cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A tale of two planners: Modular robotic planning with LDP

LDP (Locally Distributed Predicates) is a distributed, high-level language for programming modular reconfigurable robot systems (MRRs). In this paper we present the implementation of two motion-planning algorithms in LDP, and analyze both their performance and ease of implementation. We present multiple variations of one planner, including a novel resource allocation algorithm. We then draw conclusions about both the utility of the motion-planning algorithms and the suitability of LDP to the problem space. Our experiments suggest that metamodule-based planning approaches have a cost in time and/or energy terms, but that the cost can be worth paying in exchange for the additional generality and separation-of-concerns offered by these techniques. The particular tradeoff for a given system will depend upon its goals and the details of the underlying modules.
Genomic and bioinformatic profiling of mutational neoepitopes reveals new rules to predict anticancer immunogenicity

The mutational repertoire of cancers creates the neoepitopes that make cancers immunogenic. Here, we introduce two novel tools that identify, with relatively high accuracy, the small proportion of neoepitopes (among the hundreds of potential neoepitopes) that protect the host through an antitumor T cell response. The two tools consist of (a) the numerical difference in NetMHC scores between the mutated sequences and their unmutated counterparts, termed the differential agretopic index, and (b) the conformational stability of the MHC I–peptide interaction. Mechanistically, these tools identify neoepitopes that are mutated to create new anchor residues for MHC binding, and render the overall peptide more rigid. Surprisingly, the protective neoepitopes identified here elicit CD8-dependent immunity, even though their affinity for Kd is orders of magnitude lower than the 500-nM threshold considered reasonable for such interactions. These results greatly expand the universe of target cancer antigens and identify new tools for human cancer immunotherapy.
A Reactive, Radical Approach to Engaged Scholarship.

While exploring the current challenges facing academic institutions and the needs of their scholars to make their work relevant in the lives of university constituents, the author advocates for a reactive and radical approach to engaged scholarship by outlining an 8-step process that considers the importance of transformation, immediacy, and relevance in academic research in the field of human service.
Enhancement of Angiotensinogen Expression in Angiotensin II–Dependent Hypertension

Chronic infusion of angiotensin (Ang) II leads to the development of hypertension and enhances intrarenal Ang II content to levels greater than can be explained from the circulating concentrations of the peptide. We previously reported that renal angiotensinogen (Ao) mRNA is enhanced in Ang II-dependent hypertension and may contribute to augmented intrarenal Ang II levels, but the Ao protein levels were not significantly increased. Because a high-salt diet (H/S) has been shown to suppress renal expression of Ao mRNA, we examined the effects of chronic Ang II infusion on kidney and liver Ao mRNA and protein levels in male Sprague-Dawley rats (n=12) maintained on an 8% salt diet. Ang II was administered via osmotic minipumps (40 ng/min) to 1 group (n=6) while the remaining rats were sham-operated. A H/S diet alone did not alter systolic blood pressure in sham animals (109+/-6 mm Hg at day 12); however, Ang II infusions to the H/S rats significantly increased systolic blood pressure (167+/-7 at day 12) and intrarenal Ang II content (459+/-107 fmol/g versus 270+/-42) despite a marked suppression of plasma renin activity (0.9+/-0.2 ng Ang I. mL(-1). h(-1) versus 2.8+/-1.3). Ang II infusions significantly increased kidney Ao mRNA compared with the H/S diet alone by 1.9+/-0.1-fold. Western blot analysis of kidney protein extracts showed that the Ang II-infused rats had increased kidney Ao protein levels compared with the H/S diet alone (1.9+/-0.1-fold). Liver Ao mRNA and protein and plasma Ao protein were also significantly increased by Ang II infusions. These data demonstrate the effects of Ang II infusion to stimulate Ao mRNA and protein. Thus, the augmented intrarenal Ang II in Ang II-dependent hypertension may result, in part, by a positive amplification mechanism to activate renal expression of AO:
Chemically modifiable fluorinated copolymer nanoparticles for 19F-MRI contrast enhancement

Recently there has been interest in developing imaging contrast media for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that contain biologically rare, magnetically active nuclei such as fluorine. In principle, fluorinated contrast agents can be used to generate highly selective 19F magnetic resonance images that can be superimposed over complimentary 1H magnetic resonance images to provide an anatomical context for the fluorinated contrast agent. Additionally, nanoparticles can be made to target various pathological sites via active and passive targeting mechanisms. In this study, fluorinated nanoparticles were produced using a free radical polymerization of vinyl formamide monomers with two different fluorinated monomers. The nanoparticles showed a clear, single 19F-NMR signal. Additionally, surface amide groups were hydrolyzed to primary amines to yield additional surface reactivity. Fluorinated nanoparticles produced using a free-radial polymerization method yield a new nanoparticle for 19F-MRI applications with potential for facile functionalization. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Proteome folding kinetics is limited by protein halflife

