cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Galactosamine-induced fulminant hepatic necrosis in unanesthetized canines

A large animal model of fulminant hepatic necrosis is necessary to test the efficacy of artificial liver support systems. A recent model was developed using D-galactosamine in anesthetized dogs. Because of the difficulties encountered with prolonged anesthesia, a similar protocol was used in 10 unanesthetized dogs. Intravenous infusions of D-galactosamine (1.0 to 1.5 gm/kg) did not result in uniform death of all animals at 72 hours or development of hypoglycemia. Severe hepatic necrosis was observed in all animals, but residual hepatocyte viability was evident in some. All animals developed severe consumption coagulopathy with histological evidence of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in four. A clinical picture characteristic of endotoxic shock was observed in most animals as a terminal event. The presence of endotoxin was confirmed in all dogs tested after 12 hours (7/10). The differences observed between this model and the anesthetized model are probably because of the toxic synergism between halothane and D-galactosamine. Neither model seems satisfactory for the testing of artificial liver support systems. The halothane model requires extremely long periods of anesthesia and mechanical ventilation. The present model does not cause uniform or universal death of the animals within 3 days. Foremost, both models result in DIC and endotoxic shock, neither of which is likely to respond to bioartificial liver support or treatment with conventional dialysis membranes.
Lessons from using scenarios for strategic foresight

Abstract Strategic foresight requires a longer and broader view of the environment and, as we at the Institute for Alternative Futures (IAF) would argue, a conscious attention to the organization's vision and visionary scenarios in the environment. Having promoted foresight on six continents for a wide range of governments, corporations, and non-profit organizations, we have developed lessons on the design and set-up of foresight efforts, their use and follow-through. Lessons include: Scenarios using ‘aspirational futures’ should include expectable, challenging, and visionary alternatives; beware of and understand ‘allergic reactions’ to foresight given some individuals', particularly leaders', psychological preferences; foresight is most effectively done by and for top leadership but foresight for units or regions of the organization can also be successful; to get the most value, it is important to err on the side of boldness and vision in developing scenarios; foresight efforts create a ‘safe space’ for exploring challenging situations; associations as collections of companies or professionals have unique foresight needs including elected leadership that rotates every year, and the need to communicate the results of foresight efforts to their members effectively; government and corporations have more similarities than differences in foresight, but companies have more resources and can move quickly to develop and use the foresight.
Business Interest Group Power and Temporary Assistance to Needy Families

Objectives. Our aim is to test the influence of business interest groups on Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) policy at the state level. Methods. We use the state TANF guarantee, the length of time recipients have before they lose their benefits, and the existence of a ‘‘family cap’’ as dependent variables in three models. Each of the models tests business interest group power and several other measures that represent possible influences on the dependent variable. Results. We find that business interest group power is significantly related to both the generosity of the TANF guarantee and to TANF time limits. However, it is not related to the presence of the family cap in state TANF policy. Conclusions. The evidence we found is consistent with the idea that those state TANF policies that are most intimately related to business interests are just those policies that are most affected by business group influence. States’ TANF policies regarding maximum benefit and time limits both have a direct impact on wealth redistribution and labor-market behavior. On the other hand, business interest groups do not seem to have much influence on the presence of TANF family caps, policies that are arguably less the concern of business interest groups, and more connected to public attitudes toward families and children. The landmark 1996 welfare reform, known as the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA), symbolized a watershed in the history of both welfare policy and American federalism. It abolished entitlement to cash aid for poor families through the Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program. In its place, PRWORA created Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF). TANF transformed the welfare system from one focused on eligibility and cash assistance to one focused on employment. In this study, we present a political analysis of the ways states responded to this new policy environment. 1 Specifically, the role of business interest groups in shaping the new TANF policies is assessed. This study builds on a n Direct correspondence to Carl Klarner hcklarner@isugw.indstate.edui. He will be pleased to provide data and coding and other information to those who may wish to replicate this study. 1 We thank Andrea McAtee for sharing data on registered lobbyists in the states.
Long-term follow-up for reconstruction of strictures of the fossa navicularis with a single technique

In a paper from the USA the authors describe their experience with the ventral transverse skin island flap elevated on a dartos fascia flap for reconstructing strictures of the fossa navicularis. They found it to be effective, with good functional and aesthetic results. OBJECTIVE To retrospectively review our experience with the ventral transverse skin island elevated on a dartos fascia flap. PATIENTS AND METHODS In all, 45 patients were consecutively operated by the senior author using this technique from March 1987 to January 2006. The files of 35 patients were assessed for the study. Success was defined as a patent urethral calibre of ≥16 F that did not require further procedures. Follow-up consisted of, endoscopy with calibration, office visits, and telephone calls. This procedure was described in 1987 by Jordan. The overall outcome as well as indications after the follow-up period are presented. RESULTS The overall success rate was 83% with a mean long-term follow-up of 10.2 years. All of the patients with a non-lichen sclerosus (LS)/balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO) diagnosis had excellent results (23/23) with a mean follow-up of 10.2 years. LS/BXO recurred at the fossa or meatus in six of 12 patients. Seventeen patients (48%) were lost to follow-up, and three patients (9%) died from other causes. CONCLUSIONS The ventral transverse penile skin island flap has proven to be effective, reliable, reproducible, and with good functional and aesthetic results in all fossa navicularis strictures with the exception of those strictures resulting from LS/BXO.
Olfactory cues and pig agonistic behavior: evidence for a submissive pheromone.

