cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Airfield Pavement Deterioration Assessment Using Stress-dependent Neural Network Models

In this study, an artificial neural network (ANN)-based approach was employed to backcalculate the asphalt concrete and non-linear stress-dependent subgrade moduli from non-destructive test (NDT) data acquired at the Federal Aviation Administration's National Airport Pavement Test Facility (NAPTF) during full-scale traffic testing. The ANN models were trained with results from an axisymmetric finite element pavement structural model. Using the ANN-predicted moduli based on the NDT test results, the relative severity effects of simulated Boeing 777 (B777) and Boeing 747 (B747) aircraft gear trafficking on the structural deterioration of NAPTF flexible pavement test sections were characterized. The results indicate the potential of using lower force amplitude NDT test data for routine airport pavement structural evaluation, as long as they generate sufficient deflections for reliable data acquisition. Therefore, NDT tests that employ force amplitudes at prototypical aircraft loading may not be necessary to ...
Portable bacterial identification system based on elastic light scatter patterns

Conventional diagnosis and identification of bacteria requires shipment of samples to a laboratory for genetic and biochemical analysis. This process can take days and imposes significant delay to action in situations where timely intervention can save lives and reduce associated costs. To enable faster response to an outbreak, a low-cost, small-footprint, portable microbial-identification instrument using forward scatterometry has been developed. This device, weighing 9 lb and measuring 12 × 6 × 10.5 in., utilizes elastic light scatter (ELS) patterns to accurately capture bacterial colony characteristics and delivers the classification results via wireless access. The overall system consists of two CCD cameras, one rotational and one translational stage, and a 635-nm laser diode. Various software algorithms such as Hough transform, 2-D geometric moments, and the traveling salesman problem (TSP) have been implemented to provide colony count and circularity, centering process, and minimized travel time among colonies. Experiments were conducted with four bacteria genera using pure and mixed plate and as proof of principle a field test was conducted in four different locations where the average classification rate ranged between 95 and 100%.
For blighted waves of grain: Fusarium graminearum in the postgenomics era.

Fungi display astounding diversity in their pathogenicity. We categorize them as biotrophs or necrotrophs and as obligate or facultative pathogens, but these categories do not reflect their polymorphic nature. Our approach to controlling disease would be better served by improving our understanding
The Mobilization of Voters in Congressional Elections

Why is it that some voters go to the polls on election day, and others do not? Scholars of electoral turnout have too often restricted themselves to a relatively narrow range of independent variables, and have failed to include important political influences in analyses. In this study, grounded in the data of the 1978 National Election Study and augmented by additional contextual variables, we develop five alternative models of electoral turnout--legal restrictions, socioeconomic characteristics, social-psychological attitudes, economic conditions, and political mobilization. We especially emphasize the mobilization of voters via campaign spending, partisan competition, contestation of elections, and the presence of other, more salient races. Political mobilization survives and thrives even when we take into account the more conventional explanations of turnout at the polls. In conclusion, we suggest that accountings for participation which omit political mobilization are partial and suspect.
Overall C as a measure of discrimination in survival analysis: model specific population value and confidence interval estimation

The assessment of the discrimination ability of a survival analysis model is a problem of considerable theoretical interest and important practical applications. This issue is, however, more complex than evaluating the performance of a linear or logistic regression. Several different measures have been proposed in the biostatistical literature. In this paper we investigate the properties of the overall C index introduced by Harrell as a natural extension of the ROC curve area to survival analysis. We develop the overall C index as a parameter describing the performance of a given model applied to the population under consideration and discuss the statistic used as its sample estimate. We discover a relationship between the overall C and the modified Kendall's tau and construct a confidence interval for our measure based on the asymptotic normality of its estimate. Then we investigate via simulations the length and coverage probability of this interval. Finally, we present a real life example evaluating the performance of a Framingham Heart Study model.
Violence Against Women and Asylum Seeking: Global Problems and Local Practices Applied to Guatemalan Women Immigrating for Safety

This paper, based on broader discussions surrounding gender violence and immigration in the U.S., provides critical information on the historical context of extreme violence against women and femicide plaguing Central American societies today. Drawing on experiences of precedent setting cases of Guatemalan women, the authors offer suggestions for culturally specific treatment of and support for women who seek asylum in the U.S. out of justified fear for their and their family members’ lives should they return to their country of origin. The arguments presented are predicated on the belief that women worldwide share experiences of myriad forms of male domination and gender inequality which, however, play out differently on their bodies and lives in ways that must be accounted for in our attempt to offer them appropriate care and assist them in creating the tools they need to change their circumstances.
Has Their Son Been Vaccinated? Beliefs About Other Parents Matter for Human Papillomavirus Vaccine

