cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Surface modification of Sylgard 184 polydimethylsiloxane by 254 nm excimer radiation and characterization by contact angle goniometry, infrared spectroscopy, atomic force and scanning electron microscopy

Abstract The modification of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) by narrow band 254 nm excimer radiation under a nitrogen atmosphere was characterized by contact angle goniometry, attenuated total reflectance infrared spectroscopy, atomic force and scanning electron microscopy. UV irradiation results in the formation of the carboxylic acids that influences the wettability of the surface. Continued exposure results in the formation of an inorganic surface (SiO x (1 x
Modelling a recirculating density-driven turbulent flow

A mathematical model of turbulent density-driven flows is presented and is solved numerically. A form of the k–ϵ turbulence model is used to characterize the turbulent transport, and both this non-linear model and a sediment transport equation are coupled with the mean-flow fluid motion equations. A partitioned, Newton–Raphson-based solution scheme is used to effect a solution. The model is applied to the study of flow through a circular secondary sedimentation basin.
Lessons learned and forgotten: the need for prevention and mental health interventions in disaster preparedness.

Human beings have been subjected to the effects of both natural and man-made disasters for centuries. How humans have coped with catastrophes has been recorded through history. This review proceeds from an examination of the efforts in legislation and disaster research through a brief history of war-time experiences and treatment of combat stress reactions. As warfare changed, so did the ability of soldiers to cope. Likewise, treatment interventions to restore soldiers to effectiveness evolved with the changes in warfare. The treatment principles developed in war and the concepts recognized from the stress literature can be integrated to understand how the treatment interventions work. Examples of the delivery of mental health services are reviewed. The lesson learned during war were often forgotten after the war. It was not until the 1970s that the need for prevention and planning for mental health interventions during and after disasters was legislated. Research efforts are now focusing on planning, implementing interventions, and following survivors/victims for posttraumatic effects. Language: en
The value of ThinPrep and cytospin preparation in pleural effusion cytological diagnosis of mesothelioma and adenocarcinoma

The diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma requires an integration of the clinical presentation, radiological studies, and immunohistochemical stain of histological sections. Cytological diagnosis on pleural effusions of mesothelioma and pulmonary adenocarcinoma is highly desirable but debatable. A spectrum of cytological features has been found to be associated more commonly with malignant mesothelioma (e.g., peripheral cytoplasmic skirt, bubbly cytoplasm, cyanophilic cytoplasm, and scalloped border of cell balls) vs. adenocarcinoma (e.g., two-cell population, inspissated cytoplasmic material, cytoplasmic vacuole, angulated and indented nuclei, and smooth border of cell balls) to only name a few. The current study is designed to assess whether the introduction of a liquid-based technology such as ThinPrep (TP) can provide additional diagnostic value in addition to the conventional cytospin Diff-Quik (DQ) preparations. Pleural effusion specimens were prepared with split samples for DQ-stained cytospin and Papanicolaou-stained liquid-based TP. Fifteen pleural effusion samples with immunohistologically confirmed malignant mesothelioma and 13 pleural effusion samples of immunohistologically confirmed pulmonary adenocarcinomas were retrieved from our files. Both DQ cytospin- and Papanicolaou-stained TP slides were evaluated for the known cytological features associated with malignant mesothelioma (25 cytological features) and adenocarcinoma (22 cytological features) without knowledge of the original cytological and histological diagnoses. The McNemar test was used to compare these two cytological preparations for both malignant mesothelioma and pulmonary adenocarcinoma. In the malignant mesothelioma group, 4 of 25 cytological features evaluated, bubbly cytoplasm (P = 0.002), vacuolated cytoplasm (P = 0.005), cell-in-cell arrangement (P = 0.007) and irregular nuclear contour (P = 0.083), were seen more frequently in the DQ cytospin preparation, as opposed to only one feature, nuclear size enlargement (P = 0.008), more readily seen using TP. In the pulmonary adenocarcinoma group, only 1 of 22 cytological features evaluated, presence of angulated or indented nuclei (P = 0.025), was seen more frequently in DQ as opposed to two features, presence of two- cell population (P = 0.04) and presence of micropapillary structures (P = 0.1), were seen more readily in TP. All other cytological features evaluated distinguishing mesotheliomas (20 features) and pleural adenocarcinomas (19 features) were seen equally readily in both types of specimen preparation techniques. This study suggests that the liquid-based TP preparation of pleural effusions does not appear to provide additional diagnostic value when compared with the DQ cytospin preparation in the cytological distinction between mesothelioma and adenocarcinoma in pleural effusions. Most cytological features evaluated, 20 of 25 (mesothelioma) and 19 of 22 (adenocarcinoma), can be seen in both preparation techniques.
The gene regulatory network for root epidermal cell-type pattern formation in Arabidopsis

A fundamental aspect of multicellular development is the patterning of distinct cell types in appropriate locations. In this review, the molecular genetic control of cell-type pattern formation in the root epidermis of Arabidopsis thaliana is summarized. This developmental system represents a simple and genetically tractable example of plant cell patterning. The distribution of the two epidermal cell types, root-hair cells and non-hair cells, are generated by a combination of positional signalling and lateral inhibition mechanisms. In addition, recent evidence suggests that reinforcing mechanisms are used to ensure that the initial cell fate choice is adopted in a robust manner.
Process scheduling using genetic algorithms

