cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Comprehensive Look at the Empirical Performance of Equity Premium Prediction

Our article comprehensively reexamines the performance of variables that have been suggested by the academic literature to be good predictors of the equity premium. We find that by and large, these models have predicted poorly both in-sample (IS) and out-of-sample (OOS) for 30 years now; these models seem unstable, as diagnosed by their out-of-sample predictions and other statistics; and these models would not have helped an investor with access only to available information to profitably time the market.
Retrieval models for question and answer archives

Retrieval in a question and answer archive involves finding good answers for a user's question. In contrast to typical document retrieval, a retrieval model for this task can exploit question similarity as well as ranking the associated answers. In this paper, we propose a retrieval model that combines a translation-based language model for the question part with a query likelihood approach for the answer part. The proposed model incorporates word-to-word translation probabilities learned through exploiting different sources of information. Experiments show that the proposed translation based language model for the question part outperforms baseline methods significantly. By combining with the query likelihood language model for the answer part, substantial additional effectiveness improvements are obtained.
PION-NUCLEON PHASE-SHIFT ANALYSIS: 0-350 Mev.

Several sets of energy-dependent pion-nucleon phase shifts have been obtained in the 0-350-MeV energy range. These solutions differ near the end of the energy range and in the signs and magnitudes of some of the small phases. There is very little difference among these solutions in their prediction of the observables, including the spin-rotation parameters. Some very difficult experiments are suggested to distinguish among the solutions.
Psychometric Properties of the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory in a Competitive Sport Setting: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis

Abstract The present study was designed to assess selected psychometric properties of the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI) (Ryan, 1982), a multidimensional measure of subjects' experience with regard to experimental tasks. Subjects (N = 116) competed in a basketball free-throw shooting game, following which they completed the IMI. The LISREL VI computer program was employed to conduct a confirmatory factor analysis to assess the tenability of a five factor hierarchical model representing four first-order factors or dimensions and a second-order general factor representing intrinsic motivation. Indices of model acceptability tentatively suggest that the sport data adequately fit the hypothesized five factor hierarchical model. Alternative models were tested but did not result in significant improvements in the goodness-of-fit indices, suggesting the proposed model to be the most accurate of the models tested. Coefficient alphas for the four dimensions and the overall scale indicated adequate reliabilit...
Pre‐service secondary mathematics teachers’ beliefs about the nature of technology in the classroom

This study investigated pre-service secondary mathematics teachers' (PSTs) beliefs about teaching mathematics with technology, the experiences in which those beliefs were grounded, and the organizational structure of those beliefs. In particular, this article reports on research that was designed to investigate questions beyond that of whether technology can profitably be used before mathematical content has been mastered (the question about technology most commonly reported in the literature). Beliefs were defined as dispositions to act and were viewed through what is referred to as the sensible system framework. Through the qualitative research methodology called grounded theory, four PSTs were purposefully selected and studied. The primary dimensions of the PSTs' core beliefs with respect to technology, referred to as their beliefs about the nature of technology in the classroom, were beliefs about the availability of technology, about the purposeful use of technology, and about the importance of teacher knowledge of technology.
Using technology for stakeholder consultation. The World Bank's use of GroupSystems V in developing countries

The World Bank, a multi-lateral development bank, has used Ventana's GroupSystems V on three different occasions in two African countries to gather input on World Bank strategies from a wide variety of stakeholders (government officials, public and private sector, and tribal chiefs). This tool has enabled the World Bank to produce strategies more reflective of stakeholders' needs in an efficient and cost-effective fashion.
A level set method for dislocation dynamics

We propose a three-dimensional level set method for dislocation dynamics in which the dislocation lines are represented in three dimensions by the intersection of the zero levels of two level set functions. Since the level set method does not discretize nor directly track individual dislocation line segments, it easily handles topological changes occurring in the microstructure. The dislocation dynamics are not limited to glide along a slip plane, but also account for threedimensional aspects of their motion: cross-slip occurs naturally and climb is included by fixing the relative climb and glide mobility. The level set dislocation dynamics method was implemented using an accurate finite difference scheme on a uniform grid. To demonstrate the versatility, utility and simplicity of this new model, we present examples including the motion of dislocation loops under applied and self-stresses (including glide, cross-slip and climb), intersections of dislocation lines, operation of Frank–Read sources and dislocations bypassing particles.
The Effect of Odours, Irritant Vapours, and Mental Work upon the Blood Flow

