cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Collagen-Rich Crystalloids in a Scarred Vascularized Cornea

Collagen-rich crystalloids, also referred to as collagenous crystalloids, are uncommon findings in benign salivary gland tumors with myoepithelial differentiation and in cutaneous neoplasms. Herein, we report the presence of collagen-rich crystalloids in the scarred, vascularized cornea of a 56-year-old woman. The patient underwent penetrating keratoplasty, and microscopic examination of hematoxylin-eosin-stained sections disclosed large aggregates of refractile material within the corneal stroma. The deposits were partially birefringent when viewed with polarized light and composed of radially arranged columns (long rectangles) with rounded to pointed tips. The deposits had tinctorial properties of collagen using Masson trichrome and the van Gieson method for collagen, and they stained with Alcian blue, pH 2.5, and Verhoeff elastic stain. They did not stain with Gomori methenamine silver, Snook reticulin stain, or tyrosine using the Baker modification of the Millon reaction. This is the first report, to our knowledge, of collagen-rich crystalloids in the cornea. Their presence in the cornea indicates that these structures may occur in the absence of neoplasia.
Firm size diversity, functional richness, and resilience

This paper applies recent advances in ecology to our understanding of firm development, sustainability, and economic development. The ecological literature indicates that the greater the functional richness of species in a system, the greater its resilience - that is, its ability to persist in the face of substantial changes in the environment. This paper focuses on the effects of functional richness across firm size on the ability of industries to survive in the face of economic change. Our results indicate that industries with a richness of industrial functions are more resilient to employment volatility.
3D-4 Analysis of Ultrasonic 3-D Image Compression Using Non-Uniform, Separable Wavelet Transforms

In this study, we analyze efficient volumetric ultrasonic data compression algorithms which require fewer computations and can be implemented with fewer hardware resources. Discrete wavelet transform (DWT) is used for compression of 3-D ultrasound data. Different wavelet kernels are analyzed and benchmarked for compression of experimental signals. In order to reduce computational complexity, non-uniform DWT method is utilized where different wavelet Alters are applied to ultrasonic axial resolution and spatial resolutions. Axial resolution contains more information than spatial resolutions; therefore simple wavelet filters such as Haar can be used for the spatial resolutions reducing the computations significantly.
High‐Temperature Stability of Lanthanum Orthophosphate (Monazite) on Silicon Carbide at Low Oxygen Partial Pressures

The stability of lanthanum orthophosphate (LaPO4) on SiC was investigated using a LaPO4-coated SiC fiber at 1200°–1400°C at low oxygen partial pressures. A critical oxygen partial pressure exists below which LaPO4 is reduced in the presence of SiC and reacts to form La2O3 or La2Si2O7 and SiO2 as the solid reaction products. The critical oxygen partial pressure increases from ∼0.5 Pa at 1200°C to ∼50 Pa at 1400°C. Above the critical oxygen partial pressure, a thin SiO2 film, which acts as a reaction barrier, exists between the SiC fiber and the LaPO4 coating. Continuous LaPO4 coatings and high strengths were obtained for coated fibers that were heated at or below 1300°C and just above the critical oxygen partial pressure for each temperature. At temperatures above 1300°C, the thin LaPO4 coating becomes morphologically unstable due to free-energy minimization as the grain size reaches the coating thickness, which allows the SiO2 oxidation product to penetrate the coating.
Inexactness of SDP Relaxation and Valid Inequalities for Optimal Power Flow

It has been recently proven that the semidefinite programming (SDP) relaxation of the optimal power flow problem over radial networks is exact under technical conditions such as not including generation lower bounds or allowing load over-satisfaction. In this paper, we investigate the situation where generation lower bounds are present. We show that even for a 2-bus 1-generator system, the SDP relaxation can have all possible approximation outcomes, that is 1) SDP relaxation may be exact, 2) SDP relaxation may be inexact, or 3) SDP relaxation may be feasible while the optimal power flow (OPF) instance may be infeasible. We provide a complete characterization of when these three approximation outcomes occur and an analytical expression of the resulting optimality gap for this 2-bus system. In order to facilitate further research, we design a library of instances over radial networks in which the SDP relaxation has positive optimality gap. Finally, we propose valid inequalities and variable bound tightening techniques that significantly improve the computational performance of a global optimization solver. Our work demonstrates the need of developing efficient global optimization methods for the solution of OPF even in the simple but fundamental case of radial networks.
Ignition Enhancement Using Magnetic Gliding Arc