How heterogeneous are proteome folding timescales and what physical principles, if any, dictate its limits? We answer this by predicting copy number weighted folding speed distribution – using the native topology – for E.coli and Yeast proteome. E.coli and Yeast proteomes yield very similar distributions with average folding times of 100 milliseconds and 170 milliseconds, respectively. The topology-based folding time distribution is well described by a diffusion-drift mutation model on a flat-fitness landscape in free energy barrier between two boundaries: i) the lowest barrier height determined by the upper limit of folding speed and ii) the highest barrier height governed by the lower speed limit of folding. While the fastest time scale of the distribution is near the experimentally measured speed limit of 1 microsecond (typical of barrier-less folders), we find the slowest folding time to be around seconds (8 seconds for Yeast distribution), approximately an order of magnitude less than the fastest halflife (approximately 2 minutes) in the Yeast proteome. This separation of timescale implies even the fastest degrading protein will have moderately high (96%) probability of folding before degradation. The overall agreement with the flat-fitness landscape model further hints that proteome folding times did not undergo additional major selection pressures – to make proteins fold faster – other than the primary requirement to “sufficiently beat the clock” against its lifetime. Direct comparison between the predicted folding time and experimentally measured halflife further shows 99% of the proteome have a folding time less than their corresponding lifetime. These two findings together suggest that proteome folding kinetics may be bounded by protein halflife.
Conflict between the sexes: strategic interference and the evocation of anger and upset

Advances an evolution-based model of strategic conflict between men and women. Conflict is predicted to occur whenever the reproductive strategy adopted by one sex interferes with that adopted by the opposite sex. Three empirical studies tested hypotheses based on this model. Study 1 (N = 528) examined sex differences in sources of anger and upset (e.g., about sexual aggressiveness or withholding) among 2 samples of Ss differing in age and martial status. Study 2 (N = 60) assessed the perceived magnitude of upset each sex would experience when confronted by each source. Study 3 (N = 214) tested predictions within married couples about sex differences in sources of marital and sexual dissatisfaction. These studies provide modest support for the strategic conflict model and implicate the negative emotions of anger and upset as proximate mechanisms that alert men and women to strategic interference. The diversity of upset elicitors discovered here, such as being condescending, possessive, neglecting, abusive, inconsiderate, moody, and self-centered, point to the limitations of this evolutionary model and the need to develop more comprehensive models of conflict between the sexes.
The School Nurse's Role in Vision Screening for the Difficult-to-Test Student.

This article discusses the importance of providing vision screening services to students who are difficult-to-test and describes strategies for providing such services. Included in the discussion is an overview of various instruments that may be used to assess visual acuity. One of the instruments, the Parsons Visual Acuity Test, is described in detail as a tool for assessing visual acuity of the difficult-to-test. In addition, a discussion is presented which emphasizes the importance of providing follow-up services to those children who are referred for professional eye examinations. The authors delineate the vital role of the school nurse in assisting the difficult-to-test students to gain necessary vision care services through screening, referral, obtaining appropriate treatment and providing follow-up services.
Phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate: tool of choice for class I PI 3-kinases

Class I PI 3-kinases signal by producing the signaling lipid phosphatidylinositol(3,4,5) trisphosphate, which in turn acts by recruiting downstream effectors that contain specific lipid-binding domains. The class I PI 3-kinases comprise four distinct catalytic subunits linked to one of seven different regulatory subunits. All the class I PI 3-kinases produce the same signaling lipid, PIP3, and the different isoforms have overlapping expression patterns and are coupled to overlapping sets of upstream activators. Nonetheless, studies in cultured cells and in animals have demonstrated that the different isoforms are coupled to distinct ranges of downstream responses. This review focuses on the mechanisms by which the production of a common product, PIP3, can produce isoform-specific signaling by PI 3-kinases.
Intrinsic connectivity of neural networks in the awake rabbit

The way in which the brain is functionally connected into different networks has emerged as an important research topic in order to understand normal neural processing and signaling. Since some experimental manipulations are difficult or unethical to perform in humans, animal models are better suited to investigate this topic. Rabbits are a species that can undergo MRI scanning in an awake and conscious state with minimal preparation and habituation. In this study, we characterized the intrinsic functional networks of the resting New Zealand White rabbit brain using BOLD fMRI data. Group independent component analysis revealed seven networks similar to those previously found in humans, non-human primates and/or rodents including the hippocampus, default mode, cerebellum, thalamus, and visual, somatosensory, and parietal cortices. For the first time, the intrinsic functional networks of the resting rabbit brain have been elucidated demonstrating the rabbit's applicability as a translational animal model. Without the confounding effects of anesthetics or sedatives, future experiments may employ rabbits to understand changes in neural connectivity and brain functioning as a result of experimental manipulation (e.g., temporary or permanent network disruption, learning-related changes, and drug administration).
Introduction to Lie Groups

