cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lifetime socioeconomic position and twins' health: an analysis of 308 pairs of United States women twins.

Background Important controversies exist about the extent to which people’s health status as adults is shaped by their living conditions in early life compared to adulthood. These debates have important policy implications, and one obstacle to resolving them is the relative lack of sufficient high-quality data on childhood and adult socioeconomic position and adult health status. We accordingly compared the health status among monozygotic and dizygotic women twin pairs who lived together through childhood (until at least age 14) and subsequently were discordant or concordant on adult socioeconomic position. This comparison permitted us to ascertain the additional impact of adult experiences on adult health in a population matched on early life experiences. Methods and Findings Our study employed data from a cross-sectional survey and physical examinations of twins in a population-based twin registry, the Kaiser Permanente Women Twins Study Examination II, conducted in 1989 to 1990 in Oakland, California, United States. The study population was composed of 308 women twin pairs (58% monozygotic, 42% dizygotic); data were obtained on childhood and adult socioeconomic position and on blood pressure, cholesterol, post-load glucose, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, physical activity, and self-rated health. Health outcomes among adult women twin pairs who lived together through childhood varied by their subsequent adult occupational class. Cardiovascular factors overall differed more among monozygotic twin pairs that were discordant compared to concordant on occupational class. Moreover, among the monozygotic twins discordant on adult occupational class, the working class twin fared worse and, compared to her professional twin, on average had significantly higher systolic blood pressure (mean matched difference ! 4.54 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.10‐8.97), diastolic blood pressure (mean matched difference! 3.80 mm Hg; 95% CI, 0.44‐7.17), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (mean matched difference! 7.82 mg/dl; 95% CI, 1.07‐14.57). By contrast, no such differences were evident for analyses based on educational attainment, which does not capture post-education socioeconomic position.
PD-1 Restrains Radiotherapy-Induced Abscopal Effect

We investigated the influence of PD-1 expression on the systemic antitumor response (abscopal effect) induced by stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) in preclinical melanoma and renal cell carcinoma models. We compared the SABR-induced antitumor response in PD-1-expressing wild-type (WT) and PD-1-deficient knockout (KO) mice, and found that PD-1 expression compromises the survival of tumor-bearing mice treated with SABR. None of the PD-1 WT mice survived beyond 25 days, whereas 20% of the PD-1 KO mice survived beyond 40 days. Similarly, PD-1-blocking antibody in WT mice was able to recapitulate SABR-induced antitumor responses observed in PD-1 KO mice and led to increased survival. The combination of SABR plus PD-1 blockade induced near complete regression of the irradiated primary tumor (synergistic effect), as opposed to SABR alone or SABR plus control antibody. The combination of SABR plus PD-1 blockade therapy elicited a 66% reduction in size of non-irradiated, secondary tumors outside the SABR radiation field (abscopal effect). The observed abscopal effect was tumor-specific and was not dependent on tumor histology or host genetic background. The CD11ahigh CD8+ T-cell phenotype identifies a tumor-reactive population, which was associated in frequency and function with a SABR-induced antitumor immune response in PD-1 KO mice. We conclude that SABR induces an abscopal tumor-specific immune response in both the irradiated and non-irradiated tumors, which is potentiated by PD-1 blockade. The combination of SABR and PD-1 blockade has the potential to translate into a potent immunotherapy strategy in the management of metastatic cancer patients.
Stirtonanthus, a new name for Stirtonia (Leguminosae, tribe Podalyrieae)

The new generic name Stirtonanthus is proposed to replace the illegitimate Stirtonia Van Wyk & Schutte (1994), which proves to be a later homonym of Stirtonia A. L. Smith (1926) and Stirtonia R. Brown (1900).
PARENTAL PREFERENCES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF VESICOURETERAL REFLUX

Purpose: We determined parental preferences for the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux in their child.Materials and Methods: Parents of children with vesicoureteral reflux were prospectively recruited to evaluate choices in reflux management. In each case a standard questionnaire that described the treatment options for reflux was administered. Parents were asked to choose between long-term antibacterial prophylaxis with annual radiography studies and open or endoscopic treatment at each of 1 to 5 years of followup. They were also given the choice between open or endoscopic treatment. Annual resolution and/or correction rates provided for medical, surgical and endoscopic management were 20%, 95% to 100% and 80% after 1 or 2 injections, respectively.Results: We queried 91 families of female (81%) and male (19%) patients. Average duration of reflux followup was 2 years and mean patient age was 49.8 months. At diagnosis reflux was grades I to II in 65% of cases, grade III in 26% and grades IV to V in 9%. The...
The role of ethnic pride and parental disapproval of smoking on smoking behaviors among minority and white adolescents in a suburban high school

