cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Specific binding of VirG to the vir box requires a C- terminal domain and exhibits a minimum concentration threshold

The positive regulatory protein VirG from the virulence region of the Ti plasmid of Agrobacterium tumefaciens was first demonstrated to possess DNA-binding capabilities using chromatographically purified protein and in vitro assays (Powell et al., 1989). This paper is an extension of that research and presents evidence on the in vivo DNA-binding properties of VirG using a transcription interference assay. VirG protein bound specifically to a 'vir box' response element and repressed transcription of a lacZ reporter gene, but increased transcription in the absence of a vir box. A biphasic response in specific DNA-binding was observed upon increasing virG expression, suggesting that specific binding was co-operatively affected by protein concentration. Certain TrpE'-'VirG hybrid proteins also bound the vir box, but required sequences distal to amino acid Arg-118 of the VirG polypeptide. These data further localize a DNA-binding domain within VirG, and support a modified model for the regulation of virulence genes in which transphosphorylation by the coregulator VirA functions to stabilize specific DNA-binding by low concentrations of VirG, resulting in gene activation. Otherwise, at high concentrations, VirG promotes expression of the virulence regulon without assistance from VirA as was shown previously (Rogowsky et al., 1987).
Evaluation of the Protein to Energy Ratio Concept in Broiler and Turkey Nutrition

Abstract The main objective of feed formulation should be to maximize profits, the difference between returns (growth response) and costs [feed intake (FI)]. For broilers and growing turkeys it is necessary to predict the BW and feed intake responses in order to estimate which protein and energy levels maximize profits for the producer. Data from the literature were collected to evaluate whether growth and FI responses can be better predicted from the dietary protein to energy ratio than protein and energy levels. The Ordinary Least Squares method was applied to estimate the coefficients (Bn of each model. The best model was selected through the J-test. The protein to energy ratio model was not selected in any case by the J-test. The model based on the protein and energy levels was selected by the J-test to predict the BW response in eight out of nine cases and to predict FI in six out of nine cases. A nested selection was performed to find models for each data set that only include coefficients that are significantly different from zero. The nested selection showed that BW and FI responses can be predicted successfully from protein and energy levels with coefficients of determination between .79 and .97 for broiler chickens and between .45 and .65 for turkeys. Nutritionists should consider the use of models, like the protein and energy levels model, that explain and predict BW and FI responses. Future modeling research should consider important factors in broiler production, like age, sex, and temperature.
Static buckling and actuation of free-standing mesoscale beams

We discuss the static buckling and actuation of free-standing mesoscopic beams. As the length-to-width aspect ratio of the beams is increased, the buckled shapes become more complex. Mechanical actuation confirms that the complex shapes are stable equilibria and that metastable equilibria also exist. This is consistent with a nonlinear elastic continuum model, which incorporates asymmetry in higher order buckling modes. Preliminary results indicate that, in addition to purely mechanical actuation, electromechanical mode-mode transitions can be induced by utilizing fabricated electrodes.
The logic of the promotion decision: In dubio pro patientia

This essay encourages associate professors to wait to initiate their candidacy for promotion until they have established a clearly sufficient, unchallengeable record of research and publication. To guarantee faculty productivity and intellectual vibrancy, and to provide consistent incentives and rewards, university departments should apply reasonably demanding promotion standards that are equivalent to their tenure criteria. Associate professors have a strong interest in comfortably clearing this promotion hurdle to enhance their professional reputation in the eyes of their departmental colleagues, the university leadership, and external referees. Therefore, they are well advised to bid for the rank of professor only after accumulating a strong record that makes a smooth promotion likely.
MADGE: scalable distributed data management software for cDNA microarrays.

Motivation: The human genome project and the development of new high-throughput technologies have created unparalleled opportunities to study the mechanism of diseases, monitor the disease progression and evaluate effective therapies. Gene expression profiling is a critical tool to accomplish these goals. The use of nucleic acid microarrays to assess the gene expression of thousands of genes simultaneously has seen phenomenal growth over the past five years. Although commercial sources of microarrays exist, investigators wanting more flexibility in the genes represented on the array will turn to in-house production. The creation and use of cDNA microarrays is a complicated process that generates an enormous amount of information. Effective data management of this information is essential to efficiently access, analyze, troubleshoot and evaluate the microarray experiments. Results: We have developed a distributable software package designed to track and store the various pieces of data generated by a cDNA microarray facility. This includes the clone collection storage data, annotation data, workflow queues, microarray data, data repositories, sample submission information, and project/investigator information. This application was designed using a 3-tier client server model. The data access layer (1st tier) contains the relational database system tuned to support a large number of transactions. The data services layer (2nd tier) is a distributed COM server with full database transaction support. The application layer (3rd tier) is an internet based user interface that contains both client and server side code for dynamic interactions with the user. Availability: This software is freely available to academic institutions and non-profit organizations at http://www.
Stigma Allure and White Antiracist Identity Management