The goal of this study was to determine if parents’ beliefs about social norms of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for sons were associated with knowledge of HPV, intention to vaccinate sons, or beliefs about side effects. A cross-sectional, survey-based study of parents with sons was performed in 2010. Fisher’s exact tests were used to examine associations between demographics and responses about social norms. Multivariate logistic regression models examined beliefs about social norms of male HPV vaccination and primary outcomes. Few parents agreed that others were vaccinating sons (n = 31/267, 12%), including 1% responding strongly agree and 11% responding agree. Most parents, 52%, disagreed that others were vaccinating (40% disagree, 11% strongly disagree), and 37% chose prefer not to answer regarding others’ vaccination practices. Hispanic parents and those with a high school education or less were significantly more likely to choose prefer not to answer than their respective counterparts regard...
Simulation studies of micrometer scale dielectric barrier discharges for microthruster applications

Summary form only given. The recently designed Microplasma thruster employs the use of direct-current (DC) microdischarge to cause heating of argon gas during the expansion process through a nozzle. This helps in enhancing the cold gas thrust. However, one of the deficiencies of direct-current microdischarges is the need for exposed electrodes that incur ion bombardment with large thermal fluxes and consequently subject to wear. A different approach is to use an alternating current (AC) with electrodes covered by a suitable dielectric to prevent electrode erosion. The discharge will then be similar to a micrometer scale Dielectric Barrier Discharge (micro-DBD). It is thus important to investigate the power densities that are attained by this system and assess its effectiveness in gas heating. Classical large-scale (mm gap) Dielectric Barrier Discharges (DBD) is used in excimer lamps, ozone generation and in materials processing and are not subject to any significant gas heating. In this study we compare the gas heating effects in a micro-DBD and a classical large-scale DBD over a range of frequencies.A detailed first-principles computational model is used to provide time-accurate solutions of multi-species, multitemperature, self consistent plasma governing equations for the discharge physics. We use a finite rate argon chemistry which has been validated through simulations on micro hollow cathode discharges. The paper will present details of important discharge parameters, power densities and gas temperature in a micro DBD and a millimeter scale classic DBD.
Rheological implications of heterogeneous deformation at multiple scales in the Late Cretaceous Sierra Nevada, California

Late Cretaceous deformation in the east-central Sierra Nevada arc of California was heterogeneous at multiple scales. We quantify this heterogeneous deformation at centimeter, meter, and kilometer scales in the vicinity of the Gem Lake shear zone and infer variations in effective viscosity from our data. At the centimeter scale, variations in strain of different clast types in conglomerate suggest that effective viscosities varied by less than an order of magnitude. Lithology controlled the magnitude and nature of deformation recorded by clasts. At the meter scale, cleavage refraction between stratigraphic layers records variations in finite strain. Comparison of our observations with cleavage refraction models suggests a maximum effective viscosity contrast of ∼10 between layers. Bulk composition controls variations in deformation of the different layers. At the kilometer scale, variation in finite-strain magnitude and orientation in similar rock types both within and outside the shear zone demonstrates that deformation inside the zone was relatively intense. Comparing these results to numerical models of heterogeneous regional deformation, we estimate that the angle of oblique convergence inside the zone was ∼15 ± 10°, while outside it was greater than 60°. These kilometer-scale results imply regional deformation was moderately strike-slip partitioned during the Late Cretaceous and suggest regional effective viscosity varied by a factor between 6 and 17. At each scale of observation, the apparent range of effective viscosity varies by an order of magnitude or less. Consequently, we infer that relatively modest strength variations produced the structures observed at hand sample to tectonic scales.
Initial evaluation of the Older Adult Social-Evaluative Situations Questionnaire: a measure of social anxiety in older adults.

Background: The assessment of social anxiety in late life has been examined in few studies (e.g. Gretarsdottir et al., 2004; Ciliberti et al., 2011). The present study describes the creation and initial psychometric evaluation of a new, content valid measure of social anxiety for older adults, the Older Adult Social-Evaluative Situations Questionnaire (OASES). Methods: Psychometric properties of the OASES were evaluated in a community dwelling sample of older adults (N = 137; 70.8% female). Convergent validity was established by examining the relation between the OASES and the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS), Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory (SPAI), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Discriminant validity was established by examining the relation between the OASES and measures of depression (Geriatric Depression Scale, GDS), perceived health status (Short Form Health Survey, SF-12), and demographic variables. The validity analyses of the OASES were based on a smaller sample with n values ranging from 98 to 137 depending on missing data on each questionnaire. Results: Internal consistency, measured by Cronbach's α, for the OASES total score was 0.96. All items on the OASES were endorsed by participants. Convergent validity was demonstrated by medium to large correlations with the SPAI, LSAS, and BAI. Support for discriminant validity was evidenced by small to medium correlations between the OASES and GDS, SF-12, and demographic variables. Conclusions: Evidence in support of convergent and discriminant validity of the OASES is discussed. Although the results from the present study suggest that this measure may assess anxiety in and avoidance of social situations salient to older adults, future studies are needed to further examine the psychometric properties of the OASES and replicate these results in both clinical and more diverse samples of older adults.
Changes in frequencies of chromosomal aberrations and sister chromatid exchanges during confluent holding recovery in X-irradiated normal human diploid fibroblasts.

