cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Facultative hyperparasitism by the egg parasitoid Trichogramma pretiosum (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae)

The egg parasitoid Trichogramma pretiosum Riley facultatively hyperparasitized the larvae of Telenomus heliothidis Ashmead, an egg parasitoid of Heliothis virescens (F.). At 27°C, T. heliothidis larvae were most vulnerable to hyperparasitism between 80 and 96 h of age. T. pretiosum which emerged from T. heliothidis were fecund and of equal size to T. pretiosum from H. virescens. However, T. pretiosum emergence was 1 day later from T. heliothidis than from H. virescens controls. T. pretiosum oviposition in T. heliothidis resulted in liquefactive necrosis of the hyperparasitized host.
Philip Levine award lecture. Blood group antigens as markers for normal differentiation and malignant change in human tissues.

Les antigenes des groupes sanguins A, B, H et Lewis representent une famille de specificites qui servent de marqueurs allogeniques, ontogeniques et de differenciation. Leur expression est regie par la constitution genetique au sujet et dans chaque tissu par l'action des produits geniques secretoires et d'autres mecanismes de controle. Dans les affections malignes nombre de ces controles normaux sont desorganises, entrainant une modification de l'expression des specificites des groupes sanguins
Fluid substitution for an HTI medium

The general equations for fluid dependency of the elastic moduli of anisotropic media were first given by Gassmann (1951). For the case of an HTI medium, Gurevich (2003) derived the explicit equations based on a linear-slip model. Gurevich’s complex equations are recast here in a more accessible format. Those equations depend on four parameters: λ , μ , δN and δT . They are quite similar to the well-known isotropic Gassmann’s equations. We also propose a valid method for the application of these equations.
Predicting Levels of Policy Advocacy Engagement Among Acute-Care Health Professionals.

This study aims to describe the factors that predict health professionals' engagement in policy advocacy. The researchers used a cross-sectional research design with a sample of 97 nurses, 94 social workers, and 104 medical residents from eight hospitals in Los Angeles. Bivariate correlations explored whether seven predictor scales were associated with health professionals' policy advocacy engagement and revealed that five of the eight factors were significantly associated with it (p < .05). The factors include patient advocacy engagement, eagerness, skills, tangible support, and organizational receptivity. Regression analysis examined whether the seven scales, when controlling for sociodemographic variables and hospital site, predicted levels of policy advocacy engagement. Results revealed that patient advocacy engagement (p < .001), eagerness (p < .001), skills (p < .01), tangible support (p < .01), perceived effectiveness (p < .05), and organizational receptivity (p < .05) all predicted health professional's policy advocacy engagement. Ethical commitment did not predict policy advocacy engagement. The model explained 36% of the variance in policy advocacy engagement. Limitations of the study and its implications for future research, practice, and policy are discussed.
Simple Transform Method of Algebra Equivalent Observer for Higher-order Inertial Element

For the rapid calculation of what the parameters of AEO having effect on the control system,based on the actual application of the algebra equivalent observer of higher-order inertial element,and according to the matrix of standard type of the Jordan's,a matrix block JBS of Jordan standard type in board sense is defined.A simple calculation method of the transform matrix P is given by mathematical analysis.So an effective method for open out the inherent relation of algebra equivalent observer is presented.This method not only helps to designing of the regulative system,but also can achieve a more beneficial effect by using appropriately.The practicality and validity of the method proposed is testified by an application case of 600 MW unit's boiler super-heater steam temperature control system in a power plant.
A comprehensive approach to sexual and transgender prejudice

ABSTRACTPrejudice and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals continues to have a detrimental impact on the mental health of this population. Research examining commonalities and uniqueness among negative attitudes toward specific sexual and gender minority groups is extremely limited. The authors propose that research examining sexual prejudice include attitudes toward diverse subgroups within the larger LGBTQ community in order to facilitate development of underlying constructs and identify unique contributing factors. Common and unique factors identified within existing research are organized into categorical themes, which are delineated in a conceptual factor model of sexual and transgender prejudice.
Modeling semantic knowledge structures for creative problem solving

This paper presents a model for semantic network representation. According to the model, the main purpose of a semantic network is to help to correctly and quickly understand the features and structure of the solutions, and then make reliable predictions about their outcomes and rewards. These objectives are achieved under constrains like limited resources (e.g., memory size and access), time limitations, and variations of solution characteristics. The paper summarizes the elements of the model and presents a set of properties that describe the effectiveness of semantic networks in creative problem solving, including design. Six examples (based on three case studies from the related literature and three experimental studies conducted by the authors) discuss the model elements, characteristics, and properties.
Marine scientific research in Pacific Small Island Developing States