This paper presents a genetic algorithm using a matrix genome encoding to schedule distributed tasks, represented by a directed acyclic graph, on processors in order to minimize the maximum task finishing time. Our experimental results show that this algorithm provides better scheduling results than list scheduling with insertion; and dominant sequence clustering heuristics. Our algorithm generates good schedules even in those cases when the heuristically-generated schedules are worse than using a single processor.
SLC1A5 Mediates Glutamine Transport Required for Lung Cancer Cell Growth and Survival

Purpose: We have previously identified solute-linked carrier family A1 member 5 (SLC1A5) as an overexpressed protein in a shotgun proteomic analysis of stage I non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) when compared with matched controls. We hypothesized that overexpression of SLC1A5 occurs to meet the metabolic demand for lung cancer cell growth and survival. Experimental Design: To test our hypothesis, we first analyzed the protein expression of SLC1A5 in archival lung cancer tissues by immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting ( N = 98) and in cell lines ( N = 36). To examine SLC1A5 involvement in amino acid transportation, we conducted kinetic analysis of l-glutamine (Gln) uptake in lung cancer cell lines in the presence and absence of a pharmacologic inhibitor of SLC1A5, gamma-l-Glutamyl-p-Nitroanilide (GPNA). Finally, we examined the effect of Gln deprivation and uptake inhibition on cell growth, cell-cycle progression, and growth signaling pathways of five lung cancer cell lines. Results: Our results show that (i) SLC1A5 protein is expressed in 95% of squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), 74% of adenocarcinomas (ADC), and 50% of neuroendocrine tumors; (ii) SLC1A5 is located at the cytoplasmic membrane and is significantly associated with SCC histology and male gender; (iii) 68% of Gln is transported in a Na + -dependent manner, 50% of which is attributed to SLC1A5 activity; and (iv) pharmacologic and genetic targeting of SLC1A5 decreased cell growth and viability in lung cancer cells, an effect mediated in part by mTOR signaling. Conclusions: These results suggest that SLC1A5 plays a key role in Gln transport controlling lung cancer cells9 metabolism, growth, and survival. Clin Cancer Res; 19(3); 560–70. ©2012 AACR .
Alternator energized electric towing dynamometer

The national goals of more fuel efficient automobiles are being achieved in part by smaller and lighter vehicles resulting in demands for smaller and compatible instrumentation. Previously designed towing dynamometers for regular-sized vehicles were unable to provide adequately low drawbar levels for small cars like the Chevette. The dynamometer trailer provides a controllable retarding force on the passenger car to simulate hill climbing. This paper describes electrical and mechanical characteristics and operation of a dynamometer specifically designed for contemporary vehicles. An improved method is outlined for supplying controlled electrical power to eddy-current retarders used on the dynamometer. The improved system uses a 24 volt production alternator to supply controlled direct current to the eddy-current retarder. The current delivered to the eddy-current retarder is controlled by adjusting the alternator's field current. Rotational energy to turn the alternator is derived from forward motion of the dynamometer trailer. The improved system eliminates the need for the previously used gasoline-powered generator and silicon-controlled rectifier system. The improved method greatly reduces initial hardware cost, operating and maintenance cost, and noise level.
Value pricing toll program at port authority of New York and New Jersey : revenue for transportation investment and incentives for traffic management

On March 25, 2001, the Value Toll Pricing Program of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey was introduced at the two tunnels and four bridges that connect New Jersey with New York City. Since that time the program has generated incremental revenue to support an aggressive intermodal capital investment program and has also produced traffic management benefits to address congestion. The program represents one of the most aggressive applications of value pricing on existing toll facilities in the United States. Given the level of congestion experienced in the New York-New Jersey region on a daily basis, the program has generated meaningful steps in addressing traffic congestion through market incentives. The genesis of the program as a revenue enhancement to finance an aggressive new intermodal capital investment program is discussed. The traffic management benefits of the program are then explored, as well as the program's effectiveness in addressing five key policy objectives established for the ef...
Weak Ties, Labor Migration, and Environmental Impacts: Toward a Sociology of Sustainability

Debate about the substitutability of manufactured, natural, human, and social capital is at the heart of sustainability theory. Sociology can contribute to this debate by examining the processes an...
Numerical solutions to optimal power-flow-constrained vibratory energy harvesting problems

This study addresses the formulation of optimal numerical controllers for stochastically-excited vibratory energy harvesters in which a single-directional power electronic converter is used to regulate power-flow. Single-directional converters have implementation advantages for small-scale applications, but restrict the domain of feasible controllers. Optimizing the average power generated in such systems can be accomplished by formulating the constrained control problem in terms of stochastic Hamilton-Jacobi theory. However, solving the stochastic Hamilton-Jacobi equation (HJE) is challenging because it is a nonlinear partial differential equation. As such, we investigate the capability of the pseudospectral (PS) method to solve the HJE with mixed state-control constraints. The performance of the PS controller is computed for a single-degree-of-freedom resonant oscillator with electromagnetic coupling. We compare the PS performance to the performance of the optimal static admittance controller as well as the optimal unconstrained linear-quadratic-Gaussian controller.
Loss of Luteinizing Hormone Surges Induced by Chronic Estradiol Is Associated with Decreased Activation of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neurons

