cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deformation twinning in rolled WE43-T5 rare earth magnesium alloy: Influence on strain hardening and texture evolution

Abstract Insights from a detailed investigation into the anisotropic strain hardening, tension/compression yield asymmetry, and evolution of crystallographic texture of rolled WE43 rare earth magnesium alloy during quasi-static tension and compression at room temperature are presented in this paper. It is seen that WE43 exhibits monotonically falling normalized strain hardening rates during both tension and compression in multiple loading directions, which is unusual for Mg alloys. Moreover, the difference in strain hardening in tension and compression subsequent to initial yield is observed to be very small and, as a result, the tension/compression asymmetry is not pronounced. Nevertheless, crystallographic texture evolves substantially, where crystals before deformation oriented with their crystallographic c-axis parallel with the normal direction (ND) and slightly tilted towards the rolling direction (RD) of the plate reorient their c-axis nearly parallel to the compression direction for every testing direction. Amount of deformation twinning in WE43 with plastic strain is quantified here for the first time and correlated with the above-described aspects of plastic deformation and texture evolution. In doing so, we confirm that the 10 1 ¯ 2 " open=" 1 ¯ 011 twin is the preferred extension twin in WE43 just like in many Mg alloys. Besides, we find a substantial activity of another c-axis extension twinning mode 11 2 ¯ 1 " open=" 1 ¯ 1 ¯ 26 in WE43, which is another unusual observation for Mg alloys. Activity of the c-axis contraction twins was found to be negligible. The falling strain hardening rates in WE43 are rationalized here to be a consequence of: (1) modest texture hardening because the activation stress for pyramidal slip systems is similar in magnitude to those of basal and prismatic slip systems, (2) small Hall-Petch-like hardening effect due to extension twinning because of their transmissivity to slip and rapid growth, and (3) negligible Hall-Petch-like hardening effect due to contraction twinning because of their small activity.
Windmills, yardsticks and galaxies

It was a pleasure to receive for review a light-weight, compact, well bound, inexpensive book – with the promising title Measuring the Universe – by Kitty Ferguson, an author known for her biographical and philosophical writings. The book begins with a delightful prologue in which the author describes her childhood experience of learning how to measure the height of a windmill by ingenuity alone – tackling the problem by indirect means rather than by physically reaching the top of the windmill.
On the exceptional time-on-stream stability of HZSM-12 zeolite: relation between zeolite pore structure and activity

ZSM-12 and several other 12-membered ring large-pore zeolites have been tested for the reforming of naphthenic hydrocarbon mixtures. It was found that ZSM-12 possesses a surprisingly higher coking resistance than other large pore zeolites tested such as USY, L-zeolite, mordenite, and β=zeolite for reforming of hydrocarbon mixtures. This superior performance is due to the unique non-interconnecting tubular-like linear channels of ZSM-12, which do not allow trapping/accumulation of coking precursors. ZSM-12 zeolite also demonstrated excellent structural stability even under severe acid dealumination. From this work, we found that the decrease of the aluminum content of a zeolite is not sufficient to ensure low rates of coke deposition. We also concluded that zeolites with channel intersections (cavities) of comparable size with the zeolite apertures do not favor coke formation. For these types of zeolites the strong acid sites carry out other acid-catalyzed reactions, rather than forming coke. In contrast, zeolites with relatively large supercages are inherently favorable to coking reactions, which in turn lead to the fast deactivation. The appropriate combination of the zeolite pore structure and acidity (controlled via dealumination) showed superior TOS behavior (time-stable activity and product selectivities). For zeolites which are susceptible to coking due to pore structure, the increase of the Bronsted acid strength results in fast deactivation. Contrary to what one would commonly expect and previous reports, we found that one-dimensional zeolites, such as, ZSM-12, can exhibit significantly higher tolerance to coking than multidirectional zeolites.
Màquines de diversió, màquines de problemes

Aquest article es una contribucio a la situacio cultural i historica del joc electronic. La seva premissa basica es, almenys aparentment, senzilla: els jocs electronics no van apareixer del no-res; tenen uns antecedents culturals que s'han d'excavar. La literatura existent sobre la historia dels videojocs ha fet poca cosa per a aconseguir aquest objectiu. En realitat, la historia sovint s'explica d'una manera especialment uniforme, construida entorn de les mateixes fites, avencos i pares creadors (i no diuen res de les mares!). En aquest article excavare algunes questions culturals i historiques rellevants per a una avaluacio critica de l'aparicio del joc com a mitja interactiu. Posare un emfasi especial en els antecedents dels joc electronics com a manifestacio de la relacio entre esser huma i maquina. Tot i que soc plenament conscient de la complexitat dels jocs electronics com a hibrid cultural, he decidit no tractar alguns dels seus «ingredients» historics com les raons de les maneres anteriors de jugar ni les tradicions orals i literaries de la narracio d'histories. En la seccio final reflectire la importancia d'aquestes troballes "arqueologiques dels mitjans" per a la cultura mediatica contemporania i el joc electronic en particular, assenyalant els vincles connectors de l'estructura de la cultura del segle xx. Text complet (PDF) Node complet (PDF)
Programming and Execution

