cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Air–Ground Channel Characterization for Unmanned Aircraft Systems—Part I: Methods, Measurements, and Models for Over-Water Settings

The use of unmanned aerial systems (UASs), which are also known as unmanned aerial vehicles, and by the term “drones” in the popular press, is growing rapidly. To ensure safety, UAS control and nonpayload communication (CNPC) links must operate very reliably in a variety of conditions. This requires an accurate quantitative characterization of the air–ground (AG) channel, and this channel characterization is the focus of this paper. After providing motivation and background, we describe our methods and modeling approach, followed by a description of our simultaneous dual-band (L-band ∼970 MHz, C-band ∼5 GHz) measurement campaign and the over-water (OW) measurement sites. Example results for path loss and root-mean-square delay spread are provided, as well as the results for channel stationarity distance (SD), used in calculating small-scale Rician $K$ - factor and correlations between the two receiver antennas that we employed in each frequency band. Two distinct SD measures—the power delay profile (PDP) correlation coefficient and the spatial autocorrelation matrix collinearity—were used and found to be of the same order. Path-loss exponents are near that of free space, but significant two-ray cancelation effects for these OW settings warrant more accurate models, which we provide. Delay spreads in the OW channels are also dominated by the two-ray components and are hence typically very small (∼10 ns) but can exceed 350 ns. A third intermittent multipath component (MPC) is also present a nonnegligible fraction of time; hence, we provide statistical wideband AG channel models to represent this. Future papers in this series will report results for the AG channel with ground sites in other types of environments.
[Oesophagostomes in swine of the Amboise area, Indre-et-Loire].

L’etude de plusieurs lots d’Œsophagostomes provenant de porcs sacrifies a la station de recherches veterinaires Pfizer d’Amboise (Indre-et-Loire) montre qu’il existe indubitablement en France deux especes principales : Oesophagostomum dentatum et Oesophagostomum quadrispinulatum. Une troisieme espece Oesophagostomum granatensis, a egalement ete mise en evidence : elle est tres voisine d’Oesophagostomum dentatum dont elle pourrait etre une sous-espece. Elle en differe neanmoins par certains caracteres biologiques : degre de developpement des neufs en cours d’expulsion et evolution chez l’hote.Les auteurs donnent une clef de determination des especes.
Review and Analysis of Existing Mobile Phone Apps to Support Heart Failure Symptom Monitoring and Self-Care Management Using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS).

Background: Heart failure is the most common cause of hospital readmissions among Medicare beneficiaries and these hospitalizations are often driven by exacerbations in common heart failure symptoms. Patient collaboration with health care providers and decision making is a core component of increasing symptom monitoring and decreasing hospital use. Mobile phone apps offer a potentially cost-effective solution for symptom monitoring and self-care management at the point of need. Objective: The purpose of this review of commercially available apps was to identify and assess the functionalities of patient-facing mobile health apps targeted toward supporting heart failure symptom monitoring and self-care management. Methods: We searched 3 Web-based mobile app stores using multiple terms and combinations (eg, “heart failure,” “cardiology,” “heart failure and self-management”). Apps meeting inclusion criteria were evaluated using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS), IMS Institute for Healthcare Informatics functionality scores, and Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA) guidelines for nonpharmacologic management. Apps were downloaded and assessed independently by 2-4 reviewers, interclass correlations between reviewers were calculated, and consensus was met by discussion. Results: Of 3636 potentially relevant apps searched, 34 met inclusion criteria. Most apps were excluded because they were unrelated to heart failure, not in English or Spanish, or were games. Interrater reliability between reviewers was high. AskMD app had the highest average MARS total (4.9/5). More than half of the apps (23/34, 68%) had acceptable MARS scores (>3.0). Heart Failure Health Storylines (4.6) and AskMD (4.5) had the highest scores for behavior change. Factoring MARS, functionality, and HFSA guideline scores, the highest performing apps included Heart Failure Health Storylines, Symple, ContinuousCare Health App, WebMD, and AskMD. Peer-reviewed publications were identified for only 3 of the 34 apps. Conclusions: This review suggests that few apps meet prespecified criteria for quality, content, or functionality, highlighting the need for further refinement and mapping to evidence-based guidelines and room for overall quality improvement in heart failure symptom monitoring and self-care related apps. [JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2016;4(2):e74]
Production and Characterization of Laminates of Paper and Cellulose Nanofibrils

A novel laminate system comprising of sheets of paper bound together using cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) is manufactured and characterized. Bonding properties of CNF were first confirmed through a series of peeling tests. Composite laminates were manufactured from sheets of paper bonded together using CNF at two different consistencies, press times, and press temperatures. Mechanical properties of the laminates in tension and bending were characterized and the results were statistically analyzed. Elastic modulus and strength results met or exceeded those of a short glass fiber reinforced polypropylene and various natural fiber-filled polypropylene composites as well as some wood and paper based laminates. Stiffness properties, assuming perfect bonding within the laminates, were successfully estimated through a classical laminated plate theory (CLPT) with only 2–10% variation compared to experimental results. Laminates, together with CNF-peeled surfaces, were observed and qualitatively analyzed by SEM imagin...
Visualizing ferromagnetic domain behavior of magnetic topological insulator thin films