Roughly speaking, a Lie group is a “group” which is also a “manifold”. Of course, to make sense of this definition, we must explain these two basic concepts and how they can be related. Groups arise as an algebraic abstraction of the notion of symmetry; an important example is the group of rotations in the plane or three-dimensional space. Manifolds, which form the fundamental objects in the field of differential geometry, generalize the familiar concepts of curves and surfaces in three-dimensional space. In general, a manifold is a space that locally looks like Euclidean space, but whose global character might be quite different. The conjunction of these two seemingly disparate mathematical ideas combines, and significantly extends, both the algebraic methods of group theory and the multi-variable calculus used in analytic geometry. This resulting theory, particularly the powerful infinitesimal techniques, can then be applied to a wide range of physical and mathematical problems.
Di­aqua­bis­(2-ethyl-5-methyl­imidazole-4-sulfonato-κ2N3,O)nickel(II) dihydrate

In the title complex, [Ni(C6H9N2O3S)2(H2O)2]·2H2O, the NiII atom lies on an inversion center and is chelated by N and O atoms of two symmetry-equivalent imidazole­sulfonate ligands in the basal plane, and two water O atoms in axial positions in an overall octa­hedral configuration. The crystal structure displays O—H⋯O and N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, which connect the components into an extended three-dimensional network.
National, Subnational and International Politics: Environmental Regime-Building in the Caspian Sea

This chapter addresses the linkage between Caspian regional politics and environmental management. In particular, explore the domestic and international political requirements involved in achieving a strong legal and regulatory regime to promote sustainable development. Domestically, this includes the nature of central institutions and the structure of incentives facing the decision-making elite, as well as the importance of local politics — both as an input into the policy process (especially in Russia and Kazakhstan) and as a crucial factor affecting implementation. Internationally, it includes the geopolitical implications of resource degradation and the pivotal role played by outside powers. Along the way, this chapter highlights the significance of the regime-building efforts undertaken by the Caspian Environment Programme. In addition to evaluating the potential of this program, I also discuss the importance of political factors in determining its ultimate success or failure.
Neoplasms of the bovine gastrointestinal tract.

Neoplasms of the bovine gastrointestinal tract are rare, in comparison with other species. The most common neoplasms described include papilloma, fibropapilloma, fibroma, and squamous cell carcinoma of the forestomachs; lymphosarcoma of the abomasum; adenoma/adenocarcinoma of the small intestine; and adenoma/fibroma of the rectum. Local carcinogens and bovine papillomavirus are associated with the geographic predilection of forestomach neoplasia.
The earth's mantle

It has been generally accepted for some time that the earth's mantle is “solid” (crystalline). But increasing complications arise as attempts are made to rationalize that state of matter with the growing list of properties of the mantle. We suggest that materials of the earth's mantle are in a fourth state of matter, which we propose calling soliqueous —a combination of solid, liquid, and gaseous. It includes elements for forming water molecules and allows expanding superheated steam to supply the principal force for elevating and distorting land masses. Bridgman's experiments on plastic deformation of materials at very high pressures revealed that spasmodic jerky yielding is characteristic. We propose plastic rupture in shear as the primary mechanism by which energy in the earth is converted to the vibrations of earthquakes.
Ion Implantation-Induced Defects and the Influence of Titanium Silicidation

Thermal evolution of ion implantation-induced defects and the influence of concurrent titanium silicidation in pre-amorphized p-type Si (implanted with 25 KeV, 1016 cm2Si+) under rapid thermal processing (RTP) have been investigated. Presence of implantation-inducedelectrically active defects has been confirmed by current-voltage (IV) and deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) measurements. DLTS characterization results show that the evolution of electrically active defects in the Si implanted samples under RTP depend critically on the RTP temperature: Hole traps HI (0.33 eV) and H4 (0.47 eV) appear after the highest temperature (950 °C) anneal, while a single trap H3 (0.26 eV) shows up at lower anneal temperatures (≤ 900 °C). The thermal signature of H4 defect is very similar to that of the iron interstitial while those of HI and H3 levels appear to originate from some interstitial-related defects, possibly complexes. A most interesting finding is that the above interstitial related defects can be eliminated completely with Ti silicidation, apparently a result of vacancy injection. However the silicidation process itself introduces a new H2 (0.30 eV) level, albeit at much lower concentration. This same H2 level is also seen in unimplanted samples under RTP. The paper will present details of defect evolution under various conditions of RTP for samples with and without the self-implantation and silicidation.
Evaluating Seedlings of Cantaloupe for Varietal Nonpreference-Type Resistance to Diabrotica Spp.

