cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Application of eddy currents induced by permanent magnets for pipeline inspection

This paper presents an alternative to the common concentric coil method to induce low-frequency eddy currents in ferromagnetic pipe and tubes. Pairs of permanent magnets rotating around the central axis of these cylinders in proximity of the surface can be used to induce high current densities in the material that is the object of the inspection. Anomalies and wall thickness variations are detected with an array of sensors that measure local changes in the magnetic field produced by the current flowing in the material. This electromagnetic technology is being developed for pipeline inspection platforms that either crawl slowly inside a pipe to maneuver past physical barriers or are pushed by flexible rods. These devices move down the pipeline independent of the product flow, and potentially stop for detailed defect assessment. Fundamental finite element modeling analysis and experimental investigations performed during this development have led to the derivation of a first-order analytical equation for designing rotating exciters and positioning sensors. The rotating permanent magnet system has the potential for broader application because the sensor configurations can be small in physical size, allowing them to pass obstructions that currently prevent inspection using available NDE implementations.
Analysis of production control methods for semiconductor research and development fabs using simulation

A semiconductor company must bring technology to the market as soon as its application is deemed feasible to be a leader in the industry. The goal of this paper is to investigate production control methods in semiconductor R&D fabs to minimize the time to market for the aforementioned technology. Simulation models of a representative R&D fab are run with different levels of bottleneck utilization, lot priorities, primary and secondary dispatching strategies and due date tightness as treatment combinations in a formally designed experiment. The fab performance measures are percent on time delivery, average cycle time, standard deviation of cycle time and average work-in-process. Fab characteristics are found to influence the application of dispatching rules. However, several dispatching rules are found to be robust across performance measures.
Clot Lysis of Variant Recombinant Fibrinogens Confirms that Fiber Diameter is a Major Determinant of Lysis Rate

Previous studies have suggested that clots with thinner fiber diameter lyse at slower rates than clots with thicker fiber diameter. We examined lysis of fibrin clots formed from three variant fibrinogens, each with substitutions in the N-terminal region of the B beta chain. When we measured lysis as the rate of decrease in turbidity at 350 nm, we found that the rate of lysis was slower than normal for clots with thinner fibers. We noted, however, that the time to complete lysis was the same for all clots. Thus, when the data were considered as the percent of lysis with time, we found that the curves were the same as normal. We suggest that a complete and accurate characterization of clot dissolution requires comparison of normalized lysis rates.
Leveraging Parent Mitigations and Threats for CAPEC-Driven Hierarchies

We propose a new attack pattern model which focuses on the re-inclusion of the “Parent Threat” and “Parent Mitigation” elements to logically group the background of each of the 101 attack patterns in the Common Attack Pattern Enumeration Classification’s (CAPEC) Release 1 dictionary. Our approach creates a graphical hierarchy for each of the attack patterns and groups them not only by Parent Threats (such as “Spoofing” and “Injection”), but also by Parent Mitigations (such as “Access Control” and “Configuration Management”). This allows individual attack patterns to be traced upward to its Parent Threat and downward to its Parent Mitigation. The Parent Threat and Parent Mitigation elements are created from the inherit findings in the CAPEC and NIST standards; we are integrating this information into our hierarchy-based attack pattern approach. The traceability from the top of the tree (Parent Threat), through the detailed elements of the attack patterns, to the roots of the tree (Parent Mitigation) introduces the CAPEC standard to audiences who are not familiar with attack patterns and allows experienced users to leverage the attacks from organized groupings that are widely accepted. There is a great amount of information in the CAPEC dictionary that we are capturing and documenting with this fan-in/fan-out approach.
Revenue Adequacy Constrained Optimal Transmission Switching

Financial Transmission Rights (FTRs) are used to hedge congestion risk and they are financed by congestion rents. The ISO may not collect enough congestion rents to cover its obligation to the FTR holders; this is known as revenue inadequacy. Revenue inadequacy may occur even though ISOs run a Simultaneous Feasibility Test (SFT), which ensures revenue adequacy. However, the SFT relies on the assumption that the grid topology is not modified. Recent research suggests that we should co-optimize generation with the network topology. There is the concern that optimizing the topology will cause revenue inadequacy. In this paper, we examine how transmission switching affects revenue adequacy of FTRs. We discuss how the optimal transmission switching problem can be modified in order to maximize the market surplus subject to maintaining revenue adequacy, if that is the desired motivation of the ISO. We also discuss the policy implications of adopting such a method.
Summary of Current Radiometric Calibration Coefficients for Landsat MSS, TM, ETM+, and EO-1 ALI Sensors

This paper provides a summary of the current equations and rescaling factors for converting calibrated Digital Numbers (DNs) to absolute units of at-sensor spectral radiance, Top-Of- Atmosphere (TOA) reflectance, and at-sensor brightness temperature. It tabulates the necessary constants for the Multispectral Scanner (MSS), Thematic Mapper (TM), Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+), and Advanced Land Imager (ALI) sensors. These conversions provide a basis for standardized comparison of data in a single scene or between images acquired on different dates or by different sensors. This paper forms a needed guide for Landsat data users who now have access to the entire Landsat archive at no cost.
Evaluation of the histologic characteristics of patch test confirmed allergic contact dermatitis

