cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neutron diffraction measurement of residual stresses in Al-clad U-10Mo fuel plates

Abstract Neutron diffraction was used to determine residual stress in monolithic two Al-clad U 10 weight percent Mo mini-fuel plates and a full sized fuel plate. One mini-plate was cooled following hot isostatic pressing at a rate of 6.75 °C/min, the second at 0.675 °C/min. A non-traditional method of calibrating the neutron diffractometer at each measurement point was necessitated by the thin nature of the sample. The in-plane stresses in the U–10Mo foils are relatively large, −250 MPa in the U–10Mo foil of the fast cooled mini-plate,-150 MPa in the slow cooled mini-plate and −275 MPa in the full-sized plate. Likewise, the in-plane stresses in the Al-cladding of the fast-cooled mini-plate and full-sized plate were determined to reach ∼50 MPa, while in the slow-cooled sample the stresses in the Al cladding were on the level of the measurement uncertainty. The in-plane stresses in the Zr diffusion barrier were estimated to be as large as −300 MPa.
Dynamic response of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene under impact loading

The goal of the study is to understand the potential energy absorption benefits ofcomponents fabricated using fused deposition modeling additive manufacturing under high strain rateloading. Tensile tests were conducted on 3-D printed acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) at differentstrain rates, according to the ASTM D638 standard, to assess its strain rate sensitivity under quasi-staticloads. The tensile test was also necessary to determine the mechanical properties necessary to characterizethe dynamic response of the ABS at high strain rates. The ABS specimens were subjected to high strainrate deformation through the use of the split Hopkinson pressure bar. During compression, a new phenomenon described as a multistage collapse in which the samplesundergo multiple stages of contraction and expansion was observed as the impact load was applied. Thismultistage deformation behavior may be attributable to the ring formed around layers in the specimen dueto the manner of fabrication which potentially absorbed and released the energy, thus acting as a multistage spring. As the velocity of impact increases, it is observed that the ABS capability for energy absorption decreased to where there was only one stage of compression equivalent to the initial stage. The multistage collapse of the 3-D printed ABS specimen indicates a potential for a novel energy absorption mechanism to be exploited at lower strain rates. Future work in the area should include more studies about printing orientation, as well as investigating the impact of the presence of the outer cylindrical ring on the overall dynamic response.
Tranformation of lymphocytes of normal and hospitalized adults by Candida albicans extract.

SummaryCandida extract caused significant tritiated-thymidine uptake (> 5,000 cpm, S/C > 4) in lymphocyte cultures from all normal adults tested. In contrast, in 22% of hospitalized patients, the antigen produced transformation less than any normal subject, and S/C < 4. The difference in candidainduced transformation between normal and hospitalized subjects was statistically significant, while no significant difference in conventional PHA stimulation could be demonstrated.The author thanks Mr. B. B. Cartwright and Miss S. E. Hieny for technical assistance, and Dr. R. Vander Zwaag for performing statistical analyses.
Competition binding assay using o-methyl-[3H]-demethyl-gamma-amanitin for study of RNA polymerase B.

SummaryAn improved method permitting the synthesis of a radioactive derivative of α-amanitin from a small amount of the commercially available parent compound has been developed. The labeled derivative was used in an amatoxin competition binding assay designed to detect eukaryotic RNA polymerase B in either purified form or in crude homogenates. Both compounds are shown to compete for the same binding site and with approximately the same affinity. The competition assay proves to be both sensitive and highly selective for RNA polymerase B and provides a new, direct method for studying the enzyme-amanitin interaction over a much broader range of concentration than previously reported.We greatly appreciate the assistance of Ms. Aphia Abdou in preparation of illustrations, Ms. Donna Chambers for secretarial assistance, and Drs. John A. Armstrong, Patricia A. Craven and Mary Edmonds for critically reviewing the manuscript. This work was supported through the Medical Research Service of the U. S. Veterans Admin...
Clinical management of achalasia: current state of the art

Achalasia is a primary disorder of esophageal motility. It classically presents with dysphagia to both solids and liquids but may be accompanied by regurgitation and chest pain. The gold standard for the diagnosis of achalasia is esophageal motility testing with manometry, which often reveals aperistalsis of the esophageal body and incomplete lower esophageal sphincter relaxation. The diagnosis is aided by complimentary tests, such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy and contrast radiography. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy is indicated to rule out mimickers of the disease known as "pseudoachalasia" (eg, malignancy). Endoscopic appearance of a dilated esophagus with retained food or saliva and a puckered lower esophageal sphincter should raise suspicion for achalasia. Additionally, barium esophagography may reveal a dilated esophagus with a distal tapering giving it a "bird's beak" appearance. Multiple therapeutic modalities aid in the management of achalasia, the decision of which depends on operative risk factors. Conventional treatments include medical therapy, botulinum toxin injection, pneumatic dilation, and Heller myotomy. The last two are defined as the most definitive treatment options. New emerging therapies include peroral endoscopic myotomy, placement of self-expanding metallic stents, and endoscopic sclerotherapy.
Fractographic Signs of the Mechanisms of Transportation of Hydrogen in Structural Steels