The non-thermal ignition enhancement by a non-equilibrium magnetic gliding arc (MGA) integrated with a counterflow diffusion flame burner plasma was experimentally and computationally investigated. The system provided a well-defined platform to study nonthermal ignition enhancement by a non-equilibrium plasma discharge. Up to a 240 K decrease in the ignition temperatures for 20% CH4 in 80% N2 versus air counterflow diffusion flames was observed by activating the heated air stream with the MGA when compared to only heated air at the same strain rate. Modeling of the plasma production of radicals was performed and was based upon experimentally measured voltage-current characteristic curves and rotational and vibrational temperatures of the MGA. Computational simulations of the counterflow diffusion flame ignition were subsequently performed with initial conditions of the concentration of O and NO from the plasma modeling. The simulation results showed a significant decrease in the temperatures at ignition when mimicking the MGA, exhibiting qualitatively similar behavior to the experimental results. The modeling suggested that with O and NO addition, the ignition at low temperatures was purely kinetic with NO being the major contributor. However, with increasing strain rate, the kinetic ignition disappeared, being replaced by thermal ignition. The kinetic enhancement by NO became weaker with increasing temperature, eventually converging with the second ignition limit (high temperature ignition limit). This demonstrated that plasma enhancement will depend upon the species produced, their concentrations, the gas temperature and lastly the characteristic flow residence times in the system.
Tocolysis for Women With Early Spontaneous Preterm Labor and Advanced Cervical Dilation.

Objective To characterize tocolytic use and examine perinatal outcomes among women presenting very preterm with spontaneous labor and cervical dilation 4 cm or greater. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study. Data from January 2000 to June 2011 in a single health care system were reviewed. Women with singleton, nonanomalous fetuses and preterm labor with intact membranes between 23 and 32 weeks of gestation who had cervical dilation 4 cm or greater and less than 8 cm at admission were included. Women receiving one or more tocolytics (magnesium sulfate, indomethacin, or nifedipine) were compared with those who did not receive tocolysis. The primary outcome was composite major neonatal morbidity. Results Two hundred ninety-seven women were included; 233 (78.5%) received at least one tocolytic. Women receiving tocolysis were slightly less dilated (median 5 compared with 6 cm, P .99), and delivery gestational ages were similar (28.9 compared with 29.2 weeks, P=.408). The incidence of chorioamnionitis and postpartum endometritis was similar between groups. Conclusion The majority of women presenting very preterm with advanced cervical dilation received tocolysis. Although tocolysis administration increased the likelihood of achieving at least 48 hours of latency, initial neonatal outcomes were similar. Level of evidence II.
313 RED CELL SORBITOL AN EFFECTIVE INDICATOR OF DIABETIC CONTROL

The importance of good glycemic control is the presumed prevention of the long term sequela of diabetes. Sorbitol is the product of an insulin-independent pathway of carbohydrate metabolism that has been implicated as etiologic in the complications of diabetes. The polyol pathway producing sorbitol is active in human erythrocytes. Fasting blood samples were collected from 62 children with diabetes. Serum glucose and red cell sorbitol were measured by specific enzymatic assays. Hemoglobin Alc was measured spectrophotometrically after column separation on Bio-Rex 70. Results: The correlation of fasting glucose and sorbitol was significant. r=0.26p<.05. The correlation of fasting glucose & HbAlc was not significant r=0.1. Elevated HbAlc in vivo remains unchanged after 24 hrs. of glucose concentrations <150 mg/dl but sorbitol concentrations reflect hourly changes in glucose concentration. RBC sorbitol directly quantitates a mediator of cellular pathology in diabetes as it reflects the mean blood glucose levels. RBC sorbitol is therefore the most useful indicator of effective diabetic management
Species and distribution of rodent in Longlin county

Objective To master the kinds,constitution and distribution of rodent,and provide basis for making decision on the control of plague in Longlin county.Methods The rodent was surveyed and classified by using cage-catching method in dwelling houses and field. Results Totally 4 829 rats were captured in recent 10 years,2 orders,3 families and 11 species of rodent were found in this area.Rattus tanezumi were the dominant species.The annual average density of rodents were 3.30%.R.tanezumi were 2.71%.There were two peaks in the seasonal variation curve of rodent,it's in May and November.Conclusion R.tanezumi should be killed in the control of plague in Longlin county.The best rodent control months are April and October and the important surveillance period of plague is from January to June and November.
Neuromuscular Blocking Agents

Neuromuscular blocking (NMB) agents are frequently used in the operating room (OR) as well as the intensive care units. The number of NMB agents available for use in these areas continues to increase. The clinician currently has 10 agents from which to choose, with another (rocuronium) soon to be available. NMB agents are classified as either depolarizing or nondepolarizing. Succinylcholine is the only depolarizing agent in clinical use today. It has the fastest onset of action of all NMB agents, but also the most adverse effects. The nondepolarizing agents as a group can be further differentiated by several characteristics: duration of action, cardiovascular effects, routes of metabolism/excretion, and cost. This allows an agent to be chosen based on patient parameters. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors can be used to reverse residual neuromuscular blockade. The introduction of agents such as mivacurium, with a short duration of action, may reduce the need for acetylcholinesterase inhibitors; instead, neur...
Standards in History: Evaluating Success in Stem Cell Experiments

