cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development of AFLP and derived CAPS markers for root-knot nematode resistance in cotton

Resistance to root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is determined by a single major gene rkn1 in Gossypium hirsutum Acala NemX cotton. Bulked segregant analysis (BSA) combined with amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) was used to identify molecular markers linked to rkn1. DNA pools from homozygous susceptible (S) and resistant (R) bulks of an F2:3 originating from the intraspecific cross NemX × SJ-2 were screened with 128 EcoR1/Mse1 primer combinations. Putative AFLP markers were then screened with 60 F2:7 RIL plants and four AFLP markers were found linked to rkn1. The linkage of AFLP markers to rkn1 was also confirmed in a F2 population. The closest AFLP marker was converted to a cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS) marker (designated GHACC1) by aligning the sequences from both susceptible and resistant parents. GHACC1 linkage to rkn1 was confirmed in the F2 (1R:3S), F2:7 RIL (1R:1S) and the backcross population SJ-2 × F1 (NemX × SJ-2) (1 heterozygous: 1 homozygous). The four AFLP markers, GHACC1 plus two SSR markers (CIR316 and BNL1231) linked to rkn1 from previous work were mapped to intervals of 2.6–14.2 cM from the rkn1 locus, and the genomic region around rkn1 was spanned to about 28.2 cM in the F2:7 population. The PCR-based GHACC1 and CIR316 markers were tested on 21 nematode resistant and susceptible cotton breeding lines and cultivars. GHACC1 was suitable for nematode resistance screening within G.␣hirsutum, but not G. barbadense, whereas CIR316 was useful in both species, indicating their␣potential for utilization in marker-assisted selection.
Code development for analysis of MHD pressure drop reduction in a liquid metal blanket using insulation technique based on a fully developed flow model

Abstract The paper presents details of a new numerical code for analysis of a fully developed MHD flow in a channel of a liquid metal blanket using various insulation techniques. The code has specially been designed for channels with a “sandwich” structure of several materials with different physical properties. The code includes a finite-volume formulation, automatically generated Hartmann number sensitive meshes, and effective convergence acceleration technique. Tests performed at Ha ∼ 10 4 have showed very good accuracy. As an illustration, two blanket flows have been considered: Pb–17Li flow in a channel with a silicon carbide flow channel insert, and Li flow in a channel with insulating coating.
A faceted approach to building ontologies

An ontology can be defined as a conceptualization of a domain or subject area typically captured in an abstract model of how people think about things in the domain. Humans have been producing ontologies for millennia to understand and explain our rationale and environment. Only recently has the process of building ontologies become a research topic of interest. Today, ontologies are built very much ad-hoc. A terminology is first developed providing a controlled vocabulary for the subject area or domain of interest, then it is organized into a taxonomy where key concepts are identified, and finally these concepts are defined and related to create an ontology. This paper describes how a domain analysis method based on faceted classification can be used for building ontologies. It relates domain analysis and ontologies, illustrates a step in the domain analysis method for identifying and categorizing concepts, and describes how this step, borrowed from library science, is incorporated into the domain analysis method. The paper also gives an overview of the method and describes a tool for automating parts of the process.
Vascular surgery training and certification: An international perspective

Objective Vascular surgery (VS) practice has expanded to incorporate interventional procedures, and this has stimulated changes in training. The purpose of this study was to review current VS training and certification in different countries. Methods A survey was completed by vascular surgeons involved with national certification in 34 countries. Results are expressed as the mean ± SD, with comparisons by χ 2 and t tests. Results VS is currently an independent specialty in 15 surveyed countries, is a subspecialty of general surgery in 10 countries, and is not recognized as a specialty in nine countries. There has been a clear time trend toward independent certification. In countries with independent VS certification, the length of VS training is 3.7 ± 0.9 years plus 2.3 ± 0.7 years of associated core general surgery (GS), for a total training length of 5.9 ± 1.0 years. In countries with VS subspecialty certification, the length of VS training is 2.4 ± 0.5 years after 5.0 ± 1.1 years of GS, for a total training length of 7.4 ± 1.2 years (each P P P Conclusions Considerable variation exists in VS training in different countries. There is an international movement toward independent VS certification, with longer VS specific training but shorter overall residency duration. Counties with independent VS certification produce more trainees per year to serve their elderly population.
Alternative Financing Models for Transportation: A Case Study of Land Taxation in Utah

This paper examines an alternative strategy for funding infrastructure called the land tax, which is a property tax focused on the value of land. A land tax would be economically efficient, in that it would not distort economic decision making. The authors review the feasibility of implementing a land tax and the revenue that could be raised from this tax. Administrative challenges associated with a land tax are considered. The revenue potential of a land tax using data from Utah is examined. Based on the findings, the land tax could generate significant revenue to help fund much-needed infrastructure. A land tax scheme appears to be administratively feasible, but will face political challenges due to lack of familiarity with such an approach.
Techniques to improve the regressor matrix condition for real-time parameter identification

In this paper, on-line parameter identification algorithms that consider the collinearity of the system measurements are presented. Using null-space injection and regularized linear regression with stochastic constraints, the proposed methods improve the estimates of the system parameters.
Basal-cell carcinoma occurring in an axilla: a case presentation and a review of factors related to tumor development.

