cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Post-Hurricane Katrina Racialized Explanations as a System Threat: Implications for Whites’ and Blacks’ Racial Attitudes

This experiment drew upon theoretical perspectives on group and system justification to examine whether exposure to media coverage arguing that racism was responsible for the ineffective Hurricane Katrina disaster response affected White and Black Americans’ intergroup attitudes. Consistent with a system justification perspective, Whites exposed to video clips arguing that the hurricane Katrina disaster response was due to racism displayed greater racial ingroup attachment and ingroup love compared to Whites exposed to videos conveying that the government’s incompetence was to blame for the disaster response. In contrast, Blacks displayed strong levels of ingroup attachment and ingroup love across both video conditions. This research highlights how insights from social psychology are valuable in understanding psychological responses to social justice-related events, such as the tragic response to hurricane Katrina.
Metacercariae of Clinostomum attenuatum in Ambystoma tigrinum mavortium, Bufo cognatus and Spea multiplicata from west Texas.

Tissues from barred tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum mavortium), Great Plains toads (Bufo cognatus) and New Mexico spadefoots (Spea multiplicata) collected from 16 playa wetlands in Texas during 1999 and 2000 were examined by light microscopy. Digenean cysts were primarily distributed subcutaneously throughout the specimens and occasionally coelomic invasion was noted. The parasites within the cysts were 1.5 –2 mm in diameter, with a thin (c. 10mm wide) eosinophilic-staining tegument, two suckers (oral and ventral), posteriorly located primordial genitalia and paired digestive caeca. These digeneans were identified as the metacercariae of Clinostomum attenuatum. This is the first record of Clinostomum attenuatum in these amphibian species.
Percent plans, automatic admissions, and college outcomes

Access to selective universities is highly coveted because of the perception that attending one provides opportunities otherwise difficult to obtain. To broaden access to the state’s flagship universities in a manner that does not rely on conventional affirmative action, Texas passed the Top Ten Percent Plan in 1997, which guarantees automatic admission to any public university in the state to students in the top decile of their high school class. We estimate the effect of eligibility for automatic admissions on college choice and persistence for students in a diverse urban school district. Regression discontinuity estimates show that eligibility for guaranteed admissions has a substantial impact on enrollments at Texas flagship universities and increases the number of semesters enrolled at flagships. The increase in flagship enrollments appears to displace enrollments in private universities but has no effect on overall college enrollment or the quality of college attended. The effects are concentrated in schools that have high college-sending rates (relative to other schools in the district), suggesting that automatic admissions may have little effect on students in the most disadvantaged schools. I2
Continuing professional development training program among pharmacist preceptors and nonpreceptors

Abstract Objectives To administer, observe, and evaluate the effectiveness of a condensed continuing professional development (CPD) training program among chain community pharmacy preceptors and nonpreceptors in North Carolina. Methods 120 community preceptors and nonpreceptors affiliated with a large community chain pharmacy completed a 5-hour CPD program consisting of home study and live portions and were given pre- and postintervention surveys. The main outcome measures were knowledge and familiarity of CPD among community chain pharmacy preceptors and nonpreceptors, effectiveness of the condensed training program, and perceptions on implementing the CPD process after training. Results Before the educational activity, differences between participants were (1) the percent of women pharmacists (40% of preceptors and 65% of nonpreceptors) and (2) that preceptors were more likely to accomplish planned learning activities compared with nonpreceptors. Of 97 nonpreceptors and 23 preceptors trained, more than 90% reported being able to achieve the program objectives and responded positively to the survey questions and 100% indicated that the educational activity enhanced their knowledge and skill levels. At least 85% of participants responded that the program length was satisfactory. The postsurvey revealed that 87% of participants were at least moderately familiar with the concept of CPD. Of respondents, 83% indicated that they will implement CPD at their practice site. Conclusion A condensed CPD program is efficient and effective in training community chain pharmacy preceptors and nonpreceptors. The majority of the pharmacists who responded indicated that they will implement CPD at their practice site after going through this program.
Supervisory control system for the JASON ROV

A prototype supervisory control system for a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) is described and several key elements demonstrated in simulation and in-water tests. This system is specifically designed to fill the needs of JASON, a new ROV under development that will perform scientific tasks on the seafloor to depths of 6000 m. JASON will operate from the ARGO towed imaging platform, which is currently operational. Supervisory control is a paradigm for combined human and computer control. Several key elements of the supervisory control system are presented. These include the closed-loop positioning system based on a high-resolution acoustic navigation system, a monitoring capability for assessing performance and detecting undesirable changes, and an interface that allows the human operator and the computer system to specify the desired vehicle trajectory jointly.
Density functional calculations on the conversion of azide and carbon monoxide to isocyanate and dinitrogen by a nickel to sulfur rebound mechanism.

