cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adjustment of lifetime risks of space radiation-induced cancer by the healthy worker effect and cancer misclassification

Background. The healthy worker effect (HWE) is a source of bias in occupational studies of mortality among workers caused by use of comparative disease rates based on public data, which include mortality of unhealthy members of the public who are screened out of the workplace. For the US astronaut corp, the HWE is assumed to be strong due to the rigorous medical selection and surveillance. This investigation focused on the effect of correcting for HWE on projected lifetime risk estimates for radiation-induced cancer mortality and incidence. Methods. We performed radiation-induced cancer risk assessment using Poisson regression of cancer mortality and incidence rates among Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bomb survivors. Regression coefficients were used for generating risk coefficients for the excess absolute, transfer, and excess relative models. Excess lifetime risks (ELR) for radiation exposure and baseline lifetime risks (BLR) were adjusted for the HWE using standardized mortality ratios (SMR) for aviators and nuclear workers who were occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation. We also adjusted lifetime risks by cancer mortality misclassification among atomic bomb survivors. Results. For all cancers combined ("Nonleukemia"), the effect of adjusting the all-cause hazard rate by the simulated quantiles of the all-cause SMR resulted in a mean difference (not percent difference) in ELR of 0.65% and mean difference of 4% for mortality BLR, and mean change of 6.2% in BLR for incidence. The effect of adjusting the excess (radiation-induced) cancer rate or baseline cancer hazard rate by simulated quantiles of cancer-specific SMRs resulted in a mean difference of [Formula: see text] in the all-cancer mortality ELR and mean difference of [Formula: see text] in the mortality BLR. Whereas for incidence, the effect of adjusting by cancer-specific SMRs resulted in a mean change of [Formula: see text] for the all-cancer BLR. Only cancer mortality risks were adjusted by simulated quantiles for misclassification, and results indicate a mean change of 1.1% for all-cancer mortality ELR, while the mean change in the all-cancer PC was approximately 4% for males and 6% for females. Conclusions. The typical life table approach for projecting lifetime risk of radiation-induced cancer mortality and incidence for astronauts and radiation workers can be improved by adjusting for HWE while simulating the uncertainty of input rates, input excess risk coefficients, and bias correction factors during multiple Monte Carlo realizations of the life table.
Solar-thermal complex sample processing for nucleic acid based diagnostics in limited resource settings.

The use of point-of-care (POC) devices in limited resource settings where access to commonly used infrastructure, such as water and electricity, can be restricted represents simultaneously one of the best application fits for POC systems as well as one of the most challenging places to deploy them. Of the many challenges involved in these systems, the preparation and processing of complex samples like stool, vomit, and biopsies are particularly difficult due to the high number and varied nature of mechanical and chemical interferents present in the sample. Previously we have demonstrated the ability to use solar-thermal energy to perform PCR based nucleic acid amplifications. In this work demonstrate how the technique, using similar infrastructure, can also be used to perform solar-thermal based sample processing system for extracting and isolating Vibrio Cholerae nucleic acids from fecal samples. The use of opto-thermal energy enables the use of sunlight to drive thermal lysing reactions in large volumes without the need for external electrical power. Using the system demonstrate the ability to reach a 95°C threshold in less than 5 minutes and maintain a stable sample temperature of +/− 2°C following the ramp up. The system is demonstrated to provide linear results between 104 and 108 CFU/mL when the released nucleic acids were quantified via traditional means. Additionally, we couple the sample processing unit with our previously demonstrated solar-thermal PCR and tablet based detection system to demonstrate very low power sample-in-answer-out detection.
Effects of Host Plants on Activities of Detoxification and Protective Enzymes in Three Rice Planthoppers

The effects of host plants on survival and activities of detoxification and protective enzymes of three rice planthoppers(Nilaparvata lugens,Sogatella furcifera and Laodelphax striatellus) were investigated with five host plants including four rice varieties [TN1,IR42,Rathu Heenati(RHT) and Wuyujing 3] and one weed barnyardgrass.The survival rate of the three planthoppers significantly varied with host plants.N.lugens had the highest survival rate on TN1,followed by on IR42 and Wuyujing 3,and on RHT and barnyardgrass.However,S.furcifera and L.striatellus had significantly higher survival rate on TN1 as well as on Wuyujing 3 and barnyardgrass,and substantially lower survival rate on RHT and IR42.Among the three planthoppers,the activities of glutathione S-transferase and microsomal mixed-function oxidases at the adult stage,and the activities of carboxylesterase,superoxide dismutase and peroxidase at both adult and nymph stages,significantly differed on various host plants,whereas the activities of glutathione S-transferase and microsomal mixed-function oxidases were similar at the nymph stage.The influence of host plants on the activities of these enzymes were also planthopper-related,with L.striatellus most affected,N.lugens the least affected,and S.furcifera moderately affected,which was in accordance with the host range of these planthoppers.However,it was also found that,even if the planthoppers fed on plants with similar host fitness,the enzyme activities varied among planthopper species,or even between the adult and nymph stages within a planthopper species.It is suggested that relations between the host plant fitness and the activities of detoxification and protective enzymes differed with species and developmental stage of planthoppers,and also with the type of host plants.
Next-generation sequencing technologies and fragment assembly algorithms

