cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Correlational structure as a determinant of goodness of complex patterns.

Summary.-The stimulus sets used by Whitman and Garner (1962) to study the effect of form of redundanq on free-recall learning were arranged in 3 X 3 configurations to form single patterns. Various spatial arrangements of the 9 figures in each of the 3 sets tested several questions regarding judged goodness of form. Rating of goodness of form on a 7-point scale were made by 32 college students. Patterns composed of elements which have correlated structure in the form of simple contingencies, and which Whitman and Garner found were easily learned in free recall, are good; patterns composed of elements which have correlational structure in the form of complex interactions, and which Whitman and Garner found were extremely difficult to learn, are not. Uncertainty calculated for spatial position using 2-dimensional Cartesian coordinates as variables does not appear to be associated with panern goodness. However, spatial arrangements of the elements exert a very strong effect on pattern goodness.
Controlling the nuclear polarization in quantum dots using optical pulse shape with a modest bandwidth

We show that detuned optical pulse trains with a modest spectral width can polarize nuclear spins in indium arsenide quantum dots. The pulse bandwidth is large enough to excite a coherent superposition of both electron spin eigenstates in these negatively charged dots but narrow enough to give partial spectral selectivity between the eigenstates. The coherent precession of electron spin states and periodic excitation focuses the nuclear spin distribution, producing a discrete set of precession modes. The spectral selectivity generates a net nuclear polarization through a mechanism that relies on optical spin rotations rather than electron spin relaxation.
Antiapoptotic effects of nicotine in its protection against salsolinol-induced cytotoxicity

Salsolinol (1-methyl-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline), a metabolite of dopamine, may act as an endogenous neurotoxin and contribute to the etiology of Parkinson's disease (PD). The inverse relationship between smoking and PD prompted our previous investigation and the report of protective effects of nicotine against salsolinol-induced toxicity in cultured SH-SY5Y cells (Copeland et al., Neurotox. Res. 8:289, 2005). These cells, derived from human neuroblastoma cells, express dopaminergic activity and are used as a model of nigral dopaminergic cells, the major site of pathology in PD. The purpose of the current study was to investigate whether apoptotic or antiapoptotic mechanisms were responsible for the observed effects of salsolinol and nicotine, respectively. Moreover, it was of interest to determine whether the actions of nicotine are mediated through nicotinic receptors. SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to 0.4 or 0.7 mM salsolinol with and without pretreatment in combination of 0.1 mM nicotine and 0.1 mM mecamylamine and were exposed for 24 and 48 h. Various parameters including cell cycle perturbations (reflected in propidium iodide DNA staining); cell cycle regulator retinoblastoma protein (reflected in the Western blot), apoptosis (reflected in annexin V/propidium iodide staining followed by flow cytometry) were analyzed. Salsolinol caused an arrest of the cells in G1-phase of cell cycle and an increase in apoptotic indices, whereas pretreatment with nicotine attenuated or completely blocked the effects of salsolinol. Nicotine effects in turn, were totally blocked by mecamylamine (0.1 mM). The results suggest that apoptosis is a major mechanism for salsolinol-induced toxicity and that antiapoptotic effects of nicotine, mediated by nicotinic receptors, may play a primary role in its neuroprotective effects. Hence, nicotinic agonists in combination with other antiapoptotic agents may be of substantial benefit in at least a subpopulation of Parkinson patients.
LSD before Leary: Sidney Cohen's Critique of 1950s Psychedelic Drug Research

In 1962 Sidney Cohen presented the medical community with its first warning about the dangers of the drug LSD. LSD had arrived in the United States in 1949 and was originally perceived as a psychotomimetic capable of producing a model psychosis. But in the mid 1950s intellectuals in Southern California redefined LSD as a psychedelic capable of producing mystical enlightenment. Though LSD was an investigational drug, authorized only for experimental use, by the late 1950s psychiatrists and psychologists were administering it to cure neuroses and alcoholism and to enhance creativity. Cohen's 1960 study of LSD effects concluded that the drug was safe if given in a supervised medical setting, but by 1962 his concern about popularization, nonmedical use, black market LSD, and patients harmed by the drug led him to warn that the spread of LSD was dangerous. The subsequent government crackdown and regulation of LSD preceded the 1960s drug movement and was prompted by medical, not social, concerns.
Fly ash characterization by SEM-EDS

A study conducted at the National Energy Technology Laboratory characterized twelve Class F fly ash samples from nine PC power plants in PA, WV, MD and TN, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Both the surface and internal structure of fly ash particles were analyzed. All of the fly ash samples were comprised mainly of amorphous alumino-silicate spheres and a smaller amount of iron-rich spheres. The majority of the iron-rich spheres had two components: iron oxide and amorphous alumino-silicate. Both materials were apparent on the particle surface, and cross-sections clearly showed that the iron oxide and alumino-silicate were mixed throughout the fly ash particles. Calcium, the fourth most abundant element in the fly ash, was associated with oxygen, sulfur or phosphorous, not with silicon or aluminum. The calcium-rich material was distinct in both elemental composition and texture from the amorphous alumino-silicate spheres. The elemental concentrations, as determined by EDS, were consistent with ICP-OES and X-ray diffraction data.
Pricing Insurance and Warranties: Ambiguity and Correlated Risks

