cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Predicting gene ontology from a global meta-analysis of 1-color microarray experiments

Global meta-analysis (GMA) of microarray data to identify genes with highly similar co-expression profiles is emerging as an accurate method to predict gene function and phenotype, even in the absence of published data on the gene(s) being analyzed. With a third of human genes still uncharacterized, this approach is a promising way to direct experiments and rapidly understand the biological roles of genes. To predict function for genes of interest, GMA relies on a guilt-by-association approach to identify sets of genes with known functions that are consistently co-expressed with it across different experimental conditions, suggesting coordinated regulation for a specific biological purpose. Our goal here is to define how sample, dataset size and ranking parameters affect prediction performance. 13,000 human 1-color microarrays were downloaded from GEO for GMA analysis. Prediction performance was benchmarked by calculating the distance within the Gene Ontology (GO) tree between predicted function and annotated function for sets of 100 randomly selected genes. We find the number of new predicted functions rises as more datasets are added, but begins to saturate at a sample size of approximately 2,000 experiments. For the gene set used to predict function, we find precision to be higher with smaller set sizes, yet with correspondingly poor recall and, as set size is increased, recall and F-measure also tend to increase but at the cost of precision. Of the 20,813 genes expressed in 50 or more experiments, at least one predicted GO category was found for 72.5% of them. Of the 5,720 genes without GO annotation, 4,189 had at least one predicted ontology using top 40 co-expressed genes for prediction analysis. For the remaining 1,531 genes without GO predictions or annotations, ~17% (257 genes) had sufficient co-expression data yet no statistically significantly overrepresented ontologies, suggesting their regulation may be more complex.
The Synthesis of Ahyl Diazomethanes

Abstract A conyenient and rapid method for preparing aryldiazo-methanes from the related tosylhydrazones employing phase transfer catalysis with hydrocarbon solvents in good to excellent yields has been developed.
Design model for the baffle aperture region of a hollow cathode thruster

A current balance on the main discharge chamber of an electron bombardment thruster is carried out. It is shown that the discharge current is the sum of the net cathode emission current, the beam current, and the ion current to cathode potential surfaces. Measurements of ion currents outside the virtual anode surface in a SERT II divergent magnetic field thruster show that relatively few ions cross this surface. This implies that ions are directed preferentially toward the anode and cathode pole pieces. A simple theoretical model useful as an aid in the design of the baffle aperture region of a hollow cathode equipped thruster is developed. The electron diffusion process through the aperture is modeled in accordance with the Bohm diffusion theory. The model is shown to yield consistent results for a given thruster geometry over substantial changes in operating conditions. The model's design usefulness is limited by a factor of two uncertainty observed over different thruster/cathode region geometries and by the accuracy to which the plasma parameters required as inputs to the model can be specified.
The relationship between axonal and perisynaptic conduction times in the retinogeniculate pathway of cats.

Abstract We examined the degree to which conduction velocity differences between X- and Y-cells are preserved during transmission through the retinogeniculate synaptic zone. This analysis focused upon two measures: (1) axon time; and (2)_perisynaptic time. The first is the time required for an action potential to travel from the optic chiasm to the point of major branching in the optic tract. The second is the sum of terminal invasion time, synaptic delay, and the time required for postsynaptic processes which precede the generation of an action potential. The X- and Y-cell distributions of axonal conduction times differed markedly. In contrast, the X- and Y- distributions of perisynaptic conduction times overlapped extensively. Therefore, the overlap in optic chiasm latency distributions between geniculate X- and Y-cells arises primarily from the perisynaptic zone. Further, on a unit-by-unit basis, we observed small but significant negative correlations between axon conduction times and perisynaptic times within both the X- and Y-cell classes. That is, units innervated by faster conducting afferents tended to have longer perisynaptic processing times, and vice versa. This sort of relationship may act to enhance within-class synchrony in postsynaptic activity.
Absolute Isotopic Abundance Ratios of Common, Equal-Atom, and Radiogenic Lead Isotopic Standards.

Absolute values have been obtained for the isotopic abundance ratios of common, equal-atom, and radiogenic lead isotopic standards using solid-sample mass spectrometry. Samples of known 208Pb/206Pb ratio, prepared from nearly pure separated 206Pb and 208Pb solutions, were used to calibrate the mass spectrometers.
Meaning and form

Recent work in linguistics has assumed that “surface” differences in syntax do not necessarily reflect differences in “deep” structure, i.e., there are differences in form without differences in meaning. But in many, perhaps in all, instances where the assumption has been adopted in practice, an unsuspected difference in meaning can be found. It is a safer working hypothesis that linguistic economy requires all differences in form to be correlated with differences in meaning.
The heart protection study: High-risk patients benefit from statins, regardless of LDL-C level

The landmark Heart Protection Study (Lancet 2002; 360:7-22) found benefit in treating subjects at high risk of a coronary event with simvastatin 40 mg daily, regardless of baseline low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level and in all subgroups, including women and the elderly. The study found no benefit of simvastatin therapy in preventing noncardiac events (eg, dementia, osteoporotic fractures), and no negative effects, such as an increase in cancer, respiratory disease, or suicide.
SPIN EFFECTS IN THE WEAK INTERACTION

