Tips for Retirement

Four former Linfield College presidents have suggestions for President Hellie as he settles into retirement

Carbon Dioxide Transport Plans for Carbon Capture and Storage in the North Sea Region - A summary of existing studies and proposals applicable to the development of Projects of Common Interest

The European Commission has made funding available for identified Projects of Common Interest (PCI) in energy infrastructure through its Connecting Europe Facility (European Commission, 2015a). A Project of Common Interest is a project necessary to implement the energy infrastructure priority corridors and thematic areas defined by the European Parliament; one priority thematic area is cross-border transport of CO2 for CCS (European Parliament, 2013). The identification and selection of PCIs for inclusion in the list of supported projects is made by regional or thematic groups consisting of the Commission, relevant Member States and project promoters. A thematic group for CO2 transport is currently being created (mid-2015), and criteria for project selection are being discussed. To inform this process the present document gives an overview of CO2 transport concepts and projects for CCS that have been proposed or assessed to date for the North Sea and wider European region.The European Commission has made funding available for identified Projects of Common Interest (PCI) in energy infrastructure through its Connecting Europe Facility (European Commission, 2015a). A Project of Common Interest is a project necessary to implement the energy infrastructure priority corridors and thematic areas defined by the European Parliament; one priority thematic area is cross-border transport of CO2 for CCS (European Parliament, 2013). The identification and selection of PCIs for inclusion in the list of supported projects is made by regional or thematic groups consisting of the Commission, relevant Member States and project promoters. A thematic group for CO2 transport is currently being created (mid-2015), and criteria for project selection are being discussed. To inform this process the present document gives an overview of CO2 transport concepts and projects for CCS that have been proposed or assessed to date for the North Sea and wider European region

Increased usage of special educational services by children born to mothers with systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid antibodies

Introduction: Surveys of long-term health and developmental outcomes of children born to mothers with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have suggested an increase in learning disabilities among these children. We performed this observational study to investigate the relationship between maternal autoantibodies and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) in maternal lupus patients and neurocognitive development among their offspring. Methods: SLE mothers with at least one live birth postlupus diagnosis were enrolled. Data on maternal medical/obstetric history and children’s perinatal/ medical history were collected by structured interview and medical record reviews. The primary outcome was requirement for special educational (SE) services, a proxy for developmental delays. Multiple logistic regression modelling was used to examine associations between APS and autoantibodies with SE usage, accounting for SLE disease severity and potential confounders. Results: Data on 38 mothers and 60 offspring were analysed: SE service usage was reported for 15 of 60 (25%) offspring. Maternal APS history was significantly associated with increased use of SE services among offspring, including after adjustment for lupus anticoagulant (LA) positivity and potential confounders (OR 5.5–9.4 for delays age ≥2; p<0.05). The presence of LA, but not other antiphospholipid antibodies, was also associated with increased SE services usage. Conclusions: Maternal APS and LA were independently associated with increased usage of special educational services among offspring of women with SLE.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/108201/1/Lupus Sci Med-2014-Marder-.pdf5

Early dark energy constraints with late-time expansion marginalization

Early dark energy (EDE) is an extension to the $\Lambda$CDM model, proposed to reduce the tension between the measurements of the Hubble constant $H_0$ from the cosmic microwave background (CMB) and from the local cosmic distance ladder. However, this model increases the $S_8$ tension between CMB and large scale structure measurements. Analyses of galaxy clustering and lensing correlation functions report a decreased preference for EDE and its effect on the Hubble tension. Smooth dark energy models affect growth of structure through the background expansion. In this work, we study the inclusion of a general, smooth late-time dark energy modification in combination with EDE and obtain constraints on EDE marginalized over the late-time expansion. We assess the impact on the $S_8$ and Hubble tensions. In order to generalize the late expansion, we use a late dark energy fluid model with a piecewise constant equation of state $w(z)$ over 3, 5 and 10 redshift bins in the window $z \in [0,3]$. We show that, when analyzing ACT and Planck CMB data combined with Pantheon supernovae, BAO from 6dF, SDSS and BOSS, Planck 2018 CMB lensing and Dark Energy Survey cosmic shear and clustering data, the inclusion of a general smooth dark energy modification at late times has no significant effect on $S_8$ and EDE parameter constraints. Using the aforementioned datasets, the EDE fraction constraint with late-time expansion marginalization is $f_\mathrm{EDE} = 0.067^{+0.019}_{-0.027}$ using 3 redshift bins, with similar results for 5 and 10 redshift bins. This work shows that in order to solve simultaneously the Hubble and $S_8$ tensions, one needs a mechanism for increasing the clustering of matter at late times different from a simple change in the background evolution of late dark energy. [Abridged]Comment: 22 pages, 9 figure

