cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lunar shape does not record a past eccentric orbit

Abstract The Moon has long been known to have an overall shape not consistent with expected past tidal forces. It has recently been suggested (Garrick-Bethell, I., Wisdom, J., Zuber, M.T. [2006]. Science 313, 652–655) that the present lunar moments of inertia indicate a past high-eccentricity orbit and, possibly, a past non-synchronous spin–orbit resonance. Here I show that the match between the lunar shape and the proposed orbital and spin states is much less conclusive than initially proposed. Garrick-Bethell et al. (Garrick-Bethell, I., Wisdom, J., Zuber, M.T. [2006]. Science 313, 652–655) spin and shape evolution scenarios also completely ignore the physics of the capture into such resonances, which require prior permanent deformation, as well as tidal despinning to the relevant resonance. If the early lunar orbit was eccentric, the Moon would have been rotating at an equilibrium non-synchronous rate determined by it eccentricity. This equilibrium supersynchronous rotation would be much too fast to allow a synchronous spin–orbit lock at e = 0.49, while the capture into the 3:2 resonance is possible only for a very constrained lunar eccentricity history and assuming some early permanent lunar tri-axiality. Here I show that large impacts in the early history of the Moon would have frequently disrupted this putative resonant rotation, making the rotation and eccentricity solutions of Garrick-Bethell et al. (Garrick-Bethell, I., Wisdom, J., Zuber, M.T. [2006]. Science 313, 652–655) unstable. I conclude that the present lunar shape cannot be used to support the hypothesis of an early eccentric lunar orbit.
The SELECT study: A multicenter phase II trial of adjuvant erlotinib in resected epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

7010 Background: Cancers with activating EGFR mutations are exquisitely sensitive to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and retrospective data suggests adjuvant TKIs may improve outcomes in EGFR mutants. This prospective trial investigates the safety and efficacy of adjuvant erlotinib in EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC. Methods: Patients (pts) with surgically resected stage IA-IIIA NSCLC harboring activating EGFR mutations were treated with 150 mg/day of erlotinib for 2 years (y) after completion of any standard adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. The trial was designed to enroll 36 patients, and powered to demonstrate a primary endpoint of 2 y disease free survival (DFS) exceeding 85%, which would suggest improvement over the historically expected 70% 2 y DFS in early stage EGFR-mutant NSCLC (J Thorac Oncol 6:569). Results: Thirty-six pts were enrolled at five sites between 1/08 and 11/09; 53% stage I; 19% stage II; 28% stage IIIA. Toxicities were typical of erlotinib; no grade 4 or 5 events or p...
Agnostic system identification for monte carlo planning

While model-based reinforcement learning is often studied under the assumption that a fully accurate model is contained within the model class, this is rarely true in practice. When the model class may be fundamentally limited, it can be difficult to obtain theoretical guarantees. Under some conditions the DAgger algorithm promises a policy nearly as good as the plan obtained from the most accurate model in the class, but only if the planning algorithm is near-optimal, which is also rarely the case in complex problems. This paper explores the interaction between DAgger and Monte Carlo planning, specifically showing that DAgger may perform poorly when coupled with a sub-optimal planner. A novel variation of DAgger specifically for use with Monte Carlo planning is derived and is shown to behave far better in some cases where DAgger fails.
Woody vegetation and canopy fragmentation along a forest-to-urban gradient

To identify patterns that can be used to predict vegetation and landscape characteristics in urban environments, we surveyed the species composition and size of woody plants, as well as the landscape structure of forest canopies, along a forest-to-urban gradient near Oxford, Ohio, USA. The gradient included six sites of increasingly urban land-use: a preserve, a recreational area, a golf course, a residential subdivision, apartment complexes, and a business district. We recorded species identity and stem diameter for all woody plants greater than 3 cm diameter at breast height (DBH) to examine the distribution of individual species as well as overall community composition. We used digitized aerial photographs to compare the spatial characteristics of the forest canopy at each site. We found predictable patterns in species diversity (Shannon index), spatial heterogeneity in species composition (mean percent dissimilarity), and all measures of patch fragmentation (canopy cover and patch number and size). There were clear differences in tree density and total basal area between forested sites and developed sites, but there was little resolution among developed sites. Species richness and average DBH showed no clear pattern, suggesting that landscaping preference largely determined these values. We present a modified version of an intermediate heterogeneity model that can be used to predict diversity patterns in urban areas. We discuss probable mechanisms that led to these patterns and the potential implications for animal communities in urban environments.
Endocytosis separates EGF receptors from endogenous fluorescently labeled HRas and diminishes receptor signaling to MAP kinases in endosomes