The most important of this investigation has been the completion of various improvements in the construction and use of the plethysmograph, by means of which numerous errors attending the use of the instrument have been eliminated. The results of the work show that all olfactory sensations, so far as they produce any effect through the vasomotor system, tend to diminish the volume of the arm, and therefore presumably cause a congestion of the brain. Whenever the stimulation occassions an increase in the volume of the arm, as sometimes happens, it seems to be due to acceleration of the heart rate, which, of course, tends also to increase the supply of blood to the brain. The of odours varies in extent with different individuals, and with the same individual at different times. It was most marked in subjects sensitive to odours. Irritant vapours, such as formic acid, have a marked effect in the same direction—that is, they cause a strong diminution in the volume of the arm. The experiments give no support to the view that pleasant sensations are accompanied by a diminution of the See PDF for Structure blood supply to the brain and unpleasant sensations by the reverse efeect. In all my experiments mental work caused a marked and prolonged diminution in the volume of the arm. This vasomotor effect was sometimes preceded by a transitory increase in the volume of the arm caused by acceleration of heart rate.
A Novel Bioreactor Process for Anchorage-Independent Animal Cells Immobilized Within Porous Biomass Support Particles

A novel bioreactor process for the cultivation of anchorage-independent animal cells was developed using a passive immobilization technique within porous support particles (biomass support particles, BSPs). Physically entrapped mouse myeloma MPC-11 (ATCC CCL 167) cells within reticulated polyvinyl formal (PVF) resin BSPs (3×3×3 mm) with relatively small pores of 30–100 μm in diameter were successfully cultivated in a static culture. Cells became naturally immobilized in the BSPs by forming aggregates within the matrices of the reticulated PVF resin. Cell immobilization within the BSPs and long-term cultivation with high-cell density could also be performed in a circulating bed fermentor. Good mechanical strength and stability of the BSPs allowed long duration of cultivation with sparging aeration.
Feeder Topology Identification.

Advanced control of distributed energy resources at the consumer level requires full situational awareness of the the distribution system. One important problem is that of feeder topology identification, due to changing switch configurations, given a sparse number of measurements. We formulate the problem for residential feeders as a spanning tree identification problem over a general graph. Given a set of power flow measurements and load pseudo measurements, we show that the underlying graph structure is crucial in defining identifiability of the correct spanning tree on the graph. First we solve the deterministic case of known true loads and measured power flow. We show that the placement of sensors on the network alone determine whether the set of spanning trees can be correctly identified. In the stochastic case where loads are in the form of noisy forecasts, we present a locally optimal sensor placement algorithm.
Taboo: corporeal secrets in nineteenth-century France

In her latest literary study, Taboo: Corporeal Secrets in Nineteenth-century France, Hannah Thompson explores the relationship between the body and the limits of representation in canonical French ...
Safety of the Entomopathogen Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis for Mammals

Six preparations of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis de Barjac were tested for toxicity and infectivity to mice, rats, and rabbits. Oral and aerosol administration of the microbial insecticide to rats resulted in no deaths. Intraperitoneal injection of one preparation into athymic mice produced substantial mortality (26/42), but a subsequent experiment with a different preparation did not result in mortality. B. t. israelensis persisted in the spleen of mice for as long as 7 wk, but multiplication in mammals was not evident. Colony-forming units of B. t. israelensis seemed to be cleared from the host as inert particles. B. t. israelensis dusts caused minimal ocular irritation and pastes caused severe conjunctival congestion in rabbit eyes. We conclude that B. t. israelensis is not a virulent, invasive mammalian pathogen and that it can be used safely in environments where human exposure is likely to occur.
Routine use of hemiarch during acute type A aortic dissection repair

Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA *These authors contributed equally to this work. Correspondence to: Wilson Y. Szeto. Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, 51 N 39th St, Heart & Vascular Pavilion 2A, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. Email: wilson.szeto@uphs.upenn.edu.
Exposure to Secondhand Smoke Among Nonsmokers in New York City in the Context of Recent Tobacco Control Policies: Current Status, Changes Over the Past Decade, and National Comparisons.