Converting modeling logic as in Chapter 2 into executable code is the next step in simulation program development. To this logic must be added all the housekeeping functions of assigning values to input parameters and arranging for the desired output to emerge at the end of program execution. This chapter illustrates these steps, first using the SIMSCRIPT II.5 simulation programming language and then the Arena general-purpose simulation system based on the SIMAN simulation language. It also describes how the resulting programs are executed and displays their output.
A Comparative Study of Target Localization Methods for Large GDOP

In this chapter, we present a comparative study on two algorithms to localize ground targets using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): an angle-of-arrival (AOA) emitter-location algorithm using triangulation techniques and an angle-rate algorithm. In particular, we focus on the performance of the two algorithms locating targets when a sensor platform is under a large Geographic Dilution of Precision (GDOP) condition. The large GDOP condition occurs when a target is seen by a sensor platform within a small included angle; the total included angle between Line-Of-Bearings (LOBs) is less than five degrees. The comparative study is a part of the United States Air Force Academy’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) research project to develop a group of cooperative UAVs to search, detect, and localize moving ground targets. The GDOP conditions limit the accuracy of the AOA triangulationemitter-location algorithm’s accuracy due to the resulting highly elliptical probable error. In such cases, angle-rate algorithms should be used for better localization accuracy. Usually, a large GDOP condition is encountered during two important operational applications: (1) tasks that use slow-moving-sensor platforms, such as a small UAV, and (2) tasks involving short-up-time emitters that typically are not transmitting signals long enough for any sensor platform to open more than a small total included angle. We investigate the performance of the two algorithms as we vary the included angle for the sensor platform. The performances of angle-rate and triangulation algorithms are compared via MATLAB simulation to determine the preferred regions of operation.
Mammalian kinetochores count attached microtubules in a sensitive and switch-like manner to control cell cycle progression

The Spindle Assembly Checkpoint (SAC) maintains genomic integrity by preventing anaphase until all kinetochores attach to the spindle. What specific signals are required for SAC satisfaction at mammalian kinetochores, and in what magnitude, are not well understood and central to understanding SAC signal processing and function. Here, we directly and independently tune candidate input signals - spindle forces and Hec1-microtubule binding - and map SAC outputs. By detaching microtubules from the spindle, we first demonstrate that the SAC does not respond to changes in spindle pulling forces. We then tune and fix the fraction of Hec1 molecules capable of microtubule binding, and interpret SAC output changes as coming from changes in binding, and not spindle forces. While the speed of satisfaction reduces with fewer attached microtubules, the kinetochore turns off the SAC even with few - approximately four - such microtubules. Thus, the mammalian kinetochore responds specifically to microtubule binding, and does so as a single, switch-like, sensitive unit. This may allow the kinetochore to rapidly react to attachments and maintain a robust response despite dynamic microtubule numbers.
American Ancestry Is a Risk Factor for Suspected Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Hispanic/Latino Adults

Background & Aims Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) disproportionally affects Hispanic/Latino populations. However, the magnitude varies among Hispanic/Latino ethnic groups. We investigated the mechanisms of these disparities. Methods We examined associations of NAFLD-associated genetic variants and continental ancestry with suspected NAFLD, levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and liver fibrosis using data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos—a population-based study of Hispanic/Latino adults in the United States. We evaluated data from 16,415 Hispanic/Latino adults in 4 cities from 2008 through 2011. Subjects suspected of having NAFLD or liver fibrosis were identified based on unexplained increases in levels of aminotransferases and FIB-4 score, respectively. Results Among the 9342 participants with available genetic and aminotransferase data, the PNPLA3 G allele (odds ratio [OR], 1.53; 95% CI, 1.41–1.66), TM6SF2 T allele (OR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.20–1.67), and PPP1R3B G allele (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.06–1.28) were associated with suspected NAFLD. PNPLA3 G was also associated with increased levels of ALT, except in participants with Dominican and South American backgrounds, and with liver fibrosis. The frequency of PNPLA3 G was high (41%) and TM6SF2 T (5%) was low in Hispanic/Latinos. PNPLA3 G frequency differed among Hispanic background groups with the highest proportion in Mexicans (52%) and the lowest proportion in Dominicans (23%). After adjustment for demographic, clinical, and behavioral factors, as well as PNPLA3 G, TM6SF2 T, and PPP1R3B G, American ancestry had a positive association with level of ALT (r = 6.61%; P Conclusions American ancestry and PNPLA3 G are independent predictors of ALT levels in US Hispanic/Latinos and may in part explain NAFLD disparities in US Hispanic/Latinos.
The 1998 Good Friday (Belfast) Agreement Referendums in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland

The Agreement that emerged from the multi-party talks in Belfast on Good Friday 1998 was put to referendums on 22 May 1998 in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. It was approved by 71% in Northern Ireland and 94% in the Republic of Ireland. This chapter considers the reasoning behind the simultaneous referendums and what was at stake in the 1998 Agreement being voted on. It also compares the different experiences of the two referendums, including in the structures, funding and fallout of the different campaigns. It concludes by considering the fact that the 1998 Agreement includes provision for further concurrent referendums in the future, namely on whether Northern Ireland should become part of a united Ireland.
Electricity market deregulation and environmental regulation: Evidence from U.S. nuclear power

Abstract Nuclear power in the United States provides substantial electricity supply and thus this study replicates the finding in Davis and Wolfram (2012) that divestiture leads to a statistically significant and economically meaningful increase in nuclear power reactor output. Divestiture is the sale of generating assets from regulated, investor-owned utilities to independent power producers with the profit motive to increase output. The divestiture effect result is robust to specification choice and testing with an extended dataset containing additional years of observations. This study also finds the new result that reactor output increases via an indirect environmental policy mechanism. The environmental regulations considered occurred contemporaneously to the divestitures and thus provides a further robustness check on the divestiture effect result.
Design and Implementation of An Efficient Multipath AODV Routing Algorithm for MANETs

A Mobile Ad-hoc Network (MANET) is a collection of nodes that communicate with each other wirelessly without any central support or conventional structure. The transmission of data packets over wireless channels in MANETs helps to maintain communication. Ad-hoc On-Demand Distance Vector Routing is a reactive routing protocol associated with MANET which creates a route to destination by broadcasting route request packets through the entire network. A link failure in this type of protocol causes the source to flood the network with these Route Request packets that leads to congestion in the network and performance degradation. This paper proposes an Efficient Multipath AODV routing algorithm that determines if a node in a network is relaying or is silent in the process of route discovery to send data packets from the source to destination. Simulation results show the proposed routing algorithm controls congestion and enhances performance in the network as not all network nodes have to participate in the route discovery for a particular source-destination pair.
Intervention in Science Degradation: Understanding the Work of Stigma

The research paper begins by explaining the disciplinary surplus of a transformative approach to research, which aims at a minimalist intervention in the power relations of science. Methodologically, the paper combines self-positioning, auto-ethnographic notes, a critical analysis of power relations, semiotics, and critical discourse analysis. The main subject of its research, stigma and stigmatisation, is defined through the triad ‘freedom of expression – discrimination – protection against incitement to hatred’. The incitement to hatred, synonymous with hate speech, may be traced in stigmatisation, which serves as a tool of discrimination and exclusion. The starting-point of an argument urging the need for individual and collective responsibility for the lack of social bond (the lack which partly results from stigma as an element of hate speech) is a grasp of the role of political bipolarity. Another conceptualisation, important for the elaboration of this theme, is derived from classic liberal defence of freedom of expression, and thus of the human rights of women (John S. Mill and Harriet Taylor Mill). This defence is pitted against the ‘normal’, ‘mundane’. In Goffman’s reading of stigma, too, the ‘normal’ in socio-cultural life is perceived as destructive of human equality. In the field of modern scientific research, the opposite of the ‘normal’ is the stigma of conflict, that is, maladjustment. In some cases it is even actual or alleged political orientation that becomes a stigma, which points to the political marking of scientific hierarchies and to the formation of a sector margin. The paper concludes with a strategic option at the level of subjectivity: subjectivity may be processed by our adopting the stigma and by expressing the will to deconstruct the silence which permits an illegitimate exercise of power. In order to transform the mechanisms of scientific authorities, it is necessary to establish a functional instance for the enforcement of ethical science and research integrity.
The Timing of Corticosteroid Injections after Shoulder Arthroscopy Affects Postoperative Infection Risk

Objectives:To examine the association between the timing of post-operative corticosteroid injections with rates of post-operative infection in arthroscopic shoulder procedures.Methods:Private-payer...
MEK inhibition remodels the active chromatin landscape and induces SOX10 genomic recruitment in BRAF(V600E) mutant melanoma cells.