Signaling from epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) to extracellular-stimuli-regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) is proposed to be transduced not only from the cell surface but also from endosomes, although the role of endocytosis in this signaling pathway is controversial. Ras is the only membrane-anchored component in the EGFR-ERK signaling axis, and therefore, its location determines intracellular sites of downstream signaling. Hence, we labeled endogenous H-Ras (HRas) with mVenus fluorescent protein using gene editing in HeLa cells. mVenus-HRas was primarily located at the plasma membrane, and in small amounts in tubular recycling endosomes and associated vesicles. EGF stimulation resulted in fast but transient activation of mVenus-HRas. Although EGF:EGFR complexes were rapidly accumulated in endosomes together with the Grb2 adaptor, very little, if any, mVenus-HRas was detected in these endosomes. Interestingly, the activities of MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 remained high beyond the point of the physical separation of HRas from EGF:EGFR complexes and down-regulation of Ras activity. Paradoxically, this sustained MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 activation was dependent on the active EGFR kinase. Cell surface biotinylation and selective inactivation of surface EGFRs suggested that a small fraction of active EGFRs remaining in the plasma membrane is responsible for continuous signaling to MEK1/2 and ERK1/2. We propose that, under physiological conditions of cell stimulation, EGFR endocytosis serves to spatially separate EGFR-Grb2 complexes and Ras, thus terminating Ras-mediated signaling. However, sustained minimal activation of Ras by a small pool of active EGFRs in the plasma membrane is sufficient for extending MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 activities.
Effects of ankle dorsiflexion on active and passive unilateral straight leg raising.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the straight-leg-raising (SLR) maneuver while the ankle was fixed in dorsiflexion or relaxed in plantar flexion. Twenty-two healthy subjects underwent active and passive SLR with the ankle in each position. We used cinematography to document movement of the right lower limb and pelvis and electromyography to document hamstring muscle activity. Analyses of variance of the angles of maximum SLR and change in the pelvic position showed a significant F ratio (p = .01) among the active and passive trials. Post hoc analyses demonstrated significant differences (p = .01) between SLR with dorsiflexion and SLR with plantar flexion. The EMG activity among trials was not significantly different. The possible causes of the effects of dorsiflexion on SLR are discussed. We encourage clinicians to document and compare SLR with dorsiflexion and SLR with plantar flexion, and we recommend additional research to examine the relative influence of tissue structures on SLR.
Cell differentiation alters metallothionein expression in avian growth plate chondrocytes

Endochondral bone formation represents the primary mechanism of vertebrate skeletal development and is the means by which longitudinal bone growth occurs in the epiphyseal growth plate [1]. During this process growth plate chondrocytes progress through a series of distinct developmental stages, each of which is characterized by the expression of specific marker proteins and changes in electrolyte metabolism. This progression proceeds from an early resting stage, through a proliferative stage characterized by active cell division and matrix synthesis, a hypertrophic stage and finally, an apoptotic terminally differentiated stage [2, 3]. In the later stages of this developmental cascade, extracellular matrix vesicles are released from the cell membrane [4] and become the initial sites of calcium phosphate mineral formation thereby triggering matrix calcification [5]. Studies in our laboratory have shown that zinc is essential to normal chondrocyte growth and differentiation [6] and plays an important role in matrix vesicle mineralization [7]. In order to gain a better understanding of metal ion metabolism in these calcifying cells, we examined the expression of the intracellular Zn-binding protein metallothionein (MT) in avian growth plate tissue and chondrocyte cell cultures.
Sociocultural variation in attitudes toward use of genetic information and participation in genetic research by race in the United States: implications for precision medicine

Background “Precision medicine” (PM) requires researchers to identify actionable genetic risks and for clinicians to interpret genetic testing results to patients. Whether PM will equally benefit all populations or exacerbate existing disparities is uncertain. Methods We ascertained attitudes toward genetic testing and genetic research by race in the United States using the online Amazon mTurk US workforce (n = 403 White; n = 56 African American (AA)). Generalized linear models were used to test differences in beliefs and preferences by race, adjusting for sociodemographics and prior genetic experience. Results AA were less likely than White to believe that genetic tests should be promoted or made available. Further, AA were less likely to want genetic testing results or to participate in genetic research. Conclusions Important dimensions that underlay PM are not universally accepted by all populations. Without clear attention to concerns, AA communities may not equally benefit from the rapidly-emerging trend in PM-centered research and clinical practice.
MobiVPN: A mobile VPN providing persistency to applications

Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the traditional approach for an end-to-end secure connection between two endpoints. But conventional VPN solutions are intended for wired networks with high-speed, highly reliable connections. In a mobile environment, connections are less reliable. This affects traditional VPN performance resulting in frequent application failure, data loss and reduced productivity. MobiVPN bridges the gap between what users and applications expect from a wired network and the realities of mobility. In this work, system design for a caching model is developed, and modifications to the OpenVPN software is implemented to make disruptions in the VPN transparent to the applications. MobiVPN is able to provide 1) persistency to application despite long unavailability of network connection using caching and freeze TCP techniques; with negligible throughput penalty when there is no disconnections due to extra computation overhead, and 2) improved TCP performance when disconnections occur up to 9.88% increase in throughput.
Climate, CO2, and the history of North American grasses since the Last Glacial Maximum