One hundred and two prepubertal pigs were used in two experiments to determine if adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH)-induced increase in submissive behavior could be mediated by odorous signals. In experiment one, urine was collected from pigs treated with either 0, 1 or 10 IU/kg ACTH. Urine from pigs given 1.0 IU/kg ACTH caused a trend for a rise in submissive behavior. Level of plasma cortisol from donor pigs correlated well (r = .92) with duration of submissive behavior in the tested pigs. In experiment two, urine from ACTH-treated pigs increased submissive behavior when sprayed in the air during late fight. Thus, ACTH-induced submissiveness may be mediated by a pheromone. These results fit the hypothesis that, in addition to visual cues, an olfactory cue (perhaps adrenal in origin) is released towards the end of a fight to signal submission. Aerosolizing urine from ACTH-treated pigs may have interfered with this pheromonal signal.
Computer solutions to nuclear icebreaker propulsion problems

TWISTS AND TURNS of the ?cold war? have directed attention to our polar regions as never before. Scientific curiosity has accompanied this attention, requiring our society to make accessible these frozen regions. Experience of the past decade in establishing large northern outposts ? Thule, Greenland, for instance ? has been conclusive: The most economical mode of transporting impedimenta to these wastes, for both military and technical personnel, is by sea routes. Sustained air-freight support is prohibitive for any long-range effort at the present stage of fossil fuel use in aircraft.
A gamma-globulin genetic factor related to Gm(a) but localized to a different portion of the same heavy chains.

PREVIOUS investigations have indicated that Gm(a)* and Gm(f)* are genetic characters localized in various areas of the major heavy chain class1–3 of human γG globulins. These determinants, detected as antigens, segregate in most populations, as if controlled by allelic genes, and occur independently in myeloma proteins from Caucasians. A previous report indicated that specific reagents for the human genetic factors can be produced by immunizing rabbits with myeloma proteins4. In order to analyse in a more satisfactory way the genetic control of different portions of the heavy chains, it seemed desirable deliberately to immunize with critical protein fragments in order to disclose additional genetic sites believed to be present but not detected by available antisera.
Effect of intracapillary resistance to oxygen transport on the diffusional shunting between capillaries.

Abstract The effect of intracapillary resistance to oxygen transport on distribution of oxygen tension in the tissue and along the capillary was investigated by means of a mathematical model. In some cases resistance significantly affects the diffusive interaction between neighbouring capillaries thus aggravating the dificiency of oxygen supply around capillaries with low oxygen tension.
Laboratory Experimentation in Economics: A Methodological Overview

This paper surveys laboratory experimentation as a tool of economic research. It concentrates on methodological themes, broadly construe d, with the aim of illustrating the process by which sequences of relate d experiments can build upon one another and can complement more traditional types of economic research, both empirical and theoretical. The particular areas from which series of experiments are discussed in detail include bargaining behavior, public goods, auction markets, and individual choice behavior. Copyright 1988 by Royal Economic Society.
Growth and chlorophyll, mineral, and total amino acid composition of tomato and wheat plants in relation to nitrogen and iron nutrition II. Chlorophyll content and total amino acid composition

Abstract Studies of the amino acids distribution in plants subjected to nutrient regimes are limited. The present study investigated the effect of NO3‐N and FeSO4‐Fe regimes on chlorophyll and total amino acids composition of tomato and wheat plants. Also the distribution of 17 amino acids between the different plant parts was studied. Increasing the NO3‐N level up to 200 mg kg‐1 greatly increased the total amino acids content of tomato plants. The total amino acids content of wheat plants continued to increase with addition of NO3‐N up to 400 mg kg‐1. The response of chlorophyll content to NO3‐N supply was highly dependent on Fe level both in tomato and wheat plants. The interaction between NO3‐N and FeSO4‐Fe had a great effect on the total amino acids content and distribution. Iron increased the translocation of proline from roots to leaves. The overall amino acids contents of leaves was higher than that of stems or roots.
Determination of Cyclohexylamine in Water by Solid Phase Extraction and Quantitative High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography

Abstract Cyclohexylamine (CHA) was isolated from water by solid phase extraction on a C18 microcolumn. The CHA in the column eluate was chromatographed on a high performance preadsorbent silica gel layer, detected with ninhydrin reagent and exposure to UV light, and quantified by reflectance scanning. Recovery from fortified distilled water samples at 10 ppm averaged 95.0% and at 1 ppm averaged 94.9%. Quantitative recoveries from tap water at 10 ppm and from lake water at 1 ppm were also demonstrated. Other boiler water additives permitted by FDA do not interfere.
A general theory for diffusion in purely viscous binary fluid mixtures

A general theory is developed for isothermal diffusion in purely viscous binary fluid mixtures. A rigorous basis is formulated for a general, linear theory, the nature of wave propagation during a diffusion process is examined, and a simple, consistent second-order theory of diffusion is developed.
Generalizability of cancer clinical trial results

BACKGROUND The generalizability of clinical trial results is questionable, because fewer than 5% of cancer patients participate. The authors examined the comparability of clinical trial participants and nonparticipants and the potential impact of differences. METHODS A retrospective cohort of 19,340 cancer patients who were diagnosed between January 1990 and December 1997 was characterized by trial participation. The distributions of prognostically important factors among trial participants were compared with the distributions among nonparticipants and the population of patients diagnosed during the same period in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results population. The impact of these factors on survival was examined by using a Cox proportional hazards analysis. RESULTS Trial participants were younger and had better performance status and fewer comorbid conditions compared with nonparticipants. However, participants were more likely to have locally advanced disease, positive lymph node status, poorly differentiated tumors, liver metastases, and multiple metastatic sites. The former factors were associated with significantly longer survival, whereas the later factors were associated with significantly shorter survival. CONCLUSIONS The lack of comparability between trial participants and nonparticipants called into question the generalizability of clinical trial results. Although selective recruitment for clinical trials is justified, the authors encourage the use of population-based trials of effectiveness in “all comers.” Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Risky sexual behaviors among Hispanic young adults in South Florida: nativity, age at immigration and gender differences.

CONTEXT: U.S. Hispanics are disadvantaged compared with whites in regard to sexual health, particularly early sexual initiation and contraceptive use. It is unclear whether differences in nativity and immigration are associated with risky sexual behaviors. METHODS: Data collected between 1998 and 2000 from a community sample in South Florida were analyzed to examine sexual behaviors among 709 Hispanic individuals aged 18–23. Associations between nativity and age at immigration and sexual behaviors were assessed separately by gender using chi-square tests and analyses of covariance. RESULTS: Smaller proportions of sexually experienced women who had immigrated to the United States before age six than of similar U.S.-born women reported having had vaginal sex (83% vs. 91%) and oral sex (71% vs. 86%) in the past year. Compared with U.S.-born women, those who had immigrated at age six or older reported lower levels of oral sex (66% vs. 86% of those with sexual experience) and drug use in conjunction with sex in the past year (mean score, 1.2 vs. 1.6 on a scale of 1–5), and a lower average lifetime number of sexual partners (2.0 vs. 3.7 in the sample overall). Immigrant men were no less likely than U.S.-born men to engage in risky sexual behavior. CONCLUSIONS: Given the diversity of nativity and immigration histories among Hispanics in the United States, it is important that research examine both factors. An understanding of their joint association with sexual activity, plus the conditioning effects of gender, could help professionals to develop effective education and prevention programs for young people who are at risk for engaging in potentially dangerous sexual behavior.
Lead levels in dentine and circumpulpal dentine of deciduous teeth of normal and lead poisoned children.

Abstract A method for the preparation of circumpulpal dentine for lead analysis is described. The technique consists of cutting 600-μ-thin sections of deciduous teeth, and, utilizing a vice, fracturing off the circumpulpal dentine from the coronal dentine. Both dentine and circumpulpal dentine of teeth of normal American children and previously identified lead-poisoned children were prepared in this fashion and analyzed for lead. Comparing the lead-poisoned teeth with normal teeth, the results indicate that a 6-fold difference in the mean lead content existed between the two groups. The uptake of lead by the two dentine zones at low levels of lead intake was also examined. Thus, comparing tooth lead levels of normal American and Icelandic children, 2–3 times less lead was found in the teeth of Icelandic children. The sensitivity of the dentinal zones for lead, the simplicity of the preparative method and the ease of collection of the teeth supports the use of teeth as useful indicators of previous lead exposure.
Generalized polynomial chaos expansion approaches to approximate stochastic receding horizon control with applications to probabilistic collision checking and avoidance

This paper studies the model predictive control of dynamic systems subject to stochastic parametric uncertainty due to plant/model mismatches and exogenous disturbance that corresponds to uncertain circumstance in operation of the system. Model and disturbance uncertainties are ubiquitous in any mathematical models of system and control theory. Parametric uncertainty propagation or quantification is approximated using a spectral method called polynomial chaos expansion and exogenous disturbance is assumed to be an additive Gaussian random process. With Gaussian approximation of resulting solution trajectory of a stochastic differential equation using polynomial chaos expansion, we solve convex finite-horizon model predictive control problems that are amenable to online computation of a stochastically robust control policy over the time-horizon. The proposed approach to chance-constrained model predictive control provides an explicit way to handle a stochastic system model in the presence of both model uncertainty and exogenous disturbances. Probabilistic constraints are replaced by convex deterministic constraints that approximate the probabilistic violations with a user-defined confidence level.
P900: A Putative Novel ERP Component that Indexes Countermeasure Use in the P300-Based Concealed Information Test