The MAPK/ERK signaling pathway is an essential regulator of numerous cell processes that are crucial for normal development as well as cancer progression. While much is known regarding MAPK/ERK signal conveyance from the cell membrane to the nucleus, the transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms that govern gene expression downstream of MAPK signaling are not fully elucidated. This study employed an integrated epigenome analysis approach to interrogate the effects of MAPK/ERK pathway inhibition on the global transcriptome, the active chromatin landscape, and protein–DNA interactions in 501mel melanoma cells. Treatment of these cells with the small-molecule MEK inhibitor AZD6244 induces hyperpigmentation, widespread gene expression changes including alteration of genes linked to pigmentation, and extensive epigenomic reprogramming of transcriptionally distinct regulatory regions associated with the active chromatin mark H3K27ac. Regulatory regions with differentially acetylated H3K27ac regions following AZD6244 treatment are enriched in transcription factor binding motifs of ETV/ETS and ATF family members as well as the lineage-determining factors MITF and SOX10. H3K27ac-dense enhancer clusters known as super-enhancers show similar transcription factor motif enrichment, and furthermore, these super-enhancers are associated with genes encoding MITF, SOX10, and ETV/ETS proteins. Along with genome-wide resetting of the active enhancer landscape, MEK inhibition also results in widespread SOX10 recruitment throughout the genome, including increased SOX10 binding density at H3K27ac-marked enhancers. Importantly, these MEK inhibitor-responsive enhancers marked by H3K27ac and occupied by SOX10 are located near melanocyte lineage-specific and pigmentation genes and overlap numerous human SNPs associated with pigmentation and melanoma phenotypes, highlighting the variants located within these regions for prioritization in future studies. These results reveal the epigenetic reprogramming underlying the re-activation of melanocyte pigmentation and developmental transcriptional programs in 501mel cells in response to MEK inhibition and suggest extensive involvement of a MEK-SOX10 axis in the regulation of these processes. The dynamic chromatin changes identified here provide a rich genomic resource for further analyses of the molecular mechanisms governing the MAPK pathway in pigmentation- and melanocyte-associated diseases.
Finding the Culprit: Combining Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging With Optical Coherence Tomography.

A 71-year-old man presented with non–ST-segment acute myocardial infarction (MI) and a rise in troponin I from 0.013 to 6.882 ng/ml (upper limit of normal 0.034 ng/ml). He had a history of prior coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) with a left internal mammary artery to the left anterior
Blast response of a thin oriented strand board wall

Abstract There has been a remarkable increase in the worldwide number of suicide bombing attacks in recent years. These attacks have left numerous victims as well as economic and psychological impacts on targeted locations. Developing new approaches to designing and constructing blast protection wall systems is an ever pressing need to partially mitigate the damaging effects of blast loadings. Several applications of simple blast protection wall systems have been considered for military purposes, but far fewer studies exist for non-military applications. The current study evaluates the overall performance of a thin oriented strand board (OSB) cantilever wall in response to the blast energy from explosive detonations. The study presents the results of open-space blast tests to measure the blast wave pressure in free air (without wall), and blast pressure (behind wall) at specified standoff distances. For the OSB response, a 3D dynamic finite element model was created using ABAQUS/Explicit software combined with the ConWep blast model to represent wall-blast wave interactions in free air to compare with the blast test results. Reductions in blast pressure behind the OSB wall of over 20 percent were observed. Good agreement between the test results and the numerical predictions was also found. The results of this work indicate the potential of using simple blast walls to partially mitigate blast loading at extremely low cost and minimal installation effort.
Damage-tolerant, corrosion-resistant high entropy alloy with high strength and ductility by laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing

Abstract Use of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing (AM) in structural applications requires development of a) damage-tolerant alloys (alloys that exhibit high strength and ductility despite the presence of pores and/or microcracks), and b) corrosion resistant alloys. High entropy alloys (HEAs) offer abundant alloy design space that can be used to tune deformation mechanisms and address both these challenges effectively. In line with that, transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) assisted Fe38.5Mn20Co20Cr15Si5Cu1.5 HEA (Cu-HEA) was printed with LPBF-AM. Despite the presence of 1.5 vol. % of microcracks and pores, as-built Cu-HEA exhibits tensile strength of ∼1235 MPa (highest among as-built HEAs) and ductility of ∼17.2 %, thus displaying damage-tolerant behavior. Additionally, as-built Cu-HEA exhibits a steeper polarization slope as compared to SS 17-4 PH and as-cast Cu-HEA, thus exhibiting higher passivation tendency. These findings demonstrate an effective strategy for developing damage-tolerant anticorrosive materials for LPBF-AM.
Electrochemical CO2 reduction to methane with remarkably high Faradaic efficiency in the presence of a proton permeable membrane

Nafion is a widely used fluoropolymer that is often mixed with electrocatalysts to facilitate proton transport. In contrast to these Nafion-catalyst composites, this work studies electrodes covered by Nafion overlayers for the CO2 reduction reaction. By varying the thickness, substrates, and voltage, we perform a detailed study of the effect of Nafion overlayers on metal and carbon mesh electrodes for CO2 reduction. Depending on the thickness of the Nafion membrane, CO2 reduction occurs at either the polymer–electrolyte interface or electrode–polymer interface. A Nafion overlayer of 15 μm on a Cu electrode enables an extraordinarily high yield of CH4 production (88% Faradaic efficiency) at a low overpotential (540 mV) via the stabilization of metal-bound CO intermediates. To the best of our knowledge, this yield is the highest for electrocatalytic CO2 reduction to CH4 production at room temperature reported.
Surgical Management of Shoulder and Knee Instability in Patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Joint Hypermobility Syndrome