Chronic exposure of young ovariectomized rats to elevated circulating estradiol causes loss of steroid-induced LH surges. Such LH surges are associated with cFos-induced activation of GnRH neurons; therefore, we hypothesized that chronic estradiol treatment abolishes LH surges by decreasing activation of GnRH neurons. Regularly cycling rats were ovariectomized and immediately received an estradiol implant or remained untreated. Three days or 2 or 4 wk later, the estradiol-treated rats received vehicle or progesterone at 1200 h, and 7 hourly blood samples were collected for RIA of LH. Thereafter, all rats were perfused, and the brains were examined for immunocytochemical localization of cFos and GnRH. The GnRH neurons from untreated ovariectomized rats rarely expressed cFos. As reported, LH surges induced by 3 days of estradiol treatment were associated with a 30% increase in cFos-containing GnRH neurons, and progesterone enhanced both the amplitude of LH surges and the proportion of cFos-immunopositive GnRH neurons. As hypothesized, the abolition of LH surges caused by 2 or more weeks of estradiol was paralleled by a reduction in the percentage of cFos-containing GnRH neurons, and this effect was delayed by progesterone. These results suggest that chronic estradiol abolishes steroid-induced LH surges in part by inactivating GnRH neurons.
Primary steps in the photolysis of vinyl chloride

The photolysis of C2H3Cl was investigated over the concentration range 0.8 to 200 × 1017 molec/cc at −78, 25 and 40°C. The photolysis was carried out in the presence of various free radical scavengers in order to obtain information regarding the primary process. The results indicated that the primary steps in the photolysis of C2H3Cl may be given by: The ratio RC2H3/RC2H3 = 1.4 · 0.1 is independent of wave length, pressure and/or temperature. The life time of the excited C2H3Cl molecule is estimated not to exceed 3.5 ± 10−11 sec. Die Photolyse von C2H3Cl wurde im Konzentrationsbereich 0,8 bis 200 · 1017 Molekule/cm3 bei −78, 25 und 40°C untersucht. Um Auskunfte uber den Primarprozes zu erhalten, wurde die Photolyse in Gegenwart verschiedener Stoffe zum Einfangen freier Radikale durchgefuhrt. Die Ergebnisse zeigten, das die Primarschritte bei der C2H3Cl-Photolyse folgendermasen beschrieben werden konnen: Das Verhaltnis RC2H3/R = 1,4 · 0,1 ist unabhangig von Wellenlange, Druck und/oder Temperatur. Die obere Grenze der Lebensdauer des angeregten C2H3Cl wird auf 3,5 · 10−11 sec abgeschatzt.
Semantic Taxonomy Induction from Heterogenous Evidence

We propose a novel algorithm for inducing semantic taxonomies. Previous algorithms for taxonomy induction have typically focused on independent classifiers for discovering new single relationships based on hand-constructed or automatically discovered textual patterns. By contrast, our algorithm flexibly incorporates evidence from multiple classifiers over heterogenous relationships to optimize the entire structure of the taxonomy, using knowledge of a word's coordinate terms to help in determining its hypernyms, and vice versa. We apply our algorithm on the problem of sense-disambiguated noun hyponym acquisition, where we combine the predictions of hypernym and coordinate term classifiers with the knowledge in a preexisting semantic taxonomy (WordNet 2.1). We add 10,000 novel synsets to WordNet 2.1 at 84% precision, a relative error reduction of 70% over a non-joint algorithm using the same component classifiers. Finally, we show that a taxonomy built using our algorithm shows a 23% relative F-score improvement over WordNet 2.1 on an independent testset of hypernym pairs.
Time focusing of electromagnetic sounding in conductive media using similarities between wave and diffusion propagation

By using similarities between EM sounding in dielectric and conductive media, it is shown that one can transform between solutions in one type of propagation to the other. The method is based on the similarities of the Laplace transform between the diffusive and the nondiffusive cases. In the diffusive case the equation involves the Laplace variable s in the first power while for the nondiffusive cases similar equations occur with s/sup 2/. Three alternative implementations are developed and their use is demonstrated. The first implementation is based on substitution s/sup 2/ for the Laplace transform variable s using forward and inverse numerical Laplace transform. The second implementation is based on expanding the diffusive time response on an exponential time base and replacing it with its image function in the wave case, namely a sinusoidal function. The third implementation is based on direct transformation in the time domain using exponential time interval sampling. The advantages of the techniques are their simple implementation. Other advantages and limitations of the method and each of the implementations are discussed. Application of common techniques used in processing of seismic radar for processing and EM sounding in conductive media are discussed.
Donor-type CD4+CD25+ Regulatory T Cells Suppress Lethal Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease after Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation

Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) is still a major obstacle in clinical allogeneic bone marrow (BM) transplantation. CD4+CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells have recently been shown to suppress proliferative responses of CD4+CD25− T cells to alloantigenic stimulation in vitro and are required for ex vivo tolerization of donor T cells, which results in their reduced potential to induce aGVHD. Here we show that CD4+CD25+ T cells isolated from the spleen or BM of donor C57BL/6 (H-2b) mice that have not been tolerized are still potent inhibitors of the alloresponse in vitro and of lethal aGVHD induced by C57BL/6 CD4+CD25− T cells in irradiated BALB/c (H-2d) hosts in vivo. The addition of the CD4+CD25+ Treg cells at a 1:1 ratio with responder/inducer CD4+CD25− T cells resulted in a >90% inhibition of the mixed leukocyte reaction and marked protection from lethal GVHD. This protective effect depended in part on the ability of the transferred CD4+CD25+ T cells to secrete interleukin 10 and occurred if the Treg cells were of donor, but not host, origin. Our results demonstrate that the balance of donor-type CD4+CD25+ Treg and conventional CD4+CD25− T cells can determine the outcome of aGVHD.
Balancing autonomy and utilization of solar power and battery storage for demand based microgrids

The growth of intermittent solar power has developed a need for energy storage systems in order to decouple generation and supply of energy. Microgrid (MG) systems comprising of solar arrays with battery energy storage studied in this paper desire high levels of autonomy, seeking to meet desired demand at all times. Large energy storage capacity is required for high levels of autonomy, but much of this expensive capacity goes unused for a majority of the year due to seasonal fluctuations of solar generation. In this paper, a model-based study of MGs comprised of solar generation and battery storage shows the relationship between system autonomy and battery utilization applied to multiple demand cases using a single particle battery model (SPM). The SPM allows for more accurate state-of-charge and utilization estimation of the battery than previous studies of renewably powered systems that have used empirical models. The increased accuracy of battery state estimation produces a better assessment of system performance. Battery utilization will depend on the amount of variation in solar insolation as well as the type of demand required by the MG. Consumers must balance autonomy and desired battery utilization of a system within the needs of their grid.
Vitamin A Concentrations in Piglet Extrahepatic Tissues Respond Differently Ten Days after Vitamin A Treatment

Periodic supplementation to infants and young children is encouraged in developing countries by the WHO. We investigated vitamin A (VA) in extrahepatic tissues of piglets after supplementation with retinyl acetate to determine long-term storage. 3, 4-Didehydroretinyl acetate (DRA) as a tracer was used to evaluate uptake from chylomicra in 4 h. Sows were fed a VA-depleted diet throughout pregnancy and lactation. Male castrated piglets (n = 28, 11.6 ± 0.5 d) from these sows were weaned onto a VA-free diet for 1 wk, assigned to 4 groups, and dosed orally with 0, 26.2, 52.4, or 105 μmol VA. After 10 d, 5.3 μmol DRA was administered to determine short-term uptake of 3, 4-didehydroretinol (DR). Four hours later, piglets were killed; adrenal glands, kidney, lung, and spleen were collected and analyzed for retinol and DR. Retinol concentrations of kidney and adrenal gland were higher than control, but treated groups did not differ. Retinol concentration was highest in kidney (1.70–2.52 nmol/g), followed by adrenal gland (0.30–0.48 nmol/g), lung (0.15–0.21 nmol/g), and spleen (0.11–0.15 nmol/g). Total retinol in kidney and spleen was different among the groups (P < 0.05). Unesterified retinol was the major VA form; the percent retinol of total VA was lowest in adrenal glands. DR did not differ among the groups. In 4 h, the minimum estimated chylomicron contribution to tissue DR was 63–280% higher than the maximum DR exposure from retinol-binding protein. Constant dietary intake may be important in maintaining VA concentrations in extrahepatic tissues.
Dietary tryptophan requirement of hybrid striped bass (Morone chrysops × M. saxatilis)

Requirements for six of the 10 indispensable amino acids (IAA) have not been quantified for hybrid striped bass. In this study, we estimate the requirement for l-tryptophan by nonlinear regression analysis of several growth indicators. Fifteen isocaloric, isonitrogenous diets were formulated to contain 1.0, 1.3, 1.6, 1.9, 2.2, 2.5, 2.8, 3.1, 3.4, 3.7, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 10.0 or 14 g L-tryptophan kg-1 diet and fed to reciprocal cross hybrid striped bass for 7 weeks. After 5 weeks, survival of fish receiving the basal diet was 40% while surviving fish fed this diet were in poor health. Survival of fish receiving 1.3 g Trp kg-1 diet declined to 70% by termination of the trial. Survival in other treatments was 100%. Fish weight gain was 100% or greater for fish receiving 1.6 g Trp kg-1 diet or more. Hepatosomatic index, muscle ratio and intraperitoneal fat (IPF) ratio also responded to dietary tryptophan concentration. IPF was inversely related to dietary tryptophan concentration. The dietary tryptophan requirement was estimated to be between 2.1 and 2.5 g kg-1 diet (6-7 g kg-1 protein), depending on response variable, using four- and five-parameter saturation kinetics models. These findings will increase the precision of diets formulated for hybrid striped bass.
Accuracy of left atrial anatomical maps acquired with a multielectrode catheter during catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation

Left atrial geometry provided by preprocedural MRI/CT imaging studies is often used to guide pulmonary vein isolation. Rapid 3D reconstruction of the left atrium (LA) can be obtained using multielectrode catheters in conjunction with electro-anatomical mapping (EAM) and can also be used to guide ablation. The objective of this study is to assess the accuracy of electro-anatomical left atrial maps acquired with the multispine catheter by comparing them to CT and MRI images. Forty patients undergoing ablation for atrial fibrillation were studied. All patients underwent preprocedural CT/MRI imaging. 3D reconstructions of the LA were obtained using a multispine catheter with the Ensite/NavX mapping system. The operator was blinded to the results of the preprocedural imaging studies while acquiring the LA maps. Mean map acquisition time was 10.3 ± 3.0 min. There was a strong correlation between maximum pulmonary vein (PV) ostial length and intervein distances measured on the electro-anatomical maps and on the CT/MRI images. Moreover, 11 patients had right middle PVs which were detected during map acquisition. Six out of nine (67%) early branches of the right inferior PV and three out of three (100%) early branches of right superior PV were also identified. In two patients, one branch of the left superior PV and one branch of the left inferior PV were not detected during mapping. Left atrial anatomical maps acquired using multielectrode catheters in conjunction with EAM are accurate and provide information regarding pulmonary vein dimensions and geometry which is similar to that obtained with CT/MR imaging.
Income tax concessions for owner‐occupied housing

Abstract This article considers arguments for and against the major tax concessions for owner‐occupied housing in the Internal Revenue Code—concessions that have a significant effect on the federal budget. It recommends retaining two of the concessions— nontaxation of net imputed income and exemption of capital gains—and abolishing two others—the mortgage interest and real estate tax deductions. After a review of the market impact of removing each deduction, the article concludes that an appropriate phase‐out period of 15 to 20 years would virtually eliminate adverse effects on house prices and homeowners.
Racial and ethnic disparities in use of 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate for prevention of preterm birth

Background Racial/ethnic disparities in preterm birth remain a major public health challenge in the United States. While 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17OHP-C) is recommended for preterm birth prevention in women with a prior preterm birth, non-Hispanic black women continue to experience higher rates of recurrent preterm birth than white women receiving the same treatment. Further investigation of disparities in 17OHP-C use and adherence is warranted. Objective We sought to evaluate whether racial and ethnic disparities exist in the use of and adherence to 17OHP-C within a population of eligible women. Study Design This was a retrospective cohort study of women with a prior spontaneous, singleton preterm birth who were eligible for 17OHP-C for preterm birth prevention and received care at a single institution from 2010 through 2014. Associations between self-identified race/ethnicity (non-Hispanic black vs women in all other racial/ethnic groups) and documented counseling about 17OHP-C, receipt of any 17OHP-C, and adherence to 17OHP-C administration were each estimated by bivariable analysis and multivariable logistic regression. Adherence to 17OHP-C was defined as not >1 missed dose, initiation Results Of 472 women who were clinically eligible for 17OHP-C, 72% (N = 296) had documented 17OHP-C counseling and 48.9% (N = 229) received 17OHP-C. There were no differences in likelihood of 17OHP-C counseling or receipt of 17OHP-C based on race/ethnicity. While overall 83% (N = 176) of women were adherent to 17OHP-C, only 70% (N = 58) of non-Hispanic black women were adherent, compared to 91% (N = 118) of all other women ( P P P Conclusion In a diverse cohort of women eligible for preterm birth prevention, non-Hispanic black women are at an increased risk of nonadherence to 17OHP-C. Non-Hispanic black women with public insurance are at a particularly increased risk of nonadherence.
Salt intake and angiotensin II alter microvessel density in the cremaster muscle of normal rats

This study investigated the effect of salt intake and angiotensin II (ANG II) levels on microvessel density (MVD). Rats with indwelling arterial and venous catheters were placed on either a high-sa...
Marker-assisted Selection for Blast Resistance and Fertility Restoration in Rice

Marker-assisted selection for multiple traits is of great significance in rice breeding. A total of 394 rice recombinant inbred lines were screened with DNA markers tightly linked to rice blast resistance gene Pi25. Lines carrying the resistant homozygote were genotyped with DNA markers tighty linked to genes for fertility restoration. Twenty candidate restorer lines and 27 candidate maintainer lines were selected. Blast resistance and fertility restoration of the 47 lines were tested with phenotypic evaluation. Results suggested that the step-by-step approach used in this study is feasible for marker-assisted selection of multiple traits.
Development of attenuated H5N1 avian influenza vaccines using reverse genetic technology