Resistance ratings of cantaloupe seedlings to Diabrotica spp. were bimodally distributed, variances of different varieties were not homogenous, and varieties tested in the same cage showed interaction. Testing of varieties in separate cages eliminated interaction, but differences between varieties were not as pronounced as when tested together. Assumptions of normality, independence, and homogeneity of variance were avoided by the use of nonparametric tests of order. Differences between varieties were significant for the banded cucumber beetle. Diabrotica balteata LeConte, and highly significant for the spotted cucumber beetle, D. undecimpunctata howardi Barber. There was a positive, but weak, correlation between feeding preferences of the 2 beetles.
Application Status of Online Monitoring and Live Detection Technologies of Transmission and Distribution Equipment in Electric Network

In this paper,the on-line monitoring and live detection technologies of transmission and distribution equipment is summarized and analyzed including the application status in China.It is pointed out that,as to the on-line monitoring and live detection technologies,there are still some problems such as relative standards to be uniform,stable operation to be improved,maintenance and management to be strengthened.Besides,on this basis,the countermeasures and suggestions are proposed to provide reference for the comprehensive promotion of the state maintenance of the transmission and distribution equipment.
Do guns make us free?: Democracy and the armed society

As I write this review, dozens of people lie dead and dozens more injured in the worst mass shooting in U.S. history. The sickening massacre in Orlando, FL leaves the local and broader LGBTQ commun...
The Phylogeny and Structural Properties of 2/2 Haemoglobins

In 2002, Jonathan and Beatrice Wittenberg inspected the 42 protein sequences then known to belong to the lineage of truncated (two-on-two) globins. They pointed out that these proteins parted into three distinct phylogenetic groups. The classification allowed for the identification of essential residues surrounding the heme group and guided subsequent structural studies. It also provided clear targets for further experimental work and set the stage for analyses of gene history. In this chapter, the status of the two-on-two globin lineage is updated. It is shown that the 2002 observations withstand the test of additional sequences and structures. The two-on-two family, which has grown practically ten-fold since the original study, conforms to the group-specific mechanisms of ligand stabilisation and fold features anticipated in the seminal Wittenberg contribution.
Normativity and the Planning Theory of Law

In this essay, I focus on what appear to be Shapiro’s views about the normativity of law, as well as with his surprising claim that law necessarily has a moral aim. I argue that even if Shapiro offers a more compelling reply to the problem of the normativity of law than Hart offers in The Concept of Law, the moves that he makes appear to be equally available to a defender of Hart’s theory, and so in this respect, the planning theory has no particular advantage over the practice theory. As for the Moral Aim Thesis, it appears to be in tension with Shapiro’s positivism. If he is right that law has a moral aim and law claims moral legitimacy, then he should embrace a richer account of the nature and normativity of law than the one that he has offered.
The Tea Gown in Edith Wharton's THE OTHER TWO

Taken in 1905, one year after “The Other Two” was published, an informal and elegant portrait of Edith Wharton shows the writer in a domestic setting, seated at a desk with a manuscript, book in ha...
Chapter 32 – Memory

Multiple memory systems, supporting distinct forms of memory, exist within the brain. Declarative memory (memory for facts and events), emotional memory (attaching emotional relevance to experience), motor memory (learning how to perform actions and action sequences), and working memory (keeping information “in mind” for a short period of time) each rely on different brain areas. The brain structures that chiefly correspond to these separate systems include the hippocampus, amygdala, cerebellum, basal ganglia, prefrontal cortex, and parietal cortex. This chapter introduces these different types of memory and their neural bases. In order to provide a conceptual understanding of the fundamental, physical mechanism underlying memory across multiple memory systems, this chapter also describes how experience causes synaptic plasticity, in which changes of neuron structure occur at the synapse.
Improvements for the smooth joint contact model of the particle flow code and its applications