Background Adolescence is a critical developmental period when tobacco use is initiated and progression to regular smoking occurs. Another growing concern is the mounting evidence of ethnic/racial disparities in the smoking rates and adverse health consequences related to smoking. To reduce ethnic/racial disparities in smoking behaviors, understanding the protective influences against smoking behaviors among minority adolescents is important. Therefore, we examined the role of ethnic pride and parental disapproval of smoking on a wide range of smoking behaviors in ethnic/racial minority and White adolescents attending a suburban high school in Connecticut.
3D data processing with advanced computer graphics tools

Often, the 3-D raw data coming from an optical profilometer contains spiky noises and irregular grid, which make it difficult to analyze and difficult to store because of the enormously large size. This paper is to address these two issues for an optical profilometer by substantially reducing the spiky noise of the 3-D raw data from an optical profilometer, and by rapidly re-sampling the raw data into regular grids at any pixel size and any orientation with advanced computer graphics tools. Experimental results will be presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
The rural ecology of the British drought of 1975–1976

Britain, a nation with the most organized water system in the world, suffered a protracted drought in 1975–1976. This paper casts doubt on the assumption that its causes were natural, especially in rural areas, and presents some general principles regarding the process of responding to water supply problems. The past and present water situation of Britain is described, and an account of the course of the drought and responses to it is presented.
Stress Path Method

The stress path method for solving stress-strain problems in soil mechanics is described and illustrated. The novel feature of this method is that it integrates present knowledge into a generalized approach to stress-strain problems. It consists of: (1) Portraying with stress paths or stress-strain curves, or both, the conditions within one or more elements in the soil of the actual field structure; and (2) selecting soil tests and analytical techniques consistent with the field stress paths or stress-strain curves, or both. The stress path method facilitates a recognition and an understanding of the fundamentals of the field problem and thereby indicates the appropriate components of the solution from those available. The method obviously does not avoid such difficulties as the shortcomings of present stress distribution theories and the great variability and complexities of soil. The roles of these difficulties in a particular field problem are better realized through use of this method, and it assists—not replaces—the critical role of engineering judgment.
Design and experimental evaluation of an intracavitary ultrasound phased array system for hyperthermia

For evaluating the feasibility of treating prostate cancer, a 64-element linear ultrasound phased array applicator for intracavitary hyperthermia was designed and constructed. A 64-channel ultrasound driving system including amplifiers, phase shifters, and RF power meters was also developed to drive the array. The design of the array and driving equipment are presented, as are the results of acoustical field measurements and in vitro perfused phantom studies performed with the array. Several techniques for heating realistically sized tumor volumes were also investigated, including single focus scanning and two techniques for producing multiple stationary foci. The results show that the operation of the array correlated closely with the theoretical model. When producing a single stationary focus, the array was able to increase tissue temperature by 12/spl deg/C in vitro in perfused phantom. With some minor improvements in array design, intracavitary phased arrays could be evaluated in a clinical environment. >
The Politics of Paradise: Augustine's Exegesis of Genesis 1–3 Versus that of John Chrysostom*

Is a human being capable of self-government? Christians who defied the Roman government that hounded them as criminals emphatically answered yes. Early Christian spokesmen, like Jews before them and the American colonists long after, claimed to find in the biblical creation account divine sanction for declaring their independence from governments they considered corrupt and arbitrary. Unlike its Babylonian counterpart, the Hebrew creation account of Genesis 1 indicates that God gave the power of earthly rule to adam—not to the king or emperor, but simply to “mankind” (and some even thought this might include women). Most Christian apologists from the first through the fourth centuries would have agreed with Gregory of Nyssa who, following the lead of rabbinic tradition, explains that after God created the world “as a royal dwelling place for the future king” he made humanity “as a being fit to exercise royal rule” by making it “the living image of the universal King.”
Fallopian Tube Cancer

The use of sonography in the evaluation of adnexal masses presents an opportunity for detecting various abnormalities. A case study of primary adenocarcinoma of the fallopian tube is presented. This is one of the rarest malignancies of the female genital tract. Its frequency in relationship to all gynecologic cancers is reported to be 1% or less. As a result, it is not surprising that the diagnosis is rarely made preoperatively. Due to the occurrence rate of this malignancy, the sonographer's opportunity to see this pathological process is limited. The following case illustrates an example of adnexal findings in a “routine” sonographic examination for post-menopausal bleeding.
Competency, settling behavior, and postsettlement aggregation by porcelain crab megalopae (Anomura: Porcellanidae)

Gregarious settlement by megalopae of the porcelain crabs Petrolisthes cinctipes (Randall) and P. eriomerus Stimpson was investigated to determine possible means of attraction and postsettlement benefits. Megalopae of P. eriomerus were attracted to conspecific adults confined to chambers that prevented tactile or visual contact, suggesting that postlarvae respond to a waterborne cue. There was also clear evidence of an extended period of competency for settlement, since newly molted megalopae of P. cinctipes held with conspecific adults settled within 2–4 days while those without adults delayed settlement for 2–3 wk. Loss of swimming ability at settlement is followed by degeneration of the pleopods and color changes. Following settlement juvenile instars appear to gain protection by continuing to hide between and beneath conspecific adults; this behavior significantly reduced predation in a laboratory experiment.
Carcinogen and dietary lipid regulate ras expression and localization in rat colon without affecting farnesylation kinetics