. A patient with basal-cell epithelioma of the axillary vault is presented. The literature on possible etiologies of this tumor is also reviewed.
Urothelial cancers after renal transplantation.

Objective After solid organ transplantation, risk of cancer varies significantly based on cancer type. In this study, we determine the incidence of urothelial cancers (bladder and kidney) after renal transplantation from a single high-volume transplantation institution. In addition, we analyze the risk factors and review outcomes from the patients.
PITUITARY-ADRENAL RELATIONSHIP IN FULLTERM AND IN PREMATURE INFANTS, AS EVIDENCED BY EOSINOPHIL RESPONSE

EXPOSURE of the organism to stress or the administration of a toxic substance results in the elaboration of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by the pituitary, which in turn stimulates the adrenal cortex. This phenomenon was originally postulated by Selye (1) and demonstrated more clearly by Long (1947, (2)), Sayers and Sayers (1949, (3)) and others. One of the manifestations of increased adrenocortical secretion is a decline in circulating eosinophils (Dalton and Selye, 1937, (4); and Thorn et al., 1948, (5)). In a patient with intact adrenals, the administration of ACTH causes a pronounced decline in circulating eosinophils. In the primary hypoadrenal state, however, only the injection of one of the 11-oxygen corticosteroids (compounds E and F) will produce an identical response (Hills et al, 1949, (6)). The administration of epinephrine, acting as a nonspecific stress, results in a fall in circulating eosinophils in the presence of an intact pituitary-adrenal axis. If the integrity of this system is b...
Approaches to permanent magnet circuit design

Discusses some of the more fruitful approaches to the use of high coercivity/high remanence magnet materials in magnetic circuit design and how the application of comparatively few and simple techniques can result in a large number of useful devices. The approaches discussed are the estimation of permeances, magnetic cladding, equivalent pole densities and current sheets, analytic application of Maxwell's equations, the magnetic moment rotation theorem and magnetic mirrors. Some novel devices resulting from these applications are cited. >
Neogene expansion of the North American prairie

Neogene paleosols of the Great Plains and central Oregon provide abundant evidence of grasslands of the past. The characteristic surface horizon (mollic epipedon) of grassland soils (Mollisols) can be recognized in paleosols from granular ped structure, abundant fine root traces, dark color, and common carbonate or other easily weatherable minerals. The fossil record of such soils indicates a three-stage evolution of grasslands. Eocene to Oligocene rangelands are represented by paleosols with near-mollic soil structure and fine root traces similar to soils of modern desert grasslands with scattered bunch grasses and shrubs. Paleosols with mollic epipedon and shallow (less than 40 cm down into the profile) calcic horizons are evidence for the appearance of sod-forming short grasslands during the early to middle Miocene. Mollic paleosols with deeper (some 1 m or more) calcic horizons represent tall grasslands and have not been found older than late Miocene. Early stages in the evolution of grassland soils correspond to climatic coolings near the end of the Eocene and middle Miocene. The best understood climatic cooling and drying during the late Miocene (Messinian or 5-7 Ma) is synchronous with the expansion of tall C 4 grasslands.
Definition, Convention, and Simultaneity: Malament's Result and Its Alleged Refutation by Sarkar and Stachel

The question whether distant simultaneity (relativized to an inertial frame) has a factual or a conventional status in special relativity has long been disputed and remains in contention even today. At one point it appeared that Malament (1977) had settled the issue by proving that the only non-trivial equivalence relation definable from (temporally symmetric) causal connectability is the standard simultaneity relation. Recently, though, Sarkar and Stachel (1999) claim to have identified a suspect assumption in the proof by defining a non-standard simultaneity relation from causal connectability. I contend that their critique is based on a misunderstanding of the criteria for the definability of a relation, a misunderstanding that Malement's original treatment helped to foster. There are in fact a variety of notions of definability that can be brought to bear. They all, however, require a condition that suffices to secure Malament's result. The non-standard relation Sarkar and Stachel claim to be definable is not so definable, and, I argue, their proposal to modify the notion of ``causal definability'' is misguided. Finally, I address the relevance of Malament's result to the thesis of conventionalism.
Small Bowel Resection, Enterolysis, and Enteroenterostomy

