cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assessment of nutritional subsidies to freshwater mussels using a multiple natural abundance isotope approach

Summary Freshwater mussels are a particularly imperilled group of aquatic organisms. To date, there is limited understanding of their dietary and nutritional subsidies, including those from both autochthonous (aquatic) and allochthonous (terrestrial) sources. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relative contributions of potential nutritional resources to mussel biomass using a Bayesian mixing model (MixSIAR) for (i) bulk suspended versus benthic organic matter (OM) pools, (ii) general autochthonous versus allochthonous OM sources and (iii) specific individual OM sources. Nutritional subsidies of five species of freshwater mussels were assessed using natural abundance stable isotopes (δ13C, δ15N, δ2H) and natural radiocarbon (Δ14C). The ranges for each of the four isotopes were similar across all species and sampling dates, and mussel δ13C and δ15N values were similar to those measured in previous studies. Despite relatively low variability in this study, species and temporal differences in mussel δ15N, δ2H and Δ14C values were generally significant (P < 0.05). Based on δ13C values alone, bulk suspended OM subsidised mussel biomass to a greater extent than bulk benthic OM (c. 60 and 40% respectively). Modelling of multiple isotopes indicated that while the collective allochthonous nutritional sources accounted for a significant part (c. 33%) of mussel biomass, autochthonous materials collectively subsidised mussel tissue at about twice this level (c. 67). Significant amounts of 14C-depleted aged carbon were incorporated into freshwater mussel tissue (mean equivalent 14C age = 1325 ± 68 years BP). Potential nutritional sources were also mostly aged, including benthic algae (1226 ± 556 years BP), zooplankton (1682 years BP), terrestrial soil (10 588 ± 4330 years BP) and suspended particulate OM (1443 ± 57 years BP). No single potential individual nutritional OM source explained the multiple isotopic values of freshwater mussel tissue, indicating that these organisms have a multi-source and potentially opportunistic diet. Benthic algae and phytoplankton were quantitatively the most important individual OM subsidies to freshwater mussel nutrition at our study site (27 and 19% respectively). Observed seasonal shifts in freshwater mussel isotopic values were minimal, suggesting (i) that mussels may not be seasonally limited by individual nutritional resources and/or (ii) the replacement times of C, N and H in freshwater mussel tissues make detection of temporal nutritional subsidy shifts – if they occur – difficult to discern.
Single-photon atomic cooling

We propose a new method of cooling and phase space compression that requires each atom to scatter only one photon. We consider the specific example of rubidium-87 atoms confined to a magnetic trap and provide realistic estimates. Beyond a demonstration in atomic rubidium, this method could enable cooling of atoms and molecules that do not have cycling transitions.
The Origins of Dominant Parties: Building Authoritarian Institutions in Post-Soviet Russia

In many autocracies, regime leaders share power with a ruling party, which can help generate popular support and reduce conflict among key elites. Such ruling parties are often called dominant parties. In other regimes, leaders prefer to rule solely through some combination of charisma, patronage, and coercion, rather than sharing power with a dominant party. This book explains why dominant parties emerge in some nondemocratic regimes, but not in others. It offers a novel theory of dominant party emergence that centers on the balance of power between rulers and other elites. Drawing on extensive fieldwork in Russia, original data on Russian political elites, and cross-national statistical analysis, the book's findings shed new light on how modern autocracies work and why they break down. The book also provides new insights about the foundations of Vladimir Putin's regime and challenges several myths about the personalization of power under Putin.
The Differential Effectiveness of Social Reinforcement with Children in Laboratory and Natural Settings: A Conditioned Reinforcement Analysis

The effectiveness of social consequences as positive reinforcers for children in natural settings and their weaknesses as such in laboratory settings are described, and an argument based on the methodology of conditioned reinforcement research is developed to account for this discrepancy. Parallels are drawn between (a) the different methods for establishing (training) and assessing (testing) conditioned reinforcers and (b) the different contexts in which social reinforcers are established and delivered. First, neither conditioned nor social reinforcers are very effective when delivered in isolation (extinction) from the conditions in which they presumably acquire their function—the training conditions of conditioned reinforcers or the natural environment of social reinforcers. Second, the more complex scheduling methods used in recent conditioned reinforcement research are analogous to the complex conditions under which social reinforcers are delivered in the natural environment; in these cases, the stimuli are substantially more effective as reinforcers. By taking into account the context in which social reinforcers are delivered, a basis is provided for explaining their differential effectiveness.
Abstract 214: Cbl Inhibition Improves Cardiac Function and Survival in Response to Myocardial Ischemia