The spread of C4 grasses in the late Neogene is one of the most important ecological transitions of the Cenozoic, but the primary driver of this global expansion is widely debated. We use the stable carbon isotopic composition (δ13C) of bison and mammoth tissues as a proxy for the relative abundance of C3 and C4 vegetation in their grazing habitat to determine climatic and atmospheric CO2 controls on C4 grass distributions from the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) to the present. We predict the spatial variability of grass δ13C in North America using a mean of three different methods of classification and regression tree (CART) machine learning techniques and nine climatic variables. We show that growing season precipitation and temperature are the strongest predictors of all single climate variables. We apply this CART analysis to high-resolution gridded climate data and Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) mean paleoclimate model outputs to produce predictive isotope landscape models (“isoscapes”) for the current, mid-Holocene, and LGM average δ13C of grass-dominated areas across North America. From the LGM to the present, C4 grass abundances substantially increased in the Great Plains despite concurrent increases in atmospheric CO2. These results suggest that changes in growing season precipitation rather than atmospheric CO2 were critically important in the Neogene expansion of C4 grasses.
Vascular Pathology in Rabbits Following Administration of Foreign Protein.

SummaryMild vascular and perivascular alterations of the smaller branches of the coronary arteries were observed in a majority of rabbits following the parenteral injection of horse serum. No rabbit which elicited a necrotic-type of skin reaction failed to show vascular lesions.
Circadian regulators of intestinal lipid absorption

Among all the metabolites present in the plasma, lipids, mainly triacylglycerol and diacylglycerol, show extensive circadian rhythms. These lipids are transported in the plasma as part of lipoproteins. Lipoproteins are synthesized primarily in the liver and intestine and their production exhibits circadian rhythmicity. Studies have shown that various proteins involved in lipid absorption and lipoprotein biosynthesis show circadian expression. Further, intestinal epithelial cells express circadian clock genes and these genes might control circadian expression of different proteins involved in intestinal lipid absorption. Intestinal circadian clock genes are synchronized by signals emanating from the suprachiasmatic nuclei that constitute a master clock and from signals coming from other environmental factors, such as food availability. Disruptions in central clock, as happens due to disruptions in the sleep/wake cycle, affect intestinal function. Similarly, irregularities in temporal food intake affect intestinal function. These changes predispose individuals to various metabolic disorders, such as metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Here, we summarize how circadian rhythms regulate microsomal triglyceride transfer protein, apoAIV, and nocturnin to affect diurnal regulation of lipid absorption.
Safety of Bronchoscopy in Elderly

Flexible bronchoscopy is a well-tolerated procedure with low mortality and complication rates. Despite the relative safety of the procedure, there have been concerns about the safety of the procedure when faced with an elderly patient. Even the most recent American Thoracic Society Guidelines on flexible bronchoscopy in adults list advanced age as a condition involving increased risk, considering the higher prevalence of ischemic heart disease and altered metabolism of sedatives and local anesthetics used during the procedure. Because of this, the myth that the elderly patient poses increased risk has been perpetuated. In this article we review the available literature to explore the validity of this myth.
Serial task structure and the doctrine of remote associations

A series of studies by Slamecka (1964) provided impetus for developing three criteria to test the validity of anticipatory and perseverative errors. Since these criteria were met by conditions of a previous study (Ellis & Manning, 1967), supplementary data were collected, combined with the earlier data, and reexamined. In addition to finding support for Slamecka’s concept of item positioning, it was determined that intraitem structure also affects frequency and distribution of serial learning errors. Comparing these results with expectancies predicted by remote association theory cast additional doubt on the validity of anticipatory and perseverative errors.
Oxidation-Potential Tuning of Tungsten–Alkylidyne Complexes over a 2 V Range