A systematic magnetic force microscopy (MFM) study of domain behavior in thin films of the magnetic topological insulator Sb1.89V0.11Te3 reveals that in the virgin domain state, after zero-field cooling, an equal population of up and down domains occurs. Interestingly, the cooling field dependence of MFM images demonstrates that a small cooling magnetic field (approximately 5–10 Oe) is sufficient to significantly polarize the film despite the coercive field (HC) for these films being on the order of a tesla at low temperature. By visualizing the magnetization reversal process around HC of V-doped Sb2Te3, we observed a typical domain behavior of a ferromagnet, i.e., domain nucleation and domain wall propagation. Our results provide direct evidence of ferromagnetic behavior of the magnetic topological insulator, a necessary condition for a robust quantum anomalous Hall effect. Direction visualization of magnetic domains in a doped topological insulator suggests ferromagnetic behaviour, satisfying one of the necessary conditions for a quantum anomalous Hall effect. Cryogenic magnetic force microscopy measurements of V-doped Sb2Te3 thin films reveals equal proportions of up and down domains- a zero magnetic state—after zero-field cooling. The subsequent application of a small external magnetic field significantly polarizes the magnetization of the film, with an increasing field enhancing the effect. In addition, visualization of domain reversal around the coercive field point reveals domain nucleation and domain wall propagation, hallmarks of typical ferromagnets. Ferromagentism induced by chemical doping of topological insulator is one approach towards achieving the quantum anomalous Hall effect, while the stability of the single domain state in V-doped Sb2Te3 is crucial for observing such effect in zero magnetic field.
G PROTEINS AND MAP KINASE CASCADES IN THE PHEROMONE RESPONSE OF FUNGI

Development in fungal systems occurs in response to environmental cues and external stimuli. Heterotrimeric G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) provide these systems with the ability to receive and transmit external signals into the cell. Once the signal has been internalized, mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and/or cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) cascades amplify and integrate various stimuli. Studies of heterotrimeric G proteins in yeast and filamentous fungi reveal remarkable evolutionary conservation in the signal transduction pathways of lower eukaryotic and mammalian cells. Because of the ease of genetic and biochemical manipulation, fungi have proven to be an invaluable system for dissecting the complex regulatory networks involved in higher eukaryotic signalling. In this chapter, we will examine cell-cell communication in fungi by addressing the pheromone response signal transduction pathway. The similarities and differences observed between the Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe yeast pheromone response pathways will be used as a paradigm for discussing sexual development in the filamentous species Cryptococcus neoformans, Magnaporthe grisea,Neurospora crassa, and Ustilago maydis.
IPM of western flower thrips

Several management strategies have been developed for control of WFT based on the biology and behavior of the pest. The following IPM strategies are described for control of WFT: physical exclusion and screening considerations; cultural controls such as weed control around greenhouses, avoidance of continuous cropping, and disposal of plant residues; monitoring; and chemical control.
The CF0 Energy-Transfer Inhibitors DCCD and Venturicidin Greatly Vary in their Effect on Proton Flux Across the Thylakoid Membrane

Illuminated thylakoids, like other energy transducing membranes, couple electron transport to ATP synthesis via the formation of an electrochemical proton gradient that is utilized to make ATP. Electron transport is coupled to proton translocation into the thylakoid lumen (proton electrochemical gradient formation), and proton flux down the electrochemical gradient is coupled to ATP synthesis. When the gradient is not utilized, ΔpH increases and electron transport slows down. Previously It was shown that. at a high external pH and a large proton gradient, when no ATP is synthesized, electron transport proceeds at high rates, a phenomenon termed ‘slip (1–3). Nevertheless, when proton flow through the ATP synthase is blocked with compounds known as energy transfer inhibitors, ΔpH will increase further and electron transport will slow down.
Log-linear models to evaluate direction of effect in binary variables

In this article, we present a new approach to determining direction of effects in binary variables. A variable is considered explanatory if it explains the probability distribution of another variable. In cross-classifications of binary variables, the univariate probability distribution of variables can be considered explained if omitting the univariate effects of this variable does not lead to an ill-fitting model. Directional (non-hierarchical) log-linear models are introduced that allow statements concerning the direction of association in binary data. Cases in which variables of latent linear regression processes are partially observed as binary variables reveal a close conceptual link between the proposed log-linear approach and existing direction of effect methodology for metric variables. A Monte Carlo study is presented that shows that the proposed approach has good power and enables researchers to distinguish the correct model from the incorrect, reverse model. The approach can be extended to multiple explanatory and multiple outcome variables. Empirical data examples from research on aggression development in adolescence illustrate the proposed direction dependence approach.
Management of Alloimmunization During Pregnancy