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a hereditary disorder of the connective tissue, which has been classified into numerous subtypes over the years. EDS is generally characterized by hyperextensible skin, hypermobile joints, and tissue fragility. According to the 2017 International Classification of EDS, 13 subtypes of EDS have been recognized. The majority of genes involved in EDS are either collagen-encoding genes or genes encoding collagen-modifying enzymes. Orthopedic surgeons most commonly encounter patients with the hypermobile type EDS (hEDS), who present with signs and symptoms of hypermobility and/or instability in one or more joints. Patients with joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) might also present with similar symptomatology. This article will focus on the surgical management of patients with knee or shoulder abnormalities related to hEDS/JHS.
Trans-anastomotic tube feeding in the management of congenital duodenal obstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Feed intolerance is a common problem in neonates with congenital duodenal obstruction (CDO). Some surgeons insert trans-anastomotic tubes (TAT) to facilitate feed tolerance. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TATs in CDO. Medline, EmBase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library were searched till July 2020. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I tool. Meta-analysis was conducted using Random Effects Model. No randomized controlled trials addressing the question were identified. In the 6 included observational studies, 96 infants underwent intraoperative TAT placement and 117 did not. Four studies reported benefits of TAT such as early attainment of full feeds and decreased need for parenteral nutrition. Two studies reported better outcomes in the no-TAT group. Accidental removal of TAT without clinical harm was reported in three studies [5/37 (14%), 4/17 (23%), and 2/4 (50%)]. Overall meta-analysis found no differences between the groups on any outcome. However, sensitivity analysis after excluding two studies with high risk of bias found that TAT tubes are associated with shorter duration of PN and shorter time to full enteral feeds. GRADE of evidence was very low for all outcomes. Evidence is limited regarding the efficacy and safety of intraoperative TAT placement in neonates with CDO. Well-designed RCTs are needed to address the issue definitively.
Movimientos migratorios en el s. XXI

The state and characteristics of Migration, in a World increasingly influenced by globalizing effects, makes us reflect on the opportunities and challenges that migratory movements pose to us. Each time, there is an increase in the number of migrants, with modalities and operational mode, which intensifies, with the support of different social networks. This situation is exacerbated, due to the global health crisis, represented by the COVID -19 virus, as well as due to the new migratory flows linked to human displacement for socio-economic reasons, serious human rights violations and also, as result of the effects of climate change.
Humeral position after reverse shoulder arthroplasty as measured by lateralization and distalization angles and association with acromial stress fracture; a case-control study

Abstract Background Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty (RSA) has become increasingly utilized in the surgical management for a growing number of indications in increasingly younger and active populations. The complication of Acromial Stress Fracture (ASF) has been described in various patient groups after RSA. Patients who experience ASF after RSA report worse clinical outcomes. Biomechanical studies and some clinical studies have implicated the degree of lateralization and distalization of the humerus as factors associated with development of ASF. Most prior studies utilize scalar or linear methods to measure humeral position following RSA. These scalar measurements do not account for the relative effects of variances in patient stature. Lateralization Shoulder Angle (LSA) and Distalization Shoulder Angle (DSA) are angular methods that have been described as a reproducible assessment of humeral position while controlling for variance in patient stature. Methods A case-control study was performed where cases of ASF after RSA were identified after a retrospective review of all reverse shoulder arthroplasty cases at a single institution using a single implant type. A 1:3 case-control matching scheme was implemented based on age and gender. All surgeries were performed by one of 4 fellowship-trained Shoulder and Elbow surgeons. Preoperative and Postoperative radiographs were assessed and humeral position was measured using LSA and DSA. A Mixed Linear model was utilized to test the difference in means between cases and controls. Results Between January 2012 and December 2015, 689 patients underwent primary RSA. 29 patients (4.2%) sustained acromial stress fracture. Acromial stress fracture occurred at a mean of 7.6 months after surgery (range 1.0-36.8 months). According to the Levy classification, 19 were type 1 fractures, 9 were type 2 and 1 was type 3. An additional 24 patients (3.5%) patients were noted to have experience an acromial stress reaction without evidence for fracture. Mean change in LSA (from preoperative to postoperative) was -19.78 o (SE 2.82) in cases (net medialization) and -12.18 o (SE 1.63) in controls (P= .02). The mean change in DSA was 36.40 o (SE 2.09) in cases and 31.82° (SE 1.21) in controls (P= .06) Conclusion Higher preoperative LSA (humeral lateralization) and greater decrease of LSA (greater net medialization) after surgery were noted to have an association with ASF. Humeral position after RSA as measured by DSA was not associated with radiographically evident ASF in this case-control study controlling for age and gender. Level of Evidence Level III
Minority Stress and Nicotine Use and Dependence among Sexual Minority Youth.

