cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Broadband hitless bypass switch for integrated photonic circuits

A new microphotonic hitless switch is proposed. By enabling continuous, uninterrupted transition to a bypass path, it permits tuning of wavelength add-drop filters without disturbing intermediate channels. The scheme comprises two symmetrically actuated, 2 times 2 Deltabeta-type optical switches, antisymmetrically cascaded in a balanced Mach-Zehnder configuration, and a pi differential phase shift in the interferometer arms. By symmetry, it provides for wavelength-independent hitless operation before, during and after switch reconfiguration, permitting slow switching independent of bit rate. Compact implementations using high-index-contrast microelectromechanical-system (MEMS)-actuated switches are proposed
A PHILOSOPHICAL DICHOTOMY IN MIGRATION RESEARCH

Development of a paradigm for migration is hindered partly because present modes of explanation are entangled within a web of assumptions emanating from two different research philosophies: an objective philosophy and a cognitive philosophy. The ways that each philosophy influences the selection of independent variables are discussed and a case is made for a philosophical synthesis.
Estimating effects of reforestation on nitrogen and phosphorus load reductions in the Lower Yazoo River Watershed, Mississippi

Abstract Surface water quality in the Lower Mississippi River Basin (LMRB) and the adjacent Gulf of Mexico has degraded over the past several decades primarily due to deforestation to agricultural lands and the loss of wetlands. This study investigated the benefits of reforestation upon nitrate–nitrogen ( NO 3 − N ) and orthophosphate ( PO 4 3 − ) load reductions in the Lower Yazoo River Watershed (LYRW) within the LMRB using the BASINS-HSPF model. The model was calibrated and validated with available experimental data prior to its applications. Two simulation scenarios were then performed: one was chosen to predict the NO 3 − N and PO 4 3 − loads without reforestation and the other was selected to estimate the impacts of reforestation upon NO 3 − N and PO 4 3 − load reductions following the conversion of 25, 50, 75, and 100% of the agricultural lands (with most lands near or in the batture of the streams) into forests. In general, an increase in forests reduced NO 3 − N and PO 4 3 − loads and occurred because forest soils enriched in organic matter absorb water and nutrients and reduce the surface water runoff. Overall, a two-fold increase in forest land would result in approximately two-fold decrease in annual average NO 3 − N and PO 4 3 − loads. On average, over a 10-year simulation, the specific NO 3 − N and PO 4 3 − load reductions were, respectively, 0.06 and 0.004 ton/ha/y. Although the annual average NO 3 − N and PO 4 3 − loads always decreased with increasing forest land conversion, the optimal specific NO 3 − N and PO 4 3 − load reductions were found at a 75% reduction of agricultural land for the simulation conditions used in this study. Additionally, the annual average NO 3 − N load was about 16 times higher than that of PO 4 3 − in the LYRW. This study suggests that reforestation in or around the batture of streams is a beneficial practice for NO 3 − N and PO 4 3 − load reductions.
How complex are intracellular immune receptor signaling complexes

Nucleotide binding leucine-rich repeat proteins (NLRs) are the major class of intracellular immune receptors in plants. NLRs typically function to specifically recognize pathogen effectors and to initiate and control defense responses that severely limit pathogen growth in plants (termed effector-triggered immunity, or ETI). Despite numerous reports supporting a central role in innate immunity, the molecular mechanisms driving NLR activation and downstream signaling remain largely elusive. Recent reports shed light on the pre- and post-activation dynamics of a few NLR-containing protein complexes. Recent technological advances in the use of proteomics may enable high-resolution definition of immune protein complexes and possible activation-relevant post-translational modifications of the components in these complexes. In this review, we focus on research aimed at characterizing pre- and post-activation NLR protein complexes and the molecular events that follow activation. We discuss the use of new or improved technologies as tools to unveil the molecular mechanisms that define NLR-mediated pathogen recognition.
Toward a Critical Approach to the History of Interiors

This article explores the historiography of the related fields of study that generate the body of knowledge from which the history of interiors is drawn. By comparing the development of methods used to articulate a history of art, architecture, and material culture, an evolution that parallels the critical process is revealed and new pedagogical possibilities are suggested for teaching history. The methods associated with historical research and teaching throughout the 20th century parallel the critical process of description, analysis, and interpretation. Early attempts to identify that which is of value within these histories focused on description and the development of stylistic classifications for artistic and architectural expression. The 2nd and 3rd phases of methodological development in related disciplines complete the critical process by creating an understanding of the place of an object within a broader context to ascertain its significance. The linear construction of history often promoted by interior design texts potentially limits students' abilities to understand the connection between the creative processes used in design activity and those used to study the past. Accepting the theories of meaning found in current methodologies of scholarship used in related fields of history and cultural studies requires an expansion of the perceived boundaries for history. In the end, this could advance the role of the history of interiors as a major contributor to students' creative processes.
The API performance contract