Once alloimmunization is diagnosed during pregnancy, maternal titers must be followed unless it is known that the father is also Rh negative. Maternal levels should be followed until a critical titer is reached, after which MCA Doppler studies should be performed. In severe cases, intrauterine transfusion may be needed [1].
Gravitational wave sources as timing references for LISA data

In the megahertz gravitational-wave band, galactic ultra-compact binaries (UCBs) are continuous sources emitting at near-constant frequency. The signals from many of these galactic binaries will be sufficiently strong to be detectable by the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) after approximately Omicron (1 week) of observing. In addition to their astrophysical value, these UCBs can be used to monitor the data quality of the observatory. This paper demonstrates the capabilities of galactic UCBs to be used as calibration sources for LISA by demanding signal coherence between adjacent week-long data segments separated by a gap in time of a priori unknown duration. A parameter for the gap duration is added to the UCB waveform model and used in a Markov-chain Monte Carlo algorithm simultaneously fitting for the astrophysical source parameters. Results from measurements of several UCBs are combined to produce a joint posterior on the gap duration. The measurement accuracy's dependence on how much is known about the UCBs through prior observing, and seasonal variations due to the LISA orbital motion, is quantified. The duration of data gaps in a two-week segment of data can be constrained to within approximately 0.2 s using Omicron (10) UCBs after one month of observing. The timing accuracy from UCBs improves to approximately or less than o.1 s after 1 year of mission operations. These results are robust to within a factor of approximately 2 when taking into account seasonal variations.
Fosphenytoin Population Pharmacokinetics in the Acutely Ill Pediatric Population

Objective:The purpose of this study is to describe the pharmacokinetics of phenytoin in pediatric patients receiving fosphenytoin.Design:Retrospective, population pharmacokinetic analysis.Setting:Emergency department or PICU of a large tertiary care children’s hospital.Patients:Patients less than 19
On Proportional Transitivity of Ordered Sets

For a finite partially ordered set (poset) P, denote by p(x<y) the fraction of linear extensions of P in which x precedes y. It is shown that if p(x<y) and p(y<z) are each at least u with u≥ρ≈0.78, then p(x<z) is at least u. The result stated is mainly a consequence of the XYZ inequality [5] and a theorem of Keith Ball (1988) which allows us to reduce to a 2-dimensional version of the problem.
Structure-Function Relations in Troponin C. Chemical Modification Studies

Troponin C (TnC) is the calcium binding component of thin filaments in skeletal and cardiac muscles. Calcium induced changes in the conformation of TnC transmitted to other components of the thin filament result in triggering of muscle contraction (for review see Leavis and Gergely 1984; Zot and Potter 1987). The 3-D crystal structure of TnC isolated from turkey and chicken skeletal muscle has been solved and refined recently at better than 0.2 nm resolution (Satyshur et al 1988; Herzberg and James 1988). The molecule appears to have two globular domains each containing a pair of Ca2+ -binding sites. Each site consists of a Ca2+ -binding loop flanked by two -helices, which are labeled A through H starting with the N-terminus. Sites I and II in the N-terminal domain are the “triggering”, low affinity, Ca2+-specific sites, and sites III and IV in the C-terminal domain are the high affinity Ca2+ -Mg2+ sites believed to be always occupied by a divalent metal in the living muscle. The two domains are linked by a 29-residue -helix (D + E or central helix) a considerable portion of which is exposed to the solvent. Since under the conditions of crystallization only sites III and IV are filled with Ca2+ the crystal structure represents, at best, the “inhibited” form of TnC. Herzberg et al. (1986) speculated that the conformational changes associated with Ca2+ -binding to sites I and II involve a change in the relative disposition of helices in the N-terminal domain leading to a structure similar to that found at the Ca2+-filled sites III and IV in the C-terminal domain of TnC and in other Ca2+ -binding proteins of known 3-D structure. Such transition would result in separation of helices B and C from the central helix. The Ca2+ induced increase in accessibility of Cys-84 in cardiac TnC (Ingraham and Hodges, 1988, Fuchs and Grabarek 1989) seems to be consistent with such a model.
Hadronic observables in p+p and d+Au collisions at RHIC using CGC+PYTHIA

Abstract The IP-Glasma model of CGC combined with the Lund model of PYTHIA provides a very successful description of hadron production from gluon dominated non-equilibrium matter in various small collision systems. This new CGC+PYTHIA framework, naturally reproduces several characteristic features of the hadronic observables such as the mass ordering of ν2(pT) and 〈pT〉, often ascribed to collectivity driven by hydrodynamics at the LHC [1]. In this contribution we extend our work to provide a systematic comparison of particle spectra and multiplicity distributions in p+p and d+Au collisions at the RHIC.
Do Profitable Farms Remain Profitable? Markov Switching Models Applied to Transition Probabilities