Epidemiological and experimental data suggest that dietary fiber and fat are major determinants of colorectal cancer. However, the mechanisms by which these dietary constituents alter the incidence of colon cancer have not been elucidated. Evidence indicates that dominant gain-of-function mutations short-circuit protooncogenes and contribute to the pathogenesis of cancer. Therefore, we began to dissect the mechanisms whereby dietary fat and fiber, fed during the initiation, promotion and progression stages of colon tumorigenesis, regulate ras p21 localization, expression and mutation frequency. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (140) were provided with corn oil or fish oil and pectin or cellulose plus or minus the carcinogen azoxymethane (AOM) in a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial design and killed after 34 weeks. We have previously shown adenocarcinoma incidence in these animals to be 70.3% (52/74) for corn oil + AOM and 56.1% (37/66) for fish oil + AOM (P < 0.05). Total ras expression as well as ras membrane:cytosol ratio was 4- to 6-fold higher in colon tumors than in mucosa from AOM- or saline-injected rats. Expression of ras in the mucosal membrane fraction was 13% higher for animals fed corn oil compared with fish oil feeding (P < 0.05), which is noteworthy since ras must be localized at the plasma membrane to function. The elevated ras membrane:cytosol ratio in tumors was not due to increased farnesyl protein transferase activity or prenylation state, as nearly all detectable ras was in the prenylated form. Phosphorylated p42 and p44 mitogen activated protein kinase (ERK) expression was two-fold higher in tumor extracts compared with uninvolved mucosa from AOM- and saline-injected rats (P < 0.05). The frequency of K-ras mutations was not significantly different between the various groups, but there was a trend toward a greater incidence of mutations in tumors from corn oil fed rats (85%) compared with fish oil fed rats (58%). Our results indicate that the carcinogen-induced changes in ras expression and membrane localization are associated with the in vivo activation of the ERK pathway. In addition, suppression of tumor development by dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may be partly due to a combined effect on colonic ras expression, membrane localization, and mutation frequency.
Control of nonminimum phase plants with output dead-zones

For discrete-time nonminimum phase plants with output dead-zones, we propose a dead-zone inverse controller which, after a proper initialization, can cancel the effect of the dead-zone and achieve the desired tracking property over a finite time interval of interest. Simulation results show that the proposed controller also leads to the desired tracking performance with random initializations.
1-ns reconfiguration direct space-to-time pulse shaping

In this paper we demonstrate high-speed direct space-to-time pulse shaping with waveform reconfigurations down to 1ns. Our pulse shaper implementation incorporates a modified arrayed-waveguide grating structure and an array of optoelectronic reflection modulators.
The Role of Jelly Coats in Sperm‐Egg Encounters, Fertilization Success, and Selection on Egg Size in Broadcast Spawners

Abstract: Sperm limitation may be an important selective force influencing gamete traits such as egg size. The relatively inexpensive extracellular structures surrounding many marine invertebrate eggs might serve to enhance collision rates without the added cost of increasing the egg cell. However, despite decades of research, the effects of extracellular structures on fertilization have not been conclusively documented. Here, using the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus, we remove jelly coats from eggs, and we quantify sperm collisions to eggs with jelly coats, eggs without jelly coats, and inert plastic beads. We also quantify fertilization success in both egg treatment groups. We find that sperm‐egg collision rates increase as a function of sperm concentration and target size and that sperm are not chemotactically attracted to eggs nor to jelly coats in this species. In fertilization assays, the presence of the jelly coat is correlated with a significant but smaller‐than‐expected improvement in fertiliza...
Course and pathogenesis of postischemic acute renal failure in the rat.

The effect of 45-min clamping of the renal artery was studied in the conscious uninephrectomized rat to reproduce the syndrome of hemodynamically mediated acute renal failure in humans after a single ischemic insult. Twenty-four hours after ischemia, creatinine clearance was reduced by 90%, whereas fractional excretion of sodium was markedly increased; over the subsequent 5 days, both values returned to normal. The animals were nonoliguric. Fractional clearances of graded sizes of neutral dextrans (radii 20–44 A), employed to detect transtubular backleak of inulin, were not significantly different 24 or 48 h postischemia from those in normal animals. The implication that the normal fractional dextran clearances excluded tubular backleak was tested directly by microinjecting [methoxy-3H]inulin into the proximal tubule. In most tubules injected, the recovery of radioactivity in the urine was markedly lower 24 and 48 h postischemia than that in normal rats; in a few injected tubules of postischemic kidneys, ...
Nonmelanoma subungual malignancies: A case-based review of radiation therapy.