This paper reports on the results of a questionnaire study of pricing decisions made by professional actuaries when the probabilities of a loss are either ambiguous or nonambiguous. Theoretical hypotheses derived from the expected utility model were compared with the implications of procedures described by practicing actuaries. Actuaries were asked to act as consultants to a computer manufacturer concerning the price of a warranty. The suggested prices were considerably higher when probabilities were ambiguous than when they were well-specified. These pricing decisions were consistent with the procedures described by actuaries but inconsistent with predictions from expected utility theory when the risks are perfectly correlated. Further insight into the actual decision process is provided by interviews with actuaries and an analysis of comments written on the questionnaire forms.
Substitution and cyclization reactions involving the quasi-antiaromatic 2H-indol-2-one ring system.

The quasi-antiaromatic 2H-indol-2-one ring system is readily generated by treating a 3-hydroxy-substituted 1,3-dihydroindol-2-one with a Lewis acid. Stepwise addition of various π-nucleophiles to the highly reactive 2H-indol-2-one system occurs smoothly to afford substituted oxindoles. The cyclization was also carried out in an intramolecular fashion to give spiro-substituted oxindoles in good yield.
NITROGEN ASSIMILATION, ROOT GROWTH AND WHOLE PLANT RESPONSES OF SOYBEAN TO ROOT TEMPERATURE, AND TO CARBON DIOXIDE AND LIGHT IN THE AERIAL ENVIRONMENT *

SUMMARY indicated by dry matter accumulation, net flux of photosynthate to the roots was correlated with the changes in aerial environment. It was concluded from these relationships that the variation in root growth and nitrate uptake resulted from altered utilization of carbohydrates in the roots and that altered utilization of carbohydrates with increasing root temperature resulted from disproportionate partitioning of carbohydrate among root functions. Although differences occurred in the amount of nitrogen translocated out of the root, nitrogen accumulation in the shoot was primarily a function of nitrate absorbed. Restrictions in dry matter accumulation in the shoot were similar to restrictions observed in the root. A decrease in emergence of new leaves was often the first response observed, with decreases in leaf area and dry wt occurring later. The integrated plant response to moderate root temperature stress is interpreted as evidence for an interdependent plant system, predominantly regulated by carbohydrate flux to the root and nitrogen flux to the shoot.
Perturbation analysis gives strongly consistent sensitivity estimates for the M/G/ 1 queue

The technique of perturbation analysis has recently been introduced as an efficient way to compute parameter sensitivities for discrete event systems. Thus far, the statistical properties of perturbation analysis have been validated mainly through experiments. This paper considers, for an M/G/1 queueing system, the sensitivity of mean system time of a customer to a parameter of the arrival or service distribution. It shows analytically that (i) the steady state value of the perturbation analysis estimate of this sensitivity is unbiased, and (ii) a perturbation analysis algorithm implemented on a single sample path of the system gives asymptotically unbiased and strongly consistent estimates of this sensitivity. (No previous knowledge of perturbation analysis is assumed, so the paper also serves to introduce this technique to the unfamiliar reader.) Numerical extensions to GI/G/1 queues, and applications to optimization problems, are also illustrated.
Parasites, pathogens, and invasions by plants and animals

Biological invasions cause billions of dollars in economic damage each year and are a serious threat to native biodiversity. Introduced animals and plants may escape 75% or more of the parasite and pathogen species from their native range. While they do accumulate novel parasite species from their new location, this number is generally only a fraction of the number lost. Individual plants and animals are also generally less frequently infected (prevalence minus percent individuals infected) in introduced compared to native conspecific populations. In conjunction with other biological and physical factors, release from parasites helps explain the increased demographic performance of invasive species, potentially accounting for much of the damage they cause.
Dynamical Calculations of Pseudoscalar and Axial-Vector Meson Parameters Using the Relativistic Lippmann-Schwinger Equation

Abstract : A multichannel dynamical calculation of pseudoscalar and axial vector meson parameters is performed using the relativistic Lippmann-Schwinger equation. The channel considered is PV to PV. The potential is computed using the usual Feynman rules and the resulting equations are solved on a computer. The cut-off is fixed by adjusting the output mass of one resonance or bound state or the output width to the experimental value. (Author)
Hardware and software techniques for power conservation in portable devices

Battery life and weight are critical to the success of any portable product. When trying to extend the operating time of any portable product, it is very important to pay attention not only to the large details but the small ones as well. For instance, the most significant way to drop power consumption in HCMOS systems is to lower the frequency of operation and lower the operating voltage. Using low power stop modes, the real time interrupt, cutting off modules that are not in use even for short periods of time contributes to overall power savings. When taken as a whole, the little items, the things that save one to ten milliamperes for short periods, amount to big overall power savings. >
Experimental aspects of renal tumors.