Abstract Promoting the study of the marine environment is one of the objectives of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS or the Convention), which constitutes the first comprehensive multilateral agreement covering all ocean spaces and embodying the concept of sustainable development by addressing all dimensions of ocean uses, including environmental, economic and social. At the core of the provisions of UNCLOS related to marine scientific research (MSR) lie the promotion of such research, international cooperation and the creation of favourable conditions for the conduct of MSR, as well as the publication and dissemination of information and knowledge resulting from such research. For Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS), the ability to undertake and benefit from MSR and access appropriate technology represents a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to their sustainable development aspirations. However, many challenges remain for PSIDS to fully benefit from MSR and the opportunities associated with the development of a ‘Blue Economy’. This article reviews the challenges and opportunities for PSIDS arising from MSR, including with regard to the implementation of the relevant provisions of UNCLOS.
Nutritional care in adult inflammatory bowel disease

Nutritional deficiencies are common in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease. Assessment of the nutritional status should be part of the comprehensive care of these patients. Failure to address the nutritional deficiencies can result in poor quality of life and poor outcomes with the medical and surgical therapies. Identification and treatment of specific deficiencies are thus an integral part in the therapy of inflammatory bowel disease. This article addresses the assessment and management of the nutritional state of adult inflammatory bowel disease patients.
Exploring Non-Linear Effects of Political Institutions on Economic Institutions

Recent research has explored the determinants of economic freedom, an important measure of institutional quality. Elsewhere, some scholars have posited a negative relationship between the quality of economic institutions and democracy, at very high levels of democracy. This paper disaggregates the Polity IV index into a vector of twenty dummy variables to understand how differing degrees of democracy and autocracy may impact economic freedom, thereby leaving open the possibilities for non-linearities to express themselves in the analysis. Little evidence is found of any relationship in the long run, except possibly that very autocratic political institutions may have a negative effect.
Validation of the AAST EGS acute cholecystitis grade and comparison with the Tokyo guidelines

Abstract Background Acute cholecystitis presents with heterogeneous severity. The Tokyo Guidelines 2013 is a validated method to assess cholecystitis severity, but the variables are multifactorial. The American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) developed an anatomically based severity grading system for surgical diseases, including cholecystitis. Because the Tokyo Guidelines represent the gold standard to estimate acute cholecystitis severity, we wished to validate the AAST emergency general surgery scoring system and compare the performance of both systems for several patient outcomes. Methods Adults (≥18 years) with acute cholecystitis during 2013–2016 were identified. Baseline demographic characteristics, comorbidity severity as defined by Charlson Comorbidity Index score, procedure types, and AAST and Tokyo Guidelines 2013 grades were abstracted. Outcomes included duration of stay, 30-day mortality, and complications. Comparison of the Tokyo Guidelines and AAST grading system was performed using receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve C statistics. Results There were 443 patients, with a mean (±standard deviation) age of 64.8 (±18) years, 59% male. The median (interquartile ratio) Charlson Comorbidity score was 3 (0–6). Management included laparoscopic (n = 307, 69.3%), open (n = 26, 6%), laparoscopy converted to laparotomy (n = 53, 12%), and cholecystostomy (n = 57, 12.7%). Comparison of AAST with Tokyo Guidelines AUROC C statistics indicated (P Conclusion Emergency general surgery grading systems improve disease severity assessment, may improve documentation, and guide management. Discrimination of disease severity using the AAST grading system outperforms the Tokyo Guidelines for key clinical outcomes. The AAST grading system requires prospective validation and further comparison.
The Relationship of Slow Axonal Flow to Nerve Elongation and Degeneration

After an axon is injured, the segment distal to the lesion degenerates. The fate of the proximal segment containing the cell bodies is more complex; depending on various factors, the injury can induce cell death or promote axonal regeneration. The succession of events leading to either death or survival remains obscure, and their relative importance has been questioned. Recent investigations appear to downplay the chromatolytic reaction of the perikaryon as a necessary step for regeneration or at least for sprouting (Carlsen et al., 1982; Grafstein, 1983) and suggest that changes taking place in the axon itself might have a major influence on the regenerative as well as distal degenerative processes (Lanners and Grafstein, 1980; Lasek, 1981; Morris and Lasek, 1982; Lasek and Morris, 1982; McQuarrie, 1983).
Quantum query algorithms and lower bounds

Many quantum algorithms can be analyzed in a query (oracle) model where input is given by a black box that answers queries and the complexity of the algorithm is measured by the number of queries to the black box that it uses. We survey the main results and techniques in this model, with an emphasis on lower bound methods.
Bladder injuries associated with cesarean section

Abstract Bladder injury during cesarean section is unusual and may occur by failure to empty the bladder preoperatively, inadequate bladder flap reflection or incision into the vagina rather than the lower uterine segment. Three bladder injuries during cesarean section are reported. Although 2 women recovered normally 1 has persistent vesicoureteral reflux. With liberalization of indications for cesarean section bladder injuries may be seen more frequently.
Association of chemotherapy and radiotherapy sequence with overall survival in locoregionally advanced endometrial cancer.