SummaryThe time course of the changes in survival and cytogenetic damage was studied in X-irradiated cultures of human diploid fibroblasts before release from density-inhibition of growth. The frequency of chromosomal aberrations declined rapidly during the initial 2 h recovery interval in parallel with an enhancement in survival. The frequency of sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) increased during this interval reaching a maximum of 2 h, then declined. These changes are discussed in relation to previous observations on X-ray induced cytogenetic damage and malignant transformation in rodent cells under similar conditions.
Participation in the Wake of Adversity: Blame Attribution and Policy-Oriented Evaluations

In this paper we investigate to what extent perceptions of economic conditions, policy-oriented evaluations, and blame attribution affected Californians’ involvement in political activities in 2010. We use a statistical methodology that allows us to study not only the behavior of the average citizen, but also the behavior of “types” of citizens with latent predispositions that incline them toward participation or abstention. The 2010 election is an excellent case study, because it was a period when citizens were still suffering the consequences of the 2008 financial crisis and many were concerned about the state’s budgetary crisis. We find that individuals who blamed one of the parties for the problems with the budget process, and who held a position on the 2010 Affordable Care Act, were often considerably more likely to participate. We also find, however, that the impact of economic evaluations, positions on the health care reform, and blame attributions was contingent on citizens’ latent participation propensities and depended on the class of political activity.
Trading Truth for Legitimacy in the Liberal State: Defending John Rawls’s Pragmatism

Abstract Post-Enlightenment liberalism faces a paradox: The liberal principle of legitimacy demands states justify their constitutional order in terms citizens can accept, but there is no uncontroversial comprehensive conception of justice on which to form the requisite consensus. Rawls resolves the paradox by embracing a pragmatism that abandons the concept of truth in the political forum to secure consensus and legitimacy. Philosophers have challenged the idea of justice without truth as incoherent, and social critics have attacked it as naive. This chapter defends Rawls’s pragmatism against such critics and argues that the future of liberal constitutionalism may depend on its success.
Lipoprotein (a) measurements for clinical application

The high degree of size heterogeneity of apo(a), the distinct protein component of lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)], renders the development and selection of specific antibodies directed to apo(a) more difficult and poses significant challenges to the development of immunoassays to measure its concentration in plasma or serum samples. Apo(a) is extremely variable in size not only between but also within individuals because of the presence of two different, genetically determined apo(a) isoform sizes. Therefore, the antigenic determinants per particle available to interact with the antibodies will vary in the samples and the calibrators, thus contributing to apo(a) size-dependent inaccuracy of different methods. The lack of rigorous validation of the immunoassays and common means of expressing Lp(a) concentrations hinder the harmonization of results obtained by different studies and contribute to the lack of common cut points for identification of individuals at risk for coronary artery disease or for interventions aimed at reducing Lp(a) levels. The aim of our review is to present and critically evaluate the issues surrounding the measurements of Lp(a), their impact on the clinical interpretation of the data, and the obstacles we need to overcome to achieve the standardization of Lp(a) measurements.
Courtship and Mating Habits of an Asilid Fly, Cyrtopogon marginalis

In late May 1969 the robber-fly, Cyrtopogon marginalis Loew, was unusually abundant in a rocky pasture in Gilbertville, Mass., alighting on exposed stones and dried logs in sunny situations and feeding on a variety of small flying insects. In 2 afternoons the author netted 73 individuals, and many more remained. During this time observations were made on the interesting courtship and mating habits of this fly.
Identification of a BRCA1-associated kinase with potential biological relevance

A biochemical approach was used to identify proteins which interact with human BRCA1. Through this work, a kinase activity which co-purifies with BRCA1 has been identified. This kinase activity, which phosphorylates BRCA1 in vitro, was originally identified in Sf9 insect cells but is also present in cells of human origin including breast and ovarian carcinoma cell lines. The BRCA1 kinase activity in vitro is associated with a fragment of BRCA1 encompassing amino acids 329-435. This peptide is also phosphorylated in various human cell lines. A computer-assisted sequence analysis revealed that this peptide was a potential substrate for phosphorylation by PKA, PKC, or CKII. However, phosphorylation by these kinases could not be demonstrated in vitro indicating the presence of another kinase activity. Phosphorylation in vitro requires a minimal domain of BRCA1 encompassing amino acids 379-408. Notably, deletion of this minimal domain abolishes growth suppression by BRCA1 indicating that this domain, as well as phosphorylation within this domain, may be important for BRCA1 function.
Development of Low Molecular Weight Ferrocene–Biotin Bioconjugates as Electrochemical Sensors

A library of ferrocene–biotin bioconjugates has been produced using solid phase methods and evaluated for a change in redox activity in the presence of avidin. This was carried out as a means to ex...
Evaluating toxic alcohol poisoning in the emergency setting

Ingestion of a toxic alcohol often occurs when an alcoholic patient cannot obtain ethanol and thus, seeks an ethanol substitute. Methanol produces visual disturbances, while ethylene glycol produces pulmonary and renal disturbances. Ingestion of isopropanol results in acetone production that can lead to central nervous system depression. Unlike methanol and ethylene glycol poisoning, however, isopropanol poisoning generally does not produce major disturbances in acid-base balance. Most clinical laboratories do not perform toxic alcohol analyses. Thus, the clinician relies on interpretation of other clinical laboratory data to ascertain the presence or absence of a toxic alcohol.
Constriction of retinal arterioles to endothelin-1: requisite role of rho kinase independent of protein kinase C and L-type calcium channels.