Spontaneously observed and exogenously induced renal tumors in mice and rats have been described. Occasionally occurring tumors in other species have been reviewed. The relationships between the spontaneously observed and induced tumors and endocrine factors are reviewed. Practical applications for the use of induced tumors as screening techniques for chemotherapy of advanced renal cancer in man are discussed. Limitations in the present models are apparent. Both hormonal and nonhormonal environments can effect relative growth rates in several species of the induced tumors. Common metabolic pathways in several of the alkylating agents for the inductions of renal tumors are described. The virus relationships to frog tumors have been appreciated for some time and have been further studied. Present clinical problems and controversies, however, remain. Important areas for further study of these models can provide helpful clinical information and have been discussed.
Quantitative Versus Qualitative Methods in Evaluation of T2 Signal Intensity to Improve Accuracy in Diagnosis of Pheochromocytoma

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to assess T2 signal intensity (SI) of adrenal pheochromocytoma at 1.5 T using the rapid acquisitions with relaxation enhancement (RARE) sequence. We also sought to determine whether quantitative parameters can distinguish pheochromocytoma from other adrenal lesions with better accuracy than conventional qualitative methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS. MRI examinations of 74 patients (26 with pheochromocytoma, 25 with lipid-poor adenomas, 18 with malignant adrenal lesions, and five with adrenal cysts) were retrospectively reviewed. MRI sequences included single-shot fast spin-echo (n = 38) and fast-recovery fast spin-echo (n = 36) acquisitions. T2 SI of lesions was qualitatively compared with CSF. Quantitative evaluation included applying ROI measurements and calculating SI ratio of each mass to liver, spleen, paraspinal muscle, and CSF. Twoway ANOVA compared SI ratios between different adrenal lesions and between two pulse sequences. ROC analysis determined the optimal ...
Effect of carrier preimmunization on neutralizing antibody response of rabbits immunized with beta-human chorionic gonadotropin coupled to tetanus toxoid

Abstract Antisera to the conjugate of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin and tetanus toxoid (βhCG-TT) generated in rabbits receiving TT carrier preimmunization were characterized and compared with antisera from rabbits receiving the conjugate without preimmunization. Double immunodiffusion and immunoelectrophoresis were used to identify individual antisera components to the conjugate and its substructures. 125IhCG radioimmunoassay indicated similar antibody titers (P = 0.447) regardless of whether the rabbits were preimmunized with TT. However, bioneutralization of native hCG as measured by inhibition of prepubertal rat uterine weight increase was significantly more effective (P = 0.025) with antisera from rabbits which received carrier presensitization. These results demonstrate that carrier preimmunization provides a method for increasing the efficacy of neutralizing antibody produced against haptenic βhCG.
Deposition of yttrium oxide thin films in supercritical carbon dioxide

Abstract A synthetic avenue for the formation of yttrium oxide thin films on Si native oxide surfaces is demonstrated by the reaction of Tris(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionato) yttrium(III) with inorganic (H2O2) and organic (tert-butyl and di-tert-amyl) peroxides in supercritical carbon dioxide. The reactions are carried out in a hot wall reactor at temperatures below 130 °C and pressures ranging from 13.10 to 22.75 MPa. Spectroscopic Ellipsometry verifies thin film formation and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy measurements confirm formation of yttrium oxide films and the presence of carbonate and hydroxide species which are removed after high temperature anneals.
Spectroscopic observations on the nature of passivity

Abstract Spectroscopic characterizations of passive films on iron are reviewed. Some results obtained from Mossbauer, Auger, XPS, ISS, SIMS, ellipsometry and radiotracer measurements are discussed in the light of understanding the nature of passive films. It is evident from the spectroscopic investigations that the amorphous character due to the presence of water is an essential part of iron passivity.
Multiobjective Optimization: An Educational Opportunity in Power Engineering

This letter describes multiobjective optimization as a topic to be included in an undergraduate electric power engineering curriculum.
Introducing students to expert systems

Abstract: The emerging field of expert systems requires universities to address the educational requirements necessary to prepare students to enter and contribute to this field. This paper provides a guideline to educators on how to effectively introduce students to expert systems. This guideline describes the major objectives of an introductory course on expert systems, course topics, course material, and insight into how to effectively present the course. The recommendations made in this paper are a product of the experiences of the author gained over years of presenting such a course.
Salmon policy: science, society, restoration, and reality

