cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chemical and biological sensing through optical resonances in microcavities

A microdroplet or a latex microsphere often acts as an optical cavity that supports Morphology Dependent Resonances (MDRs) at wavelengths where the droplet circumference is an integer multiple of the emission wavelength. Enhanced radiative energy transfer through these optical resonances can also be utilized as a transduction mechanism for chemical and biological sensing. Enhancement in radiative energy transfer is observed when a donor/acceptor pair is present in the resonant medium of a microcavity. Here, we demonstrate avidin-biotin binding and its detection through a FRET pair as a potential application for ultra-sensitive detection for fluoroimmunoassays. The binding interaction between the biotinylated fluorescent beads (donor) and streptavidin-Alexa Fluor 555 (acceptor) conjugate was used to observe the energy transfer between the dye pairs. Strong coupling of acceptor emission into optical resonances shows that the energy transfer is efficiently mediated through these resonances.
Modification of endothelial cell functions by Hantaan virus infection: prolonged hyper-permeability induced by TNF-alpha of hantaan virus-infected endothelial cell monolayers

Serious vascular leakage is central to the pathogenesis of hantavirus infections. However, there is no evidence suggesting the hantavirus infection of endothelial cells directly causes obvious cell damage or morphological alteration either in vivo or in vitro. In this study, we examined whether Hantaan virus (HTNV) infection modifies the barrier function of endothelial cell monolayers upon the exposure to pro-inflammatory cytokines. Low levels (1 ng/ml) of tumor necrosis factor-alpha initially increased the permeability in both HTNV-infected and uninfected monolayers similarly. Thereafter, however, these monolayers showed significant difference. The HTNV-infected monolayers remained irreversibly hyper-permeable during the experimental period up to 4 days, while the uninfected monolayers completely recovered the barrier function. The prolonged hyper-permeability of HTNV-infected monolayers was not associated with cell death or gap formation in the monolayers, and was independent from their nitric oxide or prostaglandin production. These results are the first evidence that hantavirus infection modifies barrier function of endothelial cell monolayers and suggest that HTNV-infection of endothelial cells may contribute to the increased vascular leakage through the prolonged response to cytokines.
INFORMATION STRUCTURE AND SENTENCE FORM: TOPIC, FOCUS, AND THE MENTAL REPRESENTATIONS OF DISCOURSE REFERENTS.Knud Lambrecht. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1994. Pp. xvi + 388. $54.95 cloth.

When I saw that this book was a comprehensive study of the relationships across discourse, grammar, and prosody, my spirits sagged. “Oh, no,” I thought. “Not this story again.” But 20 pages into the book I realized that Lambrecht had taken a new and sobering approach to the subject, tackling a very hard subject and giving convincing answers with clear data.
A Theory of Flexoelectric Membranes and Effective Properties of Heterogeneous Membranes

Recent developments in flexoelectricity, especially in nanostructures, have lead to several interesting notions such as piezoelectric materials without using piezoelectric materials and enhanced energy harvesting at the nanoscale, among others. In the biological context also, membrane flexoelectricity has been hypothesized to play an important role, e.g., biological mechanotransduction and hearing mechanisms, among others. In this paper, we consider a heterogeneous flexoelectric membrane and derive the homogenized or renormalized flexoelectric, dielectric, and elastic response, therefore, relating the corresponding effective electromechanical properties to its microstructural details. Our work allows design of a microstructure to tailor flexoelectric response, and an illustrative example is given for biological membranes. [DOI: 10.1115/1.4023978]
The moral geography of home care.

One result of the historical division of labor between nurses and physicians is that nurses became the eyes and ears of the physician, extending their perceptual capabilities across space and time. This “gaze of medicine” has evolved with the rise of technology, hospitals, and the medical profession
Scanning electrochemical microscopy measurements of photopolymerized poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels

Abstract Scanning electrochemical microscopy has been used to examine the molecular transport properties of photopolymerized poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels having different mesh sizes. Both the molecular weight (508 Da or 3000 Da) of the PEG diacrylate macromer and its weight percent (20 wt%, 40 wt%, or 60 wt%) in solution prior to photopolymerization were varied. Mesh size was estimated from equilibrium swelling measurements and a thermodynamic model. Estimated mesh sizes ranged from ca. 10 A for 60 wt% PEG 508 gels to ca. 100 A for 20 wt% PEG 3000 gels. The electrochemically active diffusing species, ferrocenemethanol, was detected via oxidation at a platinum microelectrode. For a given hydrogel, multiple approach curves showed a consistent relationship between current and distance. Electrochemically estimated diffusivities followed the same trend as predictions based on mesh size and ranged from 25% to 80% of the diffusivity in aqueous solution. As a proof of concept, scanning electrochemical microscopy was successfully used to map the topography of hydrogels with complex architecture, which are being designed as cell scaffolds.
The preparation of nano-clay/polypropylene composite materials with improved properties using supercritical carbon dioxide and a sequential mixing technique