Countermeasures pose a serious threat to the effectiveness of the Concealed Information Test (CIT). In a CIT experiment, Rosenfeld and Labkovsky in Psychophysiology 47(6):1002-1010, (2010) observed a previously unknown positive ERP component at about 900 ms post-stimulus at Fz and Cz that could potentially serve as an index of countermeasure use. Here, we explored the hypothesis that this component, termed P900, occurs in response to a signal that no further specific response is required in a trial, and could thus appear in countermeasure users that respond differentially depending on the stimulus that appears. In the present experiments, subjects viewed four non-meaningful (irrelevant) dates and one oddball date. In three experiments, we examined P900's antecedent conditions. In the first, the unique item was a personally relevant oddball (the subject's birthdate). In a second, the unique item was a non-personally relevant oddball (an irrelevant date in a unique font color). In a third, all dates were irrelevant. We speculated that the presence of an oddball would not be necessary for P900. All participants made countermeasure-like responses following two specific irrelevant dates. As hypothesized, P900s were seen to non-responded-to irrelevant and oddball stimuli in all subjects but not to responded-to irrelevant stimuli, and the presence of an oddball was not necessary for elicitation of P900. This finding has potential application in deception settings-the presence of a P300 accompanied by the presence of a P900 in response to non-countered stimuli could provide evidence of incriminating knowledge accompanied by the attempt to use countermeasures to evade detection.
Cross-Cultural Counseling Concerns.

The problems and concerns of cross-cultural counseling and psychotherapy are evaluated. Specific questions are raised along with suggestions for cross-cultural counseling researchers and practitioners.
pH modulation of glial glutamate transporters regulates synaptic transmission in the nucleus of the solitary tract

The nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) is the major site for termination of visceral sensory afferents contributing to homeostatic regulation of, for example, arterial pressure, gastric motility, ...
Simple Atom, Extreme Nucleus-Laser Trapping and Probing of 6He and 8He

Helium-8 (8He) is the most neutron-rich helium isotope that can be synthesized on Earth: it consists of two protons and six neutrons, and remains stable for an average of 0.2 seconds. Unlike the abundant helium isotope, 4He, which has the two neutrons packed closely with two protons, the additional neutrons in 8He form a “halo” around a compact, 4He-like core. A similar neutron-halo structure also exists for 6He (half-life = 0.8 s). Because of their intriguing properties, 6He and 8He have the potential to reveal new aspects of the fundamental forces among the constituent nucleons. We have recently succeeded in laser trapping and cooling these exotic helium isotopes, and have performed precision laser spectroscopy on individual trapped atoms. Based on atomic frequency differences measured along the isotope chain 4He-6He-8He, the nuclear charge radius of 8He has been determined for the first time to be 1.96 fm and that of 6He to be 2.07 fm. The result shows that the charge radius of 8He is smaller than that...
Design of Multifunctional Nanomedical Systems

Multifunctional nanoparticles hold great promise for drug/gene delivery and simultaneous diagnostics and therapeutics (“theragnostics”) including use of core materials that provide in vivo imaging and opportunities for externally modulated therapeutic interventions. Multilayered nanoparticles can act as nanomedical systems with on-board molecular programming done through the chemistry of highly specialized layers to accomplish complex and potentially decision-making tasks. The targeting process itself is a multi-step process consisting of initial cell recognition through cell surface receptors, cell entry through the membrane in a manner to prevent undesired alterations of the nanomedical system, re-targeting to the appropriate sub-region of the cell where the therapeutic package can be localized, and potentially control of that therapeutic process through feedback systems using molecular biosensors. This paper describes a bionanoengineering design process in which sophisticated nanomedical platform systems can be designed for diagnosis and treatment of disease. The feasibility of most of these subsystems has been demonstrated, but the full integration of these interacting sub-components remains a challenge for the field. Specific examples of sub-components developed for specific applications are described.
Tidal gravitational forces: The infall of “new” comets and comet showers