Financial vulnerability has been observed across agricultural production regions, however uncertainty regarding farms’ persistence within specific profitability category exists. This study compared farm characteristics that persist in most and least profitable categories then evaluated the probability that farms transitioned among profitability categories. Using 425 Kansas Farm Management Association (KFMA) farms that were present for the 20 year period from 1994 to 2013, persistence of remaining or transitioning to another profitability category were tested. Specifically, Markov transition probabilities were estimated for Kansas and the six regional KFMA associations. Comparisons of farms that persist in the highest and lowest profitability categories revealed no dramatic differences in acreage or other physical characteristics. Kansas farms tend to persist in their current profitability category, suggesting that operator skill and/or quality of farmland dominates random factors. In general, transition probabilities were greater for the highest and lowest profitability categories than the middle categories. Farms were observed switching from highest to lowest profitability categories between 5% and 20% of the time within one year. Farmers were likely to stay in the highest profitability group more than half the time. By contrast, farmers were likely to stay in the lowest profitability group 42% of the time. Just like with the most profitable group, the least profitable group has a greater likelihood of remaining at the bottom indicating random events do not cause persistence.
Cultural values, coping, and hope in Yup'ik communities facing rapid cultural change

Historical trauma and rapid cultural change contribute to a high burden of stress in Alaska Native communities. The goal of the Yup'ik Experiences of Stress and Coping Project was to better understand stress and coping in Yup'ik communities and the role of cultural values and practices in coping. Sixty Yup'ik adults aged 18-84 years took part in semistructured interviews. They discussed how they coped with salient stressful experiences and shared the things that bought them hope and peace. Interview themes were identified and inter-relationships between themes were explored through social network analysis. Participants discussed the importance of cultural traditions in coping, including subsistence, dancing and drumming, intergenerational transmission of knowledge, and reflective awareness of interconnections with others. Participants found strength in family relationships, spirituality, helping others, and coming together as a community. Three coping clusters emerged: Ilaliurucaraq (be welcoming) involved opening one's frame of mind and building connections; Yuuyaraq (Yup'ik way of life) focused on Yup'ik traditions and values; and Assircaarturluni Yuuyaraq (try to live a better life) involved healing from historical trauma. Findings illustrate the resilience and evolving strengths of rural Yup'ik communities facing a continually changing cultural landscape and provide information for developing community-driven culturally based interventions.
Cerebral Doppler Sonographic Measurements

The most sensitive method for the diagnosis of a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is color Doppler imaging of the blood flow in the pulmonary artery. When the pulmonary vascular resistance decreases postnatally, the increasing left to right shunt from the aorta to the pulmonary artery can be displayed by color Doppler within the pulmonary trunk. The shunted blood is »stolen« from the systemic circulation especially during diastole. This diastolic steal may cause hypoperfusion of the peripheral circulation. The increased incidence of severe intracranial hemorrhage and periventricular leucomalacia reported in the literature could be the result of hypoperfusion of the brain [1, 2, 13, 14]. Prophylactic treatment of preterm infants with indomethacin caused closure of the ductus and was associated with the reduction of severe intracranial hemorrhage [3, 4, 5, 6].
17 Type I interferon modulates ADAM17 activity in photosensitive lupus mouse models

Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by systemic disease flares, renal complications, photosensitivity, and other clinical manifestations. A research area of particular interest to our lab is photosensitivity, an immune system reaction precipitated by ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure that results in epidermal keratinocyte apoptosis and contributes to overall skin inflammation. Importantly, many SLE patients attribute a decrease in quality of life due to photosensitivity. Our lab has recently identified a mechanism in which a disintegrin and metalloprotease 17 (ADAM17) located on Langerhans cells (LCs) limits UVR-induced keratinocyte apoptosis and skin injury via keratinocyte epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) stimulation in mice and humans. While we have delineated the downstream effects of UVR-induced ADAM17 activity and expression in healthy and SLE skin, factors that regulate ADAM17 remain poorly understood. Previous studies have shown that elevated levels of type I interferon (IFN) are characteristic of SLE patients. Here, we hypothesize that type I interferon may regulate ADAM17 in LCs in lupus models. Methods To quantify ADAM17 activity, we developed an assay that uses flow cytometry and co-culture systems. We use this assay in in vitro models and in vivo mouse models. To quantify the relative ratio of IFN-inducible genes, we use quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). To apply IFN-k to mice, we solubilize the protein and paint it on murine back skin. Results In vitro methods showed that type I IFN was sufficient to reduce LC ADAM17 activity, and in vivo models showed that type I IFN receptor blockade corrected the LC ADAM17 defect in photosensitive lupus mouse models. We are analyzing qPCR data. Conclusions We show that type I interferon (IFN) can reduce ADAM17 activity on epidermal cells. We also show that type I interferon receptor blockade in lupus mouse models rescues ADAM17 activity. Our data together suggest that type I IFN in lupus may contribute to Langerhans cell dysfunction and propensity to photosensitivity in SLE. Funding Source(s): None
Incremental effects of diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease in medial arterial calcification: Synergistic pathways for peripheral artery disease progression:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) separately are known to facilitate the progression of medial arterial calcification (MAC) in patients with symptomatic peripheral artery disease (PAD), but their combined effect on MAC and associated mediators of calcification is not well studied. The association of MAC and calcification inducer bone morphogenetic protein (BMP-2) and inhibitor fetuin-A, with PAD, is well known. Our aim was to investigate the association of MAC with alterations in BMP-2 and fetuin-A protein expression in patients with PAD with DM and/or CKD. Peripheral artery plaques (50) collected during directional atherectomy from symptomatic patients with PAD were evaluated, grouped into no-DM/no-CKD (n = 14), DM alone (n = 10), CKD alone (n = 12), and DM+CKD (n = 14). MAC density was evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin, and alizarin red stain. Analysis of inflammation, neovascularization, BMP-2 and fetuin-A protein density was performed by immunohistochemistry. MAC density, inflammation grade and neovessel content were significantly higher in DM+CKD versus no-DM/no-CKD and CKD (p < 0.01). BMP-2 protein density was significantly higher in DM+CKD versus all other groups (p < 0.01), whereas fetuin-A protein density was significantly lower in DM+CKD versus all other groups (p < 0.001). The combined presence of DM+CKD may be associated with MAC severity in PAD plaques more so than DM or CKD alone, as illustrated in this study, where levels of calcification mediators BMP-2 and fetuin-A protein were related most robustly to DM+CKD. Further understanding of mechanisms involved in mediating calcification and their association with DM and CKD may be useful in improving management and developing therapeutic interventions.
Problems with My Computer: The Electronic Path Not Taken

