cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
- Deep-Sequencing Technologies and Potential Applications in Forensic DNA Testing

Development of second- and third-generation DNA sequencing technologies have enabled an increasing number of applications in different areas such as molecular diagnostics, gene therapy, monitoring food and pharmaceutical products, biosecurity, and forensics. These technologies are based on different biochemical principles such as monitoring released pyrophosphate upon incorporation of a base (pyrosequencing), fluorescence detection subsequent to reversible incorporation of a fluorescently labeled terminator base, ligation based approach wherein fluorescence of cleaved nucleotide after ligation is measured, measuring the proton released after incorporation of a base (semiconductor-based sequencing), monitoring incorporation of a nucleotide by measuring the fluorescence of the fluorophore attached to the phosphate chain of the nucleotide, and by detecting the altered charge in a protein nanopore due to released nucleotide by exonuclease cleavage of a DNA strand. Analysis of multiple DNA fragments in parallel increases the depth of coverage while decreasing labor, cost, and time, highlighting some major advantages of deep-sequencing technologies. DNA sequencing has been routinely used in the forensic laboratories for mitochondrial DNA analysis. Fragment analysis, however, is the preferred method for Short Tandem Repeat genotyping due to the cumbersome and costly nature of fi rst-generation DNA sequencing methodologies. Deep-sequencing technologies have brought a new perspective to forensic DNA analysis. Studies include STR analysis to reveal hidden variation in the repeat regions, mtDNA sequencing, Single Nucleotide Polymorphism analysis, mixture resolution, and body fluid identification. Recent publications reveal that attempts are being made to expand the capability.
Fifteen years of anti-HER2 therapy.

Last month brought the accelerated approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of a fourth agent targeting the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) oncogene product: TDM-1 (Kadcyla), a conjugate of trastuzumab and a cytotoxic, emtansine.
Training and Educational Development for “Vetrepreneurs”:

The ProblemOver the last decade, specialized training programs have emerged to assist veterans in launching their own businesses. An initial search for information on entrepreneurship training programs for veterans, however, reveals that there has been no systematic research undertaken to summarize programs available and no comparison of what these various training efforts include. In addition, there has been no examination of whether these programs provide the requisite skills to engage in venture creation, result in the launch of veteran start-ups, and improve the odds of long-term venture success. The lack of empirical studies reporting on the assessment of these programs makes it difficult to judge the relevancy of the curriculum in meeting the nascent veteran entrepreneurs’ needs.The SolutionThis article brings together a wide range of information on veteran entrepreneurial training programs offered by the government, academia, and nonprofits in the United States. Data were gathered through websites ...
Simplifying mental math: Changing how added sugars are displayed on the nutrition facts label can improve consumer understanding.

Abstract Background Proposed variations to Nutrition Facts Labels (NFL) have included the display of added sugars (AS) content, but its impact on consumer understanding is poorly understood. Objective To examine the degree to which different formats for displaying AS influence consumer understanding, perceptions, and purchase intentions. Design Randomized-controlled online experiment. Participants A sample of 2509 U.S adults. Intervention Participants were randomized to 1 of 8 conditions and viewed 10 food or beverage images with either: (1) no label (control); (2) the current NFL (without AS); (3) the proposed NFL without AS; or the proposed NFL with AS in (4) grams, (5) grams and teaspoons, (6) grams and percent Daily Value (%DV), (7) grams with high/medium/low text, or (8) grams with high/medium/low text and %DV. Main outcome measures & statistical analysis ANCOVAs compared scores on quizzes that assessed the accuracy of judgments about AS, overall nutrition understanding and purchase intentions. Results Presenting AS in grams plus high/medium/low text with and without %DV led to the highest AS understanding scores (85% and 83% correct, respectively) compared to 70% correct when AS was not on the label or was displayed in grams only (74% correct). Displaying AS in teaspoons did not significantly improve understanding beyond grams alone. Consumers were best able to determine which of two products was healthier when AS was presented as %DV (68% correct) versus displayed in grams alone (60% correct), but %DV did not differ from high/medium/low text or teaspoons. None of the labels influenced purchase intentions relative to no label. Conclusion Displaying AS on the NFL in grams with high/medium/low text, %DV, or the combination of the two, improved consumer understanding more than presenting it in grams or teaspoons.
Assessing demographic differences in decisional balance for smoking prevention and temptations to try smoking among adolescent subgroups.