The electrochemistry and electronic structures of over 30 tungsten-alkylidyne compounds of the form W(CR)L(n)L'(4-n)X (R = H, Bu(t), Ph, p-C6H4CCH, p-C6H4CCSiPr(i)3; X = F, Cl, Br, I, OTf, Bu(n), CN, OSiMe3, OPh; L/L' = PMe3, 1/2 dmpe, 1/2 depe, 1/2 dppe, 1/2 tmeda, P(OMe)3, CO, CNBu(t), py), in which the alkylidyne R group and L and X ligands are systematically varied, have been investigated using cyclic voltammetry and density functional theory calculations in order to determine the extent to which the oxidation potential may be tuned and its dependence on the nature of the metal-ligand interactions. The first oxidation potentials are found to span a range of ∼2 V. Symmetry considerations and the electronic-structure calculations indicate that the highest occupied molecular orbital (and redox orbital) is of principal d(xy) orbital parentage for most of the compounds in this series. The dependence of the oxidation potential on ligand is a strong function of the symmetry relationship between the substituent and the d(xy) orbital, being much more sensitive to the nature of the equatorial L ligands (π symmetry, with respect to d(xy), ΔE1/2 ≅ 0.5 V/L) than to the axial CR and X ligands (nonbonding with respect to d(xy), ΔE(1/2) < 0.3 V/L). The oxidation potential is linearly correlated with the calculated d(xy) orbital energy (slope ≅ 1, R(2) = 0.97), which thus provides a convenient computational descriptor for the potential. The strength of the correlation and slope of unity are proposed to be manifestations of the small inner-sphere reorganization energy associated with one-electron oxidation.
Attention to Orthographic and Phonological Word Forms in Vocabulary Instruction for Kindergarten English Learners.

This study examined benefits of connecting meaning, speech, and print in vocabulary learning for kindergarten English learners. Students screened eligible with limited English proficiency were randomly assigned to two instruction conditions. Both groups received direct instruction in high frequency root words. One condition featured added attention to orthographic and phonological word features. Increased attention to the spoken and printed word forms was associated with significantly greater gains in general vocabulary and word reading, and in taught-word spelling. Results suggest features of effective vocabulary instruction for young and English learner students.
A site for sori: Ecophysiology of fertile–sterile leaf dimorphy in ferns

Premise of the study Reproduction often requires significant investment and can move resources away from growth and maintenance; maintaining a balance between reproduction and growth can involve trade-offs. Extreme functional specialization has separated reproduction and photosynthesis in most seed plants, yet ferns use the laminar surface of their fronds for both reproduction and photosynthesis. This dual function selects for a variety of frond morphologies that range from no specialization (monomorphy) to extreme dimorphy between fertile and sterile fronds (holodimorphy). Here we examined the ecological and physiological consequences of variation in frond dimorphy in ferns, evaluated reproductive trade-offs across a dimorphy gradient, and speculate on factors controlling the occurrence of holodimorphy. Methods Ecophysiological measurements of photosynthetic rate, water potential, hydraulic conductivity, and gross morphological comparisons of frond area and angle were used to evaluate differences between fertile and sterile fronds. We examined three temperate and three tropical fern species that vary in degree of fertile-sterile dimorphy. Key results Holodimorphic species produced fewer fertile fronds, which had significantly higher respiratory rates than in sterile fronds on the same plant or in any frond produced on monomorphic species; hemidimorphic species were frequently intermediate. We found no differences in vulnerability to cavitation between fertile and sterile fronds. In dimorphic species, fertile fronds had higher (less negative) water potential and lower stipe hydraulic conductivity relative than in sterile fronds. Conclusions Fertile-sterile dimorphy in ferns appears to come at considerable carbon cost in holodimorohic species. It is possible that the relative costs of this reproductive system are offset by increased spore dispersal, yet such trade-offs require further exploration.
Clinical and molecular features of young-onset colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer related mortality worldwide. Although young-onset CRC raises the possibility of a hereditary component, hereditary CRC syndromes only explain a minority of young-onset CRC cases. There is evidence to suggest that young-onset CRC have a different molecular profile than late-onset CRC. While the pathogenesis of young-onset CRC is well characterized in individuals with an inherited CRC syndrome, knowledge regarding the molecular features of sporadic young-onset CRC is limited. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of young-onset CRC can help us tailor specific screening and management strategies. While the incidence of late-onset CRC has been decreasing, mainly attributed to an increase in CRC screening, the incidence of young-onset CRC is increasing. Differences in the molecular biology of these tumors and low suspicion of CRC in young symptomatic individuals, may be possible explanations. Currently there is no evidence that supports that screening of average risk individuals less than 50 years of age will translate into early detection or increased survival. However, increasing understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of young-onset CRC could help us tailor specific screening and management strategies. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the current knowledge about young-onset CRC, its clinicopathologic features, and the newly recognized molecular alterations involved in tumor progression.
Mining Controller Inputs to Understand Gameplay

Today's game analytics systems are powered by event logs, which reveal information about what players are doing but offer little insight about the types of gameplay that games foster. Moreover, the concept of gameplay itself is difficult to define and quantify. In this paper, we show that analyzing players' controller inputs using probabilistic topic models allows game developers to describe the types of gameplay -- or action -- in games in a quantitative way. More specifically, developers can discover the types of action that a game fosters and the extent that each game level fosters each type of action, all in an unsupervised manner. They can use this information to verify that their levels feature the appropriate style of gameplay and to recommend levels with gameplay that is similar to levels that players like. We begin with latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA), the simplest topic model, then develop the player-gameplay action (PGA) model to make the same types of discoveries about gameplay in a way that is independent of each player's play style. We train a player recognition system on the PGA model's output to verify that its discoveries about gameplay are in fact independent of each player's play style. The system recognizes players with over 90% accuracy in about 20 seconds of playtime.
A Compact High Performance Readout Electronics Solution for H9500 Hamamatsu 256 Multianode Photomultiplier Tube for Application in Gamma Cameras