Abstract Objective The optimal adjuvant management of women with FIGO Stage III-IVA endometrial cancer (EC) is unclear. While recent prospective data suggest that treatment with pelvic radiotherapy (RT) prior to chemotherapy (CT) is not associated with a survival benefit compared to CT alone, no prospective randomized trial has included a treatment arm in which CT is given before RT. Methods An observational cohort study was performed on women with FIGO Stage III-IVA Type 1 (grade 1–2, endometrioid) EC who underwent hysterectomy and received multi-agent CT and/or RT from 2004 to 2014 at Commission on Cancer-accredited hospitals. Multivariable parametric accelerated failure time models were performed to estimate the association of sequence of adjuvant CT and RT with overall survival (OS) using propensity score-adjusted matched cohorts. Results Of 5795 women identified, 1260 (21.7%) received RT only, 2465 (42.5%) received CT only, 593 (9.7%) received RT before CT, and 1506 (26.0%) received RT after CT. Women who received RT after CT experienced significantly longer 5-year OS than women who received RT before CT (5-year OS: 80.1% vs 73.3%; time-ratio (TR) = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.18–1.58, P Conclusions For women with advanced EC, treatment with multi-agent CT followed by RT is associated with longer OS compared with treatment with RT followed by CT or either treatment alone. These hypothesis-generating data support inclusion in future prospective trials of regimens in which multi-agent CT starts prior to RT.
Law Libraries Embracing AI

The utilization of AI provides insights for legal clients, future-proofs careers for attorneys and law librarians, and elevates the status of the information suite. AI training in law schools makes students more practice-ready in an increasingly tech-centric legal environment; Access to Justice initiatives are embracing AI’s capabilities to provide guidance to educational resources and legal services for the under-represented. AI’s presence in the legal community is becoming so common that it can no longer been seen as an anomaly, or even cutting edge. Some even argue that its absence in law firms will eventually be akin to malpractice. This chapter explores some practical uses of AI in legal education and law firms, with a focus on professionals who have gone beyond the role of AI consumers to that of AI developers, data curators and system designers.
Implementing Aided Augmentative Communication Systems With Persons Having Complex Communicative Needs

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems can support communication skills for people with significant developmental disabilities who experience complex communication needs (CCNs). T...
Inclusiveness and ethical considerations for observational, translational, and clinical cancer health disparity research.

Background Although general trends in cancer outcomes are improving, racial/ethnic disparities in patient outcomes continue to widen, suggesting disparity-related shortcomings in cancer research designs. Methods Using convenience sampling, a total of 24 data sources, representing several research designs and 5 high-burden tumor types, were included for analyses. The percentages of races/ethnicities across each design/tumor type were compared with those of the 2017 US Census data. The authors used a framework based on the Belmont principles to evaluate the ethical strengths and/or weaknesses of each design. Results In all designs, white individuals were found to be overrepresented. African American and Asian individuals were underrepresented, and Native Americans had consistently poor or no representation. In general, ethical concerns varied according to the study design. Clinical trials were high with regard to respect for persons and beneficence but low for equitable subject selection related to the inclusion of race/ethnicity. Observational study designs were more inclusive for race/ethnicity compared with clinical and translational studies, but their clinical usefulness was less. Conclusions The authors proposed that ethical concerns should vary according to the study design. Because observational designs have strengths in inclusiveness for race/ethnicity, their clinical usefulness can be improved by extending the Learning Health System in hospital catchment populations, the use of health records linked to biospecimens, and minority oversampling. Likewise, minority enrollment into clinical trials can be improved through Learning Health System linking and by using National Cancer Institute-mandated Community Outreach and Engagement Cores. This will allow precision medicine for otherwise overlooked minority subgroups.
Fracture and fatigue of the surface layer of layered media due to adhesive sliding contact