Laparoscopic small bowel resection has been used for essentially all situations for which a small bowel resection might otherwise be done via celiotomy, where circumstances allow the favorable technical performance of the procedure using a laparoscopic approach. Specific indications include: 1. Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease) 2. Diverticula 3. Ischemia or gangrenous segment of bowel 4. Obstructing lesions 5. Stricture (postradiation, postischemic, etc.) 6. Neoplasms (some controversy exists due to the concern about the appropriateness of laparoscopy for maximizing oncologic principles of resection of potentially curable malignant neoplasms, as with current concerns for colon carcinoma; these concerns stem from reports of port site tumor recurrences using this approach)
Addressing Statistical Requirements and Practical Limitations in Development of Biomarker Panels and Prognostic Models

A key aspect of disease prevention and early detection for improved treatment, across a range of medical disciplines, is the development and implementationof prognostic models. Formulating such models, however, involves a range of practical challenges and associated statistical and epidemiological concerns. Although analytical approaches are generally well described for proper design, model development, and further analysis and validation of prognostic models, these methods and approaches are often poorly implemented. Overcoming these challengesmust involves a combination of utilization of appropriate methodology (and statistical expertise) and better integration of resources across studies.
Fabrication and testing of a miniature cylindrical ion trap mass spectrometer constructed from low temperature co-fired ceramics

A novel technique for the fabrication of miniature cylindrical ion trap (CIT) mass spectrometers using a non-conductive substrate has been developed. This technique demonstrated the feasibility of batch fabricating accurate and low-cost CITs. A CIT ring electrode (r0 = 1.375 mm) was fabricated using multiple layers of low temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC) which were punched and then compressed in a ring-electrode die. Uniform compression was achieved, and cracking avoided, by tailoring the thickness of the LTCC stack. The stack was then fired at 850 ◦ Ct o convert the LTCC into a ceramic ring. Areas to be metallized were patterned photolithographically after the ring was subjected to electroless plating. Stainless steel endplates were affixed to the ring electrode to complete the CIT. The prototype CIT was tested in the mass selective instability mode without axial modulation and produced mass spectra with a typical peak width of 1.8 m/z. Simulations of operation were also performed in ITSIM 5.0 after SIMION 7.0 was used to calculate the contribution of higher order multipoles to the nominally quadrupole potential inside the CIT. © 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Infanticide and the juries in France, 1825-1913.

Through the use of court statistics published by the Ministry of Justice and the observations of contemporaries this study examines the changing behavior of French juries toward persons accused of infanticide in the era from 1825 to 1913. From the beginning of this period the juries were lenient toward mothers accused of infanticide, most of whom were poor, unwed rural women whose seducers the jurymen often appear to have felt unjustly escaped from responsibility. Moreover, toward the end of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth, the acquittal rate for infanticide rose sharply, despite the state's increasing determination to fight child abuse and the rise of a repopulationist movement. This trend was related to the growing leniency of the jurymen toward accused female criminals in general, and also possibly to the feminist campaign against the male sexual irresponsibility allowed by the French civil code's ban on paternity suits.
Improving Parental Partnerships in Low-Income Families as a Means for Increasing Noncustodial Parental Compliance with Child Support Orders A Research Report

This article reports evaluation results from a federally funded project designed to improve the co-parenting relationship between custodial and noncustodial parents. The project was hypothesized that improving this relationship would result in increased voluntary compliance with child support orders. Results indicate that, although numerous strategies to involve noncustodial parents in the program were employed, virtually none was successful. Although there was a slight increase in compliance with child support orders for participant families, this was not thought to be a result of program participation and did not have a positive impact on income level of participant families. Further, the quarterly income of the participant families fell dramatically over the course of the program. Discussion focuses on the flaws in family policy that contribute to the failure of the parental partnership concept for low-income families.
Effect of dietary fiber concentration on apparent digestibility and digesta passage in non-human primates. II. Hindgut- and foregut-fermenting folivores

Two test diets with different acid detergent fiber (ADF) concentrations (15% ADF, 30% ADF) were fed to seven adult hindgut- and seven adult foregut-fermenting primates. Apparent digestibilities (%) of dietary dry matter (DM), gross energy (GE), and fiber components (neutral detergent fiber [NDF], ADF, hemicellulose [HC], and cellulose [C]) were measured. Rates of digesta transit (TT1) and retention (RGIT) times were assessed using acetate beads, Co-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, and Cr-mordanted fiber as markers. Apparent digestibilities (%) of components of the 15ADF and 30ADF diets, respectively, by hindgut versus foregut fermenters were 69.3 and 61.7 versus 81.2 and 76.7 for DM, 68.5 and 61.5 versus 80.9 and 75.6 for GE, and 44.8 and 47.4 versus 77.1 and 74.7 for NDF. No significant differences in TT1 or RGIT between dietary treatments or markers were detected. The role of plant fiber in maintaining the health and normal function of the gastrointestinal tract in captive leaf-eating primates is discussed. Zoo Biol 18:537–549, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Electroosmotically driven water flow in sediments