We have developed a new readout electronics module for 2-D data readout of H9500 256 (16 times16) Hamamatsu Photomultiplier Tube. This is a 3.04 times 3.04 mm2 anode pad pitch size tube with 1.5 mm thick window. This photo tube is most suitable for high resolution gamma cameras, but the large number of anode outputs makes the readout electronics development complicated. The readout electronics solution to be presented is based on the resistors matrix network (V. Popov, US patent No: 6,747,263 B1) which provides decoupling of all 256 anode outputs into a set of 16 X + 16 Y analog outputs, plus it is integrated with anode gain non-uniformity correction circuit [Popov, et al., 2006], We chose this technique, because it allowed getting a maximum position accuracy performance and significantly reduced the number of analog data acquisition connections. The designed analog circuit uses only standard SMD components, no custom ICs. A small amount of analog outputs allowed to place all electronics components on a small size PCBs and to mount them directly on anode output connectors attached to H9500. This design preserves side-by-side uses of several H9500 PSPMT modules in arrays. We present the results of H9500 readout electronics evaluation in the case of uses of different scintillator pixillated crystal arrays and continuous scintillator crystal.
Quality Assessment of Drug Therapy

Dozens of new drugs, new combinations, and new dosage forms are approved each year in the USA and Europe. The availability of valuable new agents creates opportunities for improved therapeutic outcomes, but also creates increased opportunities for inappropriate medication use. The clinical pharmacologist must have generalized expertise in the use of medications that can be applied across the organization in clinical practice and in independent and collaborative research activities. Quality assessment and improvement of medication use constitute an important skill set. The objective of this chapter will be to review medication use quality issues in an institutional context and highlight their impact on patient care and clinical research. The focus is on three themes: understanding the medication-use system and organizational interests in medication use; understanding the application of drug-use monitoring as a tool to improve medication use; and understanding processes to identify and improve medication errors. Improvement in quality of medication use revolves around identifying and minimizing systematic risk of error, and improving outcomes through the use of relevant guidelines and benchmarking tools.
Salman Rushdie’s Authorial Self-fashioning in Joseph Anton:

This article examines some of the highlights, limitations, and contradictions of Rushdie’s authorial personas that have been perpetuated and challenged by his critics and the mass media. I argue th...
General Health Adverse Events Within 30 Days Following Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion in US Patients: A Comparison of Spine Surgeons' Perceptions and Reported Data for Rates and Risk Factors.

Study design Survey study and retrospective review of prospective data. Objectives To contrast surgeons' perceptions and reported national data regarding the rates of postoperative adverse events following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and to assess the accuracy of surgeons in predicting the impact of patient factors on such outcomes. Methods A survey investigating perceived rates of perioperative complications and the perceived effect of patient risk factors on the occurrence of complications following ACDF was distributed to spine surgeons at the Cervical Spine Research Society (CSRS) 2015 Annual Meeting. The equivalent reported rates of adverse events and impacts of patient risk factors on such complications were assessed in patients undergoing elective ACDF from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP). Results There were 110 completed surveys from attending physicians at CSRS (response rate = 44%). There were 18 019 patients who met inclusion criteria in NSQIP years 2011 to 2014. The rates of 11 out of 17 (65%) postoperative adverse events were mildly overestimated by surgeons responding to the CSRS questionnaire in comparison to reported NSQIP data (overestimates ranged from 0.24% to 1.50%). The rates of 2 out of 17 (12%) postoperative adverse events were mildly underestimated by surgeons (range = 0.08% to 1.2%). The impacts of 5 out of 10 (50%) patient factors were overestimated by surgeons (range relative risk = 0.56 to 1.48). Conclusions Surgeon estimates of risk factors for and rates of adverse events following ACDF procedures were reasonably nearer to national data. Despite an overall tendency toward overestimation, surgeons' assessments are roughly appropriate for surgical planning, expectation setting, and quality improvement initiatives.
“I Didn’t Come to School for This”: A Qualitative Examination of Experiences With Race-Related Stressors and Coping Responses Among Black Students Attending a Predominantly White Institution:

Exposure to race-related stressors such as discrimination may take a toll on Black undergraduates attending predominantly White institutions (PWIs) who must contend with these stressors in addition...
Evidence for pyrazine-based chromophores in cloud water mimics containing methylglyoxal and ammonium sulfate