As a classic topic in bioinformatics, the fragment assembly problem has been studied for over two decades. Fragment assembly algorithms take a set of DNA fragments as input, piece them together into a set of aligned overlapping fragments (i.e., contigs), and output a consensus sequence for each of the contigs. The rapid advance of massively parallel sequencing, often referred to as next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, has revolutionized DNA sequencing by reducing both its time and cost by several orders of magnitude in the past few years, but posed new challenges for fragment assembly. As a result, many new approaches have been developed to assemble NGS sequences, which are typically shorter with a higher error rate, but at a much higher throughput, than classic methods provided. In this chapter, we review both classic and new algorithms for fragment assembly, with a focus on NGS sequences. We also discuss a few new assembly problems emerging from the broader applications of NGS techniques, which are distinct from the classic fragment assembly problem.
Linear, Mannitol-Based Poly(anhydride-esters) with High Ibuprofen Loading and Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Sugar alcohols, such as mannitol and xylitol, are biocompatible polyols that have been used to make highly cross-linked polyester elastomers and dendrimers for tissue engineering and drug delivery. However, research that utilizes the secondary hydroxyl groups as sites for pendant bioactive attachment and subsequent polymerization is limited. This work is the first report of a linear, completely biodegradable polymer with a sugar alcohol backbone and chemically incorporated pendant bioactives that exhibits sustained bioactive release and high bioactive loading (∼70%). With four pendant esters per repeat unit, this poly(anhydride-ester) has high loading and biodegrades into three biocompatible products: bioactive, sugar alcohol, and alkyl-based diacid. Ibuprofen serves as a representative bioactive, whereas mannitol is a representative polyol. Polymerization was achieved through reaction with (trimethylsilyl)ethoxyacetylene. Drug release via polymer degradation was quantified by high performance liquid chro...
Gravity's Angels in America, or, Pynchon's Angelology Revisited

"There are no angels in America," says Louis Ironson, a character in Tony Kushner's epic play, Angels in America (92). This line is fraught with multiple ironies, some of them unintended. Though the character Louis doesn't know it, in fact there are angels in his America, the America of 1985, one of whom will shortly manifest itself to his former lover, Prior. Moreover, though the playwright Kushner might not have known it yet, as of 1990, when the first part of his two-part play premiered, there were already angels in his America as well; and by 1993, when his play opened on Broadway, there would be many more of them.
Structure of room temperature ionic liquids

The structure of room temperature ionic liquids is studied using molecular dynamics simulations and integral equation theory. Three ionic liquids 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium hexfluorophosphate, [C n MIM] [PF6], for n = 1, 4, and 8, are studied using a united atom model of the ions. The primary interest is a study of the pair correlation functions and a test of the reference interaction site model theory. There is liquid-like ordering in the liquid that arises from electrostatic attractions and steric packing considerations. The theory is not in quantitative agreement with the simulation results and underestimates the degree of liquid-like order. A pre-peak in the static structure factor is seen in both simulations and theory, suggesting that this is a geometric effect arising from a packing of the alkyl chains.
A randomized field study comparing differences in core body temperature, health, and performance in crossbred beef heifers administered 2 antimicrobial products given upon arrival at a stocker facility1

ABSTRACT Antimicrobial metaphylaxis is an important tool used for the prevention of bovine respiratory disease complex, an economically important disease that typically affects newly weaned beef calves that are marketed and transported a distance from their origin. An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of administering 2 different metaphylactic products [tulathromycin (TULA) and gamithromycin (GAMI)] on differences on core body temperature, health, and performance on 284 highly stressed stocker calves. Calves were procured and delivered (transient time = 13.5 h average) from a southeastern United States order buyer in 3 truckload lots during a 6-d period in October 2011. The core body temperatures in nonmorbid calves in the TULA calves were greater compared with the GAMI calves the first 2 h after administration and at multiple time points on d 4 through 6 of the experiment (P
Active Seismic Monitoring of Crack Initiation, Propagation, and Coalescence in Rock