Introduction and Hypothesis: Proteasome degradation of ubiquitin-targeted proteins plays an important role in the development of cardiomyopathy and heart failure. The mechanisms that control proteasome function and protein ubiquitination and turnover remain poorly defined. The proto-oncogene Casitas b-lineage lymphoma (Cbl) is an adaptor protein with an intrinsic E3 ubiquitin ligase activity that targets tyrosine kinases, resulting in their ubiquitination and down-regulation. Although Cbl is a crucial signaling molecule in many cells, the role of Cbl in the heart is unknown. Methods and Results: We show increased Cbl expression in human failing hearts and in response to pathological stress stimuli in mice. Cbl deficient mice demonstrated a more robust functional recovery after ischemia reperfusion injury, as well as significantly reduced myocyte apoptosis and epidermal growth factor receptor and focal adhesion (FA) protein ubiquitination and downregulation. Cbl Knockdown in-vitro protected cardiomyocytes against H2O2-induced apoptosis. Cbl deficient mice also show greater functional recovery after myocardial ischemia. This cardioprotective effect of Cbl deletion can be attributed, at least in part, to enhanced neoangiogenesis in the infarcted region via upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor-a. Conclusions: Cbl activation regulates myocyte apoptosis and angiogenesis and contributes to adverse cardiac remodeling post-MI. These findings point to Cbl as a potential therapeutic target for the maintenance of cardiac function and remodeling post-MI.
The Atom as a Source of Light

We have noted that according to Maxwell’s theory of electromagnetism, light is nothing but a visible electromagnetic (EM) wave that has a frequency in the narrow range ∼ 4 ×1014 Hz to ∼ 7 ×1014 Hz. The corresponding range of wavelengths is 4,000–7,000 { A}. Furthermore, EM waves are produced and emitted by accelerating electric charge. There are two interesting questions that immediately confront us: (1) We accept the premise that animal eyes evolved so as to be sensitive to sunlight. Still, what characteristics of animal eyes makes them sensitive to this particular narrow range of frequencies? (2) What are the physical characteristics of the sun that causes sunlight to be concentrated in a particular range of frequencies?
Effect of gravity on subject-specific human lung deformation

A biomechanical model of human lung is developed and used to investigate the effect of gravity on lung deformation. The lung is assumed to behave as a poro-elastic medium with spatially dependent elastic property. Finite element analysis is performed on a three-dimensional (3D) lung geometry reconstructed from a four-dimensional Computed Tomography (4DCT) scan dataset of human patient. The spatially dependent Young’s modulus (YM) values are estimated using inverse analysis from a linear elastic deformation model. The predicted deformation of selected landmarks is monitored with and without gravity, and compared with data obtained from 4DCT registration. The results show that gravity indeed significantly affects the magnitude and distribution of lung deformation with the maximum displacement enhanced by 54% in the direction of gravity, for the conditions investigated. In summary, the accuracy of predicted deformation is improved through incorporation of gravity in the biomechanical model of lung.
A Cesium Rare-Earth Silicate Cs 3 RESi 6 O 15 (RE=Dy-Lu, Y, In): The Parent of an Unusual Structural Class Featuring a Remarkable 57 Å Unit Cell Axis

The structure of Cs3 RESi6 O15 , where RE=Dy-Lu, Y, In, is unusual in that it contains octahedrally coordinated rare-earth ions; their relative orientation dictates the structure, as they rotate about the c-axis supported by the cyclic Si6 O15 framework. The repeat unit of the rotation is eight units generating a very long (ca. 57 A) unit cell axis. This unusual repeat unit is created by the structural flexibility of the hexasilicate ring, which is in turn affected by the size of the rare earth ion as well as the size of alkali ion residing within the silicate layers. Previous work showed for the smaller Sc3+ ion, the rotation of the octahedra is not sufficient to achieve closure at an integral repeat unit and an incommensurate structure results. The products are prepared as large, high quality single crystals using a high-temperature (650 °C) hydrothermal method with CsOH and F- mineralizers. The presence of fluoride is essential to the formation of the product.
Understanding the Complex Relationship between Critical Thinking and Science Reasoning among Undergraduate Thesis Writers

Developing critical-thinking and scientific reasoning skills are core learning objectives of science education, but little empirical evidence exists regarding the interrelationships between these constructs. Writing effectively fosters students' development of these constructs, and it offers a unique window into studying how they relate. In this study of undergraduate thesis writing in biology at two universities, we examine how scientific reasoning exhibited in writing (assessed using the Biology Thesis Assessment Protocol) relates to general and specific critical-thinking skills (assessed using the California Critical Thinking Skills Test), and we consider implications for instruction. We find that scientific reasoning in writing is strongly related to inference, while other aspects of science reasoning that emerge in writing (epistemological considerations, writing conventions, etc.) are not significantly related to critical-thinking skills. Science reasoning in writing is not merely a proxy for critical thinking. In linking features of students' writing to their critical-thinking skills, this study 1) provides a bridge to prior work suggesting that engagement in science writing enhances critical thinking and 2) serves as a foundational step for subsequently determining whether instruction focused explicitly on developing critical-thinking skills (particularly inference) can actually improve students' scientific reasoning in their writing.
Use of rhGM-CSF in Bone Marrow Failure