PURPOSE Although endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent vasoconstrictor peptide implicated in several retinal pathologies, the underlying mechanism of vasoconstriction is understood incompletely. We addressed this issue by assessing the contributions of extracellular calcium (Ca²⁺), L-type voltage-operated calcium channels (L-VOCCs), Rho kinase (ROCK), and protein kinase C (PKC) to ET-1-induced constriction of porcine retinal arterioles, all of which have been implicated commonly in vascular smooth muscle contraction. METHODS Porcine retinal arterioles (~50-100 μm) were isolated for vasomotor study and molecular assessment of ROCK isoforms. RESULTS Isolated arterioles developed stable basal tone at 55 cmH₂O luminal pressure and constricted to ET-1 (0.1 nM) with a 40 ± 6% reduction in resting diameter in 20 minutes. In the absence of extraluminal Ca²⁺, arterioles lost basal tone and failed to constrict to ET-1. Although L-VOCC inhibitor nifedipine reduced basal tone and blocked vasoconstriction to PKC activator PDBu, vasoconstriction to ET-1 was unaffected. The broad-spectrum PKC inhibitor Go-6983 abolished vasoconstriction to PDBu, but did not alter ET-1-induced vasoconstriction or basal tone. Incubation of arterioles with ROCK inhibitor H-1152 abolished basal tone and vasoconstrictions to ET-1 and PDBu. Both ROCK1 and ROCK2 isoforms were expressed in the retinal arteriolar wall. CONCLUSIONS Extracellular Ca²⁺ entry via L-VOCCs and basal ROCK activity play important roles in the maintenance of basal tones of porcine retinal arterioles. ET-1-induced constriction is mediated by extracellular Ca²⁺ entry independent of L-VOCCs and by ROCK activation without the involvement of PKC. However, direct PKC activation can cause vasoconstriction via L-VOCC and ROCK signaling.
Determination of 10 Plant Growth Regulators in Bean Sprouts by Sequential Cleaning-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

A sequential clean-up method was developed for the quantification of 10 plant growth regulators in bean sprout by the gas chromatography / mass spectrometry( GC / MS). The analytes were firstly extracted by the acided acetonitrile. Extraction was concentrated and re-dissovled by methanol. Then,it was divided to two aliquots. One of that was analyzed for 2,4-D-butyl ester and 2,4-D-ethyl ester after the purification by QuECHERS cartridge. Another one was treated by MCS solid phase extraction column including diverse eluting steps. After eluting by 5 mL methanol,composition 1 was obtain,concentrated,and methyl esterified by 10% boron trifluoride methanol solution. The treated extract was used for the determination of 4-chlorophenoxy acetic acid,β-naphthyl acetic acid,2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid,indole acetic acid and indole butyric acid. Composition 2 collected by eluting with 5 mL 5% amonium methanol was used for the determination of paclobutrazol, Kinetin, 6-Benzylaminopurine. The clean-up procedures are designed according to different chemistry properties of these plant growth regulators. The results showed that after spiking of 0. 01- 0. 1 mg / kg selected plant growth regulators,average recovery ranged from 70. 0% to 93. 2% and relative standard deviation were 5. 2%- 12. 3%. Limit of quantification( LOQ S / N≥10) and limit of detection( LOD S / N≥3) were 0. 01- 0. 025 mg / kg and 0. 003- 0. 008 mg / kg respectively. The developed purification method is easy,fast and accurate,and can be applied to routine test of plant growth regulators in bean sprout.
Investigation on neutralized antibody of polio in different economic geographical districts in Chongqing municipality

Objective To know the immunity levels of polio neutralized antibody of people in Chongqing municipality,and discover the weaknesses in polio immunization performance. Methods Three levels were divided according to Chongqing's geographyic features,7 age groups with 30 objects in each group were randomly chosen to have serology and questionnaire study at each level. Results ①Geometric mean titers( GMTs) of neutralized antibodies positive to type I and Ⅲ were 1∶ 77. 86,1∶ 76. 5 and 1∶ 26. 41 respectively. The rates of neutralized antibodies positive to type Ⅰ,Ⅱ,andⅢ were 85. 85%、90. 78% and 73. 29% respectively. ② The GMTs' value of the three types showed a decreasing trend with the increase of the age. ③The GMTs' value of I and II of male were higher than that of female. ④The GMTs' value and rates of neutralized antibodies positive of people with oral polio vaccine( OPV) history were higher than that of the people without OPV history or unknown OPV history group. ⑤ Statistic difference existed in geographic distribution of the rates of neutralized antibodies positive to typeⅠand Ⅲ. Conclusions Rates of neutralized antibodies of polio were above 70. 00% in Chongqing municipality,while GMTs' value showed a decreasing trend with the increase of age. In the poorer areas,the quality evaluation of immunization should be enhanced,and supplement immunization of polio should be carried out for elder children and adults timely.
Acid/Base Multi-Ion Exchange Membrane-Based Electrolysis System for Water Splitting