Abstract Background Microscopic features of experimentally induced allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) have been reported; however, the histologic characteristics of environmentally induced ACD have not been definitively elucidated. Objective This pilot study was conducted to describe the histologic features most useful in differentiating ACD from other forms of eczematous dermatitis. Methods A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent evaluation for contact dermatitis was performed. The results of skin biopsy were reviewed in a blinded manner, and two subgroups were compared: gold standard ACD cases and control cases (eczematous dermatitis with negative results of patch testing). Results Of 317 cases reviewed, 39 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Many histologic similarities were noted: both subgroups had substantial acanthosis and lymphocytic infiltration. In addition, present to a moderate degree in both groups were hyperkeratosis, spongiosis, eosinophils, and dermal dendritic fibrohistiocytic (DFH) cells. However, compared with the control cases, eosinophilic spongiosis and multinucleate dermal DFH cells were found to a considerably greater degree in the standard ACD cases. Conclusions Eosinophilic spongiosis and multinucleate dermal DFH cells, in the presence of acanthosis, lymphocytic infiltrate, dermal eosinophils, and hyperkeratosis, are particularly suggestive of ACD. While such findings alone are not diagnostic of ACD, the presence of these combined histologic features supports the pursuit of patch testing in cases of chronic eczematous dermatitis.
All-optical rate conversion

100 Gbit/s TDM multi-access networks will provide guaranteed bandwidth and bandwidth-on-demand packet service to high-end users. In these networks, most of the data processing will be performed electronically. Therefore, it is essential for a receiver node to buffer the incoming ultrahigh-speed (100 Gbit/s) optical data packets, rate convert the data to electronic rates (100 MHz-10 GHz), detect and process the data. Rate-converted data is a time-dilated version of the original data, and as such, differs from demultiplexed data. Time dilation of clock and data streams to low rates has been used as a pulse-characterization technique. Such schemes enabled characterization of narrow pulses without high-speed photodiodes or mechanical translation stages. We demonstrate that an optical sampling technique maybe used to achieve rate conversion in network applications where the desired time-dilated data stream rates range from 100 MHz-10 GHz. We demonstrate all-optical rate conversion of 10 Gbit/s data packets to 100 Mbit/s, 200 Mbit/s, 400 Mbit/s, 600 Mbit/s, and 800 Mbit/s data packets. The variation in the converted data rate is achieved using a tunable-repetition-rate sampling source. Extension of this technique to rate-converting 100 Gbit/s data streams is straightforward and will be discussed.
Model reduction of viscoelastic finite element models

Abstract This paper examines a method of adding viscoelastic properties to finite element models by using additional co-ordinates to account for the frequency dependence usually associated with such damping materials. Several such methods exist and all suffer from an increase in order of the final finite model which is undesirable in many applications. Here we propose to combine one of these methods, the GHM (Golla–Hughes–McTavish) method, with model reduction techniques to remove the objection of increased model order. The result of combining several methods is an ability to add the effects of visoelastic components to finite element or other analytical models without increasing the order of the system. The procedure is illustrated by a numerical example. The method proposed here results in a viscoelastic finite element of a structure without increasing the order of the original model.
Why does linear phase shift cause mode locking

The authors examine the character of signals in a simulated wide band oscillator. It is shown how a continuously changing phase shift (a fixed frequency shift) in the feedback path produces a response which resembles mode locking. The phase insertion or frequency shifting prevents the continuity of waves and the dominance of a single frequency component. It stimulates the growth of noise into wave trains which are easily synchronized by nonlinearity or by gain saturation, which of itself is insufficient to lock. Long term periodicities and fixed spectrum components are observed. >
Rolofylline: a selective adenosine 1 receptor antagonist for the treatment of heart failure.

Background: Co-existent cardiac and renal dysfunction is increasingly recognized as both a predictor and mediator of poor outcomes in patients with advanced heart failure. Novel therapies, including adenosine receptor antagonists, are currently under development for the treatment of ‘cardiorenal syndrome’. Objectives: To review the pathophysiologic rationale for using rolofylline, a selective adenosine 1 receptor antagonist, in patients with cardiorenal syndrome; and to provide a critical overview of safety and efficacy data from clinical studies. Methods: We reviewed published data on the pharmacology of rolofylline, and used this to inform a comprehensive summary of preclinical and clinical trials. Cardiac and renal effects, and safety data with a particular reference to seizures, are highlighted. Results/conclusion: Rolofylline facilitates diuresis and preserves renal function in patients with acute decompensated heart failure and renal dysfunction. Pilot data also suggest beneficial effects on symptom...
A Model in the Desert: Modernization, Advanced Liberalism, and Child Protection Reform in Postcommunist Romania