Density functional calculations (B3 LYP & BP86) on a model system for the reaction between carbon monoxide and [Ni(N3)(′S3′)]− (′S3′2−=bis(2-mercaptophenyl)sulfide (2−)) predict a three-step mechanism. First, CO attacks the nickel to generate a pseudo “square-pyramidal” complex, in which CO, N3−, and two sulfides are basal and the central S atom of the ′S3′2− ligand backs away from Ni to form a weak NiS apical bond. Then, CO inserts into the NiN bond and the weak apical NiS bond rebounds to its original strength as the nickel forms a square-planar intermediate. Finally, in a one-step process N2 leaves as the remaining N atom and carbonyl rearrange to produce the nickel isocyanate product [Ni(NCO)(′S3′)]−.
New Trilacuna species from Thailand, Malaysia and Sumatra (Araneae, Oonopidae)

The genus Trilacuna (Araneae, Oonopidae), comprising only two species from China, is supplemented by seven new species collected in Thailand, Malaysia and Sumatra (T. merapi, T. bilingua, T. clarissa, T. werni, T. alces, T. kropfi, and T. diabolica). The new species exhibit an incised labium and a complicated set of membranes and/or filiform projections around the embolus, both diagnostic for the genus Trilacuna.
'Because life it selfe is but motion': Toward an anthropology of mobility

Over the last two decades, mobility has gained new prominence within anthropology, particularly in theories of globalization, immigration, and subjectivity. At stake in all of the recent ethnograph...
Dietary Variation and Evolution of Gene Copy Number among Dog Breeds

Prolonged human interactions and artificial selection have influenced the genotypic and phenotypic diversity among dog breeds. Because humans and dogs occupy diverse habitats, ecological contexts have likely contributed to breed-specific positive selection. Prior to the advent of modern dog-feeding practices, there was likely substantial variation in dietary landscapes among disparate dog breeds. As such, we investigated one type of genetic variant, copy number variation, in three metabolic genes: glucokinase regulatory protein (GCKR), phytanol-CoA 2-hydroxylase (PHYH), and pancreatic α-amylase 2B (AMY2B). These genes code for proteins that are responsible for metabolizing dietary products that originate from distinctly different food types: sugar, meat, and starch, respectively. After surveying copy number variation among dogs with diverse dietary histories, we found no correlation between diet and positive selection in either GCKR or PHYH. Although it has been previously demonstrated that dogs experienced a copy number increase in AMY2B relative to wolves during or after the dog domestication process, we demonstrate that positive selection continued to act on amylase copy number in dog breeds that consumed starch-rich diets in time periods after domestication. Furthermore, we found that introgression with wolves is not responsible for deterioration of positive selection on AMY2B among diverse dog breeds. Together, this supports the hypothesis that the amylase copy number expansion is found universally in dogs.
Perceived Risk in Buying Apparel from Selected Retail Patronage Modes

The notion of perceived risk as an important influence on consumer behavior has been well documented. This study examines the perceived risk associated with nine apparel categories purchased from six retail patronage modes. The findings indicate that there are significant differences in the amount of risk associated with purchasing apparel from the different retail modes. Similarly, apparel products purchased from the same retail mode also exhibited significant differences.
Trans effect in halobismuthates and haloantimonates revisited. Molecular structures and vibrations from theoretical calculations.

Ab initio and density functional theory computations have been carried out to calculate the structures and vibrational spectra of halobismuthates and haloantimonates of formulas MX6(3-), M2X10(4-), and M2X9(3-) for M = Bi or Sb and X = I, Br, or Cl. The results have been compared to experimental crystal structures and the infrared and Raman spectra of these species as well as the (MX5(2-))n and (MX4(1-))n anions. Even though the calculations neglect the effect of which cation is present, they do a good job in verifying the observed trends in bond distances and bond stretching vibrational frequencies. External bonds across from bridging bonds are the shortest and have the highest stretching frequencies for all of the ions investigated. This supports the previously postulated "trans effect". Since the calculations were carried out for individual noninteracting anions, the computed results can be expected to best represent the idealized species unperturbed by the effect of the cations present. The trans effect results in shortening of the M-X bonds by 0.08-0.13 A. It also leads to frequency increases of about 20% for the M-X stretching vibrations.
Further Developments to a Local Correlation Based Roughness Model for Boundary Layer Transition Prediction.

A study has been conducted to improve the correlations within a computational roughness amplification model implemented in the unsteady RANS solver OVERFLOW-2. The model extends the Langtry-Menter transition model by introducing an additional scalar field roughness amplification quantity, Ar. This additional variable and transport equation allows non-local effects of surface roughness to be accounted for downstream of rough sections. Initially the model was not equipped to account for the influence of a strong local pressure gradient and experiments have shown discrepancies compared to predictions from the model. Accordingly, the model has been reformulated to include the effects of localized pressure gradients. Additionally included are suggestions for accounting for changes in roughness density. With the equations governing the roughness model recast, the model has been calibrated using the results from the companion experimental study performed at Texas A&M University. An overview of the experimental campaign is provided along with results of the roughness amplification model applied to the configurations tested.
A Three-Dimensional Model of American Foreign Policy Beliefs

The authors employ a theoretic model that identifies three basic goals of foreign policy—identity, security, and prosperity. Many scholars limit themselves by using a two-dimensional model of foreign policy beliefs which ignores the goal of identity. This research note demonstrates that standard factor analysis of extant data on foreign policy goals over time consistently supports a three-dimensional model which gives prominence to the multilateral—unilateral dimension of identity. The research also shows that this three-dimensional model is superior to one- or two-dimensional models in providing explanation and prediction of more specific foreign policy stances.
Fluoride-induced changes in ashed bone mineral of growing sheep. An X-ray diffraction analysis.