Water electrolysis potentially represents an environmentally friendly method for scalable hydrogen production and for intermittent renewable energy storage. Yet cost and high reaction overpotentials limit widespread implementation. Here, an electrolysis cell architecture that uses dissimilar electrolytes is shown to minimize the kinetic and thermodynamic considerations ascribed to electrolysis. The use of multiple monopolar ion exchange membranes (anion and cation selective) and multiple chambers (anolyte, catholyte, middle) allows stable electrolysis operation while a pH gradient is maintained across the electrolysis cell. This reduced the hydrogen and oxygen evolution onset potential by 0.65± 0.03 and 0.62± 0.01 V, resulting in a whole cell onset potential for water splitting of 0.79± 0.02 V. The reduced onset potential was demonstrated for >15 h of operation under fixed current density, resulting in a decrease in energy consumption by 56 % when compared to similar pH electrolysis cells.
Evolving the Evolving: Territory, Place and Rewilding in the California Delta

Current planning and legislation in California’s Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta call for the large-scale ecological restoration of aquatic and terrestrial habitats. These ecological mandates have emerged in response to the region’s infrastructural transformation and the Delta’s predominant use as the central logistical hub in the state’s vast water conveyance network. Restoration is an attempt to recover what was externalized by the logic and abstractions of this logistical infrastructure. However, based on findings from our research, which examined how people are using restored and naturalized landscapes in the Delta and how these landscapes are currently planned for, we argue that as mitigatory response, restoration planning continues some of the same spatial abstractions and inequities by failing to account for the Delta as an urbanized, cultural and unique place. In interpreting how these conditions have come to be, we give attention to a pluralistic landscape approach and a coevolutionary reading of planning, policy, science and landscapes to discuss the conservation challenges presented by “Delta as an Evolving Place”. We suggest that for rewilding efforts to be successful in the Delta, a range of proactive, opportunistic, grounded and participatory tactics will be required to shift towards a more socio-ecological approach.
Rapid Quantitative Analysis of Multiple Explosive Compound Classes on a Single Instrument via Flow-Injection Analysis Tandem Mass Spectrometry.

Abstract : ABSTRACT: A flow injection analysis (FIA) tandem mass spectrometry (MSMS) method was developed for rapid quantitativeanalysis of 10 different inorganic and organic explosives. Performance is optimized by tailoring the ionization method,declustering potentials, and collision energies for each specific analyte. In doing so, a single instrument can be used to detecturea nitrate (UN), potassium chlorate (PC), 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), 2,4,6-trinitrophenylmethylnitramine (tetryl), triacetonetriperoxide (TATP), hexamethylene triperoxide diamine (HMTD), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), 1,3,5-trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), nitroglycerin (NG) and octohydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) withsensitivities all in the picogram per milliliter range. Atmospheric-pressure chemical-ionization (APCI) was used for all of theexplosives except for UN and PC, where the best sensitivity was achieved using electrospray ionization (ESI). The use ofMSMS mode targeting both precursor and fragment ions provides for two-dimensional separations, thereby eliminating theneed for chromatography, even in complex matrices. By obviating the need for chromatography, the total analysis time isreduced to less than one minute per sample whereas the inter-day and intra-day relative standard deviations of 5% and10%, respectively, compare favorably to existing methods. Use of a single instrument for detection of multiple explosiveclasses also reduces the instrumentation capital cost and footprint for forensic-quality explosives detection. In conclusion,FIA APCI/ESI MSMS is a fast (1 min/sample), sensitive (pg/mL LOQ), and precise (intraday RSD10%) method fortrace explosive detection that can play an important role in criminal and attributional forensics, counterterrorism and environmentalprotection areas, and has the potential to augment or replace several of the existing explosive detection methods.
The Power of Parents: Parent-Implemented Interventions for Young Children with Autism

Parent-implemented intervention refers to teaching parents to implement specific programs or strategies with their child. Parent-implemented intervention has been shown to improve child outcomes related to communication, play, and social interaction. This chapter provides an introduction to parent-implanted intervention and step-by-step procedures and tools for teaching and supporting parents of young children with autism to implement research-based interventions.
A Sensitivity Study of the Impact of Installation Parameters and System Configuration on the Performance of Bifacial PV Arrays

