cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of interleukin-22 and interleukin-10 soluble receptor complexes.

Interleukin-22 (IL-22) is a cellular homolog of IL-10 that stimulates the production of acute-phase reactants. IL-22 and IL-10 require different ligand-specific receptor chains (IL-22R and IL-10R1) but share a second receptor chain (IL-10R2) to initiate cellular responses. The quaternary structures and the ability of IL-22 and IL-10 to engage soluble (s) IL-10R1, IL-22R, IL-10R2 receptor chains were analyzed using size exclusion chromatography and surface plasmon resonance techniques. In contrast to IL-10, which is a homodimer, IL-22 is a monomer in solution that forms a 1:1 interaction with sIL-22R. Kinetic binding data reveal sIL-22R and sIL-10R1 exhibit specific nanomolar binding constants for IL-22 (kon/koff = 14.9 nM) and a monomeric isomer of IL-10 (IL-10M1) (kon/koff = 0.7 nM), respectively. In contrast, IL-10R2 exhibits essentially no affinity for IL-22 (Keq ~ 1 mM) or IL-10M1 (Keq ~ 2 mM) alone but displays a substantial increase in affinity for the IL-10/sIL-10R1 (Keq ~ 350 μM) and IL-22/sIL-22R...
Distributionally robust monte carlo analysis of circuits: The truncation phenomenon

This paper addresses the probabilistic robustness of a stochastic RLC network. Motivated by manufacturing considerations, we consider a class of admissible probability distributions F for the circuit parameters and study the behavior of the expected filter gain. It is first demonstrated how the formal theory leads to the possibility that the probability distribution maximizing the expected filter gain may be counterintuitive in the sense that it is not a standard density function such as normal, uniform or impulsive. In this context, the so-called truncation phenomenon is described. Subsequently, it is shown that this phenomenon is more that a mathematical possibility. That is, we provide RLC circuit realizations for which the truncation phenomenon actually occurs. Moreover, it is seen that the number of computations to achieve the maximum expected filter gain can be quite large. Subsequently, we use such examples in the context of integrated circuits to hypothesize an unstructured co-dependent uncertainty model which appears to suggest a promising direction for future research. Using this model, we describe a method of hyper-rectangular truncations to achieve a maximum expected filter gain. In this new setting, the truncation pathology is more easily handled.
Three-Dimensional Oceanography and Acoustics

Oceanography governs the structure of the acoustic index of refraction via sound speed and density which in turn controls underwater sound propagation. The strong connection between acoustics and oceanography becomes increasingly apparent when mod-els of both are coupled in three and four dimensions. Acoustic fields, appropriately displayed reveal much of the oceanography while upper and lower limits to the necessary oceano-graphic resolution for meaningful acoustic prediction are also suggested by the coupling of these models. Furthermore, three-dimensional (3D) oceanographic complexity provides more opportunity than hindrance for extending the application of acoustics to an assortment of acoustics and oceanography problems.
Exergy, Energy, and Gas Flow Analysis of Hydrofractured Shale Gas Extraction

The objectives of this study are to (a) evaluate the exergy and energy demand for constructing a hydrofractured shale gas well and determine its typical exergy and energy returns on investment (ExROI and EROI), and (b) compute the gas flow and intrinsic exergy analysis in the shale gas matrix and created fractures. An exergy system analysis of construction of a typical U.S. shale gas well, which includes the processes and materials exergies (embodied exergy) for drilling, casing and cementing, and hydrofracturing (“fracking”), was conducted. A gas flow and intrinsic exergy numerical simulation and analysis in a gas-containing hydrofractured shale reservoir with its formed fractures was then performed, resulting in the time- and two-dimensional (2D) space-dependent pressure, velocity, and exergy loss fields in the matrix and fractures. The key results of the system analysis show that the total exergy consumption for constructing the typical hydrofractured shale gas well is 35.8 TJ, 49% of which is used for all the drilling needed for the well and casings and further 48% are used for the hydrofracturing. The embodied exergy of all construction materials is about 9.8% of the total exergy consumption. The ExROI for the typical range of shale gas wells in the U.S. was found to be 7.3–87.8. The embodied energy of manufactured materials is significantly larger than their exergy, so the total energy consumption is about 8% higher than the exergy consumption. The intrinsic exergy analysis showed, as expected, very slow (order of 10−9 m/s) gas flow velocities through the matrix, and consequently very small flow exergy losses. It clearly points to the desirability of exploring fracking methods that increase the number and length of effective fractures, and they increase well productivity with a relatively small flow exergy penalty.
Some Facts from the Theory of Proofs and Some Fictions from General Proof Theory