Physical differences were noted in the inner and outer parts of the tibial cortex of a sheep drinking water containing 100 parts per million of fluoride. In this animal's cortex and in the cortex of sheep fed one and ten parts per million, the fluoride content of the mineral was higher than that of a control sheep and higher in the outer than in the inner part of the cortex of the animals receiving fluoride. X-ray diffraction of the mineral phase after ashing demonstrated apatite in all animals and in those receiving ten and 100 parts per million, a second mineral phase, whitlockite, located in the outer cortical bone.
Evaluation of a University-Based Mandatory Vaccine Program

The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of an educational program for the University’s mandatory vaccination program. The study examined the relationship between level of edu...
An Observation on Two Methods of Obtaining Solutions to Variational Problems

In this paper, we compare two methods for obtaining solutions for free problems in the calculus of variations. The first is due to Caratheodory (Ref. 1) and the second due to Leitmann (Ref. 2). Both methods introduce the notion of equivalent variational problems. Using either approach, an auxiliary problem is obtained for which the solution is more easily obtained. We compare both approaches by using each to solve the same class of examples. We conclude our discussion by unifying the two approaches into one and illustrating the potential of this new method through the use of an elementary example.
A Qualitative Study Among Mexican Americans to Understand Factors Influencing the Adoption and Enforcement of Home Smoking Bans.

Introduction One-third of Mexican-American children, in addition to nonsmoker adults, are exposed to secondhand smoke at home, yet few interventions target Mexican-American households. An effective, brief English language program, tested with United Way 2-1-1 callers in Atlanta, increased home smoking bans (confirmed by air monitors). Two randomized controlled trials in North Carolina and Texas replicated those results. We explored factors determining adoption and enforcement of smoking bans in Mexican-American households to inform program linguistic and cultural adaptation to broaden program reach and relevance. Methods Bilingual interviewers recruited convenience samples of Mexican-American smokers and nonsmokers living with at least one smoker in Houston and San Diego households and asked open-ended questions regarding conditions for implementing home and vehicle smoking bans and conditions for varying acceptance of bans. Investigators independently reviewed English transcripts and completed a descriptive analysis using ATLAS.ti. Results Participants (n = 43) were predominantly female (n = 31), current smokers (n = 26), interviewed in Spanish (n = 26), had annual household incomes less than $30000 (n = 24), and allowed smoking inside the home (n = 24). Themes related to difficulty creating and enforcing bans included courtesy, respect for guests and heads of household who smoke, and gender imbalances in decision making. Participants viewed protecting children's health as a reason for the ban but not protecting adult nonsmokers' health. Conclusion A dual-language, culturally adapted intervention targeting multigenerational Mexican-American households should address household differences regarding language and consider influences of cultural values on family dynamics and interactions with guests that may weaken bans. Implications Qualitative interviews suggested cultural and family considerations to address in adapting a brief evidence-based smoke-free homes intervention for Mexican Americans, including traditional gender roles, unique contexts of multigenerational households, and language preferences. Our work confirms previous research among Latinos regarding importance of common cultural constructs, such as respeto (deference), simpatia (courtesy and agreeability), and familismo (family attachment), which inform behaviors that may impede or facilitate adopting and enforcing home smoking bans. Decision-making gender imbalances, high regard for head-of-household and guest smokers, and less sensitivity to the health of nonsmoker adults compared with children may lead to permission to smoke indoors.
Dopaminergic inhibition of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons in the cichlid fish Astatotilapia burtoni.

ABSTRACT Dopamine regulates reproduction in part by modulating neuronal activity within the hypothalamic-pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis. Previous studies suggested numerous mechanisms by which dopamine exerts inhibitory control over the HPG axis, ultimately changing the levels of sex steroids that regulate reproductive behaviors. However, it is not known whether these mechanisms are conserved across vertebrate species. In particular, it is unknown whether mechanisms underlying dopaminergic control of reproduction are shared between mammals and teleost fish. In mammals, dopamine directly inhibits gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH1) hypothalamic neurons, the gatekeepers for activation of the HPG axis. Here, we demonstrate, for the first time in teleost fish, dopaminergic control of GnRH1 neurons via direct dopamine type-2-like receptor (D2R)-mediated inhibition within the hypothalamus. These results suggest that direct dopaminergic control of GnRH1 neurons via interactions in the hypothalamus is not exclusive to tetrapod reproductive control, but is likely conserved across vertebrate species.
Calr Is up-Regulated in Patients with Essential Thrombocythemia Independently from Calr and JAK2 Mutations