Introduction Exposure to secondhand smoke is hazardous and can cause cancer, coronary heart disease, and birth defects. New York City (NYC) and other jurisdictions have established smoke-free air laws in the past 10-15 years. Methods NYC Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (HANES) 2013-2014 was a population-based survey of NYC residents, aged 20 years and older, in which biospecimens were collected and cotinine levels were measured. Secondhand smoke exposure was assessed by demographics and risk factors and compared with that from NYC HANES 2004 and national HANES. Results More than a third (37.1%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 33.3%-41.2%) of nonsmoking adult New Yorkers were exposed to secondhand smoke, defined as a cotinine level of 0.05-10ng/mL. This was significantly lower than in 2004 NYC HANES, when 56.7% (95% CI = 53.6%-59.7%) of nonsmokers were exposed to secondhand smoke, but was greater than the proportion of adults exposed nationwide, as measured by national HANES (24.4%, 95% CI = 22.0%-26.9% in 2011-2012). Men, non-Hispanic blacks, adults aged 20-39, those with less education, and those living in high-poverty neighborhoods were more likely to be exposed. Conclusions There has been a large decrease in secondhand smoke exposure in NYC, although disparities persist. The decrease may be the result of successful policies to limit exposure to secondhand smoke in public places and of smokers smoking fewer cigarettes per day. Yet NYC residents still experience more secondhand smoke exposure than US residents overall. Possible explanations include multiunit housing, greater population density, and pedestrian exposure. Implications Measuring exposure to secondhand smoke can be difficult, and few studies have monitored changes over time. This study uses serum cotinine, a nicotine metabolite, from a local population-based examination survey, the NYC HANES 2013-2014, to examine exposure to secondhand smoke in an urban area that has implemented stringent antismoking laws. Comparison with NYC HANES conducted 10 years ago allows for an assessment of changes in the last decade in the context of municipal tobacco control policies. Results may be helpful to jurisdictions considering implementing similar tobacco control policies.
Communication theoretical implications of the Ray Rice controversy

AbstractThe Ray Rice Controversy is a condemnatory case that prompted immediate action on the part of the NFL (National Football League) to execute organizational level changes in regard to their domestic abuse policy that applied not only to their players, but all employees that are a part of this organization. This paper attempts to research the events and the news coverage by the media that affected the proceedings of this case and its role in raising awareness toward the prevalence of domestic violence among the players of the NFL and instigating major policy changes at the organizational level of the NFL. This study examines the theoretical implications of communication theories and their protagonist role in bringing about communal and regulatory changes.
Preparation of Compound I in P450cam: The Prototypical P450

Cytochrome P450cam occupies a central position in the heme monooxygenase landscape. For many years, P450cam has served as a prototype for understanding structure and function in bacterial, fungal, microsomal, and plant P450s. The enzyme is believed to function through a highly reactive iron(IV)oxo radical species called compound I. While the first glimpses of compound I were observed in P450cam over thirty years ago, subsequent attempts to prepare the intermediate for further characterizations have proven unsuccessful. Given that the initial reports provided great promise, the nature of the subsequent failures has been extremely puzzling. Here we detail the preparation of compound I in P450cam. Using insights gained from previous investigations, we have obtained the intermediate in ∼ 45 % yield, allowing characterizations by UV/Visible, Mossbauer, and EPR spectroscopies. This report provides a missing piece of the monooxygenase landscape, verifying the existence of compound I in the most studied P450.
Realisierung im COCOON-Projekt

Bislang haben wir Evolution in Objekt-Datenbanken als ein rein konzeptuelles Problem betrachtet. Tatsachlich verbirgt diese Thematik jedoch auch eine grose Anzahl interessanter und kritischer Implementierungsaspekte, denen wir uns in diesem Kapitel widmen wollen.
Air Quality: Global and Regional Emissions of Particulate Matter, SOx, and NOx

Poor air quality is known to have deleterious effects on the environment and human health. A variety of air pollutants are identified at unprecedented levels. Particulate matter and oxides of sulfur and nitrogen are common pollutants of the atmosphere. The emissions of these criteria pollutants have been studied widely. An overview of their global and regional emissions is helpful in assessing the status of contributions from various sectors and efficacy of control strategies over the years in both developed and developing nations of the world. Particulate matter levels in developed regions have been observed to have decreased substantially toward the end of the twentieth century, contrary to the trend of emissions in developing countries. Transportation and power generation sectors are key sources of PM emissions. Oxides of sulfur have been observed to have peaked in the 1970s and subsequently decreased thereafter on a global scale; however, the developing economies have registered a rise in emissions. Similar trend has been observed for oxides of nitrogen with decline of emissions from developed regions of the world and subsequent increase from developing countries in the earlier part of the twenty-first century. Timely intervention of suitable strategies to combat emissions in developing regions is crucial to nullify the increasing trend of emissions. The present chapter provides an overview of three criteria air pollutants – particulate matter, oxides of sulfur, and oxides of nitrogen with respect to their changing global and regional emission scenario in the past decades and sector-wise contributions.
Mosaics and Lamination in the Retina

The highly ordered architecture of the neural retina makes it an excellent system to study neuron spacing and dendrite organization. Adult retinal neurites and cell bodies are organized in a highly stereotyped manner in formation of the radial circuitry of the retina, from photoreceptors to retinal ganglion cells. The circuitry formed by these cells is functionally separated into ON and OFF pathways in the retinal outer plexiform layer. These pathways are then spatially divided within the retinal inner plexiform layer, in which coding for additional aspects of vision, such as movement and edge detection, are added. Many cell types and neural circuits in the retina are also spaced across the horizontal plane of the retina so as to sample these and other features of vision evenly across the visual field. The mechanisms and molecules underpinning organization of the retina have been the subjects of intensive study. These studies have found that retinal circuitry is largely hardwired by transmembrane receptors, many of them cell adhesion molecules, and their ligands, with activity helping to further refine development. In this chapter, we focus on developmental mechanisms, such as programmed cell death, migration, and neurite refinement that increase organization of retinal cell bodies and neurites, as well as the molecules by which cells recognize and respond to appropriate contacts and domains.
Scalable prognostic models for large-scale condition monitoring applications