This article examines how “white antiracists” manage a perceived, and sometimes self-imposed, stigma. Given that whiteness and antiracism are often framed as antonyms, white engagement with matters commonly deemed “nonwhite issues” often involves a presentation of self that unsettles established habit and expected modes of interaction. Adding to the research on race and stigma, I demonstrate how privileged actors repeatedly construct a broken and stigmatized white and antiracist identity in which management of one recreates the stigmatization of the other. They not only accept a “spoiled” identity (whiteness-as-racist and antiracism-as-too-radical), but embrace stigma as markings of moral commitment and political authenticity. This dynamic—what I call stigma allure—illuminates how stigma, rather than a status to be shunned or entirely overcome, can become a desired component of identity formation that drives and orders human behavior toward utilitarian, symbolic, and self-creative goals.
Can money buy green? Demographic and socioeconomic predictors of lawn-care expenditures and lawn greenness in urban residential areas.

It is increasingly important to understand how household characteristics influence lawn characteristics, as lawns play an important ecological role in human-dominated landscapes. This article investigates household and neighborhood socioeconomic characteristics as predictors of residential lawn-care expenditures and lawn greenness. The study area is the Gwynns Falls watershed, which includes portions of Baltimore City and Baltimore County, MD. We examined indicators of population, social stratification (income, education and race), lifestyle behavior, and housing age as predictors of lawn-care expenditures and lawn greenness. We also tested the potential of PRIZM market cluster data as predictors for these two dependent variables. Lawn greenness was found to be significantly associated with lawn-care expenditures, but with a relatively weak positive correlation. We also found lifestyle behavior indicators to be the best predictors for both dependent variables. PRIZM data, especially the lifestyle segmentation, also proved to be useful predictors for both.
Delta air-charge anticipation for mass air flow and electronic throttle control based systems

Cylinder air charge estimators, that account for the air flow dynamics of the engine, are an essential feature to engine emission control systems. These estimators must be further augmented to anticipate the air charge several cylinder events beyond the current estimate due to practical fuel injector limitations. The delay between the commanded and measured throttle position of an electronic throttle controller (ETC) can be used to improve the air charge anticipation algorithms. We develop an air charge algorithm that exploits a one cylinder event ahead prediction of the throttle position to determine air charge one or two cylinder events in the future. We explore a practical method of obtaining the prediction of throttle using an ETC as well as more sophisticated methods to determine the extent of throttle prediction accuracy that is possible over a range of prediction times.
Northern Thai health care alternatives: Patient control and the structure of medical pluralism

Abstract Two distinct features characterize village behavior in dealing with health care alternatives in Northern Thailand. First, the individual strives to preserve a secure social environment by controlling the course and choice of treatment during an illness crisis. Second, there are two spheres of health care discernible beyond any division based solely on type of medical technology, or urban-rural or modern-traditional dichotomies. One sphere, ‘officially-sanctioned’, is socially distant from the patient and totally dependent on the support, and under the aegis of central authority; the other sphere, ‘locally-sanctioned’, is socially close to the patient and dependent on the approval and support of only the local population. The nature of each sphere is dependent upon (1) the way in which practitioners are validated and sanctioned; (2) the internal organization of each practitioner group; and (3) the style of interaction between the practitioner and patient and his or her family. The variable success of patients in controlling the course of their treatment is demonstrated by the styles of interaction in the respective spheres. Attempts to manipulate the healer by influencing the context of healing, the amount and terms of payment for services rendered, and the type of therapy given are major parts of this control. The history of the local medical system suggests that patients in the research area became accustomed to these efforts to control quite early. Such attempts have been instrumental in shaping the present form of the medical system; therefore, a connection between those efforts to control the course of healing and the shape of the medical system is postulated and explored here.
SALINITY CONTROLS ON TROPHIC INTERACTIONS AMONG INVERTEBRATES AND ALGAE OF SOLAR EVAPORATION PONDS IN THE MOJAVE DESERT AND RELATION TO SHOREBIRD FORAGING AND SELENIUM RISK