Modern experiments investigating the beta decay of the neutron and light nuclei are still providing important constraints on the theory of the weak interaction. Beta decay experiments are yielding more precise values for allowed and induced weak coupling constants and putting constraints on possible extensions to the standard electroweak model. Here we emphasize the implications of recent experiments to pin down the strengths of the weak vector and axial vector couplings of the nucleon.
Distributed Probabilistic Learning for Camera Networks with Missing Data

Probabilistic approaches to computer vision typically assume a centralized setting, with the algorithm granted access to all observed data points. However, many problems in wide-area surveillance can benefit from distributed modeling, either because of physical or computational constraints. Most distributed models to date use algebraic approaches (such as distributed SVD) and as a result cannot explicitly deal with missing data. In this work we present an approach to estimation and learning of generative probabilistic models in a distributed context where certain sensor data can be missing. In particular, we show how traditional centralized models, such as probabilistic PCA and missing-data PPCA, can be learned when the data is distributed across a network of sensors. We demonstrate the utility of this approach on the problem of distributed affine structure from motion. Our experiments suggest that the accuracy of the learned probabilistic structure and motion models rivals that of traditional centralized factorization methods while being able to handle challenging situations such as missing or noisy observations.
Kinetic and thermodynamic analysis of liquid-phase benzene hydrogenation

Liquid-phase benzene hydrogenation on Pd/{eta}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} catalysts was studied between 358 and 488 K and over an H{sub 2} pressure range of 7 to 54 atm. Kinetic data were obtained under differential reaction conditions that were free of all transport limitations, thus allowing the development of a kinetic model that could be compared to that for the vapor-phase reaction. In contrast to vapor-phase studies at 1 atm, no activity maximum was observed during liquid-phase hydrogenation between 358 and 493 K and at 54-atm H{sub 2} pressure. A model that invokes dissociative, noncompetitive H{sub 2} adsorption, addition of the first H atom as the rate-determining step, and a concurrent dehydrogenated benzene surface species was consistent with experimental observations. The fitted parameters were thermodynamically consistent and agreed with those from previous vapor-phase studies. In addition, thermodynamic analysis of the quasi-equilibrated hydrogen adsorption process indicates that in the presence of solvent effects, increasing hydrogen solubility in the liquid phase can increase the surface coverage of hydrogen. In the absence of any solvent effect, however, surface coverage depends only on the partial pressure of hydrogen and is independent of the nature of the solvent. Furthermore, when solvent effects exist, use of the liquid-phasemore » hydrogen concentration in the rate expression yields a solvent-independent adsorption equilibrium constant, while in the absence of solvent effects, P{sub H{sub 2}} should be used in the rate expression to acquire this parameter.« less
ABO blood group and incidence of skin cancer.

Background Previous studies have examined the association between ABO blood group and the risk of some malignancies. However, no prospective cohort study to date has examined the association between ABO blood group and the risk of skin cancer.
Suitability of Shale as a Construction Material

A study of many shale-like rocks from Pennsylvania was made to develop a material specification which would define shales suitable for use in appropriate types of construction. Specimens of shale were subjected to a wide variety of physical, chemical, and petrographic analyses. A simple classification of argillaceous rocks shows the nomenclature of shale-like rocks. A two-part test procedure was developed for rapid acceptance or rejection of shales in the field: screen by on-site observation of lamination thickness and weathering characteristics, and make final selections by using both an ethylene glycol soaking test and a modified Washington degradation test. Limiting values of the Washington degradation factor have been selected for specific uses of shale in construction.
Colostrum Milk and its Vitamin A Content

Summary A study of the vitamin A concentration of colostral milk has been made. The vitamin A content of the colostrum from barn-fed heifers in the first lactation was found to be more than double the vitamin A content of the colostrum from the same cows in the second lactation. A seven-fold variation in colostral vitamin A potency occurred in these cows which had been fed identical rations and maintained under uniform conditions. A marked increase in the blood plasma vitamin A concentration of the newborn calf followed the ingestion of colostrum and tended to reflect the concentrations of vitamin A present in the colostrum of their dams. With cows isolated from their calves the vitamin A potency of their colostrum of the first and second milkings was about the same. However, cows which were allowed to remain with their calves and in addition were milked out twice daily showed a decided drop in vitamin A potency between the first and second milking. The intravenous injection of 10 I.U. of oxytocin at the time of milking in cows isolated from their calves also produced a similar drop in vitamin A potency between the first and the second milking. The chief drop in concentration of vitamin A in the change from colostrum to normal milk occurred during the first three milkings following parturition, thereafter there was a gradual drop in vitamin A concentration over a period of several days to the concentration found in milk produced in mid-lactation.
Genetics of cosQ, the DNA-packaging termination site of phage λ: Local suppressors and methylation effects