Abstract Layer cracking in a layered medium consisting of an elastic-perfectly plastic half-space (substrate) and a relatively stiff, elastic surface layer in adhesive sliding contact with a rigid asperity was analyzed with the finite element method using linear elastic fracture mechanics. The directions of tensile and shear mode fracture were determined from the maximum tensile and shear stress intensity factors (SIFs), respectively, whereas the directions of tensile and shear mode fatigue crack growth were determined from the maximum range of tensile and shear SIFs, respectively. The effects of asperity position, interfacial adhesion (Maugis parameter), crack depth, asperity interaction distance, layer thickness, and material properties of the elastic layer and the elastic-plastic substrate on fracture and fatigue crack growth in the layer are interpreted in the context of simulation results. It is shown that the propensity for fracture and fatigue in the layer is enhanced with increasing asperity interaction distance and Maugis parameter and decreasing crack depth and layer thickness. The numerical results of this study reveal that, for similar tensile and shear fracture toughness, layer fracture in adhesive sliding contact predominantly occurs by the out-of-plane tensile mode of fracture, whereas fatigue crack growth in the layer is a manifestation of the in-plane shear and out-of-plane tensile modes of fatigue crack growth.
2D Azimuthal Space for Au + Au Mid-Central Collisions at $\sqrt{s_{NN}} =$ 200 GeV

In this paper we will show that one can summarize the major two particle reaction plane azimuthal correlations for Au + Au mid-central collisions at $\sqrt{s_{NN}} =$ 200 GeV by defining a 2D azimuthal space which is a summary of the event by event average.
Role of Imaging in the Management of Patients with Potentially Resectable CRLM

Imaging studies are integral for the identification of potential surgical candidates and planning hepatic resection in patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Modalities such as ultrasound (US), multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) are used for CRLM and hepatic assessment. This chapter will discuss the current role of these imaging modalities in the management of patients with potentially resectable CRLM.
Familien von anfallskranken Kindern

Die Epilepsie eines Kinds hat nicht nur unmittelbare Auswirkungen auf das erkrankte Kind selbst, sondern beeinflusst seine gesamte Familie, insbesondere die Eltern. Es wird ein Uberblick zu den verschiedenen psychosozialen Auswirkungen der Epilepsie von Kindern auf deren Familien gegeben. Der Uberblick basiert auf einer Auswahl an Primarstudien, die v. a. durch eine PubMed-Literaturrecherche ermittelt wurden. Neben unterschiedlichsten Sorgen, einem hohen Unterstutzungsbedarf und psychischen Beeintrachtigungen auf Seiten der Eltern fuhrt die Epilepsie eines Kinds oft auch zu Belastungen der Geschwisterkinder und der intrafamiliaren Beziehungen. Zudem finden sich sehr haufig Einschrankungen im Alltags- und Sozialleben der betroffenen Familien. Ein wichtiger Einflussfaktor fur die familiaren Belastungen sind zusatzliche Verhaltens- oder Gesundheitsprobleme des Kinds. Ein interdisziplinares Behandlungskonzept fur Kinder und Jugendliche mit Epilepsie sollte die erkrankungsbedingten Belastungen der Familie berucksichtigen und gegebenenfalls psychosoziale Unterstutzung anbieten.
At the forefront of racial tolerance?: African-Americans and high school football in Iowa in the 1930s

In the upper Midwest, at least until the late 1930s, there was a modest presence of black athletes in American football and track and field in particular, with a smaller number in basketball and ot...
The Anomalous Physical Properties of RESn3 and (LaRE)Sn3 Compounds and Alloys

The purpose of this paper is to provide a short perspective on the available body of data concerning the physical properties of RESn3 compounds and (LaRE)Sn3 alloys.
Not winging it at Hooters: Conventions for producing a cultural object of sexual fantasy

Abstract This analysis elaborates the significance of gender within the production of culture by examining the experiences of women who produce the cultural object of Hooters Girl. The Hooters Girl is manufactured like other cultural wares – but the Hooters Girl herself is simultaneously human and material. Based on semi-structured interviews with current and former Hooters Girls, we illustrate the ways such cultural objects are reciprocally constitutive of (gendered) cultural and interactional expectations, organizational expectations about production, and the ways the producer internalizes and reproduces these expectations. We have labeled this form of cultural object “producer-as-object-as-producer” (PaOaP). Our analysis identifies several gendered conventions that shape the production process; the women who produce the Hooters Girl come to embody the conventions for producing “her” including the very specific, sexualized aspects of the gender structure upon which Hooters trades. As a culture industry, Hooters is successful precisely because it capitalizes on – and exports – a version of heteronormative femininity and sexuality that resonates with masculinist conceptions of women's sexual attractiveness.
MARKET CONCENTRATION IN THE AIR FREIGHT FORWARDING INDUSTRY: MARKET CONCENTRATION IN THE AIR FREIGHT FORWARDING INDUSTRY

A rapid increase in the level of market concentration in the supply chain management industries has created firms that enjoy the economies of scale and scope necessary to offer multinational clients integrated services on a worldwide basis. This paper examines how changes in the structure of the freight forwarding industry have affected the nature of the services the industry offers across several Southeast Asian economies. The paper focuses on the role that large global forwarders have played in bringing advanced logistics services, especially those linked to the air freight industry, to this industrialising region. Data is used from interviews with over 100 freight forwarders in Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines to examine both the geographic variation in the provision of air cargo services and the manner in which the types of services a forwarder offers vary with firm size.
The Chinese Remainder Theorem

