cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CONTRASTING PATTERNS OF FLORAL AND MOLECULAR VARIATION ACROSS A CLINE IN MIMULUS AURANTIACUS

Abstract Steep clines in ecologically important traits may be caused by divergent natural selection. However, processes that do not necessarily invoke ongoing selection, such as secondary contact or restricted gene flow, can also cause patterns of phenotypic differentiation over short spatial scales. Distinguishing among all possible scenarios is difficult, but an attainable goal is to establish whether scenarios that imply selection need to be invoked. We compared the extent of morphological and genetic differentiation between geographically structured red and yellow floral races of Mimulus aurantiacus (bush monkeyflower; Phrymaceae). Flower color was assessed in a common garden as well as in the field to determine whether variation was genetic and to quantify the extent of geographical differentiation. Population genetic differentiation at marker loci was measured for both chloroplast and nuclear genomes, and the degree of population structure within and among the floral races was evaluated. Flower colo...
Structure–Kinetics Correlations in Isostructural Crystals of α-(ortho-Tolyl)-acetophenones: Pinning Down Electronic Effects Using Laser-Flash Photolysis in the Solid State

Aqueous suspensions of nanocrystals in the 200–500 nm size range of isostructural α-(ortho-tolyl)-acetophenone (1a) and α-(ortho-tolyl)-para-methylacetophenone (1b) displayed good absorption characteristics for flash photolysis experiments in a flow system, with transient spectra and decay kinetics with a quality that is similar to that recorded in solution. In contrast to solution measurements, reactions in the solid state were characterized by a rate limiting hydrogen transfer reaction from the triplet excited state and a very short-lived biradical intermediate, which does not accumulate. Notably, the rate for δ-hydrogen atom transfer of 1a (2.7 × 107 s–1) in the crystalline phase is 18-fold larger than that of 1b (1.5 × 106 s–1). With nearly identical molecular and crystal structures, this decrease in the rate of δ-hydrogen abstraction can be assigned unambiguously to an electronic effect by the para-methyl group in 1b, which increases the contribution of the 3π,π* configuration relative to the reactiv...
The Needs of War and the Right to Fair Process in Seeking a Security Clearance

The Department of Defense (DoD) is responsible for processing security clearance applications for department employees and its private contractors, using a set of written rules and guidelines. The DoD’s Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA) conducts hearings and issues decisions in personal security clearance cases involving military personnel, civilian employees, and private contractors working for DoD components. The primary focus of DOHA proceedings is the need to preserve national security; the level of clearance the applicant seeks is not considered relevant to proceedings. Clearance decisions reflect a finding that it is “clearly consistent” with national security interests to grant or continue an applicant’s security clearance. While it is difficult to predict the outcome of cases with absolute certainty, the consistency of the DOHA process makes reasonably accurate predictions possible.Recently, though, has been a shift in the interpretation of directive guidelines, increasing the probability of opposing results in cases that seem factually similar. One disparity arises from the fact that, generally, an individual’s prior history of compliance with security procedures is not given probative value. There is an “exception” if the applicant has made a significant contribution to national security while working in dangerous, high-risk circumstances. An applicant is more likely to be granted clearance (and not automatically granted clearance) because of the pseudo-exception. Ordinary applicants do not receive this benefit. Administrative judges may still decline to grant clearance to the special applicants if they fail to adequately mitigate the government’s security concerns. This exception marks a disturbing departure from established guidelines and their focus on national security. While this change may not seem to have any immediate significance, alterations in the interpretation of established rules affect other unaltered rules and contravene the intent of the industrial security clearance program.This Comment discusses the history of the industrial security clearance program, its modern procedural rules, its practice and design, and the evolution of the high-risk circumstances exception. The next Section analyzes the policy and political concerns presented by the high-risk circumstances exception. In light of these concerns, this Comment concludes that DOHA should discontinue use of the high-risk circumstances exception as it currently operates. Modifications of the system should be left to those charged with - and accountable for - making revisions to the industrial security clearance program rules and guidelines.
Atomic Emission and Absorption Spectrometry of the Rare Earth Elements

The striking similarity in the chemical properties of the rare earth group of elements precludes the use of classical techniques for the quantitative analysis of most rare earth mixtures. Consequently, the analyst has turned to measurements of physical properties of these elements in order to obtain analytical data on mixtures of the rare earths. By far the most useful analytical information has been obtained from intensity measurements on the various characteristic spectra of these elements. Thus, optical emission spectra, absorption spectra in the optical region and fluorescent spectra in the optical and x-ray regions have been extensively employed [1].
Zinc toxicosis in a Celebes ape (Macaca nigra) following ingestion of pennies

An adult Celebes ape (Macaca nigra) was presented for a routine yearly evaluation. Abdominal radiographs revealed four radiodense metallic foreign objects resembling coins within the gastrointestinal tract. Hematologic abnormalities included a mild nonregenerative anemia and a mild leukocytosis, and the biochemical profile reflected renal dysfunction. Serum zinc levels were elevated. The animal was denied food for 24 hr in preparation for the endoscopic removal of the foreign objects. During this period, two partially eroded pennies were passed in the feces. Endoscopy was temporarily postponed, and the animal was offered food. Two days later a third penny was passed. When the fourth coin did not pass within the next 2 days, the animal was once again denied food, and the fourth coin was passed within 24 hr. Because of the temporal association between the fasting cycles and the passage of the coins, a causal relationship is suggested. Following the passage of all coins, serum zinc levels decreased, and hematologic and serum biochemical abnormalities improved. Six months later, all abnormalities had resolved.
Paths to relapse: possible transactional processes connecting patient illness onset, expressed emotion, and psychotic relapse.