The cos site of the bacteriophage lambda chromosome contains the sites required for DNA processing and packaging during virion assembly. cos is composed of three subsites, cosQ, cosN, and cosB. cosQ is required for the termination of chromosome packaging. Previous studies have shown cosQ mutations to be suppressed in three ways: by a local suppressor within cosQ; by an increase in the length of the lambda chromosome; and by missense mutations affecting the prohead's portal protein, gpB. In the first study reported here, revertants of a set of cosQ mutants were screened for suppressors, and cis-acting suppressors of cosQ mutations were studied; these included second-site cosQ point mutations, base-pair insertions within cosQ, and an additional genome-lengthening suppressor. The 7-bp-long cosQ, with the sequence 5'-GGGTCCT-3', coincides exactly with the recognition site for the EcoO109I restriction/methylation system, which has the consensus sequence 5'-PuGGNCCPy-3'. In a second study, EcoO109I methylation was found to strongly interfere with the residual cosQ function of leaky cosQ mutants. cis-acting suppressors that overcome methylation-associated defects, including a methylation-dependent suppressor, were also isolated. Models of cosQ suppression are presented.
CHANGES IN RESTING POTENTIAL DUE TO A SHIFT OF ELECTROLYTES IN THE CELL PRODUCED BY NON-ELECTROLYTES

Experiments on Nitella indicate that the resting potential is due chiefly to the outwardly directed diffusion potential of electrolytes which is set up at the inner, non-aqueous, protoplasmic surface surrounding the vacuole. We might therefore expect that any change in the concentration of these electrolytes would affect the resting potential. The experiments described here indicate that this expectation is justified. When a sucrose solution is applied at one end of the cell and water is placed at another spot, water enters at the latter, passes along inside the cell, and escapes into the sucrose solution, but the electrolytes are unable to escape into the sucrose solution (except very slowly) so that the concentration of electrolytes increases in the region in contact with the sucrose solution. Hence the potential at this spot increases. At the other spot where the water enters, the concentration of electrolytes decreases and the potential at this spot falls off. The changes can be carried out reversibly without injury to the cell.
NtCP56, a new cysteine protease in Nicotiana tabacum L., involved in pollen grain development

Proteinases play a critical role in developmental homeostasis and in response to environ-mental stimuli. Our present research reports that a new cysteine protease, NtCP56, is involved in the development of pollen grains in Nicotiana tabacum L. The NtCP56 gene, which encodes a protein of 361 amino acid residues with a calculated molecular mass of 40 kDa, is strongly expressed in anthers. The recombinant NtCP56 showed a high activity towards casein. Kinetic analysis revealed a K(m) of 2.20 mg ml(-1) and V(max) of 11.07 microg ml(-1) min(-1). The recombinant NtCP56 retained more than 50% of its maximum enzymatic activity from 20 degrees C to 60 degrees C with an optimum Tm range of 30-50 degrees C. The enzyme had a maximum activity at approximately pH 6.5. Suppression of the NtCP56 gene in anti-sense transgenic tobaccos resulted in the sterility of pollen grains. Our data indicated that, as a cysteine protease, NtCP56 might play an important role in pollen development.
The Case for Structured Random Codes in Network Communication Theorems

In the Shannon-theoretic analysis of joint source-channel coding problems, achievability is usually established via a two-stage approach: The sources are compressed into bits, and these bits are reliably communicated across the noisy channels. Random coding arguments are the backbone of both stages of the proof. This strategy not only establishes the optimal performance for stationary ergodic point-to-point problems, but also for a number of simple network situations, such as independent sources that are communicated with respect to separate fidelity criteria across a multiple-access channel. Beyond such simple cases, for general networks, unstructured random coding arguments are not sufficient. This was first realized for source coding by Korner and Marton, who showed that for a distributed souce coding problem where one only needs to recover a function of the sources random linear codes are necessary. The goal of this note is to extend this insight to pure channel coding as well as to joint source-channel coding problems, such as the problem of reliable computation over a multiple-access channel and a multi-access network with relays.
Pharmacists' Perceived Knowledge and Expertise in Selected Pediatric Topics

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to determine pharmacists' perceived knowledge and expertise required to make recommendations regarding selected pediatric topics. METHODS A questionnaire was distributed to 400 pharmacists practicing in community, hospital, and home care settings. This instrument explored their perceived knowledge, expertise, and comfort in providing recommendations related to 38 pediatric topics. The impact of responder demographics on differences in perceived knowledge and expertise for each topic were evaluated. RESULTS Ninety-five of 400 (24%) questionnaires were returned completed or partially completed. Forty-seven and 36 of responders practiced in the community or inpatient hospital setting, respectively. Seventy percent of responders reported that ≤ 40% of their patients were children. In general, responders believed they had the knowledge and expertise to make recommendations for the frequently occurring conditions or topics but not for the less familiar. Formal pe...
HDL Dysfunction: Is the Answer in the Sphinx’s Riddle?