The Chinese remainder theorem is so named because it was known to the ancient Chinese. In its original form, it is good for solving problems, as we’ll see in the exercises. But suitably reinterpreted, it is a powerful tool for helping us understand how numbers relate in different moduli. As a first application, it yields a nice proof of a formula for Euler’s phi-function.
The Divergent Dynamics of Economic Growth: Do Economies Diverge? Economic Development in the Very Long Run

Our purpose here is to describe and illustrate in the simplest possible way a multiple-phase theory of economic growth and development that helps explain why human evolution has not been characterized by steady progress but by fluctuating growth and changing forms, sometimes progressing to higher levels of complexity and sometimes reverting to earlier stages of organization. In the form outlined here (in terms of macroeconomic growth theory) it is convenient to think of the analysis as involving the “very long run.” But for reasons that will be suggested in the conclusion, the very long run is of great interest for interpreting events in the “very short run,” in particular the processes of integration and disintegration currently at work in the world. Moreover, we can propose with some confidence an answer to the question posed in the title of this chapter. Yes, indeed, economies diverge!
Using Augmented Infinitesimal Perturbation Analysis forCapacity Planning in Intree ATM Networks

Augmented Infinitesimal Perturbation Analysis is used to determine asymptotically unbiased and strong consistent gradient estimates for use in the capacity planning of intree ATM networks. These gradients are used to determine the locally optimal minimum average network delay by applying a steepest descent algorithm with projection and an Armijo line search to solve the capacity assignment (CA) problem. The network capacities are governed by a linear cost constraint. It is assumed that input regulators (e.g., leaky bucket regulators) are used at the source of each virtual circuit. All virtual circuit external arrivals are modeled as independent Poisson processes. Regenerative simulation is used to determine gradient estimates.
Should Congress Repeal Securities Class Action Reform

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 was designed to curtail class action law-suits by the plaintiffs bar. In particular, the high-technology industry, accountants, and investment bankers thought that they had been unjustly victimized by class action lawsuits based on little more than declines in a company's stock price. Prior to 1995, the plaintiffs' bar had free rein to use the discovery process to troll for evidence to support its claims. Moreover, the high costs of litigation were a powerful weapon with which to coerce companies to settle claims. The plaintiffs' bar and its allies in Congress have called for a repeal or modification of the PSLRA. This paper evaluates the operation of class action lawsuits before and after the act. The hard evidence does not support repealing the PSLRA. In fact, securities class actions are being filed at a record pace. And although a higher percentage of these lawsuits is being dismissed now than before the act, the ones that survive lead to larger settlements. The PSLRA raised the standard required before plaintiffs' attorneys could drag a defendant company through the expense of discovery. The lawsuits that meet this higher standard are likely to be less frivolous and are consequently worth more in settlement negotiations. The combination of higher settlements and a smaller percentage of such cases getting to trial suggests that the class action lawsuits under the PSLRA are doing a more cost-effective job of deterring corporate fraud. This conclusion is bolstered by the fact that post-PSLRA complaints have more particularized allegations that are more highly correlated with factors related to fraud. In short, the PSLRA is working well, although not as well as intended, and there do not appear to be grounds to either repeal or significantly amend it. A better course for reform would be to change the damages remedy in securities fraud class actions to focus on deterrence.
Demographic, psychosocial, and genetic risk associated with smokeless tobacco use among Mexican heritage youth