Abstract. Simulating aqueous brown carbon (aqBrC) formation from small molecule amines and aldehydes in cloud water mimics provides insight into potential humic-like substance (HULIS) contributors and their effect on local and global aerosol radiative forcing. Previous work has shown that these (Maillard type) reactions generate products that are chemically, physically, and optically similar to atmospheric HULIS in many significant ways, including in their complexity. Despite numerous characterization studies, attribution of the intense brown color of many aqBrC systems to specific compounds remains incomplete. In this work, we present evidence of novel pyrazine-based chromophores (PBCs) in the product mixture of aqueous solutions containing methylglyoxal and ammonium sulfate. PBCs observed here include 2,5-dimethyl pyrazine (DMP) and products of methylglyoxal addition to the pyrazine ring. This finding is significant as the literature of Maillard reactions in food chemistry tightly links the formation of pyrazine (and related compounds) to browning in foods. We investigated the roles of both cloud processing (by bulk evaporation) and pH in absorptivity and product distribution in microliter samples to understand the contribution of these PBCs to aqBrC properties. In agreement with previous work, we observed elevated absorptivity across the entire UV–visible spectrum following simulated cloud processing as well as higher absorptivity in more basic samples. Absorptivity of the pH 2 sample, following evaporation over a period of days, exceeded that of the unevaporated pH 9 sample. In addition, mixtures of ammonium sulfate and methylglyoxal at pH 5 that were dried in under 1 h and analyzed 24 h later were as absorptive as pH 9 samples allowed to react for 7 days, indicating that evaporation occurring during cloud processing may provide a reaction pathway favorable for carbonyl–ammonia chemistry even under acidic conditions of aerosol and cloud water. The fraction of pyrazine compounds in the product mixture increased by up to a factor of 4 in response to drying with a maximum observed contribution of 16 % at pH 5. Therefore, cloud processing under acidic conditions may produce PBCs at the expense of imine- and imidazole-derived compounds. This finding has implications for further BrC reactivity and degradation pathways.
Duodenal Adenocarcinoma in a Patient with Partial Intestinal Malrotation.

Abstract Background: Small bowel cancers, specifically duodenal cancer, occur at very low rates but require aggressive surgical resection when diagnosed. An even rarer finding is the presence of in...
FUEL CELLS – PROTON-EXCHANGE MEMBRANE FUEL CELLS | Overview Performance and Operational Conditions

Proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are currently being developed and have reached a precommercial stage. A limited number of units were provided to potential users for demonstration and performance data collection purposes. Because the envisaged markets are easily reaching billions of dollars in the short term, competition is significant, hampering dissemination of detailed commercial designs, operating conditions, and performance information. Because of these considerations, general aspects related to key performance parameters are discussed including voltage, power, efficiency, heat flux, and the flow field channel length effects. A simplified mathematical framework is also discussed to represent the key performance parameters. The main PEMFC applications are briefly discussed in terms of the overriding design criteria and their relationship with key performance parameters, system layout, and operating conditions.
Kidney Transplant in the Era of Modern Therapy for Multiple Myeloma

Chronic kidney disease is common in patients with multiple myeloma. Historically, individuals with end-stage renal disease and multiple myeloma did poorly with renal transplantation due to higher mortality rates from the malignancy itself or associated comorbidities. However, over the past 2 decades, there have been significant advances in the treatment of multiple myeloma with the advent of new therapeutic agents resulting in an improvement of long-term survival. As a result, more individuals with multiple myeloma are being referred for kidney transplantation, especially those with good functional capacity and minimal comorbidities. Recent literature has suggested that certain patients with multiple myeloma can successfully undergo renal transplantation after stem transplantation with consideration for maintenance therapy, although caution should be used with immunomodulating drugs due to the anecdotally reported risk of acute rejection. Therefore, having a multidisciplinary approach with the transplant team and hematology both before and after transplant is crucial in maximizing the chance of success for these individuals. This review summarizes the literature on renal transplantation in patients with multiple myeloma as well as the therapeutic advancements that have occurred which may allow certain patients to undergo successful transplantation.
Trajectory-Enhanced AIRS Observations of Environmental Factors Driving Severe Convective Storms

AbstractWe investigate environmental factors of severe convective weather using temperature and moisture retrievals from the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) that lie along parcel trajectories t...
Zero Voltage Switching for Flying Capacitor Multilevel Converters at Nominal Conversion Ratios

In Hybrid Switched Capacitor topologies, zero voltage switching (ZVS) has recently gained attention as a key method to reduce switching losses. However, recent literature has identified certain conditions (particularly light-load), and conversion ratios where ZVS is challenging or impossible. Specifically, in Flying Capacitor Multilevel (FCML) converters, there are certain nominal conversion ratios (at integer fractions of the input voltage) where a first-order model predicts zero current ripple -preventing effective ZVS for low-high transitions. This paper will show that through the introduction of additional switching states and operating near the resonant frequency, ZVS can indeed be achieved in these scenarios. We discuss the additional switching states and analytically determine their time durations to achieve ZVS operation. The theory is verified with a 3:1 and 2:1 converter prototype, showing that the proposed method can significantly reduce power loss and dv/dt noise.
Neuroendovascular surgery: a modern family