ABSTRACTHigh-value engineering assets are often embedded with numerous sensing technologies that monitor and track their performance. Capturing physical and performance degradation entails the use of various types of sensors that generate massive amounts of multivariate data. Building a prognostic model for such large-scale datasets, however, often presents two key challenges: how to effectively fuse the degradation signals from a large number of sensors and how to make the model scalable to the large data size. To address the two challenges, this article presents a scalable semi-parametric statistical framework specifically designed for synthesizing and combining multistream sensor signals using two signal fusion algorithms developed from functional principal component analysis. Using the algorithms, we identify fused signal features and predict (in near real-time) the remaining lifetime of partially degraded systems using an adaptive functional (log)-location-scale regression modeling framework. We vali...
Efficacy of treatment with pseudoephedrine in men with retrograde ejaculation.

The use of pseudoephedrine, an alpha agonist, for the treatment of retrograde ejaculation is well-known, however, there is no clear consensus from the literature regarding its efficacy and treatment protocol. We evaluated the efficacy of pseudoephedrine treatment in patients with retrograde ejaculation, utilizing a yet undescribed short-period treatment protocol. Twenty men were medically treated with pseudoephedrine for retrograde ejaculation between January 2010 and May 2016 (12 with complete retrograde ejaculation and 8 with partial retrograde ejaculation). All patients had a semen analysis and post-ejaculatory urinalysis before and after treatment. The treatment protocol consisted of 60 mg of pseudoephedrine every 6 h on the day before semen analysis and two more 60 mg doses on the day of the semen analysis. Diabetes was the most common etiology for complete retrograde ejaculation (60%), whereas an idiopathic cause was the most common etiology for partial retrograde ejaculation (82%). Of the 12 complete retrograde ejaculation patients treated with pseudoephedrine prior to semen analysis, 7 (58.3%) recovered spermatozoa in the antegrade ejaculate, with a mean total sperm count of 273.5 ± 172.5 million. Of the eight patients with partial retrograde ejaculation, five (62.5%) had a ≥50% increase in the antegrade total sperm count. In this group, the mean total sperm count increased from 26.9 ± 8.5 million before treatment to 84.2 ± 24.6 million after treatment, whereas the percentage of spermatozoa in the urine declined from 43.2 ± 9% to 17 ± 10%, respectively (both p < 0.05). Overall, in men with retrograde ejaculation treated with a pseudoephedrine regimen prior to ejaculation, some improvement in seminal parameters occurred in 14 (70%) patients, with 10 patients (38.5% of all patients) achieving antegrade total sperm counts over 39 million.
Adaptive Controller to Minimize Ship Steering Propulsion Losses: Time Series Modeling and Statistical Analysis Results

Abstract Statistical time-series and multivariable regression analysis techniques are employed to investigate the properties of a multivariable model for ship/steering and seaway disturbance dynamics. Confidence intervals for the model parameter values to be identified by least-squares in an adaptive steering autopilot scheme are calculated. Residual analysis techniques are used to verify the validity of models via data from ship/steering/seaway simulations. The sufficiency of a firstorder multivariable time-series model within a self-tuning adaptive control algorithm framework is shown to be justified by the results obtained.
Identifying Urban Neighborhoods for Tree Canopy Restoration Through Community Participation

This chapter describes the development of an urban tree canopy cover assessment and restoration project designed to inform community stakeholders and to guide tree planting efforts in disadvantaged neighborhoods surrounding the Indianapolis, Indiana central business district. The primary goals of the project were to create estimates of tree canopy cover and distribution within the study region, and to identify neighborhoods in which to focus tree planting efforts. Estimates derived from high resolution satellite imagery and aerial photography indicate approximately 17% of the studying region was covered by tree canopy. A site selection model identified eight residential neighborhoods that exhibited social and environmental characteristics prioritized for tree planting. These neighborhoods contained significantly less tree cover than other residential communities. The results of this study were used to inform a tree planting campaign, the Indianapolis NeighborWoods initiative, with a goal of planting 100,000 trees in the study region.
Abstract 1233: WNT inhibitor ICG-001 prevents visceral metastatic triple negative breast cancer in a chemo-resistant patient derived xenograft -PDX-model