Subungual squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a rare malignant tumor that originates underneath the nail plate. Its etiology remains unknown, though trauma, chronic infections, immunosuppression, and radiation are possible predisposing factors.1 Here we report the first case of subungual SCC in a 69-year-old man associated with chronic Candida parapsilosis infection and review nonmelanoma subungual malignancies. An association between chronic esophageal candidiasis and esophageal SCC has been described.2 This study draws attention to a possible association between the skin microbiome and carcinogenesis. We describe current treatments and propose a promising alternative radiotherapeutic option.
Effect of Aluminum Addition on Ductility and Yield Strength of Fe3Al Alloys with 0.5 wt % TiB2

Studies have been conducted of the mechanical properties of Fe/sub 3/Al alloys containing 24 to 30 at. % Al, to which 0.5 wt % TiB/sub 2/ was added for grain refinement. In tensile tests conducted at room temperature, it has been found that, as the aluminum content is increased, the yield strength decreases sharply from 760 to 310 MPa. The decrease in yield strength is accompanied by a four-fold increase in room-temperature ductility. Ordered iron aluminides (containing no disordered ..cap alpha.. phase) showed a clear increase in yield strength with temperature above 300/sup 0/C. Their strength reached a maximum around 600/sup 0/C, above which it decreased sharply. All these results are discussed and correlated with stability of superlattice dislocations as a function of aluminum content.
Wafer fusion for optical communication applications

Long-wavelength surface normal optoelectronic devices such as vertical-cavity lasers, resonant cavity photodetectors and Fabry-Perot modulators are potentially integrable low-cost elements for wafer-level optical communication systems. To achieve high reflectivity, low thermal resistance mirrors with InGaAsP active layers we have proposed1 to fabricate long-wavelength vertical-cavity lasers (VCLs) using AlAs/GaAs mirrors and InGaAsP active layers bonded by wafer-fusion.2 In the method of wafer fusion, substrates of vastly different lattice constants are bonded to produce an optically transparent junction that is both electrically and thermally conductive. Wafer fusion, hence, opens great possibilities for realization of novel optoelectronic devices that utilize InGaAsP, GaAlAs and Si materials in a single structure. We have demonstrated the use of wafer fusion to fabricate single-fused 1.3 µm VCLs,1 1.52 µm VCLs,3 resonant-cavity photodetectors,4 and double-fused 1.52 µm VCLs.5
WHAT IS THE SLOPE OF EQUILIBRIUM RANGE IN THE FREQUENCY SPECTRUM OF WIND WAVES

An effort to empirically assess the slope of the equilibrium range in a wind-wave frequency spectrum with a large number of data recorded in the Great Lakes did not serve to clarify the uncertainty between a -4 or a -5 frequency exponent representation. The uncertainty is further compounded by indications that the slope is not necessarily unique, it tends to vary with wave momentum. For sufficiently well-developed wind waves the exponent appears to cluster between -3 and -4. For practical applications the f"* equilibrium range is perhaps an effective approximation. What the correct slope is for the equilibrium range, or even whether or not a unique slope exists, remains elusive and has yet to be satisfactorily substantiated.
Designing a Calculus Mobile

(2002). Designing a Calculus Mobile. The College Mathematics Journal: Vol. 33, No. 2, pp. 131-136.
Characterization of the Physiological Response following In Vivo Administration of Astragalus membranaceus.

The botanical, Astragalus membranaceus, is a therapeutic in traditional Chinese medicine. Limited literature exists on the overall in vivo effects of A. membranaceus on the human body. This study evaluates the physiological responses to A. membranaceus by measuring leukocyte, platelet, and cytokine responses as well as body temperature and blood pressure in healthy individuals after the in vivo administration of A. membranaceus. A dose-dependent increase in monocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes was measured 8–12 hours after administration and an increase in the number of circulating platelets was seen as early as 4 hours. A dynamic change in the levels of circulating cytokines was observed, especially in interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-13, IL-6, and soluble IL-2R. Subjective symptoms reported by participants were similar to those typically experienced in viral type immune responses and included fatigue, malaise, and headache. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure were reduced within 4 hours after administration, while body temperature mildly increased within 8 hours after administration. In general, all responses returned to baseline values by 24 hours. Collectively, these results support the role of A. membranaceus in priming for a potential immune response as well as its effect on blood flow and wound healing.
The amphibian diluting segment

Diluting segments function to reabsorb NaCl and to reduce the osmolality of tubule fluid. These segments in amphibians are important in the conservation of NaCl. The diluting segment of mammals, the thick ascending limb, besides being an important site for the reabsorption of NaCl, supplies the energy that enables the kidney to excrete a concentrated urine. We focus in this review on the mechanisms involved in cellular and paracellular transport of Na+, K+, Cl-, and H+ in the amphibian diluting segment and how the transport of these ions is regulated. Also discussed is the action of loop diuretics and hormones on both transepithelial and cellular function. The large size of amphibian cells and their viability in various artificial conditions have allowed experiments to be performed that are not possible in the mammalian kidney, providing important information on the mechanisms of ion transport common to both mammalian thick ascending limb and amphibian diluting segment.
Survey on KAB for tuberculosis control in the Comprehensive Demonstration Area of Hubei

