertainty and bias of the base case emissions inventory, but also provides revised information for source contribution analyses and control strategies design. Here it was demonstrated that the ozone response toa similar mass reduction of emissions is different if the base case or corrected inventory is used. However, on a relative scale, VOCs reactivities are very similar no matter what inventory is used.
Optical 2D coherent spectroscopy of valley dynamics in monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide

Atomically thin layers of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have unique electronic and optical properties, offering the possibility of novel applications in electronics, optoelectronics and valleytronics. These applications require a fundamental understanding of the valley dynamics involving the carrier radiative and non-radiative recombination, valley polarization, and valley coherence. We will present our study of valley dynamics in monolayer TMD by using optical two-dimensional coherent spectroscopy (2DCS). Compared to conventional one-dimensional spectroscopic techniques, optical 2DCS has many advantages such as separating homogeneous and inhomogeneous linewidths, isolating relaxation pathways, detecting valley coherence and measuring coherence dephasing time. In rephasing 2D spectra, homogeneous and inhomogeneous linewidths are associated with line shape in the cross-diagonal and diagonal directions, respectively. The homogeneous linewidth can be extracted from a cross-diagonal fit to give the coherence dephasing time. The measurement is repeated with various excitation intensities and sample temperatures to extract the intrinsic dephasing time at zero power and temperature. By using various combinations of excitation pulse helicities, our experiment can selectively excite and detect a particular valley population and coherence. This allows to isolate and measure valley exchange and coherence between the two valleys.
Load Rating a Prestressed Concrete Double T-Beam Bridge Without Plans by Field Testing

Bridges with no design plans are an issue in New Mexico because of the many that exist throughout the state. Conventional load rating techniques cannot be used because these bridges have limited or no design documentation. This lack of information has created uncertainties regarding the load-carrying capacity of these structures. Only a few states have formal procedures on how these particular bridges should be load rated. A project was conducted for the New Mexico Department of Transportation to develop a procedure for load rating bridges without plans, including prestressed concrete bridges. In accordance with the AASHTO Manual for Bridge Evaluation, a prestressed concrete double T-beam bridge was evaluated with advanced analyses and experimental methods (including load testing and nondestructive material evaluation techniques). A four-step load rating procedure was implemented that included estimating the prestressing steel by Magnel diagrams, verifying the estimate with a rebar scanner, testing the br...