A working definition of the distinction intended in the title is this. Proof theory is principally interested in what is traditionally called the essence or, equivalently, ‘defining property’ of proofs, namely their being valid arguments. This property of validity, which — like most notions and questions of traditional philosophy — occurs to us at a very early stage of experience, is regarded as basic in proof theory. And general proof theory develops such refinements as the distinction between different kinds of validity, for example, logical or constructive validity (and others familiar from the foundational literature). In contrast, the theory of proofs questions the utility of these distinctions compared to taking for granted the validity at least of currently used principles. Instead, this theory studies such structural features as the length of proofs, and especially relations between proofs and other things, so to speak, the ‘role’ of proofs. With this different emphasis, the classifications needed in the theory of proofs are often demonstrably in conflict with the basic distinctions of proof theory, and not, as has sometimes been thought, refinements of the latter.
Design and Measurement Error Analysis of a Low-Friction, Lightweight Linear Series Elastic Actuator

Series elastic actuators (SEAs) have many benefits for force controlled robotic applications. Placing an elastic member in series with a rigid actuator output enables more-stable force control and the potential for energy storage while sacrificing position control bandwidth. This paper presents the design and measurement error analysis of a low-friction, lightweight linear SEA used in the Shipboard Autonomous Fire Fighting Robot (SAFFiR). The SAFFiR SEA pairs a stand-alone linear actuator with a configurable compliant member. Unlike most electric linear actuators, this actuator does not use a linear guide, which reduces friction and weight. Unlike other SEAs which measure the force by measuring the spring deflection, a tension and compression load cell is integrated into the design for accurate force measurements. The configurable compliant member is a titanium cantilever with manually adjustable length. The final SEA weighs 0.82[kg] with a maximum force of 1,000[N]. The configurable compliant mechanism has in a spring constant range of 145–512[kN/m]. Having no linear guide and incorporating the load cell into the universal joint both introduce measurement errors. The length error across a parallel ankle joint is less than 0.015[mm] and the force measurement error is less than 0.25% of the actual force. Finally, several changes are suggested for the next iteration of the SEA to improve its usability on future robots.© 2013 ASME
Keep in touch: The effects of imagined touch support on stress and exploration

Abstract Although social support buffers stress and helps individuals to embrace challenges (exploration), individuals often experience stressors when close others are not proximally available to provide support. The current research tested whether imagining supportive touch from a romantic partner promotes exploration and buffers stress better than imagining verbal support or control imagination tasks. Participants completed a 5-min imagined support manipulation prior to experiencing a physical stressor, the cold pressor pain task (Exp. 1) or social/performance stressors, the Trier Social Stress task (Exp. 2). In Experiment 1 , participants who imagined touch support experienced pain-buffering benefits compared to participants who imagined verbal support, and women who imagined touch support were more likely than women in other conditions to accept the challenge of a more difficult cold pressor task. In Experiment 2 , participants who imagined touch support were more buffered from the stress of the socially-evaluative tasks and viewed these tasks with more enthusiasm than participants in all other imagination conditions. Potential mechanisms and implications are discussed.
Isolating the Temperature Feedback Loop and Its Effects on Surface Temperature

AbstractClimate feedback processes are known to substantially amplify the surface warming response to an increase of greenhouse gases. When the forcing and feedbacks modify the temperature response they trigger temperature feedback loops that amplify the direct temperature changes due to the forcing and nontemperature feedbacks through the thermal–radiative coupling between the atmosphere and surface. This study introduces a new feedback-response analysis method that can isolate and quantify the effects of the temperature feedback loops of individual processes on surface temperature from their corresponding direct surface temperature responses.The authors analyze a 1% yr−1 increase of CO2 simulation of the NCAR CCSM4 at the time of CO2 doubling to illustrate the new method. The Planck sensitivity parameter, which indicates colder regions experience stronger surface temperature responses given the same change in surface energy flux, is the inherent factor that leads to polar warming amplification (PWA). Th...
CONFIDENCE INTERVALS FOR RIDGE REGRESSION PARAMETERS

This paper reviews various alternatives for constructing confidence intervals for ridge regression (RR) parameters, and illustrates them with an example. Among the newer alternatives are bootstrapping and those based on Stein’s (1981) unbiased estimate of the mean squared error (MSE) of a biased estimator of multivariate normal mean. A simulation study supports the validity of the confidence statements based on Stein’s model as modified here for the ridge regression problem. It yields confidence intervals which can be more useful and reliable than those based on other methods.
Municipal Forest Benefits and Costs in Five US Cities

Increasingly, city trees are viewed as a best management practice to control stormwater, an urban-heat-island mitigation measure for cleaner air, a CO 2 -redutlion option to offset emissions, and an alternative to costly new electric power plants. Measuring benefits that accrue from the community forest is the first step to altering forest structure in ways that will enhance future benefits. This article describes the structure, function, and value of street and park tree populations in Fort Collins, Colorado; Cheyenne, Wyoming; Bismarck, North Dakota; Berkeley, California; and Glendale, Arizona. Although these cities spent $13-65 annually per tree, benefits ranged from $31 to $89 per tree. For every dollar invested in management, benefits returned annually ranged from S1.37 to S3.09. Strategies each city can take to increase net benefits are presented.
Neutrophil-generated oxidative stress and protein damage in Staphylococcus aureus.