Objective To comprehend the extent of KAB(knowledge,attitude,behavior) of tuberculosis in Jianghan and Qiaokou districts,Wuhan,(the demonstration districts of TB comprehensive prevention and control),and to provide references for establishing appropriate health promotion measures.Methods 2 751 local residents were surveyed for KAB of TB.Results 99.1% of the respondents recognized the importance of having certain knowledge of TB,of which,52.7% respondents were informed through radio and television,42.8% through newspapers and magazines,13.3% through advertising posters,7.9% through large-scale propaganda activities,5.2% through posters(booklets),16.2% through other means.The respondents' willingness to accept TB knowledge,in turn,were,TV 70.4%,newspaper 68.8%,community-show window 63.6%,radio 38.6%,large-scale publicity propaganda activity 21.0%,leaflet/booklet 16.4%,Web 14.3%,medical personnel 9.5%,bus-advertising 7.7%.the lowest was small gifts with promotional content,only 2.7%.Conclusions TB health promotion should be designed for different target groups,adopting a more popular approach which may arouse public interests and allow people to comprehend the content with ease.
Dose-reponse relationship between the level of lead exposure and main biological monitoring indicators

[Objective]To analyze the occupational health examination results of 1 134 lead exposed workers from 14 lead-acid battery manufacturers in Wuxi City in 2012,and understand the dose-response relationship between lead exposure level and main biological monitoring indicators. [Methods]Health surveillance results were classified according to blood lead concentrations. The dose-response relationship between lead exposure level and main biological monitoring indicators in serum and urine were analyzed by SPSS 15. 0 under different concentrations. [Results]A total of 1 134 workers with lead exposure were investigated,573 were male and 561 were female. The age ranged from 19-66( 38. 2 ± 8. 87) years,and service length ranged from 1 month-35 years. The blood lead concentration range were 0. 01-7. 60 μmol / L. The analysis of effect of different exposure levels on the main biological monitoring indicators with blood lead concentration as internal exposure dose showed that the abnormal rates of hemoglobin decreasing,erythrocyte decreasing and thrombocyte decreasing and the positive rate of urine bilirubin were significantly different between groups with different exposure levels,while the abnormal rate of leukocyte decreasing,and positive rates of ketone,urinary protein and urobilinogen were not significant( P 0. 05). [Conclusion]The elevated lead levels of workers can lead injury aggravated in blood and digestive system,cause deceasing of hemoglobin,erythrocyte and thrombocyte,and the increasing of positive rate of urine bilirubin.
SYNTHESIS OF A PYRIDONES DERIVATIVE WITH NATURAL HETEROCYCLIC PARENT SUBSTANCE

A kind of α.β-unsaturated derivative(2a—c)with isochroman—4 has been obtained by ALDOL condensation reaction, in which the isochromanone reacts with aromatic aldehyde in presence of sodium hydroxide alcohol solution. And then a title compound(4a—c)with 83%-90% yield has been synthesized by the reaction of the(4a—c) and cyanoacetamide in ethanol solution containing sodium ethylateby Michel addition reaction. The title compound synthesized is similar to method by dehydrogenation in existence of element Se with piperidine as catalyst. The chemical structure of the synthesized compounds (4a—c) has been proved by elemental analysis, IR and 1H NMR analysis.
Effect of the Maximum Dose on White Matter Fiber Bundles Using Longitudinal Diffusion Tensor Imaging

Purpose Previous efforts to decrease neurocognitive effects of radiation focused on sparing isolated cortical structures. We hypothesize that understanding temporal, spatial, and dosimetric patterns of radiation damage to whole-brain white matter (WM) after partial-brain irradiation might also be important. Therefore, we carried out a study to develop the methodology to assess radiation therapy (RT)–induced damage to whole-brain WM bundles. Methods and Materials An atlas-based, automated WM tractography analysis was implemented to quantify longitudinal changes in indices of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) of 22 major WM fibers in 33 patients with predominantly low-grade or benign brain tumors treated by RT. Six DTI scans per patient were performed from before RT to 18 months after RT. The DTI indices and planned doses (maximum and mean doses) were mapped onto profiles of each of 22 WM bundles. A multivariate linear regression was performed to determine the main dose effect as well as the influence of other clinical factors on longitudinal percentage changes in axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD) from before RT. Results Among 22 fiber bundles, AD or RD changes in 12 bundles were affected significantly by doses ( P Conclusions Our study demonstrates for the first time that the maximum dose to the elongated WM bundles causes post-RT damage in WM. Validation and correlative studies are necessary to determine the ability and impact of sparing these bundles on preserving neurocognitive function after RT.
Eye Color Mutants and Their Enzymes