A vulnerability/stress framework for schizophrenia is one means by which the strong evidence for genetic and other biological factors in schizophrenia can be combined in a useful way with persistent evidence that stressful environments may play a role in precipitating psychotic episodes (Gottesman & Shields, 1972; Zubin & Spring, 1977; Nuechterlein & Dawson, 1984; Nuechterlein, 1987; Ciompi, 1989). Within a large longitudinal study of the early course of schizophrenia, we have been attempting to examine several possible ways in which both psychobiological vulnerability factors in the patient (Dawson & Nuechterlein, 1987; Nuechterlein et al, 1991) and external environmental stressors (Ventura et al, 1989) individually and jointly influence the course of schizophrenia. At the Second International Symposium on Schizophrenia in Bern, we focused on two promising mediating factors in schizophrenia — those involving persistent information-processing abnormalities and stress-triggered autonomic arousal (Nuechterlein et al, 1989). We focus here on recent analyses that relate to current controversies in the literature on interpersonal attitudes that are typically called expressed emotion (EE) — socio-environmental attributes that have been statistically associated with psychotic relapse in schizophrenia.
Alterations in the kinetics of methotrexate transport during growth of L1210 murine leukemia cells in culture.

Measurements of methotrexate transport during different phases of growth of L1210 murine leukemia cells in culture revealed no significant change in the Km for methotrexate influx (3.9-4.7 µM) during growth. However, the Vmax for influx into exponentially growing (midlog) L1210 cells was threefold greater (9.4 nmol/min/g dry wt) than the Vmax for influx into stationary cells (3.1 nmol/min/g dry wt), while the rate of methotrexate efflux from stationary phase cells (K, 0.06 min-1) was twice that measured for midlog cells (K, 0.03 min-1). These reciprocal changes in the kinetic parameters for influx and efflux accounted for a five- to sixfold greater steady-state level for exchangeable methotrexate in midlog cells than in stationary phase cells. These data may help to explain the increased sensitivity of exponentially growing versus stationary phase cells to methotrexate.
A test-bed validation of electromagnetic surface wave propagation along a dielectric-coated metal pipe

This paper provides a summary of the results of an attempt at experimental verification of the propagation of electromagnetic surface waves at microwaves frequencies, in and along the uniform dielectric coating of a circular cylindrical metal pipe, based on the previously stablished theoretical investigation. These experimental results are of value for the diagnostic of anomalies on the surface of tar-coated pipes used in protecting the underground power transmission cables (feeder pipes). A test-bed was designed and implemented using an aluminum tubes (10” diameter) with an acrylic tube coating (0.25” thickness). Two identical wave launcher/receiver arrays, each of 32 elements around the tube for relatively uniform radiation/reception, were designed and fabricated at the frequency of interest (∼6 GHz). This arrangement was put in a specially designed small anechoic chamber and attached to a network analyzer. A variety of tests were performed to stablish the launch efficiency, prove surface wave propagation along, and reflection from different types of anomalies on the coating. In the paper, a number of test results and supporting graphs will be provided and future work for improving the performance of the launch array and the testbed arrangement for better results will be outlined.
Field Oriented Control of tubular PM Linear Motor using linear Hall Effect sensors

A method to determine the shaft position of a tubular linear permanent magnet motor is presented. Instead of using an incremental optical or magnetic encoder, linear Hall Effect sensors could be used to determine the exact shaft position. This will reduce the cost, size and remove the trailing sensor cable. A Phased Locked Loop was proposed to reduce the noise in the signals. Experimental results proved the effectiveness of the presented method in Field Oriented Control.
Evaluating a Ground-Beef Patty Cooking Process Using the General Method of Process Calculation.

The General Method of process evaluation is used to calculate F160.0°F values for two ground-beef patty frying tests. The F160.0°F value is then used to compare the adequacy of the two frying processes to control pathogenic microorganisms. The several elements of process design and evaluation are described: (1) designing the microbial control process, (2) performing the General Method of process calculation including construction of the relative kill time graph, (3) selecting the z value, (4) evaluating relative kill time, lethal rates, and FT values, and (5) calculating F160.0°F values for two ground-beef patty frying tests as examples.
Understanding the Structural Evolution of Single Conjugated Polymer Chain Conformers.