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by absence of the estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) amplification. Such cancers are highly aggressive and frequently metastasize to the lung and brain. Unlike other breast cancer subtypes such as, ER+, PR+ and/or HER2+, TNBCs have no specific targeted-therapeutics; therefore, studies should be directed for development of targeted therapies to treat this condition. Recent studies indicate that Wnt/β-catenin signaling is particularly activated in TNBC and is associated with reduced overall survival in all patients. Therefore, pharmacological targeting of Wnt signaling pathway constitutes an ideal approach for treating TNBC and various Wnt inhibitors are currently in use in clinical trials, such as; ICG-001 in metastatic colon cancer. The inhibitory effects of ICG-001 have not been tested in chemoresistant TNBC PDX tumors. Herein, we report for the first time that ICG-001 compound selectively inhibited the growth of several European American (EA) and African American (AA) triple negative breast cancer subtypes MSL and BSL-1 cell lines both in vitro and in vivo models. To further investigate the precise mechanisms of action in the regulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling by ICG-001, we performed Western blot analysis, apoptosis assays, cell cycle assays and quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase- polymerase chain reactions in human triple negative breast cancer cells. This compound significantly interfered with Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and its inhibition led to downregulation of important downstream targets such as Axin2, HMGA2, PCNA, c-myc and Cyclin D1, which in turn led to inhibition of proliferation, cell cycle progression and metastasis confirming our previous results too. In addition ICG-001 inhibited the invasion and motility of tumor cells and showed inhibition and prevention of visceral metastatic PDX tumors from both chemoresistant EA and AA women. These results indicate that the Wnt inhibitor ICG-001 could constitute a powerful new chemotherapeutic agent against triple negative breast cancer. Citation Format: Iram Fatima, Ikbale El Ayachi, Chidi Zacheaus, Joseph Kerby Gray, Raya Krutilina, Tiffany N. Seagroves, Susan A. Krum, Gustavo A. Miranda-Carboni. WNT inhibitor ICG-001 prevents visceral metastatic triple negative breast cancer in a chemo-resistant patient derived xenograft -PDX-model [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 1233. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-1233
Treatment of Kimura disease with mycophenolate mofetil monotherapy.

Kimura disease (KD) is a rare idiopathic condition that presents as solitary or multiple painless subcutaneous masses in the head and neck region. It may also involve extracutaneous sites, such as regional lymph nodes, major salivary glands, and the kidneys.1 Most cases reported occurred in Asian men between 20 and 30 years of age.2 Treatment is often sought for symptomatic relief and cosmetic concerns. Therapeutic modalities for KD include surgical excision, radiotherapy, and various immunomodulating agents, such as oral corticosteroids, cyclosporine, and leflunomide.1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Most cases have favorable initial responses to treatment, but relapse occurs at rates as high as 60% to 100%.4, 5, 6 We report a case of KD with sustained response to mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) monotherapy.
Variable target detection using Simplex ACE

In hyperspectral target detection, a hyperspectral image is usually collected from an airborne or satellite platform, and the goal is to identify all occurrences of a particular target material within that image. When the target of interest can have a single relatively stable reference spectrum, e.g., as with a chemical plume, then the detection algorithms are relatively straightforward. When the target of interest can be represented by a variety of spectra, then the detection algorithms are more complicated. For variable target spectra, subspace detection approaches are typically used. As the number of target spectra that are needed to describe the target grows, however, so does the size of the target subspace, and so does the number of false detections. Here we present an experiment on the newly developed Simplex ACE detector, where the target subspace is instead represented by a constrained subspace, or simplex. We will show how increased target variability causes Subspace ACE to degrade as the target subspace approaches the entire image subspace, and demonstrate how Simplex ACE is robust to that same variability.
Varying weekly work hours and earnings instability in the Great Recession.

Abstract Unstable work schedules are increasingly a prominent stratification outcome, particularly for low-wage workers. Nationally representative and longitudinal research on the topic is limited, however. This article examines varying numbers of weekly work hours among hourly workers, their increase during the Great Recession of the late 2000s, and their impact on growing earnings instability. Using data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP), the cumulative probability of ever reporting varying hours among hourly workers increased from 36 percent between 2004 and 2007 to 46 percent between 2008 and 2012. Changes in state-level economic conditions, particularly state-level unemployment rates and economic growth, largely explain the increase in varying hours, consistent with arguments that employers pass the costs of volatile demand onto workers. Finally, variance function regressions show the growth of varying hours accounts for the significant increase in earnings instability from 2004–7 to 2008–12.
Spacing of edge fractures in layered materials