INTRODUCTION Cigarette smoking initiation remains prevalent in adolescence. Effective prevention methods are needed to dissuade this behavior. Demographic factors are identified as important risk factors in the developmental nature of smoking in adolescence. The current study investigates potential demographic differences for two new trans-theoretical model measures, the Decisional Balance Inventory (pros and cons) for Smoking Prevention and the Temptations to Try Smoking Scale. METHODS A sample of 6th grade Rhode Island students from 20 middle schools (N = 4151) who were participating in a longitudinal and computer-delivered intervention for substance abuse prevention was assessed on these measures at baseline. Three MANOVA tests were conducted to assess the impact of race (White vs. Non-White), ethnicity (Hispanic vs. Non-Hispanic) and gender (male vs female). RESULTS Significant effects for race and ethnicity were found for Decisional Balance and Temptations to Try Smoking. For race, Whites reported lesser pros (p <.0001) and Non-Whites reported higher cons (p <.0001) and temptations to try smoking (p <.0001). Differences for ethnicity showed that Hispanics were higher on pros (p <.0001) and temptations to try smoking (p <.0001) than Non-Hispanics. Non-Hispanics reported higher cons (p <.0001). Gender differences were noted only for temptations to try smoking, and showed females were higher on this construct than males (p <.0001). The effect sizes were .01 or below. CONCLUSIONS The results did not demonstrate a strong association between these demographics and constructs, suggesting that tailored prevention methods based solely on these factors may not dissuade smoking in this group.
Partial neuromuscular block impairs arytenoid abduction during hypercarbic challenge in anesthetized dogs.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effect of two levels of partial neuromuscular block (NMB) on arytenoid abduction, tidal volume (VT) and peak inspiratory flow (PIF) in response to a hypercarbic challenge in anesthetized dogs. Study design Prospective laboratory study. Animals Eleven healthy male Beagle dogs aged 3–5 years. Methods Dogs were anesthetized with propofol and dexmedetomidine infusions. The rima glottidis was observed via an endoscope placed through a laryngeal mask airway. Atracurium infusion was titrated to obtain two levels of partial NMB. The normalized glottal gap area (NGGA; glottal gap area normalized to height squared of rima glottidis) at peak inspiration during a hypercarbic challenge (10% CO2 inspired for 1 minute) was measured at baseline, during mild [train-of-four (TOF) ratio 0.4–0.6] and shallow (TOF ratio 0.7–0.9) NMB, and 30 minutes after spontaneous recovery from NMB. The VT and PIF were measured at the same time points and compared using anova for repeated measures and Tukey’s post hoc tests. Results The NGGA and VT were significantly lower than baseline during both levels of partial NMB with no difference between mild and shallow NMB (p Conclusions and clinical relevance The NGGA and VT at peak inspiration in response to a hypercarbic challenge were reduced during partial NMB block, with decreased abduction of the arytenoid cartilages. This dysfunction was present even at shallow levels of NMB.
Improved method for simultaneous determination of saturated and aromatic biomarkers, organosulfur compounds and diamondoids in crude oils by GC–MS/MS

Abstract An improved GC–MS/MS method was developed for simultaneous determination of various types of molecular markers in whole crudes without the need for laborious group-type separation and discrete analyses of the diverse fractions. The ability to simultaneously identify and accurately quantify the numerous saturated and aromatic biomarkers, the organosulfur compounds (OSC) and the diamondoids in a single step was attained through use of expanded multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions in specific time windows. The optimization was achieved through improving GC separation and selective choice of precursor and product ions, collision energies, dwell time, and time windows in the MRM settings. The method was tested using four crude oils of diverse types, densities and maturities: a heavy crude from Sicily (18° API), an intermediate-density crude from the Arabian Gulf (33° API), a light black oil from California (39° API), and a light condensate from Wyoming (53° API). The improvements were validated by checking accuracy and precision using three spiking levels of standard compounds into the oils. Comparison of the results of the single-step GC–MS/MS method with the results from traditional multi-step approaches indicates that the single-step GC–MS/MS approach achieved higher resolution, higher specificity and sensitivity, higher accuracy and precision for calculation of the common biomarker indices. Additionally, the single-step approach precluded the loss of light-end components during sample preparation and minimized co-elution problems in molecular analyses.
Rescuing Nones From the Reference Category: Civic Engagement Among the Nonreligious in America:

Religious individuals are repeatedly found to be more civically engaged than nonreligious individuals. However, most studies of civic engagement relegate the nonreligious to the reference group; th...
A framework for understanding automation in terms of levels of human control abstraction

Levels of Autonomy (LoA) provide a method for describing authority granted to operators and autonomous system elements. Unfortunately, LoA does not provide the user interface designer a clear method to distinguish interface concepts which impose varying levels of operator workload or result in human or system performance changes. The current research suggests an alternate classification framework for vehicle control, referred to as the Level of Human Control Abstraction (LHCA). LHCA describes how an operator controls a system based on the control tasks performed and the level of detail of decisions made by the operator. The proposed framework consists of five levels: Direct Control, Augmented Control, Parametric Control, Goal-Oriented Control, and Mission-Capable Control. It is suggested that as the level of detail of control is reduced through progression from Direct Control to Mission-Capable Control, the level of human attention, and workload will be reduced.
Delta factor can displace sigma factor from Bacillus subtilis RNA polymerase holoenzyme and regulate its initiation activity.