The electroosmotically driven flow of water through a fine-grained glacial till in response to the application of an electric field is examined. The till contains large amounts of calcite and clay minerals of the illite and smectite groups. The presence of these minerals cause the system to respond much differently to the application of an electric field than kaolinite systems. The mode of current conduction differs from that in kaolinite and the presence of calcite prevents the formation of low pH conditions in the sediment pore water. These results are applicable to the wide variety of naturally occurring fine-grained sediment that commonly contain calcite and expandable clays.
Multi-objective Analysis on Joining Technologies

This paper examines one aspect of automobile manufacturing, sheet metal joining, and endorses techniques that minimize environmental impact and cost while meeting performance standards. A methodology has been developed for evaluating kinematically constrained joining techniques based on two parameters: environmental impact and cost. The model evaluates three techniques: welding, adhesion, and riveting, that meet the same performance standards necessary for automobile manufacturing. A life-cycle assessment (LCA) model and life-cycle cost assessment (LCCA) model evaluated environmental impacts and cost, respectively, based on energy consumption and material inflows and outflows. These results were placed in a multi-objective decision making algorithm to determine the most suitable techniques for applications in automobiles.
Comparing Breast Cancer Outcomes Between Medicaid and the Ohio Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program

Compared with women who did not participate in the Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCEDP), BCCEDP participants experienced earlier breast cancer stage at diagnosis, shorter time to treatment initiation, and increased survival benefits.
Coordination Games with Strategic Delegation of Pivotality

We analyze a broad class of binary-action, two-player, coordination games with uncertain payoffs. Players receive private signals about a stochastic payoff that they obtain whenever they both take the "stochastic-coordination action''. The game structure allows a player to exploit the information contained in the other's signal only if he takes the "stochastic-coordination action'', which makes the other player pivotal in determining whether players receive the stochastic payoff. Unlike supermodular and typical global games, best responses feature both strategic complementarities and strategic substitutes. We characterize equilibria in pure monotone strategies, and identify conditions under which (a) players are less likely to take the stochastic-coordination action than is socially optimal, and (b) players are more likely to take the stochastic-coordination action than in the analogous public-signal setting (even though public signals facilitate coordination). Finally, we characterize equilibria when strategies are non-monotone. Applications include technology adoption, investment, trade wars, lobbying, protests and revolutions.
Interfacial Reactions of Mo with Al: Ion mixing Versus Thermal Annealing

Interfacial reactions induced by ion beam mixing and furnace annealing in Al/Mo bilayers are investigated. The amount of interfacial ion m’xing, 4Dt, follows a linear dose dependence for irradiation temperatures ≤80 C. Below room temperature, the mixing efficiency, defined as d(4Dt)/do, is temperature independent, and agrees fairly well with the prediction of the phenomenological model based on chemically biased diffusion in thermal spike. We conclude that thermal spike mixing dominates for Xe irradiation of Al/Mo at low temperatures. The mixing efficiency becomes temperature-dependent above room temperature with an apparent activation enthalpy of about 0.17±0.02eV. A layer of 15–20 at.% Mo forms by ion mixing, while oAl12 Mo forms upon thermal annealing in a nonuniform fashion starting at 500°C. Reaction of Mo with large-grained Al substrates shows the same nonuniform characteristics as in evaporated Al/Mo bilayers, implying a minor role of grain boundary effects. Oxygen gettered in the Mo film could be an important factor that influences the interfacial reaction.
Update on interventions focused on symptom clusters: what has been tried and what have we learned?

Purpose of reviewAlthough clinicians and researchers acknowledge symptom clusters, the focus has been on relieving a single symptom. This review summarizes the recent literature on interventions that focus on relief of symptom clusters in patients with cancer.Recent findingsTwelve intervention studi
Theory of Defects in Wide-Band-Gap Semiconductors

We discuss the application of state-of-the-art first-principles calculations to the problem of defects, impurities, and doping levels in semiconductors. Since doping problems are of particular relevance in wide-band-gap materials, we focus here on studies of ZnSe and GaN. For ZnSe, we discuss our latest insights in the influence of compensation and dopant solubility on the experimentally observed limitation of the free carrier concentration inp-type ZnSe. For GaN, we focus on the role of native defects in doping or compensation of the material, with particular emphasis on the n-type conductivity of as-grown GaN.
Packing and Unpacking Philanthropy: How Geographic Moves affect Giving and Volunteering