We reveal various microfractographic signs of crack propagation in steels under the influence of hydrogenating media. These signs are related to the transportation of hydrogen in the process zone at the crack tip according to the diffusion or dislocation mechanisms. The intergranular fracture under cyclic loading shows that the hydrogen diffusion along grain boundaries is predominant. The transgranular fracture is caused by the combined action of the dislocation mechanism responsible for the intense hydrogenation of the metal along slip bands and the diffusion mechanism promoting the redistribution of hydrogen along the interfaces inside the grains.
A design study for the safe integration of Unmanned Aerial Systems into the National Airspace System

Since 2013 Unmanned Aerial Systems, commonly called drones, have become a disruptive technology in the consumer market and the National Airspace System due to their decreasing costs and increased consumer interest. Sales of drones have experienced growth in excess of 500 percent from 2014 to 2016. According to the Federal Aviation Administration the number of incidents involving drones has also grown. The Federal Aviation Administration currently provides few regulations for drones, instead offering advisories to drone operators. In order to determine a course of action for safe integration, the Federal Aviation Administration instituted a pilot reporting database of incidents involving drones. In over 97% of the incidents reported, the drone operators were not following altitude and location advisories. This paper examines the effectiveness of geofencing systems for drones and compares its effectiveness to the current proposed regulations and traditional collision avoidance systems. A Monte Carlo simulation using growth and incident rates of drones based on the incident data is used to determine the utility of each alternative. The alternatives are then analyzed through a utility function and evaluated on a cost/utility basis. The result shows that limiting flight operations to the regulated thresholds provides a cost effective method for adding safety to the operation of drones within the National Airspace System.
Radiotherapeutic management of medulloblastoma

Although craniospinal irradiation has been employed in children with medulloblastoma for the past 40 years, many issues concerning its use have been raised and examined, and some continue to be debated. Careful radiation technique includes adequate irradiation of the neuraxis with special attention to the cribriform plate region and termination of the thecal sac. Conventional-dose craniospinal radiation therapy, in combination with chemotherapy, is currently recommended for patients with high-risk medulloblastoma. The appropriate dose of radiation to the craniospinal axis when this modality is combined with chemotherapy for low-risk medulloblastoma remains to be defined. Long-term results of hyperfractionated radiation therapy are likewise awaited. In an effort to decrease late toxicity to the immature central nervous system, radiation therapy can be delayed in a proportion of infants by administering chemotherapy after maximal tumor debulking.
Tourism Experience and Tourism Design

This chapter argues that experiences are dynamic and emotional in nature and should be conceptualized as a series of ‘micro-events’ during the trip. Further, the advent of new sensor technology provides new tools for understanding the ways in which these experiences—events are perceived and the meanings created hold great promise in addressing a number of critical questions empowering the design of tourism places. We then describe traveler experiences through a series of case studies.
Implication of Molten Globule on the Function and Toxicity of a Protein

Molten globule (MG) are the compact globules with significant amount of native secondary structure and a relatively higher side chain mobility compared to native form, stabilized by non-specific hydrophobic interactions. MG states are better understood in the context of the protein folding process existing as the intermediate states. The MG state was long believed to be a non-active state of protein owing to the loss of tertiary structure and different folding than the native state. A better understanding of MG structures in the recent years have however revealed the functional roles of MG states. The MG states are majorly involved in the functioning of biological processes by existing at various intermediate levels during the protein folding or unfolding processes. Majorly, MG functional roles are involved in cellular processes, protein–ligand interaction, enzymatic activity, assisting chaperones, membrane penetration of proteins, translocation of toxins and genetic diseases involving misfolded proteins. The unraveling of the roles of the MG state in the cellular processes will prove to be effective in the design of antidotes as well as diagnostics to counteract effects of various toxins. The understanding of the functional roles of the MG is also vital for the basic understanding of folding pathways and enzymatic activities of the proteins involved.
“To Not be a Traitor of Black English”: Youth Perceptions of Language Rights in an Urban Context:

Background/ContextAlthough progress has been made since members of the Conference on College Composition and Communication passed the Students’ Right to Their Own Language resolution (1974), there ...
Correlation of Ki-67 Proliferative Antigen Expression and Tumor Response to Induction Chemotherapy Containing Cell Cycle-Specific Agents in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Determine if highly proliferative head and neck squamous cell carcinomas, assessed by pretreatment Ki-67 expression, respond more robustly to induction chemotherapy (IC) that is selectively toxic to cycling cells. Retrospective analysis of 59 patients treated with IC and chemoradiation. IC included either nab-paclitaxel, cisplatin, 5-FU and cetuximab (APF-C, n = 27) or docetaxel, cisplatin, 5-FU +/− cetuximab (TPF+/−C, n = 32). Ki-67 expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Tumor response (complete/partial/stable/progressive) at the primary site after two IC cycles was evaluated by visual examination in all patients. In the APF-C sub-group, tumor response (primary site and neck nodes) after two IC cycles was evaluated by computed tomography (CT) and fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET)/CT. Ki-67 expression (median 66%, range: 16–97) did not differ across the tumor response categories assessed by visual examination (p = 0.95), CT (p = 0.30), or FDG-PET/CT (p = 0.65). Median decrease in summed SUVmax of measured lesions was 71.6% (range: 8.3–100%). The Pearson correlation coefficient between Ki-67 expression and the percent decrease in summed SUVmax was 0.48 (p = 0.02). Ki-67 expression was not different between those with or without a relapse (median: 60 and 71%, p = 0.10). In multivariate regression analysis (MVA) controlling for p16 positive oropharyngeal SCC status and smoking status, Ki-67 expression was not significantly associated with tumor response by visual examination (coefficient estimate −0.002, standard error 0.010, p = 0.84), CT (coefficient estimate −0.007, standard error 0.011, p = 0.54), FDG-PET/CT (coefficient estimate 0.006, standard error 0.008, p = 0.51), the percent decrease in summed SUVmax (coefficient estimate 0.389, standard error 0.222, p = 0.09), or relapse events (OR = 1.02(95%CI:0.99–1.05), p = 0.28). No significant relationships were found in MVA between pretreatment Ki-67 expression and tumor response to IC or to relapse.
Moral Competency Inventory Validation: Content, Construct, Convergent and Discriminant Approaches

Purpose: Our research fulfills three purposes: 1) introduce practitioners to the appropriate use of measures of unethical behavior; 2) evaluate the use of integrity related assessments for use in personnel selection; and 3) determine the validity of the MCI instrument using standard validation procedures. Methodology: Content, construct, convergent and discriminant approaches are applied to establish the relative validity of the assessment tool.Findings: The results of the MCI purport to align with one’s moral values and behaviors. We establish face validity of the MCI measure, but fail to establish: 1) an appropriate simple factor structure, 2) convergent validity, 3) discriminant validity, and 4) support for the lack of impact of demographic factors on the purported measure of Moral intelligence. Research limitations: An acceptable but constrained (working students) sample was used in the validation. Practical implications: Researchers and practitioners should be familiar with psychometric principles to ensure the use of valid tools in a predictive and defensible manner. New measures can be developed, but should be validated before used for developmental or personnel decision making purposes. Originality value: 1) The lack of validity associated with the MCI instrument is established; 2) Researchers and practitioners are exposed to considerations in the appropriate use of measures of unethical behavior, and 3) exposed to several previously validated integrity related assessments for use in personnel decision making.
15.1 Large-scale acquisition of large-area sensors using an array of frequency-hopping ZnO thin-film-transistor oscillators

Hybrid systems combine Large-Area Electronics (LAE) and silicon CMOS ICs for sensing and computation, respectively. Such systems are limited in number of sensors by the interfaces required between LAE and CMOS. One solution is active matrices; however, these are best suited to highly-regular sensor arrangements due to many speed/power-limiting data lines, and ultimately provide only a square-root reduction in the number of interfaces. This paper presents a large-area pressure-sensing system that achieves a much greater reduction in the number of interfaces from distributed LAE sensors to CMOS via an array of frequency-hopping, injection-locked, ZnO-TFT digitally-controlled oscillators (DCOs).
Coexistence of superfluid and Mott phases of lattice bosons

Recent experiments on strongly interacting bosons in optical lattices have revealed the coexistence of spatially separated Mott-insulating and number-fluctuating phases. We explore the condensate properties of the number fluctuating phase trapped between the Mott-insulating regions and derive the associated collective-mode structure. We discuss the crossover of the interlayer properties between two- and three-dimensional behavior as a function of the lattice parameters and estimate the critical temperatures for the transition from the normal to superfluid state.
pH sensing threads with CMOS readout for Smart Bandages

We demonstrate a thread-based pH sensor integrated with a custom CMOS readout IC as a smart bandage for chronic wound monitoring. pH sensing threads are fabricated using a low-cost, room-temperature dip-and-dry coating process to coat cotton threads with carbon ink and polyaniline (PANI) nanofibers. Bluetooth wireless connectivity and smart phone readout enable real-time monitoring. Threads exhibit pH sensitivity of 72mV/pH and reach their steady state value within 2 minutes. Together, the sensors and electronics for readout and wireless connectivity show promise toward a smart bandage for chronic wound monitoring applications.
Physiological mechanisms mediating patterns of reproductive suppression and alloparental care in cooperatively breeding carnivores