Despite well-established negative health consequences of smokeless tobacco use (STU), the number and variety of alternative non-combustible tobacco products on the market have increased tremendously over the last 10 years, as has the market share of these products relative to cigarettes. While STU among non-Hispanic white youth has decreased over the last 10 years, the prevalence has remained constant among Hispanic youth. Here we examine demographic, psychosocial, and genetic risk associated with STU among Mexican heritage youth. Participants (50.5 % girls) reported on psychosocial risk factors in 2008–09 (n = 1,087, mean age = 14.3 years), and smokeless tobacco use in 2010–11 (mean age = 16.7 years). Participants provided a saliva sample that was genotyped for genes in the dopamine, serotonin and opioid pathways. Overall 62 (5.7 %) participants reported lifetime STU. We identified five single nucleotide polymorphisms that increased the risk for lifetime use. Specifically, rs2023902 on SERGEF (OR = 1.93; 95 % CI: 1.05-3.53), rs16941667 on ALDH2 (OR = 3.14; 95 % CI: 1.65-5.94), and rs17721739 on TPH1 (OR = 1.71; 95 % CI: 1.00-2.91) in the dopamine pathway, rs514912 on TRH-DE (OR = 1.84; 95 % CI: 1.25-2.71) in the serotonin pathway, and rs42451417 on the serotonin transporter gene, SLC6A4 (OR = 3.53; 95 % CI: 1.56-7.97). After controlling for genetic risk, being male (OR = 1.86; 95 % CI: 1.02-3.41), obesity status (OR = 2.22; 95 % CI: 1.21-4.09), and both higher levels of anxiety (OR = 1.04; 95 % CI: 1.01-1.08) and social disinhibition (OR = 1.26; 95 % CI: 1.07-1.48) were associated with increased use. High subjective social status (OR = 0.78; 95 % CI: 0.64-0.93) was protective against use, while higher parental education (OR = 2.01; 95 % CI: 1.03-3.93) was associated with increased use. These data suggest that use of genetic risk, along with psychosocial, demographic, and behavioral risk factors may increase our ability to identify youth at increased risk for STU, which in turn may improve our ability to effectively target prevention messages to Mexican heritage youth.
Relating CEO Compensation to Social Performance and Financial Performance: Does the Measure of Compensation Matter?

Remuneration to executives has risen sharply, even during the recent economic decline and financial crisis, giving rise to public outcries and harsh criticism. At the same time, there has been a shift toward more performance-based remuneration, which is generally awarded over the long term. Coincident with these observations is an evolving literature aimed at studying executive pay and its determinants to learn if a pay-for-performance link exists. Although most studies focus on corporate financial performance (CFP) as a compensation determinant, which is based on shareholder theory, others broaden performance to include activities linked to corporate social responsibility (CSR), which relies on stakeholder theory. In this latter case, a nexus is identified between the pay-for-performance relationship and that between CFP and corporate social performance (CSP). In this research, we use a system of equations to form this connection and examine the influence of short-term versus long-term compensation measures on the resulting interrelationships. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Theory of transport in liquid metals: III. Calculation of shear viscosity coefficients of binary alloys

Abstract A theoretical procedure for the calculation of the shear viscosity coefficients of liquid binary alloys is proposed based on the simulation of an alloy by a hypothetical single-component hard-sphere liquid and treatment of the latter according to a corrected Enskog approach. The Enskog result is corrected according to a corresponding states principles developed by the authors in a previous work. The pair correlation function at contact necessary for the Enskog calculation is obtained from the solution of the Carnahan and Starling equation of state for single component hard-sphere fluids. The proposed theory is tested numerically by comparing its viscosity results for fifteen alloys with experimental data and with the corresponding results of the Eyring approach and the Tham and Gubbins theory. The latter theory is implemented numerically with pair-correlation values at contact satisfying exactly the Carnahan and Starling equation of state for binary hard-sphere fluids. These values result from analytic and closed-form expressions for the pair-correlation function developed presently through a correction of the corresponding Lebowitz expressions.
Targeting cardiac fibrosis: a new frontier in antiarrhythmic therapy?

Cardiac fibrosis is known to alter cardiac conduction and promote reentry. Recent evidence indicates that fibrosis characterized by increased interstitial collagen accumulation and increased myofibroblast proliferation also promotes enhanced automaticity and early afterdepolarizations (EADs) causing triggered activity. Fibrosis then becomes an effective therapeutic target for the management of lethal cardiac arrhythmias. While oxidative stress with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is shown to readily promote EADs and triggered activity in isolated rat and rabbit ventricular myocytes however, this same stress fails to cause EADs in well-coupled, non-fibrotic hearts due to source-to-sink mismatches arising from cell-to-cell coupling. The triggered activity in the aged fibrotic hearts causes focal ventricular tachycardia (VT) that degenerates within seconds to ventricular fibrillation (VF) after the emergence of spatially discordant action potential duration alternans leading to wavebreak, reentry and VF. Computer simulations in 2D tissue incorporating variable degrees of fibrosis showed that intermediate (but not mild or very severe) fibrosis promoted EADs and TA. Human studies have shown that myocardial fibrosis was an independent predictor for arrhythmias including sustained VT and VF. A variety of drug classes including, torsemide, a loop diuretic, that inhibits the enzyme involved in the myocardial extracellular generation of collagen type I molecules and the inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), the mineralocorticoid receptors and endothelin receptors reduce cardiac fibrosis with reduction of myocardial stiffness and improved ventricular function. It is hoped that in the near future effective antifibrotic drug regimen would be developed to reduce the risk of fibrosis related VT and VF.
Next Generation Science Standards: Preparing students for careers in energy-related fields