Radiation accidents resulting in significant injury are, fortunately, uncommon. However, one of the primary manifestations of radiation injury is bone marrow suppression. Depending on the dose of radiation and the manner in which it is received, hematologic effects can be acute and severe or chronic and delayed. The manifestations include aplastic anemia as well as increased risk of leukemia.
Structure, orientation, and dynamics of water-soluble ions adsorbed to basal surfaces of calcium monosulfoaluminate hydrates

Transport of water molecules and chloride ions in nanopores of hydrated cement paste (HCP) is proven to adversely affect the long-term durability of reinforced concrete structures exposed to seawater or deicing salts. The resistance against chloride attack is primarily associated with the chloride binding capacity of the main HCP constituents. Experimental tests revealed that AFm phases of HCP play a central role in binding the chloride ions. However, many aspects of AFm–solution interactions were largely unknown, especially at their interfaces. This was the motivation of the current study, in which the atomistic processes underlying the transport of water-soluble ions are investigated in detail using the classical molecular dynamics (MD) method. To this end, an aqueous layer containing various concentrations of sodium chloride solution is sandwiched between two basal surfaces of calcium monosulfoaluminate hydrate, which is the most abundant phase of AFm. The adsorption mechanisms of water molecules and diffusing ions are then characterized for inner- and outer-sphere distance ranges from the basal surfaces of monosulfoaluminate. It is found that the self-diffusion coefficient of the chloride and sodium ions present in the outer-sphere range are 83% and 47% larger than those residing in the inner-sphere range. With increasing the distance from the solid surface, an increase in the self-diffusion coefficient is captured. This increase in mobility is larger for chloride ions than sodium ions. This can be understood based on the observation that the inner- and outer-sphere complex formation are the governing adsorption mechanisms for the chloride and sodium ions, respectively.
Superheavy dark matter and ANITA's anomalous events

The ANITA experiment, which is designed to detect ultrahigh-energy neutrinos, has reported the observation of two anomalous events, directed at angles of 27\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} and 35\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} with respect to the horizontal. At these angles, the Earth is expected to efficiently absorb ultrahigh-energy neutrinos, making the origin of these events unclear and motivating explanations involving physics beyond the Standard Model. In this study, we consider the possibility that ANITA's anomalous events are the result of Askaryan emission produced by exotic weakly interacting particles scattering elastically with nuclei in the Antarctic ice sheet. Such particles could be produced by superheavy (approximately ${10}^{10}--{10}^{13}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{GeV}$) dark matter particles decaying in the halo of the Milky Way. Such scenarios can be constrained by existing measurements of the high-latitude gamma-ray background and the ultrahigh-energy cosmic-ray spectrum, along with searches for ultrahigh-energy neutrinos by IceCube and other neutrino telescopes.
Development of a Novel 3D Printed Phantom for Teaching Neurosurgical Trainees the Freehand Technique of C2 Laminar Screw Placement

Background 3D printed models have grown in popularity for resident training. Currently there is a paucity of simulators specifically designed for advanced cervical instrumentation. Our institution created a unique simulator for the instruction of freehand placement of C2 laminar screws using a specific 3-dimensional printing technique to replicate the corticocancellous interface. This study was designed to determine the efficacy of the simulator for teaching neurosurgical residents the freehand technique of C2 laminar screw placement. Methods Ten participants with different experience levels participated in the study. The participants were separated into 2 groups based on experience level. Primary outcome assessments were breach rates, screw–screw interaction, and the ability to successfully place 2 screws in 1 model. Participants were graded based on a performance scoring system, and the outcomes of the 2 groups were compared. Results All participants in the novice group showed improved technical ability on repeated use of the simulator and were able to successfully place bilateral screws by the fourth attempt. Statistical analysis indicated an association between operative experience level and successful bilateral screw placement, implying that the simulator accurately represented an in vivo intraoperative scenario. Conclusions By utilizing our novel 3D printing production method, we have created a unique simulator for the freehand placement of C2 laminar screws. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a study investigating the use of a 3-dimensional printed simulator specifically designed to teach the freehand placement of C2 laminar screws to neurosurgical trainees.
Spectrum-Agile Cognitive Interference Avoidance Through Deep Reinforcement Learning

This work introduces a spectrum-agile wideband autonomous cognitive radio (WACR) that is capable of avoiding interference and jamming signals. Proposed cognitive technique is based on deep reinforcement learning (DRL) that uses a double deep Q-network (DDQN). Moreover, it introduces new definitions for the state and the operation parameters that enable the WACR to collect information about the RF spectrum of interest in both time and frequency domains. The simulation results show that the proposed technique can efficiently learn an effective strategy to avoid harmful signals in a wideband partially observable environment. Furthermore, the experiments on an over-the-air channel inside a laboratory show that the proposed algorithm can rapidly adapt to sudden changes in the surrounding RF environment making it suitable for real-time applications.
Evaluation and upgrading web-gap distortion retrofits in steel girder bridges