A protein with a molecular weight of 21,000 daltons is found associated with a fraction of Bacillus subtilis RNA polymerase core. This protein (δ) does not react with antibody made against sigma factor and has a peptide map which is significantly different from sigma factor. At ratios of 2:1 to 4:1 (δ:holoenzyme) the δ displaces sigma factor completely from the core and associates in a 1:1 ratio with core to form δ-core. Under the same incubation conditions sigma factor at a ratio of 10:1 (sigma factor: δ-core) does not displace δ from the δ-core. The δ-core has much less activity as compared to holoenzyme on various DNA templates. However, sigma factor does stimulate the activity of δ-core enzyme under conditions of RNA synthesis. These observations and the results of others suggest that δ-core enzyme binds initially to specific DNA sites followed by δ release from the core-DNA complex and that the sigma factor binds to the core-DNA complex to initiate RNA synthesis. Thus both δ and sigma factors are required in a sequential fashion for specific transcription to occur in B. subtilis.
Inducing Bystander Interventions During Robot Abuse with Social Mechanisms

We explored whether a robot can leverage social influences to motivate nearby bystanders to intervene and defend them from human abuse. We designed a between-subjects study where 48 participants took part in a memorization task and observed a confederate mistreating a robot both verbally and physically. The robot was either empathetic towards the participant’s performance in the task or indifferent. When the robot was mistreated, it ignored the abuse, shut down in response to it, or reacted emotionally. We found that the majority of the participants intervened to help the robot after it was abused. Interventions happened for a wide range of reasons. Interestingly, the empathetic robot increased the proportion of participants that self-reported intervening in comparison to the indifferent robot, but more participants moved the robot as a response to abuse in the latter case. The participants also perceived the robot being verbally mistreated more and reported higher levels of personal distress when the robot briefly shut down after abuse in comparison to when it reacted emotionally or did not react at all.
A Comparison of the Changes in Carbohydrate, Fat, and Protein Metabolism Occurring with Malignant and Benign Tumors and the Impact of Nutritional Support

Cachexia is a common feature of advanced malignancy. In many patients, anorexia or alterations in gastrointestinal function seem to contribute to the observed weight loss. However, weight loss occurs in some patients even without an obvious cause, which is widely believed to be due to increased energy expenditure associated with the presence of a neoplasm. Although this concept has not been confirmed in a number of studies (Knox et al., 1983; Hansell et al., 1986), Lundholm et al. (1981a) suggested that anorexia is the primary event, based on data showing that food intake in cancer-bearing patients relative to matched controls is diminished. Data from animal experiments and pair-fed studies indicate that malignant tumor-or host-secreted factors may play a major role in weight loss by interfering with the normal carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism (Burt et al., 1983a; Devereux et al., 1985; Brennan, 1977; Heber et al., 1982; Norton et al., 1981; Pain et al., 1984; Warren et al.,1987). The changes in host metabolism induced by malignant tumors are in contrast with the effects of benign tumors. Although benign tumors demonstrate similar significant growth, they appear to cause little systemic disturbance unless endocrinologically active or anatomically strategically sited.
Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Prospective Observational Study from Southern India.

To assess the natural history and progression of subclinical hypothyroidism and to study factors which help predict evolution of subclinical hypothyroidism into overt hypothyroidism. Longitudinal study in 40 children (2-16 yrs) presenting with subclinical hypothyroidism in a tertiary care unit in Chennai, India. Patients showing evidence of overt hypothyroidism or thyroid stimulating hormone ≥15 mIU/mL during follow-up were started on thyroxine. Others were followed up with 3-monthly thyroid function tests up to one year. At the end of our study period 3 (7.5%) were overtly hypothyroid, 16 (40%) remained as subclinical hypothyroid, and 21 (52.5%) became euthyroid. Evidence of autoimmunity at baseline was a significant (P<0.05) risk factor for progression to overt hypothyroidism. Subclinical hypothyroidism in children, with thyroid stimulating hormone upto 15 mIU/L and irrespective of thyroid autoimmunity, needs only periodic clinical and biochemical follow up. Thyroid autoimmunity may point to an increased probability of progression to overt hypothyroidism.
Land-use-mediated Escherichia coli concentrations in a contemporary Appalachian watershed

A high-spatial resolution study design was used to investigate the relationship between land use practices, stream physicochemistry, hydroclimate, and stream Escherichia (E) coli concentrations in a mixed-land-use watershed in the Appalachian region. Stream samples were collected daily from six monitoring sites and analyzed for total E. coli counts using an enzyme metabolism indicator method. Statistical comparison of E. coli concentration time series showed significant (p < 0.05) differences between study sites. Although highest average E. coli concentrations were observed at two agricultural sites (534 and 582 colony-forming counts (CFU) per 100 mL, respectively), highest total loadings were observed within the receiving stream, with values increasing downstream (2 × 1012 and 4.2 × 1012 study total CFU for bracketed upstream and downstream sites, respectively). No single physical variable displayed a significant correlation (p < 0.05) with observed E. coli concentration at every site. However, sites displayed different patterns of significant correlations (p < 0.05) between E. coli concentration and both physicochemical (e.g. pH, dissolved oxygen saturation) and hydroclimate variables (e.g. streamflow and precipitation). Percent agricultural land cover was the only land use category that showed significant (p < 0.04) correlation with study average E. coli concentrations, thereby emphasizing the importance of land use practices to stream pathogen regimes. Results validate the analytical method and provide high-resolution, detailed, quantitative characterizations of stream E. coli regimes, thereby supplying land and water resource managers with science-based information to advance management decisions and improve public health.
Pancreatic β-cells detoxify H2O2 through the peroxiredoxin/thioredoxin antioxidant system