The primary aim of stem cell biology is to harness the capacities of specific cell types for use in regenerative medicine. Experiments in this field are oriented primarily toward this practical goal, and its exemplary successes are practical accomplishments, such as creation of cell lines with desirable properties or regeneration of animal tissues in vivo. The question therefore arises: to what epistemic standard are stem cell experiments responsible? At the most general level, of course, stem cell experiments are responsible to evidential standards. Yet what this amounts to is not clear. Rigorous philosophical accounts of the hypothesis-evidence relation represent the relata as statements describing states of affairs, distinguishable from an array of alternatives. But in stem cell biology, statements of this kind are seldom made explicit. Major successes in the field take the form of new experimental methods and their products: mammalian cells with therapeutically-interesting properties and more efficient or less controversial ways of engineering them. This paper uses a historical approach to explicate a robust epistemic standard for experimental success in stem cell biology. This case demonstrates the importance of social-epistemic standards as part of a critical approach to contemporary biomedicine.
Cavity enhanced image recording for holographic data storage

We report the experimental verification of cavity enhanced recording of image bearing holograms in Fe:LiNbO3 with a 532 nm wavelength, CW, single mode, DPSS, Nd:YAG, laser with a cavity on the reference arm. Diffraction efficiency evolution was monitored via pseudo-phase-conjugate readout during recording. Additionally, optimization of grating strengths in standing wave cavity writing is explored, and a means of eliminating unwanted gratings via quarter wave plates with isotropic recording media is proposed.
Architecture: Communal Gathering in a Theo-Poetic Space

The built environment can be viewed as an extension of God’s good creation. This chapter shows how architecture aids one’s holistic formation by shaping and informing a person’s emotional existences. Church communities can extend a robust creational theology for generations to come by intentionally approaching architecture with a sense of God’s immanent presence and the surrounding natural elements. This chapter traces the historical innovations in church architecture through the centuries, positing that one can make truly formative architecture when he or she is mindful of the environment, community, and theological symbolism.
Circulating metabolite profiles to predict overall survival in advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients receiving first-line chemotherapy.

Abstract Objectives The prognosis for advanced-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is usually poor. However, survival may be variable and difficult to predict. In the current study, we aimed to identify circulating metabolites as potential predictive biomarkers for overall survival of advanced-stage (III/IV) NSCLC patients treated with first-line platinum-based chemotherapy. Materials and methods Using two-stage study design, we performed global metabolomic profiling in blood of 220 advanced-stage NSCLC patients, including 110 with poor survival and 110 with good survival. Metabolomic profiling was conducted using Metabolon platform. The association of each metabolite with survival was assessed by Cox proportional hazard regression model with adjustment for covariates. Results and conclusion We found levels of 4 metabolites, caffeine, paraxanthine, stachydrine, and methyl glucopyranoside (alpha + beta), differed significantly between NSCLC patients with poor and good survival in both discovery and validation phases (P
Postharvest Irradiation Treatment for Quarantine Control of the Invasive Lobesia botrana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae).

Irradiation is a postharvest treatment option for exported berries and berry-like fruits to prevent movement of the quarantine pest European grape vine moth, Lobesia botrana (Denis & Schiffermuller) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). The effects of irradiation on egg, larval, and pupal development in L. botrana were examined. Eggs, neonates, third and fifth instars, and early- and late-stage pupae were irradiated at target doses of 50, 100, 150, or 200 Gy or left untreated as controls in replicated factorial experiments, and survival to the adult stage was recorded. Tolerance to radiation generally increased with increasing age and developmental stage. A dose of 150 Gy prevented adult emergence in eggs and larvae. Pupae were more radiotolerant than larvae, and late-stage pupae were more tolerant than early-stage pupae. In large-scale validation tests, 150 Gy applied to fifth instars in diet prevented adult emergence, but some survival occurred in fifth instars irradiated in table grapes; however, 250 Gy prevented fifth instar survival in grapes. For most commodities, the fifth instar is the most radiotolerant life stage likely to occur with the commodity; a minimum radiation dose of 250 Gy will prevent adult emergence from this stage. For traded commodities such as table grapes that may contain L. botrana pupae, 325 Gy applied to mature female pupae sterilized emerging adults and may provide quarantine security. Radiotolerance in L. botrana is comparable to other tortricids, and the data reported here support a generic dose of 250 Gy for eggs and larvae of this group.
Late Ischemic Events After Clopidogrel Cessation Following Drug-Eluting Stenting: Should We Be Worried?⁎

Among patients with obstructive coronary artery disease, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has become a widely used therapy, especially among those presenting with acute ischemic events such as myocardial infarction and unstable angina ([1][1]). Since its introduction into clinical practice,
An Active Mixer for Microscale Purification and Sequencing Reaction Clean-Up

The development of an active micromixer using PZT-generated vibration for DNA purification and sequencing reaction clean-up is presented. The flow patterns inside the mixing chamber were visualized using fluorescent beads. A figure-eight flow pattern was discovered. The flow patterns observed demonstrated an apparent correlation to the vibrational mode shapes expected for the exciting thin PZT actuated silicon membrane. A model of a circular fixed plate was created for modal analysis using CFD-ACE+. Preliminary analysis was performed and is presented for free vibrations of the membrane in the absence of fluidic loading.
Composite Fuselage Impact Testing and Simulation: A Model Calibration Exercise