GRADE equity guidelines 4: guidance on how to assess and address health equity within the evidence to decision process

Objective: The aim of this paper is to provide detailed guidance on how to incorporate health equity within the GRADE (Grading Recommendations Assessment and Development Evidence) evidence to decision process. Study design and setting: We developed this guidance based on the GRADE evidence to decision (EtD) framework, iteratively reviewing and modifying draft documents, in person discussion of project group members and input from other GRADE members. Results: Considering the impact on health equity may be required, both in general guidelines, and guidelines that focus on disadvantaged populations. We suggest two approaches to incorporate equity considerations: 1) assessing the potential impact of interventions on equity and; 2) incorporating equity considerations when judging or weighing each of the evidence to decision criteria. We provide guidance and include illustrative examples. Conclusion: Guideline panels should consider the impact of recommendations on health equity with attention to remote and underserviced settings and disadvantaged populations. Guideline panels may wish to incorporate equity judgments across the evidence to decision framework

Frequent mutation of receptor protein tyrosine phosphatases provides a mechanism for STAT3 hyperactivation in head and neck cancer

The underpinnings of STAT3 hyperphosphorylation resulting in enhanced signaling and cancer progression are incompletely understood. Loss-of-function mutations of enzymes that dephosphorylate STAT3, such as receptor protein tyrosine phosphatases, which are encoded by the PTPR gene family, represent a plausible mechanism of STAT3 hyperactivation. We analyzed whole exome sequencing (n = 374) and reverse-phase protein array data (n = 212) from head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). PTPR mutations are most common and are associated with significantly increased phospho-STAT3 expression in HNSCC tumors. Expression of receptor-like protein tyrosine phosphatase T (PTPRT) mutant proteins induces STAT3 phosphorylation and cell survival, consistent with a “driver” phenotype. Computational modeling reveals functional consequences of PTPRT mutations on phospho-tyrosine–substrate interactions. A high mutation rate (30%) of PTPRs was found in HNSCC and 14 other solid tumors, suggesting that PTPR alterations, in particular PTPRT mutations, may define a subset of patients where STAT3 pathway inhibitors hold particular promise as effective therapeutic agents.Fil: Lui, Vivian Wai Yan. University of Pittsburgh; Estados UnidosFil: Peyser, Noah D.. University of Pittsburgh; Estados UnidosFil: Ng, Patrick Kwok-Shing. University Of Texas Md Anderson Cancer Center;Fil: Hritz, Jozef. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh; Estados Unidos. Masaryk University; República ChecaFil: Zeng, Yan. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh; Estados UnidosFil: Lu, Yiling. University Of Texas Md Anderson Cancer Center;Fil: Li, Hua. University of Pittsburgh; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados UnidosFil: Wang, Lin. University of Pittsburgh; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados UnidosFil: Gilbert, Breean R.. University of Pittsburgh; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados UnidosFil: General, Ignacio. University of Pittsburgh; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados UnidosFil: Bahar, Ivet. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh; Estados UnidosFil: Ju, Zhenlin. University Of Texas Md Anderson Cancer Center;Fil: Wang, Zhenghe. Case Western Reserve University; Estados UnidosFil: Pendleton, Kelsey P.. University of Pittsburgh; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados UnidosFil: Xiao, Xiao. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh; Estados UnidosFil: Du, Yu. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh; Estados UnidosFil: Vries, John K.. University of Pittsburgh; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados UnidosFil: Hammerman, Peter S.. Harvard Medical School; Estados UnidosFil: Garraway, Levi A.. Harvard Medical School; Estados UnidosFil: Mills, Gordon B.. University Of Texas Md Anderson Cancer Center;Fil: Johnson, Daniel E.. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh; Estados UnidosFil: Grandis, Jennifer R.. University of Pittsburgh; Estados Unidos. University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Estados Unido