Oxidative stress is thought to promote pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and contribute to both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, are mediators of oxidative stress that arise largely from electron leakage during oxidative phosphorylation. Reports that β-cells express low levels of antioxidant enzymes, including catalase and GSH peroxidases, have supported a model in which β-cells are ill-equipped to detoxify ROS. This hypothesis seems at odds with the essential role of β-cells in the control of metabolic homeostasis and organismal survival through exquisite coupling of oxidative phosphorylation, a prominent ROS-producing pathway, to insulin secretion. Using glucose oxidase to deliver H2O2 continuously over time and Amplex Red to measure extracellular H2O2 concentration, we found here that β-cells can remove micromolar levels of this oxidant. This detoxification pathway utilizes the peroxiredoxin/thioredoxin antioxidant system, as selective chemical inhibition or siRNA-mediated depletion of thioredoxin reductase sensitized β-cells to continuously generated H2O2. In contrast, when delivered as a bolus, H2O2 induced the DNA damage response, depleted cellular energy stores, and decreased β-cell viability independently of thioredoxin reductase inhibition. These findings show that β-cells have the capacity to detoxify micromolar levels of H2O2 through a thioredoxin reductase–dependent mechanism and are not as sensitive to oxidative damage as previously thought.
The Fluorine Atom as a Cation-Stabilizing Auxiliary in Biomimetic Polyene Cyclizations: Total Synthesis of dl-Dammarenediol1

Dammarenediols I (1a) and II (1b) were prepared by an efficient nonenzymatic biomimetic polyene tetracyclization route. The cyclization substrate, pentaenol 3, contains a tetramethylallylic alcohol...
Chapter VII: Section e: Mucopolysaccharides (Acidic Glycosaminoglycans)

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the chemical properties of a group of substances called acidic mucopolysaccharides. Most of them are present in the connective tissue of animals. Their most characteristic chemical feature is a structure built of alternate units of amino sugar and glycuronic acid, the acidic character being reinforced in some of them by sulfate groups. Proteins coextracted by salt or alkaline solutions can be precipitated with the usual reagents such as phosphotungstic acid, phosphomolybdic acid, picric acid, etc., or denatured with Sevag's reagent, followed by precipitation of the polysaccharide with alcohol. Trichloroacetic acid, phenol, or acetic acid extractions have also been used with success.
Venous thromboembolism risk with contemporary lenalidomide-based regimens despite thromboprophylaxis in multiple myeloma: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background Thromboprophylaxis is routinely used with lenalidomide-based regimens in multiple myeloma because of a substantial risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, little is known about the incidence of VTE with contemporary lenalidomide-based regimens. The objective of the current study was to estimate the incidence of VTE despite thromboprophylaxis with currently used lenalidomide-based regimens in patients with myeloma. Methods The Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were queried from study inception to January 2019 for keywords to cover the following concepts: "lenalidomide," "venous thromboembolism," and "multiple myeloma." Phase 1, 2, and 3 clinical trials evaluating lenalidomide-based regimens with thromboprophylaxis were included. The pooled incidence rate of VTE was estimated using a random-effects model. Results The search generated 1372 citations, with 51 clinical trials and 9069 patients included for analysis. The most common thromboprophylaxis agents were aspirin, low-molecular-weight heparin or warfarin, administered either per risk-stratification or at investigators' discretion. The pooled incidence of VTE in trials of patients who had newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory myeloma was 6.2% (95% CI, 5.4%-7.1%) over median treatment durations ranging from 2 to 34 cycles, which translated into 1.2 VTE events per 100 patient-cycles (95% CI, 0.9-1.7 VTE events per 100 patient-cycles). Among contemporary regimens, the risk of VTE was low with combined lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone (0.2 [95% CI, 0.1-0.6] events/100 patient-cycles) and lenalidomide maintenance (0.0 [95% CI, 0.0-0.7] events per 100 patient-cycles). VTE risk was higher with combined lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone plus proteasome inhibitors (1.3 [95% CI, 0.7-2.3] events per 100 patient-cycles). Conclusions Despite adequate thromboprophylaxis, lenalidomide-based regimens have a substantial risk of VTE in controlled clinical trial settings. Further studies are needed on new thromboprophylaxis strategies with regimens that have a high VTE risk.
Longitudinal Changes in Resting Metabolic Rates with Aging Are Accelerated by Diseases

Resting metabolic rate (RMR) declines with aging and is related to changes in health status, but how specific health impairments impact basal metabolism over time has been largely unexplored. We analyzed the association of RMR with 15 common age-related chronic diseases for up to 13 years of follow-up in a population of 997 participants to the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. At each visit, participants underwent measurements of RMR by indirect calorimetry and body composition by DEXA. Linear regression models and linear mixed effect models were used to test cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of RMR and changes in disease status. Several diseases were associated with higher RMR at baseline. Independent of covariates, prevalent COPD and cancer, as well as incident diabetes, heart failure, and CKD were associated with a steeper decline in RMR over time. Chronic diseases seem to have a two-phase association with RMR. Initially, RMR may increase because of the high cost of resiliency homeostatic mechanisms. However, as the reserve capacity becomes exhausted, a catabolic cascade becomes unavoidable, resulting in loss of total and metabolically active mass and consequent RMR decline.
Examining Memory in the Context of Emotion and Motivation

In this review, I summarize the limited literature that includes manipulations of both emotion and motivation within the same experiment to examine their interactive and distinct effects on episodic memory. I position this work within the context of theories according to which emotion and motivation are inseparable, as well as other theories that view these constructs as dissociable. Memory studies that manipulate emotion and motivation within the same trial provide support for theories that view them as separate constructs. Although separate constructs, studies that compare emotion and motivation, indicate they have similar effects on memory, but the extent of this similarity may depend on affective valence, task-relevance, and retention interval. Investigating the behavioral effects of emotion and motivation on memory can inform our theoretical understanding of these constructs, with value for practical and clinical applications ranging from academic performance to psychopathology.
Long-Term Outcomes of Patients With Early Stage Nonbulky Hodgkin Lymphoma Treated With Combined Modality Therapy in the Stanford V Trials (the G4 and G5 Studies).