Somatic mutations in exon 9 of calreticulin ( CALR ) gene were recently discovered in patients with essential thrombocythemia (ET) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF) lacking JAK2 and MPL mutations, and absent in patient with polycythemia vera (PV). Among patients with ET or PMF with un-mutated JAK2 or MPL , CALR mutations were detected in 67% of those with ET and 88% of those with primary PMF. Several types of insertions or deletions were identified and all resulted in a frameshift in exon 9 generating a novel C-terminal peptide in the mutant CALR protein. Over expression of the most frequent CALR deletion caused cytokine-independent growth in vitro owing to the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) by means of an unknown mechanism. Patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms carrying CALR mutations present with higher platelet counts and lower haemoglobin levels than patients with mutated JAK2. Studies suggest these patients have a lower risk of thrombosis and longer overall survival than patients with mutated JAK2 . We analysed by Real Time PCR, CALR expression in peripheral blood (PB) of 38 patients affected by ET, 17 JAK2 mutated (45%), 4 CALR (10.5%) mutated, 1 MPL mutated (3%) and 14 with no apparent molecular abnormalities. These were compared with a cohort of healthy volunteers. We found a significant over expression of CALR (median 5.15; range 1.13-270.08) comparing with controls (median 0.38, range 0.18-1). CALR mRNA expression is independent from the CALR mutational status. No significant difference was found comparing CALR expression in CALR mutated (median 4.9, range 1.51-37.14) and CALR/JAK2 un-mutated patients (4.68, range 1.51-28.71). CALR up-regulation is not mutually exclusive with JAK2 mutations; no difference was seen in CALR mRNA between JAK2 mutated (median 5.09, range 1.13-270) and wild type ET patients (median 5.08, range 1.51-37). There was no significant difference when we correlated CALR expression with PLT counts, spleen size or type of cytoreductive therapy. A larger cohort of patients is required to confirm these preliminary findings. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Presence of a [3Fe–4S] cluster in a PsaC variant as a functional component of the photosystem I electron transfer chain in Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002

A site-directed C14G mutation was introduced into the stromal PsaC subunit of Synechococcus sp. strain PCC 7002 in vivo in order to introduce an exchangeable coordination site into the terminal FB [4Fe-4S] cluster of Photosystem I (PSI). Using an engineered PSI-less strain (psaAB deletion), psaC was deleted and replaced with recombinant versions controlled by a strong promoter, and the psaAB deletion was complemented. Modified PSI accumulated at lower levels in this strain and supported slower photoautotrophic growth than wild type. As-isolated PSI complexes containing PsaCC14G showed resonances with g values of 2.038 and 2.007 characteristic of a [3Fe-4S]1+ cluster. When the PSI complexes were illuminated at 15 K, these resonances partially disappeared and two new sets of resonances appeared. The majority set had g values of 2.05, 1.95, and 1.85, characteristic of FA-, and the minority set had g values of 2.11, 1.90, and 1.88 from FB' in the modified site. The S = 1/2 spin state of the latter implied the presence of a thiolate as the terminal ligand. The [3Fe-4S] clusters could be partially reconstituted with iron, producing a larger population of [4Fe-4S] clusters. Rates of flavodoxin reduction were identical in PSI complexes isolated from wild type and the PsaCC14G variant strain; this implied equivalent capacity for forward electron transfer in PSI complexes that contained [3Fe-4S] and [4Fe-4S] clusters. The development of this cyanobacterial strain is a first step toward translation of in vitro PSI-based biosolar molecular wire systems in vivo and provides new insights into the formation of Fe/S clusters.
NRF1 Is an ER Membrane Sensor that Is Central to Cholesterol Homeostasis

Cholesterol is a critical nutrient requiring tight constraint in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) due to its uniquely challenging biophysical properties. While the mechanisms by which the ER defends against cholesterol insufficiency are well described, it remains unclear how the ER senses and effectively defends against cholesterol excess. Here, we identify the ER-bound transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor-1, Nrf1/Nfe2L1, as a critical mediator of this process. We show that Nrf1 directly binds to and specifically senses cholesterol in the ER through a defined domain and that cholesterol regulates Nrf1 turnover, processing, localization, and activity. In Nrf1 deficiency, in vivo cholesterol challenges induce massive hepatic cholesterol accumulation and damage, which is rescued by replacing Nrf1 exogenously. This Nrf1-mediated mechanism involves the suppression of CD36-driven inflammatory signaling and derepression of liver X receptor activity. These findings reveal Nrf1 as a guardian of cholesterol homeostasis and a core component of adaptive responses to excess cellular cholesterol.
Routine activities and adolescent deviance across 28 cultures