When you call functions in an API, you expect them to work correctly; sometimes this expectation is called a contract between the caller and the implementation. Callers also have performance expect...
Characterization of a high current induction accelerator electron beam via optical transition radiation from dielectric foils

Traditionally, thin metal foils are employed for optical transition radiation (OTR) beam diagnostics but the possibility of shorting accelerator insulating surfaces and modifying accelerating fields are concerns. The successful utilization of dielectric foils in place of metal ones could alleviate these issues but necessitates more understanding of the OTR data for inferring desired beam parameters because of the dielectric's finite permittivity. Additionally, the temperature dependence of the relevant foil parameters due to beam heating should be accounted for. Here, we present and discuss sample synthetic diagnostic results of Kapton OTR spot-size measurements from the Flash X-Ray (FXR) accelerator which studies these and sightline effects. These simulations show that in some cases, the observed spot-sizes and radii are noticeably larger than the beam radii.
COMMISSURES OF AUTONOMIC FIBERS IN THE PELVIC ORGANS OF RATS.

A group of autonomic fibers cross the midline over the ventral surface of the cervix of the uterus in the female rat and around the dorsal edge of the prostate and between the spermatic ducts in the male. There is no clear explanation for these decussations.
Skilled migration and development: portable communicative resources for transnational work

As interest grows on the value of skilled migration for development, scholars and policy makers are addressing the portable resources migrants need for professional success and development contributions in home and host communities. Neoliberal orientations to human capital emphasize scripted communication in a uniform language for efficiency. Lingua franca English thus gains importance in immigration policies in host communities and educational policies in home countries. The interview-based study with African skilled migrants reported in this article points to a different answer. The narratives reveal the value of negotiating different varieties of English and diverse languages in professional and development contexts. The interviewees are able to adopt such an orientation because they have developed certain dispositions to engage with language diversity in their multilingual social backgrounds. This paper argues for treating such dispositions as a more beneficial portable resource as it enables migrants to negotiate diversity and expand their repertoires for transnational work and development.
A nonlinear unsteady flexible wing theory

This paper extends a previous study by Wu (Adv. Appl. Mech. 2001; 38:291-353) to continue developing a fully non-linear theory for calculation of unsteady flow generated by a two-dimensional flexible lifting surface moving in arbitrary manner through an incompressible and inviscid fluid for modelling bird/insect flight and fish swimming. The original physical concept elucidated by von Karman and Sears (J. Aeronau Sci. 1938; 5:379-390) in describing the complete vortex system of a wing and its wake in non-uniform motion for their linear theory is adapted and applied to a fully non-linear consideration. The new theory employs a joint Eulerian and Lagrangian description of the lifting-surface movement to facilitate the formulation. The present investigation presents further analysis for addressing arbitrary variations in wing shape and trajectory to achieve a non-linear integral equation akin to Wagner's (Z. Angew. Math. Mech. 1925; 5:17-35) linear version for accurate computation of the entire system of vorticity distribution.
Diseases of Wnt signaling

The Wnt signaling pathways play fundamental roles in the differentiation, proliferation, death and function of many cells and as a result are involved in critical developmental, growth and homeostatic processes in animals. There are four currently known pathways of Wnt signaling; the so-called canonical or Wnt/β-catenin pathway, the Wnt/Ca+2 pathway involving Protein Kinase A, the planar cell polarity pathway and a pathway involving Protein Kinase C that functions in muscle myogenesis. The best studied of these is the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The Wnts are an evolutionarily highly conserved family of genes/proteins. Control of the Wnt pathways is modulated by a number of the proteins that either interact with the Wnt ligands directly, or with the low density lipoprotein-receptor related proteins (LRP) 5 and 6 that along with one of several Frizzled proteins function as co-receptors for the Wnt ligands. Aberrant regulation resulting as a consequence of mutations in any of several components of the Wnt pathway and/or protein modulators of the pathway have been shown to cause a wide spectrum of diseases. This review will briefly touch on various diseases of Wnt signaling including cancer, aortic valve calcification and several bone related phenotypes. Our emerging understanding of Wnt signaling offers great hope that new molecular based screening tests and pharmaceutical agents that selectively target this pathway will be developed to diagnose and treat these diseases in the future.
The Adoption of Microcomputers for Instruction: Implications for Emerging Instructional Media Implementation.

Using the five-stage innovation decision-making process established by Rogers, it was determined that the overwhelming majority of Pennsylvania business education teachers have adopted microcomputer technology and use it to deliver instruction on a routine basis. In addition, it was determined that three factors demonstrated a significant relationship with adoption behavior, even though they had a low ability to predict such behavior. However, it appears that three other factors, i.e., attitude towards microcomputers, the characteristics of microcomputers, and a critical threshold mark for the adoption of microcomputers, may also have influenced the decision of Pennsylvania business education teachers to adopt microcomputers in their classroom. These findings suggest that, perhaps, in the adoption of a new instructional method, what really matters are individual’s attitude towards the new method, the characteristics of the new method, and the critical threshold mark for adopting the specific method.
Personality change during depression treatment: a placebo-controlled trial.