In this paper, we present the effect of installation parameters (tilt angle, height above ground, and albedo) on the bifacial gain and energy yield of three south-facing photovoltaic (PV) system configurations: a single module, a row of five modules, and five rows of five modules utilizing RADIANCE-based ray tracing model. We show that height and albedo have a direct impact on the performance of bifacial systems. However, the impact of the tilt angle is more complicated. Seasonal optimum tilt angles are dependent on parameters such as height, albedo, size of the system, weather conditions, and time of the year. For a single bifacial module installed in Albuquerque, NM, USA (35 °N) with a reasonable clearance (∼1 m) from the ground, the seasonal optimum tilt angle is lowest (∼5°) for the summer solstice and highest (∼65°) for the winter solstice. For larger systems, seasonal optimum tilt angles are usually higher and can be up to 20° greater than that for a single module system. Annual simulations also indicate that for larger fixed-tilt systems installed on a highly reflective ground (such as snow or a white roofing material with an albedo of ∼81%), the optimum tilt angle is higher than the optimum angle of the smaller size systems. We also show that modules in larger scale systems generate lower energy due to horizon blocking and large shadowing area cast by the modules on the ground. For albedo of 21%, the center module in a large array generates up to 7% less energy than a single bifacial module. To validate our model, we utilize measured data from Sandia National Laboratories’ fixed-tilt bifacial PV testbed and compare it with our simulations.
Two New Land Snail Species in Kansas

New collections of terrestrial gastropods in Kansas have extended the number of known land snail species by two. Xolotrema fosteri (F. C. Baker, 1921), the Bladetooth Wedge, was found in 11 counties and Ventridens demissus (A. Binney, 1843), the Perforate Dome, was found in a single county.
Fifteen Years of Ultrafiltration: Problems and Future Promises of an Adolescent Technology

Despite the fact that the term “ultrafiltration” first appeared in the colloid chemical literature toward the end of the last century, the emergence of ultrafiltration as a viable and practicable separation process had its origins with the development of the first synthetic, high-hydraulic-permeability, macrosolute-retentive ultrafiltration membrane in 1963. This development was an evolutionary consequence of the discovery of the asymmetric cellulose acetate reverse osmosis membrane of the late 1950’s, and the discovery of polyelectrolyte complex hydrogels and their anomalous water-transport properties in research at MIT in the early I960’s. It is a curious fact that the UF membrane development was a direct consequence of a collaboration between Amicon Corporation and Dorr-Oliver, Inc. initiated in 1963 for the purpose of developing an economical process for the large-scale removal of colloidal and macromolecular impurities from secondary sewage effluent — an application which yet remains to be widely exploited. These first-generation membranes, which were shown to be asymmetric structures resembling the Loeb/Sourirajan RO membranes, were relatively water-impermeable by present-day UF membrane standards, but were nonetheless several orders of magnitude more permeable than homogeneous gel-membrane structures with comparable solute retentivity.
FROM FOREST TO RESERVATION: TRANSITIONS IN FOOD-SHARING BEHAVIOR AMONG THE ACHE OF PARAGUAY

This article presents detailed quantitative descriptions of food distributions among a group of forager-horticulturalists, the Ache of Paraguay. Food transfer patterns for Ache during periods of nomadic foraging are compared with those of Ache living a horticulture-based existence at a permanent settlement. We further explore how characteristics of resources and the methods of production, group size, and the spatial landscape can influence the kinds of social arrangements found among the Ache. The results of these analyses are used to generate general predictions regarding food sharing and cooperation among other foraging and transitional horticultural populations.
Modulation of Synaptic Plasticity: A Theoretical Approach

The study of the processing of information during learning and memory has been approached from different points of view: behaviorally (25,26,38,42), theoretically (1,2,12,21,26,37,41) and physiologically (6,22,23,24,27,28,35,49). It has been difficult, however, to relate the results obtained by these different approaches. For this reason, the study of simple processes such as habituation, which has been extensively studied in vertebrates and invertebrates behaviorally (15,16,17,26,38,43,44,45,52,53), physiologically (10,13,14,22,23 24,27,28,49,50,51,54,55,57), and theoretically (1,13,14,16,17,43, 44,45,46,52,53), provides the possibility of analyzing the complex processing of information and establishing similarities and differences in the mechanisms. We will briefly review the relevant points in both the behavioral and the physiological studies of habituation, indicating their similarities and differences, and possible ways to relate them.
Mutational Activation of KRAS and BRAF in Colorectal Cancer