Abstract The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) represent a new approach to teaching K-12 science education that involves the interweaving of three educational dimensions: science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, and crosscutting concepts. Unlike most preexisting state science standards for public education, these new standards focus on what students can do and not on what they have memorized. The NGSS were motivated by the awareness within business and industry of the great need for better education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to meet future workforce demands for a global economy that is shifting toward higher technology levels. The Next Generation Science Standards were the result of an effort led by states, with 26 participating states involved in the writing. So far, the standards have been adopted in full by 14 states and the District of Columbia and have been adopted in part by several additional states and a large number of school districts i...
Protection by Taurine and Thiotaurine Against Biochemical and Cellular Alterations Induced by Diabetes in a Rat Model

In this study, the actions of taurine (TAU), a sulfonate, and thiotaurine (TTAU), a thiosulfonate, on diabetes-mediated biochemical alterations in red blood cells (RBCs) and plasma and on the RBC membrane, morphology and spectrin distribution were examined in rats. Diabetes was induced in male Sprague–Dawley rats with streptozotocin (60 mg/kg i.p.) and allowed to progress for 14 days. From days to 56, the rats received a daily, 2.4 mmol/kg, oral dose of TAU or TTAU, 2 mL oral dose of physiological saline or 4 U/kg subcutaneous dose of isophane insulin (INS). Naive rats served as the control group. The rats were sacrificed on day 57 and their blood was collected to measure HbA1c, to isolate intact RBCs, and to obtain plasma. A 6-weeks treatment with INS effectively lowered the elevations in plasma glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and plasma and RBC malondialdehyde and glutathione disulfide while effectively counteracting the decreases in plasma INS, plasma and RBC glutathione redox status, and plasma and RBC activities of antioxidant enzymes caused by diabetes. Also, INS returned the echynocytic appearance and peripheral location of spectrin seen in RBCs from diabetic rats to the normal discocytic shape and uniform distribution. TAU and TTAU were as effective as INS in inhibiting malondialdehyde formation, changes in redox status and oxidative stress in both the plasma and RBC, but were much less effective in controlling hyperglycemia and hypoinsulinemia. Furthermore TTAU was more effective than INS or TAU in lowering the increase in cholesterol to phospholipids ratio in the RBC membrane and, unlike TAU, it was able to normalize the RBC morphology and spectrin distribution.
Repelling the “Rutter”: Social Differentiation Among Rural Teenagers

This paper examines low-income white rural teenagers' management of race and class-based inequality. It analyzes how these teenagers constructed boundaries to distinguish themselves from outsiders, but also to distinguish themselves from the local abject category of “rutter.” The findings reveal hidden interconnections between race and class in interactional practice, and highlight local processes of differentiation through which actors attempt to deflect stigma and attain credibility. The paper discusses how interactional mechanisms such as “internal othering” and “stigma-theory” bolster race and class credibility, but reproduce inequality.
Geometry of repeated measurements in chaotic systems

We use joint probability matrices for measurements at different times to describe chaotic systems. By coarse graining the range of the measured variable into uniformly sized bins we can generate matrices that contain both topological and metric information about the systems being studied. Armed with this tool we examine two extreme families of chaotic systems. In the case of one-dimensional piecewise linear maps, we can construct transfer matrices that depend on the map and partition used, and which allow us to generate the respective joint probability matrices for all times as well as the exact time evolution of the mutual information function. We find that the mutual information decays linearly or exponentially depending on whether the second-largest eigenvalue of the transfer matrix is zero or not. In the case of three-dimensional, continuous-time chaotic systems we generate the joint probability matrices directly from numerical data. We show that these matrices directly provide attractor reconstructions with information about the attractor's probability measure.
A case-control study of robot-assisted type III radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection compared with open radical hysterectomy

Objective The purpose of this study was to compare robotically assisted hysterectomy (RAH) with open (ORH) type III radical hysterectomy in the treatment of early-stage cervical cancer. Study Design The outcomes of 51 consecutive patients who underwent RAH were compared with the outcomes of 49 patients who underwent ORH. Results There were no differences with regard to patient demographics. There were significant differences between the groups with regard to operative blood loss ( P P = .0002), and lymph node retrieval ( P = .0003), all of which were in favor of the RAH cohort. All patients with RAH were discharged on postoperative day 1, compared with a 3.2-day average hospitalization for the cohort with ORH. The incidence of postoperative complications was 7.8% and 16.3% for the RAH and ORH cohorts, respectively ( P = .35). Conclusion Robotic type III radical hysterectomy with pelvic node dissection is feasible and may be preferable over open radical hysterectomy in patients with early-stage cervical cancer. Further study will determine procedure generalizability and long-term oncologic outcomes.
On functional central limit theorems for certain continuous time parameter stochastic processes