Outbreaks caused by highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza viruses have spread worldwide and the containment is impossible no longer. During the outbreaks, over 200 human infection cases with 55% fatality are confirmed at the moment and some human-to -human transmission in family clusters have been observed in Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia. The potency of pandemic caused by highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza is increasing gradually. Consequently, development of effective H5N1 vaccine and its licensing for vaccination to human are urgent countermeasures for pandemic preparedness. In the present article, the author reviews the development of H5N1 attenuated vaccine by reverse genetic technology and discuss the problems on the vaccine production to be dissolved before pandemic occur.
Promoting the Well-Being of Unaccompanied Immigrant Minors

The presence of undocumented unaccompanied Latino immigrant children and youth in our communities poses a formidable challenge for this nation. This chapter highlights the plight of unaccompanied migrant minors (UIM) in the United States and around the world, what we know about their mental health and resiliency, and the government’s response to this issue; it also discusses the creation and evolution of an innovative community–university partnership designed to promote the human rights and well-being of UIMs in South Florida. Throughout this discussion, the authors urge readers to consider opportunities for infrastructure building at the community level, and the important role of local and federal governmental responses in the provision of specialized services for this population.
A Decision-Support System for Systems Engineering and Management: The SEMS Experiment at NASA

Can Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methods play a role in the forthcoming generation of computer-based expert systems and decision support systems? An interest in this question led the first author to join co-authors R.W. Nelson and W. Truszkowski of the Mission Operations and Data Systems (MODS) Directorate of NASA, in the development of SEMS, a computer-based information and decision-support tool for NASA managers.
Epstein-Barr virus-specific adoptive immunotherapy for recurrent, metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

BACKGROUND Early-stage and intermediate-stage nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) generally carry a good prognosis, but for patients with recurrent, metastatic disease, options are limited. In the current study, the authors present a phase 1/2 study to evaluate the efficacy of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-stimulated cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (EBV-CTL) immunotherapy in this patient population. METHODS Screening for patients with active, recurrent, metastatic EBV-associated NPC began in February 2007, and the study was closed to accrual in January 2012. After informed consent was obtained, patients had their blood drawn to initiate manufacturing of the EBV-CTL product. During product manufacturing, patients were placed on interim standard-of-care chemotherapy, and only after disease progression on the interim chemotherapy did patients receive investigational immunotherapy. Patients were restaged every 2 months until disease progression and then followed for survival. RESULTS A total of 28 patients were enrolled, and 21 patients were treated. There was 1 complete response achieved, and at the time of last follow-up, the patient had been in remission for >8 years since treatment. The median progression-free survival was 2.2 months, and the median overall survival was 16.7 months. Two other patients, after failing EBV-CTL immunotherapy, unexpectedly demonstrated strong responses to the chemotherapy regimens they had previously failed. Patient EBV viral load and EBV-CTL specificity for tumor-associated viral antigens did not appear to correlate with clinical response. CONCLUSIONS A durable response was observed with EBV-CTL immunotherapy, but the overall response rate for patients with recurrent, metastatic NPC was low. Further research is necessary to increase the efficacy of EBV-specific immunotherapy in patients with incurable NPC, and to characterize mechanisms for refacilitation to chemotherapy. Cancer 2017;123:2642-50. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
A Retrospective Case-Matched Cost Comparison of Surgical Treatment of Melanoma and Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer in the Outpatient Versus Operating Room Setting

BACKGROUNDTo date, no study has used authentic billing data in a case–control matched fashion to examine the cost of treating skin cancer in different settings.OBJECTIVETo compare the cost of surgical treatment of skin cancer in the outpatient versus operating room setting using matched cases based
Human Evolution and Celebrity Fossils

Seven Skeletons . By Lydia Pyne. 2016. Viking, An imprint of Penguin Random House. (ISBN: 978-0-525-42985-2). 283pp. Hardcover $28.00. What is it about some fossils that enable them to take on a life beyond the bones? Why is it that some not only withstand scientific scrutiny but become a part of us on a level that transcends their value as scientific artifacts of our human heritage? Lydia Pyne explains this phenomenon of fossil celebrity in Seven Skeletons , examining the story of human evolution through fossils that have established a solid hold on our hearts and minds as well as human history. From page one, Pyne provides a lens that explores the historical beginnings of the modern human evolution narrative while also capturing the birth of the field of paleoanthropology—both of which have grown …
RADIUS DEPENDENCE OF THE SINK STRENGTH OF A DISLOCATION LOOP

The sink strength of a dislocation loop has been calculated using a numerical method. We have shown that the resulting loop radius dependence is consistent with the analytical results based on an electrostatic analog. In addition, the results are consistent with recent calculations made for very small loops. We have given an expression that describes the sink strength as a function of loop radius, defect relaxation volume, and the materials elastic constants. This expression enables us to characterize the reaction rate constants in modeling studies of loop growth and other applications of reaction rate theory.
Real-Time Ambient Noise Subsurface Imaging in Distributed Sensor Networks