Abstract Salmon policy in the Pacific Northwest illustrates a class of contentious, socially wrenching issues that are becoming increasingly common in the western United States as demands increase for limited ecological resources. Many Pacific salmon “stocks” (a term used in fisheries management for a group of interbreeding individuals that is roughly equivalent to “population”) have declined and some have been extirpated. The salmon “problem” is one of the most vexing public policy challenges in natural resource management. Even with complete scientific knowledge — and scientific knowledge is far from complete or certain — it would be a challenging policy problem. The salmon decline issue is often defined simplistically as a watershed management problem, in part because changes in watersheds are highly visible and often occur on public or corporate lands where individuals and organizations often have direct input to decision making. Yet, changes in climate and ocean conditions, for example, occur frequently and such changes have a major influence on salmon abundance. The scientific challenges are great, but the more difficult — and critical — aspect of the debate concerns policies and decisions affecting everyone, including those involved in rural enterprises (especially farming and logging); manufacturing and construction; electricity generation (including hydro, fossil fuel, and nuclear); national defense; urban development; transportation (including road, rail, air, and water). The debate also involves competing personal rights and freedoms; the prerogatives and roles of local, state, and federal government and Indian tribes; policies on human population level, reproduction, emigration, and immigration; and the future of fishing (commercial, recreational, and Indian). The salmon policy conundrum is characterized by: (1) nearly everyone claims to support maintaining wild salmon runs; (2) many competing societal priorities exist, many of which are partially or wholly mutually exclusive; (3) the region’s rapidly growing human population creates increasing pressures on all natural resources (including salmon and their habitats); (4) policy stances in the salmon debate are solidly entrenched; (5) society expects salmon experts to help solve the salmon problem; (6) each of the many sides of the political debate over the future of salmon use salmon experts and scientific “facts” to bolster its argument; (7) it has proved to be nearly impossible for salmon scientists to avoid being categorized as supporting a particular policy position; and (8) many advocates of policy positions couch their positions in scientific terms rather than value-based preferences. Although far from indisputable, I conclude that over the next century and allowing for considerable year-to-year and decade-to-decade variation, many, perhaps most, stocks of wild salmon in the Pacific Northwest likely will remain at their current low levels or continue to decline in spite of costly protection and restoration efforts.
GliaSite Brachytherapy Boost as Part of Initial Treatment of Glioblastoma Multiforme: A Retrospective Multi-Institutional Pilot Study

Purpose: To report on a retrospective analysis of the cumulative experience from eight institutions using the GliaSite Radiotherapy System as a brachytherapy boost in the initial management of glioblastoma multiforme. Methods and Materials: Eight institutions provided data on 20 patients with histologically proven glioblastoma multiforme with a median age of 59 years (range, 39–76) and median Karnofsky performance scale of 80 (range, 50–100). After maximal surgical debulking, patients were treated with GliaSite brachytherapy to a median dose of 50 Gy, followed by external beam radiotherapy to a median dose of 60 Gy (range, 46–60 Gy), for a cumulative dose escalation of 110 Gy (range, 84–130 Gy). Results: The average survival for this study population was 11.4 months (range, 4–29). When the patients’ survival was compared with that of historical controls according to their Radiation Therapy Oncology Group recursive partitioning analysis class, the average survival was increased by 3 months (95% confidence interval, 0.23–4.9) corresponding to a 43% increase (p = 0.033). Three patients (14%) experienced Radiation Therapy Oncology Group Grade 3 central nervous system toxicity. Of the treatment failures, 50% were >2 cm from the edge of the balloon. Conclusion: The results of this analysis have demonstrated that dose escalation (>100 Gy) with GliaSite is well tolerated and associated with minimal toxicity. Local control improved with the use of GliaSite brachytherapy. The putative survival advantage seen in this study needs to be interpreted with caution; nevertheless, the data provide sufficient justification to investigate the potential role of radiation dose escalation in conjunction with GliaSite in the initial treatment of glioblastoma multiforme.
PO-0981 A Novel Mutation Of Ipex Syndrome In A Paediatric Patient

Background Immunodysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked (IPEX) syndrome is a rare disorder characterised by multiple autoimmunity. Mutations in the fork head box P3 (FOXP3) gene, in chromosome Xp11.23, result in reduced numbers or a complete absence of CD4 + regulatory T (Treg) cells and therefore in a variety of clinical presentation. Methods We present the case of a 3-year old male with clinical and laboratory findings of IPEX and a novel mutation of the FOXP3 gene. Results A 3-year Chinese male was admitted to the 3rd Clinic of the First Paediatrics of University of Athens, Greece, due to critical malnutrition. Severe diarrhoea and malabsorption were the predominant symptoms; therefore the administration of long term TPN was essential. The patient underwent a colonoscopy which revealed autoimmune enteropathy, while Diabetes type I, the other major clinical finding, required strict dietary program and insulin administration. Our patient was set on steroids and azathioprine, which was withdrawn however due to cholestasis on day 107. Patient’s laboratory findings were constant with immunodeficiency (low immunoglobulins IgA and IgM), nevertheless, the flow cytometry revealed normal number of CD4 + /CD25 + regulatory cells. Under the strong suspicion of IPEX syndrome, a molecular analysis was performed and a novel mutation, c.1161G-p. H387Q in FOXP3 gene was identified, confirming the diagnosis. Conclusions A total of 13 allelic variants in FOXP3 have been described so far, leading into different phenotypes of IPEX syndrome. The genetic variant c.1161G has been associated with hepatocellular carcinoma in Chinese population, but has never been reported in IPEX syndrome.
Statistical process control for computer intrusion detection