Purpose Combined modality therapy (CMT) is standard therapy for early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma (ESHL). We previously reported excellent outcomes with the abbreviated Stanford V regimen. Herein we report updated results with median follow-up >10 years on survival, therapy-related late effects, and impact of disease risk factors on patient outcomes. Methods and Materials The G4 and G5 studies enrolled patients with stage I-IIA nonbulky ESHL. Patients received 8 weeks of Stanford V chemotherapy followed by 30 Gy modified involved-field radiation therapy (mIFRT) (G4) or Stanford V-C + 20 Gy mIFRT (G5). Patients were categorized as favorable or unfavorable risk per German Hodgkin Study Group (GHSG) criteria and outcomes between groups compared. Results A total of 129 patients were enrolled (68 favorable and 61 unfavorable risk). In the G4 study (n = 87), at median follow-up of 19.7 years, 5-, 10-, and 15-year progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 95.4%/97.7%, 91.8%/96.5%, and 91.8%/95.3%, respectively. In the G5 study (n = 42), at median follow-up of 13.5 years, the 5-, 10-, and 15-year PFS and OS were 92.9%/100%, 92.9%/100%, and 88.4%/91.9%, respectively. PFS (P = .86) and OS (P = .86) were not significantly different between studies. There were also no significant differences between studies in patients with favorable or unfavorable risk for PFS (F: P = .53; U: P = .96), OS (F: P = .99; U: P = .78), secondary malignancies (F: P = .74; U: P = 1.0), and cardiovascular complications (F: no cases; U: P = 1.0). Conclusions The G4 and G5 studies achieve high rates of durable remission; 20 versus 30 Gy mIFRT and cyclophosphamide substituted for mechlorethamine did not compromise nodal control, PFS, or OS in both favorable and unfavorable risk disease. These results support the efficacy of CMT in early-stage disease and lower-dose radiation therapy in patients with favorable and nonbulky unfavorable ESHL.
Intersectionality and Syndemics: A Reply to Sangaramoorthy and Benton

Abstract This commentary responds to Sangaramoorthy and Benton’s commentary about the possibilities and pitfalls of putting intersectionality and syndemics into conversation. Echoing their emphasis on the significant stakes of intersectionality in advancing health equity and social justice, I assert the need for health and social scientists to advance scholarship and activism that works to dismantle white supremacy. Doing so requires using every theoretical and methodological tool possible, including an intersectionality-informed syndemics. Using ongoing fieldwork from Central Florida as an example, I provide a brief ethnographic account of what an intersectionality-informed syndemics might look like on-the-ground, and how such an effort might advance long-term, intersectional social justice goals.
Non-Covalent NRF2 Activation Confers Greater Cellular Protection than Covalent Activation

The transcription factor NRF2 confers cellular protection by maintaining cellular redox homeostasis and proteostasis. Basal NRF2 levels are normally low due to KEAP1-mediated ubiquitylation and subsequent proteasomal degradation. KEAP1, a substrate adaptor protein of a KEAP1-CUL3-RBX1 E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, contains a critical cysteine (C151) that is modified by electrophiles or oxidants, resulting in inactivation of the E3 ligase and inhibition of NRF2 degradation. Currently, nearly all NRF2 inducers are electrophilic molecules that possess unwanted off-target effects due to their reactive nature. Here, we report a group of NRF2 inducers, ent-kaurane diterpenoid geopyxins, with and without C151 reactive electrophilic moieties. Among 16 geopyxins, geopyxin F, a non-electrophilic NRF2 activator, showed enhanced cellular protection relative to an electrophilic NRF2 activator, geopyxin C. To our knowledge, this represents the first detailed structure activity relationship study of covalent versus non-covalent NRF2 activators, showing the promise of non-covalent NRF2 activators as potential therapeutic compounds.
Venture Capitalist Directors and Managerial Incentives

We examine the effect of board members with venture capital experience (i.e., VC directors) on executive incentives at publicly listed firms. VC directors serving on the compensation committee are associated with greater CEO risk-taking incentives (i.e., vega) and greater pay-for-performance sensitivity (i.e., delta). These effects are more substantial if VC directors are from highly reputable VC firms. Using Regulation S-K requirements to disclose attributes of nominated directors as an instrument, we show that these results are causal. We also document that prior finding of greater research intensity and innovation when VC directors serve on boards of public firms are in part explained by the presence of increased risk-taking incentives of the CEO instilled by such directors. Lastly, we find that having VC directors on nominating and/or governance committees is associated with a higher likelihood of forced CEO turnover.
Climate Change and Food Security: The View from Space

