cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Environmental release of core–shell semiconductor nanocrystals from free-standing polymer nanocomposite films

Concomitant with the development of polymer nanocomposite (PNC) technologies across numerous industries is an expanding awareness of the uncertainty with which engineered nanoparticles embedded within these materials may be released into the external environment, particularly liquid media. Recently there has been an interest in evaluating potential exposure to nanoscale fillers from PNCs, but existing studies often rely upon uncharacterized, poor quality, or proprietary materials, creating a barrier to making general mechanistic conclusions about release phenomena. In this study we employed semiconductor nanoparticles (quantum dots, QDs) as model nanofillers to quantify potential release into liquid media under specific environmental conditions. QDs of two sizes were incorporated into low-density polyethylene by melt compounding and the mixtures were extruded as free-standing fluorescent films. These films were subjected to tests under conditions intended to accelerate potential release of embedded particles or dissolved residuals into liquid environments. Using inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry and laser scanning confocal microscopy, it was found that the acidity of the external medium, exposure time, and small differences in particle size (on the order of a few nm) all play pivotal roles in release kinetics. Particle dissolution was found to play a major if not dominant role in the release process. This paper also presents the first evidence that internally embedded nanoparticles contribute to the mass transfer, an observation made possible via the use of a model system that was deliberately designed to probe the complex relationships between nanoparticle-enabled plastics and the environment.
A framework for formally verifying software transactional memory algorithms

We present a framework for verifying transactional memory (TM) algorithms. Specifications and algorithms are specified using I/O automata, enabling hierarchical proofs that the algorithms implement the specifications. We have used this framework to develop what we believe is the first fully formal machine-checked verification of a practical TM algorithm: the NOrec algorithm of Dalessandro, Spear and Scott. Our framework is available for others to use and extend. New proofs can leverage existing ones, eliminating significant work and complexity.
Transitioning to a hydrogen economy: Kinetic isotope effects of stratospheric monodeuterated hydrogen accumulation

Abstract This paper investigates for the first time the influence of monodeuterated hydrogen on kinetics of seven stratospheric radical reactions in a consistent, unified manner using the same level of quantum chemistry computational theory. We optimize transition-state structures using MP2 perturbation theory within the finite aug-cc-pVTZ, and show that the evolution to a full-scale hydrogen economy results in the atmospheric accumulation of heavy methane and heavy hydrogen, which can lead to a decrease of polar stratospheric clouds on which ozone is depletion occurs. KIEs imply that increased deuterium in the stratosphere will slow the rate at which HCl reacts with the hydroxyl radical by, approximately, a factor of four. Notwithstanding the improvements of dual-tuning effects of the thermodynamics and kinetics for hydrogen storage materials, these results evidence the need to further investigate, in a systemic rather than piecemeal fashion, the potential impact of anthropogenically released heavy hydrogen on atmospheric radical reactions.
Isolated Ground-State Vibrational Coherence Measured by Fifth-Order Single-Shot Two-Dimensional Electronic Spectroscopy

Vibrations play a critical role in many photochemical and photophysical processes in which excitations reside on the electronically excited state. However, difficulty in assigning signals from spectroscopic measurements uniquely to a specific electronic state, ground or otherwise, has exposed limitations to their physical interpretation. Here, we demonstrate the selective excitation of vibrational coherences on the ground electronic state through impulsive Raman scattering, whose weak fifth-order signal is resonantly enhanced by coupling to strong electronic transitions. The six-wave mixing signals measured using this technique are free of lower-order cascades and represent correlations between zero-quantum vibrational coherences in the ground state and single-quantum coherences between the ground and electronic states. We believe that this technique has the potential to shed much-needed insight onto some of the mysteries regarding the origin of long-lived coherences observed in photosynthetic and other c...
Clinical Mimics: An Emergency Medicine-Focused Review of Asthma Mimics

Abstract Background Sepsis is a common clinical condition, and mortality and morbidity may be severe. The current definition of sepsis involves systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria, which is met by many conditions. Objective This review evaluates the SIRS continuum, signs and symptoms of sepsis, mimics of sepsis, and an approach to management for sepsis mimics. Discussion The current emergency medicine definition of sepsis includes SIRS, a definition that may be met by many conditions. Because of common pathophysiologic responses, these diseases present in a similar manner. These conditions include anaphylaxis, gastrointestinal emergency, pulmonary disease, metabolic abnormality, toxin ingestion/withdrawal, vasculitis, and spinal injury. Many of these conditions can be deadly if they are not diagnosed and managed. However, differentiating between sepsis and mimics can be difficult in the emergency setting. Laboratory abnormalities in isolation do not provide a definitive diagnosis. However, a combination of history, physical examination, and adjunctive studies may assist providers. For the patient in extremis, resuscitation must take precedence while attempts to differentiate sepsis from mimics are underway. Conclusions SIRS and sepsis exist along a continuum, with many other conditions overlapping because of a common physiologic response. A combination of factors will assist providers in differentiating sepsis from mimics rather than using diagnostic studies in isolation. Resuscitation should be initiated while attempting to differentiate sepsis from its mimics.
The open abdomen : Enteral access results in cost savings