Three saline evaporation ponds formed by wastewater from a solar energy-generating facility near Harper Dry Lake in the Mojave Desert of California, USA were compared for differences in the communities of benthic and planktonic invertebrates and algae present along with avian visitation and foraging activity. Salinity of the ponds ranged from near 90 to over 200 g L 1 total dissolved solids. During the period of study (1997-1999), the lowest salinity pond averaged 98 g L . Differences in the biological communities, abundance of invertebrates and algae, and avian foraging were examined in relation to these differences in salinity. Only three aquatic invertebrate species were present in substantial numbers, a water boatman (Trichocorixa reticulata), a brine shrimp (Artemia franciscana), and a brine fly (Ephydra gracilis). An abundance of the predator Trichocorixa under low salinity conditions appeared to reduce algae-grazing Artemia, and so released phytoplankton growth, but this was observed only in surveys later in the growth season when populations were mature and had greatest potential for efficient consumption of resources. Brine fly larvae were also fed upon by Tricho- corixa and were least abundant in the low salinity pond. At highest salinities where Trichocorixa could not survive, Artemia were abundant and waters were usually clear, becoming dense with phytoplankton only during the winter dormancy of brine shrimp. Intermediate salinity levels supported some water boatmen, often coexisting with dense brine shrimp and phytoplankton populations, and the greatest dry mass of benthic brine fly larvae and pupae. The high salinity pond produced abundant but small Ephydra larvae and pupae, accompanied by reduced emergence success of adult flies. Birds appeared to forage primarily on benthic brine fly larvae and were most successful in the intermediate salinity pond, possibly because lower salinity resulted in loss of this preferred prey to water boatman predation, and high salinity produced prey of poor quality. These observations suggest that reduced salinity may at times mediate a trophic cascade within a simple food chain, where an invertebrate predator may reduce primary consumers and permit enhanced algal density, but the predation control becomes uncoupled as salinity increases. In the case of the ponds studied here, there appeared to be minimal risk associated with selenium poisoning of water birds because Se was not detected in brine fly larvae or pupae and was found only occasionally in low content in the brine shrimp and corixids and mostly in locales where few birds were found feeding.
Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β) Is a Muscle Biomarker of Disease Progression in ALS and Correlates with Smad Expression

We recently identified Smads1, 5 and 8 as muscle biomarkers in human ALS. In the ALS mouse, these markers are elevated and track disease progression. Smads are signal transducers and become activated upon receptor engagement of ligands from the TGF-β superfamily. Here, we sought to characterize ligands linked to activation of Smads in ALS muscle and their role as biomarkers of disease progression. RNA sequencing data of ALS muscle samples were mined for TGF-β superfamily ligands. Candidate targets were validated by qRT-PCR in a large cohort of human ALS muscle biopsy samples and in the G93A SOD1 mouse. Protein expression was evaluated by Western blot, ELISA and immunohistochemistry. C2C12 muscle cells were used to assess Smad activation and induction. TGF-β1, 2 and 3 mRNAs were increased in ALS muscle samples compared to controls and correlated with muscle strength and Smads1, 2, 5 and 8. In the G93A SOD1 mouse, the temporal pattern of TGF-β expression paralleled the Smads and increased with disease progression. TGF-β1 immunoreactivity was detected in mononuclear cells surrounding muscle fibers in ALS samples. In muscle cells, TGF-β ligands were capable of activating Smads. In conclusion, TGF-β1, 2 and 3 are novel biomarkers of ALS in skeletal muscle. Their correlation with weakness in human ALS and their progressive increase with advancing disease in the ALS mouse suggest that they, as with the Smads, can track disease progression. These ligands are capable of upregulating and activating Smads and thus may contribute to the Smad signaling pathway in ALS muscle.
Detection of Nut Welding Using Poka-Yoke Roller Coaster Jig

This paper describes the proposal of Poka Yoke Roller Coaster (PKYC) jig as a device to detect nut weld missing of door patch base line model (BLM) at assembly line station. The PKYC was proposed in order to detect nut weld missing problem and to reduce cycle time and manpower that lead to higher cost by applying quality management concept as a problem-solving tool. This special purpose tool was capable to meet specific job based on industrial need by providing repeatability, interchangeability and accuracy in the manufacturing of products. A Quality Control (QC) approachcalled the Zero Quality Control (ZQC) was used to achieve zero defects at production line. In order to reach zero defects, poka yoke method was applied in this research. Outcomes indicate that PKYC can be utilised as a custom-tailored jig for detecting nut weld missing as well as fulfilling other objectives.
Does antibiotic resistance influence shiga-toxigenic Escherichia coli O26 and O103 survival to stress environments?

Abstract The presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the food supply chain is a major concern. There is a great need to revalidate the effectiveness of the intervention strategies commonly used in food processing environments for multidrug-resistant strains. The purpose of this study was to determine the survival of antibiotic-resistant O26 and O103 Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strains to lactic acid (2.5, 3.5, 5%), sodium hypochlorite (0.2, 0.5, 1 ppm free chlorine), and heat (60, 61, 62.5 °C) treatments. Six strains from STEC serotypes O26 and O103 with three distinctive antibiotic-resistant profiles (susceptible, low and high resistance) were selected for the study. As expected, the rates of inactivation were faster at increasing biocide concentrations or temperature level. The Weibull model provided a better fit than the traditional log-linear model due to the appearance of nonlinear patterns. A 5% lactic acid treatment for 10 min reduced the population of all STEC strains by 5 log CFU/ml. Sodium hypochlorite treatment (1 ppm for 5 min) achieved a similar reduction. Thermal D values for O26 and O103 serotypes ranged from 0.37 to 2.09 and 0.37–1.71 min, respectively. No statistical differences (P > 0.05) in tolerance were found between the two STEC serotypes to the different treatments. The antibiotic profile was not related to the ability to tolerate any of the treatments. Only the susceptible strain showed a relative higher resistance to the lactic acid and lower resistance to sodium hypochlorite treatment. These results would contribute to assess the risk for the presence of STEC strains in food processing environments.
The Transition Group: Linking Clients with Alcohol Problems to Outpatient Care