Opening-mode fractures developed from a free surface in a layered material often terminate at the interface that divides the fractured layer and the underlying layer. They also display regular spacing that is of the same order of magnitude as the thickness of the fractured layer. We have investigated the stress distribution between two adjacent edge fractures as a function of the ratio of fracture spacing to thickness of the fractured layer using a two-layer elastic model with a fractured top layer. The results show that when the ratio of fracture spacing to the layer thickness changes from greater than to less than a critical value the normal stress acting perpendicular to the fractures near the free surface changes from tensile to compressive. This stress state transition precludes further infilling of fractures unless they are driven by mechanisms other than a pure extension, or there are flaws that significantly perturb the local stress field between the fractures. Hence, the critical fracture spacing to layer thickness ratio defines a lower limit for fractures driven by extension, which also defines the condition of fracture saturation. The critical value of the fracture spacing to layer thickness ratio is independent of the average strain of the fractured layer, and it increases with increasing ratio of Young's modulus of the fractured layer to that of the underlying layer. The critical value increases with increasing Poisson's ratio of the fractured layer, but it decreases with increasing Poisson's ratio of the underlying layer. For the case with the same elastic constants for the fractured layer and the underlying layer, the critical spacing to layer thickness ratio is about 3.1. Delamination between the fractured layer and the underlying layer makes the critical spacing to layer thickness ratio much greater. Infilling fractures grow more easily from flaws located near the bottom of the fractured layer than from those located near the free surface when the spacing to layer thickness ratio is less than the critical value. The propagation of an edge flaw between adjacent edge fractures is unstable, but for the flaw to propagate to the interface, its height has to be greater than a critical size, that decreases with increasing fracture spacing to layer thickness ratio. The propagation behavior of an internal flaw with its lower tip at the interface depends on the edge fracture spacing to layer thickness ratio. The propagation is unstable, when the fracture spacing to layer thickness ratio is greater than a critical value; stable, when the fracture spacing to layer thickness ratio is less than another critical value; and first unstable, then stable, and/or unstable again, when the fracture spacing to layer thickness ratio is between these two critical values.
Consistent Linear-Elastic Transformations for Image Matching

A fundamental problem with a large class of image registration techniques is that the estimated transformation from image A to B does not equal the inverse of the estimated transform from B to A. This inconsistency is a result of the matching criteria's inability to uniquely describe the correspondences between two images. This paper seeks to overcome this limitation by jointly estimating the transformation from A to B and from B to A while enforcing the consistency constraint that these transforms are inverses of one another. The transformations are further restricted to preserve topology by constraining them to obey the laws of continuum mechanics. A new parameterization of the transformation based on a Fourier series in the context of linear elasticity is presented. Results are presented using both Magnetic Resonance and X-ray Computed Tomography Imagery. It is shown that joint estimation of a consistent set of forward and reverse transformations constrained by linear-elasticity gives better registration results than using either constraint alone or none at all.
Profiting from 'Profligates': The Credit Industry's Business Model for Postbankruptcy Lending

Consumer credit and consumer bankruptcy filings have grown rapidly over the last two decades, and several researchers have attempted to understand the relationship between these two intertwined features of the modern American economy. Teasing out causation is almost impossible, as consumer advocates lay blame on the industry and the industry responds by citing the same data to show consumer misbehavior. Using a novel vantage point, this analysis examines what the credit industry's behavior toward recently bankrupt families reveals about its internal profit models and the likely causes of consumer bankruptcy. The empirical evidence on postbankruptcy credit solicitation suggests that the industry sees bankrupt debtors as lucrative targets for high-yield lending. Such findings have important implications for developing optimal consumer credit policy and bankruptcy law.
Real-Time Multiplex PCR Analysis in Infectious Uveitis

Introduction: Infectious uveitis is a serious inflammatory condition that often causes grave ocular morbidity including permanent vision loss and damage to the structures of the eye. The most common causes of infectious uveitis include herpesviruses and Toxoplasma gondii. Traditionally, these infections have been identified and differentiated based on characteristic clinical examination findings; however, there is often overlap between these presentations and the unique cause of a given patient's infection is not always clear. Therefore, a reliable and fast method for definitively diagnosing infectious uveitis would be helpful and potentially sight-saving. Several groups have recently found experimental success with real-time multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature was undertaken to further understand the current state of real-time multiplex PCR and its clinical use. Search terms including "real time multiplex PCR", "infectious uveitis", and "uveitis diagnosis" were used. Appropriate English-language articles were included in this review. Results: Publications from four main groups (two from the United States, one from Japan, and one from India) citing success with real-time multiplex PCR were compared and contrasted. All four groups used the same technique to develop a highly sensitive and specific multiplex PCR analysis and found that their tests maintained high sensitivity and specificity during validation testing. These tests confirmed clinical suspicions in the majority of cases of infectious uveitis, but there were also cases of clinical misdiagnosis that were corrected based on molecular pathogen detection. These patients were then initiated on appropriate antimicrobial therapy with subsequent clinical improvement. Discussion: Real-time multiplex PCR is a highly sensitive and specific laboratory assay that allows for rapid and reliable molecular diagnosis of causative agents in infectious uveitis. This in turn facilitates swift initiation of effective therapy and prevents long-term ocular damage and vision loss.
Gendered Experiences in the Backcountry