Mrs. MZ comes in for a routine follow-up visit. She has long-standing diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, and generalized arthritis. She has mild non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy with mild dry macular degeneration; her vision is poor. She reports feeling okay with current medical therapy. She initially begins the visit with frustration about how difficult it was to get an appointment with me. In many years of seeing her, MZ has never missed an appointment and is usually seen every 3–4 months regularly. MZ complains that she repeatedly sent emails to get an appointment, to me directly, and finally tried to contact the office directly by phone.
Scaling up Evidence-Based Interventions in US Public Systems to Prevent Behavioral Health Problems: Challenges and Opportunities

A number of programs, policies, and practices have been tested using rigorous scientific methods and shown to prevent behavioral health problems (Catalano et al., Lancet 379:1653–1664, 2012; National Research Council and Institute of Medicine, 2009). Yet these evidence-based interventions (EBIs) are not widely used in public systems, and they have limited reach (Glasgow et al., American Journal of Public Health 102:1274–1281, 2012; National Research Council and Institute of Medicine 2009; Prinz and Sanders, Clinical Psychology Review 27:739–749, 2007). To address this challenge and improve public health and well-being at a population level, the Society for Prevention Research (SPR) formed the Mapping Advances in Prevention Science (MAPS) IV Translation Research Task Force, which considered ways to scale up EBIs in five public systems: behavioral health, child welfare, education, juvenile justice, and public health. After reviewing other efforts to scale up EBIs in public systems, a common set of factors were identified as affecting scale-up in all five systems. The most important factor was the degree to which these systems enacted public policies (i.e., statutes, regulations, and guidance) requiring or recommending EBIs and provided public funds for EBIs. Across systems, other facilitators of scale-up were creating EBIs that are ready for scale-up, public awareness of and support for EBIs, community engagement and capacity to implement EBIs, leadership support for EBIs, a skilled workforce capable of delivering EBIs, and data monitoring and evaluation capacity. It was concluded that the following actions are needed to significantly increase EBI scale-up in public systems: (1) provide more public policies and funding to support the creation, testing, and scaling up of EBIs; (2) develop and evaluate specific frameworks that address systems level barriers impeding EBI scale-up; and (3) promote public support for EBIs, community capacity to implement EBIs at scale, and partnerships between community stakeholders, policy makers, practitioners, and scientists within and across systems.
Access to Government Officials in the Age of Social Media

As social media platforms have become more pervasive, there has been a concomitant increase in the number of government officials using their personal social media accounts to perform official government duties. Most notably, President Donald Trump continues to use his personal Twitter account, established in 2009, prior to his presidency, to conduct a variety of official tasks. While the First Amendment’s Free Speech Clause traditionally protects an individual’s right to engage in self-expression, the Supreme Court has not unequivocally recognized an affirmative right to know as an extension of the First Amendment. Recent court decisions suggest this may change. This study addresses the contours of public access to government officials on social media. Specifically, it considers the circumstances in which government officials are likely to be held to a standard of accountability and the case for treating public officials’ social media accounts as public forums, including how factors relating to account ownership and content impact that analysis.
Germination variation facilitates the evolution of seed dormancy when coupled with seedling competition