Purpose: To evaluate the cost savings of using enteral access for drug and nutrition delivery in patients requiring open peritoneal cavity management (laparosotomy). Methods: A review of 14 patients who required laparostomy and received at least 4 consecutive days of enteral nutrition treated at our tertiary care facility between January 1999 and May 2001. Data collected included age, sex, reason for laparostomy, enteral formulation, medications, and side effects (diarrhea and gastric reflux). Cost savings were calculated as the difference between the cost of intravenous (IV) and enteral nutritional formulation and drug dosage costs. Results: Patients were fed via nasojejunal feeding tube. Average duration of enteral nutrition (EN) was 19.1 ′ 12.3 days. Gastric reflux and diarrhea occurred in five (36%) and six (42%) patients, respectively. These were easily treated and did not require conversion to IV nutrition or medications. Drug and electrolyte levels were therapeutic at appropriate enteral doses. A total of 267 days of EN were utilized in these 14 patients. The cost difference between the parenteral nutrition that would have been used during that time and the actual enteral formula utilized was S25,373. The use of enteral rather than IV medications also resulted in a cost savings of $7,058. Thus, the combined cost savings of enteral medication and nutrition therapy for the 14 patients was $32,431. Conclusion: EN and drug therapy can be utilized in patients requiring open peritoneal cavity management. The resultant cost savings can be substantial, and these methods of cost reduction can also be applied to other patients.
Compactification of Infinite Graphs and Sampling

In the paper, we consider Hilbert spaces of functions on infinite graphs, and their compactifications. We arrive at a sampling formula in the spirit of Shannon; the idea is that we allow for sampling of functions f defined on a continuum completion of an infinite graph G, sampling the continuum by values of f at points in the graph G. Rather than the more traditional frequency analysis of band-limited functions from Shannon, our analysis is instead based on reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces built from a prescribed infinite system of resistors on G.
Survey of Abdominal Access and Associated Morbidity for Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: Does Palmer's Point Warrant Further Awareness and Study?

Abstract Introduction: Laparoscopic access for robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) is often initiated in the periumbilical location. Palmer's point, located in the left upper quadrant, has ...
Can Changes in Transformational-Oriented and Transactional-Oriented Leadership Impact Turnover over Time?

ABSTRACTThis article empirically examines the impact that leadership styles have on turnover. The results reveal that transformational-oriented leadership was found to lower voluntary turnover—that is, the aggregate of quits and transfers. Transactional-oriented leadership, on the other hand, was found to increase quits in agencies. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed in the article.
Development and evaluation of the medication-based index of physical function (MedIP).

Background the development of an objective and comprehensive drug-based index of physical function for older adults has the potential to more accurately predict fall risk. Design the index was developed using 862 adults (ages 57-85) from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) Wave 1 study. The index was evaluated in 70 adults (ages 51-88) from a rehabilitation study of dizziness and balance. Methods the prevalence among 601 drugs for 1,694 side effects was used with fall history to determine the magnitude of each side effect's contribution towards physical function. This information was used to calculate a Medication-based Index of Physical function (MedIP) score for each individual based on his or her medication profile. The MedIP was compared to the timed up and go (TUG) test as well as drug counts using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The associations between various indices of physical function and MedIP were calculated. Results within the NSHAP data set, the MedIP was better than drug counts or TUG at predicting falls based on ROC analysis. Using scores above and below the cutpoint, the MedIP was a significant predictor of falls (OR = 2.61 [95% CI 1.83, 3.64]; P < 0.001). Using an external data set, it was shown that the MedIP was significantly correlated with fall number (P = 0.044), composite physical function (P = 0.026) and preferred gait speed (P = 0.043). Conclusion the MedIP has the potential to become a useful tool in the healthcare and fall prevention of older individuals.
From Colonialism to Neoliberalism: The Co‑production of Poverty and Environmental Degradation in Haiti

The purpose of this research paper was to make an apparent connection between the current environmental degradation of Haiti and its long history of slavery, poverty, gender inequality, political insecurity, and economic repression. The text begins by explaining colonization and slavery’s role in setting up agriculture as the driving force of the nation’s economy, then goes to demonstrate how this form of agriculture has proven to have lasting effects on the health of the environment, citizens, particularly female farmers, and Haiti’s position in the globalized market. In order to support the arguments presented, research was conducted using a variety of books and articles focusing specifically on Haiti, Haitian women, its environmental and social issues, and the economic state of Caribbean countries. The author proposes an increase in environmental education and government support and the incorporation of modern and sustainable technology to improve Haiti’s worsening economic and social conditions.
IMPROVED DESCRIPTION AND MONITORING OF NEAR SURFACE HAZARDOUS INFILTRATE COMPLEXES BY SHEAR WAVES FOR EFFECTIVE CONTAINMENT REPONSE

Among numerous causes of fluid releases and infiltration in near surface, resurgence in such anthropic activities associated with unconventional resource developments have brought about a resounding concern. Apart from risk of immediate chemical hazard a long term possibly recurrent geo-environmental risk since can also be envisaged as of various prevalent stake holders and broader initiatives. Urgency and exactness for spatiotemporal containment and remediation promotes devising of efficient methods for near subsurface flow complexes monitoring caused by such spills. Swave (Shear waves) spectral imaging results, in relevant context, of a controlled immiscible fluid displacement monitoring experimental study are analyzed and inferred. Against the prospective method as well evaluated, Swave diffraction associated spectral peculiarities are examined, importantly, given background medium characteristics definition invoking fresh insights of microscale significance alongside macroscale potential.
Hepatic Lipid Accumulation and Nrf2 Expression following Perinatal and Peripubertal Exposure to Bisphenol A in a Mouse Model of Nonalcoholic Liver Disease.