Context High neuroticism is a personality risk factor that reflects much of the genetic vulnerability to major depressive disorder (MDD), and low extraversion may increase risk as well. Both have been linked to the serotonin system. Objectives To test whether patients with MDD taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) report greater changes in neuroticism and extraversion than patients receiving inert placebo, and to examine the state effect hypothesis that self-reported personality change during SSRI treatment is merely a change of depression-related measurement bias. Design A placebo-controlled trial. Setting Research clinics. Patients Adult patients with moderate to severe MDD randomized to receive paroxetine (n = 120), placebo (n = 60), or cognitive therapy (n = 60). Outcome Measures NEO Five-Factor Inventory and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. Results Patients who took paroxetine reported greater personality change than placebo patients, even after controlling for depression improvement (neuroticism, P P = .002). The advantage of paroxetine over placebo in antidepressant efficacy was no longer significant after controlling for change in neuroticism ( P = .46) or extraversion ( P = .14). Patients taking paroxetine reported 6.8 times as much change on neuroticism and 3.5 times as much change on extraversion as placebo patients matched for depression improvement. Although placebo patients exhibited substantial depression improvement (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression score, −1.2 SD, P P = .08) or extraversion (0.08 SD, P = .50). Cognitive therapy produced greater personality change than placebo ( P ≤ .01); but its advantage on neuroticism was no longer significant after controlling for depression ( P = .14). Neuroticism reduction during treatment predicted lower relapse rates among paroxetine responders ( P = .003) but not among cognitive therapy responders ( P = .86). Conclusions Paroxetine appears to have a specific pharmacological effect on personality that is distinct from its effect on depression. If replicated, this pattern would disconfirm the state effect hypothesis and instead support the notion that SSRIs' effects on personality go beyond and perhaps contribute to their antidepressant effects.
From roadkill to road ecology : a review of the ecological effects of roads

Transportation infrastructure affects the structure of ecosystems, the dynamics of ecosystem function, and has direct effects on ecosystem components, including their species composition. Clearly, the construction of transport lines results in the direct destruction and removal of existing ecosystems, and the reconfiguration of local landforms. However, transportation systems, and more specifically, roads, have a wide variety of primary, or direct, ecological effects as well as secondary, or indirect, ecological effects on the landscapes that they penetrate. The effects of roads can be measured in both abiotic and biotic components of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The nature of road systems as network structures renders vast areas of the landscape as road-affected, with small patches of isolated habitat remaining beyond the ecological influence of roads. The increasing attention of scientists to the unintended ecological effects of roads has resulted in the emergence of the science of "Road Ecology," marked with the publication of a multi-authored volume, Road Ecology: Science and Solutions, in 2003.
The Epidemiology of Acute Respiratory Tract Infection in Young Children: Comparison of Findings from Several Developing Countries

Investigators from 10 countries studied the epidemiology of acute respiratory tract infection (ARI) among children 0-59 months old. Data on incidence rates, by age, gender, and season; on pathogenic agents; on case-fatality rates; and on selected risk factor findings are presented. Incidence rates from six of the community-based studies ranged from 12.7 to 16.8 new episodes of ARI per 100 child-weeks at risk, and rates of lower respiratory tract infection (LRI) ranged from 0.2 to 3.4 new episodes per 100 child-weeks at risk. Children spend from 21.7% to 40.1% of observed weeks with ARI and from 1% to 14.4% of observed weeks with LRI. The incidence rates for ARI are highest in younger children. Viruses, especially respiratory syncytial virus, are isolated more frequently than bacteria from children with episodes of LRI. Risk factors exhibited different patterns of association with ARI in different studies. Interventions could have great impact on high-risk levels common in the study populations. These studies provide interesting and useful data on the epidemiologic dynamics of ARI.
Diffusivity measurements of human methemoglobin.