Active seismic monitoring was used to detect and characterize crack initiation, crack propagation and crack coalescence in pre-cracked rock specimens. Uniaxial compression tests were conducted on Indiana limestone specimens with two parallel pre-existing cracks. During the experiments, the mechanically induced cracks around the flaw tips were monitored by measuring surface displacements using digital image correlation (DIC). Transmitted and reflected compressional and shear waves through the specimens were also recorded during the loading to detect any damage or cracking phenomena. The amplitude of transmitted compressional and shear waves decreased with uniaxial compression. However, the rate of decrease of the amplitude of the transmitted waves intensified well before the initiation of tensile cracks. In addition, a distinct minimum in the amplitude of transmitted waves occurred close to coalescence. The normalized amplitude of waves reflecting from the new cracks increased before new tensile and shear cracks initiated around the flaw tips. In addition, the location of new cracks could be identified using the traveling time of the reflected waves. The experimental results indicate that changes in normalized amplitude of transmitted and reflected signals associated with crack initiation and crack coalescence were detected much earlier than with DIC, at a load of about 80–90% of the load at which the cracks appeared on the surface. The tests show conclusively that active wave monitoring is an effective tool to detect damage and new cracks in rock, as well as to estimate the location of the new cracks.
Self-Diffusion of Iron in Molten Fe-C Alloys

Self-diffusion coefficients of iron in molten Fe-C alloys have been measured by using the capillary method. In addition, the samples have been autoradiographed and sectioned to insure that no significant convection has occurred during the diffusion. The results can be represented by the equation D = 4.3×10−3 exp (—12.200/RT) for carbon = 4.6 pct and T = 1513° to 1633°K; and D = 1.0×10−2 exp (—15,700/RT) for carbon = 2.5 pct and T = 1613° to 1673°K. The D values are higher and the heat of activation for diffusion lower in alloys containing more carbon. Calculation based on the Einstein-Stokes equation indicates that the diffusing species is iron ion.
Optimization combining derivative-free global exploration with derivative-based local refinement

This paper proposes a hybrid optimization scheme combining an efficient (and, under the appropriate assumptions, provably globally convergent) derivative-free optimization algorithm (dubbed A-DOGS), to globally explore expensive noncon-vex functions, with a new derivative-based local optimization algorithm, to maximally accelerate local convergence from promising feasible points discovered in parameter space. The resulting hybrid optimization scheme proceeds iteratively, automatically shifting between (derivative-free) global exploration and (derivative-based) local refinement as appropriate. The new derivative-based local refinement method implemented uses the Voronoi partitioning of all existing datapoints at each iteration to establish a “modified trust-region” around the current best point, within which derivative-based optimization is considered. The resulting algorithm is analyzed, and its global convergence is proven under certain assumptions on the objective function. Finally, the algorithm is applied to nonconvex optimization problems with multiple local minima, and its computational cost compared with that of the original A-DOGS algorithm.
Antimicrobial Agent Incorporation for Preventing Bacterial Adhesion

Medical devices are indispensable in the modern care of patients. Despite adherence to sterile guidelines for the insertion and maintenance of medical devices, infection remains the most common serious complication of indwelling medical devices. Infections related to medical devices account for nearly half of all nosocomial infections.35 The contribution of medical devices to nosocomial infection is particularly prominent with certain devices, such as vascular and urinary catheters. For instance, vascular catheters account for most cases of nosocomial bloodstream infections,24 and catheter-related urinary tract infection is the most common nosocomial infection in health care institutions.35 In addition to causing serious medical complications, infection of medical devices is very expensive to manage. For instance, the extra cost of treating one episode of catheter-related bloodsteam infection in a critically ill patient was estimated to be $28,690 per survivor, and each such episode resulted in an additional average stay of 6.5 d in the intensive care unit.23
Expression of the mdr-1/P-170 gene in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Increased expression of the multidrug resistance gene (mdr-1/P-170) and the dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) gene have been implicated in the development of in vitro drug resistance. Overexpression, with or without gene amplification, is seen in the development of drug resistance in culture and it has been postulated that genetic modulation of mdr-1/P-170 and DHFR may also be involved in the development of clinical drug resistance. We screened lymphoblasts from 28 patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) for evidence of overexpression of mdr-1/P-170 using RNAse protection, RNA in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Overexpression of mdr-1/P-170 without gene amplification was detected in samples from four patients (three after multiple relapses, one at presentation). Overexpression of mdr-1/P-170 was heterogeneous within the population of malignant lymphoblasts as demonstrated by RNA in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and drug uptake using daunomycin autofluorescence analysis. There was no evidence of overexpression of DHFR in any of the eight patient samples tested by RNAse protection nor was there any evidence of gene amplification in 11 patient samples on Southern blot analysis. From these observations it appears that overexpression without gene amplification of mdr-1/P-170 may be one mechanism of clinical drug resistance in ALL.
Bayesian Regression Models

Sometimes a parameter in an aleatory model, such as p in the binomial distribution or λ in the Poisson distribution, can be affected by observable quantities such as pressure, mass, or temperature. For example, in the case of a pressure vessel, very high pressure and high temperature may be leading indicators of failures. In such cases, information about the explanatory variables can be used in the Bayesian inference paradigm to inform the estimates of p or λ. We have already seen examples of this in Chap. 5, where we modeled the influence of time on p and λ via logistic and loglinear regression models, respectively. In this chapter, we extend this concept to more complex situations, such as a Bayesian regression approach that estimates the probability of O-ring failure in the solid-rocket booster motors of the space shuttle.
General relativity as a biconformal gauge theory