This paper describes the architecture of a distributed, host-based Intrusion Detection System (IDS) that we have developed at the Information and Systems Assurance Laboratory (ISA), Arizona State University (hence, ISA-IDS). ISA-IDS is developed based on statistical process control (SPC). In ISA-IDS we employ two intrusion detection techniques. One is an anomaly detection technique called Chi-square. Another is a misuse detection technique called Clustering. Each technique determines an intrusion warning (IW) level for each audit event. The IW levels from different intrusion detection techniques are then combined using a fusion technique into a composite IW level, 0 for normal, 1 for intrusive, and any value in between to signify, the intrusiveness. We also present the intrusion detection performance of the Chi-square and Clustering techniques.
SECOND BREAKDOWN AND SAFE OPERATING AREA OF E-MODE POWER pHEMTs

The safe operating area of E-pHEMTs have been explored using device simulations. It is proposed that the second breakdown is triggered by the debiasing of the channel potential due to the gate reverse current at high drain voltages. A mathematical description of this behavior and experimental results are presented.
Approaches to Answering Critical CER Questions

While randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the gold standard for research, many research questions cannot be ethically and practically answered using an RCT. Comparative effectiveness research (CER) techniques are often better suited than RCTs to address the effects of an intervention under routine care conditions, an outcome otherwise known as effectiveness. CER research techniques covered in this section include: effectiveness-oriented experimental studies such as pragmatic trials and cluster randomized trials, treatment response heterogeneity, observational and database studies including adjustment techniques such as sensitivity analysis and propensity score analysis, systematic reviews and meta-analysis, decision analysis, and cost effectiveness analysis. Each section describes the technique and covers the strengths and weaknesses of the approach.
The Microeconomics of Engagement: Marketization and Trust in China-North Korea Trade

A central hope of the strategy of engagement is that increased cross-border exchanges with North Korea will have the effect of encouraging the process of marketization and ultimately contribute to a moderation of the country’s foreign policy. Results from a unique survey of Chinese enterprises operating in North Korea reveal that trade is still largely dominated by state entities on the North Korean side, although we cannot rule out de facto privatization of exchange. However little trust is evident beyond the relationships among Chinese and North Korean state-owned enterprises. Formal networks and institutions - including dispute settlement mechanisms - are weak and do not appear to have consequences for relational contracting. Rather, firms rely on personal ties for identifying counterparties and resolving disputes. The weakness of formal institutions implies that the rapid growth in exchange does not conform with the expectations of the engagement model and may prove self-limiting. The results also cast doubt that engagement between China and North Korea, at least as it is currently proceeding, will foster reform and opening in the country.
Extrinsic and intrinsic motivation on work engagement in the hospitality industry: Test of motivation crowding theory:

The aim of this study was to examine extrinsic and intrinsic motivations as the antecedents of work engagement and to empirically test the motivation crowding theory using hospitality employees. Th...
Nanotherapy silencing the interleukin-8 gene produces regression of prostate cancer by inhibition of angiogenesis

Interleukin-8 (IL-8) is a pro-angiogenic cytokine associated with aggressive prostate cancer (CaP). We detected high levels of IL-8 in sera from patients with CaP compared with healthy controls and patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy. This study examines the role of IL-8 in the pathogenesis of metastatic prostate cancer. We developed a biocompatible, cationic polylactide (CPLA) nanocarrier to complex with and efficiently deliver IL-8 small interfering RNA (siRNA) to CaP cells in vitro and in vivo. CPLA IL-8 siRNA nanocomplexes (nanoplexes) protect siRNA from rapid degradation, are non-toxic, have a prolonged lifetime in circulation, and their net positive charge facilitates penetration of cell membranes and subsequent intracellular trafficking. Administration of CPLA IL-8 siRNA nanoplexes to immunodeficient mice bearing human CaP tumours produced significant antitumour activities with no adverse effects. Systemic (intravenous) or local intra-tumour administration of IL-8 siRNA nanoplexes resulted in significant inhibition of CaP growth. Magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography of experimental animals demonstrated reduction of tumour perfusion in vivo following nanoplex treatment. Staining of tumour sections for CD31 confirmed significant damage to tumour neovasculature after nanoplex therapy. These studies demonstrate the efficacy of IL-8 siRNA nanotherapy for advanced, treatment-resistant human CaP.
Research of Chinese Character Auto-generation Technology Based on the Dynamic Description Library

At present Chinese character formation is still manual labour and artificial design,combined with Chinese characters of the great amount of data until now does not have a suitable font automation generation tool can use.In view of this problem it puts forward a auto-generation technology of the Chinese character glyph based on font library.it first Chinese characters font mapped to font description library and will Chinese character glyph digital take glyph description library as the bridge,and then through the search glyph description library find Chinese characters corresponding frame information,extraction strokes of a Chinese character skeleton.Finally,the data of the reverse process will be the strokes of a Chinese character skeleton information reduction for all kinds of Chinese characters glyph,forming characters font library.
Crystal structure of zwitterionic 2-[bis-(2-meth-oxy-phen-yl)phosphanium-yl]-4-methyl-benzene-sulfonate monohydrate di-chloro-methane monosolvate.