Global satellite data provides information on land use, rainfall, soil moisture, vegetation vigor and crop yields. Process-based products allows transformation of these data into information that can be used to assess impact of weather on commodity prices and local economic health. Trends and impact of climate change
Effect of Reinforced Concrete Deterioration and Damage on the Seismic Performance of Structures

The response of a system to dynamic excitation depends on the interaction between the forcing function and the system. In practice, change in material properties due to aging, fatigue, or the experience of a hazard are major challenges to the designer. This chapter discusses the effect of material deterioration on the dynamic properties of reinforced concrete structures with consideration to strain compatibility. Aging and loss of steel bond to concrete have significant effects on dynamic response. Aging causes a drop in compressive strength, hence in axial and flexural capacity, altering column interaction diagrams, or beam-column joint strength. The effect of aging in standing structures can be measured through coring and lab tests, but loss of bond is harder to evaluate because its mechanism is interior to structural members. Causes of bond deterioration include poor concrete mix, placement, or protection from chemical agents. However, well-designed mixes and placed materials may lose bond when subjected to an earthquake. Steel bond testing was performed and documented in literature, but there is still a gap in field data. A mathematical model is developed to illustrate the relationship between bond loss and concrete frame stiffness. Field assessment and remedial measures are discussed for structures that are suspected of, or diagnosed with, loss of bond. If the structure is salvageable, such effects call for specialized repairs as a preventive measure against subsequent events. But if loss of bond during an earthquake goes into an irreversible deformation range, the possibility of collapse increases or the structure becomes a candidate for disposal.
Commodifying Global Activism and Racial Unity during the 2010 Fifa World Cup

The NIKE(RED) Lace Up, Save Lives campaign debuted during the 2010 FIFA World Cup and invoked multiple discourses of nationalism, global citizenship, and sport to promote conscious consumerism. By co-opting symbolism of Africa's first World Cup, NIKE(RED) sold activist identities through myths of postracial harmony. The global appeal of NIKE(RED) relied upon support from soccer superstars who endorsed consumerism as cool. We argue that NIKE(RED) and the subsequent INSPI(RED) partnership exemplify commodity activism and reproduce colonial stereotypes of powerful Western consumers acting as saviors in the Third World. We critically examine news, Web sites, grassroots soccer organizations, and advertisements from the United States, UK, and Italy to address the multimedia global nature of NIKE(RED) and grassroots soccer activism.
Not so benign haematology: anaemia of the elderly.

Developed countries, such as the United Kingdom, are experiencing a change in demographics resulting in the largest proportion of adults over 65 years of age that our health systems have ever experienced. As such, haematologists must be prepared to evaluate and treat anaemia in a more complicated patient population, but sufficient evidence-based guidelines are lacking. Critical next steps that must be taken to ensure the best care of this population include the determination of appropriate haemoglobin concentrations for older adults in light of age, gender, race, and comorbidities; the development of interventional trials that address physical performance outcomes in addition to haemoglobin targets; and translational studies which address the molecular pathogenesis of anaemia in older adults with the most advanced scientific approaches.
High average power diode-end-pumped intracavity-doubled Nd:YAG laser

A compact diode-pumped ND:YAG laser was frequency-doubled to 0.532 {mu}m with an intracavity KTP or LBO crystal using a `V` cavity configuration. Two acousto-optic Q-switches were employed at repetition rates of 10-30 kHz. Dichroic fold and end mirrors were used to output two beams with up to 140 W of 0.532 {mu}m power using KTP and 116 W using LBO as the frequency doubling crystal. This corresponds to 66% of the maximum output power at 1.064 {mu}m obtained with an optimized output coupler reflectivity. The minimum output pulse duration varied with repetition rate from 90 to 130 ns. The multimode output beam had a smooth profile and a beam quality of M{sup 2} = 5 1.
Modules and Rings

1. Modules 2. Free modules 3. Injective modules 4. Tensor products 5. Certain important algebras 6. Simple modules and primitive rings 7. The Jacobson radical 8. Subdirect product decompositions 9. Primes and semiprimes 10. Projective modules and more on Wedderburn theorems 11. Direct sum decompositions 12. Simple algebras 13. Hereditary rings, free and projective modules 14. Module constructions 15. Categories and functors 16. Module categories 17. Flat modules 18. Purity.
The Atmosphere of the Earth

The atmosphere of the earth is a thin spherical shroud composed of a mixture of gases and retained by gravitational attraction. It extends to a great height, but conventional flight is possible only in its denser layers. In fact, about 99% of the total mass of the air is found below about 40 km (25 miles). Commercial airliners fly considerably below this height at roughly 30,000 to 50,000 ft (9 to 15 km), with the supersonic Concorde going to about 60,000 ft. General aviation is concentrated at much lower altitudes. If you compare these altitudes to horizontal distances on the earth’s surface, the shallowness of tangible air becomes apparent; it is no more than the distance between a couple of rural towns. If the earth were a ball with a radius of one meter (roughly three feet), breathable air would extend only one millimeter (one twenty-fifth inch) outward. This thin layer of air makes life on earth possible. Planets such as Mars with a smaller mass and consequently a weaker gravitational attraction have a more tenuous atmosphere than ours, while yet smaller heavenly bodies such as our moon cannot retain a gaseous shell at all. This is in contrast to Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system.
Thromboembolic complications after surgical correction of mitral regurgitation incidence, predictors, and clinical implications.