The failure of farnesyltransferase inhibitors to show antitumor activity against KRAS-mutant malignancies diminished enthusiasm for efforts to develop anti-Ras inhibitors for cancer treatment. However, two recent developments have rekindled interest in these endeavors. First, genome-wide exome sequencing verified that mutational activation of the KRAS gene is the most prevalent oncogene mutation in colorectal cancer (CRC). Second, a major step toward the application of personalized medicine for CRC was taken when mutant KRAS was established as a prognostic marker for resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody therapy. Thus, there is renewed and considerable interest in understanding the role of KRAS mutation in CRC progression and growth and in developing pharmacologic approaches for blocking aberrant K-Ras protein function for CRC treatment. Since the K-Ras protein itself is considered “undruggable,” current strategies to develop anti-K-Ras inhibitors have focused on antagonists of K-Ras downstream effector signaling. The frequent mutational activation of BRAF, which is mutually with KRAS activation, suggests that the encoded B-Raf serine/threonine kinase and activation of the ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade is a key driver of mutant K-Ras-dependent CRC growth. In this review, we summarize the importance of mutant K-Ras and B-Raf in CRC growth and current efforts in targeting the Raf-MEK-ERK cascade for CRC treatment.
Malignant bowel obstructions

Abstract Malignant large bowel obstructions (LBO) present a unique and often challenging problem that requires thoughtful consideration of both short and long-term outcomes. Presentations can vary, but the patient will often need urgent or emergent intervention. Primary colorectal cancer accounts for the majority of malignant LBOs making this topic particularly important for the colon and rectal surgeon. Currently there are 3 main treatment strategies for potentially curable disease: Fecal diversion, primary resection with or without diversion, or colonic stent placement followed by elective resection. Stenting is also being used in palliative circumstances. The following chapter outlines the latest literature in malignant LBOs and provides algorithms for both emergent and elective cases.
ELDER ABUSE AMID THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC: APS CASES IN RURAL AMERICA

Older adults are hidden victims of the opioid crises, suffering abuse at the hands of those who seek resources to support their addiction. Using APS data from 2015-2017 provided by the Kentucky Department for Community-Based Services, we used a logistic regression model with robust standard errors to examine whether substantiated cases of elder abuse were associated with opioid misuse by perpetrators. Overall, 9% of the 462 substantiated cases over the three-year period involved perpetrators were substance users. The percentage of these cases rose from 5% in 2015 to 13% in 2016 before dropping to 7% of elder abuse cases in 2017. Opioid use was most prevalent among perpetrators of financial abuse of older adults with cognitive and/or physical care needs. The current study offers a first look at empirical linkages between opioid misuse and elder abuse and revealed consistencies across cases that call for further investigation.
Permeation of CO2 and N2 through glassy poly(dimethyl phenylene) oxide under steady‐ and presteady‐state conditions

Author(s): Soniat, M; Tesfaye, M; Mafi, A; Brooks, DJ; Humphrey, ND; Weng, LC; Merinov, B; Goddard, WA; Weber, AZ; Houle, FA | Abstract: Glassy polymers are often used for gas separations because of their high selectivity. Although the dual-mode permeation model correctly fits their sorption and permeation isotherms, its physical interpretation is disputed, and it does not describe permeation far from steady state, a condition expected when separations involve intermittent renewable energy sources. To develop a more comprehensive permeation model, we combine experiment, molecular dynamics, and multiscale reaction–diffusion modeling to characterize the time-dependent permeation of N2 and CO2 through a glassy poly(dimethyl phenylene oxide) membrane, a model system. Simulations of experimental time-dependent permeation data for both gases in the presteady-state and steady-state regimes show that both single- and dual-mode reaction–diffusion models reproduce the experimental observations, and that sorbed gas concentrations lag the external pressure rise. The results point to environment-sensitive diffusion coefficients as a vital characteristic of transport in glassy polymers.
FAR infrared spectroscopy of superconducting NB 3 GE films

Nb 3 Ge, with its high T c of 23K has been examined by tunneling. but far infrared spectroscopy has been used only in the normal state.1 Here we present the first far infrared transmission and reflection measurements near the gap on thin Nb 3 Ge films below T c . One main result is the observation that like other high-T c materials (e.g. V 3 Si and NbN) which lie between the extreme dirty and extreme anomalous limits. Nb 3 Ge's optical properties require a finite scattering time for their description. A second is that the data can be explained only by the assumption of a layer of normal or low-Tc material between the top superconducting layer and the substrate. This result, shows how far infrared radiation, penetrating the entire film, gives information not available from tunneling experiments, which probe only a coherence length.
Input-Oriented Chemicals Management Along the Textile Supply Chain

In the textile supply chain—specifically in textile finishing—chemicals play a crucial role. The amount, kind and the processing conditions of chemicals bear considerable impact on environmental performance as well as occupational and consumer safety. For this reason, chemicals management should be focused upon as well as addressed commonly and in a coordinated manner. In the following, it is investigated to what extent input-oriented chemicals management illustrates a solution for the highly complex and seemingly impenetrable global textile supply chain. The relevant stakeholders—chemical suppliers, textile manufacturers and brands—are defined by means of their tasks and interrelation with each other within the supply chain. Further, instruments for chemicals management—that can reach from meeting legal requirements up to taking voluntary actions such as testing and a system-oriented approach—and their effectiveness will be explained. In specific, foundational elements of a system-oriented approach will be defined by ascribing responsibilities to stakeholders regarding the choice and application of textile chemicals. Thereby, a positive list of analyzed and assessed textile chemicals is introduced as an efficient tool. It will become clear that the concept of ‘product stewardship’ and its consequent implementation throughout the entire textile supply chain represents the key to an increasingly sustainable textile production. All players in the supply chain need to be willing to approach alternatives and to follow a chemicals management strategy, which goes hand in hand with ‘chemicals change management’ and induces companies to think one step further, rethink and foremost do not think short-term.
SHARPGrads: Development and Assessment of a Research Skills Workshop Program for Graduate Students at the University of South Carolina