Sexual minority youth (SMY), especially those who are plurisexual (e.g. bisexual, pansexual, queer), are more likely to use nicotine or develop nicotine dependence than their heterosexual peers, and this disparity is often attributed to minority stress (e.g. discrimination). This study tested the association between minority stress and nicotine use and dependence among SMY and examined the moderating role of impulsivity. A sample of SMY (N = 85; aged 14-19; 80.6% White; 80% plurisexual) who were active nicotine users were recruited from the community. Results indicated that greater discrimination experiences were associated with more nicotine use days and higher nicotine dependence symptoms. However, impulsivity did not moderate the relationship between discrimination and nicotine use or dependence. These results highlight the potential importance of minority stress in understanding SMY's risk for nicotine use and dependence. This research suggests the need for identifying factors that could place some SMY at greater risk for nicotine use and dependence and points to potential clinical implications for nicotine cessation interventions for SMY.
Myofunctional training with negative airway pressure for obstructive sleep apnea: a prospective non-randomized cohort feasibility study

Background: Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT), for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is emerging with recognition of specific phenotypes. Since many OSA sufferers are already familiar with positive airway pressure machines, we designed an OMT protocol involving the modification of such a machine to deliver negative airway pressure. We hypothesized that a three-month trial of using this protocol while awake would reduce the signs and symptoms of OSA. Methods : Fifteen adults with OSA enrolled for 30-minute sessions/three days a week for a three-month trial of “upper airway muscle physical therapy” while awake. Overnight sleep studies were performed before and after the intervention to determine each subject’s apnea hypopnea index (AHI), the primary outcome measure. Negative airway pressure application was determined by estimation of each subject’s one-repetition maximum (an exercise physiology measure of strength capacity). Exercise sessions consisted of subjects breathing against this pressure for a series of repetitions, and sets. Results : While the mean post study AHI was slightly improved (-4.3 ± 12.0 [ -10.9, 2.3], mean ± standard deviation, 95% confidence interval), it was not statistically significant. The results were similar when the AHI was divided by the sleep state (REM vs. non-REM). The nadir saturation was also essentially unchanged. The eight subjects with mild or moderate OSA (AHI < 30) showed similar results. Conclusions : Though there was no significant reduction in AHI in this small cohort, the methods elucidate a new daytime use for a machine with which many OSA sufferers are familiar. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02109731 (registered on April 10 th 2015)
In Doubt: The Psychology of the Criminal Justice Process

The criminal justice process is unavoidably human. Police detectives, witnesses, suspects, and victims shape the course of investigations, while prosecutors, defense attorneys, jurors, and judges affect the outcome of adjudication. In this sweeping review of psychological research, Dan Simon shows how flawed investigations can produce erroneous evidence and why well-meaning juries send innocent people to prison and set the guilty free. The investigator's task is genuinely difficult and prone to bias. This often leads investigators to draw faulty conclusions, assess suspects' truthfulness incorrectly, and conduct coercive interrogations that can lead to false confessions. Eyewitnesses' identification of perpetrators and detailed recollections of criminal events rely on cognitive processes that are often mistaken and can easily be skewed by the investigative procedures used. In the courtroom, jurors and judges are ill-equipped to assess the accuracy of testimony, especially in the face of the heavy-handed rhetoric and strong emotions that crimes arouse. Simon offers an array of feasible ways to improve the accuracy of criminal investigations and trials. While the limitations of human cognition will always be an obstacle, these reforms can enhance the criminal justice system's ability to decide correctly whom to release and whom to punish.
Cortical Learning via Prediction

What is the mechanism of learning in the brain? Despite breathtaking advances in neuroscience, and in machine learning, we do not seem close to an answer. Using Valiant’s neuronal model as a foundation, we introduce PJOIN (for “predictive join”), a primitive that combines association and prediction. We show that PJOIN can be implemented naturally in Valiant’s conservative, formal model of cortical computation. Using PJOIN — and almost nothing else — we give a simple algorithm for unsupervised learning of arbitrary ensembles of binary patterns (solving an open problem in Valiant’s work). This algorithm relies crucially on prediction, and entails significant downward traffic (“feedback”) while parsing stimuli. Prediction and feedback are well-known features of neural cognition and, as far as we know, this is the first theoretical prediction of their essential role in learning.
Synthesis of Volcano Monitoring

Abstract This chapter synthesizes the monitoring of active volcanoes using a wide range of techniques and instrumentation. We cover definitions, concepts of instrument design and use, patterns and processes that occur before, during, and after eruptions. Ideas, trends, and the interplay between monitoring and research are discussed for both under-monitored and well-monitored “laboratory volcanoes,” including a recent case history of the 2010 eruption of Merapi Volcano, Indonesia. We conclude with a discussion of: the importance of using multiple techniques and databases in forecasting, the reliability of forecasts, and future directions in volcano monitoring.
Factors Influencing Design of SMA Actuators

Given the complex nonlinear nature of SMA responses, understanding their coupled thermomechanical responses of different components has been of significant interest for both researchers and application developers.
Jurisdiction and the Enforcement of Foreign Judgments