Distortion-induced fatigue cracking in the unstiffened web-gap of cross-frame diaphragms is the most prevalent type of cracking in steel girder bridges. Multi-steel girder bridges experience differential deflection between adjacent girders when subject to vertical loads resulting in a driving force in cross-frame diaphragms. The driving force developed in the cross-frame legs leads to out-of-plane distortion of the web-gap which results in high stress concentrations at the area, following by fatigue damages. This paper introduces an innovative method to retrofit web-gap distortion cracking, upgrade existing retrofits, and compare its effectiveness with two common retrofit techniques. The method involves cutting the existing connection plate and using angles to attach the disconnected part of the connection plate to the web. The method intends to eliminate the local high stresses at the connection plate end with considering minimal interference in original connection design and load path. Also, two other conventional repair methods were investigated, slot method and top-angle measure, to use as a basis for comparing the methods effectiveness. Laboratory testing was performed on a small-scale steel bridge bay by applying a vertical displacement to the free end of a cross-frame diaphragm to simulate the differential deflection between two adjacent girders in real bridges. The results from the testing were compared to findings from finite element analyses (FEA). Test results as well as FEA results for all investigated retrofit techniques are presented herein. Results showed that the newly developed slot-angle technique has significant potential for effectively reducing the stress concentrations in the web-gap region by removing the location of initial stress concentrations and redistributing those stresses over a wider area.
An assessment of the online presentation of MIS fellowship information for residents

Residents often utilize internet resources to evaluate and search for fellowship programs within their desired field. The presence of these resources and the information available through them has the potential to influence applicant decisions. The objective of this study was to analyze the online MIS fellowship information relevant to resident applicants provided by the Fellowship Council Directory (FCD) and institutionally based program webpages. The programs evaluated were chosen based on their inclusion in the FCD, the accrediting body for MIS fellowships. The FCD provides each program a template through which program directors detail information for applicants. This information is publicly accessible through the directory, with each program having a specific page. These webpages were assessed for the presence or absence of 21 previously established individual content criteria. In addition, the presence or absence of a functional link to an institutionally based, program-specific webpage was determined. These program-specific, institutional webpages were then independently accessed via Google® search and separately assessed for the presence or absence of the same 21 previously established content criteria. In total, the FCD listed 144 programs. Each program had a dedicated page within the directory itself with 104 (72%) having functional links listed. Ninety-six (66.6%) of the FCD links were identified as being specific webpages to the fellowship program, verified through a Google® search. Less than half of the programs fulfilled over 50% of identified criteria through the FCD templated directory, with one-third of programs listed failing to provide any program-specific information via a webpage outside the FCD. Information available online for MIS fellowship programs is lacking, with many institutionally supported webpages absent altogether outside of the FCD. Templated formats seem to assist in this deficiency, but should be used cautiously as they also can potentially omit relevant information.
Putting Evidence Academies into action: Prostate cancer, nutrition, and tobacco control science

A well-documented challenge in moving public health research into practice is the extended time it takes to implement findings in clinical practice and communities. The Evidence Academy model (Rohweder et al., 2016), developed and first used in North Carolina, is a pragmatic, action-oriented model that aims to shorten this timeline by communicating cutting-edge findings directly to those who can use them and convening individuals working in a single topic area to network and plan activities for the future. The University of Pennsylvania Collaborating Center of the Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network (CPCRN) held three conferences based on the Evidence Academy model: one about prostate cancer in 2015, a second on food access and obesity prevention in 2017, and a third about tobacco control science in 2018. A diverse planning committee of stakeholders helped shape the content, focus,and format of each conference. Local and national experts presented findings to regional audiences of researchers, practitioners, government leaders, and community members. Each Evidence Academy included collaborators and speakers from other Prevention Research Centers (PRCs) and CPCRN network sites. Evaluations and outcomes indicated that the events were successful in achieving their goals and fostered ongoing relationships among attendees. This paper illustrates how the Evidence Academy model was used in a different region and describes lessons learned and follow-up activities that were initiated via the Evidence Academy and with input from participants. Lessons learned may be helpful in developing and evaluating future adaptations of the Evidence Academy model and/or the effectiveness of its components.
Modeling Americans’ autonomous vehicle preferences: A focus on dynamic ride-sharing, privacy & long-distance mode choices

Abstract Rapid advances in technologies have accelerated the timeline for public use of fully-automated and communications-connected vehicles. Public opinion on self-driving vehicles or AVs is evolving rapidly, and many behavioral questions have not yet been addressed. This study emphasizes AV mode choices, including Americans’ willingness to pay (WTP) to ride with a stranger in a shared AV fleet vehicle on various trip types and the long-distance travel impacts of AVs. Exactly 2,588 complete responses to a stated-preference survey with 70 questions provide valuable insights on privacy concerns, safety and dynamic ride-sharing with strangers, long-distance travel and preferences for smarter vehicles and transport systems. Two hurdle models (which allow for a high share of zero-value responses) were estimated: one to predict WTP to share a ride and another to determine WTP to anonymize location while using AVs, and a multinomial logit was developed to estimate long-distance mode choices with AVs and SAVs available. Results suggest that WTP to share rides will rise over time, for a variety of reasons, and SAV use will be particularly popular for long-distance business travel. Elasticity estimates suggest that privacy may not be an important concern for AV-based travel.
Regulation of Na+/H+ antiport in the intact renal proximal tubular cell.