GRADE equity guidelines 3: considering health equity in GRADE guideline development: rating the certainty of synthesized evidence

Objectives: The aim of this paper is to describe a conceptual framework for how to consider health equity in the Grading Recommendations Assessment and Development Evidence (GRADE) guideline development process. Study Design and Setting: Consensus-based guidance developed by the GRADE working group members and other methodologists. Results: We developed consensus-based guidance to help address health equity when rating the certainty of synthesized evidence (i.e., quality of evidence). When health inequity is determined to be a concern by stakeholders, we propose five methods for explicitly assessing health equity: (1) include health equity as an outcome; (2) consider patient-important outcomes relevant to health equity; (3) assess differences in the relative effect size of the treatment; (4) assess differences in baseline risk and the differing impacts on absolute effects; and (5) assess indirectness of evidence to disadvantaged populations and/or settings. Conclusion: The most important priority for research on health inequity and guidelines is to identify and document examples where health equity has been considered explicitly in guidelines. Although there is a weak scientific evidence base for assessing health equity, this should not discourage the explicit consideration of how guidelines and recommendations affect the most vulnerable members of society

Metal production in M33: space and time variations

Nearby galaxies are ideal places to study in detail metallicity gradients and their time evolution. We consider chemical abundances of a new sample of \hii\ regions complemented with previous literature data-sets. We compare \hii\ region and PN abundances obtained with a common set of observations taken at MMT. With an updated theoretical model, we follow the time evolution of the baryonic components and chemical abundances in the disk of M33, assuming that the galaxy is accreting gas from an external reservoir. Supported by a uniform sample of nebular spectroscopic observations, we conclude that: {\em i}) the metallicity distribution in M33 is very complex, showing a central depression in metallicity probably due to observational bias; {\em ii}) the metallicity gradient in the disk of M33 has a slope of -0.037$\pm$ 0.009 dex kpc$^{-1}$ in the whole radial range up to $\sim$8 kpc, and -0.044$\pm$ 0.009 dex kpc$^{-1}$ excluding the central kpc; {\em iii}) there is a small evolution of the slope with time from the epoch of PN progenitor formation to the present-time.}Comment: A&A accepted, 15 Pags, 13 Figs, language correctio

Characterization of five members of the actin gene family in the sea urchin

Hybridization of an actin cDNA clone (pSA38) to restriction enzyme digests of Strongylocentrotus purpuratus DNA indicates that the sea urchin genome contains at least five different actin genes. A sea urchin genomic clone library was screened for recombinants which hydridize to pSA38 and four genomic clones were isolated. Restriction maps were generated which indicate that three of these recombinants contain different actin genes, and that the fourth may be an allele to one of these. The restriction maps suggest that one clone contains two linked actin genes. This fact, which was confirmed by heteroduplex analysis, indicates that the actin gene family may be clustered. The linked genes are oriented in the same direction and spaced about 8.0 kilobases apart. In heteroduplexes between genomic clones two intervening sequences were seen. Significant homology is confined to the actin coding region and does not include any flanking sequence. Southern blot analysis reveals that repetitive DNA sequences are found in the region of the actin genes.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/24164/1/0000422.pd