Single molecule photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy of conjugated polymers has shed new light on the complex structure–function relationships of these materials. Although extensive work has been carried out using polarization and excitation intensity modulated experiments to elucidate conformation-dependent photophysics, surprisingly little attention has been given to information contained in the PL spectral line shapes. We investigate single molecule PL spectra of the prototypical conjugated polymer poly[2-methoxy-5-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene] (MEH-PPV) which exists in at least two emissive conformers and can only be observed at dilute levels. Using a model based on the well-known “Missing Mode Effect” (MIME), we show that vibronic progression intervals for MEH-PPV conformers can be explained by relative contributions from particular skeletal vibrational modes. Here, observed progression intervals do not match any ground state Raman active vibrational frequency and instead represent a coalescence of multiple modes in the frequency domain. For example, the higher energy emitting “blue” MEH-PPV form exhibits PL maxima at ~18,200 cm−1 with characteristic MIME progression intervals of ~1200–1350 cm−1, whereas the lower energy emitting “red” form peaks at ~17,100 cm−1 with intervals in the range of ~1350–1450 cm−1. The main differences in blue and red MEH-PPV chromophores lie in the intra-chain order, or, planarity of monomers within a chromophore segment. We demonstrate that the Raman-active out-of-plane C–H wag of the MEH-PPV vinylene group (~966 cm−1) has the greatest influence in determining the observed vibronic progression MIME interval. Namely, larger displacements (intensities)—indicating lower intra-chain order—lower the effective MIME interval. This simple model provides useful insights into the conformational characteristics of the heterogeneous chromophore landscape without requiring costly and time-consuming low temperature or single molecule Raman capabilities.
Ionophore strategy affects growth performance and carcass characteristics in feedlot steers

One hundred ninety-two steers (BW = 354 ± 23.5 kg) were used in a randomized block design to evaluate the effects of ionophore and ractopamine hydrochloride (RH) supplementation strategies on performance and carcass characteristics. Twelve pens of 4 steers were assigned to each of the following treatments: unsupplemented control (CON), laidlomycin propionate (12.1 mg/kg DM) with or without RH (LPRH and LP, respectively), and monensin sodium (36.4 mg/kg DM) with RH (MSRH). Steers were fed for 151 d, of which respective treatments received RH (Actogain; Zoetis, Florham Park, NJ) at a rate of 300 mg/(animal · d) for the final 32 d. Laidlomycin was removed from the LPRH treatment during this period, as no combination feeding has been approved. Upon harvest, carcass data were collected by trained personnel, and subsequent analysis of the LM was conducted to estimate tenderness using Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF). Prior to RH supplementation, both LP and LPRH had greater ADG ( ≤ 0.02) and G:F ( < 0.01) than CON, whereas MSRH was intermediate. During the final 32 d, MSRH improved G:F ( ≤ 0.02) compared to all other treatments and tended to increase ADG over unsupplemented controls ( = 0.05). Cattle receiving LP without RH had significantly greater BW at d 151 than CON ( = 0.02), whereas both RH treatments tended to improve final BW ( ≤ 0.09). Ionophores improved ADG ( ≤ 0.03) and G:F ( < 0.01) for the entire feeding period, and although LP-supplemented cattle had greater DMI for the final 32 d than both RH treatments ( ≤ 0.01), intakes for the 151-d trial were similar among treatments. Carcass weights were greater ( = 0.04) in cattle fed LP with no RH than CON, where cattle yielded an average of 12 kg more HCW. Ractopamine increased LM area in MSRH-supplemented cattle ( = 0.03) and tended to increase LM area for steers receiving LPRH ( = 0.07). Longissimus steaks of MSRH-supplemented cattle had greater WBSF values than CON ( = 0.04) after 7 d of postmortem aging and greater WBSF values than LPRH steaks after 28 d ( = 0.03). All other carcass and WBSF measurements were similar among treatments. The results of this study indicate that LP supplementation without RH may yield a performance similar to and carcass responses associated with the administration of a β-agonist. These results also suggest that performance and carcass characteristics for cattle fed LP are similar to those of cattle fed monensin throughout the feeding period.
Ground-based performance evaluation of a wearable vision+inertial navigation system for iss net habitable volume estimation

Astronauts living and working onboard the International Space Station (ISS) provide a unique opportunity to capture and quantify the architectural layout and 3-D space utilization in a microgravity environment. As NASA looks to design and build future space exploration vehicles, information gathered from the ISS human-system operational environment will provide critical data on minimum net habitable volume (NHV). Fourteen datasets were collected from walking specified routes and performing representative “tasking” in the ISS mockup facility at Johnson Space Center using a hand-portable custom multi-sensor assembly developed by Draper for the U.S. Army. This totaled a cumulative traverse distance of approximately 1,943 meters (1.2 miles) over more than 60 minutes of recording. The average route was approximately 139 m (455 ft.), and 4.3 minutes in duration. Distance estimation, final position estimation error, and tasking location were estimated using Draper's “Mischief” vision+inertial navigation algorithm. The results demonstrated final position errors of less than 1% of the estimated total route distance. Additionally, initial testing of the position accuracy of the system demonstrated the ability to estimate a position with regard to a specific rack (1.02 m; 40 in. wide) in the ISS Destiny module mockup. Overall, the results are encouraging for further development of a wearable kinematic system for use onboard the ISS to quantify astronaut position and orientation to validate NHV models for the design of future habitats.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Rectal and Urethral Sexually Transmitted Infections From Self-Collected Samples Among Young Men Who Have Sex With Men Participating in the Keep It Up! 2.0 Randomized Controlled Trial.