Background: Exposure to chemicals during critical windows of development may re-program liver for increased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Bisphenol A (BPA), a plastics component...
Evidence-Based Practice for Autism Spectrum Disorders

Publisher Summary The treatment of autism spectrum disorders remains a very confusing topic for consumers. Claims of effective treatments abound, and few consumers understand how to accurately interpret the available information. As a result researchers and professionals have taken steps to identify the comprehensive programs and focal methods that are most effective in treating autism and its accompanying symptoms. This chapter reviews the current state of information regarding evidence-based treatment for autism. Various definitions of evidence-based treatment and the criteria used to evaluate different treatments are reviewed. Several strategies in applied behavior analysis (ABA) are highlighted, as they clearly have the largest preponderance of evidence supporting their effectiveness. ABA remains the only intervention with substantial documentation of effectiveness. A variety of focal ABA treatments are shown to be highly effective, and evidence exists for the Lovaas/UCLA comprehensive treatment package though more research is needed to provide additional empirical support for this model. ABA is committed to continually increasing knowledge regarding effective intervention. In addition, a variety of strategies that are not empirically validated but which are in common use are reviewed. Finally, recommendations for both professionals advising consumers and for consumers navigating treatment decisions are delineated.
Abstract 3656: Cardiovascular Risk Indicators and Perceived Race/Ethnic Discrimination in the Dallas Heart Study

Background: Although race/ethnic (r/e) discrimination is a chronic stressor that might have negative health effects, cardiovascular data related to experiences with discrimination among different r/e groups in the United States remain sparse. Methods and Results: Utilizing data from the multi-ethnic, Dallas Heart Study cohort, we assessed the association between experiences of perceived r/e discrimination, traditional risk factors for cardiovascular (CVD) disease, C-reactive protein (CRP) and coronary artery calcium (CAC) score among blacks, whites, and Hispanics. Prevalent CAC was defined as a CAC score ≥ 10 Agatston units and CRP elevation was defined as > 3 mg/L. Participants were asked “Have you ever been discriminated against due to your race/ethnicity (responses: yes, no or don’t know)”. Blacks reported r/e discrimination more frequently than whites or Hispanics (blacks: 50.0%; whites 13.5%; Hispanics 30.5%; p Conclusion: While perceived race/ethnic discrimination is associated with certain health characteristics that can result in negative health outcomes, we found no association between race/ethnic discrimination and either subclinical coronary artery disease determined by the coronary calcium score or inflammation as assessed by elevated CRP levels.
Detection of Unique Antigenic Lesions in the Uracil DNA Glycosylase from Bloom’s Syndrome

Human cells contain singular DNA repair pathways to excise critical lesions from DNA (Lindahl, 1982; Teebor and Frenkel, 1983; Friedberg, 1985, Strauss, 1985). Two major excision repair pathways have been identified. In nucleotide excision repair, the DNA adduct is released within an oligonucleotide after sequential action of an undetermined number of enzymes. In contrast, in base excision repair, the DNA adduct is released in the initial enzymatic step of the pathway. This reaction is catalyzed by a DNA glycosylase which cleaves the base-sugar glycosyl bond. Human cells may contain a family of DNA glycosylases each of which may be responsible for the removal of a specific modified base. Thus, the uracil DNA glycoslase removes uracil from DNA. Uracil may arise in DNA by the deamination of cytidine residues (Hayatsu, 1977) or by the incorporation of 5′dUMP during DNA synthesis (Bessman, et al., 1958). The former, by definition, would be a mutagenic event if left unrepaired. Uracil excision results in the formation of an apyrimidinic site in DNA. That site is incised by the apurinic/apyrimidinic acid (AP) endonuclease to form a single strand break. Subsequent catalysis by a DNA polymerase and DNA ligase would be minimal requirements for the completion of base excision repair.
Discourse strategies that co-construct relational identities in STEM peer tutoring

This study is a discourse analysis of the transcribed talk recorded between tutors and students in a university peer tutoring program. We focus on STEM tutoring sessions, showing how tutors and stu...
Artificially Enhancing and Suppressing Hippocampus-Mediated Memories