Experimental measurements of the diffusion coefficient of human methemoglobin were made at 25°C with a modified Stokes diaphragm diffusion cell. A Millipore filter was used in place of the ordinary fritted disc to facilitate rapid achievement of steady state in the diaphragm. Methemoglobin concentrations varied from approximately 5 g/100 ml to 30 g/100 ml. The diffusion coefficient in this range decreased from 7.5 x 10-7 cm2/sec to 1.6 x 10-7 cm2/sec.
Calcium and vitamin D

Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone maintenance and for treatment-induced bone augmentation. Deficiencies of both nutrients are very common in the age group most afflicted by osteoporosis. Calcium enhancement of estrogen's effects now have been clearly demonstrated. Additionally, all currently approved bone active agents have been tested only in the presence of extra calcium, and newer anabolic agents create a skeletal need for mineral that will require even higher levels of calcium repletion. Prudent nutritional support for osteoporosis prevention and treatment consists of 30 to 40 mmol Ca/d together with sufficient vitamin D to maintain serum 25(OH)D levels above 80 nmol/L (i.e., approximately 25 microg vitamin D/d).
Regulation of Adenylate Cyclase Coupled β-Adrenergic Receptors by β-Adrenergic Catecholamines

Injection of frogs with β-adrenergiccatecholamines produced a selective desensitization(loss of responsiveness) of the erythrocyte membraneadenylate cyclase to subsequent stimulation in vitroby isoproterenol. Basal, prostaglandin E1-and fluoride-sensitive enzyme activitieswere unaffected. A 77% (P<0.001) decline in isoproterenol-responsiveenzyme activity in the cells from the treatedanimals was observed with no change in the KM forisoproterenol stimulation of the enzyme (concentrationcausing ½ maximal enzyme activation). The decrease in catecholamine-sensitive adenylate cyclasewas accompanied by a parallel 68%(P < 0.001)fall in the apparent number ofβ-adrenergic receptorsin the erythrocyte membranes,assessed by (−)[3H] alprenolol binding studies. There was no changein the affinity of the receptor binding sites. The catecholamine-induced desensitization and fall in the β-adrenergic receptor number were both concentrationand time-dependent and displayed β-adrenergicspecificity. Isoproterenol was more potent...
SUPER SUPPRESSORS IN NEUROSPORA CRASSA I. INDUCTION, GENETIC LOCALIZATION AND RELATIONSHIP TO A MISSENSE SUPPRESSOR

Genetic analyses have been made to test the feasibility of using coincident reversions to prototrophy of multiple mutants to select super suppressors (ssu) in Neurospora crassa. Of five double-mutant strains examined, only those mutant combinations in which both members had the properties of nonsense mutations did revert coincidently. Forty-eight genetically purified coincident revertants were crossed to the wild type, and each was shown to contain a suppressor mutation. Five super suppressors were examined more thoroughly. Tetrad and random spore analysis was used to demonstrate that each behaved as a single gene in crosses. Two super suppressors, ssu-1 and ssu-4 were localized respectively on the right and left arm of linkage group 7. Two others, ssu-2 and ssu-3, appear to map on the right arm of linkage group 1. The fifth super suppressor mapped, ssu-7, lies between ad-8 and ylo-1 on linkage group 6. One super suppressor, ssu-1, was interesting because it mapped near the location reported for the suppressor of the missense mutant tryp-3(td201) (Yourno and Suskind 1964a). However, no overlap was found in action spectrum of the two suppressors. Tetrad analysis showed the two suppressors were located about 10 map units apart, the missense suppressor being the more distal to the centromere.
Dynamics of three-phase slurry reactors

Abstract The dynamic behavior of three-phase slurry systems is presented in terms of the response characteristics of the reactor to a pulse or step input. Equations are derived for the steady-state conversion and the first moment of the response in the gas phase to pulse input of concentration. Overall irreversible and reversible first-order reactions, and adsorption-reaction processes at the catalyst surface have been considered from the viewpoint of evaluating rate coefficients from measured response data. Analysis of two-step adsorption-reaction processes is particularly interesting since dynamic data offer the possibility of separate evaluation of adsorption and surface reaction rate constants, which is not possible from steady-state measurements.
Ultraviolet Radiation Exposure, Vitamin D, and Cancer

This paper reviews briefly the evidence for an association between various measures of UV radiation (UVR) exposure and the development of cancer. Issues such as data quality, study design, measurement variation, comparability of studies, and quantification of UV exposure in relation to skin cancer are discussed. A range of exposure, based on skin type, might be appropriate: from 5 min a day three times a week for light-skinned individuals and 10 min a day three times a week for darker-skinned individuals. These exposures translate into 13 h per year, for a light-skinned individual, leading to 650 h of exposure from birth to age 50.
“More than just reading”: The human factor in reaching resistant readers

Abstract This study included 24 struggling, resistant readers in grades 3 through 5 who were tutored for one to two semesters by university graduate and undergraduate students. All of the young students made great strides in reading achievement and most greatly increased their voluntary reading motivation. Through lesson plans, tutor reflections, interviews with the students and their parents and observations during tutoring, book discussions, and book choices, we examined factors that influenced their reading engagement. Factors such as social interaction around literacy and access to appropriate, relevant and interesting reading materials appeared necessary but not sufficient to inspire voluntary reading. The most salient factor in increasing reading motivation was the tutor's willingness to take personal responsibility for their students’ progress. Effective tutors went well beyond the standard tutoring guidelines to tailor instruction to students’ unique needs and interests, persist in finding just th...
The Associations Between Increasing Degrees of HOMA-IR and Measurements of Adiposity Among Euglycemic U.S. Adults.