Abstract A semi-continuous process using scCO2 is reported for processing polymer–clay composites with high clay loading (i.e. 10 wt %) by reducing the collapse of the exfoliated clays. Two major modifications are involved in the new procedure: exfoliating the nano-clay directly into the hopper filed with pellets followed by processing the composite immediately and sequentially mixing the clay into the melt. This latter approach helped to minimize the clay collapse when processing the composites with high clay loadings. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) results are provided to investigate the effect of sequential mixing on reducing the clay collapse in the nanocomposite. Surface modified montmorillonite (MMT) nano-clay/polypropylene (PP) composite at 10 wt % nano-clay with improved clay dispersion was obtained with increased modulus and tensile strength of 63 % and 16%, respectively, compared to the pure PP matrix.
Optical Saturable Absorption in Gold Nanoparticles

In this work, we present the experimental study of the nonlinear absorption of gold nanospheres and nanorods in aqueous suspension, using picosecond white-light supercontinuum open-aperture Z-scan. We demonstrate a saturable absorption effect in all particle suspensions at low-pulse energy. In the high-pulse energy regime, the apparent reverse-saturable absorption, observed in gold nanorods, was determined to be induced by photodegradation. Using the Lorentzian deconvolution method for the absorption spectra, we explain the variations on nonlinear optical effects and prove that saturable absorption only occurs within the plasmonic bands.
Goal-directed semantic tutor

An efficient Pascal semantic tutoring system is being built that aims at detecting and correcting semantic errors in Pascal programs after programs have been successfully compiled. In order to determine that an input program is correct (more precisely, the program seems to be correct), we attempt to compare the program against certain properties deemed necessary for a correct program. Basic approaches taken include: A problem description which an input program is intended to solve is converted to several properties called, goals, all of which a correct input program must satisfy. From each goal, plans are established which become the conditioin parts of production rules. The action parts of production rules contain certain effects that reflect consequences of goals so far satisfied by the input test program.The input test program is converted to an equivalent LISP expression that preserves the program semantic with such auxiliary words as BEGIN, END, DO, TO, ELSE, THEN eliminated. The resulting expression is more suitable for comparison against aforementioned plans.Pattern symbols and pattern variables are used to facilitate more flexible and powerful pattern matching. In addition, association lists are used to keep track of variables that are actually used in the input test program.
Mn (III) tetrakis (4-benzoic acid) porphyrin scavenges reactive species, reduces oxidative stress, and improves functional recovery after experimental spinal cord injury in rats: comparison with methylprednisolone

Substantial experimental evidence supports that reactive species mediate secondary damage after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) by inducing oxidative stress. Removal of reactive species may reduce secondary damage following SCI. This study explored the effectiveness of a catalytic antioxidant - Mn (III) tetrakis (4-benzoic acid) porphyrin (MnTBAP) - in removing reactive oxygen species (ROS), reducing oxidative stress, and improving functional recovery in vivo in a rat impact SCI model. The efficiency of MnTBAP was also compared with that of methylprednisolone – the only drug used clinically in treating acute SCI. In vivo measurements of time courses of ROS production by microdialysis and microcannula sampling in MnTBAP, methylprednisolone, and saline (as vehicle control)-treated SCI rats showed that both agents significantly reduced the production of hydrogen peroxide, but only MnTBAP significantly reduced superoxide elevation after SCI. In vitro experiments further demonstrated that MnTBAP scavenged both of the preceding ROS, whereas methylprednisolone had no effect on either. By counting the immuno-positive neurons in the spinal cord sections immunohistochemically stained with anti-nitrotyrosine and anti-4-hydroxy-nonenal antibodies as the markers of protein nitration and membrane lipid peroxidation, we demonstrated that MnTBAP significantly reduced the numbers of 4-hydroxy-nonenal-positive and nitrotyrosine-positive neurons in the sections at 1.55 to 2.55 mm and 1.1 to 3.1 mm, respectively, rostral to the injury epicenter compared to the vehicle-treated animals. By behavioral tests (open field and inclined plane tests), we demonstrated that at 4 hours post-SCI treatment with MnTBAP and the standard methylprednisolone regimen both significantly increased test scores compared to those produced by vehicle treatment. However, the outcomes for MnTBAP-treated rats were significantly better than those for methylprednisolone-treated animals. This study demonstrated for the first time in vivo and in vitro that MnTBAP significantly reduced the levels of SCI-elevated ROS and that MnTBAP is superior to methylprednisolone in removing ROS. Removal of ROS by MnTBAP significantly reduced protein nitration and membrane lipid peroxidation in neurons. MnTBAP more effectively reduced neurological deficits than did methylprednisolone after SCI - the first most important criterion for assessing SCI treatments. These results support the therapeutic potential of MnTBAP in treating SCI.
On the number of active nodes in a multicomputer system