In this article, the author examines Romanian child protection reforms during European Union (EU) accession as a case of externally facilitated modernization aimed at solving acute social problems. The data for this case study came primarily from fifty-three unstructured interviews with civil servants, civil society representatives, and EU officials. The author finds that in a similar manner to other externally driven modernization projects, the belief according to which Western institutions constituted a universal blueprint, applicable regardless of particular contexts and historical legacies, led to unintended consequences. What is more, because the reformers did not envisage that Western institutions might carry their own pathologies, they ended up replicating some of these pathologies. The study suggests that the goal of externally facilitated public policy should not be to create replicas of Western institutions but to spur local innovation that takes advantage of successful Western institutional logics.
Automated quantitation of non-steady flow and lumen area based on temporal correlation

A robust method for automated quantitation of nonsteady flow and lumen area is presented. The method utilizes temporal information to differentiate between pixels within the lumen and a background region. Cross correlation (CC) is applied to identify the pixels with temporal information similar to a reference obtained from a pixel within the lumen region. The new method incorporates a computation of an optimal threshold; therefore, it provides an unbiased observer-independent quantitation. We have conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments to evaluate the reproducibility and accuracy of the method. Validation of the accuracy of the automated method was performed only on a phantom study since there is no other method that can provide the true lumen size measurement in vivo. The reproducibility of the automated method was evaluated using MRI data from subjects.
Successful clearance of cutaneous acyclovir-resistant, foscarnet-refractory herpes virus lesions with topical cidofovir in an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant patient.

Cidofovir is a deoxycytidine monophosphate analog with broad spectrum activity against various deoxyribonucleic acid viruses. Cidofovir is marketed as an injectable for intravenous use; however, there is a topical cidofovir formulation utilized for viral dermatologic infections. Here, we present a case of a successful clearance of a perianal acyclovir resistant and foscarnet refractory herpes simplex virus (HSV1) ulcer in a 34 year-old woman who had undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. After 1 week of therapy with cidofovir gel, the patient’s ulcer was clinically improved, and the lesion was negative for herpes simplex virus transcripts by real-time polymerase chain reaction testing. The wound remained herpes simplex virus herpes simplex virus negative by real-time polymerase chain reaction on repeat testing 1 week later. Based on this and other reports in HIV/AIDS patients, we believe that cidofovir gel has utility in the management of cutaneous, acyclovir-resistant HSV infections.
Remarks on a Simple Control Law for Point Robot Formations with Exponential Complexity

This paper considers a simple decentralized control law which stabilizes rigid formations of point robots in a way that is consistent with recent work B.D.O. Anderson and a number of others. The feedback law is simple in that it is shown to make parsimonious use of feedback information in a sense that will be made precise, and it is also simple in that it is the obvious one would try to control the relative positions of a group of robots. The law is exponentially complex, however, in the sense that the number of stable equilibria grows exponentially as a function of the number of point robots involved in the formation. Assuming only one formation of the exponentially many possibilities is of interest, we discuss the problem of achieving the desired formation using the feedback law. The paper will also discuss the combinatorial problem of determining all possible formation topologies as well as the critical point theory of the proposed control law.
A 1500-year record of temperature and glacial response inferred from varved Iceberg Lake, southcentral Alaska

We present a varve thickness chronology from glacier-dammed Iceberg Lake in the southern Alaska icefields. Radiogenic evidence confirms that laminations are annual and record continuous sediment deposition from A.D. 442 to A.D. 1998. Varve thickness is positively correlated with Northern Hemisphere temperature trends, and more strongly with a local, ∼600 yr long tree ring width chronology. Varve thickness increases in warm summers because of higher melt, runoff, and sediment transport (as expected), but also because shrinkage of the glacier dam allows shoreline regression that concentrates sediment in the smaller lake. Varve thickness provides a sensitive record of relative changes in warm season temperatures. Relative to the entire record, temperatures implied by this chronology were lowest around A.D. 600, warm between A.D. 1000 and A.D. 1300, cooler between A.D. 1500 and A.D. 1850, and have increased dramatically since then. Combined with stratigraphic evidence that contemporary jokulhlaups (which began in 1999) are unprecedented since at least A.D. 442, this record suggests that 20th century warming is more intense, and accompanied by more extensive glacier retreat, than the Medieval Warm Period or any other time in the last 1500 yr.
DIVISIONAL MULTIMARKET CONTACT WITHIN AND BETWEEN MULTIUNIT ORGANIZATIONS

The theory of multimarket contact has important but uninvestigated implications for interactions among a firm's divisions because divisions often meet and even compete in multiple geographical and ...
Respiratory distress and chest pain: a perforated peptic ulcer with an unusual presentation