Achieving a low-carbon society: CCS expertise and opportunity in the UK

The outcome of the Paris climate talks in late 2015 was hailed as a “turning point” for international action on climate change, with 195 countries agreeing to limit the increase in average global temperatures to 1.5oC by the end of this century. It is an ambitious and necessary goal, but is it achievable? An increasing emphasis on clean, renewable energy is essential, as are more efficient ways of using energy. However, the best of intentions will hit an insurmountable roadblock if we continue to burn fossil fuels without deploying Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). CCS is a chain of proven technologies that can take us all the way to a zero-carbon future. For many economies that will be reliant on fossil fuels for several decades, CCS can support a gradual phasing in of renewable energy. CCS remains the only path to deep cuts in carbon emissions from products such as cement, steel and fertiliser - even whisky - and will effectively decarbonise power and heat generation. Deployed on gas or sustainable biomass power, it can plug the gaps in the intermittency of power supply from renewables. And there are many studies that show that the UK and its assets are best placed to deliver CCS for the whole of Europe. Although CCS is already operating in other parts of the world, this climate change technology has had a tough time making progress in the UK. The latest blow came in the last quarter of 2015, within days of the Paris talks. Two major UK CCS projects were poised to begin construction after completing front-end engineering and design (FEED) studies. Without warning, anticipated funding from the UK Government's £1 billion CCS Commercialisation Competition was withdrawn before these studies had been submitted. The Peterhead CCS Project, set to become the world's first CCS project on gas power, and White Rose, which would demonstrate oxyfuel with CCS technology on coal power, have had little choice but to consider closure. In the aftermath of the COP21 climate deal, and with the UK's own climate change advisers restating the importance of the technology in meeting the UK's Fifth Carbon Budget, the case for CCS remains as cogent as ever. In the UK, we have access to an immense CO2 storage asset beneath the North Sea, which could contain a century of Europe's carbon emissions. Added to that is an impressive track record of world-leading research and development (R&D), decades of oil and gas industry knowledge and skills and an infrastructure facing decommissioning that can be repurposed to put carbon back below ground. The progress and potential of CCS in the UK is much more than a government competition. This report describes why we need to get one of the most obvious and effective climate change tools back on track and highlights the strengths of and opportunities for the UK - and Scotland, in particular.The outcome of the Paris climate talks in late 2015 was hailed as a “turning point” for international action on climate change, with 195 countries agreeing to limit the increase in average global temperatures to 1.5oC by the end of this century. It is an ambitious and necessary goal, but is it achievable? An increasing emphasis on clean, renewable energy is essential, as are more efficient ways of using energy. However, the best of intentions will hit an insurmountable roadblock if we continue to burn fossil fuels without deploying Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). CCS is a chain of proven technologies that can take us all the way to a zero-carbon future. For many economies that will be reliant on fossil fuels for several decades, CCS can support a gradual phasing in of renewable energy. CCS remains the only path to deep cuts in carbon emissions from products such as cement, steel and fertiliser - even whisky - and will effectively decarbonise power and heat generation. Deployed on gas or sustainable biomass power, it can plug the gaps in the intermittency of power supply from renewables. And there are many studies that show that the UK and its assets are best placed to deliver CCS for the whole of Europe. Although CCS is already operating in other parts of the world, this climate change technology has had a tough time making progress in the UK. The latest blow came in the last quarter of 2015, within days of the Paris talks. Two major UK CCS projects were poised to begin construction after completing front-end engineering and design (FEED) studies. Without warning, anticipated funding from the UK Government's £1 billion CCS Commercialisation Competition was withdrawn before these studies had been submitted. The Peterhead CCS Project, set to become the world's first CCS project on gas power, and White Rose, which would demonstrate oxyfuel with CCS technology on coal power, have had little choice but to consider closure. In the aftermath of the COP21 climate deal, and with the UK's own climate change advisers restating the importance of the technology in meeting the UK's Fifth Carbon Budget, the case for CCS remains as cogent as ever. In the UK, we have access to an immense CO2 storage asset beneath the North Sea, which could contain a century of Europe's carbon emissions. Added to that is an impressive track record of world-leading research and development (R&D), decades of oil and gas industry knowledge and skills and an infrastructure facing decommissioning that can be repurposed to put carbon back below ground. The progress and potential of CCS in the UK is much more than a government competition. This report describes why we need to get one of the most obvious and effective climate change tools back on track and highlights the strengths of and opportunities for the UK - and Scotland, in particular