In this article we develop probabilistic algorithms for estimating the number of active nodes in a multicomputer system which consists of independent computers that are interconnected by a communication network. The algorithms are based on routine exchange of messages among the nodes of the multicomputer, using random routing. We show that each active node can find an ϵ-estimate of the fraction λ of active nodes in the system in time that depends only on ϵ and λ. The underlying approach can be used for finding various global properties of distributed systems with decentralized control.
Are All Theories Equally Good? A Dialogue

This essay is written as a dialogue between a relativist and his critic. It does not focus on all species of relativism (e.g., I do not directly address here either ontological relativism, cultural relativism or moral relativism), but specifically on what might be called epistemic or cognitive relativism. I understand that view to amount to the claim that we are never warrantedly in a position to assert that any theory is objectively superior to another, or that the evidence and arguments in favor of one theory are stronger than those favoring any other. Although the form of relativism I am describing is perhaps most closely associated with Thomas Kuhn1 and Paul Feyerabend2 among philosophers of science, closely-related versions of it can be found in the writings of Mary Hesse,3 Willard Quine, Richard Rorty, Nelson Goodman,4 Gerald Doppelt,5 and sundry sociologists of knowledge.6 The dialogue takes literary license in imaginatively elaborating some of the argumentative details of the relativist’s position (in many cases, the relativists offer sloganistic hand-waving where argumentative fine-structure is called for). But I believe that all the major argument-types which I attribute to the relativist can be found in the writings of these authors.
The Effect of Searching Versus Surfing on Cognitive and Emotional Responses to Online News

A mixed-design experiment was conducted to explore differences between searching and surfing on cognitive and emotional responses to online news. Ninety-two participants read three unpleasant news stories from a website. Half of the participants acquired their stories by searching, meaning they had a previous information need in mind. The other half of the participants acquired their stories by surfing, with no previous information need in mind. Heart rate, skin conductance, and corrugator activation were collected as measures of resource allocation, motivational activation, and unpleasantness, respectively, while participants read each story. Self-report valence and recognition accuracy were also measured. Stories acquired by searching elicited greater heart rate acceleration, skin conductance level, and corrugator activation during reading. These stories were rated as more unpleasant, and their details were recognized more accurately than similar stories that were acquired by surfing. Implications of these results for understanding how people process online media are discussed.
National Survey of Emergency Department Alcohol Screening and Intervention Practices

Study objective We describe current alcohol screening and brief intervention practices in emergency departments (EDs) at Level I and Level II trauma centers and characterize ED directors' attitudes and perceived barriers associated with these practices among injured patients in the ED. Methods ED directors at Level I and Level II trauma centers were surveyed about current alcohol screening and intervention practices in the ED, as well as knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers to these practices. Results Nearly half (46.0%) of ED directors surveyed responded. The majority (64.5%) reported using a serum alcohol level to routinely screen for unhealthy alcohol use; only 23.6% routinely use standardized instruments. Sixty-five percent of ED directors support screening and 70% support intervention among injured ED patients. Only 15% reported having formal screening and intervention policies in their ED, and 9% reported offering brief alcohol intervention by trained personnel. The most commonly perceived barriers to implementation are provider time (83%) and financial resources (55%). Of injured patients identified as exhibiting alcohol misuse, few (12%) receive brief intervention conducted by trained personnel. Conclusion Current alcohol screening and brief intervention practices are lagging behind national guidelines. Although the majority of ED directors support the idea of alcohol screening and intervention, these beliefs have not yet been translated to routine clinical care.
Localized failure of fibre-reinforced elastic–plastic materials subjected to plane strain loading

We consider discontinuous bifurcations as the indicator of a localized failure for a class of composites that are characterized by elastic fibres reinforcing an elastic–plastic matrix. A macroscopic tangent stiffness tensor for the fibre-reinforced composite is developed by consistently homogenizing the contribution of fibres in a spherical representative volume element. Analytical solutions are derived for the critical hardening modulus and corresponding bifurcation directions for the case of plane strain loading. Properties of the solutions are further illustrated on the example of the non-associated Drucker–Prager model at onset of yielding. Results show that presence of fibres decreases the critical hardening modulus, thus inhibiting the onset of strain localization. The rate of decrease in the critical hardening modulus is the highest for pure shear, followed by uniaxial tension, uniaxial compression, biaxial tension and biaxial compression. The main fibre parameters that control the onset of strain localization are their volumetric content and their stiffness modulus whereby very stiff fibres can produce the most significant decrease in the critical hardening modulus, especially for the state of biaxial tension. The critical hardening modulus for the non-associated Drucker–Prager model exhibits a full range of localization modes including compaction bands, dilation bands, and transition in the form of shear bands regardless of the presence of fibres. Presence of fibres affects bifurcation directions, except in the case when Poisson's ratio of the matrix is equal to 0.25. The results demonstrate stabilizing effects of fibres by which they provide the control against the onset of strain localization. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Developing Expertise in Coaching: Learning from the Legends.