Fluctuating environmental conditions have consequences for the evolution of life histories because they cause fitness variance. This variance can favor risk-spreading strategies, often known as bet-hedging strategies, in which growth or reproduction is spread over time or space, with some costs, but greater certainty of success. An important example is seed dormancy in annual plants, in which some fraction of seed remains dormant at any given germination opportunity with the potential of germinating later when environmental conditions may differ. Previous theory shows that environmental variation is critical for the evolution of dormancy. However, these studies have focused on temporal variation in reproduction, ignoring the strong observed effects of environmental variation on the germination fraction, a major contributor to fitness variance. We ask what effects germination fluctuations have on selection for dormancy by adding germination fluctuations to existing density-independent (d.i.) and density-dependent (d.d.) models of annual plant dynamics, extending previous analyses by including temporally fluctuating germination. Specifically, we ask how germination variance affects selection on the temporal average germination fraction, here used to define dormancy. When present alone, or when independently varying with other fitness components, germination fluctuations do not affect selection for dormancy in the d.i. model, despite generating fitness variance because this variance contribution is not reduced by higher dormancy. Germination fluctuations have strong effects in the d.d. model, favoring dormancy when present either alone or coupled with variation affecting plant growth. This is because germination variation causes seedling density to vary, which causes variable reproduction through variable intraspecific competition. Dormancy is advantaged under variable reproduction because it creates a more convex relationship between population growth and reproduction leading to benefits from nonlinear averaging. Predictive germination, a positive statistical association between germination and growth, weakens selection for dormancy under strong competition and strengthens it when competition is weak. Our results suggest that variable germination is a potential explanation for high levels of dormancy observed in nature, with implications for life-history theory for fluctuating environments.
Piggy Banksy: A Transformational Playground for Social Change Through Playful Co-Creation

The application of learning theories in transformational games offers a promising avenue to raise awareness on civic topics and drive community-based social change. Inspired by the ICAP framework as well as by participatory art and provocation practices, we designed Piggy Banksy, a transformational playground aimed at turning players into active and socially-conscious citizens. In this iPad-plus-shared screen game, players are prompted to channel their inner provocateur for social change in a public space through embodying the voice of a guerilla artist, co-creating social commentary in the form of an artistic poster. The game uses a real-life workshop format, collective storytelling, and a collaborative creation mechanic to enhance the in-game interactions and post-game conversations and actions.
Identifying "Your Skin Is Too Dark" as a Put-Down: Enacting Whiteness as Hidden Curriculum through a Bullying Prevention Programme.

In my second year teaching at the elementary level, two biracial first graders told a Black child that she could not play because her skin was too dark. I found myself, a white female teacher, usin...
The Peter and Dilbert Principles applied to academe

The academic literature has long held that firms typically develop a system of incentives and rules that are meant to encourage employees to maximize their effort, and the firms’ profits. As a result, firms’ employees often rise through the ranks of the hierarchies in their firms through internal promotion, a process that results in the development of an internal labor market. This study explores the process of internal promotion, and its impact on firm behavior, with particular attention to both the Peter Principle and the Dilbert Principle. Both a formal model and a brief application of it to higher education are presented. In the case of the former, data related to U.S. business school deans indicate that more than one-third of all appointments come from internal candidates, with fully 20% of these being made from the rank-and-file professorate, thus supporting the model’s implications concerning the Peter Principle. Additionally, the data also reveal that the tenure of a typical “outside” dean exceeds that of a typical “inside” dean, thus supporting the model’s implications for the Dilbert Principle.
Study of machining induced surface defects and its effect on fatigue performance of AZ91/15%SiCp metal matrix composite

Abstract The quality of surface generated in a peripheral milling of AZ91/SiCp/15% for varying machining conditions and its effect on the fatigue performance are investigated in this study. The machined surface quality was evaluated through roughness measurements and SEM micrographs of the machined surface. Tensile tests were performed to measure the mechanical properties of the composite. Subsequently, fatigue life of milled specimens was measured through axial fatigue tests at four loading conditions. Optical and SEM/EDS micrographs of the fractured surface were studied to identify the crack initiation site and propagation mechanism. Specimens machined at a lower feed rate of 0.1 mm/rev was found to have excellent surface finish and consequently higher fatigue life. At 0.3 mm/rev, the presence of feed marks and other surface defects resulted in a drastic decrease in fatigue life. Five distinct regions were identified on the fractured surface, particle fracture along and perpendicular to the surface, voids in the matrix due to particle debonding and pull out and typical ductile failure of matrix with embedded SiC particles.
Beliefs about others' global warming beliefs: The role of party affiliation and opinion deviance