Staphylococcus aureus is a ubiquitous, versatile, and dangerous pathogen. It colonizes over 30% of the human population, and is one of the leading causes of death by an infectious agent. During S. aureus colonization and invasion, leukocytes are recruited to the site of infection. To combat S. aureus , leukocytes generate an arsenal of reactive species including superoxide, hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, and hypohalous acids that modify and inactivate cellular macromolecules, resulting in growth defects or death. When S. aureus colonization cannot be cleared by the immune system, antibiotic treatment is necessary and can be effective. Yet, this organism quickly gains resistance to each new antibiotic it encounters. Therefore, it is in the interest of human health to acquire a deeper understanding of how S. aureus evades killing by the immune system. Advances in this field will have implications for the design of future S. aureus treatments that complement and assist the host immune response. In that regard, this review focuses on how S. aureus avoids host-generated oxidative stress, and discusses the mechanisms used by S. aureus to survive oxidative damage including antioxidants, direct repair of damaged proteins, sensing oxidant stress, and transcriptional changes. This review will elucidate areas for studies to identify and validate future antimicrobial targets.
Paleoenvironmental Analysis and Ichnoentomological Synthesis

Paleoenvironmental inferences that can be extracted from insect trace fossils in paleosols range from simple to complex ones. The simple presence of an air-breather insect pupation chamber or nest indicates the subaerial exposure of the deposit and the recognition of a paleosol in a broad sense, and even when other pedogenic features cannot be recognized. However, many precautions are necessary to identify particularly simple trace fossils as produced by air-breather insects. The second simplest inference that can be obtained from insect trace fossils is the record of fluctuations of ancient water tables. Most soil-nesting insects prefer well drained soils, with low water tables, reducing possibilities of waterlogging. However, they have different strategies to face occasional waterlogging of soils, either by constructing mounds, using waterproof linings or by changing the emplacement of their nests or pupation chambers according to fluctuations of the water table. More complex paleoenvironmental analysis are exemplified by a high resolution ichnostratigraphy of Coprinisphaera accomplished at the Cenozoic locality of Gran Barranca (Argentina). Coprinisphaera ichnodiversity, size, phytolithic content and abundance along the sequence yielded data on evolution of dung beetle fauna, herbivore size and diet, and one of the oldes grass dominated habitats recorded. Other example developed in this chapter involves the contribution to paleoenvironment understanding of insect trace fossils occurring in five of the most important anthropoid localities in Africa. Finally, in a last synthesis is explained how and why insect trace fossils in paleosols achieve all the significance demonstrated along the book: they are useful to recognize post-Cretaceous paleosols, contribute significantly to the knowledge of the evolutionary history of insects, and that they are more than important tools for extracting paleoenvironmental inferences, for stratigraphy and in ichnofabric and ichnofacies analysis.
Determining the absolute photoelectron yield of LSO with APDs

Avalanche photodiodes (APDs) are used as readout devices for LSO and many other types of scintillating crystals. In order to optimize the signal from the APD to the front end readout electronics, it is necessary to maximize the photoelectron yield from the APD crystal combination. We have studied this optimization for the RatCAP detector, which uses a 32 element pixel array of 2times2times5 mm3 LSO crystals read out with a Hamamatsu S8550 APD array. The absolute light output of several small single LSO crystals was determined using a calibrated photomultiplier tube. These crystals were then used to measure the photoelectron yield with an APD. It was found that the measured yield was -22% lower than would be expected from the LSO light output combined with the overall light collection and APD quantum efficiencies. We believe this effect is due to uncertainty in the gain measurements and additional light collection factors associated with the APD. We have also found that the apparent gain of the APD, which is used in determining the photoelectron yield, is dependent on whether the input signal is visible light or X-rays and the internal structure of the APD.
Quantitative trait loci mapping of heat tolerance in broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) using genotyping-by-sequencing

Five quantitative trait loci and one epistatic interaction were associated with heat tolerance in a doubled haploid population of broccoli evaluated in three summer field trials. Predicted rising global temperatures due to climate change have generated a demand for crops that are resistant to yield and quality losses from heat stress. Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is a cool weather crop with high temperatures during production decreasing both head quality and yield. Breeding for heat tolerance in broccoli has potential to both expand viable production areas and extend the growing season but breeding efficiency is constrained by limited genetic information. A doubled haploid (DH) broccoli population segregating for heat tolerance was evaluated for head quality in three summer fields in Charleston, SC, USA. Multiple quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping of 1,423 single nucleotide polymorphisms developed through genotyping-by-sequencing identified five QTL and one positive epistatic interaction that explained 62.1% of variation in heat tolerance. The QTL identified here can be used to develop markers for marker-assisted selection and to increase our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying plant response to heat stress.
Minor Impact of Ligand Shell Steric Profile on Colloidal Nanocarbon Catalysis