Results from a model calibration study of a composite fuselage front frame test article subjected to impact loading are presented. The effort, undertaken over a 2 year time period, involved both modal and impact testing of the front frame section of a composite fuselage test article. Data from both types of tests were used with multi-dimensional calibration metrics to assess model adequacy. Specifically, two metrics are used: (1) a metric to assess the probability of enveloping the measured displacement during impact, and (2) an orthogonality metric to assess model adequacy between test and analysis. Because the impact test is destructive, vibration test data were also collected for model assessments in terms of modes of vibration. To justify the use of vibration data for calibration of the impact model, the paper discusses how to assess the relevancy of vibration data for calibration of impact models. Finally, results from the impact test are discussed and compared to model predictions and model uncertainty bounds.
A Hierarchical Approach to Design, Planning, and Control Problems in Electronic Circuit Card Manufacturing

The competitive nature of the electronic industry has greatly intensified in recent years. The capital investment in this segment of industry constitutes a large portion of current industrial investments. Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are an important module of electronic parts, and consequently, highly automated manufacturing systems have been designed to produce the required circuit cards at the desired volume. The design, planning, scheduling, and control problems which arise in this environment are challenging and multi-faceted.
Influenza Virus Vaccination Elicits Poorly Adapted B Cell Responses in Elderly Individuals.

Summary Influenza is a leading cause of death in the elderly, and the vaccine protects only a fraction of this population. A key aspect of antibody-mediated anti-influenza virus immunity is adaptation to antigenically distinct epitopes on emerging strains. We examined factors contributing to reduced influenza vaccine efficacy in the elderly and uncovered a dramatic reduction in the accumulation of de novo immunoglobulin gene somatic mutations upon vaccination. This reduction is associated with a significant decrease in the capacity of antibodies to target the viral glycoprotein, hemagglutinin (HA), and critical protective epitopes surrounding the HA receptor-binding domain. Immune escape by antigenic drift, in which viruses generate mutations in key antigenic epitopes, becomes highly exaggerated. Because of this reduced adaptability, most B cells activated in the elderly cohort target highly conserved but less potent epitopes. Given these findings, vaccines driving immunoglobulin gene somatic hypermutation should be a priority to protect elderly individuals.
Evidence for an Endocrine Function of the Human Pineal Gland

Research to date indicates that the human pineal gland synthesizes and secretes hormones which probably influence the functioning of the neuro-endocrine axis. There is no basis for the idea that the human pineal becomes less functional with age, or as it becomes calcified.
Refractory vomiting in woman with diabetes.

A 68-year-old woman with diabetes mellitus presented to the ED with non-bilious, non-bloody vomiting for 2 days. The patient had chronic low back pain and had been taking ibuprofen for 1 month. She was discharged with the diagnosis of ibuprofen-induced gastritis and prescribed famotidine. The patient returned next day because of worsening vomiting. She denied abdominal pain except for a feeling of stomach distension. There was no fever or tenderness on exam. She was hospitalised for 2 days and treated with intravenous fluid, metoclopramide and ondansetron. Two days after discharge, the patient returned to the ED with the same complaint. The white blood …
Exhausted and outnumbered: CD4+ T cells in the myeloma battlefield.

The role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of hematologic malignancies has long been the subject of research studies [1]. More recently, knowledge on the mechanisms by which immune cell subs...
Antecedent immunosuppressive therapy for immune-mediated inflammatory diseases in the setting of a COVID-19 outbreak.

Background Finite clinical data and understanding of COVID-19 immunopathology has led to limited, opinion-based recommendations for the management of patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disease (IMID) receiving immunosuppressive (IS) therapeutics. Objective To determine if IS therapeutic type affects COVID-19 risk among patients with IMID. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of Henry Ford Health System patients tested for COVID-19 between February 1 and April 18, 2020, treated with IS medication for IMID. Therapeutic class of IS medication, comorbidities, and demographic factors were combined into multivariate models to determine predictors of COVID-19 infection, admission, ventilation, and mortality. Results Of 213 patients with IMID, 36.2% tested positive for COVID-19, and they had no greater odds of being hospitalized or requiring ventilation relative to the general population. No IS therapeutic worsened the course of disease after multivariate correction, although multidrug regimens and biologics predicted an increased and decreased rate of hospitalization, respectively, with the latter driven by tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors. Limitations A single-center study somewhat limits the generalization to community-based settings. Only patients tested for COVID-19 were analyzed. Conclusion IS therapies for IMIDs are not associated with a significantly greater risk of SARS-CoV-2 or severe sequelae when controlling for other factors, and tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors may decrease the odds of severe infection.
Genetic relatedness of Leptospira interrogans serogroup Autumnalis isolated from humans, dogs, and mice in Japan