Abstract Purpose The current study tested the links between routine activities and deviance across twenty-eight countries, thus, the potential generalizability of the routine activities framework. Methods Data were collected as part of the Second International Self-Report Delinquency Study (ISRD-2) from 28 cultures, from seventh, eighth, and ninth grade adolescents ( N = 66,859). Routine activities were operationalized as family, peer, solitary, and community activities. Country-level predictors included unemployment rate, prison population, life expectancy, and educational attainment. Results Three-level, hierarchical linear modeling (individual, school, and country) was used to test both individual and country-level effects on deviance. Findings supported predictions by the routine activities framework, where routine activities explained 3.1% unique variance in deviance, above and beyond effects by background variables as well as low self-control. Models showed that the effects of family activities, solitary activities, and peer activities were stronger in countries with higher life expectancies. In addition, mean educational attainment increased the effect of solitary activities on deviance, while the effect of family activities on deviance was lower in countries with higher levels of unemployment. Conclusions The routine activities framework generalized across these 28 countries in how it explains deviance; some unique country-level effects were found that conditioned person-context links.
Stochastic decision optimisation based on deterministic approximations of processes described as closed-form arithmetic simulation

AbstractWe propose an efficient one-stage stochastic optimisation algorithm for the problem of finding process controls that minimise the expectation of cost while satisfying multiple deterministic and stochastic feasibility constraints with a given high probability. The proposed algorithm is based on a series of deterministic approximations to produce a candidate solution set and on a refinement step using stochastic simulations with optimal simulation budget allocation. We conduct an experimental study for a real-world manufacturing service network, which shows that the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms four popular simulation-based stochastic optimisation algorithms.
Evaluation of Histogel- and Gelfoam-embedded bronchoalveolar lavage and transtracheal wash fluids compared with cytocentrifuged and sediment smear preparations.

BACKGROUND Storage and temperature significantly impact bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) analysis, and shipment of samples to diagnostic laboratories is often necessary. Alternative sample preparation methods could limit storage and temperature effects. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine if airway wash samples that were fixed in formalin after being embedded in Histogel or Gelfoam gave comparable results to fresh cytocentrifuged or sediment smear preparations for the evaluation of cell morphology. METHODS Eleven bronchoalveolar lavage and 3 transtracheal wash fluids were available, including 8 canine, 1 feline, and 5 equine samples. Cytocentrifuged and sediment smear preparations were prepared for routine analysis. Airway fluids were reserved for further evaluation. Total nucleated cell counts (TNCCs) were determined using a hemocytometer. The remaining fluid was used for Histogel and Gelfoam preparations. Each preparation was analyzed by a single board-certified clinical pathologist and assigned cellularity (1-3) and morphology scores (1-4). RESULTS Cellularity and morphology were significantly worse for the sediment smear, Histogel, and Gelfoam preparations compared with the cytocentrifuged preparations. The Gelfoam preparations had significantly worse cellularity scores than all other methods. Cellularity scores for sediment smears and Histogel preparations were significantly correlated with TNCCs. CONCLUSIONS TNCCs impacted the cellularity of the sediment smears and Histogel preparations. Cytocentrifuged preparations resulted in the best cellularity and morphology and are, therefore, recommended whenever possible. Neither the Histogel nor the Gelfoam methods demonstrated any advantage over sediment smear preparations, and both performed poorly when compared with cytocentrifuged preparations. Therefore, we do not recommend the use of these methods.
An Annular Eruption in a Young Child.

A young child presented to clinic with a 6-month history of an asymptomatic expanding erythematous eruption on the lower legs, abdomen, and buttocks (Figure, A). The eruption would wax and wane, with each episode lasting for approximately 1 week, without residual pigmentation. Clinical examination was significant for faint, nonscaling annular serpiginous, erythematous plaques with central clearing, and barely elevated borders. Test results for erythrocyte sedimentation rate, complete blood cell count, antinuclear antibodies, anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies, and Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies were within normal limits. There was no family history of autoimmune disease, and the child had not experienced any fevers or exposures to ticks or other arthropods. A punch biopsy specimen from the left thigh was obtained, and histopathological analysis was subsequently performed (Figure, B and C).
Introduction: Explaining Instructional Explanations

The explanatory fragment above comes from an extended classroom discussion in mathematics. The discussion had descriptions, posed problems, supported debates, and it also contained explanations. Explanations are particularly powerful moments in teaching, and while each explanatory moment is unique, constrained by classroom histories, subject matter conventions, and instructional goals, there are some core features present in effective instructional explanations that tend to be absent in less effective ones. Much of my work has been concerned with the patterns and forms associated with effective explanations in different subject areas. Instructional explanations are important because they “carry” the overall pedagogical messages of the classroom through both style and stance and because they contain critical elements of legitimacy, modality, and function from the discipline whether that discipline is history, mathematics, physics, or poetry. Instructional Explanations, whether delivered by the teacher alone or through the process of focused discussion, are a central deliberate act of teaching
A Bayesian Model to Predict Survival After Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