The eye color mutants of Drosophila occupy a significant place in the history of genetics in general, and biochemical gentics in particular. The first mutant to be described in Drosophila was white eye (w) by T. H. Morgan (Morgan, 1910). This observation marked the beginning of the extensive work of Morgan, his coworker Bridges et al. and their students, which developed the genetic analysis of this small insect to the degree of sophistication it has reached today. The experiments of Beadle et al. during the 1930’s and early 1940’s on the development of eye colors and the interaction of genes responsible for eye color production laid much of the groundwork for our knowledge of the relation between genes and metabolism. These were some of the earliest experiments that linked genes to a sequence of steps in a metabolic pathway. This work has been reviewed extensively (Ephrussi, 1942; Beadle and Tatum, 1941).
Time Complexity of Computation and Construction in the Chemical Reaction Network-Controlled Tile Assembly Model

In isolation, chemical reaction networks and tile-based self-assembly are well-studied models of chemical computation. Previously, we introduced the chemical reaction network-controlled tile assembly model (CRN-TAM), in which a stochastic chemical reaction network can act as a non-local control and signalling system for tile-based assembly, and showed that the CRN-TAM can perform several tasks related to the simulation of Turing machines and construction of algorithmic shapes with lower space or program complexity than in either of its parent models. Here, we introduce a kinetic variant of the CRN-TAM and investigate the time complexity of computation and construction. We analyze the time complexity of decision problems in the CRN-TAM, and show that decidable languages can be decided as efficiently by CRN-TAM programs as by Turing machines. We also give a lower bound for the space-time complexity of CRN-TAM computation that rules out efficient parallel stack machines. We provide efficient parallel implementations of non-deterministic computations, showing among other things that CRN-TAM programs can decide languages in \(\mathsf {NTIME}(f(n)) \cap \mathsf {coNTIME}(f(n))\) in \(\mathcal {O}(f(n) + n + \log c)\) time with \(1 - \exp (-c)\) probability, using volume exponential in n. Lastly, we provide basic mechanisms for parallel computations that share information and illustrate the limits of parallel computation in the CRN-TAM.
Sexuality-related communication within the family context: experiences of bisexual parents with their children in the United States of America

AbstractAlthough many self-identified bisexual individuals report having at least one child, bisexual parents’ unique experiences, including sexuality-related communication with their children, have been largely absent from the parenting literature. We conducted in-depth interviews via telephone (or digital telephony such as voice over Internet protocol) with 33 individuals who self-identified as bisexual were at least 18 years old, had at least one child (genetic, adopted, step, foster, guardian or partner’s child) and currently living in the USA. Nearly all participants encouraged their children to be tolerant of sexual and gender diversity. Sexual behaviours were primarily discussed in terms of protection from sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy. Participants’ approaches to communication included non-verbal methods (e.g. role modelling) and pragmatic verbal discussion. Participants employed numerous strategies, including age-appropriate, child-driven and opportunistic discussions. ...
An Exploration of Factors Associated With Ageist Stereotype Threat in a Medical Setting.

Objectives Experiencing stereotype threat in a medical setting may be triggered by routine clinical activities, and may be detrimental to healthcare processes and outcomes. This study estimated the prevalence of, and identified factors associated with, reporting ageist stereotype threat in a medical setting using a nationally representative dataset. Methods Participants were community-dwelling adults aged 50 and older who had visited the doctor at least once in the past 2 years (n = 1,662). We analyzed data from the Health and Retirement Study using multivariate logistic regression. Results 8.31% of participants felt worry or fear that they were judged by medical staff because of their age. Previous experiences of age discrimination (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.47, p < .01), poorer self-perceptions of aging (AOR = 1.34, p < .05), and having greater control over one's health (AOR = 0.84, p < .05) were associated with reporting stereotype threat because of age. Discussion Future research should investigate if measures to reduce age discrimination and to improve self-perceptions of aging and individual control over health protect against experiencing ageist stereotype threat in healthcare settings.
Single Bundle Reconstruction is Preferred to Double Bundle

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is one of the more common surgical procedures in sports medicine. The objective of the surgery is to restore knee stability by limiting tibial anterior translation and internal rotation. There has been recent interest in the double-bundle reconstruction technique in hopes of better restoring rotational control. While some comparative biomechanical analyses have shown that double-bundle reconstructions better resist internal tibial rotation, these findings are most frequently noted when double-bundle techniques are compared to nonanatomical single-bundle reconstructions. No improvement in clinical outcome has been noted with double-bundle reconstructions over anatomical single-bundle techniques. Meta-analyses on this subject are limited by the heterogeneity of surgical technique and reported outcomes. The literature currently does not support improved outcomes with double-bundle reconstruction over anatomic single-bundle reconstruction.
Software-directed Cache Management in Multiprocessors