SUMMARY This article describes a transition group developed for inner city residents receiving inpatient alcoholism rehabilitation in a hospital-based alcoholism facility. The goal of the group was to facilitate clients' transition from inpatient to outpatient alcoholism treatment. First, the paper will suggest reasons why clients do not continue in care, and it will review prior efforts to help people connect with continuing outpatient treatment. Then, the theoretical framework that guided the group's design will be described. Next, it will outline the intervention's components. Finally, it will discuss the group's effectiveness and implications for clinical practice with adults who experience alcohol problems.
Deformation of a Round Parachute Canopy due to a Line Vortex

5 were used. Flow visualization using dye indicated that the vortex core broke down when the core was in the vicinity of the canopy lip or within the canopy opening. Vortex breakdown occurred at least one canopy (projected) diameter upstream of the canopy opening. The vortex core completely disintegrated as the vortex core approached the forebody. The vortex breakdown and disintegration caused significant deformations on the canopy surface. A reduction in the time averaged drag and an increase in the fluctuating drag was observed when the vortex core was within the canopy opening. The disintegration of the vortex core near the canopy centerline, due to the interaction with the forebody, removed the effects brought about the presence of the coherent core.
Abstract 2363: Loss of Sparc in p53-null astrocytes alters collagen deposition and promotes macrophage activation and tumor phagocytosis

Both the induction of SPARC expression and the loss of the p53 tumor suppressor gene are changes that occur early in glioma development. Therefore, the upregulation of SPARC may cooperate with the loss of p53 to enhance cell survival and inhibit apoptosis during glioma formation. This study determined whether the loss of Sparc in astrocytes that are null for p53 (p53-null/Sparc-null) would result in reduced cell survival and tumor formation and increased tumor immunogenicity in an in vivo xenograft brain tumor model. In vitro, the loss of Sparc in p53-null astrocytes resulted in an increase in cell proliferation (15-33%, p Citation Format: Stacey L. Thomas, Chad R. Schultz, Ezekiell Mouzon, William A. Golembieski, Nancy Lemke, Laila M. Poisson, Jorge A. Gutierrez, Sandra Cottingham, Sandra A. Rempel. Loss of Sparc in p53-null astrocytes alters collagen deposition and promotes macrophage activation and tumor phagocytosis. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 2363. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-2363
Cutaneous manifestations of the leukemia-lymphoma group.

Diseases of the leukemia-lymphoma group present a great variety of cutaneous manifestations. The manifestations of mycosis fungoides in the premycotic, infiltrative and tumor stages are reviewed, and treatment is summarized. In the discussion of the leukemia-lymphoma diseases, a histologic distinction between “id” reactions and nonspecific cutaneous lesions is suggested.
Microbial Indicators in Drinking Water of a Rural Area, 2012

[Objective] To evaluate the microbial contamination of drinking water in rural areas of a city in Hebei Province and related risk factors, propose improvements to reduce waterborne diseases, and protect drinking water safety and human health in rural areas. [Methods] Water samples(n=1 060) were collected from nine counties of a city in the dry season(MarchApril) and the wet season(July-August) of 2012. Evaluation procedures were following the Standard examination methods for drinking water(GB/T 5750-2006) and the Drinking water health standards(GB 5749-2006). [Results] The qualification rate of all water samples was 65.8%. The lowest qualification rate of all single microbial indicators was 72.3% for total coliforms. The qualification rates for total bacteria count and heat-resistant coliform bacteria were 82.9% and 82.2% respectively. There were significant differences in the qualification rates of microbial indicators between the dry season and the wet season(χ2=17.25, P0.01), between deep-well water and shallow-well water/other types(χ2=79.42, P0.01), and among different regions(χ2=29.547, P0.01). [Conclusion] The microbial indicators of drinking water in rural areas of Shijiazhuang are influenced by a variety of factors such as time of water supply, type of source water, and region. Relevant departments should pay attention to control microbial contamination in drinking water by selecting deep-well water sources and strengthening water purification and disinfection in wet season to ensure drinking water safety.
Central nervous system pathways involved in the control of penile erection.