Abstract We consider the conformal group of a space of dim n = p + q , with S O ( p , q ) metric. The quotient of this group by its homogeneous Weyl subgroup gives a principal fiber bundle with 2n-dim base manifold and Weyl fibers. The Cartan generalization to a curved 2n-dim geometry admits an action functional linear in the curvatures. Because symmetry is maintained between the translations and the special conformal transformations in the construction, these spaces are called biconformal; this same symmetry gives biconformal spaces overlapping structures with double field theories, including manifest T-duality. We establish that biconformal geometry is a form of double field theory, showing how general relativity with integrable local scale invariance arises from its field equations. While we discuss the relationship between biconformal geometries and the double field theories of T-dual string theories, our principal interest is the study of the gravity theory. We show that vanishing torsion and vanishing co-torsion solutions to the field equations overconstrain the system, implying a trivial biconformal space. With co-torsion unconstrained, we show that (1) the torsion-free solutions are foliated by copies of an n-dim Lie group, (2) torsion-free solutions generically describe locally scale-covariant general relativity with symmetric, divergence-free sources on either the co-tangent bundle of n-dim ( p , q ) -spacetime or the torus of double field theory, and (3) torsion-free solutions admit a subclass of spacetimes with n-dim non-abelian Lie symmetry. These latter cases include the possibility of a gravity-electroweak unification. It is notable that the field equations reduce all curvature components to dependence only on the solder form of an n-dim Lagrangian submanifold, despite the increased number of curvature components and doubled number of initial independent variables.
Strong Security Guarantees: From Alloy to Coq (Research Poster)

With the recent discoveries of widespread vulnerabilities, the use of formal methods in the design of system is more and more important, in particular in the context of Cloud computing which can be used for high performance computing applications [1]. Formal methods range from more lightweight method such as the Alloy [2] formal specification language and analyzer to more heavyweight formal methods based on proof assistants such as Isabelle/HOL or Coq [3].
Black Parents’ Perspectives on Instruction: Racial Realism at a Predominantly White, Independent, Urban Elementary School:

What do Black parents say about the curriculum in a predominantly White independent elementary school in a large urban area? This study explores tensions around topics such as slavery and immigrati...
Abstract A04: Genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of HES1 reduces YAP1 expression, impairing rhabdomyosarcoma cell growth

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a mesenchymal cancer with skeletal muscle histogenesis and the most common soft-tissue sarcoma of childhood. High-risk patient groups continue to have a poor survival ( Citation Format: Alexander R. Kovach, Corinne M. Linardic. Genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of HES1 reduces YAP1 expression, impairing rhabdomyosarcoma cell growth [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on the Hippo Pathway: Signaling, Cancer, and Beyond; 2019 May 8-11; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2020;18(8_Suppl):Abstract nr A04.
Teaching RF to Sense without RF Training Measurements

In this paper, we propose a novel, generalizable, and scalable idea that eliminates the need for collecting Radio Frequency (RF) measurements, when training RF sensing systems for human-motion-related activities. Existing learning-based RF sensing systems require collecting massive RF training data, which depends heavily on the particular sensing setup/involved activities. Thus, new data needs to be collected when the setup/activities change, significantly limiting the practical deployment of RF sensing systems. On the other hand, recent years have seen a growing, massive number of online videos involving various human activities/motions. In this paper, we propose to translate such already-available online videos to instant simulated RF data for training any human-motion-based RF sensing system, in any given setup. To validate our proposed framework, we conduct a case study of gym activity classification, where CSI magnitude measurements of three WiFi links are used to classify a person's activity from 10 different physical exercises. We utilize YouTube gym activity videos and translate them to RF by simulating the WiFi signals that would have been measured if the person in the video was performing the activity near the transceivers. We then train a classifier on the simulated data, and extensively test it with real WiFi data of 10 subjects performing the activities in 3 areas. Our system achieves a classification accuracy of 86% on activity periods, each containing an average of 5.1 exercise repetitions, and 81% on individual repetitions of the exercises. This demonstrates that our approach can generate reliable RF training data from already-available videos, and can successfully train an RF sensing system without any real RF measurements. The proposed pipeline can also be used beyond training and for analysis and design of RF sensing systems, without the need for massive RF data collection.
Neuroscience needs behavior: inferring psychophysical strategy trial by trial.