National Science Foundation (U.S.). Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers (Program) (DMR – 1419807)
The Role of Acid Suppression in Barrett's Esophagus

In recent years, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have come under great scrutiny due to possible adverse, long-term side effects. At the same time, Barrett's esophagus, a premalignant condition in the esophagus, continues to be a disease whose course is thought to be improved by the use of PPIs. We review the impact of proton pump therapy on the esophagus and on Barrett's mucosa. In analyzing changes on a cellular level, we explore the effect of mixed gastric refluxate and the complex cascade that ensues with esophageal exposure of these contents. Because the incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma is on the rise, we explore other factors that may contribute to the progression of Barrett's from non-dysplastic mucosa to esophageal adenocarcinoma. By revisiting the need for adequate acid suppression in Barrett's and increasing our understanding of other possible factors that may have an effect of Barrett's progression, we hope to support our multifaceted approach to acid suppression in patients with Barrett's esophagus.
Insight into the Complexity of the i-Motif and G-Quadruplex DNA Structures Formed in the KRAS Promoter and Subsequent Drug-Induced Gene Repression

Activating KRAS mutations frequently occur in pancreatic, colorectal, and lung adenocarcinomas. While many attempts have been made to target oncogenic KRAS, no clinically useful therapies currently exist. Most efforts to target KRAS have focused on inhibiting the mutant protein; a less explored approach involves targeting KRAS at the transcriptional level. The promoter element of the KRAS gene contains a GC-rich nuclease hypersensitive site with three potential DNA secondary structure-forming regions. These are referred to as the Near-, Mid-, and Far-regions, on the basis of their proximity to the transcription start site. As a result of transcription-induced negative superhelicity, these regions can open up to form unique DNA secondary structures: G-quadruplexes on the G-rich strand and i-motifs on the C-rich strand. While the G-quadruplexes have been well characterized, the i-motifs have not been investigated as thoroughly. Here we show that the i-motif that forms in the C-rich Mid-region is the most st...
Chapter 8 – Anthropology and Odontology

Forensic anthropology plays a central role in the identification of people who are not identifiable by fingerprints or photographs: Nature has taken its course. Using their knowledge of human anatomy and variation, forensic anthropologists develop biological profiles of skeletal remains and look for individualizing traits in the hopes that the victim can be identified. They also assist other investigators, such as forensic odontologists and medical examiners, to help with the interpretation of taphonomic information and trauma.
Evolution and transition mechanisms of internal swirling flows with tangential entry

The characteristics and transition mechanisms of different states of swirling flow in a cylindrical chamber have been numerically investigated using the Galerkin finite element method. The effects of the Reynolds number and swirl level were examined, and a unified theory connecting different flow states was established. The development of each flow state is considered as a result of the interaction and competition between basic mechanisms: (1) the centrifugal effect, which drives an axisymmetric central recirculation zone (CRZ); (2) flow instabilities, which develop at the free shear layer and the central solid-body rotating flow; (3) the bouncing and restoring effects of the injected flow, which facilitate the convergence of flow on the centerline and the formation of bubble-type vortex breakdown; and (4) the damping effect of the end-induced flow, which suppresses the development of the instability waves. The results show that the CRZ, together with the free shear layer on its surface, composes the basi...
Repellent Effects of Insecticides Against Protaphorura fimata (Collembola: Poduromorpha: Onychiuridae)

Protaphorura fimata Gisin (Poduromorpha: Onychiuridae) is a serious pest of lettuce [Lactuca sativa L. (Asteraceae)] in the Salinas Valley of California. Because P. fimata is a subterranean springtail species adapted to soil environments, individuals are assumed to be able to sense and behaviorally avoid insecticide-treated soil, and this capacity could be used strategically to control P. fimata. A series of laboratory bioassays was conducted to examine the behavior of P. fimata with respect to insecticides via noncontact and contact assays. In the noncontact assay, significantly more P. fimata individuals were collected away from the insecticide source than closer to the source (P < 0.05) when clothianidin, flonicamid, bifenthrin, diamethoate, essential oils, extracts of C. subtsugae, methomyl, chlorpyrifos, zeta-cypermethrin, thiamethoxam, pyrethrins, extracts of Burkholderia spp., cyantraniliprole, and oxamyl were used as insecticides. In the contact assay, P. fimata individuals spent significantly less time on discs treated with spinetoram and lambda-cyhalothrin during each crossing than on flonicamid- and oxamyl-treated discs. P. fimata individuals changed direction more frequently while crossing discs when the discs were treated with azadirachtin, clothianidin, bifenthrin, thiamethoxam + chlorantraniliprole, chlorpyrifos, cyantraniliprole, and lambda-cyhalothrin than when they were treated with water. In another contact assay, the number of seedlings injured by P. fimata feeding was significantly lower when germinating seeds were enclosed in a barrier treated with clothianidin, chlopyrifos, pyrethrins, and cyantraniliprole than when they were enclosed in a spinosad-treated barrier. The implications of these data for P. fimata management in the Salinas Valley are discussed.
Physical Activity and Cancer Prevention