Abstract The tidal gravitational field of the Galaxy directed into the galactic plane changes the angular momentum of comets in the Oort cloud. For comet orbits with semimajor axis greater than 2 × 104 AU, the change of angular momentum in one orbit is sufficient to bring comets from the Oort cloud into the visible region, causing the infall of “new” comets. The limiting size orbit is weakly dependent on the angle between the major axis of the comet orbit and the galactic plane. The flux of comets into the inner Solar System caused by the galactic tidal field will be continuous and nearly isotropic. This effect appears to exclude any determination of the trajectories of passing stars by analysis of the angular distribution of new comets. The production of intense comet showers by the tidal field of a solar companion or of an interstellar cloud is considered. We show that the direction of a solar companion cannot be found from the present distribution of observable comets. The frequency of comet showers induced by encounters with interstellar clouds is found to be much lower than that from passing stars, and the tidal fields of interstellar clouds are not strong enough to cause comet showers of sufficient intensity to result in Earth impacts.
Typicality effects in attitude-behavior consistency : effects of category discrimination and category knowledge

Abstract The “typicality effect” in attitude-behavior consistency is that general category attitudes are usually more likely to guide behavior toward typical than toward atypical social category members. The present studies tested the hypothesis that individuals who are relatively expert at dealing with the category display less of this typicality effect than do relative nonexperts. Study 1 demonstrated that individuals who distinguished clearly between category members and nonmembers were more likely than their less discriminating peers to treat all members of a social category alike regardless of their typicality, using a novel experimentally induced category. Study 2 showed, in similar fashion, that individuals who knew more members of a naturally occurring social category were more likely than their less knowledgeable peers to treat all category members the same, once again regardless of their typicality. Discussion centers on the mechanisms through which discriminativeness and knowledgeability may moderate attitude-behavior consistency.
Polar Solvation Dynamics in Nonionic Reverse Micelles and Model Polymer Solutions

The effect of confinement on solvation dynamics has been explored in Brij-30/cyclohexane and Triton X-100/cyclohexane nonionic reverse micelles. Inside the reverse micelles, the polar solvation dynamics become slower and show additional slow relaxation modes not observed for bulk water. The solvation dynamics inside the Triton X-100 reverse micelles is slower than the dynamics inside Brij-30 reverse micelles. The results for solvation dynamics in the reverse micelles contrast solvation dynamics in aqueous tri(ethylene glycol) monoethyl ether solutions comparable to the reverse micellar interiors, which show significantly faster response. Measurements in the nonionic reverse micelles are also compared to previous work on ionic reverse micelles. Results reported here show that the interactions of water with the polyoxyethylene ether, as well as the micellar confinement inside these reverse micelles, effectively immobilize the water in the micellar interiors.
Vascular access-related infections in HIV patients undergoing hemodialysis: case description and literature review

Poor immune status, the use of a vascular access different from an AV fistula, and intravenous drug use (IDU) may favor increased rates of vascular access infections among HIV infected patients on hemodialysis. Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are the main cause of these infections, but Gram-negative rods and fungi have been found as well. Using an AV fistula when possible, and eliciting a history of IVDU on every visit may prevent this type of infection. When infections are present, coverage for both Gram-positive and negative organisms is recommended. Additional studies specifically addressing the issue of vascular access infection in HIV infected patients are required.
Variants of Osteoprotegerin Lacking TRAIL Binding for Therapeutic Bone Remodeling in Osteolytic Malignancies

Osteolytic bone damage is a major cause of morbidity in several metastatic pathologies. Current therapies using bisphosphonates provide modest improvement, but cytotoxic side effects still occur prompting the need to develop more effective therapies to target aggressive osteoclastogenesis. Increased levels of receptor activator of NF–κB ligand (TNFSF11/RANKL), leading to RANKL-RANK signaling, remain the key axis for osteoclast activation and bone resorption. Osteoprotegerin (TNFRSF11B/OPG), a decoy receptor for RANKL, is significantly decreased in patients who present with bone lesions. Despite its potential in inhibiting osteoclast activation, OPG also binds to TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TNFSF10/TRAIL), making tumor cells resistant to apoptosis. Toward uncoupling the events of TRAIL binding of OPG and to improve its utility for bone remodeling without inducing tumor resistance to apoptosis, OPG mutants were developed by structural homology modeling based on interactive domain identification and by superimposing models of OPG, TRAIL, and its receptor DR5 (TNFRSF10B) to identify regions of OPG for rational design. The OPG mutants were purified and extensively characterized for their ability to decrease osteoclast damage without affecting tumor apoptosis pathway both in vitro and in vivo , confirming their potential in bone remodeling following cancer-induced osteolytic damage. Implications: OPG variants were developed that lack TRAIL binding, yet retain RANKL binding and suggest new possibilities for therapeutic targeting in osteolytic malignancies. Mol Cancer Res; 13(5); 819–27. ©2015 AACR .
A Model for Cell Wall Dissolution in Mating Yeast Cells: Polarized Secretion and Restricted Diffusion of Cell Wall Remodeling Enzymes Induces Local Dissolution