In this paper, we seek to understand more about how geographic moves affect philanthropic behaviors, especially giving and volunteering. This is a mixed-methods study of a group of older Americans using both survey and interview data. Using a grounded-theory approach, we develop a conceptual model for how geographic moves affect philanthropic choices. We find strong support for continuity theory—that individuals try to replicate their giving and volunteering behaviors in the new community. Our findings also support role identity theory in that many respondents view themselves as a person who “always” volunteers or gives. Individuals with weak philanthropic habits are less successful at making philanthropic connections with local organizations. A host of factors affect the relative success of making these connections, such as the quality of the volunteer experience, major life events, and available resources. We find that some monetary donations are “sticky” in that people continue to donate to some organi...
Guiding Lay Navigation in Geriatric Patients With Cancer Using a Distress Assessment Tool

BACKGROUND There is growing interest in psychosocial care and evaluating distress in patients with cancer. As of 2015, the Commission on Cancer requires cancer centers to screen patients for distress, but the optimal approach to implementation remains unclear. METHODS We assessed the feasibility and impact of using distress assessments to frame lay navigator interactions with geriatric patients with cancer who were enrolled in navigation between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2014. RESULTS Of the 5,121 patients enrolled in our lay patient navigation program, 4,520 (88%) completed at least one assessment using a standardized distress tool (DT). Navigators used the tool to structure both formal and informal distress assessments. Of all patients, 24% reported distress scores of 4 or greater and 5.5% reported distress scores of 8 or greater. The most common sources of distress at initial assessment were pain, balance/mobility difficulties, and fatigue. Minority patients reported similar sources of distress as the overall program population, with increased relative distress related to logistical issues, such as transportation and financial/insurance questions. Patients were more likely to ask for help with questions about insurance/financial needs (79%), transportation (76%), and knowledge deficits about diet/nutrition (76%) and diagnosis (66%) when these items contributed to distress. CONCLUSIONS Lay navigators were able to routinely screen for patient distress at a high degree of penetration using a structured distress assessment.
Investigation of Iso-octane Ignition and Validation of a Multizone Modeling Method in an Ignition Quality Tester

An ignition quality tester was used to characterize the autoignition delay times of iso-octane. The experimental data were characterized between temperatures of 653 and 996 K, pressures of 1.0 and 1.5 MPa, and global equivalence ratios of 0.7 and 1.05. A clear negative temperature coefficient behavior was seen at both pressures in the experimental data. These data were used to characterize the effectiveness of three modeling methods: a single-zone homogeneous batch reactor, a multizone engine model, and a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. A detailed 874 species iso-octane ignition mechanism (Mehl, M.; Curran, H. J.; Pitz, W. J.; Westbrook, C. K. Chemical kinetic modeling of component mixtures relevant to gasoline. Proceedings of the European Combustion Meeting; Vienna, Austria, April 14–17, 2009) was reduced to 89 species for use in these models, and the predictions of the reduced mechanism were consistent with ignition delay times predicted by the detailed chemical mechanism acr...
Intraoperative Margin Management in Breast-Conserving Surgery: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Breast surgeons have a wide variety of intraoperative techniques available to help achieve low rates for positive margins of excision, with variable levels of evidence. A systematic review of the medical literature from 1995 to July 2016 was conducted, with 434 abstracts identified and evaluated. The analysis included 106 papers focused on intraoperative management of breast cancer margins and contained actionable data. Ultrasound-guided lumpectomy for palpable tumors, as an alternative to palpation guidance, can lower positive margin rates, but the effect when used as an alternative to wire localization (WL) for nonpalpable tumors is less certain. Localization techniques such as radioactive seed localization and radioguided occult lesion localization were found potentially to lower positive margin rates as alternatives to WL depending on baseline positive margin rates. Intraoperative pathologic methods including gross histology, frozen section analysis, and imprint cytology all have the potential to lower the rates of positive margins. Cavity-shave margins and the Marginprobe device both lower rates of positive margins, with some potential for negative cosmetic effects. Specimen radiography and multiple miscellaneous techniques did not affect positive margin rates or provided too little evidence for formation of a conclusion. A systematic review of the literature showed evidence that several intraoperative techniques and actions can lower the rates of positive margins. These results are presented together with graded recommendations.
Rethinking Sovereign Immunity in the U.S. Federal Tort Claims Act: How Government Liability May Serve the Rule of Law

The U.S. Federal Tort Claims Act is limited by a number of exceptions pursuant to which the Government is not subject to liability, even if a private person could be liable under the same circumstances. These exceptions include the discretionary function exception, which bars a claim based â€œupon the exercise or performance or the failure to exercise or perform a discretionary function or duty on the part of a federal agency or an employee of the Government, whether or not the discretion involved be abused.â€ However, a broad interpretation of the discretionary function exception can be harmful to the implementation of the law because it restricts government agentsâ€™s responsibility. Scholars argue that the separation of powers principle requires a limitation of governmental liablity because courts must accept the decision that agencies make when implementing the law. But separation of powers does not protect unlawful administrative conduct. Rather, the possibility of tort liability can give a negative economic incentive to government agents to avoid violation of the legal requirements. Since the deterrence conception of tort law can help to maintain the rule of law, constitutional considerations ague in favour a broader government liability and a narrow interpretation of the discretionary function exception.
Spatially extended estimates of analysis and short-range forecast error variances