Tools quantifying dynamic behavior are important to understand brain function. In this issue of Neuron, Roy et al. (2021) extended the available repertoire with PsyTrack, which tracks, trial by trial, how subjects performing psychophysical tasks adjust the way they weigh stimuli and task covariates or change their biases.
Global Perspectives on Entrepreneurs and Entrepreneurship

The title of this book indicates its focus but does not provide the purpose and approach used in examining this phenomenon in the continent of Africa. The book proposes to examine the ecological factors that drive or motivate women in Africa to opt for entrepreneurship.
Nanoparticles for Photodynamic Therapy

Despite being a very young research field, nanoparticle-based photodynamic therapy (PDT) has developed explosively as a research field and many researchers currently contribute to its fast advancement. Multifunctional nanoparticles with versatile compositions hold great promise as photosensitizer delivery systems and as complementary components for PDT. They can overcome most of the shortcomings of first- and second-generation PDT reagents. As a drug delivery system, nanoparticles can efficiently transport hydrophobic photosensitizers in vitro and in vivo. They can help the drugs overcome the physiological and biological barriers and improve cell uptake. The important goals of nanoparticle-based PDT systems are to provide a reasonably long circulation time, specific targeting, PDT efficacy and, if possible, excretion or degradation. Another important aspect of nanoparticles in PDT applications is that they can act as the potential photosensitizers, which can generate reactive oxygen species and produce phototoxicity. In this chapter, the various existing approaches using nanoparticles for photodynamic therapy are summarized. The various challenges in this emerging field are also described.
Psychometric Properties of the Short Versions of the EBP Beliefs Scale, the EBP Implementation Scale, and the EBP Organizational Culture and Readiness Scale

Background Evidence-based practice (EBP) is a problem-solving approach to clinical decision making that leads to a higher quality and safety of health care. Three valid and reliable scales that measure EBP attributes, including the EBP Beliefs Scale, the EBP Implementation Scale, and the Organizational Culture and Readiness Scale for System-Wide Integration of EBP, are widely used but require approximately 5 min each to complete. Shorter valid and reliable versions of these scales could offer the benefit of less time for completion, thereby decreasing participant burden. Aim The aim of this study was to determine the psychometric properties of the three shortened EBP scales, adapted from the longer versions. Methods This study used a descriptive survey design with 498 nurses who completed the three original EBP scales along with a shortened version of each scale. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted with principal components extracted to examine the factor structure of each EBP measure for the three shortened EBP scales. Item intercorrelations and the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin Measure of Sampling Adequacy (KMO) were used to confirm the validity of using factor analysis. Reliability of each scale using Cronbach's α was examined. Convergent validity of the three shortened EBP scales was assessed by correlating each shortened scale with its longer scale. Results Factor analysis supported the construct validity of each of the three shortened scales, as all item intercorrelations were greater than 0.40, and KMO values were 0.62 to 0.74. The shortened scales Cronbach alphas were 0.81 for the EBP Beliefs Scale, 0.89 for the EBP Implementation Scale, and 0.87 for the EBP Culture and Readiness Scale. The three shortened EBP scales had acceptable convergent validity (r = 0.42-.072) for the correlations between the shortened and longer scales. Linking evidence to action The three shortened EBP scales, which are valid and reliable, can be used as an alternative to the longer three scales to decrease participant burden when conducting program evaluations, research, or organizational assessments.
Building a Bridge for Batten Disease

Background. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis, or Batten disease, is a neurodegenerative disorder that results in seizures, vision loss, vegetative state, and premature death. This project aims to understand the value of disease organizations in the management of Batten disease progression. Methods. Seven semi-structured interviews with caregivers of children with Batten disease were conducted at a national family conference. Also, five semi-structured telephone interviews with disease organizations were conducted, two of which were Batten disease specific. Results. Most caregiver participants reported difficulties in getting a diagnosis. All participants reported significant benefit from involvement in the Batten Disease Support and Research Association (BDSRA) and associated family conference. Some of the most challenging aspects of care centered around a lack of in-home aid, medical equipment, and the education system. The disease advocacy organizations included Rare KC, the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), Global Genes, Noah’s Hope, and Taylor’s Tale. Disease organizations encourage rare disease families to thrive by providing the bridge that connects patients, physicians, and researchers. A central organization implements an avenue for individuals to share information and meet people in the rare disease community. Conclusions. The participants provided clear examples of the benefits families received from being involved in a rare disease organization.
Social Role, Behavior, and Belief Changes Associated With Driving After Using Marijuana Among U.S. Young Adults, and Comparisons With Driving After 5+ Drinking.

Objective: This study examined past-2-week driving after marijuana use (DMU) and driving after having five or more drinks (D5D) during young adulthood, specifically focusing on associations between...
Genome sequencing identifies three molecular diagnoses including a mosaic variant in the COL2A1 gene in an individual with Pol III-related leukodystrophy and Feingold syndrome.