(1997). Developing Expertise in Coaching: Learning from the Legends. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance: Vol. 68, No. 3, pp. 37-41.
Can saliva be used for therapeutic drug monitoring of protease inhibitors in HIV-infected children?

Purpose HIV-infected children may become a target category for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of antiretroviral therapy (ART) due to the unpredictability of plasma concentrations. Studies suggest that saliva could be used instead of blood for TDM. This has distinct advantages in pediatrics as saliva sampling is painless and prevents blood loss. The purpose of this study was to determine the total concentrations of lopinavir and ritonavir in plasma of children with HIV infection and compare them with the total saliva concentration. Methods 15 pediatric patients (median age 8.9 years) receiving combination ART were enrolled. Unbound lopinavir and ritonavir were separated by ultrafiltration. The drug serum and saliva concentrations were determined by a tandem-mass spectrometric method using Sciex APT-2000. Routine statistical methods were used to examine the relation between total drug plasma and saliva concentrations. Results The relation between total saliva and serum concentrations of lopinavir and ritonavir were highly significant with r values of 0.991 for ritonavir (RittotalSal = 0.043×RittotalPl+108.7, p<0.001) and 0.993 for lopinavir (LoptotalSal = 0.019×LoptotalPl-59.26, p<0.0001). Conclusion This pilot study demonstrated a significant linear correlation between total saliva and serum concentrations of lopinavir and ritonavir. The measurement of concentrations of these drugs in saliva may be useful for application of TDM of PIs in pediatric patients. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2004) 75, P73–P73; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2003.11.275
Anticoagulation in the Setting of Epidural or Spinal Anesthesia/Analgesia

Introduction: The focus of this chapter is on the word “analgesia,” as used in the title. Although the traditional role of the anesthesiologist is to provide anesthesia, or total pain relief, for surgical procedures in the operating room, it is no longer possible to be considered a “compleat” anesthesiologist by ending patient care at the time that the surgical patient is turned over to the recovery room nurse. There is a growing specialty and societal expectation that the anesthesiologist will smooth the pathway for recovery by using specific drugs and techniques to control postoperative pain. Usually the postoperative period includes a period of 1 to 5 days. Why has the treatment of postoperative pain become such an issue? Can postoperative pain be effectively controlled in a more cost-effective manner than through the use of parenteral narcotics? In reality, narcotic drugs are not a cheap or effective approach. For example, any patient or nurse who has experienced post-thoracotomy pain control via the epidural route vs parenteral injections will testify to a preference for the epidural.1,2 When pain treatment is effective, there are multiple physiologic and economic spin-offs, such as better wound healing, decreased pulmonary infection rates, improved gastrointestinal function, shortened hospitalization time, and considerable savings of health care dollars.3-7
Compressed-Sided Turkey Eggs

Abstract A compressed-sided (CS) egg is formed when a membraneous egg makes contact with a hard-shelled egg in the uterus. The frequency of such eggs was .06 and 2.20% from floor- and cage-housed turkey hens, respectively. Among the caged hens, 59% of an egg-type and 28% of a meat-type strain laid at least one CS egg. Poult production from incubation of CS eggs was 19%; 28% of CS eggs with specific gravities of 1.070 to 1.090 and laid during the 3rd through 12th wk of production hatched. Eggs preceding CS eggs by less than 24 h had extra shell material; poults hatched from 45% of these eggs. Normal eggs from the caged turkeys and their half-sisters on the floor produced 63 and 75% poults, respectively. Apparent fertility of CS and normal eggs was 72 and 91%, respectively. Embryonic mortality of normal eggs was greatest after pipping. For the eggs preceding CS eggs, maximal embryonic mortality was at the time feathers appeared. Hens laying CS eggs and those laying non-CS eggs both produced approximately 72 settable eggs. Compared to hens not laying CS eggs, the layers which produced CS eggs had 2.5 more unsettable eggs, 5% lower fertility, and 9% lower percentages of poults (7 fewer poults). All of the differences were significant (P Regression coefficients were determined for some production traits on the positive number of CS eggs per dam incubated. The regression coefficients (± SE) were .33 ± .14 for unsettable eggs and -.2 0 ± .31 for normally shaped settable eggs. Fertility, percentage poults, and poult numbers had regression coefficients (± SE) of −.45 ± .25%, −1.20 ± .40%, and −.98 ± .40 poults, respectively.
Postmitotic Oligodendrocytes Generated During Postnatal Cerebral Development Are Derived From Proliferation of Immature Oligodendrocytes.