Abstract Although cooperation represents a long-standing evolutionary puzzle, field studies on social carnivores have contributed greatly to our understanding of the selective forces favoring cooperative breeding. Despite these insights, our grasp of the proximate mechanisms facilitating cooperation in carnivores remains surprisingly limited. Here we provide an overview of our current knowledge of the endocrine mechanisms mediating cooperative breeding in terrestrial species belonging to the mammalian order Carnivora. We focus primarily on aspects of reproductive suppression and alloparental care. We find few studies on the topic, with some of the best studies focusing on the behavioral endocrinology of cooperative breeding in canids (dogs) and herpestids (mongooses). Overall, these studies suggest that breeding females typically have higher circulating levels of estrogen, luteinizing hormone, progesterone, and prolactin than do non-breeding adult females. We also find that among males, testosterone levels are often elevated in breeders compared to non-breeding adult males. The effect of glucocorticoids on reproductive suppression in carnivores appears to be sex-specific: breeding males typically have higher glucocorticoid levels than their non-breeding subordinates, but there is no clear pattern for breeding females. Finally, elevated levels of prolactin and oxytocin are consistently associated with alloparental care in cooperatively breeding carnivores, whereas testosterone and glucocorticoids are often lower in individuals who participate in alloparenting. Taken together, our synthesis elucidates striking gaps in our knowledge of carnivore physiology, especially the endocrine mechanisms promoting alloparental care, and we identify important areas for future research.
Isolation and Identification of Bacteria from Ancient and Modern Ice Cores

Glacial ice traps and preserves soluble chemical species, gases, and particulates including pollen grains, fungal spores and bacteria in chronologically-deposited archives. We have constructed an ice-core sampling system that melts ice only from the interior of cores, thereby avoiding surface contamination, and using this system we have isolated, cultured and characterized bacteria from ice cores that range from 5 to 20,000 years in age and that originate from both polar and non-polar regions. Low-latitude, high-altitude non-polar ice cores generally contain more culturable bacteria than polar ices, consistent with closer proximities to major biological ecosystems. Direct plating of melt-water from a 200-year old sample of ice from the Guliya ice cap on the Tibetan Plateau (China) generated ~180 bacterial colonies per ml [colony forming units/ml; (cfu/ml)], whereas meltwater from late Holocene ice from Taylor Dome in Antarctica contained only 10 cfu/ml, and <10 cfu/ml were present in ice of the same age from the Antarctic Peninsula and from Greenland. Based on their small-subunit ribosomal RNA-encoding DNA (rDNA) sequences many, but not all of the bacteria isolated are spore-forming species that belong to Bacillus and Actinomycete genera. Non-chronological fluctuations are observed in the numbers of bacteria present, consistent with episodic deposition resulting from attachment to larger particulates.
A Tale of Three Taxpayers

How have federal personal income tax obligations evolved over the past 60 years? A common perception is that the federal income tax burden on the poor has increased while the tax burden on the rich has declined. This study focuses on three archetypical households. The first consists of two children and a single mother earning 125 percent of the current poverty line. The second consists of two children and a married couple whose income is close to the current median household income. The third consists of two children and a married couple whose income is just below that of the top 1 percent of current earners. All three households maintain constant inflation-adjusted income over time. The changes in relative and absolute federal tax liabilities measured in 1953, 1973, 1993, and 2013 are informative and somewhat surprising?and cannot be summarized in any simple slogan. In absolute dollars the rich and poor seem to have fared best, while in relative terms the poor have benefitted disproportionately.
Abstract TMP47: Pre-Existing White Matter Disease Burden Impacts Cognitive Outcome After Inpatient Rehabilitation for Ischemic Stroke

Background: White matter hyperintensities (WMH) have been shown to impact functional outcomes after ischemic stroke. However, their role in cognitive recovery after ischemic stroke is unclear. Ther...
Secondary Student Mentorship and Research in Complex Networks: Process and Effects

There is increasing interest in rethinking approaches to K-12 education that better prepare students to face an adult world and work life of data-driven and interdisciplinary science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The science of complex networks, also known as network science, is the application of advanced graph theory to characterize, visualize, and analyze complex connected social, biological, technological, and physical systems. It is an important approach to study many problems in data-driven STEM and provides an intuitive pathway for students of any age to understand complex systems. This paper describes the development of a successful mentorship model that combines deep engagement with team research, enabling high school students and teachers to perform successful research projects in the science of complex networks.
AR-ChUM: Augmented Reality Chart Update Mashup

Many mariners, especially recreational boaters, still utilize paper nautical charts for navigation. Unlike electronic charts, regularly updating these paper charts with new information can be a tedious task. Changes to paper charts are published in a textual format, which mariners must then use to manually locate on their physical chart by using a compass, pencil, and ruler to carefully place the update in the proper position on the chart. This project investigates the potential for using augmented reality (AR) to simplify and expedite the updating process. AR is a technology that superimposes digital information directly on top of a user’s real world view. This project uses off-the-shelf, self-contained AR glasses (Microsoft HoloLens) to allow mariners to look at their paper nautical charts and see all modifications that need to be rectified and their respective locations on the paper chart. Advances in both AR and smart-phone technologies imply that this application could be implemented as a mobile app in the near future, which would make it easily accessible to average mariners.
Cation-controlled catalysis with crown ether-containing transition metal complexes