Abstract This paper deals with two shortcomings of the smooth-joint contact model (SJCM) used in the particle flow code (PFC). The first shortcoming is the increase of the shear strength of the joint when the shear displacement of the joint exceeds a specific value that is related to the particle size. This problem is named as the interlocking problem, which is caused by the interlocking particles. It occurs due to a shortcoming of the updating procedure in the PFC software related to the contact conditions of the particles that lie around the intended joint plane during high shear displacements. This problem also increases the dilation angle and creates unwanted fractures around the intended joint plane. To solve this problem two new approaches are proposed in this paper: (1) joint plane checking (JPC) approach and (2) joint sides checking (JSC) approach. These approaches and the regular approach are used to model: (a) the direct shear test using the PFC 2D and PFC 3D , (b) the biaxial test on a sample having a persistent joint with a dip angle varying from 0° to 90° at an interval of 15° using the PFC 2D and (c) the polyaxial test on two samples, one of them having a joint with a dip direction of 0° and the dip angle varying from 0° to 90° at an interval of 15°, and the other sample having a joint with a dip angle of 60° and the dip direction varying from 0° to 90° at an interval of 15° using the PFC 3D . All numerical results show that the JPC and JSC approaches can solve the interlocking problem. Also, they proved to be more consistent with the theory compared to the regular approach. However, the JPC approach leads to a slightly softer joint. Therefore, the JSC approach is suggested for jointed rock modeling using the PFC. The other shortcoming of the SJCM dealt within this paper is its inability to capture the non-linear behavior of the joint closure varying with the joint normal stress. This problem is solved in this paper by proposing a new modified smooth-joint contact model (MSJCM). MSJCM uses a linear relation between the joint normal stiffness and the normal contact stress to model the non-linear relation between the joint normal deformation and the joint normal stress observed in the compression joint normal stiffness test. A good agreement obtained between the results from the experimental test and the numerical modeling of the compression joint normal test shows the accuracy of this new model.
A state space based approach to localizing single molecules from multi-emitter images

Single molecule super-resolution microscopy is a powerful tool that enables imaging at sub-diffraction-limit resolution. In this technique, subsets of stochastically photoactivated fluorophores are imaged over a sequence of frames and accurately localized, and the estimated locations are used to construct a high-resolution image of the cellular structures labeled by the fluorophores. Available localization methods typically first determine the regions of the image that contain emitting fluorophores through a process referred to as detection. Then, the locations of the fluorophores are estimated accurately in an estimation step. We propose a novel localization method which combines the detection and estimation steps. The method models the given image as the frequency response of a multi-order system obtained with a balanced state space realization algorithm based on the singular value decomposition of a Hankel matrix, and determines the locations of intensity peaks in the image as the pole locations of the resulting system. The locations of the most significant peaks correspond to the locations of single molecules in the original image. Although the accuracy of the location estimates is reasonably good, we demonstrate that, by using the estimates as the initial conditions for a maximum likelihood estimator, refined estimates can be obtained that have a standard deviation close to the Cramer-Rao lower bound-based limit of accuracy. We validate our method using both simulated and experimental multi-emitter images.
The Constitutionalization of Budget for Education and Its Judicial Enforcement in Indonesia

The introduction of provision concerning budget allocation for education in the amended constitution is not a common method in constitutional drafting in Indonesia. This article aims to understanding the background of the inclusion of this provision and its judicial enforcement. It argues that the establishment of this provision closely related to the fact that education was not properly funded. As a result, the quality of education was negatively affected. The constitutionalisation of budget for education opens the possibility to allocate the national budget in this field in a more sustainable way. In addition, by constitutionalizing budget for education, there is a legal avenue available to challenge the government policy if the government fails to fulfill its constitutional obligation. The newly established Constitutional Court has the power to review whether the allocation of national budget for education is consistent with the Constitution. In some judicial review cases on budget for education, the Court took legal approach and also extralegal factors in its rulings.
Updates in the Approach to the Patient with Purpura

This review aims to provide an updated clinical framework for how to approach the patient with a purpuric eruption. The approach outlined within is focused on the identification of the primary cutaneous morphology from which one can then generate a focused differential diagnosis and initiate an appropriate workup. The primary morphologies of purpura include petechiae, macular purpura, palpable purpura, and retiform purpura. Each of these morphologies is associated with a specific underlying pathophysiology. Identifying the morphology and pathophysiology that is present is especially important in purpuric eruptions as they may be associated with underlying systemic illness such as malignancy, infection, vasculitis, or autoimmune disease. The approach to purpura starts with identifying the suspected primary cutaneous morphology. This allows the clinician to generate a hypothesis regarding the pathophysiology causing a patient’s eruption. Based on the pathophysiology that is suspected, a differential diagnosis can be generated and an appropriate workup can be initiated. This is especially important in purpuric eruptions as they can be a manifestation of many types of internal diseases.
Shifts in Eastern Europeans’ support for income redistribution 1992–2009

ABSTRACTThis article examines how Eastern Europeans’ support for income redistribution has changed from 1992–2009. Contrary to expectations that Eastern Europeans would become more tolerant of inequality and less supportive of redistribution as market structures consolidated, support for redistribution has increased considerably. Support particularly increased during the 1990s as Eastern Europeans became more sceptical of the market’s fairness. Although support for redistribution decreased slightly in the 2000s, support in 2009 remained considerably higher than the 1992 levels. Support decreased during the 2000s because of a strengthening the effect of self-interest on attitudes as well as some regained support for the market’s fairness. The pattern of change in citizens’ attitudes suggests that support for redistribution shifts most during times of economic crisis and fluctuates to small degrees during periods of relative stability.
Small Talk - With a Big, Classic Clash of Narratives