Abstract People often misperceive other people's beliefs about global warming—for instance, underestimating the percentage of people who think global warming is happening. In the U.S., perceptions of others vary across political lines and interact with the extent to which partisans align or deviate from the views of their political ingroup. With an online sample of U.S. adults (N = 1214), we conduct a partial replication and extension of prior research on the relationship between global warming “opinion deviance” (i.e., taking a stance that conflicts with the prototypical views of one's ingroup) and perceptions of other people's views, using a different methodological approach. We found that, compared with partisans who align with the prototypical views of their ingroup (i.e., political party), opinion-deviant partisans consistently perceive a narrower partisan divide across several views (e.g., belief that global warming is happening, belief that it is human-caused, and support for climate policies), even when statistically controlling for self-reported opinion extremity. Additionally, opinion-deviant Republicans, more than opinion-aligned Republicans, perceive that more Republicans hold pro-climate views. Further, among both Republicans and Democrats, perceptions of pro-climate ingroup consensus correlates with both increased activism intentions and frequency of discussing global warming with family and friends. Our results support theoretical perspectives and research on opinion deviance showing that misperceptions of public opinion about global warming vary based on an interaction between an individual's party affiliation and their individual climate beliefs.
The ‘Michael’ Effect: Risk Perception and Behavioral Intentions Through Varying Lenses

This study sought to measure risk perception and behavior intention of residents in coastal counties in Alabama and Florida in areas affected by Hurricane Michael in October 2018. The aim was to ex...
Abscess Management: An Evidence-Based Review for Emergency Medicine Clinicians.

Abstract Background Abscesses are commonly evaluated and managed in the emergency department. Recent research has evaluated the use of ultrasonography, packing, incision and drainage (I&D), and antibiotics. There are evidence-based nuances to the management of specific types of abscesses, such as Bartholin, breast, dental, hidradenitis suppurativa, peritonsillar, and pilonidal abscesses. Objective This review provides emergency medicine clinicians with a summary of the current literature regarding abscess management in the emergency department. Discussion Ultrasound is valuable in diagnosing abscesses that are not clinically evident and in guiding I&D procedures. Although I&D is traditionally followed by packing, this practice may be unnecessary for small abscesses. Antibiotics, needle aspiration, and loop drainage are suitable alternatives to I&D of abscesses with certain characteristics. Oral antibiotics can improve outcomes after I&D, although this improvement must be weighed against potential risks. Many strategies are useful in managing Bartholin abscesses, with the Word catheter proving consistently effective. Needle aspiration is the recommended first-line therapy for small breast abscesses. Dental abscesses are often diagnosed with clinical examination alone, but ultrasound may be a useful adjunct. Acute abscess formation caused by hidradenitis suppurativa should be managed surgically by excision when possible, because I&D has a high rate of abscess recurrence. Peritonsillar abscesses can be diagnosed with either intraoral or transcervical ultrasound if clinical examination is inconclusive. Needle aspiration and I&D are both suitable for the management of peritonsillar abscesses. Pilonidal abscesses have traditionally been managed with I&D, but needle aspiration with antibiotics may be a suitable alternative. Conclusions This review evaluates the recent literature surrounding abscess management for emergency medicine clinicians.
RG limit cycles and unconventional fixed points in perturbative QFT

We study quantum field theories with sextic interactions in $3\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\epsilon}$ dimensions, where the scalar fields ${\ensuremath{\phi}}^{ab}$ form irreducible representations under the $O(N{)}^{2}$ or $O(N)$ global symmetry group. We calculate the beta functions up to four-loop order and find the renormalization group (RG) fixed points. In an example of large $N$ equivalence, the parent $O(N{)}^{2}$ theory and its antisymmetric projection exhibit identical large $N$ beta functions that possess real fixed points. However, for projection to the symmetric traceless representation of $O(N)$, the large $N$ equivalence is violated by the appearance of an additional double-trace operator not inherited from the parent theory. Among the large $N$ fixed points of this daughter theory we find complex conformal field theories. The symmetric traceless $O(N)$ model also exhibits very interesting phenomena when it is analytically continued to small noninteger values of $N$. Here we find unconventional fixed points, which we call ``spooky.'' They are located at real values of the coupling constants ${g}^{i}$, but two eigenvalues of the Jacobian matrix $\ensuremath{\partial}{\ensuremath{\beta}}^{i}/\ensuremath{\partial}{g}^{j}$ are complex. When these complex conjugate eigenvalues cross the imaginary axis, a Hopf bifurcation occurs, giving rise to RG limit cycles. This crossing occurs for ${N}_{\text{crit}}\ensuremath{\approx}4.475$, and for a small range of $N$ above this value we find RG flows that lead to limit cycles.
Determination of Singlet Oxygen Quantum Yield of a Porphyrinic Metal–Organic Framework

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as heterogeneous photosensitizers in applications ranging from photodynamic therapy to photocatalysis. However, singlet oxygen (1O2) quantum yields of M...
Discussion: Why do we test multiple traits in genetic association studies?

This is a short discussion of “Why do we test multiple traits in genetic association studies?” by Wensheng Zhu and Heping Zhang.
In-home vascular testing program during the COVID-19 pandemic

This is a retrospective review of a pilot program to provide in home vascular testing to patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Results: Eighty-four patients underwent a total of 105 vascular imaging tests as part of the program. Two patients required hospitalization secondary to imaging findings. A description of the program, the results of the testing and patient experience with in-home vascular testing is discussed.
Arbitrary Point Tracking with Machine Learning to Measure Cardiac Strains in Tagged MRI.