The diseases linked to sedentariness are major causes of morbidity and mortality in industrialized societies; thus the impact of sedentariness on public health is large. Significant health benefits are achievable with moderate amounts of physical activity. To substantially reduce the public health burden of disease due to sedentariness, the population distribution of physical activity must be shifted upwards. A “high-risk” strategy that focuses only on the most inactive tail of the distribution will not have a large public health impact. Physical activity has proved difficult to modify on a large scale by using individually-focused approaches to behavior change. Environmental and policy approaches to increasing physical activity across the population include efforts in increase physical activity within schools and workplaces, offering incentives for physically-active commuting, providing safe paths/routes for bicyclists and walkers and giving priority to such persons over auto drivers, and opening community venues such as malls, school, etc. for physical activity programs.
Constitutive Modeling of Electrothermal Properties in Polar Dielectric Materials and Thin Films

A thermodynamic methodology is used to quantify the influence of temperature, field strength, phase change characteristics, misfit strain and thermal stresses on the electrocaloric properties of thin film ferroelectric materials. This methodology provides insights concerning how the composition and orientation of the thin film material, the choice of substrate, the deposition/annealing temperature, and the electrode configuration can be used to optimize electrocaloric properties for particular applications.
WFIRST low order wavefront sensing and control dynamic testbed performance under the flight like photon flux

To maintain the required performance for the WFIRST Coronagraph Instrument (CGI) in a realistic space environment, a Low Order Wavefront Sensing and Control (LOWFS/C) subsystem is necessary. The WFIRST CGI LOWFS/C subsystem will use the Zernike wavefront sensor, which has a phase-shifting disk combined with the coronagraph’s focal plane mask, to sense the low-order wavefront drift and line-of-sight (LoS) error using the rejected starlight. The dynamic tests on JPL’s Occulting Mask Coronagraph (OMC) Testbed have demonstrated that LOWFS/C can maintain coronagraph contrast to better than 10-8 in presence of WFIRST-like line of sight and low order wavefront disturbances in both Shaped Pupil Coronagraph (SPC) and Hybrid Lyot Coronagraph (HLC) modes. However, the previous dynamic tests have been done using a bright source with photon flux equivalent to stellar magnitude of MV = -3.5. The LOWFS/C technology development on the OMC testbed has since then concentrated in evaluating and improving the LOWFS/C performance under the realistic photon flux that is equivalent to WFIRST Coronagraph target stars. Our recent testbed tests have demonstrated that the LOWFS/C can work cohesively with the stellar light suppression wavefront control, which brings broad band coronagraph contrast from ~1x10-6 to 6x10-9, while LOWF/C is simultaneously suppressing the WFIRST like LoS and low order wavefront drift disturbances on a source that photon flux is equivalent to a MV = 2 star. This lab demonstration mimics the CGI initial dark hole establish process on a bright reference star. We have also demonstrated on the testbed that LOWFS/C can maintain the coronagraph contrast by suppressing the WFIRST like line-of-sight disturbances on a fainter MV = 5 star. This mimics scenario of CGI science target observations. In this paper we will present the recent dynamic testbed performance results of LOWFS/C LoS loops and low order wavefront error correction loop on the flight like photon flux.
Challenges in Realizing a Chronic High-Resolution Retinal Prosthesis

Electrical stimulation has been proposed by several research works as a means of restoring vision in blind patients whose vision is impaired due to retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). RP affects the rods (used in night vision) first and then the cones (used in ambient daylight levels). AMD results from abnormal aging of the retinal pigment epithelium and retina. Persons with AMD will start to have distorted vision and eventually lose most of the vision in the central 30 . RP is a collective name for a number of genetic defects that result in photoreceptor loss. In both diseases, the vision is impaired due to the damage to the photoreceptors that convert photons to neural signals [1]. Post-mortem evaluations of retina with RP or AMD have shown that a large number of cells remain healthy in the inner retina compared to the outer retina [2]. Further, electrical stimulation of humans with RP and AMD results in the perception of light; so the neural cells can be activated, providing the hope of restoring lost vision in blind persons [3]. A chronic implant with 16 electrode sites on the retina in three blind patients has yielded promising results [4]. After being implanted with the prosthetic device, the patients were able to detect motion of a white bar (up, down, left, or right), detect a rectangular object, count objects, discriminate the orientation of two white bars in an ‘L’ configuration as to where the corner of the L was positioned, and discriminate between a dessert plate, a coffee cup, and a plastic knife [5]. The success rate of these simple visual tasks differed between subjects and the difference is attributed possibly to the age and the number of years of blindness. The results of acute and chronic studies have encouraged several research and development efforts for realizing chronically implantable, high-resolution retinal prostheses [6]. One implementation of such a retinal prosthesis is shown in Figure 7.1. An external camera, which preferably can be worn on the glasses, captures the image in the field of vision of the patient. This image is processed through
The Ileal Pouch for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