In the title compound, C21H21O5PS·H2O·CH2Cl2, the phospho­nium–sulfonate zwitterion has the acidic H atom located on the P atom rather than the sulfonate group. The S—O bond lengths [1.4453 (15)–1.4521 (14) A] are essentially equal. In the crystal, the water mol­ecules bridge two zwitterions via Owater—H⋯Osulfonate hydrogen bonds into a centrosymmetric dimer. The dimers are further linked by weak CAr­yl—H⋯Osulfonate hydrogen bonds into chains extending along [100]. The PH+ group is not involved in inter­molecular inter­actions.
Five-year followup of the Scott inflatable penile prosthesis and comparison with semirigid penile prosthesis.

AbstractThe Scott inflatable penile prosthesis**American Medical Systems, Minnetonka, Minnesota. remains one of the most popular devices available for the surgical treatment of impotence despite high complication and reoperation rates. We present our 5-year followup of 116 inflatable prostheses placed before 1981 in 85 patients, with a 61 per cent over-all 5-year complication rate. The incidence of complications by year after operation showed that most (22 per cent) devices failed within 1 year after implantation, with failure rates gradually decreasing to 6 and 7 per cent during years 4 and 5, respectively. Of 85 patients receiving an inflatable prosthesis 61 per cent underwent reoperation during the 5-year followup. A 5-year over-all complication rate of only 14 per cent was seen in 29 Small-Carrion semirigid prostheses implanted during the same time. The results of numerous recent improvements in the design and structure of the Scott inflatable penile prosthesis to prevent mechanical device failure rem...
Effective network vulnerability assessment through model abstraction

A significant challenge in evaluating network security stems from the scale of modern enterprise networks and the vast number of vulnerabilities regularly found in software applications. A common technique to deal with this complexity is attack graphs, where a tool automatically computes all possible ways a system can be broken into by analyzing the configuration of each host, the network, and the discovered vulnerabilities. Past work has proposed methodologies that postprocess "raw" attack graphs so that the result can be abstracted and becomes easier for a human user to grasp. We notice that, while visualization is a major problem caused by the multitude of attack paths in an attack graph, a more severe problem is the distorted risk picture it renders to both human users and quantitative vulnerability assessment models. We propose that abstraction be done before attack graphs are computed, instead of after. This way we can prevent the distortion in quantitative vulnerability assessment metrics, at the same time improving visualization as well. We developed an abstract network model generator that, given reachability and configuration information of a network, provides an abstracted model with much more succinct information about the system than the raw model. The model is generated by grouping hosts based on their network reachability and vulnerability information, as well as grouping vulnerabilities with similar exploitability. We show that the attack graphs generated from this type of abstracted inputs are not only much smaller, but also provide more realistic quantitative vulnerability metrics for the whole system. We conducted experiments on both synthesized and production systems to demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach.
An HSV-based library screen identifies PP1α as a negative TRPV1 regulator with analgesic activity in models of pain

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is a pronociceptive cation channel involved in persistent inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) vector expression of TRPV1 causes cell death in the presence of capsaicin, thereby completely blocking virus replication. Here we describe a selection system for negative regulators of TRPV1 based on rescue of virus replication. HSV-based coexpression of TRPV1 and a PC12 cell-derived cDNA library identified protein phosphatase 1α (PP1α) as a negative regulator of TRPV1, mimicking the activity of "poreless" (PL), a dominant-negative mutant of TRPV1. Vectors expressing PP1α or PL reduced thermal sensitivity following virus injection into rat footpads, but failed to reduce the nocifensive responses to menthol/icilin-activated cold pain or formalin, demonstrating that the activity identified in vitro is functional in vivo with a degree of specificity. This system should prove powerful for identifying other cellular factors that can inhibit ion channel activity.
Communicating Energy in a Climate (of) Crisis

We review energy communication, an emerging subfield of communication studies that examines the role of energy in society, and argue that it is dominated by a crisis frame. Whereas this frame can be productive, it can also be limiting. In response, we propose three areas for future energy communication research—internal rhetoric of science, comparative studies, and energy in everyday life—as starting points for rethinking and expanding energy communication. This expanded focus will continue to contribute to communication theory, add to interdisciplinary energy studies, and supply practical resources for the creation and deployment of just and sustainable energy futures.
CHAPTER 254 – Control of Left-Right (L/R) Determination in Vertebrates by the Hedgehog Signaling Pathway

Although the bodies of most vertebrate animals appear to be almost perfectly symmetrical, profound left-right (L/R) asymmetries exist that are clearly demonstrated by the specific disposition of internal organs. At another level, there is also asymmetry in the activity of the brain with specific functions performed by each individual brain hemisphere, resulting in asymmetries in locomotor functions (among which being right- or left-handed is only one well-known manifestation). The normal disposition of organs is called situs solitus, and situs inversus refers to a complete or near-complete mirror-image reversal of organ disposition. Right or left isomerism usually refers to situations where individual organs are bilaterally symmetric. Although the mechanisms that break the initial symmetry may be very different in chick and mouse embryos, the basic role of HH signaling as a left determinant appears to be conserved during evolution, as is the left-specific expression of the Nodal gene. Without a doubt, the characterization of additional components of HH signaling pathways and of their roles in the early vertebrate embryo will still provide very valuable information about the mechanisms that control L/R determination during early embryogenesis.
On the bandwidth of small dipoles and the electric polarizability