The phenotype of proliferating glia is examined during postnatal rodent development by combining immunocytochemistry (ICC) with 3H-thymidine autoradiography (ARG) to identify cells in the S phase of the cell cycle. Antibodies (ABs) which are specific for cells in the oligodendrocyte (OL) lineage were utilized, with emphasis placed upon the proliferation of OLs as it remains unclear whether this cell type divides in situ. The results show that proliferating cells stain with ABs which are specific for OLs and myelin glycolipids. The proliferating OLs (oligodendroblasts), although they do not appear to have formed myelin sheaths, have quite elaborate and distinctive morphologies. These oligodendroblasts give rise to very long, thin processes which in turn have additional branches. Their cytoarchitecture corresponds closely to cells described as oligodendroblasts with electron microscopy and whose processes often appear to be in the initial phase of myelination (Skoff et al: J. Comp. Neurol. 169:291-312, 1976a). These proliferating OLs are still quite immature because the expression of myelin specific proteins is only occasionally observed in 3H-thymidine labeled cells. The phenotype of the oligodendroblasts is quite different from that of proliferating astrocytes (astroblasts). As shown in previous studies (Skoff; Dev. Biol. 139:149-163, 1990), the astroblasts, which are identified by the presence of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), usually have thick, stubby processes, and both their nucleus and cytoplasm are larger and of lighter density than those found in oligodendroblasts. In early myelinating regions of the cerebrum, glycolipid positive cells account for the majority of the 3H-thymidine labeled cells. This data, when combined with the quantification of proliferating astrocytes (ASs) from previous immunocytochemical and electron microscopic studies, indicate that oligodendroblasts and astroblasts constitute the vast majority of the proliferating glia in the brain and in optic nerve at times when ASs and OLs are being generated. In normal postnatal cerebral development, the immature ASs and OLs which proliferate are the direct, immediate precursors for most postmitotic ASs and OLs.
Variational Principles for Confined and Unconfined Flow of Ground Water

Finite element techniques are being employed to an increasing degree in solving complicated groundwater flow problems, including problems with a free surface. These methods usually rely on the development of appropriate variational principles. This paper presents several such principles for both confined and unconfined flow.
Vitamins and cancer prevention: Issues and dilemmas

Vitamins are a class of organic compounds that are components of an adequate diet. They or their derivatives function as coenzymes, cellular antioxidants, and/or regulators of gene expression. Fourteen vitamins are recognized in human nutrition (Vitamins A, D, E, K, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, niacin, folacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, choline), with deficiencies or excesses in intake leading to changes in protein, nucleic acid, carbohydrates, fat and/or mineral metabolism. Thus, the integrity of physiological systems, including those associated with detoxification, cellular repair, immune processes, and neural and endocrine function, depends upon the nutritional and vitamin status of the host. For these reasons, it may be anticipated that the adequacy of the vitamin supply to cells and tissues would affect the development, progress, and outcome of cancers. In this review, the definition and functions of and requirements and recommended allowance for vitamins are discussed briefly before exploring the evidence, largely from studies in experimental animals, that indicates the nature of the link between vitamins and cancer. Although evidence based on studies in animal systems reveals that vitamin intake and status can modulate the outcome of experimental carcinogenesis, the findings are often conflicting and difficult to interpret. Furthermore, it is not yet possible to develop a suitable prediction of the role of the individual vitamins in tumor development. The significance of these observations for human nutrition and cancer prevention, particularly in reference to ascorbic acid (vitamin C), vitamin E, and B-complex vitamins is considered. Vitamin A and retinoid compounds are discussed elsewhere in the symposium. The many popular misconceptions and unsound advice concerning vitamins and health, including "fake" vitamins-pangamic acid ("vitamin B15") and laetrile ("vitamin B17")-are also discussed. On the basis of current evidence, it would be inappropriate to recommend either substantial changes in habitual vitamin intakes, as provided by an adequate, well-balanced diet, or promotion of megavitamin intakes, as a means of reducing risk from cancers in the human population. However, a prudent approach toward diet and food habits, as a means of better optimizing the health consequences of our complex lifestyle is to be recommended.
Solvable classes for reliable network allocation

A solution to the network allocation problem is an allocation of given operating probabilities to the nodes of a network so as to optimize its reliability. The reliability measure used is the residual reliability of the network, a noncoherent model. The problem is known to be NP-complete for an arbitrary network. We present classes of network topologies that admit solutions to this problem as in the class of star, in "very dense" classes, threshold, and bus and ring topologies. >
Effects of histone deacetylase inhibitors on p55CDC/Cdc20 expression in HT29 cell line

In a previous work, taking advantage of the gene-array screening technology, we analysed the effects of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor sodium butyrate (NaBt), on gene transcription in HT29 human adenocarcinoma cell line. In this study, we focused our attention on p55CDC/Cdc20 gene, whose expression was dramatically reduced by NaBt treatment. Mammalian p55CDC/Cdc20 interacts with the anaphase promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C), and is involved in regulating anaphase onset and late mitotic events. Using NaBt and trichostatin A (TSA), a member of the HDAC inhibitor family, we showed that both HDAC inhibitors totally downregulated p55CDC/Cdc20 transcription and expression. Cell cycle analysis demonstrated that NaBt arrested HT29 cells in G0/G1 phase, while TSA caused a double block in G0/G1 and G2/M phases. Moreover, p55CDC/Cdc20 showed maximal expression in S and G2/M phases of HT29 cell division cycle. Based on this evidence, and by means of specific cell cycle modulators, such as nocodazole and hydroxyurea, we demonstrated that both TSA and NaBt were responsible for loss of p55CDC/Cdc20 expression, but with different mechanisms of action. Taken together, these results suggest that targeting molecules involved in spindle mitotic checkpoint, such as p55CDC/Cdc20, might account for the high cytotoxicity of HDAC inhibitors versus malignant cells.
Experimental investigation of a soft-switching three-phase, three-voltage bus DC/DC converter for fuel cell vehicle applications