BackgroundDespite recommendations that sexually active men who have sex with men be regularly tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and that testing reflect anatomical sites of potential exposure, regular testing is not widely performed, especially for rectal STIs. As such, little is kno
New sterically hindered polyvinylamine membranes for CO2 separation and capture

Abstract Facilitated transport membranes have been intensively studied for CO2 separation and capture, in which amine carriers are the key for membrane separation performance. It has been reported that sterically hindered amines possess superior CO2 loading capacity over unhindered amines. In this work, we successfully introduced the effect of the steric hindrance to the nitrogen site of amine into polyvinylamine membranes. Sterically hindered poly(N-vinylamine)s, namely poly(N-methyl-N-vinylamine), poly(N-isopropyl-N-vinylamine), and poly(N-tertiary-butyl-N-vinylamine), were synthesized from modifying unhindered poly(N-vinylamine). The effect of steric hindrance on membrane performance was investigated under the typical flue gas CO2 capture conditions, i.e., 57 °C and ~ 1 atm, showing that poly(N-methyl-N-vinylamine) was the one with the optimal steric hindrance degree for the best membrane performance. Compared with unmodified polyvinylamine, poly(N-methyl-N-vinylamine) demonstrated 24% improvement on CO2 permeability and 14% increase in CO2/N2 selectivity at 57 °C. The membrane performance enhancement by amine steric hindrance was found to be greatly influenced by temperature. At 102 °C, poly(N-methyl-N-vinylamine) demonstrated a CO2 permeability of 6804 Barrers, a CO2/N2 selectivity of 350, and a CO2/H2 selectivity of 162, which were approximately 4 times those of unmodified polyvinylamine. This work has extended the study on sterically hindered polyamines for CO2 facilitated transport and developed a next-generation fixed-site carrier membrane.
Benefit of social media on patient engagement and satisfaction: Results of a 9-month, qualitative pilot study using Facebook

Abstract Background Despite the potential benefits of social media, health care providers are often hesitant to engage patients through these sites. Our aim was to explore how implementation of social media may affect patient engagement and satisfaction. Methods In September 2016 a Facebook support group was created for liver transplant patients to use as a virtual community forum. Data including user demographics and group activity were reviewed. A survey was conducted evaluating users' perceptions regarding participation in the group. Results Over 9 months, 350 unique users (50% liver transplant patients, 36% caregivers/friends, 14% health care providers) contributed 339 posts, 2,338 comments, and 6,274 reactions to the group; 98% of posts were reacted to or commented on by other group members. Patients were the most active users compared with health care providers and caregivers. A total of 95% of survey respondents reported that joining the group had a positive impact on their care; and 97% reported that their main motivation for joining was to provide or receive support from other patients. Conclusion This pilot study indicates that the integration of social media into clinical practice can empower surgeons to synthesize effectively a patient support community that augments patient engagement and satisfaction.
Rapid evolution of a bacterial iron acquisition system

Under iron limitation, bacteria scavenge ferric (Fe3+ ) iron bound to siderophores or other chelates from the environment to fulfill their nutritional requirement. In gram-negative bacteria, the siderophore uptake system prototype consists of an outer membrane transporter, a periplasmic binding protein and a cytoplasmic membrane transporter, each specific for a single ferric siderophore or siderophore family. Here, we show that spontaneous single gain-of-function missense mutations in outer membrane transporter genes of Bradyrhizobium japonicum were sufficient to confer on cells the ability to use synthetic or natural iron siderophores, suggesting that selectivity is limited primarily to the outer membrane and can be readily modified. Moreover, growth on natural or synthetic chelators required the cytoplasmic membrane ferrous (Fe2+ ) iron transporter FeoB, suggesting that iron is both dissociated from the chelate and reduced to the ferrous form within the periplasm prior to cytoplasmic entry. The data suggest rapid adaptation to environmental iron by facile mutation of selective outer membrane transporter genes and by non-selective uptake components that do not require mutation to accommodate new iron sources.
Anthropology, theology, critique:

This article reflects on one potential relationship the anthropological study of religion might enjoy with a critical orientation to religion. To do so, I highlight a burgeoning (but tenuous) dialo...
The extractive industries in Central America

Abstract The large literature on mineral and energy extraction and society has skipped over Central America. While each of the countries within the region is relatively small, as a whole the region holds large potential resource wealth. Each country has taken a unique view as to what is to be done with this wealth. Some, like Nicaragua and Panama, have embraced it. Others, like Costa Rica and El Salvador, view resource extraction as antithetical to the preservation of biodiversity. In this paper we provide a brief summary of the state of affairs and introduce the four papers in this Special Issue on extractive industries in Central America.
The Fanconi anemia proteins FANCA and FANCG stabilize each other and promote the nuclear accumulation of the Fanconi anemia complex