In April 2012, the Supreme Court of Canada released its decision in what has become the pivotal case on personal jurisdiction in Canada, Van Breda v. Club Resorts Ltd. In Van Breda, the Court laid out a new framework for, and defined more precisely the content of, the “real and substantial connection” test that governs the assertion of jurisdiction over ex juris defendants. Specifically, the Court created four presumptive connecting factors that courts are to use in jurisdictional determinations. The presumptive connecting factors approach to jurisdiction was intended to increase certainty and predictability in jurisdictional determinations. One issue that was alluded to, but ultimately left unanswered, by the Supreme Court in Van Breda was what effect the new presumptive factors framework for the real and substantial connection test had on the enforcement of judgments. Since the Supreme Court’s seminal decision in Morguard Investments Ltd. v. De Savoye in 1990, it is well established law that the real and substantial connection test for jurisdiction simpliciter is intended to be “correlated” with the real and substantial connection test used as a predicate for enforcing foreign judgments. Does this mean that courts are now supposed to use the new Van Breda framework for jurisdiction simpliciter in the judgment enforcement context? This article argues that the real and substantial connection framework established by the Court in Van Breda for jurisdiction simpliciter should not be exported outside of the particular context in which it was developed. The Van Breda approach to jurisdiction simpliciter, although seemingly straightforward, is actually a blunt tool for assessing jurisdiction – and any concerns with its application would only be magnified if applied to the enforcement of foreign judgments.
Transcription of the lac Operon of Escherichia coli

The effects of induction and of transient and catabolite repression on lac-specific RNA in cells of Escherichia coli were investigated. The rate of lac-specific RNA synthesis increases linearly for 3 min after induction and then becomes constant. The accumulation of RNA complementary to the promoter proximal lac Z gene begins before accumulation of RNA complementary to the promoter distal lac Y-A genes. When transient repression is imposed upon the cells by the addition of glucose, the lac Z-specific RNA begins to decay before the lac Y-A-specific RNA. Catabolite repression reduces the rate of formation of lac-specific RNA relative to the rate of formation of bulk RNA. Both lac Z-specific RNA and lac Y-A-specific RNA are equally affected. These results confirm the concept that the sole effect of transient repression and of catabolite repression is the inhibition of the initiation of RNA synthesis at the lac promoter site.
Integrating in-situ chemical sampling with AUV control systems

The utility of autonomous underwater vehicles continues to expand as powerful new in-situ sensor technologies are developed for AUV operation. However, these analytical sensors are typically configured to collect and log data as independent payloads without the benefit of feedback from other payload sensors or vehicle navigation systems. This paper explores conceptual frameworks for integrating payload sensors in various degrees of real-time data assimilation and adaptive operation. Several of the challenges to coupling chemical sensor payloads in closed-loop architecture with acoustic, visual and navigation control systems are examined. Specific examples are provided as to how information sharing and coupled decision making processes may improve payload data interpretation and validation as well as increase the overall efficiency of AUV mission strategies. Data is presented from deployments of the Seabed submersible, a passively stable, hover-capable AUV designed for operation to 2000 meters. During these deployments the Seabed vehicle was arrayed with a payload of optical, acoustic, and chemical sensors to identify and map structures associated with ocean bottom methane sources on the Atlantic slope of North America. Results from these deployments are discussed and a collection of general principles is suggested for integration of biological and chemical sensors as payload with active feedback aboard AUVs. The authors conclude with suggestions for possible scientific applications that can be addressed using levels of technology presently available as well as how incremental advancements in AUV payload integration will present profound new opportunities to explore and understand our world.
Optimizing a Unimodal Response Function for Binary Variables

Several allocation rules are examined for the problem of optimizing a response function for a set of Bernoulli populations, where the population means are assumed to have a strict unimodal structure. This problem arises in dose response settings in clinical trials. The designs are evaluated both on their efficiency in identifying a good population at the end of the experiment, and in their efficiency in sampling from good populations during the trial. A new design, that adapts multi-arm bandit strategies to this unimodal structure, is shown to be superior to the designs previously proposed. The bandit design utilizes approximate Gittin’s indices and shape constrained regression.
Design optimization of a low-power micromachined fluxgate sensor using localized core saturation method

This paper presents the design optimization of a micromachined ring-type fluxgate sensor with localized saturation core to obtain low power consumption. The design optimization has been performed for finding a model with lowest excitation current, so the function of fluxgate can be achieved with low power consumption. The optimized model exhibits an excitation current of 100 mA, sensitivity of 540 V/T at 60 muT, and span of ~300 muT, with a power consumption of 25 mW
Testis Development and Fertility Potential in Boys with Klinefelter Syndrome

Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is the leading genetic cause of primary hypogonadism and infertility in men. The clinical phenotype has expanded beyond the original description of infertility, small testes, and gynecomastia. Animal models, epidemiologic studies, and clinical research of male subjects with KS throughout the lifespan have allowed the better characterization of the variable phenotype of this condition. This review provides an overview on what is known of the epidemiology, clinical features, and pathophysiology of KS, followed by a more focused discussion of testicular development and the clinical management of hypogonadism and fertility in boys and men with KS.
A comparison of rote and meaningful learning of connected meaningful material