Dyspnea and chest pain are common presenting complaints to the ED, and coupled together can present a challenging diagnostic dilemma in patients in extremis. A thoughtful evaluation is required, giving due diligence to the immediate life threats as well as multiple etiologies which can cause serious morbidity. A perforated peptic ulcer is one such possibility and requires rapid diagnosis and prompt intervention to avoid the associated high risk of morbidity and mortality. We present a case report of a 54 year old man with respiratory distress and chest pain as the initial Emergency Department presentation of a perforated duodenal ulcer. We discuss an unusual presentation of a perforated duodenal ulcer that was recognized in the emergency department and treated promptly. The patient was surgically treated immediately, had a prolonged and complicated post-operative course, but is ultimately doing well. We also provide a brief literature review of the risk factors, imaging choices, and management decision required to treat a perforated ulcer. Perforated ulcers can have highly varied presentations and are occasionally difficult to diagnose in a complicated patient. Knowledge of the risk factors and a thorough history and physical can point to the diagnosis, but timely and appropriate imaging is often required because delays in diagnosis and treatment lead to poor outcomes. Early administration of antibiotics and immediate surgical repair are necessary to limit morbidity and mortality.
UV-induced self-repairing polydimethylsiloxane–polyurethane (PDMS–PUR) and polyethylene glycol–polyurethane (PEG–PUR) Cu-catalyzed networks

UV-induced self-repairing polydimethylsiloxane–polyurethane (PDMS–PUR) crosslinked networks capable of repairing mechanical damage upon UV exposure were developed. Induced by the presence of the copper chloride (CuCl2) catalyst, the network remodeling and bond reformation are achieved by the formation of Cu–O coordination complexes, covalent Si–O–Si hydrolysis with subsequent bond reformation. Upon UV exposure, Cu–O complexes undergo tetrahedral-to-distorted tetrahedral rearrangements which parallel the Si–O bond reformation. When PDMS was substituted with OH-terminated polyethylene glycol (PEG) to form PEG–PUR crosslinked networks, square planar-to-tetrahedral rearrangements occur during the damage–repair cycle. Alkyl backbone distortions and segmental motions induced by the local Cu–O symmetry changes result in volume changes of the metal–ligand complex center. These studies show that a combination of supramolecular and covalent bonds facilitates self-repairing.
Evaluation of Management Strategies for Bean Leaf Beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) and Bean Pod Mottle Virus (Comoviridae) in Soybean

Cerotoma trifurcata Forster (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) and Bean pod mottle virus (Comoviridae) (BPMV) both can reduce yield and seed quality of soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merr. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of systemic, seed-applied, and foliar-applied insecticides for the management of this pest complex at three locations in central, northeastern, and northwestern Iowa during 2002Ð2004. Seed-applied insecticide was evaluated according to a currently recommended management program for Iowa (i.e., insecticide applications that target emerging overwintered beetles, F0, and the Þrst seasonal generation, F1). The experimental treatments included seed-applied (thiamethoxam, 0.3Ð 0.5 g (AI) kg 1 ) or clothianidin, 47.32 ml (AI) kg 1 ) and foliar- applied (-cyhalothrin, 16.83Ð28.05 g (AI) ha 1 ) or esfenvalerate (43.74 Ð54.69 g (AI) ha 1 ) insec- ticides. Applications of the foliar insecticides were timed to target F0 ,F 1 or both F0 and F1 populations of C. trifurcata. Our results conÞrm that insecticides timed at F0 and F1 populations of C. trifurcata can reduce vector populations throughout the growing season, provide limited reduction in virus incidence, and improve both yield and seed coat color. Furthermore, seed-applied insecticides may be the more reliable option for an F0-targeted insecticide if used within this management strategy. An F0-targeted insecticide by itself only gave a yield improvement in one out of eight location-years. However, by adding an F1-targeted insecticide, there was a yield gain of 1.42Ð1.67 quintal ha 1 , based on contrast comparisons at three location-years.
An overview of tyrosine kinase inhibitors for the treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer

Introduction: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy and the fifth most common cause of cancer-related deaths in women. Initial treatment with surgery and chemotherapy has improved survival significantly. However, the disease progresses or recurs in most patients. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop more effective treatment strategies.Areas covered: This article provides an overview of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) for the treatment of EOC, which is based on English peer-reviewed articles on MEDLINE and related abstracts presented at major conferences. The authors highlight the data from the published clinical trials in EOC patients who were treated with TKIs or TKI-based regimens.Expert opinion: EOC is responsive to most chemotherapeutic drugs and/or biological agents and represents an ideal disease model for investigating novel anti-cancer agents. Numerous small-molecule TKIs targeting the VEGFR, PARP, PI3K-AKT-mTOR, MAPK, Src, PKC, Wee1 and HER1/2 signaling p...
Synergy between fast-ion transport by core MHD and test blanket module fields in DIII-D experiments

We measured fast-ion transport caused by the combination of MHD and a mock-up test-blanket module (TBM) coil in the DIII-D tokamak. The primary diagnostic is an infrared camera that measures the heat flux on the tiles surrounding the coil. The combined effects of the TBM and four other potential sources of transport are studied: neoclassical tearing modes, Alfven eigenmodes, sawteeth, and applied resonant magnetic perturbation fields for the control of edge localized modes. A definitive synergistic effect is observed at sawtooth crashes where, in the presence of the TBM, the localized heat flux at a burst increases from 0.36±0.27 to 2.6±0.5 MW/m-2.
Appendix to 'Short Interest and Aggregate Stock Returns'

This appendix provides complete results for the robustness checks discussed in Short Interest and Aggregate Stock Returns.The paper "Short Interest and Aggregate Stock Returns" to which these Appendices apply is available at the following URL: http://ssrn.com/abstract=2474930.
The WATCH (Weight Activity and Time Contributes to Health) paradigm and quality of life: the impact of overweight/obesity duration on the association between physical activity and health-related quality of life.