Abstract Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between increasing degrees of insulin resistance (using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance [HOMA-IR]) and two measures of adiposity in a nationally representative sample of euglycemic U.S. adults. Materials and Methods: Sample included adult participants (≥20 years of age) [N = 1586 (body mass index, BMI model), N = 1577 (waist circumference, WC model)] from the 1999–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). HOMA-IR was categorized into quartiles. BMI and WC were examined continuously as the dependent variables. Results: Following adjustment for covariates, those with HOMA-IR values in the second, third, and fourth quartiles had significantly higher BMIs (P < 0.001) compared with subjects in the first quartile. In the model using WC, significantly higher WCs were found in subjects in the second, third, and fourth quartiles of HOMA-IR (P < 0.001) compared with those in the first quartile...
Graded effects of unregulated smooth muscle myosin on intestinal architecture, intestinal motility and vascular function in zebrafish.

Smooth muscle contraction is controlled by the regulated activity of the myosin heavy chain ATPase (Myh11). Myh11 mutations have diverse effects in the cardiovascular, digestive and genitourinary systems in humans and animal models. We previously reported a recessive missense mutation, meltdown (mlt), which converts a highly conserved tryptophan to arginine (W512R) in the rigid relay loop of zebrafish Myh11. The mlt mutation disrupts myosin regulation and non-autonomously induces invasive expansion of the intestinal epithelium. Here, we report two newly identified missense mutations in the switch-1 (S237Y) and coil-coiled (L1287M) domains of Myh11 that fail to complement mlt. Cell invasion was not detected in either homozygous mutant but could be induced by oxidative stress and activation of oncogenic signaling pathways. The smooth muscle defect imparted by the mlt and S237Y mutations also delayed intestinal transit, and altered vascular function, as measured by blood flow in the dorsal aorta. The cell-invasion phenotype induced by the three myh11 mutants correlated with the degree of myosin deregulation. These findings suggest that the vertebrate intestinal epithelium is tuned to the physical state of the surrounding stroma, which, in turn, governs its response to physiologic and pathologic stimuli. Genetic variants that alter the regulation of smooth muscle myosin might be risk factors for diseases affecting the intestine, vasculature, and other tissues that contain smooth muscle or contractile cells that express smooth muscle proteins, particularly in the setting of redox stress.
Resistance of Glucose Urea to Urease and Other Enzyme Action; Non-Absorbability of Glucose Urea from the Jejunum

In studying the mechanism of urease action, it would be of interest to find a derivative of urea that would be hydrolyzed in the presence of urease. Urease is very specific in its action and urea appears to be its only substrate. Closely related compounds such as amides or purines as well as simple derivatives of urea are not attacked by this enzyme. Armstrong and Horton1 found that substitution in the urea molecule with methyl or ethyl groups invariably rendered the substituted urea inaccessible to urease. Schoorl2 synthesized glucose-urea, in which one molecule of urea was united with one molecule of the sugar. This compound is very soluble in water and is stable in solution. When heated with acid it undergoes hydrolysis with the formation of -glucose and urea. Johnson and Bergmann,3 in their recent researches on nitrogenous glucosides have prepared glucose urea, and Dr. Johnson generously placed at our disposal a very pure sample of glucose urea for investigation. We have studied the action of urease o...
“Some of Us Who Deal with the Social Fabric”: Jane Addams Blends Peace and Social Justice, 1907–1919

Have you ever wondered about the origin of the phrase: “If you want peace, work for justice?” I recently saw it on a bumper sticker that attributed the slogan to Pope Paul VI, and if you go to the Vatican sites for his annual peace messages between 1967 and 1969, you will find the general sentiment there. But the origin of the idea that peace requires social justice – not just the absence of warfare – is much older. In the twentieth century United States this idea originated in Jane Addams' book, Newer Ideals of Peace, published in 1907.
Problem Causes and Solution of Semi-closed Headlight

The author analyzes the causes of several common problems such as water or ash penetration,condensation,glass cracking or melting and coating exfoliation of reflection cup,then proposes the distinguishing and solving methods that will help the light suppliers,automobile producers and after market services.
Concentration Characteristics of Antibiotics in Urban Aquatic Environment of Haikou