Abstract Objectives This study investigates the use of a Bayesian statistical models to predict survival at various time points in patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. Background LVADs are being increasingly used in patients with end-stage heart failure. Appropriate patient selection continues to be key in optimizing post-LVAD outcomes. Methods Data used for this study were derived from 10,277 adult patients from the INTERMACS (Inter-Agency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support) who had a primary LVAD implanted between January 2012 and December 2015. Risk for mortality was calculated retrospectively for various time points (1, 3, and 12 months) after LVAD implantation, using multiple pre-implantation variables. For each of these endpoints, a separate tree-augmented naive Bayes model was constructed using the most predictive variables. Results A set of 29, 26, and 31 pre-LVAD variables were found to be predictive at 1, 3, and 12 months, respectively. Predictors of 1-month mortality included low Inter-Agency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support profile, number of acute events in the 48 h before surgery, temporary mechanical circulatory support, and renal and hepatic dysfunction. Variables predicting 12-month mortality included advanced age, frailty, device strategy, and chronic renal disease. The accuracy of all Bayesian models was between 76% and 87%, with an area under the receiver operative characteristics curve of between 0.70 and 0.71. Conclusions A Bayesian prognostic model for predicting survival based on the comprehensive INTERMACS registry provided highly accurate predictions of mortality based on pre-operative variables. These models may facilitate clinical decision-making while screening candidates for LVAD therapy.
Volatile organic compounds emissions from North American engineered wood products

Although formaldehyde emissions from interior wood products have been extensively studied emissions of other volatile organic compounds VOCs have received less attention and engineered products are seldom study Thus thirteen commercially ndash bonded engineered wood products structural plywood oriented strandboard structural composite lumber I ndash joists and glued ndash laminated timber from North America were evaluated for VOCs using methods developed for interior bonded wood products The dominate volatiles for the different products were greatly dependent on wood species and bonding process used preventing a universal conclusion In fact the volatiles from the adhesives seem to play a minor role For example the volatiles of Douglas fir plywood and southern pine plywood and oriented strandboard are all quite different from each other These data provide a basis for any future studies on bonded structural engineered wood products
Variation of surgery clerkship grades in US medical schools.

Abstract Background Despite efforts at standardization, evaluation and reporting of clerkships remains highly variable. This study reviews the current spectrum of surgical clerkship grading. Methods Data were reviewed for every medical school from which an application was received to a single surgery residency program in 2017 and were evaluated for core surgical clerkship grading systems, distributions, and components. Fischer's exact tests and Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests were used for analysis. Results 133 (49 private) schools were evaluated. Geographic distribution:34 Northeast, 50 South, 31 Midwest and 18 West. 120 reported grading tiers, with public schools (95%) more likely than private (80%) to report this (p = 0.02). The number of grading categories ranged from 2 to 11; 90% with 3–5. Over 25% of the schools gave ≥40% of students the highest grade; median of 30% in the highest tier. Conclusions Significant variation exists in core surgery clerkship grading between schools. Similarly, a sizeable difference exists in how grades are calculated and the reporting systems used. Standardizing grading schemes across medical schools would be beneficial.
Intersession improvement and outcome in psychotherapy

OBJECTIVE Psychotherapy patients who experience large, stable symptomatic improvement between sessions are more likely than those without such sudden gains to benefit from treatment. However, there is limited empirical basis for the definition of sudden gains, and it is unclear how they may affect symptomatic change at other points in treatment. METHOD In a psychotherapy training clinic, 149 adults completed a distress measure at each session. For each criterion in the definition of sudden gains, we evaluated the prediction of outcome, possible moderating variables, local score instability, and multisession change before and after score shifts. RESULTS Large intersession improvement did not lead to increased rate of change later in treatment, but it did predict outcome, regardless of whether nearby session scores were stable. Early improvement during the first five treatment sessions was an independent predictor of outcome. Large intersession improvement generally occurred in the context of local score instability. CONCLUSION Sudden gains appear to predict outcome because of improvement inherent in the gains themselves. Early overall improvement predicts outcome almost as effectively as do sudden gains. There may be advantages to redefining sudden gains as large intersession improvement, regardless of local score stability.
How Women Talk in Indian Democracy

In democracies, political institutions based on deliberation offer citizens scope for talk-based participation in development and governance. A prominent example is the Indian gram sabha, or village assembly. We undertake a talk-centered analysis of women’s participation in village assemblies and examine if associational membership, in the form of self-help group (SHG) membership, makes a difference in how women frame their concerns and demands addressed to the state. Analyzing 255 village assembly transcripts from four South Indian states, we find that women’s participation varies vastly between states, and SHG membership matters for narrative style. In Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, women associated with SHGs employed a wider variety of narrative styles and utilized a more complex structure to convey their problems and demands compared to non-member women. Drawing on this analysis, we argue that SHGs contribute to deepening democracy by improving the quality of women’s participation in deliberative political institutions. We discuss the mechanisms through which this influence might come to bear. This study contributes to understanding the link between associational life and democracy and the political sociology of democracy.
Abstract 3184: A secondary mutation in BRAF confers resistance to RAF inhibition in a BRAF V600E-mutant brain tumor