AbstractAccurate estimates of ‘true’ error variance between Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) analyses and forecasts and the ‘reality’ interpolated to a NWP model grid (Analysis and true Forecast Error Variance, hereafter AFEV) are critical for successful data assimilation and ensemble forecasting applications. Pena and Toth (2014, PT14) introduced a Statistical Analysis and Forecast Error estimation (hereafter called SAFE) algorithm for the unbiased estimation of AFEV. The method uses variances between NWP forecasts and analyses (i.e. ‘perceived’ forecast errors) and assumptions about the time evolution of true error variances. PT14 successfully tested SAFE for the estimation of area mean error variances. In the present study, SAFE is extended by mitigating the effects of increased sampling noise and by accounting for the spatiotemporal evolution of forecast error variances, both critical for gridpoint-based applications. The enhanced method is evaluated in a Simulated Nature, Observations, Data Assimil...
Design and calibration of a double-directional 60 GHz channel sounder for multipath component tracking

The 60 GHz band is being considered for many high-bandwidth wireless applications. To support standards development for these applications, NIST has developed an untethered 60 GHz, 8×16 MIMO channel sounder. It employs a pseudorandom bit sequence with a bandwidth of 4 GHz. The sounder can precisely measure radio propagation channel characteristics such as path loss, small-scale fading, delay dispersion, absolute delay, angle-of-arrival (AoA), angle-of-departure (AoD), and Doppler power spectrum. Its ability to measure the time dynamics of the millimeter-wave radio channel, when untethered and in motion, is unique. It employs electronically-switched MIMO antenna arrays, a robot for moving measurements and an automated one-dimensional positioner for precision measurements at fixed locations. Sounder performance is improved by use of pre-distortion filters and precision calibration of the RF and timing systems. Data showing initial AoD and AoA estimation error are presented along with initial test results for ground-plane reflection.
Retinal degeneration 6 (rd6): a new mouse model for human retinitis punctata albescens.

PURPOSE. To characterize the genetics and phenotype of a new mouse mutant with retinal degeneration, rd6, that is associated with extensive, scattered, small white retinal dots seen ophthalmoscopically. METHODS. The phenotype was characterized using ophthalmoscopy, fundus photography, electroretinography, light microscopy, immunocytochemistry, and electron microscopy. Genetic characterization and linkage analysis studies were performed using standard methods. RESULTS. The inheritance pattern of rd6 is autosomal recessive. Linkage analysis mapped rd6 to mouse Chromosome 9 approximately 24 cM from the centromere, suggesting that the human homolog may be on chromosome 11q23. Ophthalmoscopic examination of mice homozygous for rd6 revealed discrete subretinal spots oriented in a regular pattern across the retina. The retinal spots appeared by 8 to 10 weeks of age and persisted through advanced stages of retinal degeneration. Histologic examination revealed large cells in the subretinal space, typically juxtaposed to the retinal pigment epithelium. The white dots seen on fundus examination corresponded both in distribution and size to these large cells. By 3 months of age, the cells were filled with membranous profiles, lipofuscin-like material, and pigment. These cells reacted strongly with an antibody directed against a mouse macrophage-associated antigen. Photoreceptor cells progressively degenerated with age, and an abnormal electroretinogram was initially detected between 1 and 2 months of age. CONCLUSIONS. The fundi of mice homozygous for rd6 exhibit phenotypic similarities to the human flecked retinal disorder retinitis punctata albescens. Thus, rd6/rd6 mice may be a model for understanding the etiology of this or similar disorders. The relationship between the aberrant subretinal cells and the concomitant photoreceptor degeneration remains to be established.
Tense and Time: Philosophical Aspects

One central issue in the philosophy of time concerns the nature of temporal becoming – that events that were once in the future become present and then recede into the past. Some have argued that the passage of time is a myth. Others believe that passage is the essence of time and cannot be reduced to temporal relations between mental or verbal tokens and the events they are about. Although the debates between these two views of temporal becoming are decidedly ontological, concerning what entity or entities are necessary in order to account for the nature and experience of time, the question of the significance of tense in ordinary language has played a crucial role in determining which view is correct. This entry discusses some of the issues involved among the proponents and opponents of temporal becoming.
Analysis of fragment homology among DNA sequences from cytochrome P450 families 4 and 6