The kinetic properties of the Na+/H+ antiporter, present in the brush border membrane of the renal proximal tubule, have been delineated in a series of studies on isolated brush border membrane vesicles (1,2). In order to determine the factors which regulate this transport system using this approach, the system has had to be perturbed either in vivo or in vitro prior to fragmenting the cell for preparation of isolated vesicles. Whether disruption of the cell alters the apparent response to exogenous stimuli; e.g. hormones, neurogenic influences, etc., is not clear.
Dexterity, Sensitivity and Versatility: An Under Actuated Robotic Hand with Mechanical Intelligence and Proprioceptive Actuation

A three-finger under actuated robotic hand with dexterous force control and inherent compliance is developed and tested. A simplified biomimetic finger design is generated and applied with mechanic...
A Multiorganizational Cooperation Framework for Neighborhood Disaster Resilience

Climate change and growth in coastal population make many American communities increasingly vulnerable to coastal disasters such as hurricanes, winter storms, and tsunamis. This research argues tha...
Refugee Scholars and Vietnamese Studies in the United States, 1975–1982

(1984). Refugee Scholars and Vietnamese Studies in the United States, 1975–1982. Amerasia Journal: Vol. 11, No. 1, pp. 89-99.
Significant Impact of the Ketogenic Diet on Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels.

It is well known, based on the previous research, that a ketogenic diet leads to an improvement in the lipid profile and decreases cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension. However, recent studies have also reported increased levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) as a result of this diet. It has been postulated that this elevation in LDL-C would not likely increase cardiovascular complications due to the large LDL-C particle size. In this case report, we present a case of a rapid increase, followed by a rapid correction of LDL-C, in a patient following a ketogenic diet. A 56-year-old Hispanic female with a past medical history of hypertension and fibromyalgia presented to the outpatient clinic for evaluation of fatigue. She reported that she had been following a strict ketogenic diet along with daily regular exercise for approximately 30-40 days prior to this visit. Her diet consisted of low-carbohydrate vegetables, seafood, avocados, eggs, and coconut oil. The patient's physical exam was unremarkable. At the time of the visit, her BMI was calculated at 28 kg/m2, with a weight loss of approximately six to seven pounds since starting the ketogenic diet. Her fasting lipid profile showed a total cholesterol of 283 mg/dl, LDL-C of 199 mg/dl, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) of 59 mg/dl, and triglycerides levels of 124 mg/dl. She was instructed to stop the ketogenic diet and to incorporate a balanced diet, which includes a higher amount of carbohydrates and lower fat. She was also started on high-intensity atorvastatin. However, she reported experiencing myalgias soon after initiating atorvastatin; therefore, the medication was switched to rosuvastatin 10 mg at bedtime. During her follow-up appointment, she reported not having consistently taken rosuvastatin due to the concern of worsening myalgias. Her lipid profile, after four weeks of ketogenic diet discontinuation and inconsistent use of statins, showed significant improvement resulting in a total cholesterol level of 190 mg/dl and LDL-C of 106 mg/dl. Statin therapy was discontinued, and the patient maintained optimal LDL-C levels on subsequent testing. This patient showed a rapid increase in LDL-C and total cholesterol after only 30-40 days of the ketogenic diet. Her drastic elevation in LDL-C could also be explained due to the rapid weight loss, as cholesterol in the adipose tissue is known to mobilize as the fat cells shrink. Interestingly, her BMI four weeks after the discontinuation of the ketogenic diet did not change despite a marked improvement in her LDL-C. Therefore, we believe the acute onset and resolution of hyperlipidemia was secondary to the ketogenic diet itself. This study helps to better understand expectations when recommending a ketogenic diet to patients and its consequences. There is currently no statistically significant study that proves this elevation of LDL-C would not increase cardiovascular risks. Furthermore, the necessity for statin therapy in a ketogenic diet-induced hyperlipidemia remains unknown.
Successful treatment with Remdesivir and corticosteroids in a patient with COVID-19-associated pneumonia: A case report