Ambient Noise Seismic Imaging (ANSI) is a recently developed geophysical methodology to image the shallow subsurface structures of earth using ambient/environment noise as the source. Integrating ANSI computing within distributed sensor networks will enable real-time continuous monitoring of subsurface dynamics for sustainability studies. However, the research challenges associated with this innovative approach are significant. Traditional data collection using sensor networks imposes practical difficulty for real-time applications, because of the sheer amount of data and large-dense sensor arrays versus limited network bandwidth. This paper is the first to investigate how to utilize the computing capabilities of sensor nodes to perform the computation of ANSI under resource constraints. We explored two distributed approaches (aggregation and consensus) for computing ambient noise eikonal tomography and obtaining phase velocity maps. We performed experiments using CORE emulator to obtain phase velocity maps on real data from USArray Transportable Array. Results demonstrate that our approaches can illuminate phase velocities under network constraints. We also show that the proposed aggregation and consensus algorithms not only balance the computation load but also achieve low communication cost and high data loss tolerance.
Measurement of Plane Stress States using Electromagnetic-Acoustic Transducers

Assessment of structural safety requires knowledge of the shape of any defect and the stresses acting on it. Ultrasonics can be used to measure applied stress since there is a (small) change in velocity with stress. However the problem becomes more difficult when measuring residual stress. Here the influence of other factors such as variation in microstructure must be accounted for. For example, one method is to measure the percent difference in velocity of orthogonally polarized shear waves (the acoustic birefringence B). When the material symmetry and stress axes coincide [1], $$B = B_o + C_a D$$ (1) where Be is the birefringence in the unstressed state, Ca is the acoustoelastic constant and D is the difference of principal stresses. The usual procedure is to measure B at a “reference” location where stresses are known, and assume homogeneity of microstructure.
Dihydroxyacetone levels in electronic cigarettes: Wick temperature and toxin formation

Recently, we reported the presence of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the active ingredient in sunless tanners, in the aerosol of an electronic cigarette. DHA has been shown to react with DNA in vitro. The FDA restricts the use of DHA to external application only. It states that it should not be inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with any areas containing mucous membranes, due to unknown risk. Herein, the quantification of DHA in the aerosols of three brands of e-cigarettes has been carried out. These included two devices with horizontal heating coil configurations as well as one with a sub-ohm resistance vertical heating coil. In order to understand and begin to address the origin of DHA and related aerosol products, the wicking properties of the three e-cigarettes were compared. DHA levels were analyzed by a combination of GS/MS and 1H NMR. DHA was found in all three e-cigarettes, with substantially less in the sub-ohm, vertical coil device as compared to the horizontal coil devices (e.g., 0.088 μg/puff vs. 2.29 μg/puff, respectively). Correspondingly, the temperature of the wet layer of the wick for the vertical coil was relatively stable, compared to the wicks for the horizontal coils, upon increasing battery power output. This result is in agreement with prior studies of e-cigarette wicking efficiency and aerosol toxin formation. The temperature measurements reported are a simple means for comparing devices with different design properties during operation.
Lignin-First Approach to Biorefining: Utilizing Fenton’s Reagent and Supercritical Ethanol for the Production of Phenolics and Sugars

Selective lignin depolymerization (SLD) has emerged as a value-added method of pretreatment for lignocellulosic biorefining, in which lignin is depolymerized into valuable phenolic monomers prior to utilization of the hemicellulose and cellulose. Herein, we report a biomimetic Fenton catalyzed SLD process, converting sweet sorghum bagasse into an organic oil that is rich in phenolic monomers and a solid carbohydrate that is favorable for enzymatic hydrolysis into sugars. Initially, the feedstock’s molecular structure was modified through iron chelation and free radical oxidation via Fenton’s reagent (Fe3+, H2O2). The lignin component of the modified feedstock was then selectively depolymerized in supercritical ethanol (250 °C, 6.5 MPa) under nitrogen to produce a phenolic oil, with a maximum yield of 75.8 wt %. Six valuable phenolic monomers were detected in this oil, with a maximum cumulative yield of 19.1 wt %. The solid carbohydrate obtained after the SLD process was enzymatically hydrolyzed to liberat...
Abstract 19852: When is the Ideal Time to Boost Dietary Self-Monitoring in the Prevention of Weight Regain?

Background: Dietary self-monitoring (DSM) is a key strategy in standard behavioral treatment for weight loss and weight gain prevention. Research has demonstrated the temporal decline in DSM adherence, which precedes the onset of weight regain. Our aim was to identify the time to boost DSM adherence and prevent weight regain. Methods: This is a secondary analysis of daily self-weighing and daily DSM data in EMPOWER, a 12-month behavioral weight loss intervention. Weight data were collected using an in-home Wi-Fi enabled scale that uploaded data in real time. DSM was conducted using the smartphone app, Lose It! We used subject-specific piecewise linear models to detect weight regain onset and classified participants as maintainers vs. regainers. Failure in DSM before weight regain was indicated by a significant structural break (p failure in the weight regain process. Results: Participants (N=137) were defined as regainers (72.3 %) vs. maintainers (27.7%) and 62.0% participants experienced failure in DSM. More regainers (68.4%) had failure in DSM than maintainers (59.6%). On average, participants began to fail in DSM at 126 ± 71 days, and after a mean 186 ± 79 days, participants began weight regain . Failure in DSM was a more hazardous stage for weight regain than the initial stage without failure (p fail in DSM first (hazard= 0.0039, 95% CI = (0.0031, 0.0048)) than regain weight without going through failure in DSM (hazard=0.0018, 95% CI = (0.0013, 0.0025)). Failure in DSM peaked (35.8%) at 195-201 days. (Figure) Conclusions: Participants tended to fail in DSM first, the hazardous stage, then to regain weight. We recommend booster strategies to enhance adherence to DSM at 18-20 weeks (126-140 days), which may prevent DSM failure and weight regain and thus promote cardiovascular health. Figure. Timeline for DSM failure and weight regain
Dancing with strangers: will U.S. substance abuse practice and research organizations build mutually productive relationships?