INTRODUCTION Academic libraries are placing increasing emphasis on the provision of instruction for graduate students in non-traditional research skills and competencies such as scholarly communication concepts, data management and visualization, and text mining. Since proficiency in these concepts is often expected of graduate students but training may not be offered in the classroom, the library is a natural home for such instruction. DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM Librarians at the University of South Carolina created a two-day workshop series for graduate students called SHARPGrads. This paper describes the planning process, survey method used to develop and assess the program, and findings obtained from attendance and survey responses. A successful collaboration with the university’s Graduate School led to higher than expected registration. Post-assessment feedback demonstrates that targeting training to graduate students early in their program of study is advantageous. Furthermore, students in social sciences and humanities disciplines reported that SHARPGrads met their expectations to a higher degree than students in the sciences and health sciences. Although a number of survey respondents reported that the training program was too short, participant retention during day two of the program dropped significantly. NEXT STEPS An evaluation of the range of second day training opportunities is considered for the next iteration of the program. Results taken from this study and recommendations for future programs will be useful for librarians involved in the development and implementation of workshops for graduate students.
From the LDM Division Chair

The Luminescence and Display Division (LDM), formed only in 1993 (a rather "young" group relative to many of the "classic" ECS Divisions), provides a forum for all aspects of light-emitting processes and techniques for their implementation.
Separate but Interacting Calcium Stores

Mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ stores is a principal signaling mechanism employed by cells to respond to a wide variety of stimuli, both external and internal. One of the most dramatic examples occurs during fertilization. Immediately after sperm-egg fusion, a highly localized Ca2+ elevation is initiated right at the fusion site. This spark of Ca2+ then grows into a wave propagating across the entire egg. Intriguingly, the initiation of apoptotic cell death also involves Ca2+ mobilization. How cells can differentiate between Ca2+ signals as disparate as those governing life and death is a question of fundamental importance.
Constituents of the cotton bud—VII.

Abstract The only anthocyanin m cotton buds and flowers of Gossypium hirsutum L., var. Delta Pine Smooth Leaf, was identified as chrysanthemin, the 3-β-monoglucoside of cynidin. Buds and flowers contained 0-030 and 0-041 per cent pigment, respectively.
Immunoglobulin biosynthesis: III. Blocks in defective synthesis

Abstract Mouse myeloma mutants derived from ADJPC5, MOPC104 and X5563 were compared with their wild types with respect to heavy and light chain synthesis and immunoglobulin assembly. It was shown that two mutants which secrete only light chain synthesize a heavy chain. There was a block in the dimerization of heavy and light chain which produces the LH intermediate in IgG and IgM immunoglobulin-producing plasma cell tumors. Neither heavy nor light chain synthesis was detected in the third mutant, which secreted no unique protein. Immunoglobulin biosynthesis, control, and secretion are discussed in relation to these mutants.
Potential halogenated industrial carcinogenic and mutagenic chemicals. IV. Halogenated aryl derivatives.

Abstract A variety of halogenated aryl derivatives possess significant activity as solvents for pesticides, heat transfer agents, pesticide intermediates, additives for rubber products, intermediates in organic synthesis and as insect repellants and deodorants. Ortho - and para -dichlorobenzenes; 1,2,4-trichloro- and hexachlorobenzene, as well as bromobenzenes and benzylchloride were reviewed principally in terms of their synthesis, areas of utility, stability, distribution, reactivity, levels of exposure, populations at risk, metabolism, carcinogenicity and mutagenicity.
Cultural Frame Switching

Cultural frame switching refers to the phenomenon of shifting from one cultural mindset to another as a result of recent exposure to a cultural prime. Biculturals shift their interpretive frames based on which of their cultures was most recently activated, whether they are primed with iconic images of a culture, symbols such as language, or group-based stereotypes. Primed biculturals exhibit responses to subsequent measures (e.g., causal attribution, values, group identification, personality traits) that match those of typical monocultural individuals in prior cross-cultural research. For example, used cross-cultural finding that European North Americans project emotions egocentrically (e.g., perceive one's own emotional state as being experienced by others) and Asian North Americans project emotions relationally (e.g., perceive emotions in others that are relationally linked to one's own emotional state, for instance perceiving fear in others when one experiences anger) to show that Korean Americans primed with American cultural icons responded as typical White Americans would on a measure of emotion projection (e.g., more egocentrically), yet responded as typical Koreans in Korea would when primed with Korean cultural icons (e.g., more relationally). Keywords: Assimilation; Biculturalism