A soft-switching three-phase, three-voltage (14 V/42 V/high voltage) bus dc/dc converter is presented for power management in fuel cell vehicle applications. It features reduced ripple currents, smaller capacitances, high efficiency and a larger power handling capability. The mathematic model is derived and used in the determination of the soft-switching criteria with and without the 14 V bus load current. The topology was verified experimentally with a 6 kW prototype that occupies a small foot print of 19.8 cm times 27.9 cm. The efficiency of the converter is above 96% in most load conditions with a maximum efficiency of 96.99%. An efficiency of 95.2% was achieved at the maximum output power of 6.4 kW in the boost mode. Dynamic response test results in the buck and boost modes are also shown.
Irreversible electroporation of stage 3 locally advanced pancreatic cancer: optimal technique and outcomes.

Objective: Irreversible electroporation (IRE) of stage 3 pancreatic adenocarcinoma has been used to provide quality of life time in patients who have undergone appropriate induction therapy. The optimal technique has been reported within the literature, but not in video form. IRE of locally advanced pancreatic cancer is technically demanding requiring precision ultrasound use for continuous imaging in multiple needle placements and during IRE energy delivery. Methods: Appropriate patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer should have undergone appropriate induction chemotherapy for a reasonable duration. The safe and effective technique for irreversible electroporation is preformed through an open approach with the emphasis on intra-operative ultrasound and intra-operative electroporation management. Results: The technique of open irreversible electroporation of the pancreas involves bracketing the target tumor with IRE probes and any and all invaded vital structures including the celiac axis, superior mesenteric artery (SMA), superior mesenteric-portal vein, and bile duct with continuous intraoperative ultrasound imaging through a caudal to cranial approach. Optimal IRE delivery requires a change in amperage of at least 12 amps from baseline tissue conductivity in order to achieve technical success. Multiple pull-backs are necessary since the IRE ablation probe lengths are 1 cm and thus needed to achieve technical success along the caudal to cranial plane. Conclusions: Irreversible electroporation in combination with multi-modality therapy for locally advanced pancreatic carcinoma is feasible for appropriate patients with locally advanced cancer. Technical demands are high and require the highest quality ultrasound for precise spacing measurements and optimal delivery to ensure adequate change in tissue resistance.
ISDN U transceiver analog front-end

The transmit and receive analog sections of a single-chip U transceiver implemented in a 1.2- mu m CMOS process are presented. A sigma-delta A/D converter achieves 87 dB S/(N+D) pk/rms. A bandgap reference, D/A, switched-capacitor filter, buffer, and line driver implement the transmit path that meets the pulse, spectral, and linearity requirements specified by T1E1. All analog circuits are implemented using fully differential techniques and are designed to meet performance specifications without any production trimming or calibration. >
A Machine Learning Approach to the Automatic Evaluation of Machine Translation

We present a machine learning approach to evaluating the well-formedness of output of a machine translation system, using classifiers that learn to distinguish human reference translations from machine translations. This approach can be used to evaluate an MT system, tracking improvements over time; to aid in the kind of failure analysis that can help guide system development; and to select among alternative output strings. The method presented is fully automated and independent of source language, target language and domain.
Human Decidual Natural Killer Cells Are a Unique NK Cell Subset with Immunomodulatory Potential

Natural killer cells constitute 50–90% of lymphocytes in human uterine decidua in early pregnancy. Here, CD56bright uterine decidual NK (dNK) cells were compared with the CD56bright and CD56dim peripheral NK cell subsets by microarray analysis, with verification of results by flow cytometry and RT-PCR. Among the ∼10,000 genes studied, 278 genes showed at least a threefold change with P ≤ 0.001 when comparing the dNK and peripheral NK cell subsets, most displaying increased expression in dNK cells. The largest number of these encoded surface proteins, including the unusual lectinlike receptors NKG2E and Ly-49L, several killer cell Ig-like receptors, the integrin subunits αD, αX, β1, and β5, and multiple tetraspanins (CD9, CD151, CD53, CD63, and TSPAN-5). Additionally, two secreted proteins, galectin-1 and progestagen-associated protein 14, known to have immunomodulatory functions, were selectively expressed in dNK cells.
Evaluating infrastructure resource allocation in support of regional stability