This chapter focuses on prominent sports talk-radio shows with local or small-regional markets, The Afternoon Sports Beat, The Dynamic Duo, and The Total Dominance Hour. It provides insight into additional facets of sports-talk radio’s participation in the hyper-mediated marketplace of sports narratives, documenting how relentlessly and indefatigably many participants will press forward with those narratives that they insist most accurately impose what social meaning they contend should be taken from the sporting developments under discussion.
A microfluidic competitive immuno-aggregation assay for high sensitivity cell secretome detection.

We report a high-sensitivity cell secretome detection method using competitive immuno-aggregation and a micro-Coulter counter. A target cell secretome protein competes with anti-biotin-coated micro...
Spine and Spinal Canal

MRI has revolutionized the imaging of the spine, providing diagnostic information not available previously with other imaging modalities. Although CT and X-ray plain film still provide better details of the osseous structures and calcifications, these imaging modalities provide little information about the soft tissues that are often the anatomical structures most relevant to a patient’s clinical problem. MRI can provide excellent details of all the anatomical structures of the spine, including the bone, bone marrow, and soft tissues. CT and X-ray plain film remain the preferred choice for initial evaluation of spinal trauma, but for most other spine diseases, MRI has become the preferred imaging modality. Spine diseases that are best evaluated with MRI include degenerative spine disease, spine infection, and neoplasm. In addition, MRI is often required for evaluation of acute traumatic spine injury, particularly when injury to the spinal cord, ligaments or vascular structures is suspected.
Breast cancer screening: effect of physician specialty, practice setting, year of medical school graduation, and sex.

We surveyed physicians of different specialties in a large metropolitan area to determine how their characteristics affected their performance and beliefs about breast cancer screening. Of 664 general internists, obstetrician-gynecologists, and cardiologists surveyed, we received 298 responses (45%). We found significant differences in reported performance of breast cancer screening and physicians’ beliefs about mammography screening among practicing obstetrician-gynecologists, internists, and cardiopulmonary specialists. Cardiopulmonary specialists performed the fewest breast examinations and screening mammograms and were most likely to believe annual mammography screening unnecessary even for women in their 50s. We observed no difference between physicians graduating before 1960 and those graduating afterward and no differences according to physician sex. We found similar screening practices and beliefs in the three types of practice settings examined: community-based, private practices, a large health maintenance organization (HMO), and academic medical centers. Obstetrician-gynecologists and internists differed only in the frequency with which they performed breast examinations. Physicians graduating before 1960 in these two groups reportet somewhat poorer performance and knowledge of breast cancer screening than those graduating more recently. A majority of al respondents disagreed with American Cancer Society guidelines for mammography screening. Physicians of all specialties reported performing far more breast examinations than screening mammograms on women of all ages, even for those 50–59 years of age. We conclude that all physicians need to improve their screening rates. However, intervention programs should first target those physicians with the greatest deficiencies in breast cancer screening performance and knowledge; these include medical specialists and older physicians in primary care specialties.
Regulation of Tyrosine Hydroxylase by S-Glutatiolation: Relevance to Conditions Associated with Dopamine Neuronal Damage

Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) is the initial and rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of the neurotransmitter dopamine (DA). Increases or decreases in its level of activity could, therefore, have corresponding effects of the amount of DA in neurons that is available for synaptic release. DA is involved in a large number of neurochemical and physiological processes, and dysfunctions in DA neurochemistry have been implicated in schizophrenia, addictive behaviors, and in the neurodegenerative disorder Parkinson’s Disease. TH can be regulated acutely by its substrates tyrosine, tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), and molecular oxygen, and various transcriptional events are known to influence this important enzyme. Posttranslational modifications also influence TH activity, including phosphorylation of serine residues (1), nitration of tyrosines (2, 3), and oxidation of cysteines (3).
Postoperative rehabilitation of simultaneous rupture of anterior cruciate ligament and patellar ligament: A case report