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by pathogenic spirochetes of Leptospira spp., and peridomiciliary rodents are the most important reservoir animals for human infection. Dogs are known to be the reservoir animal of L. interrogans serovar Canicola, but the importance of dogs in zoonotic transmission of other Leptospira serotypes/genotypes remains unclear. This study reports the isolation of L. interrogans serogroup Autumnalis from two human patients in Japan and describes the genetic comparison between canine and mouse isolates using multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA). MLVA revealed that 8 out of the 11 loci compared were identical between the two human isolates. The human isolates clustered with the dog but not the mouse isolates. Moreover, the profile of one of the human isolates was identical to that of one of the dog isolates.
Placing the Anthropos in Anthropocene

In this article, we review the place of “the human” in influential approaches to the Anthropocene to expose the diverse conceptualizations of humanity and human futures. First, we synthesize curren...
Identifying cysteine residues susceptible to oxidation by photoactivatable atomic oxygen precursors using a proteome-wide analysis

The reactivity profile of atomic oxygen [O(3P)] in the condensed phase has shown a preference for the thiol group of cysteines. In this work, water-soluble O(3P)-precursors were synthesized by adding aromatic burdens and water-soluble sulphonic acid groups to the core structure of dibenzothiophene-S-oxide (DBTO) to study O(3P) reactivity in cell lysates and live cells. The photodeoxygenation of these compounds was investigated using common intermediates, which revealed that an increase in aromatic burdens to the DBTO core structure decreases the total oxidation yield due to competitive photodeoxygenation mechanisms. These derivatives were then tested in cell lysates and live cells to profile changes in cysteine reactivity using the isoTOP-ABPP chemoproteomics platform. The results from this analysis indicated that O(3P) significantly affects cysteine reactivity in the cell. Additionally, O(3P) was found to oxidize cysteines within peptide sequences with leucine and serine conserved at the sites surrounding the oxidized cysteine. O(3P) was also found to least likely oxidize cysteines among membrane proteins.
A Mixed-Integer Fractional Optimization Approach to Best Subset Selection

We consider the best subset selection problem in linear regression—that is, finding a parsimonious subset of the regression variables that provides the best fit to the data according to some predef...
Hypercalciuria switches Ca2+ signaling in proximal tubular cells, induces oxidative damage to promote calcium nephrolithiasis

Abstract Proximal tubule (PT) transports most of the renal Ca2+, which was usually described as paracellular (passive). We found a regulated Ca2+ entry pathway in PT cells via the apical transient receptor potential canonical 3 (TRPC3) channel, which initiates transcellular Ca2+ transport. Although TRPC3 knockout (−/−) mice were mildly hypercalciuric and displayed luminal calcium phosphate (CaP) crystals at Loop of Henle (LOH), no CaP + calcium oxalate (CaOx) mixed urine crystals were spotted, which are mostly found in calcium nephrolithiasis (CaNL). Thus, we used oral calcium gluconate (CaG; 2%) to raise the PT luminal [Ca2+]o further in TRPC3−/− mice for developing such mixed stones to understand the mechanistic role of PT-Ca2+ signaling in CaNL. Expectedly, CaG-treated mice urine samples presented with numerous mixed crystals with remains of PT cells, which were pronounced in TRPC3−/− mice, indicating PT cell damage. Notably, PT cells from CaG-treated groups switched their mode of Ca2+ entry from receptor-operated to store-operated pathway with a sustained rise in intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i), indicating the stagnation in PT Ca2+ transport. Moreover, those PT cells from CaG-treated groups demonstrated an upregulation of calcification, inflammation, fibrotic, oxidative stress, and apoptotic genes; effects of which were more robust in TRPC3 ablated condition. Furthermore, kidneys from CaG-treated groups exhibited fibrosis, tubular injury and calcifications with significant reactive oxygen species generation in the urine, thus, indicating in vivo CaNL. Taken together, excess PT luminal Ca2+ due to escalation of hypercalciuria in TRPC3 ablated mice induced surplus CaP crystal formation and caused stagnation of PT [Ca2+]i, invoking PT cell injury, hence mixed stone formation.
Firsthand and Secondhand Exposure Levels of Maltol-Flavored Electronic Nicotine Delivery System Vapors Disrupt Amino Acid Metabolism.

Electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) use has become a popular, generally regarded as safe, alternative to tobacco use. The e-liquids used for ENDS vapor generation commonly contain flavoring agents, such as maltol, which have been subjected to little investigation of their effects on lung health from ENDS usage. In the present study, we examined the impacts of firsthand (3.9 mM) and secondhand (3.9 µM) exposure levels to maltol-flavored ENDS vapors on lung metabolism. Human lung bronchial epithelial cells were exposed to ENDS vapors using a robotic system for controlled generation and delivery of exposures, and the effects on metabolism were evaluated using high-resolution metabolomics. The results show that maltol in e-liquids impacts lung airway epithelial cell metabolism at both firsthand and secondhand exposure levels. The effects of maltol were most notably seen in amino acid metabolism while oxidative stress was observed with exposure to all ENDS vapors including e-liquids alone and maltol-contained e-liquids. Many effects of firsthand exposure were also observed with secondhand exposure, suggesting need for systematic investigation of both firsthand and secondhand effects of flavored ENDS vapors on lung metabolism and risk of lung disease.
Investigation of the pH-dependence of the oxidation of FAD in VcCRY-1, a member of the cryptochrome-DASH family