Transition metal complexes that incorporate crown ethers into the supporting ligands have emerged as a powerful class of catalysts capable of cation-tunable reactivity. Cations held in the secondary coordination sphere of a transition metal catalyst can pre-organize or activate substrates, induce local electric fields, adjust structural conformations, or even modify bonding in the primary coordination sphere of the transition metal. This Feature Article begins with a non-comprehensive review of the structural motifs and catalytic applications of crown ether-containing transition metal catalysts, then proceeds to detail the development of catalysts based on “pincer-crown ether” ligands that bridge the primary and secondary coordination spheres.
NOGAPS/NAVGEM Platform Support

Abstract : The long-term goal of this ONR project is to prepare the technical framework for the associated ONR DRI on Unified physical parameterization for seasonal prediction which aims to develop generalized physical parameterizations that will enable a global prediction system useful for forecasts out to seasonal time scales. Targeted specifically at improving/extending the forecast capability of the Navy Operational Global Atmospheric Prediction System (NOGAPS) and the Navy Global Environmental Model (NAVGEM; a successor to NOGAPS with new dynamical core and advanced physics) from weather prediction to seasonal prediction, potential PIs of the DRI will be able to work collaboratively and efficiently on model physics development using the technical framework developed by this project. The objective of this project is to offer support (e.g., consultation, code updates and version control, data transfer, user feedback collection and implementation, etc.) for users of NOGAPS/NAVGEM who obtain the system through the release of the code as determined by release guidelines. One of the primary objectives of this proposal is to establish a more comprehensive technical support capability for the NOGAPS/NAVGEM users, particularly those who have projects supported by ONR. The distribution of NOGAPS/NAVGEM to the scientific community will be accomplished by Naval Research Laboratory (NRL)-Monterey whose functions include, but are not limited to, making incremental improvements to the website, updating versions of the code as necessary, updating the NOGAPS/NAVGEM documentation, providing user feedback to NOGAPS/NAVGEM developers, and providing atmospheric and surface initial and boundary condition data for forecast model simulations.
Shear adhesive performance of leaf‐cutting ant workers (Atta cephalotes)

Wingless arboreal ants must resist the force of gravity while traversing substrates in their environment. For leaf‐cutting ants like Atta cephalotes, foraging may also include a ca. 30 m vertical descent while carrying a load 1–6 times their body mass. We hypothesized that heavier and larger ants would carry heavier and larger loads and that adhesive performance would positively correlate with load mass. We found no relationship between ant mass, body length, head width, or adhesive performance, and the load size an ant carried. In addition to workers carrying vegetative loads (most often leaves), workers in an active foraging trail also include smaller workers riding on the leaves carried by larger workers, and large major workers, providing protection from aerial and ground attacks (Soldiers), respectively. Despite varying functional roles, all foraging ants require secure attachment to the substrate. We measured shear adhesive performance of each foraging role and found that Soldiers produced the highest shear adhesive forces. However, when controlling for tarsal pad area, we found that ants carrying loads have higher shear adhesive performance per unit area than those riding on leaves, and that Soldiers have the lowest shear adhesive performance per unit area. This suggests that while leaf choice does not appear to be dictated by size, mass, or shear adhesive performance of individual ants, overall, ants who carry leaves adhere more strongly given their pad size than those who do not. Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Stability and structure in alpha- and beta-Keggin Heteropolytungstates, [X(n)(+)W12O40)](8-n)(-), X = p-block cation

beta-[SiW(12)O(40)](4)(-) (C(3)(v) symmetry) is sufficiently higher in energy than its alpha-isomer analogue that effectively complete conversion to alpha-[SiW(12)O(40)](4)(-) (T(d)) is observed. By contrast, beta- and alpha-[AlW(12)O(40)](5)(-) (beta- and alpha-1; C(3)(v) and T(d), respectively) are sufficiently close in energy that both isomers are readily seen in (27)Al NMR spectra of equilibrated (alpha-beta) mixtures. Recently published DFT calculations ascribe the stability of beta-1 to an electronic effect of the large, electron-donating [AlO(4)](5)(-) (T(d)) moiety encapsulated within the polarizable, fixed-diameter beta-W(12)O(36) (C(3)(v)) shell. Hence, no unique structural distortion of beta-1 is needed or invoked to explain its unprecedented stability. The results of these DFT calculations are confirmed by detailed comparison of the X-ray crystal structure of beta-1 (beta-Cs(4.5)K(0.5)[Al(III)W(12)O(40)].7.5H(2)O; orthorhombic, space group Pmc2(1), a = 16.0441(10) A, b = 13.2270(8) A, c = 20.5919(13) A, Z = 4 (T = 100(2) K)) with previously reported structures of alpha-1, alpha- and beta-[SiW(12)O(40)](4)(-), and beta(1)-[SiMoW(11)O(40)](4)(-).
Functional interactions between post-translationally modified amino acids of methyl-coenzyme M reductase in Methanosarcina acetivorans