Gender differences in outdoor participation rates persist. This study examined the self-reported issues women experience while long-distance backpacking, noting particular attention to gendered challenges and the strategies employed to handle these issues. Understanding the issues women face can inform outdoor adventure leaders and educators about how the issues may constrain women’s participation and help identify strategies for potentially managing constraints. Using data collected from backpackers who hiked on average 88% of the 220-mile John Muir Trail (JMT) in 2015 (565 completed responses), a secondary data analysis focused on questions asked of self-identified women regarding issues on the trail such as inappropriate or threatening conduct from men, menstruation, and health and hygiene. Qualitative comments (362) were analyzed via thematic analysis, revealing two key themes: the presumption of masculine dominance and gendered physical challenges for women in the backcountry. Results indicate that perceptions of gendered dominance and vulnerability arise and reinforce the idea that backpacking is a masculine pursuit.Subscribe to JOREL
Women's Perceptions of Barriers and Facilitators to Vaginal Birth After Cesarean in the United States: An Integrative Review

Introduction The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize the literature on women's perceived barriers and facilitators to achieving a vaginal birth after cesarean. Methods A search of Scopus and PubMed databases and relevant citations from 2000 to 2018 was conducted to identify resources meeting inclusion criteria. Conclusion drawing and verification were completed using data displays, data analysis, and comparison. Results Sixteen resources met inclusion criteria. Factors identified by women with a history of cesarean that act as facilitators or barriers to achieving a vaginal birth after cesarean included (1) individual factors (knowledge, body, and psychological), (2) social factors (culture and social support), and (3) systemic factors (perinatal care provider, health system, and financial). Some factors related to barriers and facilitators reflected opposing aspects of the same phenomenon on a continuum. Discussion Enhancing facilitators identified by women, while addressing perceived barriers, may increase access to labor after cesarean for women in the United States. Increasing access to labor after cesarean may subsequently improve women's experiences of care and decrease the US cesarean rate, positively affecting individual health outcomes and overall health of childbearing women in the United States.
Biomaterials-Based Model Systems to Study Tumor–Microenvironment Interactions

Abstract Despite significant research into the mechanisms underlying cancer, clinical progress has been limited. This discrepancy is possibly due to a lack of model systems that allow studying tumor development and therapy responses under relevant microenvironmental conditions. To replicate the biological and physical characteristics of the tumor microenvironment in patients, biomaterials-based model systems have been developed from natural and (semi-)synthetic biomaterials. When combined with chemical modification or advanced fabrication techniques including 3D printing and microfabrication, biomaterials-based platforms can mimic tumor-specific extracellular matrix and cellular composition as well as aspects of cancer-related changes in tissue structure, interstitial pressure, and mechanics. This chapter outlines the biological, physical, and chemical design parameters intrinsic to the tumor microenvironment and describes examples of state-of-the-art, biomaterials-based model systems that simulate these characteristics. Ongoing development and adaptation of complex tumor models will further our understanding of the pathogenesis of cancer and contribute to the development of more efficacious therapies that help to manage this devastating disease.
Serum adiponectin among different stages of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that leads to micro and macrovascular complications. Nephropathy is the most common microvascular complication. For diagnosis of nephropathy in T2DM patients by using urinary albumin, this is not a sensitive and specific biomarker because it is elevated in other conditions. we aimed to evaluate the serum adiponectin for early detection of nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: A total of 60 subjects were included in the present study and further subdivided into 30 patients T2DM with normoalbuminuria, 30 patients with microalbuminuria. All the patients were included after obtaining institutional ethical permission and consent forms. Blood and urine samples were collected from all the subjects and proceed with further analysis. Appropriate statistical analyses were used for different types of data analysis. Results: Increased levels of FBS, PPBS, HbA1C and serum adiponectin were observed in two groups of T2DM patients. Statistically elevated levels of serum Urea, Creatinine and Uric acid levels were observed in patients T2DM with microalbuminuria when compared to T2DM with normoalbuminuria. The serum adiponectin was positively correlated with FBS, PPBS, HbA1C, Urea, Creatinine, Uric Acid and Urinary Albumin in patients with two groups of T2DM. Conclusion: This study concluded that measuring the serum adiponectin levels may be useful for the early detection of nephropathy in patients with T2DM.
Value representation in the monkey hippocampus