Vibrio cholerae cryptochrome-1 (VcCRY-1) is a member of the cryptochrome DASH family. The flavoprotein appears to use blue light both for repair of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) on DNA and signal transduction. Earlier, we found that it was almost impossible to oxidize the FADH· state upon binding to a CPD, and, in the absence of substrate, the rate of FADH· oxidation was much larger at high pH (Gindt et al. in Biochemistry 54:2802-2805, 2015). Here, we present the pH-dependence of the oxidation of FADH· by ferricyanide, which revealed a switch between slow and fast oxidation with a pKa ≈ 7.0. Stopped-flow mixing was used to measure the oxidation of FADH- to FADH· at pH 6.7 and 7.5. Substrate binding was required to slow down this oxidation such that it could be measured with stopped flow, but there was only a small effect of pH. In addition, resonance Raman measurements of FADH· in VcCRY-1 at pH 6.5 and 7.5 were performed to probe for structural changes near the FAD cofactor related to the observed changes in rate of FADH· oxidation. Only substrate binding seemed to induce a change near the FAD cofactor that may relate to the change in oxidation kinetics. The pH-effect on the FADH· oxidation rate, which is rate-limited by the proton acceptor, does not seem to be due to a protein structural change near the FAD cofactor. Instead, a conserved glutamate in CRY-DASH may control the deprotonation of FADH· and give rise to the pH-effect.
Income smoothing and audit fees

Abstract In this study, we examine the effect of income smoothing on auditors' pricing decisions. Analyzing a sample of 12,823 firm-year observations from U.S. companies in non-regulated industries for the period 2000–2018, we find that income smoothing is negatively associated with audit fees, suggesting that auditors favorably view smoothed earnings. This result holds when we control for other variables that have been identified as determinants of audit fees in prior literature, including client-specific (e.g., client size, audit complexity, litigation risk, and corporate governance), auditor-specific (e.g., auditor quality, auditor tenure, and auditor expertise), and engagement-specific (e.g., audit opinion, busy season, reporting lag) factors. Our results also hold across (1) alternative smoothing measures (with and without considering the use of accruals to smooth earnings), (2) different sources of income smoothness (innate vs. discretionary components) and (3) various robustness tests. Overall, our evidence supports the notion that auditors perceive income smoothing as signaling rather than opportunistic behavior, and thus charge lower audit fees. To our knowledge, this is the first study that examines income smoothing directly from the perspective of auditors.
Malignant neoplasms originating from the bones of the foot: Predilection of hematological malignancies and sex-related and ethnic disparities in amputation

PURPOSE Neoplasms originating from the "small bones of the lower limb and the overlapping joints" are rare but portend a serious prognosis. Current study utilizes a population-based registry in the United States to characterize the malignancies of the foot. METHODS National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Result database from 1975 to 2017 was queried to report incidence and survival data in 514 patients in the Uited States. Kaplan-Meier and Cox Regression were used to determine the prognostic factors affecting survival. Chi square test was used to assess the correlation. RESULTS Hematological malignancies constituted 14.8% of the entire cohort. Incidence of the foot neoplasms was 0.024 per 100 000 persons in 2017 and has not significantly changed since 1975 (p > 0.05). Disease-specific-5-year survival for the entire cohort was 73%. On multivariate analysis younger age groups, "localized" stage and extent of surgical resection were predictors of improved outcomes. A significant correlation was found between amputation with male sex and Hispanic ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS The current study analyzes data from population-based registry reporting incidence and survival data for patients with neoplasms of the foot. Independent prognostic factors include age, stage and extent of surgical resection. Amputation was found to be associated with male sex and Hispanic ethnicity.
Evaluation of a Leased Oyster Bottom in Mississippi Sound

Twenty-four pairs of spat plates, strategically located on a 600-ha (1500-a) oyster lease, were monitored biweekly to determine the rate of oyster spatfall. Spatfall occurred from May 6 to July 31 and again from August 15 to October 24, 1979. The greatest spatfall occurred from August 15 to September 4, 1979. Data from shell bags that accompanied the spat plates indicated a maximum growth of 3.2 cm in two months. Oyster spat which attached to the planted cultch materials on the leases grew up to 7.9 cm during the 17-month sampling period, ending December 11, 1979. The lease area is capable of producing commercial-sized oysters in two seasons.
Decision Theory and Hierarchial Processes

Management of technology deals with decisions of choice, timing, method of approach to technological change, rate of technological change, and commitment or investment in the various stages of technological development and ultimate change. Most of these decisions must be made under conditions of uncertainty, with insufficient and often unreliable information and with only vague knowledge of risk involved and opportunities available. Therefore, success in technological change is often uncertain.
The impact of ethical climate on job satisfaction, and commitment in Nigeria: Implications for management development