Fanconi anemia (FA) is an autosomal recessive cancer susceptibility syndrome with 8 complementation groups. Four of the FA genes have been cloned, and at least 3 of the encoded proteins, FANCA, FANCC, and FANCG/XRCC9, interact in a multisubunit protein complex. The FANCG protein binds directly to the amino terminal nuclear localization sequence (NLS) of FANCA, suggesting that FANCG plays a role in regulating FANCA nuclear accumulation. In the current study the functional consequences of FANCG/FANCA binding were examined. Correction of an FA-G cell line with the FANCG complementary DNA (cDNA) resulted in FANCA/FANCG binding, prolongation of the cellular half-life of FANCA, and an increase in the nuclear accumulation of the FA protein complex. Similar results were obtained upon correction of an FA-A cell line, with a reciprocal increase in the half-life of FANCG. Patient-derived mutant forms of FANCA, containing an intact NLS sequence but point mutations in the carboxy-terminal leucine zipper region, bound FANCG in the cytoplasm. The mutant forms failed to translocate to the nucleus of transduced cells, thereby suggesting a model of coordinated binding and nuclear translocation. These results demonstrate that the FANCA/FANCG interaction is required to maintain the cellular levels of both proteins. Moreover, at least one function of FANCG and FANCA is to regulate the nuclear accumulation of the FA protein complex. Failure to accumulate the nuclear FA protein complex results in the characteristic spectrum of clinical and cellular abnormalities observed in FA.
Measurement of Physical Attractiveness

A direct relationship may not exist between physical attractiveness and most personal attributes. But people, either knowingly or unknowingly, make strong assumptions about these characteristics, based only on the informational cue provided by an individual’s physical attractiveness. The end result of these assumptions is an advantage for those people who possess physical attractiveness and a disadvantage for those who do not. The importance of understanding the influence of physical attractiveness appears relevant for all interpersonal proceedings. However, physical attractiveness is essentially not a quantitative trait. Therefore, an important research issue is the manner in which researchers identify and manipulate the physical attractiveness variable in order to study its effects.
P155 Defining the hierarchies of serogenic HLA allotypes discovers key hla types that warrant matching for kidney transplantation

Aim To study the ability of 121 core HLA allotypes in provoking antibody (Ab) production upon distinct exposures to identify the vigorous serogenic HLA allotypes that deserve matching in kidney transplantation. Methods HLA-Abs were analyzed in 277 patients (44% females) waiting for 2nd-kidney transplantation (Ktx), who had no HLA-Ab at pre-1st Ktx. The frequency and strength (mean of composite MFIs) of 1st Ktx-induced HLA-Abs were compared with those from patients who had >1 Ktxs (n = 148), and patients waiting for the 1st-Ktx (1477 females - pregnancy-induced Abs and 2274 males - naturally occurring Abs). Single antigen beads were used to assay HLA-Abs (One Lambda). Results The most prominent Abs (most frequent and strongest) produced by 1st-Ktx are DQ-specific (Fig. 1). The hierarchy of 1st-Ktx-induced Abs based on prominence is DQ3 > B76 > DQ4 > DQ6 > DQ2 > B45 > B57 > DR9 > A1 > DQ5 > DR7 > B58 > A24 > DR53 > B49 > B82 > A11 > B44 > A69 > A2 > A23 > A68 > A25 > A32 > B7C > A10C > B5C > DR52C > DR51C > Cw/DP. No gender-specific deviation was noted implying that prior pregnancies do not aggravate HLA-Ab production post-Ktx. The constellation of HLA-Ab in patients who had >1 Ktx is comparable to those had a single Ktx (Fig. 2), indicating that multiple Ktx do not exacerbate the serogenicity of HLA types. The most abundant pregnancy-induced Abs are HLA-B and A2 CREG-specific (Fig. 3). Over 60% of males waiting for 1st-Ktx have no HLA-Ab. The following Abs are detected at a frequency of 2–5% in these unsensitized males, and hierarchy built on prominence is B76 > B45 > Cw15 > B82 > Cw1 > B44 > Cw12 > DQ7 > A80 > B57 > B8 > B81 > A25 > Cw17 > B7 > A66 > A31 > B37 > A26(Fig. 4). Most of these Abs were Conclusions HLA-DQ, DR53 CREG, and A2 CREG antigens are most aggressive Ab inducers following Ktx and thus to be considered for matching. Priority for HLA-B and A2 matching will benefit females as they are strong serogenic during pregnancy. HLA-Abs detected in unsensitized males require additional scrutiny. Download : Download high-res image (297KB) Download : Download full-size image
Mixed Factor Structured Tensor Decomposition via Solving Quadratic Equations

This paper considers the problem of decomposition of an even order tensor of order $2d+2q$, which is unconstrained on 2d dimensions, and constrained on 2q dimensions, so that the factor matrices corresponding to the latter 2q dimensions can only be row-wise subsets of Vandermonde matrices. We propose a new Canonical Polyadic (CP) decomposition algorithm, which is able to recover CP decomposition of tensors of rank $\mathrm {O}(M^{2q}N^{d})$, where M is the dimension of the constrained factors and N corresponds to the unconstrained factors, through recasting the problem as solving a system of quadratic equations. The quadratic equations can be solved using well-known heuristic methods such as Jacobi iterations.1.1This work was supported in parts by the Office of Naval Research grant (ONR N00014-18-1-2038), and the University of California, San Diego.
Neutronic and mechanical evaluation of rare earth doped and undoped nitride-based coatings for accident tolerant fuels