We discuss three different software-assisted cache coherence enforcement schemes for large shared-memory multiprocessor systems using interconnection networks. All three rely on a compiler to detect potential coherence problems and generate code to enforce coherence in a parallel program. The main goals are to maintain coherence without any interprocessor communication and to keep coherence enforcement overhead low. The former is achieved by using compile-time knowledge of the parallelism and data dependences in a program. The latter is achieved by using special hardware to invalidate stale cache blocks in time independent of the number of such blocks. Cache words are allowed to become inconsistent with memory as long as the compiler decided it is safe to do so. This allows invalidation to be delayed beyond the time a new copy of a cache word has been generated till the time the word has to be invalidated. The three schemes differ in the complexity and the power of the compiler detection algorithms, the complexity of the additional hardware, and the run-time support the hardware provides for deciding what to invalidate. Each scheme improves over the previous one in terms of the amount of unnecessary invalidation and achieves higher hit ratios.
Desire’s revelatory conflagration

ABSTRACTThrough a comparative reading of work by Georges Bataille, Lee Edelman, Guy Hocquenghem and Pseudo-Dionysius, this essay argues that they share an apophatic vision that informs a politics of negating refusal. It insists that a queer theology, and its accompanying political vision, must be critical without reserve, and only then can it avoid the antagonisms that comprise the social order.
Clinical Trial Amendments: Development of a Process for Consistent Implementation .

Clinical trials are responsible for the advancements made in cancer care. An interdepartmental work group at a major academic cancer hospital developed a process for the consistent communication and implementation of clinical trial amendments. This process ensures improved patient safety, as well as high-quality research. .
Pennsylvania Senate Race: Calculated Campaigns in a Toss-up State

The Pennsylvania Senate match started with a bitter primary, featuring a candidate who almost won six years earlier, a party-anointed favorite, and a renegade small-town mayor. The general election pitted Pat Toomey (R) against Katie McGinty (D) and was the most expensive contest in history. Both candidates and outside groups engaged in an ad war that accounted for nearly 60% of all political advertising in the state. Both campaigns used a “two-Pennsylvania” strategy, recognizing the bifurcated electorate. Toomey waited until the last minute to announce he voted for Trump while McGinty was an unabashed Clinton supporter. Toomey won reelection with slightly less than 49% of the vote, which leaves open the question of whether McGinty would have won if the Libertarian had not been in the race.
Treatment of Visual Disorders in Parkinson Disease

This article discusses visual disorders in both Parkinson disease (PD) and other Parkinsonian disorders. It is organized largely by the anatomical site of pathology and emphasizes practical treatments. Targeted treatment options include medications, surgery, occupational, and physical therapies as well as optical aids. The causes of visual complaints in Parkinson disease and other similar disorders are being more clearly identified. A new medication approved specifically to treat hallucinations in PD now is available. There is increased understanding of the important role that an ophthalmologist can play in the care of these patients. Finally, research and therapeutic development are unmet needs in accessing and treating visual complaints in PD and Parkinsonian disorders. A better understanding of Parkinson-related visual complaints and of available treatment options is important to optimize patient safety and quality of life. Vision impairment leads to difficulties in many common activities including reading, ambulating, and driving. Falls and injuries, made more likely because of impaired vision, result in an early loss of independence. Awareness of the problem, patient education, ophthalmologic care, selected therapeutics, physical therapy, and occupational therapy are crucial to maximizing quality of life in these patients.
LOCAL NUCLEAR REACTOR POWER MEASUREMENTS USING GAMMA-RAY FLUCTUATIONS.

Local measurements of the inherent fluctuations in the gamma-ray density at specific locations in the core of the Pennsylvania State Triga Reactor have been conducted using two externally located d...
Nazi Policy, Jewish Workers, German Killers

Nazi Policy, Jewish Workers, German Killers focuses on controversial issues in current Holocaust scholarship. How did Nazi Jewish policy evolve during the first years of the war? When did the Nazi regime cross the historic watershed from population expulsion and decimation ('ethnic cleansing') to total and systematic extermination? How did Nazi authorities attempt to reconcile policies of expulsion and extermination with the wartime urge to exploit Jewish labor? How were Jewish workers impacted? What role did local authorities play in shaping Nazi policy? What more can we learn about the mindset and behavior of the local perpetrators? Using new evidence, this book attempts to shed light on these important questions.
The Second Lane Debate: Voices from the Wilderness Surge Across the Nation

In February and March 1834, students at the Lane Seminary in Cincinnati, Ohio held a series of debates over eighteen days that resulted in virtually the entire student body adopting the belief that the people of the southern United States needed to emancipate their slaves immediately. This thesis traced the next step for the young Lane abolitionists, one in which they put their new beliefs into action. This next step, termed by the author as the Second Lane Debates, took the local events into the forum of the national print media. The Second Lane Debates became a powerful forum for discussion of immediate emancipation through the means of moral suasion. The abolitionist press proved a willing partner in the Second Lane Debates by providing the Lane students with space in their papers as a pulpit to proclaim their views while simultaneously providing an example of people, several of whom owned slaves prior to the debates on campus, who converted to immediate emancipation through moral suasion. By examining the print media discussion, the first two chapters of this thesis demonstrated the common ground of the abolitionists with those who did not espouse abolitionist ideas in terms of their backgrounds, their theology, their belief in the humanity of slaves as well as the need for those slaves to be free. The third chapter examined the debate that shook the Lane Seminary to its core by looking at the print media debate between colonizationists and abolitionists. This chapter showed the deep divide that the slavery issue created among even like-minded Americans as far back as 1834.
(Big)data in a virtualized world: volume, velocity, and variety in cloud datacenters