Abstract Methyl-coenzyme M reductase (MCR) plays an important role in mediating global levels of methane by catalyzing a reversible reaction that leads to the production or consumption of this potent greenhouse gas in methanogenic and methanotrophic archaea. In methanogenic archaea, the alpha subunit of MCR (McrA) typically contains four to six post-translationally modified amino acids near the active site. Recent studies have identified genes that install two of these modifications (thioglycine and 5-(S)-methylarginine), yet little is known about the installation and function of the remaining post-translationally modified residues. Here, we provide in vivo evidence that a dedicated SAM-dependent methyltransferase encoded by a gene we designated mcmA is responsible for formation of S-methylcysteine in Methanosarcina acetivorans McrA. Phenotypic analysis of mutants incapable of cysteine methylation suggests that the S-methylcysteine residue plays an important role in adaptation to a mesophilic lifestyle. To examine the interactions between the S-methylcysteine residue and the previously characterized thioglycine, 5-(S)-methylarginine modifications, we generated M. acetivorans mutants lacking the three known modification genes in all possible combinations. Phenotypic analyses revealed complex, physiologically relevant interactions between the modified residues, which alter the thermal stability of MCR in a combinatorial fashion that is not readily predictable from the phenotypes of single mutants. Surprisingly, high-resolution crystal structures of the various unmodified MCRs were indistinguishable from the fully modified enzyme, suggesting that interactions between the post-translationally modified residues do not exert a major influence on the physical structure of the enzyme, but rather serve to fine-tune the activity and efficiency of MCR.
Influence of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AMF) Inoculation on the Performance of Sakha 107 Rice Cultivar under Different Irrigation Intervals.

the experiment was effectuated at the experimental farm of Rice Research and Training Center (RRTC), Sakha, Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt in 2017 and 2018 rice growing seasons to determine the performance of Sakha 107 rice cultivar as affected by inoculation of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) under different irrigation intervals. The experiment was carried out in a split plot design with three replications. Irrigation treatments (continuous flooding (I1), irrigation every 6 (I2), 9 (I3) and 12 days (I4) considered as the main plots. However, the sub plots were occupied by two levels of inoculation of AMF, control (M1) and inoculation seeds in nursery bed by 1.2 kg ha-1 (M2). Results revealed that growth, grain yield and its attributes of Sakha 107 rice cultivar, as well as N and P uptake by grain were significantly influenced by irrigation treatments in both seasons. I1 treatment gave the highest values, followed by I2 treatment, while I4 treatment recorded the lowest values. The M2 treatment increased the previous parameters as a compared to M1 treatment. The average reduction in grain yield were found to be 3.48, 14.96 and 24.59% with corresponding values of water saved of 6.62, 12.46 and 25.00% when the interval period was prolonged up to 6, 9 and 12-day, respectively. I2 treatment gave the highest values of productivity of irrigation water (PIW) followed by I4 treatment.
Technology-based adaptation of think-pair-share utilizing Google drive

The Think-Pair-Share activity (TPS; Lyman, 1981, 1987) is a learner-centered and highly effective collaborative teaching strategy that is widely used in higher education. The TPS activity promotes student learning through a sequence of three “phases.” First, students individually reflect on subject matter, then pair with a partner in class to discuss the information, and finally share ideas from their discussions with the class as a whole. TPS is believed to not only enhance student learning but it also engages all students in discussions, including those who may be more reserved and less likely to share unprompted in class (Karge, Phillips, Jessee, & McCabe, 2011). Instructors may be able to assess how students are understanding the material by walking around to listen in on various group reflections before then facilitating a larger class discussion. The use of simple online tools, such as Google Drive (i.e., “Google docs”), may provide a platform that facilitates the adaptation of TPS activities. Utilizing Google Docs to facilitate a TPS activity encourages students to take an active role towards investigating a teacher-prompted question in one area, collaborating with peers to add to an electronic document based on the instructor question, and finally projecting their findings on the screen to the larger group. Studies to this point have only evaluated the utility and satisfaction of Google Docs to facilitate small group (i.e., approximately 3 students on average) collaborative weekly reflections and other essay-type writing assignments outside of the classroom (e.g., Denton, 2012; Zhou, Simpson, & Domizi, 2012). However, research has yet to make the pedagogical connection linking Google Docs with TPS nor has the effectiveness for enhancing student learning through in-class collaborative activities been evaluated. Google Drive is a free and easy-to-use technology on which small groups of students can record their findings simultaneously from their laptops or other tablet devices. The compilation of findings recorded on the Google Doc can be viewed on a projector screen while students present their information to the class as a whole. Although the in-class use offers a collaborative activity to promote in-depth learning of new material, one additional benefit of Google Drive is that the information recorded may be continually accessed once the class session is completed.
The Gaussian Transform.