Abstract Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) results from a mutation in the APC gene, with subsequent development of multiple adenomatous polyps in the small intestine and colorectum. Left untreated, patients with FAP will develop colorectal cancer early in life, and prophylactic surgery is critical to limit cancer risk. Available surgical options include total abdominal colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis, and total proctocolectomy with or without an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. Choice and timing depend on phenotype as well as genotype characteristics of the disease. Patient selection and appropriate surveillance are important to limit cancer risk. Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis provides long-term acceptable function and quality of life for patients with FAP.
Progressive drought alters architectural and anatomical traits of rice roots

Root architectural and anatomical phenotypes are important for adaptation to drought. Many rice-growing regions face increasing water scarcity. This study describes drought responses of 11 Egyptian rice cultivars with emphasis on plastic root responses that may enhance drought adaptation. Eleven Egyptian rice cultivars were phenotyped for root architectural and anatomical traits after 6 weeks growth in soil mesocosms under well-watered conditions. Four of these cultivars were more intensively phenotyped under progressive drought stress in mesocosms, using a system where more moisture was available at depth than near the surface. In response to drought stress, all cultivars significantly reduced nodal root number while increasing large lateral root branching density and total lateral root length in the deepest portions of the mesocosm, where moisture was available. Nodal root cross-sectional area, but not stele area, was reduced by drought stress, especially in the basal segments of the root, and the number of late metaxylem vessels was reduced in only one cultivar. Alterations in deposition of lignin were detected by UV illumination from laser ablation tomography, enhanced by digital staining, and confirmed with standard histochemical methods. In well-watered plants, the sclerenchyma and endodermis were heavily lignified, and lignin was also visible throughout the epidermis and cortex. Under drought stress, very little lignin was detected in the outer cell layers and none in the cortex of nodal roots, but lignin deposition was enhanced in the stele. Root anatomical phenes, including cross-section area and metaxylem vessel number and lignin deposition varied dramatically along large lateral root axes under drought stress, with increasing diameter and less lignification of the stele in successive samples taken from the base to the root apex. Root architectural and anatomical traits varied significantly among a set of Egyptian cultivars. Most traits were plastic, i.e. changed significantly with drought treatment, and, in many cases, plasticity was cultivar-dependent. These phenotypic alterations may function to enhance water uptake efficiency. Increased large lateral root branching in the deep soil should maintain water acquisition, while water transport during drought should be secured with a more extensively lignified stele.
Differentially sensitive neuronal subpopulations in the central nervous system and the formation of hindbrain heterotopias in ethanol-exposed zebrafish.

Background A cardinal feature of prenatal ethanol exposure is CNS damage, resulting in a continuum of neurological and behavioral impairments that are described by the term fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). FASDs are variable and depend on several factors, including the amount, timing, and duration of prenatal ethanol exposure. To enhance interventions for CNS dysfunction, it is necessary to identify ethanol-sensitive neuronal populations and expand the understanding of factors that modify ethanol teratogenesis. Methods To investigate the susceptibility of different neuronal subtypes, we exposed transgenic zebrafish (Danio rerio) to several ethanol concentrations (0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0%), at different hours post fertilization (hpf; 0, 6, or 24 hpf), for various durations (0-24, 0-48, 4-24, 6-24, 6-48,or 24-48 hpf). Following exposure, embryo survival rates were determined, and CNS neurogenesis, differentiation, and patterning were assessed. Results Embryo survival rates decrease as ethanol concentrations increase and drastically decline when exposed from 0-24 hpf compared to 4-24 hpf. Abnormal tangential migration of facial motor neurons is observed in isl1:gfp embryos exposed to ethanol concentrations as low as 0.25%, and the formation of IVth ventricle heterotopias are revealed by embryos exposed to ≥1.0% ethanol. Whereas, expression of olig2:dsred and ptf1a:gfp in the cerebellum and spinal cord are largely unaffected. While levels of etv4 mRNA are overtly resistant to ethanol, we observe significant reductions in ptch2 mRNA levels. Conclusions These data show differentially sensitive CNS neuron subpopulations with susceptibility to low levels of ethanol. In addition, these data reveal the formation of ethanol-induced hindbrain heterotopias.
Immunoregulatory Potential of Exosomes Derived from Cancer Stem Cells