Objectives We sought to define thromboembolic risk after surgery for mitral regurgitation (MR), particularly ischemic stroke (IS) compared with the general population. Background Guidelines recommend surgery in asymptomatic patients with MR, but IS risks are unknown. Methods In 1,344 patients (age 65 ± 12 years) consecutively operated for MR (procedures: 897 mitral valve repair [MRep] and 447 valve replacement: 231 mechanical mitral valve replacement [MVRm], 216 biological mitral valve replacement [MVRb]), thromboembolic complications, particularly IS (diagnosed by neurologists), during follow-up were assessed early ( Results Ischemic stroke occurred in 130 patients: 1.9 ± 0.4% and 2.7 ± 0.5% at 30 days and 180 days, respectively, and 8.1 ± 0.8% at 5 years. We found that IS rates were lowest after MRep versus MVRb and MVRm (6.1 ± 0.9% vs. 8 ± 2.1%, and 16.1 ± 2.7% at 5 years, respectively, p 0.10 between procedures) and moderate risk at >30 days (risk ratio 1.7 overall; 1.3 for MRep; 0.98 for MVRb; 4.8 for MVRm). Beyond 180 days, IS risk declined further and was similar to the population for MRep (relative risk 1.2) and for MVRb (relative risk 0.9). Bleeding risk >30 days was lowest in MRep versus MVRb and MVRm (10-year risk 7 ± 1%, 14 ± 4%, and 16 ± 3%, respectively). Conclusions Thromboembolic complications after MR surgery are a reason for both concern and encouragement. The risk of IS is notable early, irrespective of procedure, but in the long term it is not greater than in the population after MRep and MVRb. Preference for MRep should be emphasized, and trials aiming at preventing IS should be conducted to reduce thromboembolic and hemorrhagic risk after surgery for MR.
Public Policy Pedagogy: Mixing Methodologies Using Cases

Over the past two decades, public policy professors have been confronted with a choice to teach either from the traditional positivist approach grounded in rationality, objectivity, and economics o...
Alpha-methyldopa melanin. Synthesis and stabilization in vitro.

Abstract Alpha-methyldopa melanin was produced by oxidation of α-methyldopa in an alkaline medium. The progression of the oxidation and its susceptibility to interruption by chelation with borate ion were investigated. The oxidative product resulting from this chelation with borate ion was shown to be of macromolecular dimensions, unable to further incorporate 14C-labeled alpha-methyldopa, resistant to further oxidation, and soluble for extended periods of time.
Visible light-induced photocatalytic activity of high surface area N-doped two-dimensional (2-D) TiO2 sheets

TiO2 being a wide band-gap material offers photocatalytic activity only in the UV region. The effects of simultaneously improving the surface area and nitrogen doping on the visible light-assisted photocatalytic activity of titanate-derived two-dimensional (2-D) sheets of TiO2 have been investigated. Results indicate a remarkable efficiency in the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange in an aqueous environment when compared to undoped 2-D TiO2 sheets.
Chromophoric dissolved organic matter export from U.S. rivers

r 2 =0.81, p<0.001) providing a method for the estimation of CDOM export from ungauged watersheds. A large variation in CDOM yields was found across the rivers. The two rivers in the north-eastern U.S. (Androscoggin and Penobscot), the Edisto draining into the South Atlantic Bight, and some rivers draining into the Gulf of Mexico (Atchafalaya and Mobile) exhibit the highest CDOM yields, linked to extensive wetlands in these watersheds. If the Edisto CDOM yield is representative of other rivers draining into the South Atlantic Bight, this would result in a CDOM load equivalent to that of the Mississippi from a region of approximately 10% of the Mississippi watershed, indicating the importance of certain regions with respect to the role of terrigenous CDOM in ocean color budgets. Citation: Spencer, R. G. M., G. R. Aiken, M. M. Dornblaser, K. D. Butler, R. M. Holmes, G. Fiske, P. J. Mann, and A. Stubbins (2013), Chromophoric dissolved organic matter export from U.S. rivers, Geophys. Res. Lett., 40, 1575–1579, doi:10.1002/grl.50357.
Phosphorus(V) Oxide

(P2O5) [1314-56-3] O5P2 (MW 141.94) InChI = 1S/O5P2/c1-6(2)5-7(3)4 InChIKey = YWEUIGNSBFLMFL-UHFFFAOYSA-N (P4O10) [16752-60-6] O10P4 (MW 283.88) InChI = 1S/O10P4/c1-11-5-12(2)8-13(3,6-11)10-14(4,7-11)9-12 InChIKey = DLYUQMMRRRQYAE-UHFFFAOYSA-N (dehydrating agent for acids and amides;1 cyclization catalyst) Alternate Names: phosphorus pentoxide; phosphoric anhydride. Physical Data: mp 569 °C; sublimes at 250 °C under vacuum. Solubility: sol H2SO4, MeSO3H. Form Supplied in: white powder; commercially available from many sources. Preparative Method: prepared by combustion of phosphorus in dry air. Purification: generally used without further purification; can be sublimed under vacuum. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: corrosive Reacts violently with water, releasing H3PO4 and heat.
Why a New Pathway