A solid phase extraction-high performance liquid chromatography(SPE-HPLC)method was developed for simultaneous determination of 6 antibiotics in water,including 4 sulfonamides(SAs) such as sulfamerazine,sulfamethoxazole,sulfamethazine,sulfadiazine,2 fluoroquinolone(FQs) such as ciprofloxacin,ofloxacin.Results showed that 6 antibiotics were detected in Haikou surface water,with the concentration range of 3.4 ～1 385.8 ng-1,and sulfamethoxazole had the maximum concentration.Ciprofloxacin,ofloxacin and sulfamethoxazole were detected in each river reaches of Haikou surface water.The concentrations of antibiotics in Haikou surface water were all higher than that in America,other western developed countries,the Pearl River and Victoria Harbor.FQs concentration order in Haikou surface water was from high to low as man-made lake of Jinniuling Park,Hongcheng Lake,East Lake,West Lake,Longkun Stream,Meishe River,river reach of Wuxi Road of Haidian,Yawei Stream.SAs concentration order was from high to low as West Lake,Yawei Stream,river reach of Wuxi Road of Haidian,man-made lake of Jinniuling Park,East Lake,Longkun Stream,Hongcheng Lake,Meishe River.Climate environment,population density,urban sewage and breeding wastewater and hydrodynamic condition become the important factors of antibiotic pollution of Haikou surface water.
Multi-length-scale derivation of the room-temperature material constitutive model for SiC/SiC ceramic-matrix composites

In the present work, multi-length-scale physical and numerical analyses are used to derive a SiC/SiC ceramic matrix composite (CMC) material model suitable for use in a general room-temperature, fi...
Efficacy and Mediation of a Theory-Based Physical Activity Intervention for African American Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Few trials have tested physical-activity interventions among sexual minorities, including African American men who have sex with men (MSM). We examined the efficacy and mediation of the Being Responsible for Ourselves (BRO) physical-activity intervention among African American MSM. African American MSM were randomized to the physical-activity intervention consisting of three 90-min one-on-one sessions or an attention-matched control intervention and completed pre-intervention, immediately post-intervention, and 6- and 12-month post-intervention audio computer-based surveys. Of the 595 participants, 503 completed the 12-month follow-up. Generalized estimating equation models revealed that the intervention increased self-reported physical activity compared with the control intervention, adjusted for pre-intervention physical activity. Mediation analyses suggested that the intervention increased reasoned action approach variables, subjective norm and self-efficacy, increasing intention immediately post-intervention, which increased physical activity during the follow-up period. Interventions targeting reasoned action approach variables may contribute to efforts to increase African American MSM’s physical activity. The trial was registered with the ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02561286 .
A dislocation density-based continuum model of the anisotropic shock response of single crystal α-cyclotrimethylene trinitramine

Abstract We have developed a model for the finite deformation thermomechanical response of α-cyclotrimethylene trinitramine (RDX). Our model accounts for nonlinear thermoelastic lattice deformation through a free energy-based equation of state developed by Cawkwell et al. (2016) in combination with temperature and pressure dependent elastic constants, as well as dislocation-mediated plastic slip on a set of slip systems motivated by experimental observation. The kinetics of crystal plasticity are modeled using the Orowan equation relating slip rate to dislocation density and the dislocation velocity developed by Austin and McDowell (2011) , which naturally accounts for transition from thermally activated to dislocation drag limited regimes. Evolution of dislocation density is specified in terms of local ordinary differential equations reflecting dislocation–dislocation interactions. This paper presents details of the theory and parameterization of the model, followed by discussion of simulations of flyer plate impact experiments. Impact conditions explored within this combined simulation and experimental effort span shock pressures ranging from 1 to 3 GPa for four crystallographic orientations and multiple specimen thicknesses. Simulation results generated using this model are shown to be in strong agreement with velocimetry measurements from the corresponding plate impact experiments. Finally, simulation results are used to motivate conclusions about the nature of dislocation-mediated plasticity in RDX.
Testing and Acceptance Procedures for As-Constructed Asphalt Mixtures Related to Thermal Fracture

AbstractThis study proposes new testing and acceptance procedures for asphalt mixtures associated with thermal fracture, aiming to be a part of a quality assurance program for asphalt pavement cons...
Damage Evolution, Instability and Fracture in Ductile Solids

Selected issues arising in the continuum mechanics analysis of instability and fracture in ductile metals are discussed. Three topics are considered: (i) the role of material rate dependence in setting the character of governing equations, (ii) deformation and failure in porous plastic solids and (iii) the direct calculation of fracture toughness from an analysis of the microscale ductile fracture mechanism.
SAFETY AND EFFICACY OF NON-VITAMIN K ANTAGONIST ORAL ANTICOAGULANTS VERSUS WARFARIN IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION ABLATION: A META-ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIALS

Non-Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulants (NOACs) are increasingly used in clinical practice for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing catheter ablation. Catheter ablation is an established treatment option for patients with AF, however, it is associated with significant complications
A Philosophical Objection to the Optimal Tax Model