Mating of the budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, occurs when two haploid cells of opposite mating types signal using reciprocal pheromones and receptors, grow towards each other, and fuse to form a single diploid cell. To fuse, both cells dissolve their cell walls at the point of contact. This event must be carefully controlled because the osmotic pressure differential between the cytoplasm and extracellular environment causes cells with unprotected plasma membranes to lyse. If the cell wall-degrading enzymes diffuse through the cell wall, their concentration would rise when two cells touched each other, such as when two pheromone-stimulated cells adhere to each other via mating agglutinins. At the surfaces that touch, the enzymes must diffuse laterally through the wall before they can escape into the medium, increasing the time the enzymes spend in the cell wall, and thus raising their concentration at the point of attachment and restricting cell wall dissolution to points where cells touch each other. We tested this hypothesis by studying pheromone treated cells confined between two solid, impermeable surfaces. This confinement increases the frequency of pheromone-induced cell death, and this effect is diminished by reducing the osmotic pressure difference across the cell wall or by deleting putative cell wall glucanases and other genes necessary for efficient cell wall fusion. Our results support the model that pheromone-induced cell death is the result of a contact-driven increase in the local concentration of cell wall remodeling enzymes and suggest that this process plays an important role in regulating cell wall dissolution and fusion in mating cells.
The Rop GTPase: an emerging signaling switch in plants

G proteins are ubiquitous molecular switches in eukaryotic signal transduction, but their roles in plant signal transduction had not been clearly established until recent studies of the plant-specific Rop subfamily of RHO GTPases. Rop participates in signaling to an array of physiological processes including cell polarity establishment, cell growth, morphogenesis, actin dynamics, H2O2 generation, hormone responses, and probably many other cellular processes in plants. Evidence suggests that plants have developed unique molecular mechanisms to control this universal molecular switch through novel GTPase-activating proteins and potentially through a predominant class of plant receptor-like serine/threonine kinases. Furthermore, the mechanism by which Rop regulates specific processes may also be distinct from that for other GTPases. These advances have raised the exciting possibility that the elucidation of Rop GTPase signaling may lead to the establishment of a new paradigm for G protein-dependent signal transduction in plants.
Optimization of blank dimensions to reduce springback in the flexforming process

Abstract In sheet metal forming operations, springback of the part during unloading largely determines whether the part conforms to the design dimensions and tolerances. Finite element simulations were performed in order to study the interrelationship of the blank dimensions and interface conditions on the springback for an axisymmetric conical part manufactured by flexforming. Sensitivity analysis done using the finite element method (FEM) demonstrated that the magnitude of springback and the overall dimensional quality are highly influenced by the initial dimensions of the blank. A conventional optimization method combined with FEM was used to obtain optimum blank dimensions that can reduce springback.
Preparing a Manuscript for Publication

The phrase “publish or perish” might not be spoken among faculty colleagues, but it reverberates in the minds of young untenured professionals (Sadler, 2011). The need to publish in a professional journal also exists for other faculty members seeking to share their research. The purpose of this essay is to provide assistance in getting manuscripts accepted for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Errors of Misclassification in Neo-Piagetian Research:

Errors of misclassification associated with two concept acquisition criteria and their effects on the actual significance level and power of a statistical test for sequential development of these concepts are the focus of this paper. This study provides a link between various mis classification models and subsequent statistical analyses. In addi tion, explicit illustrations of actual significance levels and power val ues are provided for different misclassincation models. A partial corrective for errors of misclassification is suggested and investi gated via Monte Carlo sampling.
A compact Hall-effect sensor array for the detection and imaging of single magnetic beads in biomedical assays

A 64-unit Hall-effect sensor array capable of detecting magnetic beads is implemented in 0.18 µm CMOS process. Two Hall sensor implementations, one using n-wells and another using MOS transistors, are analyzed. The n-well implementation can detect a single 4.5 µm bead in .5 ms with a probability of error below 1% while the MOS implementation takes 2.5 ms to detect the same bead. Each array is compact so that individual beads can be detected and counted even if they do not land directly over a sensor. As a result, the array is capable of imaging magnetic beads, much like a digital camera, and thereby provides information about their individual locations and distribution.
Small-scale structure of spacetime as the origin of the gravitational constant

We suggest a means of incorporating the Planck length as a fundamental constant determined by the structure of spacetime. In this scheme the spacetime symmetry group is taken as the de Sitter group with radius of curvature proportional to the Planck length, but we argue that the effects of this curvature are not apparent at elementary-particle length scales. To make the connection with gravity we present a formulation of the gravitational interaction as the gauge theory of the de Sitter group. We obtain an action containing the Einstein-Cartan action, but in which the dimensional gravitational constant $G$ appears naturally as the consequence of the commutation relation of the de Sitter group. We also find a cosmological term, higherderivative couplings of the gravitational field, and a propagating torsion field, which we discuss.
Abstract 519: Consumption of Energy Beverage is Associated With an Attenuation of Arterial Endothelial Flow--Mediated Dilatation