Is it not reasonable to expect that both informal and formal education should help us to achieve a level of peace, purpose, and happiness that comes at least close to Herb’s? Societal demands today are certainly different than they were during Herb’s era, but he did not have it easy; very few, if any, indigenous people did.
Stable isotopes as tracers of organic matter input and transfer in benthic food webs: A review

Abstract Some of the ways that the application of stable isotopic tracers have contributed to the extremely hard task of understanding the energy and food web relations in benthic communities are illustrated in this review. Several methods are presented and their relative advantages are discussed, namely the use of endmembers, nitrogen isotopes, carbon isotopes, and sulfur isotopes. Special attention is given to the application of multiple tracers and transects sampling, natural and man-made perturbation experiments, and 15 N additions as N cycle tracers.
The impact of sexual harassment simulations on women's thoughts and feelings

Women's thoughts and feelings in response to interpersonal and environmental sexual harassment simulations from co-workers with equal or greater organizational status were explored. Eighty-four professional women, primarily Caucasian, listened to an audio simulation of either a man propositioning her or of two men exchanging a denigrating remark about women. Participants listened to the recording twice; once they were asked to imagine the voice was that of their boss/supervisor and once that of their co-worker. The Multiple Affect Adjective Check List-Revised (MAACL-R) revealed a significant increase in dysphoria following all simulations. Interpersonal harassment by a man with higher organizational status increased dysphoria and anticipated assertiveness but lessened self-blame relative to all other experimental conditions.
Corrosion Inhibition of Copper with Benzotriazole and Other Organic Surfactants

Abstract The corrosion behavior of copper with various organic inhibitors in aerated solutions at pH 1 to pH 2 was studied using a potentiostat. The inhibitors studied included benzotriazole (BTAH), hydroxy benzophenoximes, L-hydroxy-5-nonylacetonphenone oxime, and sodium octyl hydroxamate (SOH). BTAH was shown to be the most effective of the inhibitors tested. Morphology of the copper substrate after corrosion in the presence and absence of BTAH was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to identify the spectra of the adsorbed complexes (BTA). The surface film was identified as a polymeric Cu(I)-BTA complex that totally covered the copper surface, exhibiting strong corrosion inhibition. The formation of Cu(I)-BTA was found to have been accomplished after the adsorption of BTAH on the copper surface. The effect of annealing of copper plate on the rate of corrosion also was investigated, and results indicated that the annealed copper exhib...
Preventing highway crashes by raising the legal minimum age for drinking: The Michigan experience 6 years later☆

Abstract Results of a 6-year follow-up of previous research evaluating the effects of Michigan's December 1978 increase in the legal drinking age from 18 to 21 are reported. Earlier research demonstrated the immediate effect of Michigan's raised legal age in reducing motor vehicle crash involvement among young drivers. The current study examined 6 years of post-law traffic crash data, using Box-Jenkins intervention analysis methods to assess the long-term effects of the raised drinking age. Results revealed long-term ef- fects of the law similar to the initial effects identified earlier. Over the 6-year follow-up period, the rate of involvement in injury-producing single-vehicle nighttime crashes among drivers age 18–20 was 16 % lower than the level ex- pected, had the drinking age law not changed. Police-reported drinking driver crash involvement was down 19%. In contrast to many alcohol-im- paired driving countermeasures, the raised legal drinking age appears to have a long-term effect in reducing motor vehicle crash involvement among young drivers.
Relationship between successful ablation sites and the scar border zone defined by substrate mapping for ventricular tachycardia post-myocardial infarction.

Ventricular Tachycardia and the Scar Border Zone. Introduction: It is unknown if identification of scar border zones by electroanatomical mapping correlates with successful ablation sites determined from mapping during ventricular tachycardia (VT) post-myocardial infarction (MI). We sought to assess the relationship between successful ablation sites of hemodynamically stable post-MI VTs determined by mapping during VT with the scar border zone defined in sinus rhythm. Methods and Results: Forty-six patients presenting with hemodynamically stable, mappable monomorphic VT post-MI and who had at least one such VT successfully ablated were prospectively included in the study. In each patient, VT was ablated by targeting regions during VT that exhibited early activation, ′ isolated mid-diastolic potentials, and concealed entrainment suggesting a critical isthmus site. Prior to ablation, a detailed sinus-rhythm CARTO voltage map of the left ventricle was obtained. A voltage <0.5 mV defined dense scar. Successful VT ablation sites were registered on the sinus voltage map to assess their relationship to the scar border zone. Of the 86 VTs, 68% were successfully ablated at sites in the endocardial border zone. The remaining VTs had ablation sites within the scar in (18%), in normal myocardium (4%), and on the epicardial surface (10%). There were no significant differences in VT recurrence amongst the different groups. Conclusion: Successful ablation sites of hemodynamically stable, monomorphic VTs post-MI are often located in the scar border zone as defined by substrate voltage mapping. However, in a sizable minority, ablation sites are located within endocardial scar, epicardially, and even in normal myocardium.