Introduction The simultaneous rupture of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and patellar ligament (PL) is an infrequent condition. Each isolated injury has surgical techniques and rehabilitation protocols that differ widely among each other. Nonetheless, there is no established physical rehabilitation approach when both injuries are associated. Objective The aim of this report is to describe the rehabilitation and the outcomes obtained in the postoperative period of simultaneous rupture of ACL and PL and the follow-up period. Case report A 21-year-old male patient suffered the rupture of ACL and PL after landing from a jump while playing soccer. The knee was immediately immobilized, and 10 weeks later, he was operated in a one-stage surgery. He initiated his rehabilitation 3 weeks after the surgical resolution. A three-times a week rehabilitation was implemented to restore range of motion and improve functional status. An extensive evaluation was carried out monthly using dynamic neuromuscular tests and self-reported questionnaires. Results At the end of the rehabilitation, he presented a complete extension and 130° of knee flexion in passive open kinetic chain. The Single Leg Squat and Landing Error Scoring System showed a good performance, while the Star Excursion Balance Test and the single hops assessments were symmetrical. The International Knee Documentation Committee and Lower Extremity Functional Scale questionnaires yielded values of 90.8% and 77 points, respectively. Conclusion An approach based on mobility exercises and strengthening of the lower limbs and the core muscles, considering the biological healing times of each particular structure, made it possible to obtain satisfactory results in mobility, functional tests, self-reported questionnaires, and patient's satisfaction.
Connecting formal and informal learning to enhance elementary teacher preparation in Geosciences

The U.S. National Research Council has called on the science education community to conduct further studies on how informal learning complements the formal classroom environment. Responding to this research need, we are developing, testing, and studying new instructional materials that integrate informal, field-based science learning into elementary teacher education. Us-ing EarthCaching as a model for teaching geosciences, the project team has developed an introductory module and seven field-based EarthCaching activities that connect to the earth and space science core ideas described in the Next Generation Science Standards. The materials are aimed at pre-service elementary teachers; however, they are appropriate for use with early child-hood and special education majors. To date we have piloted the materials over four semesters, gathering feedback through fo-cus groups to inform iterative revisions. Through the redesign process, the team has identified a set of preliminary design prin-ciples to guide other teacher educators interested in integrating EarthCaching into their instruction. These include attention to preparation, safety, and navigation; emphasis on observation, estimation, and prediction; promoting peer group interactions; presenting familiar sites from a new perspective; and highlighting cultural significance. Elementary pre-service teachers in the focus groups noted the value of taking young learners outside to EarthCache, including the opportunity to connect classroom learning to the real world and to teach geosciences locally. We anticipate that integrating informal science learning experiences into a science course for elementary pre-service teachers will increase their positive attitudes towards informal learning and in-tention to use elements of informal learning with their own students.
Gaining Legitimacy Amid Competing Logics: Religious mutual funds in the United States

New institutional research is now acknowledging the complexity of organizational environments, problematizing more simplistic narratives of organizational adoption of unified institutional logics. ...
Pancreatic cancer microenvironment: a current dilemma

Pancreatic cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in the United States and survival outcomes remain dismal despite significant advances in molecular diagnostics and therapeutics in clinical practice. The microenvironment of pancreatic cancer carries unique features with increased desmoplastic reaction and is infiltrated by regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells which negatively impact the effector immune cells. Current evidence suggests that stellate cell-induced hypovascular stroma may have direct effects on aggressive behavior of pancreatic cancer. Preclinical studies suggested improvement in drug delivery to cancer cells with stroma modifying agents. However these findings so far have not been confirmed in clinical trials. In this article, we elaborate current-state-of-the science of the pancreatic cancer microenvironment and its impact on molecular behavior of cancer cells, chemotherapy resistance and druggability of stroma elements in combination with other agents to enhance the efficacy of therapeutic approaches.
Efficacy of a Smart Photovoltaic inverter as a virtual detuner for mitigating Network Harmonic Resonance in Distribution Systems

Abstract As the grid is becoming smarter, more challenges are encountered with the integration of Photovoltaic plants in distribution systems. The real power generation varies based on the insolation from the sun. As a result, the fluctuations in voltages are seen as transient adversaries in the system causing the Photovoltaic inverters to trip. Smart Photovoltaic inverters nowadays are equipped with specialized controllers for exchanging reactive power with the grid based on the available capacity of the inverter, after the real power generation. With the ability of operation in VAR mode, Smart Photovoltaic inverters could regulate the voltage based on volt/VAR control, facilitate the power factor correction of the local loads and provide VAR support to ride through the voltage deviations during faults. Although the research that are undergoing are pertaining to all the aforesaid applications of Smart Photovoltaic inverters, employing a smart Photovoltaic inverter for resonance mitigation is a novel approach. U.S. based standard IEEE 519 for power quality describes the network resonance as a major contributor that has an impact on the harmonic levels. This paper proposes a new application in utilizing a Smart inverter to act as a virtual detuner in mitigating network resonance, based on the VAR mode control strategy with anti-windup and droop characteristics scheme that are incorporated with the design of Smart inverters. This novel application would further serve as a pioneering approach for researchers and planning engineers working in distribution systems as the grid gets more and more smarter.
BUILDING CAPACITY TO ASSESS LONGITUDINAL OUTCOMES AND HEALTH EXPENDITURES FOR CHILDREN WITH CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Congress, American College of Cardiology, and American Heart Association have all defined longitudinal follow-up and resource utilization for patients with congenital heart disease as top research and patient care priorities. Medicaid claims include
Differences in above- and below-ground responses to ozone between two populations of a perennial grass