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of ethical climate on job satisfaction and organizational commitment in Nigeria, and to discover the extent to which unethical practices among managers have impacted upon managerial practices in Nigeria.Design/methodology/approach – The study followed a descriptive research design using survey methods with statistical treatment. Using the business directory of companies in Nigeria, a sample of 409 managers was drawn using a systematic random sampling technique. Multiple regression analysis and Pearson's product moment correlation were used to assess the influence of ethical climate types on job satisfaction and organizational commitment.Findings – The findings revealed that there was a relationship between organizational ethical climate and facets of job satisfaction. It was also found that ethical climate types explained 58 percent of the variation in overall job satisfaction. Also, the correlation between ethical climate types and organization...
An approximately truthful mechanism for electric vehicle charging via joint differential privacy

In electric vehicle (EV) charging, the goal is to compute a charging schedule that meets all user specifications while minimizing the influence on the power grid. Usually, an optimal schedule is computed by a central authority (called mediator) according to the specifications reported by the users. A desirable property of this procedure is to ensure that participating users truthfully report their specifications rather than maliciously manipulate the scheduling process by misreporting. In this work, we show that approximate truthfulness can be attained by adopting the popular notion of (joint) differential privacy. Joint differential privacy can limit the power of each user in manipulating the scheduling process by remaining insensitive to changes in user specifications. As a result, a user does not benefit much from misreporting his specifications, which leads to truth-telling behaviors.
Mass-Independent Oxygen Isotope Fractionation in Selected Systems. Mechanistic Considerations

Studies of the mass-independent effect on oxygen isotope fractionation (MIF) are summarized, focusing on the MIF in ozone formation in the laboratory, a similar effect being found in the atmosphere. (As used here the MIF for O isotopomers means that the usual three-isotope plot has a slope of about unity instead of the conventional 0.52.) The marked difference of results obtained with systems when there is extensive isotopic exchange (“scrambled”) and experimental conditions where isotopic exchange is minimized (“unscrambled”) is also discussed. Ratios of rate constants can be measured only in the latter and show large isotope effects. These large isotope effects were shown to cancel exactly when there is extensive isotopic exchange, and one then obtains instead an MIF for ozone. We also consider a possible role of the chaperon versus energy transfer mechanisms for ozone formation in influencing the temperature dependence of the MIF. MIF in other systems are noted. Separately we consider the CO+OH→CO_2 reaction, an isotopically anomalous reaction. It has sometimes been called “mass-independent” but has no O atom symmetry for the HOCO∗ intermediate and so no MIF in the above sense (ca. unit slope) would be expected on theoretical grounds.
Using an Annealing Mediator to Solve the Prisoners' Dilemma in the Negotiation of Complex Contracts

Research on computational models of negotiation has focused almost exclusively on defining simple contracts consisting of one or a few independent issues, implying tractable contract spaces as well as single-optima utility functions for the agents involved. Many real-world contracts, by contrast, are much more complex, consisting of multiple inter-dependent issues, resulting in intractably large contract spaces and multiple-optima utility functions. Complex contracts require negotiation algorithms substantially different than those that have been considered to date for simple contracts. Previous work by the authors has shown that endowing the negotiating agents with a time-decreasing willingness to provisionally accept inferior contracts (i.e. to 'anneal') results in superior final contract utilities, but creates a prisoners' dilemma wherein agents are individually incented not to anneal. In this paper we report a solution to this problem wherein the annealing is done by a mediator, and the negotiating agents are incented to follow a truth-telling strategy that maximizes social welfare.
Warfarin and boceprevir interaction causing subtherapeutic international normalized ratio: a case report

Chronic hepatitis C is a leading cause of severe liver disease. Protease inhibitors used to treat these patients are known to have many drug interactions, although there is limited data available between boceprevir and warfarin. This case report is the first in vivo drug interaction reported in the literature. A 73-year-old African American man was diagnosed with hepatitis C in 2004, and had decided to not initiate therapy. In 2006, he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism and was started on warfarin. His international normalized ratio had been stable on a dose of 13.75mg to 20mg/week over a period of 6 years. A liver biopsy in 2012 revealed marked fibrosis, leading the patient to start hepatitis C treatment with peginterferon alfa-2a, ribavirin and boceprevir. Three weeks after starting boceprevir, his international normalized ratio became subtherapeutic at 1.2. Upon increasing the warfarin dose by 16%, his international normalized ratio remained at 1.2 6 days later. Two months after initiating boceprevir, he reached a therapeutic international normalized ratio. His warfarin dose had been increased by 75% from his dose prior to starting boceprevir, from 15mg/week to 26.25mg/week. His hepatitis C treatment was discontinued at week 39 of the intended 48 weeks of treatment due to severe thrombocytopenia. Upon discontinuation of boceprevir, his warfarin dose was prophylactically decreased by 17%, which resulted in a subtherapeutic international normalized ratio of 1.48 1 week later. The warfarin dose was subsequently increased by 10% which resulted, 2 weeks later, in a therapeutic international normalized ratio of 2.8. Once stabilized, his new warfarin dose was 23.75mg/week, 37% higher than his original maintenance dose of 15mg/week prior to starting boceprevir. The co-administration of boceprevir and warfarin resulted in a subtherapeutic international normalized ratio. Upon starting boceprevir, his warfarin dose was increased by 75% over 2 months to achieve a therapeutic international normalized ratio. After discontinuing boceprevir, his maintenance dose of warfarin was 37% greater than his original dose. This is an original case report which demonstrates the significant effects of this drug interaction and the importance of monitoring international normalized ratio.
Is software engineering for everyone