(1999). Central Nervous System Pathways Involved in the Control of Penile Erection. Annual Review of Sex Research: Vol. 10, No. 1, pp. 157-183.
Ambitious Teaching: Designing Practice-Based Assignments for Integrating Virtual Manipulatives into Mathematics Lessons

This chapter details a design-based research study that focused on developing effective approaches for pre-service teachers to integrate technology in the mathematics classroom. Using an iterative design cycle, the researcher developed three practice-based assignments during an elementary mathematics methods course that were designed to promote pre-service teachers’ technology pedagogical content knowledge. These practice based assignments allowed the participants to (a) analyze effective technology tools for mathematics teaching and learning; (b) evaluate applets that supported a vertical learning progression on a specific mathematics concept; and (c) design , implement and reflect on a mathematics lesson where technology amplified the mathematics teaching and learning. By creating pre-service teachers’ own practical image of practice after implementing the technology integrated lessons in the field, pre-service teachers gained a better “picture of practice” of ambitious teaching in the mathematics classroom where effective integration of technology helped construct students’ mathematical understanding.
Conservation Opportunity and Risk Mapping for Carnivores Using Landowner Survey Data from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem

Large landscape planning for wildlife corridors often requires inclusion of private lands and willing landowners to establish successful pathways to and from protected core habitats. Using mail survey data, we spatially assessed carnivore occurrences, perceptions of carnivores, and landowner preferences toward conservation planning tools from three communities to quantify conservation opportunity and risk related to carnivore movement on the landscape. The mapping of social data illustrates the importance of understanding individuals for conservation planning. The approach has the potential to identify areas that pose risks or present opportunities for the implementation of on-the-ground conservation actions to facilitate long-term wildlife movement across private lands.
Probing large viscosities in glass-formers with nonequilibrium simulations.

Abstract For decades, scientists have debated whether supercooled liquids stop flowing below a glass transition temperature T g 0 Tg0 or whether motion continues to slow gradually down to zero temperature. Answering this question is challenging because human time scales set a limit on the largest measurable viscosity, and available data are equally well fit to models with opposite conclusions. Here, we use short simulations to determine the nonequilibrium shear response of a typical glass-former, squalane. Fits of the data to an Eyring model allow us to extrapolate predictions for the equilibrium Newtonian viscosity η N ηN over a range of pressures and temperatures that change η N ηN by 25 orders of magnitude. The results agree with the unusually large set of equilibrium and nonequilibrium experiments on squalane and extend them to higher η N ηN. Studies at different pressures and temperatures are inconsistent with a diverging viscosity at finite temperature. At all pressures, the predicted viscosity becomes Arrhenius with a single temperature-independent activation barrier at low temperatures and high viscosities ( η N > 10 3 ηN>103 Pa ⋅ ⋅s). Possible experimental tests of our results are outlined.
Resource availability underlies the plant-fungal diversity relationship in a grassland ecosystem

It is commonly assumed that microbial communities are structured by "bottom-up" ecological forces, although few experimental manipulations have rigorously tested the mechanisms by which resources structure soil communities. We investigated how plant substrate availability might structure fungal communities and belowground processes along an experimental plant richness gradient in a grassland ecosystem. We hypothesized that variation in total plant-derived substrate inputs, plant functional group diversity, as well as the relative abundance of C4 grasses and legumes would modulate fungal α- and β-diversity and their rates of soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling. To test these predictions, we molecularly characterized fungal communities, as well as potential extracellular enzyme activity, net N mineralization, and soil organic matter respiration. We found higher fungal richness was associated with increasing aboveground plant biomass; whereas, fungal β-diversity was explained by contributions from C4 grass and legume relative dominance, plant functional group diversity, as well as plant biomass. Furthermore, aboveground plant biomass consistently shaped the richness and composition of individual fungal trophic modes (i.e., saprotrophs, symbiotrophs, pathotrophs). Finally, variation in extracellular enzyme activity, net N mineralization rates, and soil organic matter respiration was significantly explained by fungal β-diversity when fungi were functionally classified. Via changes in the supply and composition of organic substrates entering soil, our study demonstrates that changes in the plant species richness and functional composition collectively influence fungal communities and rates of soil C and N cycling.
Cold Tolerance and Supercooling Capacity of the Redbanded Stink Bug (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)

The redbanded stink bug Piezodorus guildinii (Westwood) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) is an invasive stink bug species in the United States. First documented as a soybean pest in Louisiana in the year 2000, this species continues to spread in the Mid-South region of the United States. We designed laboratory and field studies to investigate supercooling points, lethal exposure time (LT), critical thermal minimum (CTmin), and winter mortality of this species. The mean supercooling points (SCP) ± SE of adult field collected P. guildinii ranged from -8.3 ± 0.2°C (highest) in March to -11.0 ± 0.2°C (lowest) in January. Significant differences in SCP occurred over the months and between sexes with significant interactions between month and sex. The CTmin was significantly different between adults and nymphs (third, fourth, and fifth instars combined). LT50 and LT90 were evaluated at subzero temperatures of 0°C, -2°C, and -5°C. There were significant differences in LT50 and LT90 among the temperature treatments. Winter survival significantly differed between the two study years and decreased with progression of winter months.
A concept for the design process