The “optimal tax model” is the most significant development in the study of taxation in the last fifty years. It is a mathematical model that purports to measure the social welfare effects of taxation by integrating fairness and efficiency concerns, the two central – and sometimes conflicting – values in tax policy. While originally developed by economists, legal scholars have overwhelmingly embraced the optimal tax model as the tool for evaluating competing tax designs. This article is the first challenge in the legal literature to the normative implications of the optimal tax model. It critiques a key assumption underlying the model – that an ideal tax would be based on an individual’s ability to earn income, rather than the income that is actually earned. While that assumption initially appears consistent with the intuition that tax should be based on one’s ability to pay, this article explains why a tax based on potential earnings would be unjust. It argues that the principles of liberty and equality prohibit a tax based on earning potential, and that the optimal tax model is therefore problematic from the perspective of fairness in taxation. Although different political theories lead to different conclusions about the design of fair taxes, this article makes clear why no theory of justice would embrace the ideal that underlies the optimal tax model. It concludes that legal scholars should consider the injustice of the foundation on which the optimal tax model is built before embracing the products of its analysis.
Articulatory Perspectives of Speech Organization

Research issues of speech production are discussed assuming that speech is organized based on crucial articulatory gestures, relating the phonological representation of a sentence to a physical utterance with certain information added to the lexicosyntactic specifications. It is argued that recent progress in both phonological theory and experimental methods of recording and processing articulatory gestures substantiates a radical departure from the traditional linguistic view that speech is organized by concatenating phonemic segments.
A Fundamental Study of High-Speed Methane-Air Deflagrations Across Simulated Gob Walls and Sphere Beds

Detailed knowledge of flame propagation and pressure generation from methane-air deflagrations with and without obstacles is necessary to understand and help mitigate methane gas explosions in longwall coal mines. Experiments were performed in a quartz flow reactor investigating the effects of confinement, void spacing, and gob geometry on methane flame dynamics using a simulated gob of glass spheres. Results show ignition from a confined space increased flame propagation velocity over 5000% and peak pressure 1300%. A 3.8 cm high simulated gob wall (73% void space) further enhanced flame speed 14% and peak pressure approximately 50%. Decreasing void spacing of a sphere bed from 96 to 89% increased flame speeds 2–4% and pressures 15–35%. Results demonstrate that mine layout and gob characteristics can have a significant impact on the propagation and severity of a methane gas explosion. Experiments from this study will aid in providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to methane explosion enhancement in longwall coal mines.
A Qualitative Study of Sexual Assault Disclosure Impact and Help-Seeking on Support Providers

Friends, family, and significant others who receive disclosures of sexual assault from survivors are also susceptible to the effects of trauma. Most studies on the impact of sexual assault disclosure focus on the experiences of friends of survivors but not significant others or family members, and do not examine support providers' (SPs) help-seeking behaviors. This study of 45 matched pairs of sexual assault survivors and SPs explored the impact of receiving a disclosure and dealing with the emotional weight of these disclosures. SPs were impacted emotionally and in post-disclosure behaviors. SPs reported feeling sadness, were triggered, felt angry, and felt inspired by survivors' disclosures. Active cognitive and behavioral reactions included care-taking of survivors and engaging in prevention. SPs discussed different ways they sought help to deal with the disclosure and why they did or did not seek help post-disclosure. We provide recommendations for SPs and service providers using this data from a diverse, community sample.
Prognostic value of neoadjuvant treatment response in locally advanced esophageal adenocarcinoma

Abstract Objective To determine the association between neoadjuvant chemotherapy and chemoradiation therapy on completeness of pathologic response and to assess the impact of primary tumor versus nodal response on survival after esophagectomy. Methods Patients aged 18 to 80 years in the National Cancer Data Base (2006-2016) with clinically staged, locally advanced (cT2-4 or cN+) esophageal adenocarcinoma who underwent an R0 esophagectomy after neoadjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiation therapy were included. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were constructed to assess the association between treatment response and survival. Results Among 2870 patients, there was a significant dose-response association between completeness of response and overall survival: no response (reference), partial response (hazard ratio [HR], 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.72-0.91), and complete response (HR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.47-0.65). Compared with neoadjuvant chemotherapy alone, neoadjuvant chemoradiation was associated with higher pathologic primary tumor (33.9% vs 21.3%; P Conclusions Pathologic nodal (rather than primary tumor) response to neoadjuvant therapy is associated with improved survival. These data suggest a need to optimize neoadjuvant strategies associated with more complete nodal response rates and to consider more aggressive adjuvant treatment for patients with residual nodal disease after esophagectomy.
A predominant form of C-terminally end-cleaved AQP0 functions as an open water channel and an adhesion protein in AQP0ΔC/ΔC mouse lens.