Abstract As a part of the effort to develop accident-tolerant fuel (ATF) that would delay potential deleterious consequences of loss-of-coolant-accidents (LOCA), TiN and TiAlN coating application on nuclear fuel claddings were shown as a promising path to enhance corrosion resistance of nuclear fuel cladding. Recently, ytterbium doping was shown to contribute to improving TiAlN coating corrosion performance. However, overall cladding coating performance evaluation requires investigation of neutronic penalties and mechanical properties in addition to corrosion resistance. The current study is composed of two parts. First, the neutronic impact of adding monolithic TiN, monolithic TiAlN and 8-layer TiAlN/TiN coatings (with and without Yb dopants) to the exterior of conventional zirconium-alloy cladding was investigated. Second, an experimental investigation was performed through the deposition of select coating design architecture using cathodic arc physical vapor deposition process onto ZIRLO® 1 sheets followed by mechanical testing to examine the adhesion and hardness of the coatings. Characterizations were performed using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). It is concluded that to minimize the neutronic penalties, a limitation on the concentration of Yb-dopant is necessary. Mechanical testing showed that hardness decreased with increasing Yb content. The adhesion of the TiAlN coatings was not affected by doping but was affected by the cathode composition.
Small Local Government Revenue Forecasting

Small local governments can use forecasts to strategically plan for the future. One concern, however, is their proclivity to use judgmental rather than extrapolation or econometric forecasts. As discussed in this chapter, the literature attributes the use of judgmental forecasts in small local governments to multiple factors. Limited resources may constrain the ability of small local governments to hire dedicated forecasters or even acquire forecasting software. Elected officials may also cite political concerns as a reason to use judgmental rather than a more rigorous forecasting method. Given these characteristics, small local governments may face higher forecast error than larger local governments, and may be less likely to use long-term forecasts for strategic planning. Future research needs to empirically examine forecast error by the size of government over time. It also needs to triangulate findings with surveys and interviews of public administrators and elected officials involved in the budget process. This can provide insight into the institutional and behavioral reasons why small local governments select particular forecasting methods and practices.
Fragen und Aufgaben

Nachstehende Daten wurden auf dem Silverstone Circuit ermittelt. Mit welcher Geschwindigkeit durchfahrt ein Golf VII GTI die Kurve „Copse“? (Abb. 11.1)
1580-P: Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Trajectories of Youth with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) over 10 Years Postdiagnosis from Three Continents

Distinct HbA1c trajectories have previously been identified in youth with established T1D. We used data from 3 international registries to evaluate whether distinct HbA1c trajectories occur from T1D onset. Participants were 8.0%, and ∼11% had values that began in or near target but then increased. Only ∼5% of youth were suboptimal from diagnosis with an increasing HbA1c. This group differed from others with higher rates of minority status and older age at diagnosis across all 3 registries (p≤0.001). We observed similar post-diagnostic HbA1c patterns across 3 international registries. Identifying youth at greatest risk for deterioration in HbA1c over time may allow clinicians to intervene early to avert increasing HbA1c. Disclosure J. Sherr: Advisory Panel; Self; Bigfoot Biomedical, Cecelia Health. Consultant; Self; Eli Lilly and Company, Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Medtronic, Sanofi, T1D Exchange. A. Schwandt: None. H. Phelan: None. M.A. Clements: Consultant; Self; Glooko, Inc. Other Relationship; Self; Glooko, Inc. R.W. Holl: None. P.Z. Benitez-Aguirre: None. K. Miller: None. J. Woelfle: Advisory Panel; Self; Novo Nordisk A/S. T. Dover: None. D.M. Maahs: Advisory Panel; Self; Eli Lilly and Company, Insulet Corporation, Medtronic, Novo Nordisk A/S. Consultant; Self; Abbott, Sanofi. Research Support; Self; Bigfoot Biomedical, Dexcom, Inc., Roche Diabetes Care, Tandem Diabetes Care. E. Frohlich-Reiterer: None. M.E. Craig: None. Funding German Centre for Diabetes Research (FKZ82DZD01402); German Diabetes Association; European Foundation for the Study of Diabetes; INNODIA; The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust
Creative Engagement: A Handbook of Activities for People with Dementia: by Rachael Wonderlin and Geri M. Lotze, Baltimore, MD, Johns Hopkins University Press, 2020, 232 pp., $44.95/$19.95/$19.95, (hardcover/paperback/ebook), ISBN 9781421437286

Rachael Wonderlin, dementia activity expert, and Geri M. Lotze, PhD, developmental psychology professor, have created an activity book to help caregivers improve the quality of life of people who h...
Targeting EGFR in glioblastoma with a novel brain-penetrant small molecule EGFR-TKI