Emerging evidence indicates that distinct hippocampal domains differentially drive cognition and emotion [1, 2]; dorsal regions encode spatial, temporal, and contextual information [3-5], whereas ventral regions regulate stress responses [6], anxiety-related behaviors [7, 8], and emotional states [8-10]. Although previous studies demonstrate that optically manipulating cells in the dorsal hippocampus can drive the behavioral expression of positive and negative memories, it is unknown whether changes in cellular activity in the ventral hippocampus can drive such behaviors [11-14]. Investigating the extent to which distinct hippocampal memories across the longitudinal axis modulate behavior could aid in the understanding of stress-related psychiatric disorders known to affect emotion, memory, and cognition [15]. Here, we asked whether tagging and stimulating cells along the dorsoventral axis of the hippocampus could acutely, chronically, and differentially promote context-specific behaviors. Acute reactivation of both dorsal and ventral hippocampus cells that were previously active during memory formation drove freezing behavior, place avoidance, and place preference. Moreover, chronic stimulation of dorsal or ventral hippocampal fear memories produced a context-specific reduction or enhancement of fear responses, respectively, thus demonstrating bi-directional and context-specific modulation of memories along the longitudinal axis of the hippocampus. Fear memory suppression was associated with a reduction in hippocampal cells active during retrieval, while fear memory enhancement was associated with an increase in basolateral amygdala activity. Together, our data demonstrate that discrete sets of cells throughout the hippocampus provide key nodes sufficient to bi-directionally reprogram both the neural and behavioral expression of memory.
Transradial approach for neurointerventions: a systematic review of the literature

Background Despite the recent increase in the number of publications on diagnostic cerebral angiograms using transradial access (TRA), there have been relatively few regarding TRA for neurointerventional cases. Questions of feasibility and safety may still exist among physicians considering TRA for neurointerventional procedures. Methods A systematic literature review was performed following PRISMA guidelines. Three online databases (MedLine via PubMed, Scopus and Embase) were searched for articles published between January 2000 and December 2019. Search terms included “Transradial access”, “Radial Access”, “Radial artery” AND “Neurointerventions". The reference lists of selected articles and pertinent available non-systematic analysis were reviewed for other potential citations. Primary outcomes measured were access site complications and crossover rates. Results Twenty-one studies (n=1342 patients) were included in this review. Two of the studies were prospective while the remaining 19 were retrospective. Six studies (n=616 patients) included TRA carotid stenting only. The rest of the studies included treatment for cerebral aneurysms (n=423), mechanical thrombectomy (n=127), tumor embolization (n=22), and other indications (n=154) such as angioplasty and stenting for vertebrobasilar stenosis, balloon test occlusion, embolization of dural arteriovenous fistula and arteriovenous malformation, chemotherapeutic drug delivery, intra-arterial thrombolysis, and arterial access during a venous stenting procedure. Two (0.15%) major complications and 37 (2.75%) minor complications were reported. Sixty-four (4.77%) patients crossed over to transfemoral access for completion of the procedure. Seven (0.52%) patients crossed over due to access failure and 57 (4.24%) patients crossed over to TFA due to inability to cannulate the target vessel. Conclusion This systematic review demonstrates that TRA has a relatively low rate of access site complications and crossovers. With increasing familiarity, development of TRA-specific neuroendovascular devices, and the continued reports of its success in the literature, TRA is expected to become more widely used by neurointerventionalists.
Real-world experiences with acupuncture among breast cancer survivors: a cross-sectional survey study.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate acupuncture use among breast cancer survivors, including perceived symptom improvements and referral patterns. Breast cancer survivors who had used acupuncture for cancer- or treatment-related symptoms were identified using an ongoing prospective Mayo Clinic Breast Disease Registry (MCBDR). Additionally, Mayo Clinic electronic health records (MCEHR) were queried to identify eligible participants. All received a mailed consent form and survey including acupuncture-related questions about acupuncture referrals, delivery, and costs. Respondents were also asked to recall symptom severity before and after acupuncture treatment and time to benefit on Likert scales. Acupuncture use was reported among 415 participants (12.3%) of the MCBDR. Among MCBDR and MCEHR eligible participants, 241 women returned surveys. A total of 193 (82.1%) participants reported a symptomatic benefit from acupuncture, and 57 (24.1% of participants) reported a “substantial benefit” or “totally resolved my symptoms” (corresponding to 4 and 5 on the 5-point Likert scale). The mean symptom severity decreased by at least 1 point of the 5-point scale for each symptom; the percentage of patients who reported an improvement in symptoms ranged from 56% (lymphedema) to 79% (headache). The majority of patients reported time to benefit as “immediate” (34%) or “after a few treatments” (40.4%). Over half of the participants self-referred for treatment; 24.1% were referred by their oncologist. Acupuncture delivery was more frequent in private offices (61.0%) than in hospital or medical settings (42.3%). Twelve participants (5.1%) reported negative side effects, such as discomfort. Acupuncture is commonly utilized by patients for a variety of breast cancer–related symptoms. However, patients frequently self-refer for acupuncture treatments, and most acupuncture care is completed at private offices, rather than medical clinic or hospital settings.
Feasibility of Early Discharge after Open Hypopharyngeal Surgery for Dysphagia

Objective:To determine the rate of surgical complications, unplanned readmission, and functional status after open hypopharyngeal surgery for dysphagia with early return to oral diet and hospital d...
Synaptic properties of the feedback connections from the thalamic reticular nucleus to the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus

The thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN) is a shell-like structure comprised of GABAergic neurons that surrounds the dorsal thalamus. While playing a key role in modulating thalamocortical interactions, TRN inhibition of thalamic activity is often thought of as having an all-or-none impact. Although TRN neurons have a dynamic firing range, it remains unclear how variable rates of TRN activity gate thalamocortical transmission. To address this, we examined the ultrastructural features and functional synaptic properties of the feedback connections in the mouse thalamus between TRN and the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN), the principal relay of retinal signals to visual cortex. Using electron microscopy to identify TRN input to dLGN, we found that TRN terminals formed synapses with non-GABAergic postsynaptic profiles. Compared with other nonretinal terminals in dLGN, those from TRN were relatively large and tended to contact proximal regions of relay cell dendrites. To evoke TRN activity in dLGN, we adopted an optogenetic approach by expressing ChR2, or a variant (ChIEF) in TRN terminals. Both in vitro and in vivo recordings revealed that repetitive stimulation of TRN terminals led to a frequency-dependent inhibition of dLGN activity, with higher rates of stimulation resulting in increasing levels of membrane hyperpolarization and corresponding decreases in spike firing. This relationship suggests that alterations in TRN activity lead to graded changes in relay cell spike firing.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN) modulates thalamocortical transmission through inhibition. In mouse, TRN terminals in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) form synapses with relay neurons but not interneurons. Stimulation of TRN terminals in dLGN leads to a frequency-dependent form of inhibition, with higher rates of stimulation leading to a greater suppression of spike firing. Thus, TRN inhibition appears more dynamic than previously recognized, having a graded rather than an all-or-none impact on thalamocortical transmission.
Online Sparse Subspace Clustering

This paper focuses on the sparse subspace clustering problem, and develops an online algorithmic solution to cluster data points on-the-fly, without revisiting the whole dataset. The strategy involves an online solution of a sparse representation (SR) problem to build a (sparse) dictionary of similarities where points in the same subspace are considered "similar," followed by a spectral clustering based on the obtained similarity matrix. When the SR cost is strongly convex, the online solution converges to within a neighborhood of the optimal time-varying batch solution. A dynamic regret analysis is performed when the SR cost is not strongly convex.
How Does Pre-Entry Experience Enhance Entrant Performance? Evidence From Learning Curves of New Banks

Extant theory holds that new entrants’ pre-entry experience is an important asset that enhances their post-entry performance. While the logic is compelling, empirical findings have been inconsistent. We argue that this gap results, in part, because the empirical literature tends to confound two distinct mechanisms. Pre-entry experience may act: (a) directly by increasing an entrant’s post-entry performance (silver spoon effect) and (b) indirectly by influencing the properties of new entrant learning post-entry (helping hand effect). This latter mechanism has received sparse attention in the literature. We build on prior work on learning curves to develop a theory of how pre-entry experience impacts the rate and asymptote of post-entry learning curves, and how context dissimilarity bounds the relationship. We test the theory using a longitudinal census of new entrants in U.S. commercial banking. In the absence of accounting for the indirect effect, our estimates show that pre-entry experience appears to be performance reducing for new entrants. We then estimate models in which we account for post-entry learning curves. We find strong support for the positive implications of pre-entry experience — it improves new entrant performance at entry by 12.5 percent via the direct effect, and increases an entrant’s post-entry experiential learning rate by 211 percent via the indirect effect.
Potential Effect of Low-Rise, Downcast Artificial Lights on Nocturnally Migrating Land Birds.

Artificial light at night (ALAN) on tall or upward-pointed lighting installations affects the flight behavior of night-migrating birds. We hypothesized that common low-rise lights pointing downward also affect the movement of nocturnal migrants. We predicted that birds in flight will react close to low-rise lights, and be attracted and grounded near light sources, with a stronger effect on juveniles during their autumn migration. We conducted a controlled longitudinal experiment with light-emitting diode floodlights and considered nearby structures that turn on lights at night. We analyzed 1501 high-resolution 3D nocturnal flight paths of free-flying migrants and diurnally captured 758-2009 birds around experimental lights during spring and autumn 2016, and spring 2017. We identified change points along flight paths where birds turned horizontally or vertically, and we considered these indicative of reactions. Flight paths with and without reactions were generally closer to our experimental site in spring than in autumn when the lights were on. Reactions were up to 40% more likely to occur in autumn than in spring depending on the threshold magnitude of turning angle. Reactions in spring were up to ∼60% more likely to occur at ∼35 m from the lights than at >1.5 km. In autumn, some vertical reactions were ∼40% more likely to occur at ∼50 m from the lights than at >2.2 km. Interactions between distance to lights and visibility or cloud cover were consistent with known effects of ALAN on nocturnal migrants. Under poor visibility, reactions were up to 50% more likely to occur farthest from structures in spring, but up to 60% more likely to occur closest to lights in autumn. Thus, the effects of ALAN on night-migrating land birds are not limited to bright lights pointing upward or lights on tall structures in urban areas. Diurnal capture rates of birds were not different when lights were on or off for either season. To our knowledge, this is the first study to show that low-rise lights pointing downward affect night-migrating birds. Although the interpreted reactions constitute subtle modifications in the linearity of flight paths, we discuss future work that could verify whether the protection of nocturnal migrants with lights-out programs would have greater impact if implemented beyond urban areas and include management of low-rise lights.
Applications to Partial Differential Equations