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) was named in 1884 [(1)][1] after the Greek mythological creature the Sphinx because of its enigmatic nature, emulating the Sphinx’s riddle. S1P is a component of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) [(2)][2], but its role has not received widespread attention. In this
Compaction-related deformation in Cambrian olenelloid trilobites and its implications for fossil morphometry

Morphometric analyses of silicified and nonsilicified (preserved in shale) specimens of the olenelloid trilobites Olenellus (Olenellus) gilberti Meek (in White. 1874) and Nephrolenellus geniculatus Palmer, 1998, from the Lower Cambrian C-Shale Member of the Pioche Formation show that even well-preserved specimens in shales have undergone significant changes in lateral as well as vertical dimensions as a result of compaction. Analyses of cephalic landmarks show that in both species compaction causes posterior-directed collapse of the anterior lobe of the glabella, adaxial deformation of the ocular lobes, and abaxial and anterior splaying of genal regions. These shape changes are explicable in terms of observed exoskeletal fracture patterns. Landmarks show an increase in scatter around their ontogenetic trajectories that is generally proportional to the degree of lateral shift each landmark has undergone. Interspecific differences in compactional response may depend on the relative convexity of the cephalon. Olenellus (Olenellus) gilberti is a low-convexity species and shows marked lateral shape change, particularly in the genal region. Nephrolenellus geniculatus is more convex and shows less severe lateral shape change. Landmarks of both species exhibit an average trebling of the degree of scatter around their average ontogenetic trajectories in compacted samples. Because even well-preserved specimens in shales differ in shape from their pre-compactional appearance, results of morphometric studies utilizing metric distances between landmarks in trilobites where compaction can be detected must be interpreted with caution.
The Role of Shocks and Social Pressures in the Development of Citizenship Rights: Great Britain and Mexico's Divergent Paths

Drawing on T.H. Marshall’s classic analysis of how civil, political and social rights evolved in Great Britain, this article follows authors, like Rose and Shin, who used a “social pyramid” to illustrate how the inverted development of such citizenship rights in other nations may weaken liberal democracy. In contrast, I argue that this sequence varies depending on a society’s own unique history, and that no one single path can define the development of liberal democracy. In Mexico, the development of citizenship rights (mainly social, political and civil, following T.H. Marshall’s categorization) was catalyzed by a series of economic and security-related crises that impacted a broad cross-section of Mexican society. The result of these pressures —both from above (organized elites) and below (organized popular groups)— has been greater enforcement of already existing political rights. This major change eventually led to competitive ballot elections (since the late 1990s) which in turn has forced politicians to focus on reshaping social rights (e.g., making their application universal rather than selective). Since President Felipe Calderon’s (2006-2012) “war on drugs,” there has also been notable legislation —backed by widespread public support— to strengthen civil rights (e.g., 2008 criminal justice reform; 2011 reforms to the amparo and human rights).
On the kernel of the covariance operator for Markov semigroups, I.

We analyze the covariance operator from a Central Limit Theorem for functionals on countable ergodic Markov chains. We provide an algorithm for characterizing the covariance operator and determining its kernel. We present examples, including countable and finite Markov chains.
Can a central stitch over the Arantius' nodules provide a solution for preoperative severe native AI in LVAD patients.

PURPOSE To evaluate the evolution of aortic valve insufficiency (AI) after Park's central stitch in patients with severe, preoperative, native aortic valve insufficiency. METHODS We retrospectively studied 71 continuous flow LVAD patients between January 2004 and December 2010. Four patients with AI≥3/4 were treated with a central stitch. An intensive review of the literature was performed to debate the use of the central stitch in this population. RESULTS The AI at baseline (AI = 2.75 ± 0.5) and AI at last measurement (AI = 0.75 ± 0.65) is statistically different after central stitch (p<0.05) with mean follow up of 198.25 (± 146.70) days. Total cross clamp-time during the placement of the stitch was 15.5 minutes (± 13.062). CVA was not diagnosed in our cohort. CONCLUSIONS Park's central stitch can be successfully performed on patients with severe native AI (≥3/4) with good long-term results. Short ischemic time and simple application of the stitch are the biggest advantages. Due to the progression of AI in longstanding LVAD, the central stitch may be beneficial for LVAD in destination therapy. Since this is a small group of patients and also an early experience, more cases will be necessary to confirm these positive results.
Liver Metabolism and Toxicity of Thiophosphate Insecticides in Mammalian, Avian and Piscine Species.

SummaryThe quantities of active cholin-esterase inhibitors which accumulated when Malathion, Parathion and Guthion were incubated with liver slices from 2 mammalian, 2 avian and 4 piscine species were measured. The capacities of liver homogenates from these 3 classes of animals to inactivate the oxygen analogues of these compounds were also compared. The relative capacities of liver slices from various species to produce and accumulate cholinesterase inhibitors varied depending upon the thiophosphate studied. Fish livers had considerably less capacity than mammalian and avian livers to inactivate the oxygen analogues of Parathion and Malathion, but the destruction of the anticholinesterase activity of Gutoxon by liver homogenates did not differ appreciably among the 3 classes. The greater susceptibility of sunfish than mice to poisoning by Malathion or Malaoxon correlated well with what would be predicted from the liver metabolism studies. Toxicity-metabolism correlations were less obvious for Guthion and...
Neurogenic regulation of rate of achieving sodium balance after increasing sodium intake