Summary Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is mutated or amplified in a majority of glioblastoma (GBM), and its mutation and focal amplification correlate with a more aggressive disease course. However, EGFR-directed tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) tested to date have yielded minimal clinical benefit. Here, we report a novel covalent EGFR-TKI, CM93, as a potential specific drug to target adult GBMs with aberrant EGFR. CM93 has extraordinary brain-selective distribution, with a brain-to-plasma ratio greater than 20 (>2,000% brain penetration). While all currently approved EGFR-TKIs are subject to extensive efflux transporter activity, CM93 is not a substrate of efflux transporters (P-gp and BCRP). Pre-clinical efficacy studies showed that CM93 is more effective than other EGFR-TKIs in blocking the proliferation of GBM tumor cells from both patient-derived and cultured human GBM cell lines with EGFR amplification and/or EGFRvIII mutation. In addition, CM93 administered as a single agent was able to attenuate the growth of orthotopic U251-EGFRvIII xenografts and extend the survival of tumor-bearing mice in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, CM93 inhibited EGFR phosphorylation in GBM tumors derived from a novel genetically-engineered mouse (GEM) model of GBM with EGFRvIII expression both in vitro and in vivo. CM93 also extended the survival of mice bearing orthotopic allografts of GBM. Notably, mice maintained stable body weight during treatments with increasing doses of CM93 up to 75 mg/kg per day. Together, these data suggest that CM93 is a potential EGFR-TKI well suited for the treatment of adult GBM with mutant EGFR.
Development of claims‐based measures of unplanned acute care with superior power for assessing the effectiveness of interventions following acute care

OBJECTIVE To develop outcome measures that are more sensitive than current measures for evaluating primary or transitional care after hospitalizations, emergency department (ED) visits, or observation stays. DATA SOURCES Medicare claims data from January 1, 2015, to October 31, 2017, for 1 261 707 Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries served by (a) primary care practices participating in Track 1 of the Comprehensive Primary Care Plus (CPC+) initiative, and (b) their matched comparison practices. STUDY DESIGN Given the poor statistical power in many studies to detect effects on readmissions, we developed two novel claims-based measures of unplanned acute care (UAC) following an index acute care event. The first measure assesses the proportion of hospitalizations followed by an unplanned readmission, ED visit, or observation stay within 30 days of discharge; the second assesses the proportion of ED visits and observation stays followed by a hospitalization, ED visit, or observation stay within 30 days. We calculate minimum detectable effects (MDEs) for both measures and for a conventional measure of 30-day unplanned readmissions, using CPC+ data. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Repeat UAC events are common among Medicare beneficiaries served by the CPC+ practices. In 2017, 22% of discharges and 21% of ED visits and observation stays had a UAC event within 30 days. Readmissions were the most common UAC event following discharge, whereas ED visits were most common following index ED visits or observation stays. MDEs are 25%-40% lower for the new measures than for the standard 30-day readmissions measure, indicating better statistical power to detect impacts of primary or transitional care interventions. CONCLUSIONS This study introduces two new claims-based measures to assess quality of care during a patient's vulnerable period following acute care. The new measures complement existing measures, covering a broader range of UAC events than the standard 30-day readmissions measure, and yielding greater statistical power.
On the Front Lines of the Fight Against the COVID-19 Pandemic: Meaning-Making and Shared Trauma

The COVID-19 pandemic has become known as the greatest crisis of our lifetime, bringing about psychological, physical, and social distress to us individually, collectively, nationally, and globally. Social workers are skilled in supporting complex trauma, pain, and loss, yet doing so while simultaneously suffering from the same distress is not common practice. Social workers in health care have been uniquely and gravely impacted by this pandemic, often on the front lines, confronted face-to-face with the trauma of COVID-19, all the while supporting patients, colleagues, healthcare staff, families, and friends in parallel through their own suffering. The reflections that follow are a culmination of living through the COVID-19 pandemic as a social work leader in a New York City (NYC) hospital, with NYC being the first national epicenter of this pandemic. The existential distress of this shared trauma drives us to search for sources of meaning and hope through the pain and suffering.
Modifier Genes as a Cause of Wilson–Konovalov Disease Clinical Polymorphism

For more than 100 years of existence of Wilson–Konovalov disease as an independent nosological form, the etiology and pathogenesis of this disease have been studied from different points of view—both clinical and genetic. However, to this day, new information is emerging not only about mutations in the ATP7B gene itself but also about modifying factors affecting the clinical picture of the disease. From a genetic point of view, the influence of modifier genes is undeniable, because owing to their action (protective or compensatory), some forms of Wilson–Konovalov disease can be explained and it is possible to further use this knowledge in the framework of personalized patient treatment. In this review, the authors consider the influence of various modifiers (intra- and extra-gene) on the course and manifestation of the clinical forms of Wilson–Konovalov disease. The authors show the possible mechanisms for the occurrence of milder or more severe forms of Wilson–Konovalov disease with the participation of certain genes.
Global Epigenetic Analysis Reveals H3K27 Methylation as a Mediator of Double Strand Break Repair