The journey of Software Engineering education toward an undergraduate major reached another milestone with the draft publication of the most prestigious curriculum model to date. This paper reviews the model and traces its roots to show how it will affect the on-going debate over CS, SE, and IT.
Development of a new light stratified-charge DISI combustion system for a family of engines with upfront CFD coupling with thermal and optical engine experiments

A new Light Stratified-Charge Direct Injection (LSC Dl) spark ignition combustion system concept was developed at Ford. One of the new features of the LSC Dl concept is to use a 'light' stratified-charge operation window ranging from the idle operation to low speed and low load. A dual independent variable cam timing (DiVCT) mechanism is used to increase the internal dilution for emissions control and to improve engine thermal efficiency. The LSC Dl concept allows a large relaxation in the requirement for the lean after-treatment system, but still enables significant fuel economy gains over the PFI base design, delivering high technology value to the customer. In addition, the reduced stratified-charge window permits a simple, shallow piston bowl design that not only benefits engine wide-open throttle performance, but also reduces design compromises due to compression ratio, DiVCT range and piston bowl shape constraints.
Saphenous venous graft pseudoaneurysm: a review of the literature.

Saphenous vein graft (SVG) pseudoaneurysm is a rare complication of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. A review of literature indicates that almost one third of patients are asymptomatic at detection and a history of operative complications and need for re-exploration after the initial surgery may serve as useful predictors for the development of this rare complication. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12469 (J Card Surg 2015;30:70–73)
Preparation of Cells Permeable to Macromolecules by Treatment with Toluene: Studies of Transfer Ribonucleic Acid Nucleotidyltransferase

Abstract Transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA) nucleotidyltransferase was studied after making cells permeable to macromolecules by treatment with toluene. The conditions of toluene treatment necessary for obtaining maximal activity were defined. Toluene treatment was most efficient when carried out for 5 min at 37 C at pH 9.0 on log-phase cells. No activity could be detected if cells were treated at 0 C, or in the presence of MgCl2, or if the cells were in the stationary phase of growth. However, inclusion of lysozyme and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid during the toluene treatment did render stationary phase cells permeable. The properties of tRNA nucleotidyltransferase from toluene-treated cells were essentially identical to those of purified enzyme with regard to pH optimum, specificity for nucleoside triphosphates and tRNA, and apparent Km values for substrates. In addition to tRNA nucleotidyltransferase, a variety of other enzymes which incorporate adenosine 5′-triphosphate into acid-precipitable material could also be detected in toluene-treated cells. Centrifugation of cells treated with toluene revealed that tRNA nucleotidyltransferase leaked out of cells, whereas other activities remained associated with the cell pellets. Chromatography of the material extracted from toluene-treated cells on Sephadex G-100 indicated that toluene treatment selectively extracts lower molecular weight proteins. The usefulness of such a procedure as an initial step in purification of such enzymes, and its application to tRNA nucleotidyltransferase, is discussed.
A Correlational Analysis of Outcomes Across Learning Models: Why Students Outperform in Online Classes

Since the mid-1990s there has been a paradigmatic shift in the method by which higher education is delivered. Students are voting with their tuition dollars and increasingly enrolling in online courses. Studies have both lauded the effectiveness of online learning (e.g., Fillion, Limayem, Laferriere and Mantha, 2009) as well as proposed there may be a compromise in the quality of instruction for the online learner versus the traditional seated classroom learner (e.g., Astani and Ready, 2010; Carr-Chellman, 2006). The majority of academic leaders at public institutions of higher education report in an annual Sloan Consortium study that online learning outcomes are comparable or better than those achieved in the traditional seated classroom (Allen and Seaman, 2010). A study of one Midwestern United States business college (the “College”) focused upon the institution’s quest for equality across course sections despite model of learning employed. Online courses were carefully architected to achieve parity with seated classroom sections, as measured in a) time spent on content and activities and b) comparable learning outcomes. Several methods of assessment were used to monitor the effectiveness of this initiative, including a correlational analysis performed on seven semesters’ worth of data from the results of a standardized exit exam for BBA and MBA students. The exam used was the ETS® Major Field Test, which measures “critical knowledge and understanding gained by students in a major field of study” (ETS, 2012, para. 1). The aggregate mean scores of the exam revealed that graduating MBA and BBA students taking 75% or more of their courses online consistently outperformed those who opted primarily for the seated learning model and those who took a mix of online and seated courses. The exam was administered in a proctored setting and thus deemed a true measure of the knowledge demonstrated by the student. Its results supported the College’s quest for parity across models of learning.