Introduction: Energy drinks are being consumed more and more worldwide, and have been associated with some deaths in adolescents and young adults, especially when consumed while exercising. The consumption of energy drinks before or during exercise might be linked to an increased risk for myocardial ischemia as a symptom of endothelial dysfunction. Energy beverage consumption and its acute effect on endothelial function is not well-studied. HYPOTHESIS Consumption of an energy drink will acutely impair endothelial function in a young healthy adult. Methods: After fasting from caffeine for at least 24 h and food for at least 8 h prior, eleven healthy non-smoker medical students (9 males), average age 24.5 years (range 23-27 years), average BMI 22.8, received an ECG, blood pressure & pulse check, and underwent baseline testing (BL) of endothelial function using the technique of endothelium-dependent flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) with high-resolution ultrasound (according to recommended guidelines of the University of Wisconsin Atherosclerosis Imaging Research Program Core Laboratory). The subjects then drank an energy beverage (EB), a 24-oz can of Monster Energy Drink®, and the above was repeated at 90 min after consumption. The FMD was calculated as the ratio between the post-cuff release diameter and the baseline diameter. Each FMD image was checked for quality control, and each artery diameter was measured as the distance between opposing tunica medias by two experts. Three measurements were taken at the QRS complex, repeated on three separate beats, and then all were averaged. Results: The hemodynamics were as follows, BL vs EB group respectively (mean+/-SD): Heart rate 65.2+/-11.3 vs 68.2+/-11.8 beats per minute, Systolic Blood pressure 114.0+/-10.4 vs. 114.1+/-10.4 mmHg, Diastolic blood pressure 68.8+/-9.3 vs. 70.6+/-7.1 mmHg; all were not significantly different. However, consumption of the EB resulted in a significantly attenuated peak FMD response (mean+/-SD): BL group 5.9+/-4.6% vs. EB group 1.9+/-2.1%; P=0.03). Conclusions: Acute exposure to an energy beverage impairs arterial endothelial function in healthy young adults. Given the increased use of these beverages associated with exercise in young adults, more research is needed.
A large free-standing wire grid for microwave variable-delay polarization modulation

One technique for mapping the polarization signature of the cosmic microwave background uses large, polarizing grids in reflection. We present the system requirements, the fabrication, assembly, and alignment procedures, and the test results for the polarizing grid component of a 50 cm clear aperture, Variable-delay Polarization Modulator (VPM). This grid is being built and tested at the Goddard Space Flight Center as part of the Polarimeter for Observing Inflationary Cosmology at the Reionization Epoch (POINCARE). VPMs modulate the polarized component of a radiation source by splitting the incoming beam into two orthogonal polarization components using a free-standing wire grid. The path length difference between these components is varied with a translating mirror, and then they are recombined. This precision instrumentation technique can be used to encode and demodulate the cosmic microwave background's polarization signature. For the demonstration instrument, 64 micrometer diameter tungsten wires are being assembled into a 200 pm pitch, free-standing wire grid with a 50 cm clear aperture, and an expected overall flatness better than 30 micrometers. A rectangular, aluminum stretching frame holds the wires with sufficient tension to achieve a minimum resonant frequency of 185 Hz, allowing VPM mirror translation frequencies of several Hz. A lightly loaded, flattening ring with a 50 cm inside diameter rests against the wires and brings them into accurate planarity.
Norepinephrine Dosing in Obese and Nonobese Patients With Septic Shock

BACKGROUND Whether or not norepinephrine infusions for support of hemodynamic status in patients with septic shock should be weight based is unknown. This situation is particularly pertinent in patients who are extremely overweight or obese. OBJECTIVE To compare dosing requirements and effect of norepinephrine on blood pressure in obese and nonobese patients with septic shock. METHODS In a retrospective cohort study, data on adult patients with septic shock who received norepinephrine infusion for support of hemodynamic status in a tertiary care, academic medical center were analyzed. Patients were categorized as obese (body mass index ≥ 30) or nonobese (body mass index < 30). The primary outcome was dosing requirements of norepinephrine at 60 minutes after the start of the infusion. The secondary outcome was the log-transformed ratio of mean arterial pressure to norepinephrine. RESULTS The final cohort consisted of 100 obese and 100 nonobese patients. Mean norepinephrine infusion rate at 60 minutes was 0.09 (SD, 0.08) μg/kg per minute in the obese group and 0.13 (SD, 0.14) μg/kg per minute in the nonobese group (P = .006). The non-weight-based dose at 60 minutes was 9 μg/min in obese patients and 8 μg/min in nonobese patients (P = .72). The log transformed mean arterial pressure to norepinephrine ratio at 60 minutes was 2.5 (SD, 0.9) in obese patients and 2.5 (SD, 0.8) in nonobese patients (P = .54) CONCLUSIONS: Compared with nonobese patients, obese patients with septic shock require lower weight-based doses of norepinephrine and similar total norepinephrine doses.
The onset of chaos and routes to chaos in high-dimensional Lorenz systems