Evidence that the renal sympathetic nerves have direct effects on renal tubular function suggests that neurogenic mechanisms may play an important role in the daily regulation of sodium balance. We...
Pränatale Entwicklung, Geburt und das Neugeborene

Man stelle sich folgende Situation vor: Eine Entwicklungspsychologin nahert sich ihrer Versuchsperson in der Absicht, deren Wahrnehmungsfahigkeit und Fahigkeit, aus Erfahrungen zu lernen, zu untersuchen. Zuerst spielt sie der Versuchsperson aus einem Lautsprecher nahe am Ohr ein lautes Schallereignis vor (einen Laut oder einen Ton) und stellt mit Befriedigung fest, dass die Versuchsperson darauf reagiert und sich heftig bewegt; sie schliest daraus, dass die Versuchsperson das Gerausch horen kann. Daraufhin spielt sie denselben Ton immer und immer wieder vor. So wie es jede andere Person im Labor kaum mehr ertragt, denselben Ton andauernd wieder zu horen, so scheint es auch der Versuchsperson zu gehen, die auf die Wiederholungen immer weniger anspricht und schlieslich gar keine Reaktion mehr zeigt. Hat die Versuchsperson gelernt, den Ton zu erkennen, oder hat sie sich einfach schlafen gelegt? Um das herauszufinden, prasentiert die Forscherin nun einen anderen Ton, und die Versuchsperson beginnt erneut, sich heftig zu bewegen. Offenbar kann die Versuchsperson neben dem ersten Ton auch erkennen, dass der neue Ton anders beschaffen ist, was als Beleg dafur gelten kann, dass hier ein einfacher Lernprozess abgelaufen ist. Nun will die Forscherin herausfinden, ob die Versuchsperson auch etwas Komplexeres lernen kann und ob das Lernen auch in einer naturlicheren Umgebung funktioniert; sie schickt die Versuchsperson nach Hause und bittet deren Mutter, uber einen Zeitraum von sechs Wochen hinweg mehrere Minuten taglich aus einem bekannten Kinderbuch vorzulesen. Denn sie will herausfinden, ob die Versuchsperson die vorgelesenen Passagen spater wiedererkennt. Doch bevor die Forscherin wieder mit ihrer Versuchsperson zusammentrifft, passiert etwas ziemlich Einschneidendes: Die Versuchsperson wird geboren!
Evaluation of honey bee miticides, including temporal and thermal effects on formic acid gel vapours, in the central south-eastern USA

SUMMARYTwo field studies were conducted in the central south-eastern USA (Tennessee) to evaluate the efficacy of miticides for Varroa destructor and Acarapis woodi and treatments' effects on honey bee (Apis mellifera) colony health. We also determined the concentration of formic acid throughout the period that colonies were treated with formic acid applied to pressed fibre-board and in gel packs. In a late spring application, formic acid vapours dissipated more rapidly in gel-pack-treated colonies, dropping to an average of < 5 ppm at 13 d post-application. Average concentrations were 15 ppm at 13 d post-application in board-treated colonies. No deleterious effects on adult bee or brood populations were detected. However, formic acid fibreboard-treated colonies stored less honey during the treatment period. In a trial begun in late summer, gel packs, Apilife VAR (containing thymol, eucalyptus oil, menthol and camphor), Apistan (tau-fluvalinate) and oil strips (containing origanum and bay in olive oil) wer...
The Future of Intravesical Drug Delivery for Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer

Despite being the fifth most common cancer in the United States, minimal progress has been made in the treatment of bladder cancer in over a decade. Intravesical instillation of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) for the treatment of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) has been in use for over 30 years and remains the standard treatment in cases of intermediate and high risk disease. Despite the relative success of intravesical BCG, unmet needs in the treatment of NMIBC persist. These challenges include disease recurrence and progression even with treatment with BCG, as well as issues regarding its availability and patient tolerability. The inherent properties of the bladder pose the biggest obstacle to developing effective intravesical treatments for NMIBC. Current research is now focusing on methods to improve the delivery of intravesical therapies. The objective of this review is to discuss novel intravesical drug delivery systems and how they are addressing these challenges in the treatment of NMIBC.
Development of a set of benchmark problems to verify numerical methods for solving burnup equations

Abstract A comprehensive set of transmutation chain benchmark problems for numerically validating methods for solving burnup equations was created. These benchmark problems were designed to challenge both traditional and modern numerical methods used to solve the complex set of ordinary differential equations used for tracking the change in nuclide concentrations over time due to nuclear phenomena. Given the development of most burnup solvers is done for the purpose of coupling with an established transport solution method, these problems provide a useful resource in testing and validating the burnup equation solver before coupling for use in a lattice or core depletion code. All the relevant parameters for each benchmark problem are described. Results are also provided in the form of reference solutions generated by the Mathematica tool, as well as additional numerical results from MATLAB.
Stability of laser-propelled wafer satellites