We introduce the Gaussian transform (GT), an optimal transport inspired iterative method for denoising and enhancing latent structures in datasets. Under the hood, GT generates a new distance function (GT distance) on a given dataset by computing the $\ell^2$-Wasserstein distance between certain Gaussian density estimates obtained by localizing the dataset to individual points. Our contribution is twofold: (1) theoretically, we establish firstly that GT is stable under perturbations and secondly that in the continuous case, each point possesses an asymptotically ellipsoidal neighborhood with respect to the GT distance; (2) computationally, we accelerate GT both by identifying a strategy for reducing the number of matrix square root computations inherent to the $\ell^2$-Wasserstein distance between Gaussian measures, and by avoiding redundant computations of GT distances between points via enhanced neighborhood mechanisms. We also observe that GT is both a generalization and a strengthening of the mean shift (MS) method, and it is also a computationally efficient specialization of the recently proposed Wasserstein Transform (WT) method. We perform extensive experimentation comparing their performance in different scenarios.
WHEN THE TEACHER BECOMES THE STUDENT: YOUTH IMPACT ON PARENT TECHNOLOGY USE

We are only beginning to understand the ways in which young people are introducing technologies into the family system and the ways that is impacting family relationships. What seems clear is that the face-to-face relationship does not translate directly to the online context, and online communication is not completely replacing in-person family relationships. Despite the lack of existing research, it is reasonable to expect that family relationships impact how youth and parents use online media. Building on socialization theory, in the current study we considered the ways in which youth technology use impacts parent technology use in parent-child dyads from India and the U.S. (98 dyads; youth: 37% female; mean age=17.3; parents: 54.6% female; mean age=41.5). When considering frequency of six types of technology use in a series of linear regression analyses: 1) general use to look for information, news, and use online tools, 2) audio or video calls, 3) texting, instant messaging, discussion boards, or email, 4) sending or receiving audio or video, and photos, 5) create or maintain blogs, microblogs, or websites, and 6) social networking sites, child technology use accounted for 8.4% to 27.0% of the variance in parent use. Despite the small sample size, it is clear that child technology use is strongly associated with parent use, even when considering diverse ways of using technology. Future research should use longitudinal data to explore how children impact parents’ technology use over time – how that influence changes with age, sociohistorical time and place, and life transitions.
Science and Ethics in the Human-Enhanced Exploration of Mars

This chapter will discuss several possibilities for human enhancement in the exploration of Mars in light of scientific and ethical considerations. The troublesome enhancements are basically of two kinds: implants and genetic interventions. A rather uncontroversial proposal is that we equip space explorers with the right kinds of suits, goggles and other equipment that will allow them to operate safely in harsh space environments. Implants, however, require surgical risks that may be unwarranted. Genetic interventions are themselves of two kinds: somatic genetic changes and germline changes. Somatic genetic changes may be riddled with unknown and potentially devastating side effects to the explorers who undergo them. Germline genetic changes may be passed on to future generations of human beings, a move that would be very difficult to justify. Of course, sending space explorers into harsh environments does require us to provide for their safety. But the most likely exploration of Mars in the next several decades will have as its greatest safety challenge the protection from radiation. No foreseeable enhancement can do that. We will mainly need safe suits and buildings. If extant life were to be found on Mars, then it would be crucial to determine whether it could dangerously infect human beings. In that case, we would need to “enhance” the explorers by giving them immunity. Other enhancements often mentioned would at best make some difficult tasks easier, but generally that would not be enough to overcome the burden of danger they create. This chapter will also examine the scientific plausibility of many of the proposed biotechnological advances. There is a reason to believe that they may be unwarranted extrapolations from present genetic research, for example, which brings their plausibility into question.
Recent release from prison - A novel risk factor for intimate partner homicide.

BACKGROUND The United States has the highest per-capita incarceration rate and the largest prison population in the world. More than two thirds of recently incarcerated individuals will be arrested again within 3 years of release and may commit crimes as serious as homicide soon after discharge. The pattern of homicidal violence currently remains unknown for recently incarcerated homicide suspects (RIHS) and their victims. METHODS A retrospective analysis of the 36 states included in the 2003 to 2017 National Violent Death Reporting System was performed with a focus on RIHS and their victims. Pearson χ2 and Wilcoxon rank sum tests were used for comparison. RESULTS There were 249 RIHS in the database of the 14,561 homicides where suspect recent incarceration status was documented. Compared with not-recently incarcerated suspects, RIHS were more likely to be White (41% vs. 29%, p < 0.001) and male (97% vs. 91%, p < 0.001). Recently incarcerated homicide suspects more often had a known relationship with the victim (75% vs. 51%, p < 0.001), and these homicides more often occurred in the victim's own home (43% vs. 34%, p = 0.006). Intimate partner violence was a factor in 31% of the RIHS cases (vs. 17%, p < 0.001). The homicide weapon was most likely to be a firearm (57.8%, p < 0.001). Only 6.4% of homicides were due to mental health illness. Gang violence, while more common in the RIHS group, was still only a precipitating factor in 12.0% of the homicides (vs. 7.4%, p = 0.006). CONCLUSION Recently incarcerated homicide suspects are more likely to kill a known person in their own home with a firearm, and these homicides are frequently categorized as intimate partner homicides. Gang violence and mental health are not frequent precipitating factors in these deaths. Additional future interventions are urgently needed to eliminate these preventable deaths by alerting previous or current intimate partners of those being discharged from the prison system.
Validity of sound-proof approaches in rapidly-rotating compressible convection: marginal stability versus turbulence