The hippocampus is thought to form cognitive maps across different domains of experience, including space and time. Recent work by Knudsen and Wallis identifies a map of abstract value space in the monkey hippocampus. We consider how these abstract variables might contribute to a comprehensive hippocampal representation of ongoing experience.
Finite symmetric integral relation algebras with no 3-cycles

The class of finite symmetric integral relation algebras with no 3-cycles is a particularly interesting and easily analyzable class of finite relation algebras. For example, it contains algebras that are not representable, algebras that are representable only on finite sets, algebras that are representable only on infinite sets, algebras that are representable on both finite and infinite sets, and there is an algorithm for determining which case holds.
A model for the thermo-oxidative degradation of polyimides

Polyimides, due to their superior mechanical behavior at high temperatures, are used in a variety of applications that include aerospace, automobile and electronic packaging industries, as matrices for composites, as adhesives etc. In this paper, we extend our previous model in S. Karra and K. Rajagopal (Mech. Mater. 43(1):54–61, 2011), to include thermo-oxidative degradation of these high temperature polyimides. Appropriate forms for the Helmholtz potential and the rate of dissipation are chosen to describe the degradation. The results for a specific boundary value problem, using our model, compares well with the experimental creep data for PMR-15 resin that is aged in air.
Teaching for Liberation: Critical Reflections in Teacher Education

In this article the author shares a critical reflection of his work as a teacher educator over the last five years teaching in both public and private universities in the U.S. Midwest. The author reflects on his work in a class called “Diversity in Education” over the course of two semesters as a way to trace the genealogy of a course that has emancipatory intent. The implications (tensions and contradictions) for this type of course in teacher education are discussed as are why critical pedagogical approaches and liberatory ways of thinking and knowing are fundamentally essential to and ethically necessary in teacher preparation. The author concludes by offering a pedagogy of resilience and radical hope that is fundamentally premised on the idea that intellectual work is meant to be liberationist, and the desire to connect teacher education to a larger political struggle.
Bipolar disorder not otherwise specified in relation to the bipolar spectrum

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical characteristics of patients who are diagnosed with bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (BPD NOS) and who are considered to represent part of the bipolar spectrum. The lifetime prevalence of BPD in the general population may be as high as 6% when the full spectrum of bipolar disorders is accounted for. Correct identification of true bipolar patients in clinical settings may result in more appropriate treatment. Our hypothesis was that patients with BPD NOS would be more similar to other bipolar patients than major depressive disorder (MDD) patients in terms of age of onset, history of suicidal behavior and family history of BPD. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review to extract and analyze data on the family history, disease course and clinical characteristics of 305 bipolar disorder I (BPD I), bipolar disorder II (BPD II), bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (BPD NOS) or major depressive disorder (MDD) patients who were then grouped by diagnosis for analysis. Nominal variables were compared between groups using chi-square tests and ANOVA was used to compare means between groups for continuous variables. Significant F values were followed by independent-samples t-tests. Results: Patients with BPD I, BPD II and BPD NOS were all found to have a significantly earlier mean age of onset of depression than MDD patients. A significantly higher incidence of bipolar illness in a first-degree relative was found in all BPD groups (27–32%) compared with MDD patients (11%). Only the BPD I group had a significantly higher rate of suicide attempts (42%), compared with the BPD NOS (17%) and MDD recurrent (16%) groups. Conclusions: Our data support the conclusions of others that an early age of onset and a positive family history of bipolar illness are associated not only with BPD I and II but also with ‘softer’ forms of bipolar illness, which DSM-IV classifies as BPD NOS and the current literature refers to as a category of ‘bipolar spectrum disorder’, albeit with varying proposed definitions and diagnostic criteria. Suicide attempt history may be more useful in identifying the severity of illness than distinguishing the bipolar spectrum from depressive disorders. Further research is needed to clearly define the boundaries of the bipolar spectrum.
Life in the Pueblo: Understanding the Past through Archaeology

Life in the Pueblo: Understanding the Past through Archaeology. Kathryn Kamp. Prospect Heights, IL: Waveland Press, 1998.224pp.
Tuberculosis of the cervix uteri

Abstract Tubereulosis of the cervix is very uncommon. Most cases are secondary infections, which are derived from primary foci elsewhere in the body. The literature on this subject has been partially reviewed. There are probably 300 cases which have been reported in the literature; of these, not more than 35 are primary tuberculous infections of the cervix. Biopsy is the only accurate method of diagnosing this lesion and of distinguishing it from cervical inflammations and carcinomas. Proper treatment appears usually to demand radical surgical procedures so as to insure the highest percentage of permanent cures. The only proved case of this disease which we have been able to find in our records is briefly reported.