Undiagnosed genetic disease imposes significant burden on families and healthcare resources, especially in cases with a complex phenotype. Here we present a child with suspected leukodystrophy in the context of additional features, including hearing loss, clinodactyly, rotated thumbs, tapered fingers, and simplified palmar crease. Trio genome sequencing (GS) identified three molecular diagnoses in this individual: compound heterozygous missense variants associated with Pol III-related leukodystrophy, a 4 Mb de novo copy number loss including the MYCN gene associated with Feingold syndrome, and a mosaic single nucleotide variant (SNV) associated with COL2A1-related disorders. These variants fully account for the individual's features, but also illustrate the potential for superimposed and unclear contributions of multiple diagnoses to a individual's overall presentation. This report demonstrates the advantage of GS in detection of multiple variant types, including low-level mosaic variants, and emphasizes the need for comprehensive genetic analysis and detailed clinical phenotyping to provide individuals and their families with the maximum benefit for clinical care and genetic counseling.
Managerial Performance and Closed‐End Country Fund Premiums: A Lead or Lag Relationship?*

Herein, we examine whether changes in closed-end country fund premiums lead and/or lag management performance. Using a sample of 46 country funds and a time period of 11 years, we find evidence of a significant negative relationship between past performance and current fund premiums, but no support for the hypothesis that past premiums are indicative of future performance. Furthermore, the above results are driven primarily by the emerging market funds. The difference between emerging market and developed market fund premiums’ response to past performance, although less obvious, continues to hold in the crises period, but vanishes in the tranquil period.
Determination and Consciousness in Marx

There has been a dramatic increase over the past decade in the volume of Anglo-American philosophical writing on Marxism, with the 1978 publication of G.A. Cohen’s trail-blazing Karl Marx’s Theory of History being a convenient landmark. What has come to be called ‘analytical Marxism’ is now well-established, and valuable clarificatory work has been done on such traditionally murky subjects as the theory of historical materialism, the nature of ideology, Marx’s views on ethics, the character of Marx’s epistemology, the ‘scientific’ status of Marxism, and the problematic interface between Marxism and normative liberal political theory.
SU-E-I-83: Error Analysis of Multi-Modality Image-Based Volumes of Rodent Solid Tumors Using a Preclinical Multi-Modality QA Phantom

Purpose: In our previous study a preclinical multi-modality quality assurance (QA) phantom that contains five tumor-simulating test objects with 2, 4, 7, 10 and 14 mm diameters was developed for accurate tumor size measurement by researchers during cancer drug development and testing. This study analyzed the errors during tumor volume measurement from preclinical magnetic resonance (MR), micro-computed tomography (micro- CT) and ultrasound (US) images acquired in a rodent tumor model using the preclinical multi-modality QA phantom. Methods: Using preclinical 7-Tesla MR, US and micro-CT scanners, images were acquired of subcutaneous SCC4 tumor xenografts in nude rats (3–4 rats per group; 5 groups) along with the QA phantom using the same imaging protocols. After tumors were excised, in-air micro-CT imaging was performed to determine reference tumor volume. Volumes measured for the rat tumors and phantom test objects were calculated using formula V = (π/6)*a*b*c where a, b and c are the maximum diameters in three perpendicular dimensions determined by the three imaging modalities. Then linear regression analysis was performed to compare image-based tumor volumes with the reference tumor volume and known test object volume for the rats and the phantom respectively. Results: The slopes of regression lines for in-vivo tumor volumesmore » measured by three imaging modalities were 1.021, 1.101 and 0.862 for MRI, micro-CT and US respectively. For phantom, the slopes were 0.9485, 0.9971 and 0.9734 for MRI, micro-CT and US respectively. Conclusion: For both animal and phantom studies, random and systematic errors were observed. Random errors were observer-dependent and systematic errors were mainly due to selected imaging protocols and/or measurement method. In the animal study, there were additional systematic errors attributed to ellipsoidal assumption for tumor shape. The systematic errors measured using the QA phantom need to be taken into account to reduce measurement errors during the animal study.« less
Influence of Age on Insulin Stimulation of Amino Acid Uptake in Rat Diaphragm

Abstract 1. The transport of α-amino[1-C14]isobutyric acid by intact rat diaphragm was studied in vitro over a 60-min course of incubation, after a 180-min prior incubation period. Insulin stimulated α-aminoisobutyric acid accumulation by muscle from 10-, 25-, 37-, 50-, and 100-day-old animals by 41, 147, 109, 54, and 23%, respectively. 2. Insulin stimulated uptake by increasing the maximum velocity of active transport (Vmax) in muscle from 10-day-old animals. In contrast, insulin increased the apparent affinity (Km) of the carrier mechanism for α-aminoisobutyric acid in muscle from 25- and 50-day-old animals. 3. Puromycin dihydrochloride inhibited uptake by resting, nonstimulated muscle from 10-, 25-, and 37-day-old animals when the antibiotic was added 180 min before α-aminoisobutyric acid. This inhibitory effect decreased with increasing age. Puromycin dihydrochloride did not inhibit α-aminoisobutyric acid uptake by muscle from 50- and 100-day-old animals. 4. Puromycin had no effect on insulin stimulation of α-aminoisobutyric acid transport in muscle from 10-day-old; reduced uptake in muscle from 25-day-old; but completely abolished subsequent insulin stimulation in muscle from 50-day-old animals. 5. These studies show that insulin stimulates α-aminoisobutyric acid uptake by different mechanisms in skeletal muscle from rats of different ages. The results suggest that insulin affects its stimulatory response in two distinct ways: directly by interacting with membrane carrier mechanisms; and indirectly by initiating the synthesis of a specific protein(s) which enhance transport. Muscle from 10-day-old rats responds only to the direct stimulatory mechanism. Muscle from the 25-day-old rats responds to both direct and indirect stimulation. Muscle from 50-day-old rats has lost responsivity to direct stimulation and relies completely on indirect stimulation through new protein synthesis.
Adverse Childhood Experiences Among Immigrants to the United States