For interstellar missions, directed energy is envisioned to drive wafer-scale spacecraft to relativistic speeds. Spacecraft propulsion is provided by a large array of phase-locked lasers, either in Earth orbit or stationed on the ground. The directed-energy beam is focused on the spacecraft, which includes a reflective sail that propels the craft by reflecting the beam. Fluctuations and asymmetry in the beam will create rotational forces on the sail, so the sail geometry must possess an inherent, passive stabilizing effect. A hyperboloid shape is proposed, since changes in the incident beam angle due to yaw will passively counteract rotational forces. This paper explores passive stability properties of a hyperboloid reflector being bombarded by directed-energy beam. A 2D cross-section is analyzed for stability under simulated asymmetric loads. Passive stabilization is confirmed over a range of asymmetries. Realistic values of radiation pressure magnitude are drawn from the physics of light-mirror interaction. Estimates of beam asymmetry are drawn from optical modeling of a laser array far-field intensity using fixed and stochastic phase perturbations. A 3D multi-physics model is presented, using boundary conditions and forcing terms derived from beam simulations and lightmirror interaction models. The question of optimal sail geometry can be pursued, using concepts developed for the baseline hyperboloid. For example, higher curvature of the hyperboloid increases stability, but reduces effective thrust. A hyperboloid sail could be optimized by seeking the minimum curvature that is stable over the expected range of beam asymmetries.
Liquid chromatographic determination of oxytetracycline in edible fish fillets from six species of fish

The approved use of oxytetracycline (OTC) in U.S. aquaculture is limited to specific diseases in salmonids and channel catfish. OTC may also be effective in controlling diseases in other fish species important to public aquaculture, but before approved use of OTC can be augmented, an analytical method for determining OTC in fillet tissue from multiple species of fish will be required to support residue depletion studies. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a liquid chromatographic (LC) method that is accurate, precise, and sensitive for OTC in edible fillets from multiple species of fish. Homogenized fillet tissues from walleye, Atlantic salmon, striped bass, white sturgeon, rainbow trout, and channel catfish were fortified with OTC at nominal concentrations of 10, 20, 100, 1000, and 5000 ng/g. In tissues fortified with OTC at 100, 1000, and 5000 ng/g, mean recoveries ranged from 83 to 90%, and relative standard deviations (RSDs) ranged from 0.9 to 5.8%. In all other tissues, mean recoveries ranged from 59 to 98%, and RSDs ranged from 3.3 to 20%. Method quantitation limits ranged from 6 to 22 ng/g for the 6 species. The LC parameters produced easily integratable OTC peaks without coelution of endogenous compounds. The method is accurate, precise, and sensitive for OTC in fillet tissue from 6 species of fish from 5 phylogenetically diverse groups.
Risk Assessment for Groundwater Contamination: I

This paper constitutes Part I of a two-part article. Both parts focus on the risk assessment and management process in terms of the ever-present problem of groundwater contamination and its prevention and correction. Part I provides a brief definition of terms and concepts in risk assessment and management, develops a brief taxonomy of risk assessment methodologies, and briefly discusses the imperativeness of multiple-objective optimization in risk assessment and management. Part II details the mathematical process of risk quantification, illustrates the risk assessment and management process through a specific example problem concerned with groundwater contamination, focusing on its risk quantification aspects, uses the partitioned multiobjective risk method to demonstrate an effective methodlogy for handling extreme events, analyzes the computational results in terms of management policy options and multiobjective trade-offs, and relates the entire risk assessment and management process to multiobjective trade-off analysis and to decision support systems.
Treatment Duration After Acute Symptomatic Seizures in Neonates: A Multicenter Cohort Study

We aimed to define determinants of duration of treatment for acute symptomatic neonatal seizures in a contemporary multicenter observational cohort study. After adjustment for potential confounders, only study site and seizure etiology remained significantly associated with the chance of continuing antiseizure medication after discharge to home.
A Novel Nr4a1GFP Reporter System Reveals That Nr4a1 Expression Identifies Long-Term Hematopoietic Stem Cells