BRAF V600E hyperactivates ERK and signals as an RAF inhibitor-sensitive monomer. While RAF inhibitors can produce impressive clinical responses in patients with mutant BRAF tumors, the mechanisms of resistance to these drugs are incompletely characterized. Here, we report a complete response followed by clinical progression in a patient with a BRAF V600E-mutant brain tumor treated with dabrafenib. Whole-exome sequencing revealed a secondary BRAF L514V mutation at progression that was not present in the pretreatment tumor. Expressing BRAF V600E L514V induces ERK signaling, promotes RAF dimer formation, and is sufficient to confer resistance to dabrafenib. A novel class of RAF dimer inhibitors and an ERK inhibitor are effective against BRAF L514V-mediated resistance. Collectively, our results validate a novel biochemical mechanism of RAF inhibitor resistance mediated by a secondary mutation, emphasizing that like driver mutations in cancer, the spectrum of mutations that drive resistance to targeted therapy are heterogeneous and perhaps emerge with a lineage-specific prevalence. Citation Format: Jiawan Wang, Zhan Yao, Philip Jonsson, Amy Allen, Alice Can Ran Qin, Sharmeen Uddin, Ira J. Dunkel, Mary Petriccione, Katia Manova, Sofia Haque, Marc Rosenblum, David J. Pisapia, Neal Rosen, Barry S. Taylor, Christine A. Pratilas. A secondary mutation in BRAF confers resistance to RAF inhibition in a BRAF V600E-mutant brain tumor [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3184.
The displacive compensation of porosity (DCP) method for fabricating dense, shaped, high-ceramic-bearing bodies at modest temperatures

A novel process is introduced for the fabrication of dense, shaped ceramic/metal composites of high ceramic content: the Displacive Compensation of Porosity (DCP) method. In this process, a metallic liquid is allowed to infiltrate and undergo a displacement reaction with a porous oxide preform. Unlike other displacement-reaction-based processes (e.g., the C4, RMP, and AAA processes), a larger volume of oxide is generated than is consumed, so that composites with relatively high ceramic contents can be fabricated. Bar- and disk-shaped MgO/Mg-Al composites were produced by the infiltration and reaction of molten Mg with porous Al2O3 preforms at 1000 °C. By varying the relative density of the preforms (from 53.3 to 71.0% of theoretical), the magnesia content of the final composites could be adjusted from 70.4 to 85.6 vol %. Because the increase in oxide volume associated with the conversion of alumina into magnesia was accommodated by the prior pore volume of the preforms, the composites retained the shapes and dimensions (to within a few percent) of the starting preforms. The MgO/Mg-Al composites were lightweight (2.94–3.30 g/cm3), dense (97.7–99.0% of theoretical), and resistant to hydration. Bar-shaped MgO/Mg-Al composites exhibited average flexural strength and indentation toughness values of 244 MPa and 5.4 MPa · m1/2, respectively.
Modern Archeological Mapping: Towards Immersive VR Use in Archeology

Abstract. Detailed mapping is essential to systematic archeological practice and is conducted in five stages: identification, evaluation and excavation, site preservation and documentation, analysis and interpretation, and education. As archeological mapping evolves the five stages remain the same, enhanced by the integration of new geoinformation technologies to better record archeological information. Even with technological advances essential spatial data and mapping products are often overlooked when archeological information reaches the education stage. This disconnect occurs when artefacts are exhibited without considering communicating spatial context, i.e. presented behind glass cabinets. This is a critical concern as understanding spatial context is essential to grasping heritage site histories. As a solution to this wide-reaching issue in geovisualization and the digital humanities, this research proposes a framework for developing immersive virtual reality heritage site applications that preserve the spatial context of archeological mapping. Applying the framework, this research produced the heritage site application “VR Riverbend”, which successfully relinks archeological materials with essential spatial context. Thus, VR Riverbend connects archeological data with place, remedying issues of artefact/context disconnect inherent in traditional exhibits. Developing immersive VR heritage site applications following the introduced framework provides a solution towards effective spatial and often multi-layered archeological heritage site education.
Aronson-Bénilan estimates for the fast diffusion equation under the Ricci flow

Abstract We study the fast diffusion equation with a linear forcing term, (0.1) ∂ u ∂ t = div ( | u | p − 1 ∇ u ) + R u , under the Ricci flow on a complete manifold M such that M × R 2 has bounded curvature and nonnegative isotropic curvature, where 0 p 1 and R = R ( x , t ) is the evolving scalar curvature of M at time t . We prove Aronson–Benilan and Li–Yau–Hamilton type differential Harnack estimates for positive solutions of (0.1) . In addition, we use similar method to prove certain Li–Yau–Hamilton estimates for the heat equation and conjugate heat equation which extend those obtained in Cao and Hamilton (2009), Cao (2008), and Kuang and Zhang (2008) to the noncompact setting.
Civic engagement, social capital, and ideological extremity: Exploring online political engagement and political expression on Facebook:

Using a method incorporating both survey and trace data measures, this study presented and tested a theoretical model for understanding political expression on Facebook. The data suggested that sel...
Accuracy of the Ankle-brachial Index in the Assessment of Arterial Perfusion of Heel Pressure Injuries.