The original 3D Lorenz model is one of the most celebrated nonlinear dynamical system. A number of attempts have been made to generalize this model to higher dimensions and investigate high-dimensional chaos. In this paper, the 3D Lorenz system is extended to higher dimensions by selecting higher-order horizontal and vertical modes in doubled Fourier expansions of a stream function and temperature variations. The selection of the modes is guided by the requirements that they must conserve energy in the dissipationless limit and lead to systems that have only bounded solutions. The obtained results showed that the lowest-order Lorentz model that satisfies these criteria is a 8D system, and that the onset of chaos and routes to chaos in this high-dimensional system are different than that observed in the original Lorenz model. Physical explanation of these results is given.
Resilience in Development: Progress and Transformation

This chapter reviews origins and progress in resilience science, with an emphasis on progress over the past decade in theory, findings, and translational applications for strategic intervention. In alignment with prevailing concepts in developmental systems theory, human resilience is defined as the potential or manifested capacity of an individual to adapt successfully through multiple processes to experiences that threaten his or her function, survival, or development. Resilience pathways, developmental cascades, gene-environment interactions, and other models salient in current resilience theory are delineated, including new approaches to testing resilience-related processes in such models. Findings on promotive and protective effects are discussed, focusing on widely replicated adaptive processes that develop in children, their families, other relationships, and key contexts as children develop. Resilience processes involving families, schools, peers, culture, and other socioecological systems are highlighted. Genetic and neurobiological processes are reviewed as a growingedge of resilience science. Intervention research based on resilience theory is discussed, together with translational implications for practice and policy based on the expanding body of knowledge about resilience processes. The chapter concludes with a review of enduring controversies, a summary of progress, and directions for the future. Keywords: resilience; intervention; risk; adaptation; adversity; competence; protective; stress; promotive; stress inoculation
Las dinámicas de seguridad internas y externas de la política de Catar frente al levantamiento sirio

Qatar played a leading role in supporting the opposition to Bashar al-Assad since the beginning of the Syrian uprising in 2011. While Kuwait emerged as a key (unofficial) conduit for financial transfers from the Gulf States to Syria and backing from Saudi Arabia initially took the form of illicit flows of militants and weapons to groups of opposition fighters, Qatar from the start adopted a political approach to organizing the Syrian opposition, in addition to providing tens of millions of dollars to rebel groups. Qatari support increasingly controversial as it was perceived to be tied to groups linked to the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood. During 2012, Qatar and Saudi Arabia backed competing groups, contributing to the fragmentation of the opposition, before responsibility for the “Syria file” passed decisively from Doha to Riyadh in spring 2013. This signified a major setback to Qatar’s ambition to become a regional power and highlighted how Qatar’s Syria policy was undermined by the lack of institutional capacity to underpin highlypersonalised decision-making processes.
Fractal Properties of the Rotating Wave Van der Pol Oscillator with Phase

The Mandelbrot set1,2 has been studied extensively3 in terms of its fractal properties, Julia sets and Fatou islands. The set is constituted by a discrete quadratic mapping of the complex plane into itself and exhibits an astounding and anti-intuitive display of self-replication embedded in complex structure and designs. Here, we present some results and interpretation for the general cubic counterpart to what has become commonly known as the Mandelbrot set.
A Progenitor Cell Expressing Transcription Factor RORγt Generates All Human Innate Lymphoid Cell Subsets

The current model of murine innate lymphoid cell (ILC) development holds that mouse ILCs are derived downstream of the common lymphoid progenitor through lineage-restricted progenitors. However, corresponding lineage-restricted progenitors in humans have yet to be discovered. Here we identified a progenitor population in human secondary lymphoid tissues (SLTs) that expressed the transcription factor RORγt and was unique in its ability to generate all known ILC subsets, including natural killer (NK) cells, but not other leukocyte populations. In contrast to murine fate-mapping data, which indicate that only ILC3s express Rorγt, these human progenitor cells as well as human peripheral blood NK cells and all mature ILC populations expressed RORγt. Thus, all human ILCs can be generated through an RORγt(+) developmental pathway from a common progenitor in SLTs. These findings help establish the developmental signals and pathways involved in human ILC development.
Several discussions on nitrite content in direct drinking water

Objective:To provide reference for standard content and determination basis of nitrite in direct drinking water based on discussion on nitrite determination,so as to ensure the drinking water safety.Methods:Nitrite content in direct drinking water were determined based on GB/T8538-1995 "Methods for examination of drinking natural mineral water" and GB/T5750-2006 "Standard examination methods for drinking water" with several test conditions were optimized.Results:Nitrite was linear in the range of 0.00～9.90×10-2 mg/L,correlation coefficient was r=0.9998,minimum detectable concentration was 6.60×10-4 mg/L.The relative standard deviation was 0.96%～16.0%.The recovery was between 93.6%～122%.Conclusion:The method is suitable for the determination of nitrite in drinking water,and can provide reference for the content range and determination basis of nitrite in drinking water.