Abstract Abstract 2339 Recent studies have highlighted the importance of the NR4A nuclear receptor family (Nur77 (Nr4a1), Nurr1 (Nr4a3), Nor1 (Nr4a2)) in the regulation of hematopoiesis. In murine models, NR4A gene deficiencies lead to aberrant proliferation of hematopoietic stem cells, and can lead to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). NR4A gene deficiencies also appear to be a feature in human AML cells. In order to better understand the pattern of expression and function of NR4A family members during normal hematopoiesis, we have developed a novel reporter mouse where the Nr4a1 promoter drives GFP expression (Nr4a1GFP). Our analyses reveal a hierarchy in Nr4a1 expression among bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells: long-term (LT) HSC's (CD150+CD48-LSKs) express the highest levels of Nr4a1GFP, more mature HSC's and multilineage progenitor populations (CD150+CD48+ and CD150-CD48+ LSKs) express intermediate levels, and common myeloid progenitors (CMLs, defined as Lin-c-kit+sca-1-) express no Nr4a1GFP. Interestingly, circulating LSK's in the spleen express Nr4a1GFP at higher levels than their bone marrow counterparts. In support of data suggesting that Nr4a family members regulate quiescence, we find that 1) all hematopoietic stem cells that remain in the bone marrow after acute (36h) 5-FU treatment express Nr4a1GFP, 2) Nr4a1GFP expression decreases among circulating splenic LSKs 48 hours after treatment with PolyI:C, and 3) Nr4a1GFP expression increases markedly when stem cells are cultured in vitro under conditions that promote quiescence. We will use this novel system to more directly address the role of Nr4a1 expression in hematopoiesis by evaluating the cell cycle status and defining the reconstitution potential of HSC's on the basis of their Nr4a1GFP expression. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Mapping of brown planthopper [Nilaparvata lugens (Stål)] resistance gene (bph5) in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Brown planthopper (BPH) has emerged as one of the most devastating pests of rice in several Asian countries. Cultivation of planthopper resistant varieties is an ecologically acceptable strategy. A population of 255 F2:3 families from the cross Taichung Native 1/ARC10550 was used to map BPH resistance with 106 polymorphic simple sequence repeat markers. The inheritance pattern of different traits suggested that the resistance in ARC10550 is controlled by quantitative traits instead of a single recessive gene. The quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for BPH resistance were analysed for nine phenotypic traits. Several of these phenotypic traits recorded high degree of positive or negative correlations between them, suggesting dependence or redundancy of the tests. QTL analysis revealed that five major loci were associated with resistance, one for damage score (qBphDs6) on chromosome 6, two for nymphal preference at 48 and 72 h (qBphNp(48h)-1 and qBphNp(72h)-12) on chromosome 1 and 12 and two for days to wilt (qBphDw(30)-3 and qBphDw(30)-8) on chromosome 3 and 8 explaining the phenotypic variance of 24.23, 8.69, 7.66, 4.55 and 10.48% respectively. These QTLs indicated the negative additive effects suggesting that the resistant alleles identified were from ARC10550 donor parent. These QTLs jointly explained 55.6% of the phenotypic variance for BPH resistance in this population.
The Relational Ethics Genogram: An Integration of Genogram and Relational Ethics

ABSTRACTRelational ethics highlighting the role of ethics, justice, trust, and loyalty in close relationships (Boszormenyi-Nagy & Krasner, 1986) is considered as one of the most bountiful yet obscure aspects of contextual family therapy. In this article, a visual diagramming activity integrating relational ethics and genogram work is presented as an assessment and intervention.
Mechanical behavior and failure mechanisms of Li-ion battery separators

Abstract Anisotropic mechanical properties were experimentally determined and compared for three types of commercially available Li-ion battery separators: Celgard 2325, Celgard PP2075 dry-processed polymer separators, and DreamWeaver Gold 40 non-woven separator. Significant amount of anisotropy of properties was determined, with the Young's modulus being different by up to a factor of 5 and ultimate strength being different by a factor of 10 between orthogonal directions within a polymer separator layer. Strain rate sensitivity was investigated by applying strain rates ranging from 1 ⋅ 10 − 4 s−1 to 0.1 s−1. Significant strengthening was observed and the strain rate strengthening coefficients were determined for both elastic modulus and yield stress in case of polymer separators. Digital image correlation technique was used to measure and map the strains over the specimen's gage section. Significant strain concentration in bands running perpendicular to the tensile axis was observed in polymer separator samples oriented in transverse direction. Such localized necking allows for extremely high strains close to 300% to develop in the material. The failure mode was remarkably different for all three types of separators which adds additional variable in safe design of Li-ion batteries for prevention of internal short circuits.
“You Can’t Bring Your Cat to Work”: Challenges Mothers Face Combining Breastfeeding and Working

Despite increasing emphasis in recent years on the importance of breastfeeding for public health, rates in the United States still fall short of goals set by health organizations. In particular, breastfeeding rates for working mothers are lower than for stay at home mothers, despite policy changes to facilitate breastfeeding and working. Based on interviews with 23 mothers who were participants in breastfeeding support groups, this study explores some of the factors contributing to women’s difficulty combining breastfeeding and working. Findings indicate that some women do not return to work because they believe working and breastfeeding are not compatible, while those who do work and breastfeed often lack support from coworkers and managers. In order to improve breastfeeding rates for working mothers, organizations should make their support for breastfeeding mothers explicit beyond formal policies such as lactation rooms.
Neurocognitive dysfunction in problem gamblers with co-occurring antisocial personality disorder

Abstract Objectives Problem gamblers with symptoms of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) may represent a distinct problem gambling subtype, but the neurocognitive profile of individuals affected by both disorders is poorly characterized. Method Non-treatment-seeking young adults (18–29years) who gambled ≥5 times in the preceding year were recruited from the general community. Problem gamblers (defined as those meeting ≥1 DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for gambling disorder) with a lifetime history of ASPD ( N =26) were identified using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) and compared with controls ( N =266) using questionnaire-based impulsivity scales and objective computerized neuropsychological tasks. Findings were uncorrected for multiple comparisons. Effect sizes were calculated using Cohen's d . Results Problem gambling with ASPD was associated with significantly elevated gambling disorder symptoms, lower quality of life, greater psychiatric comorbidity, higher impulsivity questionnaire scores on the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale ( d =0.4) and Eysenck Impulsivity Questionnaire ( d =0.5), and impaired cognitive flexibility ( d =0.4), executive planning ( d =0.4), and an aspect of decision-making ( d =0.6). Performance on measures of response inhibition, risk adjustment, and quality of decision making did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusions These preliminary findings, though in need of replication, support the characterization of problem gambling with ASPD as a subtype of problem gambling associated with higher rates of impulsivity and executive function deficits. Taken together, these results may have treatment implications.
The Evolution of the Master of Science in Information Technology Curriculum