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are malignancies that originate in the mucosal lining of the upper aerodigestive tract. Despite advances in therapeutic interventions, survival rates among HNSCC patients have remained static for years. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are tumor-initiating cells that are highly resistant to treatment, and are hypothesized to contribute to a significant fraction of tumor recurrences. Consequently, further investigations of how CSCs mediate recurrence may provide insights into novel druggable targets. A key element of recurrence involves the tumor's ability to evade immunosurveillance. Recent published reports suggest that CSCs possess immunosuppressive properties, however, the underlying mechanism have yet to be fully elucidated. To date, most groups have focused on the role of CSC-derived secretory proteins, such as cytokines and growth factors. Here, we review the established immunoregulatory role of exosomes derived from mixed tumor cell populations, and propose further study of CSC-derived exosomes may be warranted. Such studies may yield novel insights into new druggable targets, or lay the foundation for future exosome-based diagnostics.
Does GINI respond to income volatility in an asymmetric manner? Evidence from 41 countries

Abstract Previous studies that assessed the impact of income volatility (as a measure of economic uncertainty) on income inequality relied upon either cross-sectional data or panel data, mostly due to the lack of sufficient time-series observations. Now that enough time-series observations are available for many countries, we revisit the issue and assess the possible asymmetric effects of income volatility on income inequality in each of the 41 countries. We find short-run asymmetric effects in almost all countries, short-run impact asymmetric effects in 20 countries, and long-run asymmetric effects in 21 countries. There was much less support when we engaged only in symmetric analysis.
GACAL: Conjecture-Based Verification

GACAL verifies C programs by searching over the space of possible invariants, using traces of the input program to identify potential invariants. GACAL uses the ACL2s theorem prover to verify these potential invariants, using an interface provided by ACL2s for connecting with external tools. GACAL iteratively searches for and proves invariants of increasing complexity until the program is verified.
Do differences in the microbiome explain early onset in colon cancer

e16070Background: Intestinal dysbiosis has been hypothesized as a possible etiology of the increasing incidence of early-onset colon cancer (EO-CC). Here, we compare the microbiome signature in non...
Low Body Mass Index Is a Predictor for Mortality and Increased Length of Stay Following Total Joint Arthroplasty

Abstract Background Malnutrition is a devastating condition which disproportionally affects the elderly population. Malnutrition furthers the pre-existing elevated risk for osteoarthritis in this population, thus exacerbating joint damage in patients and furthering the need for total joint arthroplasty (TJA). A marker for malnutrition is a low body mass index (BMI). The purpose of this study is to investigate whether low BMI status increased the risk for 2-year mortality or reoperation, 90-day readmission, or extended length of stay (LOS) following TJA. Methods A retrospective study was performed using the Partners Arthroplasty Registry which contains data from 2016 to 2019. The registry was queried for primary total hip and primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients that had a minimum of 2-years follow-up data. Demographic, surgical, and clinical outcome variables were obtained from these patients. The association between underweight BMI and objective outcomes of reoperation, 90-day readmission, mortality, and LOS was evaluated by univariate analysis followed by multiple logistic and linear regression analyses. Results The final cohort used for analysis consisted of 4802 TJA cases. After accounting for potential confounders, underweight BMI was found to be independently associated with increased risk of mortality within 2 years following TJA (odds ratio 8.77) (95% confidence interval 2.14-32.0) and increased LOS of 0.44 days (95% confidence interval 0.02-0.86). Conclusion Our findings demonstrate that TJA patients with an underweight BMI experience an 8 times increased risk of 2-year mortality and an increased LOS of 0.44 days. Orthopedic surgeons should consider nutritional consultation and medical optimization in these high-risk patients prior to surgery.
The Last Arab Siege of Constantinople (717–718): A Neglected Source

Three related synaxaria give an account of the Arab siege of 717–718, not addressed in modern studies of the campaign, that shows connections with other literary and historical traditions and provides several details not reported elsewhere.
Abstract 362: Differential Effect of the Prehospital Traumatic Brain Injury Guidelines on Survival in Isolated and Multisystem Traumatic Brain Injury

Introduction: The Prehospital TBI Guidelines (PTGs) are intended for both isolated and multisystem TBI (ITBI/MTBI). However, uncontrolled hemorrhage and potential detrimental effects of fluid resus...
The interplay between renewable portfolio standards and voluntary green power markets in the United States

Abstract Utility voluntary green power programs that allow energy consumers to pay a premium for electricity generated from renewable energy sources have gained great momentum worldwide in recent years. While there is growing literature examining customer behaviors related to green power purchases, limited work has been done to systematically evaluate the efficacy of voluntary green power programs implemented in conjunction with government-led renewable energy policies. In this research, we construct an innovative panel dataset for 49 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. from 2001 to 2013, with the goal to understand factors influencing total sales and customers of voluntary green power programs. Hybrid random effects regression models are estimated to investigate the impact of state renewable portfolio standards (RPSs) on the performance of voluntary green power markets. We find that for a given state, an increase in RPS policy stringency by one unit would lead to a reduction of green power program customer enrollment by 12.37%, and a reduction in green power program sales by 12.98%. Our results suggest that the competing effect is dominant between the voluntary green power market and the renewable energy regulatory regime: state RPSs tend to crowd out cheap renewable-sourced electricity that is available for sale through utility green power programs.
To cut or not to cut? A case report on pediatric intervertebral disc calcification.