Abstract Weak invariance principles for certain continuous time parameter stochastic processes (including martingales and reverse martingales) are considered. Weak convergence in the sup-norm metric is also studied.
Application of a coordinated trajectory planning and real-time obstacle avoidance algorithm

A novel method for coordinated trajectory planning and real-time obstacle avoidance of autonomous systems is presented. The desired autonomous system trajectories are generated from a set of first order ODEs. The solution to this system of ODEs converges to either a desired target position or a closed orbit defined by a limit cycle. Coordinated control is achieved by utilizing the nature of limit cycles where independent, non-crossing paths are automatically generated from different initial positions that smoothly converge to the desired closed orbits. Real-time obstacle avoidance is achieved by specifying a transitional elliptically shaped closed orbit around the nearest obstacle blocking the path. This orbit determines an alternate trajectory that avoids the obstacle. When the obstacle no longer blocks a direct path to the original target trajectory, a transitional trajectory that returns to the original path is defined. The coordination and obstacle avoidance methods are demonstrated experimentally using differential-drive wheeled mobile robots.
EFFECTS OF IMMEDIATE SELF-CORRECTION, DELAYED SELF-CORRECTION, AND NO CORRECTION ON THE ACQUISITION AND MAINTENANCE OF MULTIPLICATION FACTS BY A FOURTH-GRADE STUDENT WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES

This study compared the effects of immediate self-correction, delayed self-correction, and no correction on the acquisition and maintenance of multiplication facts by a fourth-grade student with learning disabilities. Data from daily and maintenance tests indicated that both correct response rate and accuracy were higher when self-correction was immediate rather than delayed or absent.
Characteristics of Gamma-ray Line Flares as Observed in Hard X-ray Emissions and Other Phenomena

Observations of gamma-ray lines from solar flares by SMM demonstrated that energetic protons and heavy ions are accelerated during the impulsive phase. In order to understand the acceleration mechanism for gamma-ray producing protons and heavy ions, we have studied the characteristics of the flares from which gamma-ray lines were observed by SMM. In order to identify the characteristics unique to the gamma-ray line flares, we have also studied intense hard X-ray flares with no gamma-ray line emissions. We have found the following characteristics: 1) Most of the gamma-ray line flares produced intense radio bursts of types II and IV. 2) For most of the gamma-ray line flares, the time profiles of high-energy (≳300 keV) hard X-rays are delayed by order of several seconds with respect to those of low-energy hard X-rays. The delay times seem to be correlated with the spatial sizes of the flares. 3) In Hα importance, the gamma-ray line flares range from sub-flares to importance-3 flares. 4) The hard X-ray spectra of the gamma-ray line flares are generally flatter (harder) than those of flares with no gamma-ray line emission.
Development of a Linked Perinatal Data Resource From State Administrative and Community-Based Program Data

To demonstrate a generalizable approach for developing maternal-child health data resources using state administrative records and community-based program data. We used a probabilistic and deterministic linking strategy to join vital records, hospital discharge records, and home visiting data for a population-based cohort of at-risk, first time mothers enrolled in a regional home visiting program in Southwestern Ohio and Northern Kentucky from 2007 to 2010. Because data sources shared no universal identifier, common identifying elements were selected and evaluated for discriminating power. Vital records then served as a hub to which other records were linked. Variables were recoded into clinically significant categories and a cross-set of composite analytic variables was constructed. Finally, individual-level data were linked to corresponding area-level measures by census tract using the American Communities Survey. The final data set represented 2,330 maternal-infant pairs with both home visiting and vital records data. Of these, 56 pairs (2.4 %) did not link to either maternal or infant hospital discharge records. In a 10 % validation subset (n = 233), 100 % of the reviewed matches between home visiting data and vital records were true matches. Combining multiple data sources provided more comprehensive details of perinatal health service utilization and demographic, clinical, psychosocial, and behavioral characteristics than available from a single data source. Our approach offers a template for leveraging disparate sources of data to support a platform of research that evaluates the timeliness and reach of home visiting as well as its association with key maternal-child health outcomes.
Sexual harassment proclivities in men and women

Sexual harassment proclivities in both men and women were studied in 222 college students. They were administered the newly developed Sexual Harassment Proclivities Scale and their scores were compared with a large number of measures, including sex-role stereotyping, adversarial sexual beliefs, sexual conservatism, acceptance of interpersonal violence, rape myth acceptance, likelihood of rape, acceptance of feminism, empathetic concern, sexual activity, and sexual exploitation. Most of the results were statistically significant for both males and females, although correlations tended to be higher for males. A factor analysis of the Sexual Harassment Proclivities Scale yielded a one-factor solution for both men and women, supporting the view that the scale measures likelihood of sexual harassment.