Post-conflict stability is a tenuous goal for security forces and host nation governments alike. Recent experiences of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members and coalition partners in Afghanistan have illuminated how insurgencies damage stability operations despite great sacrifice and enormous commitments of resources. Stability operations focus on security, governance, development, and gaining the support of the civilian population. Reconstruction and infrastructure development is a complicated but essential component of stability. It allows the population to resume their daily lives and the government to demonstrate its capacity and capabilities while delivering essential services. It can be a means to undermine support for insurgency and stimulate long term peace. However, the scale and complexity of infrastructure investment present great risk for leaders due to the high cost, long time horizons, and the possibility of unintended consequences. Leaders require a process by which to evaluate the situation, determine capability gaps, develop appropriate measures, offer feasible courses of action, and assess the quality of each. A systems approach using agent-based modelling offers them an opportunity to gain the insight they need to make informed decisions.
Absorption and metabolism of galactose and galactitol in Anthonomus grandis

Abstract Galactitol is a significant metabolite of galactose in fasted adults of Anthonomus grandis ; this is the first time that galactitol has been found to be a metabolite of galactose in an insect in vivo . Galactitol is not metabolized, and galactose, at best, is poorly metabolized by the boll weevil to trehalose and glycogen. Because sizeable quantities appear in the haemolymph when fed, galactose and galactitol must be readily absorbed through the gut.
Computation of defect-induced electric fields on outdoor high voltage ceramic and non-ceramic insulators

Insulators can develop different types of defects during manufacturing, mishandling and when exposed to various atmospheric conditions while in service. The type of defects commonly obtained range from voids, improper adhesion, and cracks. Timely detection of these defects is essential to avoid power supply disruption due to insulator failure. This paper presents a study to determine if defects cause significant change in the electric field along or near the insulator surface. An attempt is needed to determine defects that do and do not cause a change in electric field.
Computer-aided system integration for data-intensive multimedia applications (poster session)

In this paper we describe a computer-aided design (CAD) tool for automatically designing and integrating network and data management hardware for data-intensive multimedia applications, such as the animation film studio. The tool determines the network strategy, interconnection hardware required, number and location of proxies and servers, and file allocation.
Genetic evidence for a silent SUC gene in yeast.

The SUC genes (SUC1–SUC7) of Saccharomyces are a family of genes that are dispersed in the yeast genome. A SUC+ allele at any locus confers the ability to produce the enzyme invertase and, thus, to ferment sucrose. Most yeast strains do not carry SUC+ alleles at all possible SUC loci. We have investigated the naturally occurring negative (suc0) alleles present at SUC loci with the aim of distinguishing between two possible models for the structure of suc0 alleles: (1) suc0 alleles correspond to a simple absence of SUC genetic information; (2) suc0 alleles are "silent" SUC genes that either produce a defective product or are not expressed. To facilitate these studies, sucrose-nonfermenting strains were constructed that are congenic to S. cerevisiae strain S288C (SUC2+), but carry at the SUC2 locus the naturally occurring negative allele, suc20, of strain FL100 (Lacroute 1968). These strains were used to study the genetic properties of the suc20 allele of FL100 and the suc0 alleles (suc10, suc30, etc.) of S288C. The suc20 allele was shown to revert to an active Suc+ state and to provide functional information at three points in the SUC2 gene in recombination experiments; this suc20 gene thus appears to be a "silent" gene. Similar tests for silent SUC genes in S288C (corresponding to loci other than SUC2) failed to reveal any additional silent genes.
Confirmation Bias, Overconfidence, and Investment Performance: Evidence from Stock Message Boards

Using data from a new field experiment in South Korea, we study how information from virtual communities such as stock message boards influences investors’ trading decisions and investment performance. Motivated by recent studies in psychology, we conjecture that investors would use message boards to seek information that confirms their prior beliefs. This confirmation bias would make them more overconfident and adversely affect their investment performance. An analysis of 502 investor responses from the largest message board operator in South Korea supports our conjecture. We find that investors exhibit confirmation bias when they process information from message boards. We also demonstrate that investors with stronger confirmation bias exhibit greater overconfidence. Those investors have higher expectations about their performance, trade more frequently, but obtain lower realized returns. Collectively, these results suggest that participation in virtual communities increases investors’ propensity to commit investment mistakes and is likely to be detrimental to their investment performance.
Ticker fluency, sentiment, and asset valuation

Abstract The objective of this study is to examine whether investors channel their propensity to speculate differently depending on the fluency of a stock's ticker (i.e., the ticker's ease of pronunciation). Baker and Wurgler (2006) suggest that this propensity to speculate defines investor sentiment, and Green and Jame (2013) contend that fluency of a company's name can affect the level of investor recognition for the stock. We hypothesize that when investors speculate, they speculate in stocks that have greater recognition and thus cause such stocks to be overvalued. We test this hypothesis by examining whether, when beginning-of-period sentiment is high, stocks with most-fluent tickers underperform stocks with least-fluent tickers (as measured by returns). We find that in periods preceded by high sentiment, stocks with most-fluent tickers have lower returns than stocks with least-fluent tickers have. This study contributes to the literature by documenting that stock prices are affected by characteristics of securities with no bearing on stocks’ underlying cash flows, risk characteristics, or required returns. Additionally, a readily usable measure of the affinity that an investor might have for a particular ticker is presented and developed.
Habitat Specialization and Social Factors in Distribution of Red and Gray Squirrels