Background Intervertebral disc calcification (IVDC) is a rare cause of acute spinal pain in pediatric patients. The most common symptom is back or neck pain, but muscle spasm, muscle weakness, and sensory loss also occur. Many patients have an alarming presentation and radiological findings concerning for spinal cord compression. Case description A 10-year-old female presented with 2 weeks of worsening back pain and restricted neck flexion with no history of preceding trauma. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed T4/5 and T5/6 vertebral disc calcification and posterior herniation causing thoracic spinal cord compression. Despite concerning imaging findings, we decided to manage this patient conservatively with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, leading to the improvement of symptoms within 9 days, and resolution of all pain within 1 month after hospital discharge. At 6 months follow-up, MRI showed complete resolution of calcification within the spinal canal. Conclusion This case report emphasizes IVDC as an important differential diagnosis of pediatric disc disease that does not require surgical intervention. X-ray imaging with PA and lateral views is an adequate screening for these patients. Majority of cases resolve within 6 months with conservative therapy.
Ethoxylation

The translation of the potentially hazardous, highly exothermic alkoxylation reaction to the rapid, safe and completely reliable industrial technology that it is today has been a noteworthy development. Commercially, the reactions of ethylene oxide with fatty acids are conducted in the presence of alkaline catalysts at temperatures above 100 C. The reaction proceeds in two steps. The first step is relatively slow and the product is predominantly ethylene glycol monoester. The second step occurs after approximately one mole ethylene oxide is reacted and all of the fatty acid is consumed. An increase in the ethylene oxide addition rate is observed, and polyethylene glycol esters are formed. Rapid transesterification also occurs, and the molar proportions of monoester, diester, and free polyol in the product approaches those predicted by the equilibrium assuming random esterification of the polyethylene glycol hydroxyl groups. The composition of polyoxyethylated fatty acids is similar to that obtained by the direct esterification of fatty acid with polyethylene glycol. The distribution of the ethylene oxide chain lengths in the polyethylene glycol portion of the product can be approximated assuming random addition of the epoxide.
The temperatures of white dwarfs in accreting binaries

Long-term observations of the dwarf nova WZ Sge with an outburst recurrence time of 33 years are studied. The results indicate that the UV flux reached an equilibrium value at about the end of 1986; this means that the UV flux continued to decrease for 8 years after outburst. If the underlying dwarf has provided a dominant amount of the UV flux since the disk reached quiescence, then the outer layers of the white dwarf cooled by several thousand degrees. The indications are that a 13,500 K + or - 500 K white dwarf contributing most of the UV flux is consistent with the observed parameters of WZ Sge; however, there must be some contribution from the hot disk or a larger emitting area.
Quantification of Th1 and Th17 Cells with Intracellular Staining Following PMA/Ionomycin Stimulation

Cytokine-producing cells are at the center of the adaptive immune responses, and quantifying these cells is an important aspect to build understanding of the immune response. In particular, Th1 and Th17 cells have been implicated in the pathogenesis of such diseases as inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Quantification of Th1 and Th17 cells can provide important information in research of these diseases and other Th1- and Th17-mediated immune disorders. In vitro stimulation of cells followed by surface and intracellular staining, presented here, has the advantage of detecting the cytokines directly instead of relying exclusively on surrogate surface markers which, although showing enrichment for the effector T cells, are not specific markers for the cytokine-producing cells.
Gielen, Uwe P

Uwe Gielen was born on August 15, 1940, in Berlin, Germany, to Ursula and Alfred Gielen, a housewife and civil servant, respectively. Following the destruction of their home in a bombing raid in the early 1940s, the family first relocated to the alpine farming village of Gailenberg, Bavaria, and in 1948 to the town of Lindau. Keywords: cross-cultural psychology; family therapy; international psychology; morality
The persistence of outmoded contraceptive regimes: The cases of Mexico and Brazil

This paper illustrates the persistence of outmoded contraceptive regimes with experiences drawn from Mexico and Brazil. It is noted that these countries have experienced substantial declines in fertility but that they have had widely different experiences in the realm of population policy. Mexico illustrates how government policies and styles of implementing them may outlive the conditions for which they were originally designed. Brazil shows how far more laissez-faire approaches can also yield perverse unwanted outcomes. Overall it is highlighted that the patterns of contraceptive delivery and practice that emerged in rural Mexico and in Brazil were strongly influenced by circumstances that were present in the early phases of the respective fertility transitions but that have long since disappeared. In the existing circumstances these patterns are highly problematic well entrenched and irreversible. It is suggested that this dynamic is consistent with and driven by the wayward logic of path dependence.
A Review of “Ideas that Matter: The Concepts that Shape the 21st Century”

Ideas That Matter is premised on the belief that ideas make a difference, that “Ideas are the cogs that drive history onward” (viii). The author has no intention of prescribing what readers should ...