Virtualization is the ubiquitous way to provide computation and storage services to datacenter end-users. Guaranteeing sufficient data storage and efficient data access is central to all datacenter operations, yet little is known of the effects of virtualization on storage workloads. In this study, we collect and analyze field data from production datacenters that operate within the private cloud paradigm, during a period of three years. The datacenters of our study consist of 8,000 physical boxes, hosting over 90,000 VMs, which in turn use over 22 PB of storage. Storage data is analyzed from the perspectives of volume, velocity, and variety of storage demands on virtual machines and of their dependency on other resources. In addition to the growth rate and churn rate of allocated and used storage volume, the trace data illustrates the impact of virtualization and consolidation on the velocity of IO reads and writes, including IO deduplication ratios and peak load analysis of co-located VMs. We focus on a variety of applications which are roughly classified as app, web, database, file, mail, and print, and correlate their storage and IO demands with CPU, memory, and network usage. This study provides critical storage workload characterization by showing usage trends and how application types create storage traffic in large datacenters.
Distributed model solution techniques for capillary-tissue systems.

I’d like to begin with the remark that distributed parameter models are so-called “tigers-by-the-tail” as several people in the audience would testify, but if one can tame it, or at least hang on, the results are usually worth the effort. In effect, one is trying to come as close to reality as possible with such a model.
Eradication of persistent methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection in cystic fibrosis.

Abstract Background The prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) has increased significantly. While studies demonstrate that persistent MRSA infection in CF is associated with poor clinical outcomes, there are no randomized controlled studies informing management. Methods The Persistent MRSA Eradication Protocol was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study investigating a comprehensive 28-day treatment regimen with or without inhaled vancomycin for eradication of MRSA. Eligible participants had CF and documented persistent MRSA infection. All participants received oral antibiotics, topical decontamination, and environmental cleaning and were randomized to receive inhaled vancomycin or inhaled placebo. The primary outcome was the difference in MRSA eradication rates one month after completion of the treatment protocol. Results 29 participants were randomized. Four subjects in the inhaled vancomycin group required withdrawal from the study for bronchospasm before outcome data were collected and were excluded from analysis. There was no difference in the primary outcome: 2/10 (20%) of subjects in the intervention group and 3/15 (20%) in the placebo group had a MRSA negative sputum culture one month after treatment. There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of MRSA eradication at the end of treatment or three months after treatment completion. Conclusions This study suggests that persistent MRSA infection is difficult to eradicate, even with multimodal antibiotics. The use of a single course of inhaled vancomycin may not lead to higher rates of MRSA eradication in individuals with CF and may be associated with bronchospasm. Fund This trial was financially supported by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Regularized single and double layer integrals in 3D Stokes flow

Abstract We present a numerical method for computing the single layer (Stokeslet) and double layer (stresslet) integrals in Stokes flow. The method applies to smooth, closed surfaces in three dimensions, and achieves high accuracy both on and near the surface. The singular Stokeslet and stresslet kernels are regularized and, for the nearly singular case, corrections are added to reduce the regularization error. These corrections are derived analytically for both the Stokeslet and the stresslet using local asymptotic analysis. For the case of evaluating the integrals on the surface, as needed when solving integral equations, we design high order regularizations for both kernels that do not require corrections. This approach is direct in that it does not require grid refinement or special quadrature near the singularity, and therefore does not increase the computational complexity of the overall algorithm. Numerical tests demonstrate the uniform convergence rates for several surfaces in both the singular and near singular cases, as well as the importance of corrections when two surfaces are close to each other.
Water-independent residential properties as a transformational solution to achieve water sustainability in desert cities?

Abstract Cities in regions around the world, such as the Colorado River Basin, face severe water challenges and need solutions that deliver significant progress towards sustainable urban water systems. Real-world experiments help stakeholders learn about solutions and select the most promising for scaling and transfer, but the sustainability experiments literature lacks guidance on how solution case studies might be done. An analytical framework for sustainability solutions developed by the authors is applied in a case study of a water-independent house experiment in Tucson, Arizona to provide insight into whether it could be a transformational solution towards a city-scale sustainable water system. Findings indicate technical feasibility, despite the arid climate, with sustainable co-benefits, but city-scale transformational potential is limited by house size, cost, and cultural acceptability, with a risk of negative systemic effect. Further experimentation towards a more effective solution is seen as worthwhile and areas for improvement and exploration are suggested.