A growing number of studies have examined the “immigrant paradox” with respect to health behaviors in the United States. However, little research attention has been afforded to the study of adverse childhood experiences (ACE; neglect, physical and sexual abuse, and witnessing violence) among immigrants in the United States. The present study, using Waves I and II data from the National Epidemiologic Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC), aims to address these gaps by comparing forms of ACE of first- and second-generation immigrants with native-born American adults in the United States. We also examined the latent structure of ACE among immigrants and conducted analyses to assess the psychiatric correlates of identified latent classes. With the exception of neglect, the prevalence of ACE was markedly higher among native-born Americans and second-generation immigrants compared with first-generation immigrants. Four latent classes were identified—limited adverse experience (n = 3,497), emotional ...
Sharply notch cylindrical tension specimen for screening plane-strain fracture toughness. I - Influence of fundamental testing variables on notch strength. II Applications in aluminum alloy quality assurance of fracture toughness

A description is presented of studies which have been conducted to establish an improved technology base for a use of the sharply notched cylindrical specimen in quality assurance tests of aluminum alloy products. The results are presented of an investigation of fundamental variables associated with specimen preparation and testing, taking into account the influence of the notch root radius, the eccentricity of loading, the specimen diameter, and the notch depth on the sharp notch strength. Attention is given to the statistical procedures which are necessary to establish correlations between the sharp notch strength and the plane-strain fracture toughness for high-strength aluminum alloys.
Observing Peripersonal Distance Regulation of Human Affect With the Embodied Distance Test

We frequently regulate our distance from objects with silent automaticity. Various areas of psychology have studied how we regulate space, though issues with measurement have obscured a grounded interpretation of many findings, as is particularly evident in the long tradition of research on personal space. The Embodied Distance Test (EDT) was developed in response to these longstanding issues in the measurement spatial behavior and experience in humans, providing a replicable and extensible method for interdisciplinary use. Through calculating difference between predetermined image presentation locations to the participant's later placement locations of the same stimuli, the procedure uses a fairly simple method for indexing spatial distortion. We demonstrate reliable distortion of images of human affect in peripersonal space, and further exploration of empirically-measured differences between explicit and implicit versions of the task which amplify theoretical concerns regarding the first-person experience of peripersonal space.
A Knowledge-Based Decision Support System For Costing Job Orders

The problem of bidding on a customized product in a manufacturing environment is very complex. Such a bidding requires determination of labor, material, production process requirements, outsourcing strategies, if necessary, and the recognition of profit margins. The complexity may arise from deciding production process requirements, which may involve hundreds of steps, selection of appropriate raw materials, and computation of profit margins in the presence of various estimates. This process is expert intensive and time consuming. The purpose of this paper is to develop a knowledge based decision support system to deal with bidding problem for a forging and steel company. The decision support system captures engineers’ expertise, uses group technology principles for product classification, and uses the business domain specific knowledge. It is implemented in Microsoft Access, a relational database system. The objectives of this decision support system were to cost majority of the jobs efficiently and effectively, standardize the bidding process, aid the salespersons, and provide means to facilitate learning from past successful and unsuccessful bids. This decision support system with few modifications can be used in a variety of manufacturing and service job order environments.
Using extended surfaces to reduce the thermal signatures of military assets

Because military assets often operate at temperatures different from their surroundings, they exhibit thermal signatures observable with infrared (IR) imaging systems operating in the mid-wave (MWIR) and long-wave (LWIR) infrared bands of the spectrum. Reducing these thermal signatures provides a means of making these assets blend in with their environments. Most often the assets are warmer than their environment because they must dissipate heat generated internally from electronics, engines, or personnel. The radiation emitted by these assets is strongly dependent on the temperature and the emissivity of the exposed surfaces. Thus, by reducing the emissivity or the temperature, or both, the thermal signatures can be reduced. The current study addresses the use of extended surfaces, or fins, to reduce the temperature of heat dissipating surfaces. Analytic, experimental, and computational studies are performed which demonstrate that extended surfaces offer an effective way to reduce the temperature of exposed surfaces while still dissipating the heat generated by the asset.
SUMOylation and De-SUMOylation: Wrestling with Life's Processes