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has rapidly spread throughout the world causing significant mortality in high risk patients with severe manifestations. To date, Remdesivir has been the only antiviral authorized by FDA as therapy for emergency use. One of the potential complications of this infection is cytokine storm, which optimal treatment remains unknown. We present the case of a 48-year-old man with no past medical history who presented to the hospital with dyspnea, cough, subjective fever, and diarrhea for 10 days. Nasopharyngeal PCR was positive for SARS-CoV-2. His respiratory status rapidly worsened to the point of requiring supplemental oxygen by high flow nasal cannula with FiO2 of 80%. Chest computed tomography showed confluent ground glass opacities in upper lobes accompanied by patchy airspace opacities in lower lobes bilaterally. He was started on hydroxychloroquine, which was switched to Remdesivir when it became available. Then, methylprednisolone was initiated for suspected cytokine storm. The patients oxygenation improved significantly over the following days and he was discharged home with no oxygen supplementation and saturating 96% on room air. Our case illustrates the role of Remdesivir for the treatment of severe COVID-19 pneumonia. We also observed a possible clinical benefit of corticosteroids in the context of suspected cytokine storm. Further studies are needed to evaluate this therapeutic strategy.
The Organization for Tropical Studies: History, accomplishments, future directions in education and research, with an emphasis in the contributions to the study of plant reproductive ecology and genetics in tropical ecosystems

Abstract The Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS) has played a pivotal role in our understanding of tropical ecosystems' structure and function. For more than fifty years, OTS has contributed to the training of three generations of tropical biologists and facilitated, supported, and promoted leading-edge research in its field stations. Plant reproductive ecology and genetics have been a significant focus of OTS research since the early 1960s, and Dr. K.S. Bawa made a significant contribution to the advancement of this field. His work improved our understanding of the diversity and evolution of breeding systems in tropical forests, their phenology and pollination ecology, and their mating and genetic structure. We argue that his work inspired other tropical biologists' work and used the work of one of the authors for illustration when appropriate. We point out the need for research in critically important topics to slow down biodiversity loss, prevent the collapse of tropical systems in a changing climate, and the emergence of zoonotic disease. We suggest future research topics for the OTS field stations, including in plant reproductive biology.
Dolor y rabia: The passionate politics of women’s activism in Vieques, Puerto Rico

Based on ethnography conducted during the height of anti-military struggle in Vieques, Puerto Rico, in the early 2000s, this article examines Viequense women’s intense forms of suffering and correspondingly powerful forms of collective action. It explores how the affective dimensions of Vieques women’s dolor (suffering) and rabia (indignation) became catalysts for their politicization. The article posits that the gendered and intersubjective experience of confronting illness in a physical landscape devasted by military pollution can impel women to pose new questions and ideas regarding disease etiology. This questioning, in turn, has the potential to rearticulate their identities in political terms. At the intersections of political ecology, medical anthropology, and environmental justice, this article concludes that in confronting the ubiquity of dolor y rabia in their own and their families’ bodies, Viequense women found the strength to fight back against the most powerful military in the world.
The association between experiencing police arrest and suicide ideation among emerging young adults: Does race matter?

The objective of the study was to examine the association between lifetime arrest and marijuana-related first arrest with past-year suicide ideation among Black and White people. We used data from ...
Gene Expression Meta-Analysis Reveals Interferon-Induced Genes Associated With SARS Infection in Lungs.

Background: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) corona virus (CoV) infections are a serious public health threat because of their pandemic-causing potential. This work is the first to analyze mRNA expression data from SARS infections through meta-analysis of gene signatures, possibly identifying therapeutic targets associated with major SARS infections. Methods: This work defines 37 gene signatures representing SARS-CoV, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)-CoV, and SARS-CoV2 infections in human lung cultures and/or mouse lung cultures or samples and compares them through Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). To do this, positive and negative infectious clone SARS (icSARS) gene panels are defined from GSEA-identified leading-edge genes between two icSARS-CoV derived signatures, both from human cultures. GSEA then is used to assess enrichment and identify leading-edge icSARS panel genes between icSARS gene panels and 27 other SARS-CoV gene signatures. The meta-analysis is expanded to include five MERS-CoV and three SARS-CoV2 gene signatures. Genes associated with SARS infection are predicted by examining the intersecting membership of GSEA-identified leading-edges across gene signatures. Results: Significant enrichment (GSEA p<0.001) is observed between two icSARS-CoV derived signatures, and those leading-edge genes defined the positive (233 genes) and negative (114 genes) icSARS panels. Non-random significant enrichment (null distribution p<0.001) is observed between icSARS panels and all verification icSARSvsmock signatures derived from human cultures, from which 51 over- and 22 under-expressed genes are shared across leading-edges with 10 over-expressed genes already associated with icSARS infection. For the icSARSvsmock mouse signature, significant, non-random significant enrichment held for only the positive icSARS panel, from which nine genes are shared with icSARS infection in human cultures. Considering other SARS strains, significant, non-random enrichment (p<0.05) is observed across signatures derived from other SARS strains for the positive icSARS panel. Five positive icSARS panel genes, CXCL10, OAS3, OASL, IFIT3, and XAF1, are found across mice and human signatures regardless of SARS strains. Conclusion: The GSEA-based meta-analysis approach used here identifies genes with and without reported associations with SARS-CoV infections, highlighting this approach’s predictability and usefulness in identifying genes that have potential as therapeutic targets to preclude or overcome SARS infections.
PIC profiles for learning-disabled and behavior-disordered children.