Summary Purpose Physical activity has been shown to reduce various health risks associated with obesity; however, it is less known how the duration of overweight/obesity impacts these associations. The purpose of this study was to determine how overweight/obesity status and overweight/obesity duration effects the association between physical activity and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Design Cross-sectional and retrospective. Setting NHANES 2003–2006. Subjects One thousand five hundred and seventy-eight adults were included in this study. Measures Moderate to vigorous physical activity was defined as ≥ 2020 activity counts in a given minute for ≥ 150 min/week; HRQOL assessed from the CDC HRQOL-4 survey; present BMI was objectively measured and 10 year prior BMI was calculated using self-reported body mass. Six groups were created: (i) physically active, normal weight now and 10 years ago; (ii) physically inactive, normal weight now and 10 years ago; (iii) physically active, overweight/obese now but not 10 years ago; (iv) physically active, overweight/obese now and 10 years ago; (v) physically inactive, overweight/obese now but not 10 years ago and (vi) physically inactive, overweight/obese now and 10 years ago. Analysis Multivariable ordinal regression. Results In comparison to active individuals who were normal weight at the examination and 10 years prior, only those who were inactive and overweight at the examination and 10 years prior had a worse HRQOL; β = 0.91 (95% CI: 0.20–1.63; p = 0.01). Conclusions Among individuals who have been overweight/obese for longer durations, physical activity may help to improve HRQOL.
Direct radial artery access with the 070 neuron guide catheter for aneurysm coiling: a novel application of the neuron catheter for cerebral interventions.

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE Most neuroendovascular interventions rely on a transfemoral approach to the intracranial circulation; however, this is sometimes not possible because of complex aortic arch anatomy or femoral arterial disease. Transradial arteriography and intervention are well established in interventional cardiology, and there have been some reports of successful neurointervention using this technique. The incidence of radial artery occlusion or other access site complications after transradial access is directly related to the outer diameter of the sheath used to access the artery. We describe a novel approach to neuroendovascular intervention using a 070 Neuron guide catheter to directly access the radial artery for complex cerebrovascular intervention. CLINICAL PRESENTATION We describe a technique to directly access the radial artery with a 070 Neuron catheter, without the need for a large 6-French sheath, for cerebrovascular interventions. Two successful cases are described in which this technique was used. Case 1 describes the successful Y-stent placement for coiling of a basilar tip aneurysm, and case 2 describes coiling of a ruptured posterior inferior cerebellar artery aneurysm. CONCLUSION The 070 Neuron catheter can be used in a direct access transradial approach to the cerebrovascular circulation for complex interventions without a radial sheath, thereby maximizing guide catheter diameter and minimizing the radial arteriotomy size.
Control of teichoic acid and teichuronic acid biosynthesis in chemostat cultures of Bacillus subtilis var. niger

1. Quantitative determination of the anionic polymers present in the walls of Bacillus subtilis var. niger organisms undergoing transition, in a chemostat culture, from either Mg2+-limitation to PO43−-limitation or K+-limitation to PO43−-limitation showed that teichuronic acid synthesis started immediately the culture became PO43−-limited and proceeded at a rate substantially faster than the rate of biomass synthesis. 2. Simultaneously, the cell-wall teichoic acid content diminished at a rate greater than that due to dilution by newly synthesized wall material, and fragments of teichoic acid and mucopeptide accumulated in the culture extracellular fluid. 3. Equally rapid reverse changes occurred when a PO43−-limited B. subtilis var. niger culture was returned to being Mg2+-limited. 4. It is concluded that in this organism both teichoic acid and teichuronic acid syntheses are expressions of a single genotype, and a mechanism for the control of synthesis of both polymers is suggested. 5. These results are discussed with reference to the constantly changing environmental conditions that obtain in a batch culture and the variation in bacterial cell-wall composition that is reported to occur throughout the growth cycle.
Chapter 10:The CYP2F, CYP2G and CYP2J Subfamilies

Members of the CYP2F, CYP2G and CYP2J subfamilies were first discovered in the late 1980s and early 1990s. These genes are either preferentially (CYP2F and CYP2J, with exception of rat CYP2J3) or exclusively (CYP2G) expressed in extrahepatic tissues, where they may have important biological function...
Calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase kinase β is neuroprotective in stroke in aged mice