In the previous chapters first the design problems and then the environment of design process were studied. From this the structures of the design process, i.e. its necessary decisions, objectives and restrictions were obtained.
Round Table Report: Theory; Descriptions of Mixed Valency

In many respects, the theoretical description of mixed-valence systems now rests on a sound foundation. Our general procedure is to define an electronic basis and a set of “active” coordinates. The former may be either molecular orbital (MO) or valence bond (VB). The equivalence of these, for the simplest mixed valence model, is explicitly demonstrated elsewhere in this volume, and such an equivalence is expected to be general. The active coordinates should be those whose equilibrium values are most strongly affected by an intervalence excitation.
On the Origin of Western Diet Pathologies

The ratio of the two sulfur-containing amino acids, methionine (Met) and cysteine (Cys), may be a determining factor for which foods contribute to longevity and health. It is shown here that substantially more Met than Cys is consistently found in foods, such as dairy and meat products, thought to contribute to pathologies associated with the Western Diet.
A THEORETICAL MODEL FOR SIMULTANEOUS CONVECTIVE AND RADIATIVE HEAT TRANSFER IN CIRCULATING FLUIDIZED BEDS

ABSTRACT A model is proposed for simultaneous convection and radiation in high temperature circulating fluidized beds. Turbulent convection is combined with discrete radiative fluxes in three transport equations, including a term for volumetric heat generation. The system of equations is nonlinear and requires numerical solution for the general case. Sample results are given for typical CFBC conditions.
Advances in the pharmacotherapy of allergic rhinitis: second-generation H1-receptor antagonists

Allergic rhinitis, whether seasonal or perennial, potentially affects up to 30% of the population. Pharmacotherapy for allergic rhinitis that is directed at symptomatic relief traditionally includes antihistamines as one of the first lines of therapy. All antihistamines are H1-receptor antagonists, or H1 blockers; they are reversible, competitive inhibitors of the actions of histamine, a critical mediator in the pathophysiology of the allergic response. Nearly all antihistamines (with the exception of the second-generation antihistamine cetirizine) are metabolized by the hepatic cytochrome P-450 system. Potentially fatal adverse effects of antihistamines may include heart arrhythmias from overdosage. Hepatic or cardiac dysfunction also predisposes to heart arrhythmias in patients who take antihistamines. Concomitant administration of macrolide antibiotics or antifungal agents with antihistamines may also predispose patients to potentially fatal heart arrhythmias. First-generation H1 blockers (e.g., the ethanolamines, ethylenediamines, alkylamines, piperazines, and phenothiazines) offer rapid relief of symptoms (usually within 15 or 30 minutes) but have the potential for significant sedation and for adverse reactions and drug interactions, as previously described. In contrast, however, the second-generation H1-antagonists (e.g., clemastine, terfenadine, astemizole, acrivastine, loratadine, and cetirizine) offer equal or superior relief but have markedly decreased sedation potential. This article compares first- and second-generation H1 blockers to provide clinicians with a better understanding of each agent's actions, potential side effects, and efficacy as antihistamine therapy.
Evaluation of Beer Flavor Compounds

(1967). Evaluation of Beer Flavor Compounds. Proceedings. Annual meeting - American Society of Brewing Chemists: Vol. 25, Proceedings of the Annual Meeting 1967, pp. 156-164.
On quasi-orthogonal polynomials: Their differential equations, discriminants and electrostatics

Abstract In this paper, we develop a general theory of quasi-orthogonal polynomials. We first derive three-term recurrence relation and second-order differential equations for quasi-orthogonal polynomials. We also give an expression for their discriminants in terms of the recursion coefficients of the corresponding orthogonal polynomials. In addition, we investigate an electrostatic equilibrium problem where the equilibrium position of movable charges is attained at the zeros of the quasi-orthogonal polynomials. The examples of the Freud weight w ( x ) = e − x 4 + 2 t x 2 and the Jacobi weight w ( x ) = ( 1 − x ) α ( 1 + x ) β are discussed in some detail. Finally, we consider the nonlinear orthogonality preserving transformation and related matrix problem.
Gender Differences in Worry About a Terrorist Attack: A Cross-National Examination of Individual- and National-Level Factors

Prior research has found gender to be associated with worry about crime and terrorism. We used World Values Survey data to assess gender differences in worry about terrorism across 54 nations. Anal...
A Nationwide Population-based Study From Taiwan Assessing the Influence of Preventable Hospitalization Rate on Mortality After Oncologic Surgery.

Objective:To determine the effect of a previously unassessed measure of quality—preventable hospitalization rate—on mortality after oncologic surgery for 4 procedures with established volume–outcome relationships. We hypothesize that hospitals with higher preventable hospitalization rates (indicatin
The Quantum Hall Effect and Hydrostatic Pressure

Hydrostatic pressure is a widely used tool that provides a great deal of insight into condensed matter physics. By shrinking the lattice constant in crystalline systems, pressure changes the Bloch wavefunction and the band structure. As a result, pressure permits us to tune material parameters in ways not possible with other techniques. In particular, we may tune the energy scales of the fractional quantum Hall states and gather information about these states from their response to pressure. Setting up a pressure measurement for cryogenic temperatures is not trivial, and many techniques must be considered to accurately apply and measure the pressure.
Time-dependent mechanical behavior of sweet sorghum stems.