Cytochrome P450s comprise a diverse superfamily of proteins that often share as little as 12% amino acid identity. Accordingly, the identification of novel gene families, subfamilies and alleles has been based primarily on ‘benchmark’ levels of global amino acid identity and, more recently, phylogenetic relatedness has been used to resolve ambiguous relationships. However, PCR-based cloning strategies have resulted in a large increase in the number of short DNA sequences, particularly among insects. Many of these fragments remain unnamed and even their gene family membership remains unknown due to the uncertainty as to whether these fragments accurately reflect the levels of sequence identity or patterns of evolutionary divergence exhibited by groups of full-length P450 sequences. As a result, the nature of P450 diversity among insects remains obscure. In this paper, P450 sequences belonging to the two major gene families, that is, families CYP4 and CYP6, are analyzed by comparing segments to full-length sequences. A parameter called the Segmental Divergence Index is used to characterize segments of P450s with respect to the degree to which they mirror the divergence of full-length sequences. The reliability of these fragments in phylogenetic analyses is also tested. The results of these analyses support the use of some commonly amplified P450 gene fragments for naming new P450 genes and for studies of P450 diversity and evolution.
Comparison of Robustness of Three Filter Design Strategies Using Genetic Programming and Bond Graphs

A possible goal in robust design of dynamic systems is to find a system topology under which the sensitivity of performance to the values of component parameters is minimized. This can provide robust performance in the face of environmental change (e.g., resistance variation with temperature) and/or manufacturing-induced variability in parameter values. In some cases, a topology that is relatively insensitive to parameter variation may allow use of less expensive (looser tolerance) components. Cost of components, in some instances, also depends on whether “standard-sized” components may be used or custom values are required. This is true whether the components are electrical components, mechanical fasteners, or hydraulic fittings. However, using only standard-sized or preferred-value components introduces an additional design constraint. This chapter uses genetic programming to develop bond graphs specifying component topology and parameter values for an example task, designing a passive analog low-pass filter with fifth-order Bessel characteristics. It explores three alternative design approaches. The first uses “standard” GP and evolves designs in which components can take on arbitrary values (i.e., custom design). The second approach adds random noise to each parameter; then, at the end of evolution, for the best design found, it “snaps” its parameter values to a small (component-specific) set of “standard” values. The third approach uses only the small set of allowable standard values throughout the evolutionary process, evaluating each design after addition of noise to each standard parameter value. Then the best designs emerging from each of these three procedures are compared for robustness to parameter variation, evaluating each of them with random perturbations of their parameters. Results indicated that, the third method produced the most robust designs, and the second method was better than the first.
Retrospective Chart Review of Cutaneous Adverse Events Associated with Tremelimumab in 17 Patients

Tremelimumab is a monoclonal human antibody that inhibits cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4, giving rise to increased T cell activation and interleukin-2 release. While this activation of the immune system provides a mechanism to recognize and destroy cancer cells, it also leads to off-target immune-related adverse events. Ipilimumab is a US Food and Drug Administration-approved anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 antibody, which has a high incidence of cutaneous adverse events. While cutaneous adverse events for ipilimumab have been extensively studied, there is a distinct lack of cutaneous adverse event data for tremelimumab. We conducted a retrospective chart review of our institution’s electronic medical records from January 2000 to March 2018 to characterize cutaneous adverse events induced by tremelimumab. Previous descriptions of tremelimumab cutaneous adverse events are limited to rash and pruritus. We found 17 patients treated with tremelimumab who had cutaneous adverse events including pruritus (12/17), eczematous dermatitis (8/17), morbilliform rash (5/17), vitiligo (2/17), xerosis (3/17), acneiform rash (2/17), and psoriasiform dermatitis (1/17). This case series demonstrates that cutaneous adverse events seen in patients taking tremelimumab overlap with those of ipilimumab. While there are some differences between rash characterizations of the two drugs, such as time to onset and clearance, the sample size of this case series is too small to draw any definite conclusions. This study addresses a gap in the descriptive knowledge on tremelimumab cutaneous adverse events and highlights the need for further large cohort prospective studies. Awareness of expected cutaneous toxicities and how best to treat these can help patients continue on immunotherapy regimens without delays or interruptions and give patients the best quality of life while receiving treatment.
Impact of novel antifibrotic therapy on patient outcomes in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: patient selection and perspectives

Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, an incurable, progressive fibrotic interstitial lung disease, suffer an impaired quality of life due to symptoms, resultant functional limitations, and the constraints of supplemental oxygen. Two antifibrotic medications, nintedanib and pirfenidone, are approved for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Both medications slow the rate of decline of lung function, but their effect on patient-reported outcomes is not yet fully understood. Nintedanib may slow the decline in health-related quality of life for treated patients. Pirfenidone may slow the progression of dyspnea and improve cough. Patients and providers should participate in shared decision-making when starting antifibrotic therapy, taking into consideration the benefits of treatment in addition to drug-related side effects and dosing schedules. Although antifibrotic therapy may have an impact on health-related quality of life, providers should also focus on comprehensive care of the patient to improve health-related outcomes. This includes a multidisciplinary evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of comorbid medical conditions, and referral to and participation in a pulmonary rehabilitation program.
H2 Generation from H2O and H2S through an Iodine Cycle