Stroke is a devastating neurological disease and the leading cause of long-term disability, particularly in the elderly. Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase β (CaMKK β) is a major kinase activated by elevated levels of intracellular calcium. Our previous findings in young mice have suggested that CaMKK β is neuroprotective as KO mice had worse stroke outcomes. Because age is an important determinant of stroke outcome, we evaluated the functional role of CaMKK β in stroke in aged mice. We used middle cerebral artery occlusion to induce stroke in aged wild-type (WT) and CaMKK β KO male mice. Lentiviral vectors carrying CaMKK β (LV-CaMKK β) were used to overexpress CaMKK β in the mouse brain. Baseline levels of CaMKK β in the aged brain were significantly lower than those in young mice. LV-CaMKK β treatment reduced infarcts and neurological deficits assessed 3 days after stroke. In chronic survival experiments, CaMKK β KO mice showed increased tissue loss in the ipsilateral hemisphere 3 weeks after stroke. In addition, KO mice showed poorer functional recovery during the 3-week survival period, as measured by the rotarod test, corner test, locomotor activity assay, and novel object recognition test, compared with WT controls. The loss of blood-brain barrier proteins, inactivation of survival gene expression such as B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and an increase in inflammatory cytokines in the serum were observed after stroke with CaMKK β inhibition. We demonstrate that CaMKK β is neuroprotective in stroke in aged mice. Therefore, our data suggest that CaMKK β may be a potential target for reducing long-term disability after stroke.
Reconstructive surgery of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis

An Assessment of the effects of radiation and chemotherapy on the reconstruction of the chest, abdomen and pelvis. Procedures of particular interest in this reference include alloplastic reconstruction of chest wall deformities; direct closure, tissue expansion and grafting of the abdominal wall; as well as rectus abdominus muscle involvement in th
Photosensitization by [Metallo]Porphyrins. Formation and Photophysical Properties of Porphyrin Assemblies

Stemming from their multifarious roles in natural processes, [metallo]porphyrins have found numerous applications in artificial systems aimed at mimicking important biological functions. Many different metalloporphyrins have been designed in order to accomplish specific tasks and, in particular, novel approaches have been used to assemble several porphyrins into a cluster. This ability to concentrate metalloporphyrins into a supramolecular assembly is of special relevance in that it takes us one step closer to constructing practical devices. This chapter will attempt to review the progress made in the assembly of porphyrin derivatives into supramolecular systems and will describe the aptitude of such assemblies to photosensitize particular reactions. The work described here is primarily concerned with trying to reproduce, under controlled conditions, some of the important features of photosynthetic reaction center complexes.
Estrogen Receptor Imaging Using Intrinsically Fluorescent Ligands

This article will summarize recent advances in the development of fluorescent probes that bind as ligands to the estrogen receptor (ER). While fluorescent steroid derivatives have been investigated for decades as potential probes for cytofluorometric analysis of steroid receptors, only recently has it been possible to convincingly demonstrate their utility for receptor visualization within cells by in situ fluorescence microscopy. We have recently shown that inherently fluorescent ligands such as the naturally occurring plant estrogen coumestrol1 and synthetic tetrahydochrysene (THC) estrogens2 are able to visualize ER within cells in a cell culture model for ER expression. Reversibly binding fluorescent ligands have several distinct advantages compared to using chemically conjugated antibodies for the analysis of receptor expression and distribution. Notable among these are an improvement in localization of the target protein due to the small size of these probes and the fact that upon binding, they become effectively immobilized at the ligand binding site of their receptor. In contrast, analysis by immunohistochemical methods involves the deposition of a potentially diffusible chromophore in proximity to the target protein, directed by an antigen-antibody interaction on the protein surface. An increase in resolution is afforded by immunofluorescence analysis; however, this technique is still indirect since the imaging fluorochrome is coupled to either a primary or a secondary antibody rather than to the target protein under investigation.
System resilience enhancement through modularization for large scale cyber systems

It has become increasingly evident that large scale cyber systems can be brittle and may exhibit unpredictable behavior when faced with unexpected disturbances. Even weak and innocuous disturbances can bring down the system inoperative and may introduce catastrophic disasters to the society. The goal of this research is to provide effective mechanisms to enhance the resilience of large scale cyber systems. Process interactions will be modeled and the relationship between interaction and system resilience will be analyzed. The effectiveness of modularization on resilience enhancement will be illustrated. A dynamic programming algorithm based solution will be developed to provide a solution to enhance system resilience through system modularization.
Preservice elementary science teachers' identity development: identifying with images of inquiry

Preservice elementary science teachers are in the process of developing identities as teachers; fostering positive identities as science teachers is an important goal of teacher education (Danielewicz, 2001). Elementary science teachers often do not have strong identities as science teachers, but teachers who do have positive perceptions of themselves as science teachers are more likely to focus on their students and their learning and less likely to limit the number and kinds of science teaching practices they use (Appleton & Kindt, 2002). Therefore, it is critical that elementary teacher educators help their students learn to see themselves as science teachers.
Target-Mediated Antibacterial Resistance