The field of neuroendovascular surgery is collaborative and multidisciplinary. It continues to become more so as time passes. I wrote a JNIS editor’s column several years' ago about the multitude of disease processes that neuroendovascular surgeons treat and the many collaborations with diverse specialties that this breadth of interest generates.1 That editorial did not focus, however, on the diverse nature of the practitioners, themselves, within our specialty. The field of neuroendovascular surgery is expanding as rapidly as any other medical subspecialty. There are many reasons for this growth. Medicine is moving toward minimally invasive procedures. Relevant examples include the treatment of aneurysms, intracerebral hemorrhage, and spinal pathologies. New technologies have allowed many disease processes to be treated through the body’s vascular network. Most importantly, providers from many diverse subspecialties of medicine (interventional neuroradiology, neurosurgery, neurology) have converged on neuroendovascular surgery as their practice focus. This does not even account for the diagnostic neuroradiologists, cardiologists, and peripheral/vascular interventionalists who perform procedures considered to be within the scope of neuroendovascular surgery. Our multidisciplinary network of providers is unique, but not exclusive, in medicine. Plastic surgeons and otolaryngologists perform facial plastics procedures. Neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons operate on the spine. Both neurooncologists and medical oncologists care for patients with brain tumors. None of these fields, however, incorporate as diverse a group of practitioners as neuroendovascular surgery. When not performing neuroendovascular procedures, the jobs and tasks of the different …
Do Teachers Want Democracy? Deliberative Culture and Teachers’ Evaluations of Schools:

Teachers have become important actors in national, state, and, especially, local politics. Most research on the political behavior of teachers focuses on their relationship with public-sector union...
Experimental Evaluation and Characterization of Radioactive Source Effects on Robot Visual Localization and Mapping

Robots are ideally suited to performing simple tasks in dangerous environments. In this letter, we address the use of robots for inspection of nuclear reactors which may be contaminated by radiation. The geometry of a reactor vessel is three-dimensional with significant clutter. Accordingly, we propose the use of small-scale, flying robots that are able to localize themselves and autonomously navigate around obstacles. Because of the constraints on size, we rely on cameras which are the best low power and lightweight sensors. However, cameras perform poorly in the presence of radioactivity and the impact of radiation on robotics systems is not well understood. In this letter, we (a) analyze the effects of radioactive sources on camera sensors, affecting localization and mapping algorithms, (b) quantify these effects from a statistical viewpoint according to different source intensities; and (c) compare different solutions to mitigate these effects. Our analysis is supported and validated by experimental data collected on a Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) camera sensor exposed to radioactive sources in a hot cell.
Natural killer cells expanded in vivo or ex vivo with IL-15 overcomes the inherent susceptibility of CAST mice to lethal infection with orthopoxviruses.

The wild-derived inbred CAST/EiJ mouse, one of eight founder strains in the Collaborative Cross panel, is an exceptional model for studying monkeypox virus (MPXV), an emerging human pathogen, and other orthopoxviruses including vaccinia virus (VACV). Previous studies suggested that the extreme susceptibility of the CAST mouse to orthopoxviruses is due to an insufficient innate immune response. Here, we focused on the low number of natural killer (NK) cells in the naive CAST mouse as a contributing factor to this condition. Administration of IL-15 to CAST mice transiently increased NK and CD8+ T cells that could express IFN-γ, indicating that the progenitor cells were capable of responding to cytokines. However, the number of NK cells rapidly declined indicating a defect in their homeostasis. Furthermore, IL-15-treated mice were protected from an otherwise lethal challenge with VACV or MPXV. IL-15 decreased virus spread and delayed death even when CD4+/CD8+ T cells were depleted with antibody, supporting an early protective role of the expanded NK cells. Purified splenic NK cells from CAST mice proliferated in vitro in response to IL-15 and could be activated with IL-12/IL-18 to secrete interferon-γ. Passive transfer of non-activated or activated CAST NK cells reduced VACV spread but only the latter completely prevented death at the virus dose used. Moreover, antibodies to interferon-γ abrogated the protection by activated NK cells. Thus, the inherent susceptibility of CAST mice to orthopoxviruses can be explained by a low level of NK cells and this vulnerability can be overcome either by expanding their NK cells in vivo with IL-15 or by passive transfer of purified NK cells that were expanded and activated in vitro.
Evaluating relationships between lung cancer stigma, anxiety, and depressive symptoms and the absence of empathic opportunities presented during routine clinical consultations.