Abstract The scientific knowledge gained from research has not been extensively integrated into the U.S. substance abuse treatment system. A clear call to arms has been issued by the U.S. federal treatment and research agencies to bring research and practice together to create a better treatment system and a more responsive research agenda. The current federally sponsored initiatives to “close the gap” between research and practice are large and well funded. The field appears ready to change and realize the mutual benefits that can be achieved from the increased “blending” of research and practice. However, while the music has started and the partners seem willing, there are still many obstacles to a successful dance.
PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF TOXINS ISOLATED FROM SCORPION VENOM

ABSTRACT Chromatographie fractionation of venom from the scorpion, Centruroides sculpturatus , shows that this venom contains many low molecular weight proteins that have widely varying toxicities and biological actions. Thirteen of these proteins have been purified. Toxicities range from the highly lethal Toxins III and IV (LD 50 , chicks, 0.02 mg/kg) to the relatively non-lethal variants, variant 3 for example. A comparison of toxicities in chicks and crickets shows that these toxins are not necessarily host specific, e.g. Toxin III has an LD 50 o f 0.02 and 60 mg/kg in cockerels and crickets, respectively; Toxin IV an LD 50 of 0.02 and 1.86 mg/kg respectively; and Toxin 140–1 an LD 50 of 0.87 and 1.60 mg/kg in cockerels and crickets, respectively. The effects of each of the thirteen toxins upon neuromuscular transmission have been studied using the biventer cervicis muscle isolated from the chick. Three effects are observed: (1) block of the twitch upon indirect stimulation (e.g. toxin 144–4 at a dosage of I.85 μg/ml); (2) initial potentiation of the twitch followed by block (Toxin III, dosage 6.25 × 10 -3 μg/ml); and (3) initial potentiation with induction of an oscillation manifested in both the twitch and the resting tension (baseline tension) of the muscle (toxin 140–1, dosage 0.4 μg/ml). The oscillation consists of an accurately timed periodic contracture and relaxation (baseline oscillation) and, likewise, a periodic increase and decrease in the strength of the twitch upon indirect stimulation. A similar oscillation is shown by this muscle when the (Ca 2+ ) is less than 1.72 mM and without toxin. Venom is initially fractionated by column chromatography on CM-cellulose with ammonium acetate buffers of increasing pH and concentrations. The toxins are further purified by rechromatography, on other absorbents, of CMC eluates again using ammonium acetate buffers as developers. Amino acid sequences of four of these toxins have been reported (Babin et al., 1974;1975). Evidence from amino acid compositions suggest that possibly four or five of these isolates have only three disulfide bridges and 50–55 amino acid residues. The other isolates contain four disulfide bridges and 60-66 amino acid residues.
A new approach for wet blue leather defect segmentation

In the process plants where beef skin is processed, leather classification is done manually. An expert visually inspects the leather sheet and classifies them based on the different types of defects found on the surface, among other factors. In this study, an automatic method for defect classification of the Wet Blue leather is proposed. A considerable number of descriptors are computerized from the Gray Scale image and the RGB and HSV color model. Features were chosen based on the Sequential Forward Selection method, which allows a high reduction of the numbers of descriptors. Finally, the classification is implemented by using a Supervised Neural Network. The problem formulation is adequate, allowing a high rate of success, obtaining a method with wide range of possibilities for implementation.
A FAST, STABLE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SIMPLEX METHOD USING BARTELS-GOLUB UPDATING

Summary The only stable method for updating LU factors of the basis matrix in linear programming is that due to Bartels and Golub. Two in-core implementations of the method have been described by J.K. Reid and shown to be very efficient. Here we describe an alternative approach which allows L and most of U to reside on disk. It is shown that the remainder of U (the part which is modified during updating) is typically small enough to be stored in-core as a dense matrix. The efficiency of this scheme is confirmed by experimental results on several practical problems.
Platelets and Coagulation

Platelets play an important role in normal hemostasis by direct effects at the site of vascular injury and by indirect effects through interaction with the hemostatic cascades of circulating blood (Fig. 1.1A-D). Under abnormal circumstances, such as those related to genesis factors of atherosclerosis or factors that prevail during neurointerventional procedures, platelet function plays an important role in the pathogenesis of occlusive and thrombotic complications. Arterial thrombus is frequently described as “white thrombus” composed of densely packed platelets and fibrin. This is in contrast to the loosely packed “red thrombus” of venous thrombosis which contains a greater proportion of erythrocytes. For safe neurointerventional work within the arteries, familiarity with the currently available antiplatelet and antithrombotic drugs is necessary.