In our earlier work on the spring we dealt with either a single equation or a system of two equations depending on whether one or two point masses were involved. Systems containing an infinite number of discrete point masses are subject to an infinite system of ordinary differential equations. We shall now consider a system with a continuous mass distribution, which leads to a partial differential equation, with independent variables in time and space.
Velocity map imaging of O-atom products from UV photodissociation of the CH2OO Criegee intermediate.

UV excitation of jet-cooled CH2OO X1A′ to the excited B1A′ electronic states results in dissociation to two spin-allowed product channels: H2CO X1A1 + O 1D and H2CO a3A″ + O 3P. In this study, the higher energy H2CO a3A″ + O 3P channel is characterized by velocity map imaging and UV action spectroscopy, in both cases utilizing 2 + 1 resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization detection of O 3P products, which complements a prior experimental study on the lower energy H2CO X1A1 + O 1D channel [Lehman et al., J. Chem. Phys. 139, 141103 (2013)]. Anisotropic angular distributions indicative of rapid dissociation are obtained at 330 and 350 nm, along with broad and unstructured total kinetic energy distributions that provide insight into the internal excitation of the H2CO a3A″ co-fragment. A harmonic normal mode analysis points to significant vibrational excitation of the CH2 wag and C–O stretch modes of the H2CO a3A″ fragment upon dissociation. At each UV wavelength, the termination of the kinetic energy distribution reveals the energetic threshold for the H2CO a3A″ + O 3P product channel of ca. 76 kcal mol−1 (378 nm) and also establishes the dissociation energy from CH2OO X1A′ to H2CO X1A1 + O1D products of D0 ≤ 49.0 ± 0.3 kcal mol−1, which is in accord with prior theoretical studies. The threshold for the H2CO a3A″ + O 3P channel is also evident as a more rapid falloff on the long wavelength side of the O 3P action spectrum as compared to the previously reported UV absorption spectrum for jet-cooled CH2OO [Beames et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 134, 20045 (2012)]. Modeling suggests that the O 3P yield increases uniformly from 378 to 300 nm.
SU-E-T-754: Three-Dimensional Patient Modeling Using Photogrammetry for Collision Avoidance

Purpose: To evaluate photogrammetry for creating a three-dimensional patient model. Methods: A mannequin was configured on the couch of a CT scanner to simulate a patient setup using an indexed positioning device. A CT fiducial was placed on the indexed CT table-overlay at the reference index position. Two dimensional photogrammetry targets were placed on the table in known positions. A digital SLR camera was used to obtain 27 images from different positions around the CT table. The images were imported into a commercial photogrammetry package and a 3D model constructed. Each photogrammetry target was identified on 2 to 5 images. The CT DICOM metadata and the position of the CT fiducial were used to calculate the coordinates of the photogrammetry targets in the CT image frame of reference. The coordinates were transferred to the photogrammetry software to orient the 3D model. The mannequin setup was transferred to the treatment couch of a linear accelerator and positioned at isocenter using in-room lasers. The treatment couch coordinates were noted and compared with prediction. The collision free regions were measured over the full range of gantry and table motion and were compared with predictions obtained using a general purpose polygon interference algorithm. Results: The reconstructed 3D model consisted of 180000 triangles. The difference between the predicted and measured couch positions were 5 mm, 1 mm, and 1 mm for longitudinal, lateral, and vertical, respectively. The collision prediction tested 64620 gantry table combinations in 11.1 seconds. The accuracy was 96.5%, with false positive and negative results occurring at the boundaries of the collision space. Conclusion: Photogrammetry can be used as a tool for collision avoidance during treatment planning. The results indicate that a buffer zone is necessary to avoid false negatives at the boundary of the collision-free zone. Testing with human patients is underway. Research partially supported by a grant from Varian Medical Systems
Tetracarbon­ylbis(η5-cyclo­penta­dien­yl)bis(diphenyl­phosphine)dimolybdenum(Mo—Mo) hexane solvate

The title compound, [Mo2(C5H5)2(C12H11P)2(CO)4]·C6H14, is a centrosymmetric Mo complex in which two Mo atoms are connected by an Mo—Mo bond [3.2072 (12) A]. Each Mo atom is coordinated by an η5-cyclo­penta­dienyl ligand, two carbonyl ligands and a diphenyl­phosphine ligand in a piano-stool fashion.
Characterization of cytosolic calcium oscillations induced by phenylephrine and vasopressin in single fura-2-loaded hepatocytes.