During an investigation of thermochemical methods of H2 generation from H2S, we observed the formation of unexpected products according to the reaction, H2S + 3I2 + 2H2O → 6HI + SO2. When coupled w...
Designing flat bands by strain

Magic angle twisted bilayer graphene (MATBG) is an exciting new system for flat electronic bands and correlated physics. However, heterostrains are ubiquitous in the TBG samples, and their role on the electronic properties has not been clear. Here, the authors show that heterostrains generically broaden the flat bands in MATBG. This explains many puzzling results from transport and scanning tunneling spectroscopy experiments. Furthermore, one can utilize the heterostrain to engineer highly flexible moir\'e flat bands in bilayer transition metal dichalcogenides, suggesting another platform to be exploited.
Between Race and Nation: Marcus Garvey and the Politics of Self-Determination:

This essay argues that Marcus Garvey held a constructivist theory of self-determination, one that saw nationalism and transnationalism as mutually necessary and reinforcing ideals. The argument pro...
CRITERIA-BASED RETURN TO SPRINTING PROGRESSION FOLLOWING LOWER EXTREMITY INJURY.

In the terminal phases of athletic rehabilitation, transitioning back to sport is a critical aspect to prepare an athlete for return to full participation. Numerous interval sport programs have been published in the literature and return to sports guidelines and criteria-based progressions for returning to sport have been published, but no such protocol exists for returning to the task of sprinting. Any field or court athlete must be able to sprint as part of his/her sport demands. Because of the absence of a specific progression, sports rehabilitation professionals lack knowledge about objective criteria to progress to sprinting as well as a progressive program to do so. Given that sports rehabilitation professionals have limited visits to complete rehabilitation or their athletes have limited financial resources to do so, it is imperative that a structured, criteria-based progression be available. The purpose of this clinical suggestion is to provide a criteria-based return to sprinting progression. Level of Evidence: 5
Integral capacitance of diffusion layer for rectangular structures

Abstract Electrical-double-layer capacitors are one of the important devices and systems used in energy storage. In the heart of the electrical-double-layer capacitors is the accumulation of ions/charges on the surfaces of “active” materials. Porous materials, such as carbon nanotubes and activated carbon, have been widely used in the electrical-double-layer capacitors due to large surface area. However, there are limited analytical solutions available for the calculation of the capacitance of porous materials. In this work, we use spectral method to solve linearized Poisson-Boltzmann equation under small electric potential for three different geometrical configurations and obtain analytical expressions of integral capacitances for slab-like structure, rectangular pore and 3D-rectangular box. The numerical results reveal that slit-like structures, such as multilayer graphene, are preferable for the energy storage in the electrical-double-layer capacitors. We also obtain analytical expressions of the integral capacitances for porous materials with parallel, cylindrical and rectangular-like pores of the same cross-sectional area, respectively. The results obtained in this work can also be applied to the design of electrodes of mesosizes and microsizes used in supercapacitors.
Strain suppressed Sn incorporation in GeSn epitaxially grown on Ge/Si(001) substrate

The effects of lattice misfit strain in epitaxial GeSn/Ge/Si(001) heterostructures on Sn incorporation, misfit dislocations (MDs), and the critical thickness were investigated using high-resolution x-ray diffraction. By performing a simulation of the x-ray reciprocal space maps measured in the vicinity of an asymmetrical reflection, we determined the strong correlation between the strain relaxation, density of MDs, and Sn content in the GeSn alloy for a compositional range of 4 to 15 at. %. Herein, we quantitatively describe the phenomenon of strain-suppressed Sn incorporation in GeSn, leading to the formation of top Sn-rich, middle compositionally graded, and bottom Sn-poor regions at fixed growth conditions. It is shown that the thicknesses of the bottom Sn-poor region at which the composition spontaneously changes are correlated with the theoretically predicted critical thickness for the nucleation of MDs. Depending on the degree of strain relaxation in the bottom GeSn layer, the density of MDs at the GeSn/Ge interface varies in the range of ∼2–5 × 105 cm−1 as the Sn content increases from 4 to 12 at. %. The thickness of the compositionally graded region, 160 ± 25 nm, corresponds to the thickness at which the GeSn layer fully relaxes through the interaction/multiplication of MDs. These results contribute to the fundamental understanding that strain engineering is not only crucial to tune the bandgap of Sn-containing group-IV semiconductors but also a key factor for the growth of Sn-rich metastable GeSn layers for mid-infrared photonic devices.
Seeded Hydrogen in Mars Transfer Vehicles Using Nuclear Thermal Propulsion Engines

Using the NASA Design Reference Architecture, an Aerojet Rocketdyne vehicle architecture, and a University of Alabama in Huntsville nuclear thermal propulsion engine model, the performance of a Mar...