Abstract Objective Empathic communication in clinical consultations is mutually constructed, with patients first presenting empathic opportunities (statements communicating emotions, challenges, or progress) to which clinicians can respond. We hypothesized that lung cancer patients who did not present empathic opportunities during routine consultations would report higher stigma, anxiety, and depressive symptoms than patients who presented at least one. Methods Audio-recorded consultations between lung cancer patients (N = 56) and clinicians were analyzed to identify empathic opportunities. Participants completed questionnaires measuring sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics. Results Twenty-one consultations (38 %) did not contain empathic opportunities. Unexpectedly, there was a significant interaction between presenting empathic opportunities and patients’ race on disclosure-related stigma (i.e., discomfort discussing one’s cancer; F = 4.49, p = .041) and anxiety (F = 8.03, p = .007). Among racial minority patients (self-identifying as Black/African-American, Asian/Pacific Islander, or other race), those who did not present empathic opportunities reported higher stigma than those who presented at least one (t=-5.47, p = .038), but this difference was not observed among white patients (t = 0.38, p = .789). Additional statistically significant findings emerged for anxiety. Conclusion Disclosure-related stigma and anxiety may explain why some patients present empathic opportunities whereas others do not. Practice implications Clinicians should intentionally elicit empathic opportunities and encourage open communication with patients (particularly from diverse racial backgrounds).
Metabolic rate shapes phenotypic covariance among physiological, behavioral, and life-history traits in honeybees

Metabolic rate is often cited as the fundamental rate which determines the rate of all biological processes by shaping energetic availability for the various physiological, behavioral, and life-history traits that contribute to performance. It has therefore been suggested that metabolic rate drives the widely observed covariance among these different levels of phenotypic traits. However, much of the work on this topic has relied on pairwise correlational analysis on a handful of traits at a time, leaving an important gap in our understanding regarding the functional links that shape this phenotypic covariance, often referred to as pace of life. Using honeybees as a model, we measured a large number of behavioral, life-history, and physiological traits in individual bees and used a path analysis to demonstrate that variation in metabolic rate plays a fundamental proximate role in driving the covariance among these traits. We combined this with a factor analysis in a structural equation model framework to characterize the overall phenotypic covariance or the pace-of-life axis in honeybees. We discuss the importance of these findings in the context of how interindividual variation in terms of slow–fast phenotypes may drive the phenotype of a group and the functional role metabolic rate might play in shaping division of labor and social evolution. The study provides empirical support for the theoretical idea that metabolic rate acts as a proximate driver of phenotypic covariance among several physiological, behavioral, and life-history traits at the individual level and that behavior acts as a mediator for how metabolic rate affects life history. In addition, using honeybees as an experimental model for this study establishes a framework for asking questions regarding how these individual-level phenotypic covariance patterns lead to observed phenotypic covariance patterns at the colony level, an idea which has functional consequences for division of labor and social evolution. The results of this study therefore contribute toward a better understanding of the rules of life that shape processes across different levels of biological organization. Our use of different structural equation modeling approaches for inferring heuristics and proximate causal relationships among multiple phenotypic traits also informs future research efforts on this topic.
A Twisted Ladder: Relating the Fe Superconductors to the High Tc Cuprates

We construct a two-leg ladder model of an Fe-pnictide superconductor and discuss its properties and relationship with the familiar two-leg cuprate model. Our results suggest that the underlying pairing mechanism for the Fe-pnictide superconductors is similar to that for the cuprates.
Recent Advances in Stimuli‐Responsive Commodity Polymers

Known for their adaptability to surroundings, capability of transport control of molecules, or the ability of converting one type of energy to another as a result of external or internal stimuli, responsive polymers play a significant role in advancing scientific discoveries that may lead to an array of diverge applications. This review outlines recent advances in the developments of selected commodity polymers equipped with stimuli-responsiveness to temperature, pH, ionic strength, enzyme or glucose levels, carbon dioxide, water, redox agents, electromagnetic radiation, or electric and magnetic fields. Utilized diverse applications ranging from drug delivery to biosensing, dynamic structural components to color-changing coatings, this review focuses on commodity acrylics, epoxies, esters, carbonates, urethanes, and siloxane-based polymers containing responsive elements built into their architecture. In the context of stimuli-responsive chemistries, current technological advances as well as a critical outline of future opportunities and applications are also tackled.
Comparison of Three Oral Chlortetracycline Treatment Regimens for Persistent Anaplasma marginale Carrier Clearance

Anaplasma marginale causes the most prevalent tick-transmitted disease of cattle. Once infected, a lifelong carrier state persists to function as a disease reservoir enabling subsequent vector infection or production equipment contamination. Despite reports of successful carrier clearance, no antimicrobial compound is labeled for disease elimination. In the absence of an efficacious vaccine, a validated antimicrobial regimen for persistent A. marginale elimination is urgently needed. Three oral chlortetracycline (CTC) treatments were evaluated for carrier clearance in cattle persistently infected with a Virginia isolate of A marginale.