Abstract Changes of cytosolic free Ca2+ [( Ca2+]i) in response to receptor activation were studied at the single cell level by using digital imaging fluorescence microscopy of fura-2-loaded primary cultured hepatocytes. In response to phenylephrine and vasopressin, individual hepatocytes displayed dose-dependent oscillations of [Ca2+]i similar to those observed in aequorin-injected hepatocytes by Woods et al. (Woods, N. M., Cuthbertson, K. S. R., and Cobbold, P. H. (1986) Nature 329, 719-721). With increasing agonist concentration, the frequency of oscillations increased and the latent period decreased. For a given cell, peak [Ca2+]i was independent of applied agonist concentration. However, there was considerable variation from cell to cell in the absolute value of peak [Ca2+]i. There was also marked intercellular heterogeneity in the latency, frequency, and overall pattern of the Ca2+ responses. Such asynchronous responses can be explained in part by the apparent differential agonist sensitivity of individual cells for latency and frequency. At high doses, phenylephrine maintained an oscillatory pattern, whereas vasopressin produced a complex mixture of spiking and sustained [Ca2+]i responses. Vasopressin and phenylephrine also displayed differently shaped [Ca2+]i oscillations at submaximal doses, due primarily to a slower rate of decay with vasopressin. Despite the large cell-cell variation in the patterns of [Ca2+]i oscillations, successive readditions of the same agonist elicited identical cell-specific patterns of oscillation. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+ the frequency but not the magnitude of [Ca2+]i oscillations was decreased. Buffering of [Ca2+]i by increasing the fura-2 load of single hepatocytes also decreased the frequency of oscillations without affecting the peak Ca2+ level. These data provide further support for the importance of frequency modulation in agonist-induced Ca2+ responses and suggest that Ca2+ itself plays an important role in regulating the frequency of [Ca2+]i oscillations. Furthermore, the data demonstrate a broad heterogeneity in hepatocyte [Ca2+]i oscillations which may underlie the nonoscillatory responses of cell populations.
Human Endothelial Cell Transport Bovine Extracellular Vesicles

MicroRNAs play essential roles in gene regulation; the majority of microRNAs in body fluids is encapsulated in extracellular vesicles (EVs), thereby conferring protection against degradation and a pathway for cellular transport by endocytosis. Our previous studies suggest that 1) humans absorb EV-encapsulated microRNAs from cow's milk, 2) milk microRNAs are delivered to peripheral tissues where they alter the expression of human genes, and 3) endogenous synthesis of microRNAs does not compensate for dietary microRNA depletion in mice. Ongoing studies suggest that EV-encapsulated microRNAs cross the intestinal mucosa by processes involving endocytosis and exocytosis. Here we tested the hypothesis that endothelial cells in blood vessels also transport milk EVs. Transport was assessed using labeled exosomes from bovine milk, i.e., the quantitatively most important fraction of EVs in milk, and human umbilical vessel endothelial cells (HUVEC). The uptake of exosomes was assessed at timed intervals and was line...
Persistent Fighting and Shifting Power

Three striking features about both interstate and civil war are (1) there are often periods of persistent fighting, (2) fighting commonly ends in negotiated settlements as well as in militarily decisive outcomes, and (3) fighting sometimes recurs. This article links these features to shifts in the distribution of power and to the fact that one of the functions of fighting is to forestall adverse shifts. The analysis centers on a simple model of state consolidation. The equilibrium displays these features: Fighting occurs when the distribution of power is shifting rapidly. The factions avoid fighting and cut deals when the distribution of power shifts slowly or is stable. Fighting resumes if the distribution of power again begins to shift rapidly. The analysis also shows that state consolidation can occur without fighting if the process is sufficiently slow. Fighting now rather than later can also reduce the total cost of fighting.
A cryogenic multichannel electronically scanned pressure module

Consideration is given to a cryogenic multichannel electronically scanned pressure (ESP) module developed and tested over an extended temperature span from -184 to +50 C and a pressure range of 0 to 5 psig. The ESP module consists of 32 pressure sensor dice, four analog 8 differential-input multiplexers, and an amplifier circuit, all of which are packaged in a physical volume of 2 x 1 x 5/8 in with 32 pressure and two reference ports. Maximum nonrepeatability is measured at 0.21 percent of full-scale output. The ESP modules have performed consistently well over 15 times over the above temperature range and continue to work without any sign of degradation. These sensors are also immune to repeated thermal shock tests over a temperature change of 220 C/sec.
EFFECTS OF CERTAIN AMINO ACIDS ON ANTHRANILATE PRODUCTION IN NEUROSPORA CRASSA

Soboren, Josephine (University of California, Los Angeles) and Joseph F. Nyc. Effects of certain amino acids on anthranilate production in Neurospora crassa. J. Bacteriol. 85:881-888. 1963.-The level of anthranilic acid produced in cultures of a tryptophanless mutant of Neurospora crassa strain C-83 was closely related to the growth response. A good growth response was attained only on supplements which greatly repressed the level of anthranilate accumulated. The improved growth response of strain C-83 to variable levels of tryptophan and to supplements of the amino acids phenylalanine, tyrosine, leucine, and methionine was correlated with a decreased anthranilate production. The inhibitory effect of these supplements on anthranilate production was ascribed to effects on the mechanisms which regulate the formation of anthranilic acid.
CD1a expression in psoriatic skin following treatment with propylthiouracil, an antithyroid thioureylene