Bacteria have evolved a variety of methods to avoid the lethal action of antimicrobial agents. Among the more common and diverse mechanisms of resistance are alterations of the antimicrobial targets. It is axiomatic that all antimicrobial agents have targets—proteins or other structures within the bacterial cell that are essential to the structure, growth, and/or function of the microorganism. In order to do their job effectively, antimicrobial agents must interact with these targets in a manner that precludes the normal functioning of the target molecule. Moreover, their interactions with the target must be fairly specific, otherwise the potential for interaction with human molecules, and thereby the potential for toxicity, will be increased. In a circumstance in which the antibiotic–target interaction is specific, changes in the target structure or in the environment immediately surrounding the target can have a profound impact on target–antibiotic interaction. This interaction can result in resistance, as long as the changes do not in a meaningful way impact the ability of the target molecule to serve its function in cellular structure or metabolism. The frequent incorporation of the genetic underpinnings of these modifications into mobile elements has facilitated the wide dissemination of resistance.
The importance of Hair and Scalp Hygiene for pediculus humanus capitis epidemic prevention

Introduction: Pediculus humanus capitis have cosmopolite attributes, and normally affect school age children. This research aims at obtaining the number of people infested with pediculus humanus capitis and is categorized by the age, sex, education, social-economic status, way of life, and prevalence of lice, louse nymphs and eggs among children living in ten orphanages within the Province of North Sulawesi in 2012. Methods: The research is designed using crosssectional approach and is based on samples taken from 568 respondents. Results: The fi ndings of this research indicate that 106 (18.66%) children are infested by Pediculus humanus capitis. Statistic test using chi-square approach results in a score of p<0.05 which indicates a correlation between hair length, type of cleansing agents used for hair wash, the frequency of hair wash, the use of towels, the use of combs, sleeping habit, scalp itchiness, and scalp irritation with lice prevalence in the hair. Multivariate analysis using logistic regression test results in a score of p<0.05 attributable to the prevalence of adult lice among children with long hair, hairwash frequency, use of comb and sleeping habit. Those that are mostly attributable to lice prevalence is hairwash frequency with a score of Wald 58 and OR 326. Conclusion: Pediculus humanus capitis is found among children of 7 – 12 years, and dominated by girls, elementary school education, low social-economic status, unhealthy way of life, comprising children living in densely populated orphanages. Children infested with head lice suffer from head itches and irritation. It is recommended that orphanages make efforts of head lice prevention, control and eradication as well as instilling the awareness in governesses and orphans of the importance of scalp and hair hygiene.
Anthropogenic warming impacts on California snowpack during drought

Sierra Nevada climate and snowpack is simulated during the period of extreme drought from 2011 to 2015 and compared to an identical simulation except for the removal of the twentieth century anthropogenic warming. Anthropogenic warming reduced average snowpack levels by 25%, with middle-to-low elevations experiencing reductions between 26 and 43%. In terms of event frequency, return periods associated with anomalies in 4 year 1 April snow water equivalent are estimated to have doubled, and possibly quadrupled, due to past warming. We also estimate effects of future anthropogenic warmth on snowpack during a drought similar to that of 2011–2015. Further snowpack declines of 60–85% are expected, depending on emissions scenario. The return periods associated with future snowpack levels are estimated to range from millennia to much longer. Therefore, past human emissions of greenhouse gases are already negatively impacting statewide water resources during drought, and much more severe impacts are likely to be inevitable.
The impact of reflective practice in a university language class

AbstractThis study by a university professor of foreign language examines what impact reflective practice has on students’ overall performance in a university language class. The findings support that reflective practice has a positive impact on students’ performance and their own role in learning. The intertwining nature of reflection in all contexts of learning processes strengthens instructional practices which students favorably described throughout this study.
Utility of Capture-Recapture Methodology to Estimate Prevalence of Congenital Heart Defects Among Adolescents in 11 New York State Counties: 2008 to 2010.

Background Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common birth defects in the United States, and the population of individuals living with CHDs is growing. Though CHD prevalence in infancy has been well characterized, better prevalence estimates among children and adolescents in the United States are still needed. Methods We used capture–recapture methods to estimate CHD prevalence among adolescents residing in 11 New York counties. The three data sources used for analysis included Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) hospital inpatient records, SPARCS outpatient records, and medical records provided by seven pediatric congenital cardiac clinics from 2008 to 2010. Bayesian log-linear models were fit using the R package Conting to account for dataset dependencies and heterogeneous catchability. Results A total of 2537 adolescent CHD cases were captured in our three data sources. Forty-four cases were identified in all data sources, 283 cases were identified in two of three data sources, and 2210 cases were identified in a single data source. The final model yielded an estimated total adolescent CHD population of 3845, indicating that 66% of the cases in the catchment area were identified in the case-identifying data sources. Based on 2010 Census estimates, we estimated adolescent CHD prevalence as 6.4 CHD cases per 1000 adolescents (95% confidence interval: 6.2–6.6). Conclusion We used capture–recapture methodology with a population-based surveillance system in New York to estimate CHD prevalence among adolescents. Future research incorporating additional data sources may improve prevalence estimates in this population. Birth Defects Research, 2017.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Informant Discrepancies in the Assessment of ASD Symptoms of High-Functioning Children With ASD Using the SRS–2