Compared the performance of learning-disabled and behavior-disordered children (N = 60) on the recently published Personality Inventory of Children (PIC) to investigate the discriminant validity of the instrument. The data were analyzed by profile analysis and stepwise discriminant analysis. Results showed that learning-disabled and behavior-disordered children could be differentiated clearly on subtests that comprise the Cognitive Development and Conduct Disorder factors. However, less differentiation was found on the Internalization factor. Further examination indicated a possible diagnosis X scale "interaction" within the Internalization factor. Those learning-disabled children who also experienced "internal" difficulties tended to score high on the Somatic Concern Scale, while behavior-disordered children typically scored high on the other Internalization scales (i.e., Anxiety, Withdrawal, etc.). A total of seven of the PIC clinical and validity scales were selected in the discriminant function that separated the two groups.
The academic research-teaching nexus in eight advanced-industrialized countries

The purpose of this study is to examine the internationalcomplexities of the research-teaching nexus in higher educationalinstitutions. The Carnegie International Survey of the Academic Professionis employed to compare teaching and research activities in eight countries.These countries include the former West Germany, United Kingdom, Sweden, TheUnited States, Australia, Israel, Japan, and South Korea. Findings revealthat teaching and research are not mutually exclusive activities in thework/life of faculty. Research oriented faculty are more likely to viewtheir research commitments as being competitive with teaching. Research isfound to positively affect teaching, but attributes of teaching (e.g.,course load, student demand, etc.) negatively impact research. In addition,the paper finds academic orientation and the number of articles publishedduring the past three years to be the most important factors in determiningthe number of weekly hours spent on research and teaching activities.
Lattice Field Theory: past, present and future.

This letter is in response to a recent review by DeTar and Gottlieb about lattice QCD that has recently appeared in Physics Today. It also is partially motivated by a separate review written by DeGrand. My basic point is that one should be more responsible when presenting numerical results as coming from ab initio calculations. In turn, this leads me to the suggestion that in lattice field theory one should go back to computational support going directly to small groups, including groups containing only a single researcher, rather than concentrating most of the funds into the hands of few large collaborations. DeTar and Gottlieb’s article [1] misleads readers from outside lattice field theory about its past, present and future. At best, it may present a consensus in the collaboration the authors are part of, known as MILC. The terms “lattice field theory (LFT)”, “lattice gauge theory (LGT)” and “lattice QCD (LQCD)” are often used interchangeably. I shall follow this practice; the more accurate term will be clear from the context. Also, I have not put in references to any papers except the ones I quote from verbatim. After an overview of the history of LFT the authors of [1] state that “the most important theoretical advance in recent years” was that of “improvement”. I disagree with this qualification. In their historical overview the authors miss too many of the field’s truly remarkable achievements. The description below briefly mentions some of these achievements and is intended to show that “improvement” does not measure up. The renormalization group (RG), a conceptual organizing principle of all field theories, has been first concretely formulated in LFT. Nowadays we have beautiful examples of intricate flow patterns between different fixed points of continuum field theories showing that these concepts actually work to full extent. As a concrete example of the value of numerical LFT let me mention one nongauge result of relevance to particle physics: triviality is indeed a property of scalar field theories and implies a non-perturbative bound on the Higgs mass of the order of 700 GeV . Another conceptual idea which started its life in LFT is the concept of duality. Two dual field theories typically have different fields, different symmetries, but, if the coupling in one theory is set to the inverse
Dynamic programming guided exploration for sampling-based motion planning algorithms

Several sampling-based algorithms have been recently proposed that ensure asymptotic optimality. The convergence of these algorithms can be improved if sampling is guided toward the most promising region of the search space where the solution is more likely to be found. In this paper we propose three sample rejection methods that leverage the classification of the samples according to their potential of being part of the optimal solution to guide the exploration of the motion planner to promising regions of the search space. These sampling strategies are a direct by-product of the exploitation phase of the algorithm, which uses a dynamic programming (DP) step while planning on random graphs as, for example, is done in the RRT# algorithm. It is shown that the proposed sampling strategies are able to compute high-quality solutions, much faster than existing algorithms. We provide numerical results and compare the performance of the proposed algorithm with the original RRT# and the RRT* algorithms.
Excimer laser ablation of ferrite ceramics

We study the ablation of Ni-Zn or Mn-7n ferrites by 248-nm KrF excimer laser irradiation for high-resolution patterning. A transfer lens system is used to project the image of a mask irradiated by the pulsed KrF laser onto the ferrite sample. The threshold fluente for ablation of the ferrite surface is about 0.3 J/cm2. A typical fluente of 1 J/cm2 is used to produce good-quality patterning. Scanning electron microscopy of the ablated area shows a "glassy" skin with extensive microcracks and solidified droplets being ejected that is frozen in action. This skin can be removed by ultrasonic cleaning.
Neutral kaon mixing parameter BK from unquenched mixed-action lattice QCD