Abstract The majority of cancer patients is treated with ionizing radiation (IR), a relatively safe and effective treatment considered to target tumors by inducing DNA double strand breaks (DSBs). Despite clinical interest in increasing the efficacy of IR by preventing successful DSB repair, few effective radio-adjuvant therapies exist. Extensive literature suggests that chromatin modifiers play a role in the DSB repair and thus may represent a novel class of radiosensitizers. Indeed, chromatin has both local and global impacts on DSB formation, recognition of breaks, checkpoint signaling, recruitment of repair factors, and timely DSB resolution, suggesting that epigenetic deregulation in cancer may impact the efficacy of radiotherapy. Here, using tandem mass spectrometry proteomics to analyze global patterns of histone modification in MCF7 breast cancer cells following IR exposure, we find significant and long-lasting changes to the epigenome. Our results confirm that H3K27 trimethylation (H3K27me3), best known for mediating gene repression and regulating cell fate, increases after IR. H3K27me3 changes rapidly, accumulating at sites of DNA damage. Inhibitors of the Polycomb related complex subunit and H3K27 methyltransferase EZH2 confirm that H3K27me3 is necessary for DNA damage recognition and cell survival after IR. These studies provide an argument for evaluating EZH2 as a radiosensitization target and H3K27me3 as a marker for radiation response in cancer. Proteomic data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD019388.
Positioning in Marine Mapping and Charting

The workshop on “Positioning in Marine Mapping and Charting” (INSMAP 86 Workshop #5) was attended by 32 participants from several defense, governmental, and academic institutions. For mapping and charting at different scales, several specific topics were discussed. The different scales were defined as: (1) local - point sampling such as coring, dredging, photography, etc; (2) area - local studies restricted to areas smaller than several hundred to a few thousand square nautical miles; (3) regional - areas of substantial size such as the Exclusive Economic Zone off the west coast of the United States (approximately 250,000 square nautical miles) or the Gulf of Mexico; (4) global - areas equivalent to ocean basins or mapping programs associated with global tectonic problems. Topics for discussion at the various scales included: (1) what are the greatest demands (e.g., accuracy, range, lifespan) and limitations (e.g., cost, political boundaries) for the positioning system; (2) what are the unique demands asked of a positional system such as positioning of secondary systems (e.g., streamers, camera sleds, side-scan sonar fish, etc; (3) what are the real world factors limiting successful positioning; (4) what can be done to overcome particular factors; and (5) what recommendations can be made to INSMAP 86 regarding research and developmental activities which will meet future mapping and charting positional requirements.
The Continuing Relevance of Personality Theory

In academic circles, the past 20 years have shown a decline in the influence of personality theorizing. For the first part of that period, the person-situation debate fulminated, with the social psychologists and behaviorists joining with some in the personality field to argue that situation rather than person variables account for behavior. Although there were counterarguments raised, some psychologists came to wonder whether personality exists at all, and even those who did not go this far were likely to conclude that the personality area is a mess. Finally, cooler heads prevailed, and an interactional accord was reached in which behavior was regarded as a joint function of situational and person variables, with the emphasis of empirical study being on the interaction of the two.
Coevolution: Host–Parasite

Hosts and their parasites have an intimate and antagonistic relationship; therefore, they are expected to play important roles in influencing each other's evolution. When a host evolves a defence against a parasite, then the parasite may evolve counter-adaptations to its host's defence. Host–parasite coevolution may have several possible outcomes, and, contrary to popular belief, does not necessarily lead to mutualism. Keywords: infectious diseases; myxomatosis; virulence; immunology; HIV
Understanding Ecological Programming

Abstract This study validates the Ecological Programming Scale's (EPS) ability to predict expert ratings of program adherence to an ecological model. Social program descriptions are rated using a previously tested technique and on the EPS. Using principle components factor analysis, the EPS components load on three factors: the community control of the program, the systemic change focus of the program, and the degree to which the program is multidimensional. In comparing the two techniques' prediction of experts' ratings of the degree to which a program is ecological, the single EPS variable measuring program component integration was the strongest predictor. This measurement device may be used to assist researchers in determining the predictors and outcomes of ecological programming, as well as to provide a more precise framework for developing ecological interventions.
Multifunctional RNA polymerase II initiation factor delta from rat liver. Relationship between carboxyl-terminal domain kinase, ATPase, and DNA helicase activities.

RNA polymerase II initiation factor delta was previously purified from rat liver and found to possess a closely associated DNA-dependent ATPase activity and a protein kinase activity capable of phosphorylating the carboxyl-terminal domain (CTD) of the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (Serizawa, H., Conaway, R.C., and Conaway, J.W. (1992) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 89, 7476-7480). In addition, delta's human homolog, BTF2(TFIIH), was recently shown to have an associated DNA helicase activity (Schaeffer, L., Roy, R., Humbert, S., Moncollin, V., Vermeulen, W., Hoeijmakers, J.H.J., Chambon, P., and Egly, J.-M. (1993) Science 259, 58-63). Here we demonstrate that initiation factor delta also possesses DNA helicase activity. In addition, we compare the properties of delta's associated CTD kinase, ATPase, and DNA helicase activities. Whereas the enzymatic properties of ATPase and DNA helicase are similar and consistent with the possibility that they could function in ATP-dependent activation of the preinitiation complex, ATPase and CTD kinase exhibit significant differences in their nucleotide specificities, responses to DNA effectors, and sensitivities to inhibitors.