Our study examined the influence of elevated ozone levels on the growth and mycorrhizal colonization of two populations of Elymus glaucus L. (blue wildrye). We hypothesized that ozone would reduce carbon availability to the plants, particularly below ground, and would affect mycorrhizal colonization. Because of the wide geographic range of E. glaucus, two populations of plants were selected from areas of contrasting ozone histories to examine intraspecies variation in response to ozone. Two populations of E. glaucus (southern California versus northern California) exposed in a factorial experiment involving ozone, mycorrhizal inoculation with Glomus intraradices Schenck and Smith, and plant source population. Ozone had a subtle effect on leaf area and number of tillers but did not affect overall root:shoot ratio in either population. The impact of ozone on above-ground growth characteristics was most pronounced in the southern population that came from a high-ozone environment, while below-ground responses such as reduced arbuscular colonization was most pronounced in the northern population which originated in a low-ozone environment. Further analysis of soil characteristics from the northern population of plants revealed a significant reduction in active soil bacterial biomass and an increase in total fungi per gram dry weight soil, suggesting a possible role for ozone in altering soil processes. Whether or not population differences in response to ozone were due to genetic shifts resulting from prior ozone remains to be determined. However, these subtle but important differences in population response to ozone above- and below-ground have significant implications in any attempt to generalize plant response, even within a species. Future research efforts need to include better characterization of intraspecific variation in response to ozone as well as possible adaptive strategies that may result from chronic ozone exposure.
PD-L1 detection using 89Zr-atezolizumab immuno-PET in renal cell carcinoma tumorgrafts from a patient with favorable nivolumab response

Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) correlates with a worse prognosis, but whether it also predicts responsiveness to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy remains unclear. Most studies of PD-L1 are limited by evaluation in primary rather than metastatic sites, and in biopsy samples, which may not be representative. These limitations may be overcome with immuno–positron emission tomography (iPET), an emerging tool allowing the detection of cell surface proteins with radiolabeled antibodies. Here, we report iPET studies of PD-L1 in a preclinical tumorgraft model of clear cell RCC (ccRCC) from a patient who had a favorable response to anti-PD-1 therapy. A 49-year-old man underwent a cytoreductive nephrectomy in 2017 of a right kidney tumor invading into the adrenal gland that was metastatic to the lungs and a rib. Histological analyses revealed a ccRCC of ISUP grade 4 with extensive sarcomatoid features. IMDC risk group was poor. Within two hours of surgery, a tumor sample was implanted orthotopically into NOD/SCID mice. Consistent with an aggressive tumor, a renal mass was detected 18 days post-implantation. Histologically, the tumorgraft showed sarcomatoid differentiation and high levels of PD-L1, similar to the patient’s tumor. PD-L1 was evaluated in subsequently transplanted mice using iPET and the results were compared to control mice implanted with a PD-L1-negative tumor. We labeled atezolizumab, an anti-PD-L1 antibody with a mutant Fc, with zirconium-89. iPET revealed significantly higher 89Zr-atezolizumab uptake in index than control tumorgrafts. The patient was treated with high-dose IL2 initially, and subsequently with pazopanib, with rapidly progressive disease, but had a durable response with nivolumab. To our knowledge, this is the first report of non-invasive detection of PD-L1 in renal cancer using molecular imaging. This study supports clinical evaluation of iPET to identify RCC patients with tumors deploying the PD-L1 checkpoint pathway who may be most likely to benefit from PD-1/PD-L1 disrupting drugs.
Esophageal pneumatosis: Case report and review of literature.

Abstract Pneumatosis of the gastrointestinal tract is defined as presence of air in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract and can occur in any part of the gastrointestinal tract. It is most commonly seen in the intestine and very rarely in the esophagus. The exact pathogenesis is still unknown. It is managed primarily by conservative and non-surgical therapy, unless there are findings to suggest an acute abdomen or other co-morbidities. On review of literature, very few case reports of esophageal pneumatosis have been published. We present a rare case of pneumatosis of the esophagus with cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection.
Neural coding and perception of auditory motion direction based on interaural time differences

Recognizing motion and identifying an object’s trajectory are important for parsing a complex auditory scene, but how we do so is unclear. We show that neurons in the auditory midbrain do not exhib...