The validity of the anelastic approximation has recently been questioned in the regime of rapidly-rotating compressible convection in low Prandtl number fluids (Calkins et al. 2015). Given the broad usage and the high computational efficiency of sound-proof approaches in this astrophysically relevant regime, this paper clarifies the conditions for a safe application. The potential of the alternative pseudo-incompressible approximation is investigated, which in contrast to the anelastic approximation is shown to never break down for predicting the point of marginal stability. Its accuracy, however, decreases close to the parameters corresponding to the failure of the anelastic approach, which is shown to occur when the sound-crossing time of the domain exceeds a rotation time scale, i.e. for rotational Mach numbers greater than one. Concerning the supercritical case, which is naturally characterised by smaller rotational Mach numbers, we find that the anelastic approximation does not show unphysical behaviour. Growth rates computed with the linearised anelastic equations converge toward the corresponding fully compressible values as the Rayleigh number increases. Likewise, our fully nonlinear turbulent simulations, produced with our fully compressible and anelastic models and carried out in a highly supercritical, rotating, compressible, low Prandtl number regime show good agreement. However, this nonlinear test example is for only a moderately low convective Rossby number of 0.14.
Outcomes for Clinical Trials of Host-Directed Therapies for Tuberculosis

While a major goal of host-directed therapies for tuberculosis is to improve the microbiologic efficacy of treatment, an additional goal is to decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. Despite cure, up to half of successfully treated tuberculosis patients have evidence of impaired pulmonary function, which has been implicated in disability, poor quality of life, and higher risk of mortality. In this section, outcomes of respiratory health for pulmonary tuberculosis will be discussed with the aim of facilitating the development of host-directed therapy trials. While there are a wide variety of conventional and novel lung health metrics available, the most established objective and subjective measures will be discussed. References with listings of alternative options will be included to facilitate selection of clinically relevant outcome measures.
“Jokes Seth Can’t Tell” and the Regressive Visibility of the Diverse Late Night Writers’ Room

After Jon Stewart and David Letterman announced their respective retirements in 2015, the absence of diverse voices in late-night programming re-emerged as an important representational issue. Desp...
DMSA-SPECT: A Novel Approach to Nephron Sparing SBRT for Renal Cell Carcinoma

ABSTRACT Context SBRT treatment planning for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) requires accurate delineation of tumor from normal tissue due to the radiosensitivity of normal renal cortical tissue. Tc-99m DMSA renal imaging is a functional imaging technique that precisely differentiates normal renal cortical tissue from tumor. There are no prior publications utilizing this imaging modality for SBRT treatment planning. Methods A 59-year-old female with stage IV RCC progressed on systemic therapy and was dispositioned to primary cytoreduction with SBRT. She had baseline renal dysfunction and her tumor was 9 cm without clear delineation from normal tissue on conventional imaging. DMSA-SPECT/CT was utilized for treatment planning. Results DMSA-SPECT/CT precisely delineated normal renal cortical tissue from tumor. Three months after treatment, labs were stable and DMSA-SPECT/CT was unchanged. The treated lesion had markedly decreased PET-avidity. Conclusion DMSA-SPECT or SPECT/CT can be incorporated into radiotherapy planning for renal lesions to improve target delineation and better preserve renal function.
Abstract WP186: Pregnancy Associated Hemorrhagic Strokes Differ in Mechanisms and Risk Factors Compared with Hemorrhagic Strokes in Non-pregnant Young Women and Men

Background: Pregnancy-associated hemorrhagic stroke (HS), while rare, is a significant cause of maternal mortality. Prior studies have suggested that the pathophysiology of HS may differ in pregnan...
Local Community Support for Tangible Food Aid During COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic is a long-haul disaster that has brought forth extreme hardship, in particular food insecurity. Local citizens across the United States created online groups to facilitate mutual aid, a form of community-based disaster relief. In this paper, we are interested in how online mutual aid groups addressed food insecurity through facilitating various community-based initiatives. We interviewed mutual aid group organizers in the United States and found that online groups contributed immediate food relief as well as laid the groundwork for long-term food security. These findings have implications for community resilience in the wake of an ongoing disaster.