Recent theoretical developments suggest that the low-frequency electric polarizability is a key factor in determining bandwidth bounds for electrically small dipole antennas. Using example designs of cylindrical shape, bandwidth properties in terms of the radiation Q and the associated electric polarizabilities are numerically investigated. Strong correlation is observed between the polarizability and the achieved bandwidth values. It suggests that a structure with the bounding surface that is close to that of the given design space is a good candidate for maximum bandwidth performance.
Theorizing the Ukrainian Case: Pushing the Boundaries of Migration Studies Through a Europe–US Comparison

What theoretical lessons does the Ukrainian case provide for the interdisciplinary field of migration studies? Drawing on extensive interview and ethnographic data from Ukrainian migrants, their families and community leaders in three countries – Italy, the United States and Ukraine – this chapter argues that theorizing the Ukrainian case pushes the boundaries of migration studies in new and important directions. First, Ukraine highlights the importance of transnational space in understanding nation-statebuilding processes. Second, it highlights that migration patterns produce different effects in the migration practices and subjectivities of migrants in the receiving country as well as different outcomes in the sending country. Finally, the Ukrainian case highlights the importance and the specificity of the sending state and the relationship between sending state and emigrants embedded in different migration patterns, challenging existing knowledge about migration and global processes.
PMA Responsive Sequence (s) in Gαq Promoter during Megakaryocytic Differentiation.

Human erthroleukemia cells (HEL) differentiate towards megakaryocytic (MK) phenotype when stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA). We observed that the expression of Gq, a protein that plays a major role in platelet signal transduction, is increased in PMA-treated HEL cells. Western blotting revealed that Gq is upregulated in PMA-treated cells relative to untreated cells. Gq gene induction by PMA treatment was investigated with respect to transcriptional control. Serial 5′-truncations of the upstream region (upto 2727 bp from the ATG) of Gq gene were fused to a luciferase (Luc) reporter gene vector, PGL-3 Basic, and were transiently transfected into HEL cells in the absence and presence of PMA (10 nM). After 24 h, reporter gene activities were measured using Dual Luciferase Reporter Assay System (Promega). A reporter plasmid −1042 bp-Luc with a genomic region −1042/−1 showed a 12 fold activity in PMA treated cells and 4 fold activity in untreated cells. Its truncated plasmid with the genomic region −1036/−1 showed a decrease in luciferase activity by 50% in treated cells; and the activity became identical to that in untreated cells. Further truncation between −1036 and −1011 caused a complete loss of activity in both the cells. Thus, a PMA responsive element was localized to a region between −1042 and −1037 bp. Transcription factor data base search (TFSEARCH) predicted two consensus sites for early growth response factor EGR-1 at -1042/−1031 and −1026/−1015. Gel shift studies were performed with two oligos, −1042/−1012 and −1036/−1012, and nuclear extracts from PMA- treated and untreated cells. The studies with −1042/−1012 probe and extracts from treated cells showed that there was nuclear protein binding, which was abolished by competition with the consensus EGR-1 sequence. In extracts from untreated cells, the protein binding was observed but was not competed with consensus EGR-1 sequence. This suggests EGR-1 binding to the region −1042/−1012 in PMA-treated cells and role for this transcription factor in inducing Gq promoter activity. Moreover, studies on the region −1036/−1012 showed nuclear protein binding that was identical between extracts of untreated and treated cells, and it was not competed with consensus EGR-1 sequence. These findings suggest that, EGR-1 binding is localized to −1042/−1037, but not to −1036/−1012. Conclusion: A PMA responsive sequence (−1042/−1037) was identified in the Gq promoter. Our studies suggest that EGR-1 binding to this sequence confers the PMA responsive activity. These studies provide further evidence that EGR-1 plays an important role in the upregulation of Gq expression during PMA induced megakaryocytic differentiation.
Foreign-accented speaker identity affects neural correlates of language comprehension

Abstract This study tested semantic and grammatical processing of native- and foreign-accented speech. Monolinguals with little experience with foreign-accented speech listened to sentences spoken by foreign-accented and native-accented speakers while their brain activity was recorded using EEG/ERPs. We gathered behavioral measures of sentence comprehension, language attitudes, and accent perception. Behavioral results showed that listeners were highly accurate in comprehending both native- and foreign-accented sentences. ERP results showed that grammatical and semantic violations elicited different neural responses in native versus foreign accented speech. Native-accented speech elicited a frontal negativity (Nref) for grammatical violations and a robust N400 for semantic violations. However, in foreign-accented speech only semantic (not grammatical) violations elicited an ERP effect, a late negativity. Closer inspection of listeners who did and who did not correctly identify the foreign accent revealed that listeners who identified the foreign accent showed ERP responses for both grammatical and semantic errors: an N400-like effect to grammatical errors and a late negativity to semantic errors. In contrast, listeners who did not correctly identify the foreign accent showed no ERP responses to grammatical errors in the foreign-accented condition, but did show a late negativity to semantic errors. These findings provide novel insights into understanding the effects of listener experience and foreign-accented speaker identity on the neural correlates of language processing.
Halos or Egos? External Rankings and Internal Collaboration in U.S. Hospitals 2002-2011