Abstract Grasses represent the most productive and widely grown crop family across the globe but are susceptible to structural failure (lodging) during growth (e.g., from wind). The mechanisms that contribute to structural failure in grass stems are poorly understood due to a lack of systematic studies of their biomechanical behavior. To this end, this study examines the biomechanical properties of sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench), focusing on the time-dependent behavior of the stems. Specifically, we conducted uniaxial compression tests under ramp and creep loading on pith and stem specimens of the sorghum cultivar Della. The tests demonstrated significantly nonlinear and time-dependent stress-strain behavior in all samples. We surmise that this behavior arises from a combination of poroelasticity due to migration of water through the plant and viscoelasticity due to rearrangement of macromolecular networks, such as cellulose microfibrils and lignin matrices. Overall, our measurements demonstrate that sorghum is not a simple reversible elastic material. As such, a complete understanding of the conditions that lead to stem lodging will require knowledge of sorghum's time-dependent biomechanical properties. Of practical importance, the time-dependent biomechanical properties of the stem influence its mechanical stability under various loading conditions during growth in the field (e.g., different wind speeds).
The Effects of Affective Expectations on Experience in Individuals Varying in Anhedonia

We examined the relationship between affective expectations and experience in individuals varying in anhedonia. Individuals with anhedonia often show deficits in anticipatory pleasure but enjoy activities more than they expect they will. The purposes of this research were to (1) test whether we can manipulate the affective expectations of individuals varying in anhedonia, and (2) gain insight into how expectations affect enjoyment of activities in these individuals. In this experiment, participants were given instructions to induce high or low expectations before watching an amusing Candid Camera video. Group assignment was randomized. Expected and experienced amusement ratings were collected before and after viewing the video, respectively. We ran this experiment in two samples: MTurk and university students. The high expectation manipulation increased the expected amusement reported by individuals both high and low on anhedonia. Raising the expectations of individuals high and low on anhedonia led to greater levels experienced amusement and interest in engaging in similar activities in the future. Future research should determine whether we can use expectation effects to improve motivation in anhedonic individuals, so that they can engage in more enjoyable activities and improve their treatment outcomes.
Gambling formats, involvement, and problem gambling: which types of gambling are more risky?

The recognition of problem gambling as a public health issue has increased as the availability of gambling expands. Research has found that some formats of gambling are more closely linked to problem gambling than others. Conflicting evidence, however, has emerged, suggesting that the most important consideration is involvement (i.e., number of gambling formats an individual participates in). This debate has important implications for the regulation of gambling formats and for the allocation of problem gambling prevention and treatment services. Analyses utilized the Baseline General Population Survey (BGPS) and the Baseline Online Panel Survey (BOPS) of Massachusettscollected in 2013–2014. The BGPS contains a representative sample of 9523 Massachusetts adults and the BOPS contains a sample of 5046 Massachusetts adults. All participants were administered the same comprehensive survey of their past year gambling behavior and problem gambling symptomology. Only those who gambled regularly in the past 12 months (n = 5852) were included. The Problem and Pathological Gambling Measure was used to classify gambling behavior. Within the sample, there were 446 problem gamblers. We assessed: 1) whether some gambling formats are more related to problem gambling; 2) whether problem gambling is positively related to high involvement in gambling; 3) the relationship between involvement in gambling and intensity of gambling; and 4) whether gambling formats mediate the relationship between gambling involvement and problem gambling. Groups of monthly gamblers participating in casino gambling, bingo, and sports betting contained a higher proportion of problem gamblers. High gambling involvement was also positively associated with problem gambling; however, a large minority of gamblers experienced problems when engaging in only one or two forms of gambling. Gambling involvement was also positively associated with intensity of gambling. Therefore, intensity of gambling may be partly driving the relationship between involvement and problem gambling. Specific gambling formats mediated the relationship between involvement and problem gambling. The gambling format an individual participates in is connected to whether an individual is likely to experience problem gambling. We also found that the level of involvement (and its relationship to intensity) may affect the likelihood that an individual will experience problematic gambling behavior. Ultimately, the type of gambling format an individual partakes in does mediate the relationship between problem gambling and involvement. In Massachusetts, participating in casino gambling was more closely associated with problem gambling than other formats across all levels of involvement.
Indices of change in exposure and response prevention for contamination-based OCD.