Abstract The purpose of this investigation was to find out whether C-terminally end-cleaved aquaporin 0 (AQP0), that is present predominantly in the lens mature fiber cells of the WT, functions as a water channel and a cell-to-cell adhesion (CTCA) protein in a knockin (KI) mouse model (AQP0ΔC/ΔC) that does not express intact AQP0. A genetically engineered KI mouse model, AQP0ΔC/ΔC, expressing only end-cleaved AQP0 was developed. This model expresses 1–246 amino acids of AQP0, instead of the full length 1–263 amino acids. Lens transparency of postnatal day 10 (P10) was analyzed qualitatively by dark field imaging. WT, AQP0+/− and AQP0+/ΔC lenses were transparent; AQP0−/− and AQP0ΔC/ΔC mouse lenses displayed loss of transparency. Lens fiber cell membrane vesicles (FCMVs) were prepared from wild type (WT), AQP0 heterozygous (AQP0+/−), AQP0 knockout (AQP0−/−), AQP0+/ΔC and AQP0ΔC/ΔC; water permeability (Pf) was measured using the osmotic shrinking method. CTCA assay was performed using adhesion-deficient L-cells and FCMVs prepared from the abovementioned genotypes. FCMVs of AQP0+/− and AQP0−/− showed a statistically significant reduction (P 0.05) in Pf compared to those of WT. However, CTCA of AQP0+/ΔC AQP0ΔC/ΔC FCMVs was significantly higher (P
The benefits of a model of interval comprehensive assessments (MICA) in hereditary cancer Syndromes: Hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) as an example

A high percentage of individuals at risk for hereditary cancer syndromes are unaware of their risk. This is especially detrimental in syndromes such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer due to a CDH1 germline mutation, for which lifesaving prevention is possible. Surveillance for diffuse gastric cancer in the syndrome is limited, hence the recommendation for prophylactic total gastrectomy for mutation carriers. Genetic counseling and testing is crucial in suspected families but initial contact could be limited, leading to the importance of an interval comprehensive review every 5-8 years to identify and screen additional high-risk individuals. Our contact with a hereditary diffuse gastric cancer family in Jordan in 2011 led to a number of family members receiving education and genetic counseling. Our model of interval comprehensive assessment (MICA) was constructed and implemented by conducting family information service, video call and emails to the high-risk individuals 7 years after initial contact. Using an updated family pedigree we reached out to an additional thirteen high-risk members in six different countries and provided them with genetic education, counseling, and testing. Six members agreed to CDH1 testing (46%). Four tested positive (66%) and one member (25%) underwent prophylactic total gastrectomy.
Dose-intensified chemoradiation is associated with altered patterns of failure and favorable survival in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma.

We evaluated whether dose-intensified chemoradiation alters patterns of failure and is associated with favorable survival in the temozolomide era. Between 2003 and 2015, 82 patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma were treated with 66–81 Gy in 30 fractions using conventional magnetic resonance imaging. Progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated using Kaplan–Meier methods. Factors associated with improved PFS, OS, and time to progression were assessed using multivariate Cox model and linear regression. Median follow-up was 23 months (95% CI 4–124 months). Sixty-one percent of patients underwent subtotal resection or biopsy, and 38% (10/26) of patients with available data had MGMT promoter methylation. Median PFS was 8.4 months (95% CI 7.3–11.0) and OS was 18.7 months (95% CI 13.1–25.3). Only 30 patients (44%) experienced central recurrence, 6 (9%) in-field, 16 (23.5%) marginal and 16 (23.5%) distant. On multivariate analysis, younger age (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.93–0.97, p = 0.0001), higher performance status (HR 0.39, 95% CI 0.16–0.95, p = 0.04), gross total resection (GTR) versus biopsy (HR 0.37, 95% CI 0.16–0.85, p = 0.02) and MGMT methylation (HR 0.25, 95% CI 0.09–0.71, p = 0.009) were associated with improved OS. Only distant versus central recurrence (p = 0.03) and GTR (p = 0.02) were associated with longer time to progression. Late grade 3 neurologic toxicity was rare (6%) in patients experiencing long-term survival. Dose-escalated chemoRT resulted in lower rates of central recurrence and prolonged time to progression compared to historical controls, although a significant number of central recurrences were still observed. Advanced imaging and correlative molecular studies may enable targeted treatment advances that reduce rates of in- and out-of-field progression.
Decentralized decision making with common goals

Abstract Decentralized decision making can conserve on information transfers and achieve an efficient outcome. However, if the separate agents have selfish objectives, principal-agent problems can eliminate the gains from decentralization. Even if agents do not have selfish interests and act to maximize some common goals, difficulties can exist. In such circumstances, an altruists' dilemma may be said to arise. This paper considers a number of contexts in which various problems arise even though agents do not have selfish interests. The main one involves separate regulators setting prices for interrelated industries in order to maximize the same welfare function. The outcome arising when a single regulator chooses prices is also an equilibrium in the case with separate regulators but other inefficient equilibria also exist, especially if each regulator does not correctly account for the constraint of the other. The extent of the inefficiency depends upon the choice variables of the regulators as well as on their information about each other. In designing decentralized systems, the central authority might try to specify the strategy spaces of the separate agents to minimize the coordination problems.