The spatial distribution, habitat specialization, use of food supply, and interspecific behavior within coexisting populations of red squirrels ( Tamiasciurus hudsonicus ) and gray squirrels ( Sciurus carolinensis ) and the social organization of red squirrels were examined in a 10.2-ha mixed forest in northern Wisconsin during June 1974–March 1976. Habitat specialization, not interspecific aggression, determined differences in distribution of red and gray squirrels. Distribution and abundance of each species were related to production of principal seed foods. Population densities of red squirrels were highest in fir ( Abies )-cedsir ( Thuja ) cover and in pine ( Pinus ) cover in months following high production of cones. Sighting densities of gray squirrels were highest in mature cover of maple ( Acer )-oak ( Quereus ) throughout the year and were correlated with tree size of red oak ( Quercus rubra ). Both species consumed seeds of maple, oak, and hazel ( Corylus ); red squirrels also fed on conifer seeds. Interspecific aggression between red and gray squirrels was rare. Adult red squirrels usually established territories defended solely against conspecifics. Territories were less stable than those found in western conifer forests.
Functional Fixedness: The Functional Significance of Delayed Disengagement Based on Attention Set

During search, the disengagement of attention is automatically delayed when a fixated but task-irrelevant object shares features of the search target. We examined whether delayed disengagement based on top-down attention set is potentially functional, resulting in additional processing of the fixated item. To accomplish this, we adapted the oculomotor disengagement paradigm. Participants saccaded to a peripheral object of a particular color and responded to the identity of the letter within it. To initiate search participants made a saccade away from an always irrelevant object at the center of the screen that matched or mismatched the target’s color and contained a letter that was congruent or incongruent with the target letter. We found that delayed disengagement based on attention set was associated with deeper processing of the center item: a congruency effect between the center letter and peripheral target letter was only observed when the center object’s color matched participants’ attention set. Results are consistent with the proposal that delayed disengagement based on attention set is functionally significant, automatically encouraging deeper levels of processing of target-like objects that fall within the focus of attention.
Plasma lipid levels during pregnancy in the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta).

SummaryA significant decrease in plasma phospholipids, total cholesterol, and total lipids occurs during pregnancy in the rhesus monkey. These alterations are initially observed after week 5 of gestation, reach a maximum by week 11, and are maintained at this level essentially throughout pregnancy, with a small upward trend noted during the terminal few weeks. Nonesterified fatty acid and triglyceride levels fluctuate randomly during most of pregnancy but are elevated during the last month of gestation and at parturition. All lipid moieties return to nonpregnant levels by the second postpartum week.
Interlaminar-shear strain in a two-ply balanced cord-rubber composite

Interlaminar-shear deformation is experimentally obtained and analytically predicted. The experimental measurements serve as a validation of the analytical model. The experimental method, called the replica technique, allows the measurement of interlaminar-shear deformation between the individual plies of the free edge of a laminate. The use of this technique is demonstrated on a series of cord-rubber laminates featuring variations in cord angle. A finite-element computer program treating the composite structure as a torsional axisymmetric layered cylinder forms the analytical model. It is used to predict interlaminar-shear deformation on the same series of cord-rubber laminates. These predictions are in good agreement with replica measurements.
Discovery of novel-scaffold monoamine transporter ligands via in silico screening with the S1 pocket of the serotonin transporter.

Discovery of new inhibitors of the plasmalemmal monoamine transporters (MATs) continues to provide pharmacotherapeutic options for depression, addiction, attention deficit disorders, psychosis, narcolepsy, and Parkinson’s disease. The windfall of high-resolution MAT structural information afforded by X-ray crystallography has enabled the construction of credible computational models. Elucidation of lead compounds, creation of compound structure–activity series, and pharmacologic testing are staggering expenses that could be reduced by using a MAT computational model for virtual screening (VS) of structural libraries containing millions of compounds. Here, VS of the PubChem small molecule structural database using the S1 (primary substrate) ligand pocket of a serotonin transporter homology model yielded 19 prominent “hit” compounds. In vitro pharmacology of these VS hits revealed four structurally unique MAT substrate uptake inhibitors with high nanomolar affinity at one or more of the three MATs. In vivo characterization of three of these hits revealed significant activity in a mouse model of acute depression at doses that did not elicit untoward locomotor effects. This constitutes the first report of MAT inhibitor discovery using exclusively the primary substrate pocket as a VS tool. Novel-scaffold MAT inhibitors offer hope of new medications that lack the many classic adverse effects of existing antidepressant drugs.