This study compared ratings by parents and teachers of 120 high-functioning children with autism spectrum disorder on the Social Responsiveness Scale–2. Parent ratings were significantly higher than those of teachers; correlations between the informants were low to moderate. Parent–teacher pairs placed 87% of cases above the clinically significant threshold. Implications for screening, diagnosis, and outcome assessment are provided.
Comparison of microrings and microdisks for high-speed optical modulation in silicon photonics

The past several decades have witnessed the gradual transition from electrical to optical interconnects, ranging from long-haul telecommunication to chip-to-chip interconnects. As one type of key component in integrated optical interconnect and high-performance computing, optical modulators have been well developed these past few years, including ultrahigh-speed microring and microdisk modulators. In this paper, a comparison between microring and microdisk modulators is well analyzed in terms of dimensions, static and dynamic power consumption, and fabrication tolerance. The results show that microdisks have advantages over microrings in these aspects, which gives instructions to the chip design of high-density integrated systems for optical interconnects and optical computing.
Schools as Vehicles to Assess Experiences, Improve Outcomes, and Effect Social Change.

Schools are important settings that can be utilized to yield a positive impact on youth and the many issues our society faces. In this Presidential Address, I identify key issues and directions for the field, advocating that we need to expand our ecological focus, improve school climate, and collaborate with schools to effect change. To illustrate these key themes, findings from four projects with k-12 youth and educators in the United States are described, and these projects have the following foci: protective factors for youth exposed to violence, teacher-directed violence as part of an APA Task Force, school climate and neighborhood factors in relation to academic outcomes, and school transitions for students with disabilities. Challenges and future directions to build upon community psychology theory, research, practice, and policy are discussed.
A Recommender System for Sweaty Sock Syndrome

Dermatosis disease is also known as Sweaty Sock Syndrome (SSS). Most of the children and young teenagers are affected by SSS. It damages the skin of the children and the young teenagers with red soles on the feet. A new methodology is used to find the stages of Sweaty Sock Syndrome using Multilayer perceptron (MLP) and EM clustering technique. The symptoms and stages of SSS are classified by using predictive modeling. In Multilayer perceptron technique, data objects are classified based on the stages of SSS and find out their efficiency and accuracy. EM Clustering is an unsupervised technique, which is characterized the objects based on the weights. Supervised learning identifies the various symptoms of SSS disease. It categorizes the data such as initial, non severe and severe by using learning by example. Learning by observation method categorizes the data into different clusters, which is grouped as initial, non severe and severe. It helps to know the various stages of dermatosis by using predictive and descriptive modeling. This prediction helps to recommend the patients those who are affected by SSS and provide suggestion to the patients.
Structural and optical properties of sulfur passivated epitaxial step-graded GaAs₁₋ySby materials

The impact of bulk and surface defect states on the vibrational and optical properties of step-graded epitaxial GaAs1-ySby (0 ≤ y ≤ 1) materials with and without chemical surface treatment by (NH4)2S was investigated. Tunable antimony (Sb) composition GaAs1-ySby epitaxial layers, grown by solid source molecular beam epitaxy (MBE), were realized on GaAs and Si substrates by varying key growth parameters (e.g., Sb/Ga flux ratio, growth temperature). Raman and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopic analysis of (NH4)2S-treated GaAs1-ySby epitaxial layers revealed composition-independent Raman spectral widths and enhanced PL intensity (1.3×) following (NH4)2S surface treatment, indicating bulk defect-minimal epitaxy and a reduction in the surface recombination velocity corresponding to reduced surface defect sites, respectively. Moreover, quantification of the luminescence recombination mechanisms across a range of measurement temperatures and excitation intensities (i.e., varying laser power) indicate the presence of free-electron to neutral acceptor pair or Sb-defect-related recombination pathways, with detectable bulk defect recombination discernible only in binary GaSb PL spectra. In addition, PL analysis of the short- and long-term thermodynamic stability of sulfur-treated GaAs1-ySby/Al2O3 heterointerfaces revealed an absence of quantifiable atomic interdiffusion or native oxide formation. Leveraging the combined Raman and PL analysis herein, the quality of the heteroepitaxial step-graded epitaxial GaAs1-ySby materials can be optimized for optical devices.
Propagation of Southern Waxmyrtle by Stem Cuttings

Southern waxmyrtle (Myrica cerifera L.) stem cuttings rooted in high percentages when taken in a transitional growth stage between a softwood and semi-hardwood condition and maintained under interm...