This paper describes an ongoing process of assessment that lays the foundation for the success of the Master of Science in Information Technology degree (MSIT). It also presents a plan for a complete revision of the MSIT program using a proposed methodology - a data-driven 360 Degree Review. This methodology provides resources for those interested in program improvement.
Analysis of Distributed Energy System for a Typical SoCal Residential Home

This study presents a simulation and cost analysis of a distributed energy system for a typical Southern California residential home. A method of simulating a residentially distributed energy system comprised of a fuel cell, a battery, and photovoltaics has been developed. The simulation was performed by developing solar insolation profiles and diurnal demand profiles from energy statistics, and then using them to determine the performance of the system components and estimate the annual operational costs. The results of this simulation were then used to assess the cost effectiveness of the energy system as household size and system component capacities were varied. The simulation results show that the increasing of the photovoltaic capacity has a significant impact on reducing the payback time as higher capacities reduce operation costs by allowing for more electricity to be sold back to the grid. The results payback period decreases as the number of members in a household increases. However, it is found that variation in the capacity of the battery does not have a significant impact on payback time and tends to reduce system performance or adds unnecessary cost if capacity increases or decreases from an optimal value. The present work plays an important role not only for policy makers and utility companies to promote the renewable energy usage, but also for residents to understand the benefits of distributed energy system in residential applications.Copyright © 2017 by ASME
Association Behavior of Synthetic and Naturally Occurring Surfactants in Nonaqueous Solvents

The behavior of associating systems, especially surfactants in nonaqueous media have been investigated using spectroscopic techniques, principally 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, as well as thermodynamic ones, primarily vapor pressure osmometry (VPO). Among the surfactants investigated are alkylammonium carboxylates, such as hexylammonium propionate (HAP) and dodecylammonium propionate (DAP), and steroidal compounds, such as the methyl and ethyl esters of the bile acids. The association phenomena of alkylammonium carboxylates in organic solvents are indicated by the concentration dependence of the proton chemical shifts. The results of VPO studies of DAP in cyclohexane and benzene clearly show association behavior, which confirms the conclusion from proton NMR work. Additionally, an indefinite sequential type 1 association model for DAP was found to produce the best fit of the experimental VPO data. The proton chemical shifts of HAP in benzene-dimethyl sulfoxide mixtures also have been extensively studied. The self-association behavior of bile acid esters in chloroform at 37°C has been eluciadated using VPO techniques since only one peak in the proton NMR spectra of methyl cholate in chloroform, for example, was found to be sensitive to concentration effects. This peak was assigned to a hydroxyl group involved in hydrogen bonding. However, 13C spin-lattice relaxation times (T1) of methyl cholate in CDCl3 decrease with increasing concentration, indicative of the self-association behavior found using VPO. Finally, the conclusions obtained by the combination of experimental approaches to investigations of self-associating systems are summarized, and models describing the association behavior in non-aqueous solvents are discussed and compared to those for aqueous systems.
Populus euphratica JRL Mediates ABA Response, Ionic and ROS Homeostasis in Arabidopsis under Salt Stress.

Sodium chloride (NaCl) induced expression of a jacalin-related mannose-binding lectin (JRL) gene in leaves, roots, and callus cultures of Populus euphratica (salt-resistant poplar). To explore the mechanism of the PeJRL in salinity tolerance, the full length of PeJRL was cloned from P. euphratica and was transformed into Arabidopsis. PeJRL was localized to the cytoplasm in mesophyll cells. Overexpression of PeJRL in Arabidopsis significantly improved the salt tolerance of transgenic plants, in terms of seed germination, root growth, and electrolyte leakage during seedling establishment. Under NaCl stress, transgenic plants retained K+ and limited the accumulation of Na+. PeJRL-transgenic lines increased Na+ extrusion, which was associated with the upward regulation of SOS1, AHA1, and AHA2 genes encoding plasma membrane Na+/proton (H+) antiporter and H+-pumps. The activated H+-ATPases in PeJRL-overexpressed plants restricted the channel-mediated loss of K+ that was activated by NaCl-induced depolarization. Under salt stress, PeJRL–transgenic Arabidopsis maintained reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis by activating the antioxidant enzymes and reducing the production of O2− through downregulation of NADPH oxidases. Of note, the PeJRL-transgenic Arabidopsis repressed abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis, thus reducing the ABA-elicited ROS production and the oxidative damage during the period of salt stress. A schematic model was proposed to show the mediation of PeJRL on ABA response, and ionic and ROS homeostasis under NaCl stress.