This paper examines the effect that external third-party rankings have on collaboration networks within organizations. Using detailed patient-level treatment data for over 10 million in-patient sta...
Evaluation of the association of CXCR4 expression with HER2 status or mTOR expression levels

e22192 Introduction: CXCR4 is a chemokine receptor that is linked to breast cancer metastasis. The putative mechanism involves activation of the HER-2/PI3K/PTEN/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (m...
Postdonation Anemia in Living Kidney Donors.

Abstract Background The effect of nephrectomy on development of anemia in living kidney donation has not been well studied. We hypothesized that the remaining kidney volume and function after donation are determinants of hemoglobin (Hb) concentration and postdonation anemia (PDA). Methods We studied 398 living kidney donors (LKDs) who donated from January 2001 to December 2013. Demographic variables, hematologic variables, renal mass, and renal function were investigated as factors associated with PDA with the use of univariate and multivariable logistical regression analysis. Renal mass was determined from kidney volume measured with the use of computerized tomographic scans. Results Prevalence of PDA in LKDs was 11.8% at a median follow-up time of 601 days. In univariate analyses, PDA was more prevalent in women than in men (72% vs 28%; P = .048). Age and race were not associated factors. Kidney volume was lower in donors with PDA than in those without PDA (326 ± 52 mL vs 368 ± 70 mL; P Conclusions PDA is prevalent after living kidney donation, with donor kidney volume and predonation hemoglobin levels being independent determinants for PDA.
Sustainability, Hamiltonian Value, and Nnp in a Cake-Eating Economy

This paper sheds further light on the relationships between the current-value Hamiltonian, net national product (NNP), and sustainability condition in the context of a cake-eating economy. It shows that the usual interpretation of the current-value Hamiltonian as the maximum sustainable consumption/utility level is not correct and that a general condition for sustainability in this sense is the stationarity of the current-value Hamiltonian. It also derives an explicit relationship between this condition and the condition for sustainability in the sense of "keeping the value of wealth intact." It then finds that while a cake-eating economy can never be sustainable in the former sense, it will be sustainable in the latter sense provided the preferences are presented by a logarithmic utility function. Further, the paper shows that, contrary to common belief, NNP is not, in general, equal to the current-value Hamiltonian, except for the highly special case of a linear utility function. It argues that, even when correctly adjusted to account for natural capital depreciation, NNP can still be a notoriously misleading indicator of true level of well-being because, depending on the degree of society's aversion to intergenerational inequality, it can underestimate or overestimate the current-value Hamiltonian along an optimal policy.
The Effect of Conservation Knowledge on Attitudes and Stated Behaviors toward Arthropods of Urban and Suburban Elementary School Students

Arthropods provide ecosystem services upon which humans depend, yet are declining across the globe. Arthropods are neglected from conservation efforts due to many factors that include a lack of und...
Gradual attenuation of a congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt with a self-retaining polyacrylic acid-silicone device in 6 dogs.

Objective To determine the ability of a polyacrylic acid-silicone radiolucent self-retaining gradual occlusion device (PAS-OD) to attenuate congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (EHPSS) in dogs. Study design Prospective clinical trial. Animals Six client-owned dogs with single, congenital EHPSS. Methods Serum bile acids (SBA), abdominal ultrasonography, and computed tomographic angiography (CTA) were performed preoperatively and at 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively. Each dog was treated for EHPSS by placement of a PAS-OD. Results PAS-OD were placed without complication an average of 4.3 seconds (range, 3-7) after isolation of the shunt. Median surgical time was 38.5 minutes (range, 28-84) including concurrent procedures. All dogs recovered from surgery without complications. SBA were normal in 5 of 6 dogs at 4 and 8 weeks after surgery. The shunt was completely attenuated in 2 of 6 dogs at 4 weeks and in 4 of 6 dogs at 8 weeks, without evidence of acquired shunt formation in any dog. The size and velocity of the portal vasculature were improved in 5 of 6 dogs according to 8-week postoperative CTA and ultrasonography results, respectively. The remaining dog had a persistently decreased portal vasculature size but a normal velocity according to 8-week postoperative CTA and ultrasound results, respectively. Conclusion The PAS-OD led to complete attenuation in 4 of 6 dogs and partial attenuation with mild residual flow of 2 EHPSS over an 8-week period in dogs. Clinical significance The PAS-OD is a new option for gradual occlusion of congenital EHPSS over 8 weeks.