Abstract Few studies have examined indices of change in treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). The current study evaluated within- and between-session trajectories of fear, disgust, and urge to wash in exposure and response prevention (ERP) for contamination-based OCD and tested whether change in these indices were associated with treatment outcomes. Forty-one participants (75.6% female) engaged in three sessions of ERP for contamination OCD. Participants provided ratings of fear, disgust, and urge to wash during each session, and contamination symptoms were assessed at pre- and post-treatment and two-week follow-up. Fear, disgust, and urge to wash all significantly decreased both within and between sessions. Both fear and disgust declined significantly faster than urge to wash within session, though declines in fear and disgust did not significantly differ from each other. Within-session changes in fear were significantly associated with reduced symptoms at post-treatment, whereas within-session changes in disgust were associated with symptoms at two-week follow-up. The current study highlights the roles of fear and disgust in the context of ERP as unique indicators of treatment outcome for contamination-based OCD. Only within-session fear was uniquely associated with treatment outcome at post, while within-session disgust predicted outcome at follow-up. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.
Policy, Risk and Spillover Analysis in the World Economy; A Panel Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium Approach

This paper develops a structural macroeconometric model of the world economy, disaggregated into forty national economies, to facilitate multilaterally consistent macrofinancial policy, risk and spillover analysis. This panel dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model features a range of nominal and real rigidities, extensive macrofinancial linkages, and diverse spillover transmission channels. These macrofinancial linkages encompass bank and capital market based financial intermediation, with financial accelerator mechanisms linked to the values of the housing and physical capital stocks. A variety of monetary policy analysis, fiscal policy analysis, macroprudential policy analysis, spillover analysis, and forecasting applications of the estimated model are demonstrated. These include quantifying the monetary, fiscal and macroprudential transmission mechanisms, accounting for business cycle fluctuations, and generating relatively accurate forecasts of inflation and output growth.
BCRP/ABCG2 Transporter Regulates Accumulation of Cadmium in Kidney Cells: Role of the Q141K Variant in Modulating Nephrotoxicity.

Exposure to the environmental pollutant cadmium is ubiquitous, as it is present in cigarette smoke and the food supply. Over time, cadmium enters and accumulates in the kidneys, where it causes tubular injury. The breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP, ATP-Binding Cassette G2 ABCG2) is an efflux transporter that mediates the urinary secretion of pharmaceuticals and toxins. The ABCG2 genetic variant Q141K exhibits altered membrane trafficking that results in reduced efflux of BCRP substrates. Here, we sought to 1) evaluate the in vitro and in vivo ability of BCRP to transport cadmium and protect kidney cells from toxicity and 2) determine whether this protection is impaired by the Q141K variant. Cadmium concentrations, cellular stress, and toxicity were quantified in human embryonic kidney 293 cells expressing an empty vector (EV), BCRP wild-type (WT), or variant (Q141K) gene. Treatment with CdCl2 resulted in greater accumulation of cadmium and apoptosis in EV cells relative to WT cells. Exposure to CdCl2 induced expression of stress-related genes and proteins including MT-1A/MT-2A, NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1, and heme oxygenase-1 to a higher extent in EV cells compared with WT cells. Notably, the Q141K variant protected against CdCl2-induced activation of stress genes and cytotoxicity, but this protection was to a lesser magnitude than observed with WT BCRP. Lastly, concentrations of cadmium in the kidneys of Bcrp knockout mice were 40% higher than in WT mice, confirming that cadmium is an in vivo substrate of BCRP. In conclusion, BCRP prevents the accumulation of cadmium and protects against toxicity, a response that is impaired by the Q141K variant. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The breast cancer resistance protein transporter lowers cellular accumulation of the toxic heavy metal cadmium. This protective function is partially attenuated by the Q141K genetic variant in the ABCG2 gene.
Collision-tolerant Autonomous Navigation through Manhole-sized Confined Environments

This work presents the design, development and autonomous navigation of the Resilient Micro Flyer, a new type of collision-tolerant small aerial robot tailored to traversing and searching within highly confined environments including manhole-sized tubes. The robot is particularly lightweight and agile, while it implements a collision-tolerant design which renders it resilient during forcible interaction with the environment. The overall rigid design of the system is enhanced through elastic passive flaps ensuring smoother and more compliant collision which was identified to be especially useful in very confined settings. Focusing on autonomous operations in narrow environments, the presented research realizes four key functionalities, namely a) visual-inertial odometry for pose estimation, b) a policy for sufficient clearance from nearby objects relying purely on four ultra-lightweight time-of-flight sensors, c) the detection of collisions with the environment as an anomaly on the inertial measurement data, and d) the direct mechanical feedback-based self-centering and smooth traversal of very tight spaces based on its elastic flaps. The final system prototype is capable of 14min of endurance and weighs less than 500g. A comprehensive experimental study is presented in which the robot is tasked to navigate through two rooms connected via a manhole-sized (width × height equal to 0.5×0.4m) tube with a length of 2.5m.
Trump’s authoritarian neoliberal governance and the US-Mexican border

This article considers how US border policy and the rhetorical use of the construction of a border wall between the United States and Mexico expands our understanding of the authoritarian neolibera...