This study involved a comparison of rote and connected learning of meaningful material. A 200-word passage was learned under either rote or meaningful instructions. Factor-analytic treatment of the intercorrelated dependent variable measures resulted in two factors. The first factor, represented by such measures as number of words or number of letters was labelled a quantitative dimension. The second factor, represented by such measures as idea units and sequences was labelled an organizational dimension. It was found that judges were able to employ different standards when asked to judge accuracy of recall on a word-for-word basis, and on the basis of the main ideas.
Novel water clusters in the crystalline state: Structures of a symmetrical, cyclic hexamer and an 'opened-cube' octamer

Six- and eight-membered hydrogen-bonded water clusters of novel structure types have been found in crystalline hydrates.
Contact Sensitivity and Immunologic Tolerance in Germfree Guinea Pigs

SummaryThe poorly developed lymphoid system of germfree guinea pigs did not prevent the development of contact sensitivity and immunologic tolerance to two simple chemicals, dinitrochlorbenzene and dinitrothiocyanatebenzene. Germfree animals responded in a manner similar to conventionally reared animals when these chemicals were applied to the skin or injected in complete Freund's adjuvant.We thank Mr. Michael Hooton for his technical assistance and Miss Theresa Wilson for carrying out the serum protein electrophoreses.
Theoretical Aspects of Modeling Backscattering by Cirrus Ice Particles at Millimeter Wavelengths

Abstract This research attempts to understand how nonspherical ice particles backscatter electromagnetic radiation at millimetric wavelengths. The discrete dipole approximation (DDA) is employed to examine backscattering by single particles to (i) explore the limits of the Rayleigh approximation and (ii) test the use and validity of spheroidal models to model semirealistic cirrus particles. It is shown that spheroids are reasonable models of cirrus ice particles at wavelengths of 3 and 8 mm. Furthermore, with careful consideration of optical size it is possible to exploit the Rayleigh approximation for spheroids under many circumstances. The sensitivity of backscattered radiation to variations in microphysical properties is examined, based on DDA calculations for ensembles of ice particles. The most important factor in the ice crystal size distribution is found to be the median diameter (Dm) of the ice crystal volume distribution. In particular, for values of Dm typical of cirrus, the contribution of crys...
Second Law Analysis and Optimization of Organic Rankine Cycle

This paper presents a second law analysis and optimization for the use of Organic Rankine Cycle “ORC” to convert waste energy to power from low grade heat sources. The working fluids used in this study are organic substances which have a low boiling point and a low latent heat for using low grade waste heat sources. The organic working fluids under investigation are R134a and R113 and their results are compared with those of ammonia and water under similar operating conditions. A combined first and second law analysis is performed by varying some system operating parameters at various reference temperatures. Some of the results show that the efficiency of ORC is typically below 20% depending on the temperatures and matched working fluid. In addition, it has been found that organic working fluids are more suited for heat recovery than water for low temperature applications, which justifies the use of organic working fluids at the lower waste source temperatures.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Advantages of using a current-source for push-pull inverter in power supply applications

• BETTER UTILIZATION OF TRANSISTORS • BETTER UTILIZATION OF TRANSFORMERS • REDUCED EMI • LESS FILTERING REQUIRED • SIMPLIFIES SHORT CIRCUIT PROTECTION Conduction overlap and core saturation are problems that must be overcome with a voltage sourced inverter operating above 10kHz. Both of these problems are controlled when a current source is used for the inverter.
Extent and magnitude of copper contamination in marinas of the San Diego region, California, USA

Marinas are areas of special water quality concern because of the potential for pollutant accumulation within their protected waters. Perhaps the largest contaminant source to marinas is antifouling paints that leach copper to prevent the growth of encrusting organisms on vessel bottoms. Very little monitoring of marinas is typically conducted despite the potential environmental risk, particularly in the San Diego region of California, USA where as many as 17,000 recreational vessels are berthed. The objective of this study was twofold: (1) determine the extent and magnitude of dissolved copper concentrations in marinas throughout the San Diego region, and (2) determine if elevated copper concentrations in marinas of the San Diego region are resulting in adverse biological impacts. A probabilistic study design was used to sample water column copper concentrations and toxicity (using Mytilus galloprovincialis) at 30 stations. Results indicated that exceedence of state water quality objectives was widespread (86% of marina area), but that toxicity was much less prevalent (21% of marina area). Toxicity identification evaluations (TIEs) conducted at the most toxic sites indicated that toxicity was largely due to trace metals, most likely copper. Toxicity was reduced using TIE treatments that chelated trace metals such as cation exchange column, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and sodium thiosulfate (STS). Moreover, increasing dissolved copper concentrations correlated with increasing toxicity and these copper concentrations were high enough to account for virtually all of the observed toxicity.