Cardiac tagged MR images allow for deformation fields to be measured in the heart by tracking the motion of tag lines throughout the cardiac cycle. Machine learning (ML) algorithms enable accurate and robust tracking of tag lines. Herein, the use of a massive synthetic physics-driven training dataset with known ground truth was used to train an ML network to enable tracking any number of points at arbitrary positions rather than anchored to the tag lines themselves. The tag tracking and strain calculation methods were investigated in a computational deforming cardiac phantom with known (ground truth) strain values. This enabled both tag tracking and strain accuracy to be characterized for a range of image acquisition and tag tracking parameters. The methods were also tested on in vivo volunteer data. Median tracking error was< 0.26 mm in the computational phantom, and strain measurements were improved in vivo when using the arbitrary point tracking for a standard clinical protocol.
An Examination of General Surgery Residency Programs with a Rural Track.

BACKGROUND There is a steady decline in the general surgery workforce in rural areas of the United States. In response, some surgery residency programs have developed rural tracks to encourage rural practice and adequately prepare trainees for this setting. OBJECTIVE To compare the practice type and location of graduates from general surgery residency programs with and without a dedicated rural track between 2011–2020. METHODS General surgery residency programs with and without a rural track were identified using the American Medical Association Residency and Fellowship Electronic Interactive Database and the Rural Surgery Program list from the American College of Surgeons. Graduates of these programs who entered general surgery practice between 2011–2020 were subsequently identified from individual residency program websites and tracked to their current practice setting using a Google search of first and last name and residency affiliation. Practice location was identified by zip code or county name and coded by Rural-Urban Continuum Codes (RUCC, Economic Research Service, USDA). RESULTS We identified 2,582 general surgery residency graduates from 2011 to 2020 across 66 residency programs. Of these graduates from programs without a rural track, 23.6% entered general surgery practice without additional fellowship training, compared to 34.0% from residency programs with a rural track (p = 0.019). Community or University-based program designation was not associated with decision to enter general surgery practice over fellowship training (p = 0.420). Proportion of graduates entering rural practice as defined by RUCC groups 7–9 was not associated with having a rural program track or with community or university-based program status. CONCLUSION Residency programs with a rural track produce a higher proportion of graduates entering general surgery compared to fellowship, though they are no more likely than programs without a rural track to produce graduates who ultimately practice in rural areas.
Semantic Combinatorial Processes in Argument Structure: Evidence from Light-Verbs

Any theory of how language is internally organized and how it interacts with other mental capacities must address the fundamental question of how syntactic and lexico-semantic information interact at one central linguistic compositional level, the sentence level. With this general objective in mind, we examine “light-verbs”, so called because the main thrust of the semantic relations of the predicate that they denote is found not in the predicate itself, but in the argument structure of the syntactic object that such a predicate licenses. For instance, in the sentence
A Confederation of Neural Circuits: Control of Swimmeret Movements by a Modular System of Pattern Generators

The motor pattern produced by swimmeret motor neurons in isolated ventral nerve cords of the crayfish, Pacifastacus leniusculus, is described quantitatively. The evidence is reviewed that each swimmeret has its own motor center, which produces the alternating power-stroke and return-stroke activity needed for rhythmic movements. The anatomy of the power-stroke and return-stroke pools of swimmeret motor neurons is described in terms of the architectonics of segmental ganglia. The responses of individual ganglia to command neurons and to their putative transmitters are reviewed. The ability of individual hemiganglionic centers to oscillate independently is described. Properties of the circuit of interneurons that coordinates these motor centers are discussed in terms of the integrated performance of the swimmeret system.
Stabilization Via Optimization

We study the problem of existence, and construction, of a continuous asymptotically stabilizing feedback control (ASFC) x → u(x) which makes the zero solution of the n-dimensional, real analytic, affine system $$\dot{x} = {{X}_{0}}(x) + u{{X}_{1}}(x), {{X}_{0}}(0) = 0, {{X}_{1}}(0) \ne 0$$ (1) locally asymptotically stable.
Skeletal Muscle Coenzyme A Transferase PURIFICATION AND PROPERTIES

The kinetic properties of a succinyl-CoA:3-oxo-acid-CoA transferase partially purified from bovine skeletal muscle were studied to provide a basis for assessing its physiological function. A number of metabolites were investigated as potential modifiers of the enzymatic activity with negative results. Kinetic results are consistent with preferred utilization of acetoacetate by the heart at low concentrations and an increased utilization by skeletal muscle during ketonemia.
Monte Carlo Evaluation of Hadron Masses

An improved Monte Carlo method is presented for lattice gauge theories with fermions. A variety of meson masses and decay constants are calculated on lattice up to 124 for gauge group Ῑ, the best discrete approximation to SU(2). Arguments are given to show these predictions would be changed little by replacing Ῑ with SU(2) or SU(3).