The antithyroid thioureylenes, propylthiouracil (PTU) and methimazole (MMI), are effective in the treatment of patients with plaque psoriasis. The mechanism of action of the drugs in psoriasis is unknown. Since the drugs reduce circulating IL-12 levels in patients with Graves' hyperthyroidism, the effect of propylthiouracil on CD1a expression in psoriatic lesions was examined in biopsy samples of patients with plaque psoriasis. CD1a is a marker of differentiated skin antigen presenting cells (APC, Langerhans cells). Langerhans cells and skin monocyte/macrophages are the source of IL-12, a key cytokine involved in the events that lead to formation of the psoriatic plaque. Biopsy specimens were obtained from six patients with plaque psoriasis who were treated with 300 mg propylthiouracil (PTU) daily for three months. Clinical response to PTU as assessed by PASI scores, histological changes after treatment, and CD1a expression in lesional skin before and after treatment were studied. Despite significant improvement in clinical and histological parameters the expression of CD1a staining cells in the epidermis did not decline with propylthiouracil treatment. It appears that the beneficial effect of propylthiouracil in psoriasis is mediated by mechanisms other than by depletion of skin antigen-presenting cells.
The lemon illusion: seeing curvature where there is none

Curvature is a highly informative visual cue for shape perception and object recognition. We introduce a novel illusion—the Lemon Illusion—in which subtle illusory curvature is perceived along contour regions that are devoid of physical curvature. We offer several perceptual demonstrations and observations that lead us to conclude that the Lemon Illusion is an instance of a more general illusory curvature phenomenon, one in which the presence of contour curvature discontinuities lead to the erroneous extension of perceived curvature. We propose that this erroneous extension of perceived curvature results from the interaction of neural mechanisms that operate on spatially local contour curvature signals with higher-tier mechanisms that serve to establish more global representations of object shape. Our observations suggest that the Lemon Illusion stems from discontinuous curvature transitions between rectilinear and curved contour segments. However, the presence of curvature discontinuities is not sufficient to produce the Lemon Illusion, and the minimal conditions necessary to elicit this subtle and insidious illusion are difficult to pin down.
OESbathy version 1.0: a method for reconstructing ocean bathymetry with generalized continental shelf-slope-rise structures

Abstract. We present a method for reconstructing global ocean bathymetry that combines a standard plate cooling model for the oceanic lithosphere based on the age of the oceanic crust, global oceanic sediment thicknesses, plus generalized shelf-slope-rise structures calibrated at modern active and passive continental margins. Our motivation is to develop a methodology for reconstructing ocean bathymetry in the geologic past that includes heterogeneous continental margins in addition to abyssal ocean floor. First, the plate cooling model is applied to maps of ocean crustal age to calculate depth to basement. To the depth to basement we add an isostatically adjusted, multicomponent sediment layer constrained by sediment thickness in the modern oceans and marginal seas. A three-parameter continental shelf-slope-rise structure completes the bathymetry reconstruction, extending from the ocean crust to the coastlines. Parameters of the shelf-slope-rise structures at active and passive margins are determined from modern ocean bathymetry at locations where a complete history of seafloor spreading is preserved. This includes the coastal regions of the North, South, and central Atlantic, the Southern Ocean between Australia and Antarctica, and the Pacific Ocean off the west coast of South America. The final products are global maps at 0.1° × 0.1° resolution of depth to basement, ocean bathymetry with an isostatically adjusted multicomponent sediment layer, and ocean bathymetry with reconstructed continental shelf-slope-rise structures. Our reconstructed bathymetry agrees with the measured ETOPO1 bathymetry at most passive margins, including the east coast of North America, north coast of the Arabian Sea, and northeast and southeast coasts of South America. There is disagreement at margins with anomalous continental shelf-slope-rise structures, such as around the Arctic Ocean, the Falkland Islands, and Indonesia.
GSTM1 and GSTM5 Genetic Polymorphisms and Expression in Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

ABSTRACTPurpose: Previously, two cytosolic antioxidant enzymes, Glutathione S-transferase Mu 1 (GSTM1) and Mu 5 (GSTM5), were reduced in retinas with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This study compared genomic copy number variations (gCNV) of these two antioxidant enzymes in AMD versus controls.Methods: Genomic copy number (gCN) assays were performed using Taqman Gene Copy Number Assays (Applied Biosystems, Darmstadt, Germany) in technical quadruplicate for both GSTM1 and GSTM5. Peripheral leukocyte RNA levels were compared with controls in technical triplicates. Statistical comparisons were performed in SAS v9.2 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC).Results: A large percentage of patients in both AMD and age-matched control groups had no copies of GSTM1 (0/0). The mean gCN of GSTM1 was 1.40 (range 0–4) and 1.61 (range 0–5) for AMD and control, respectively (p = 0.29). A greater percentage of control patients had > 3 gCNs of GSTM1 compared with AMD, respectively (15.3% versus 3.0%, p = 0.004). The gCN of...