The small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) is a ubiquitin-like protein that covalently modifies a large number of cellular proteins. SUMO modification has emerged as an important regulatory mechanism for protein function and localization. SUMOylation is a dynamic process that is mediated by activating (E1), conjugating (E2), and ligating (E3) enzymes and readily reversed by a family of ubiquitin-like protein-specific proteases (Ulp) in yeast and sentrin/SUMO-specific proteases (SENP) in human. This review will focus on the de-SUMOylating enzymes with special attention to their biological function.
Impurity and Exciton Effects on the Infrared Absorption Edges of III-V Compounds

The fundamental absorption edge of each of several III-V compounds has been examined for structure due to excitons and impurities using high resolution and sample temperatures down to 1.4\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. The effects of an applied magnetic field were studied. The absorption edge of GaSb shows three sharp peaks ($\ensuremath{\alpha}$, $\ensuremath{\beta}$, $\ensuremath{\gamma}$) and a low-absorption tail. Under a magnetic field, the peaks ($\ensuremath{\alpha}$, $\ensuremath{\beta}$, $\ensuremath{\gamma}$) shift and split in a manner close to the expected behavior of the exciton. The peak $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ is shown to be the free-exciton peak and the peaks ($\ensuremath{\beta}$ and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$) are attributed to impurity-exciton complexes. The tail is found to be associated with electron transitions to the conduction band from impurity levels near the valence band. Absorption associated with impurity-valence-band transitions is also observed at low photon energies. Analysis of these results gives the energy gap, the electron $g$ factor, and the ionization energies of impurity levels. The absorption edge of InSb shows a step which is found to be due to ionized acceptors. Under a magnetic field, two peaks develop from the step absorption which behave like the impurity-exciton peaks in GaSb. The optical transitions involved appear to be related to the emission observed in the InSb laser. The electron $g$ factor and the ionization energies of impurity levels have been estimated from these results. Some studies on the impurity absorption near the intrinsic edge of other III-V compounds are reported.
Upper Jurassic (Oxfordian) Smackover carbonate petroleum system characterization and modeling, Mississippi Interior Salt Basin area, northeastern Gulf of Mexico, USA

The Upper Jurassic (Oxfordian) Smackover Formation is a prolific oil and gas reservoir in the northern Gulf of Mexico, including the Mississippi Interior Salt Basin area. The Smackover petroleum system is categorized as a giant petroleum system and ranks fourth among recognized Upper Jurassic petroleum systems. In the Mississippi Interior Salt Basin area, the components of the Smackover petroleum system include pre rift, syn rift and post rift siliciclastic, evaporite, and carbonate underburden and overburden rocks, Smackover subtidal lime mudstone source rocks, uppermost Smackover anhydrite and Buckner Anhydrite Member subaqueous saltern and sabkha seal rocks, and upper Smackover shoal complex and tidal flat complex packstone, grainstone, boundstone and dolostone reservoir rocks. The critical events include the initiation of the generation of crude oil, the commencement of hydrocarbon expulsion, the initiation of hydrocarbon migration, and the entrapment of hydrocarbons during the Early to Late Cretaceous. The critical moment for the Smackover petroleum system is the time of peak hydrocarbon expulsion in the mid to late Early Cretaceous in basin center areas and mid to latest late Cretaceous in areas along the northern basin margin. *** DIRECT SUPPORT *** A00QA034 00003
Mutational Analysis of Cell Cycle Inhibition by Integrin β1C

Abstract Integrin β1C is an alternatively spliced cytoplasmic variant of the β1 subunit that potently inhibits cell cycle progression. In this study, we analyzed the requirements for growth suppression by β1C. A chimera containing the extracellular/transmembrane domain of the Tac subunit of the human interleukin 2 receptor (gp55) fused to the cytoplasmic domain of β1C (residues 732–805) strongly inhibited growth in mouse 10T1/2 cells even at low expression levels, whereas chimeras containing the β1A, β1B, β1D, β3, and β5 cytoplasmic domains had weak and variable effects. The β1C cytoplasmic domain is composed of a membrane proximal region (732–757) common to all β1variants and a COOH-terminal 48-amino acid domain (758–805) unique to β1C. The β1C-specific domain (758–805) was sufficient to block cell growth even when expressed as a soluble cytoplasmic green fluorescent protein fusion protein. These results indicate that growth inhibition by β1C does not require the intact receptor and can function in the absence of membrane targeting. Analysis of deletions within the β1C-specific domain showed that the 18-amino acid sequence 775–792 is both necessary and sufficient for maximal growth inhibition, although the 13 COOH-terminal residues (793–805) also had weak activity. Finally, β1C is known to be induced in endothelial cells in response to tumor necrosis factor and is down-regulated in prostate epithelial cells after transformation. The green fluorescent protein/β1C (758–805) chimera blocked growth in the human endothelial cell line EV304 and in the transformed prostate epithelial cell line DU145, consistent with a role for β1C as a growth inhibitor in vivo.