Background The evaluation and treatment of heel pressure injuries are a significant and expensive sequela of the aging population. Although the workup of patients with lower extremity tissue loss usually involves an assessment of the arterial blood flow by means of noninvasive vascular testing, the results may be misleading in patients with heel pressure injuries when the ankle-brachial index (ABI) does not provide direct information about perfusion of the rearfoot. The objective of this retrospective, observational investigation was to determine if noninvasive vascular testing provides accurate and reliable results in patients with heel pressure injuries. Materials and methods A retrospective chart review of 67 consecutive inpatients with 75 heel decubitus ulcerations was performed. Results At least 1 noncompressible ankle artery was observed in 35 (46.67%) of the 75 feet. When at least 1 compressible vessel was present, allowing for calculation of an ABI (n = 49 feet), it was based on the posterior tibial artery in 23 (46.94%) feet and on the anterior tibial artery in 26 (53.06%) feet. In total, of the 75 feet with heel pressure injuries that underwent noninvasive vascular testing, a compressible posterior tibial artery allowing for calculation of an ABI as a direct measure of heel perfusion was observed in only 23 (30.67%) feet. Conclusions The results of this study suggest noninvasive vascular testing may be inaccurate and unreliable in the majority of patients with heel pressure injuries.
Correlation Between the Resonator Properties and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectra of Silicon Oxynitride Films for Surface Acoustic Wave Devices

In this paper, we discuss the temperature coefficient of frequency (TCF) and Q factor in the structure of SiO x N y / LiTaO 3 . We studied the relationship of the TCF and Q factor with the optical properties of the SiO x N y films measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). We found that the Q factor of the device increased while TCF was decreased as the Si-O bond angle decreased in SiOxNy film. These results indicate that the Si-O atomic structure measured by FT-IR governs the device properties even when the N dopant is added.
Combined microRNA and mRNA detection in mammalian retinas by in situ hybridization chain reaction

Improved in situ hybridization methods for mRNA detection in tissues have been developed based on the hybridization chain reaction (HCR). We show that in situ HCR methods can be used for the detection of microRNAs in tissue sections from mouse retinas. In situ HCR can be used for the detection of two microRNAs simultaneously or for the combined detection of microRNA and mRNA. In addition, miRNA in situ HCR can be combined with immunodetection of proteins. We use these methods to characterize cells expressing specific microRNAs in the mouse retina. We find that miR-181a is expressed in amacrine cells during development and in adult retinas, and it is present in both GABAergic and glycinergic amacrine cells. The detection of microRNAs with in situ HCR should facilitate studies of microRNA function and gene regulation in the retina and other tissues.
Study on Hot-line Calibration for 10kV Watt-hour Metering Device

Fewer power losses are required for transmission lines; thus, the need for improving the operating and maintenance level of power loss is becoming an urgent need. Although the design and layout standards for the high-voltage electric energy metering device in the distribution network have gradually become complete and competent, still some defects exist in the high-voltage metering device. First, owing to the higher requirements for the power-cut, the replacement speed of 10kV high-voltage power metering devices is much slower than that of low-voltage meters. Second, due to the failure of power-cut, the on-site calibration of high-voltage metering electric energy devices can only measure the low-voltage part, while the on-site calibration of high-voltage PT and CT cannot be implemented. In this case, there is no reliable measurement to obtain the overall site error of high-voltage electric energy metering device, and flashovers would be generated. In this paper, a novel device of on-site calibration for the 10kV watt-hour metering devices was proposed. The live operation of the proposed device and the analysis of the device compared with the existing meters in the 10kV distribution network is illustrated. Compared with existing devices, the novel device not only performs the on-line verification test for the existing metering devices but also achieves the accuracy of measurement of the active power to 0.1 level at the dynamic range of 5A- 500A.
Ancient Trade in the Near East

Near Eastern societies quickly recognized the need to establish approved practices governing trade and commerce. The advent of writing helped preserve the legacies of Hammurabi and the Laws of Eshnunna. Basic ethical business practices became edicts. The voluminous, if often frustratingly incomplete, writings enabled historians to describe in detail how the ancients transacted business. The early Israelites also created a myriad of edicts regarding approved behavior; these edicts sometimes distinguished between behavior toward co-religionists and outsiders.