We calculate the neutral kaon mixing parameter B_K in unquenched lattice QCD using asqtad-improved staggered sea quarks and domain-wall valence quarks. We use the "2+1" flavor gauge configurations generated by the MILC Collaboration, and simulate with multiple valence and sea quark masses at two lattice spacings of a ~ 0.12 fm and a ~ 0.09 fm. We match the lattice determination of B_K to the continuum value using the nonperturbative method of Rome-Southampton, and extrapolate B_K to the continuum and physical quark masses using mixed action chiral perturbation theory. The "mixed-action" method enables us to control all sources of systematic uncertainty and therefore to precisely determine B_K; we find a value of B_K^{MSbar, NDR}(2 GeV) = 0.527(6)(20), where the first error is statistical and the second is systematic.
Relationship between Gross Weights and Horsepowers of Commercial Vehicles Operating on Public Highways

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE GROSS WEIGHT AND NET ENGINE HORSEPOWER OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLES IS INVESTIGATED. THE DATA WERE USED TO UPDATE CURRENT INFORMATION ON WEIGHT-POWER RATIOS OF TRUCKS AND INVESTIGATE THE TREND IN THE RATIOS SINCE 1949. THERE IS A DEFINITE INCREASE IN THE WEIGHT-POWER RATIO AS THE NUMBER OF AXLES INCREASE, REGARDLESS OF VEHICLE TYPE. THERE IS AN OVERALL TREND TO LOWER WEIGHT-POWER RATIOS AS EVIDENCED BY A 12 PERCENT REDUCTION IN THE RATIO FROM 1949 TO 1955 AND A FURTHER REDUCTION OF 28 PERCENT FROM 1955 TO 1963. A PERFORMANCE REQUIRMENT OF 400 LB/NHP IS LIBERAL AND WOULD AFFECT ONLY A SMALL PERCENTAGE OF THE TOTAL TRUCKS
Age-Related Dysregulation of CD8+ T Cell Memory Specific for a Persistent Virus Is Independent of Viral Replication

The immune system devotes substantial resources to the lifelong control of persistent pathogens, which were hypothesized to play an important role in immune aging. Specifically, the presence of latent herpesviruses has been correlated with immune exhaustion and shorter lifespan in octogenarians. But neither the causality nor the mechanistic link(s) were established, and the relative roles of persistent antigenic stimulation and of virus-independent homeostatic disturbances in T cell aging remain unresolved. We longitudinally analyzed expansion, contraction, and long-term maintenance of CD8(+) T cells responding to localized infection with a latent virus, HSV-1. Young mice exhibited the expected expansion and contraction of HSV-1-specific cells and the stable maintenance of memory T cells into advanced adulthood. However, upon entry into senescence, many (>40%) animals exhibited an accumulation in Ag-specific cells (memory inflation) which in some animals was comparable to that observed in acute infection. Inflation occurred to the same extent in control mice and mice continuously treated with the anti-HSV drug famciclovir, which inhibits viral replication and was able to reduce expression of the glycoprotein B. Age-related inflation was also found long after infection with an acute virus. The inflating cells largely maintained Ag-specific function, and exhibited typical central memory phenotype, with no signs of Ag-specific activation. They exhibited increased expression of CD122 and CD127, akin to the Ag-independent T cell clonal expansions found in old specific pathogen-free laboratory mice. This collectively suggests that, in this model, the inflating cells may be selected for high responsiveness to environmental cytokines largely in an Ag-independent manner.
Intra‐Arterial Platelet Infusion for Intractable Hemorrhage and Refractory

Acute gastrointestinal graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) refractory to first-line treatment with systemic corticosteroids results in increased morbidity and potential mortality. We retrospectively assessed the feasibility and efficacy of catheter-directed intra-arterial platelet infusion (IAPI) in two pediatric patients with steroid and transfusion refractory gastrointestinal GVHD causing intractable lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage and refractory thrombocytopenia, that were referred for salvage therapy. Immediate angiographic response was noted with a resolution of hemorrhage and decreased blood requirements. We reviewed the literature regarding this treatment modality and compared it to the available minimally invasive transcatheter techniques to control gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Madrigueras de piel y de casa: Cuerpos, sujetos y territorios políticos en Chile

This paper discusses biopolitics, production and reproduction of the labor force, based on the interpretation of interviews carried out during 2010 with agribusiness workers, the majority of whom were women of the VI and VII regions in Chile. Beyond a diagnose of the deployment of domination technologies tatooing the bodies and subjectivities involved in food production, both industrial and domestic, we foreground sexual and gender protagonisms in the profound social, economic and political transformations implied by market economies. Chile is a country where the State was fundamentally reduced to “politics of death” during the Pinochet Dictatorship, and selectively so during the Post Dictatorial period.