cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Improved Method for Bonding CFRP Overlays to Steel for Fatigue Repair

Experiments and computer simulations were carried out at the University of Kansas to investigate the use of composite materials for strengthening and repair of fatigue-vulnerable steel bridges. Prefabricated CFRP overlays were attached to welded coverplate specimens using a layer of epoxy resin. The specimens were then subjected to three-point bending under cyclic loading at a constant stress range. Early tests showed that bonding CFRP overlays to steel was an effective method to reduce the stress demand in areas susceptible to fatigue damage, and that this strengthening method could lead to substantial increases in crack initiation life. Fatigue tests also showed that maintaining the bond between the CFRP overlays and the steel was the most critical factor in the effectiveness of this strengthening technique. It was observed that the presence of a layer of breather fabric embedded within the layer of epoxy resin was the most important parameter affecting bond behavior under fatigue loading. This paper describes monotonic and fatigue tests carried out to evaluate the effect of the presence of breather fabric and thickness of the resin layer on bond strength and on the performance of the resin layer under fatigue loading. It was found that the mode of failure of the resin under monotonic and fatigue loading changed significantly due to the presence of the breather cloth. Although the presence of breather cloth had a negligible effect on the bond strength of thin resin layers, its effect on strength increased with the thickness of the resin layer. It was also found that the presence of the breather fabric had a very significant effect on the post-peak behavior of monotonic tests, which partially explains its beneficial effect on behavior under fatigue loading. BACKGROUND Techniques to repair connections vulnerable to fatigue damage in steel bridges must be developed considering the specific geometry and other relevant characteristics of the particular connection detail. This is particularly the case for fatigue repairs using composite material overlays, in which the geometry and location of the overlays should be optimized for the shape of the connection detail. Nonetheless, several studies have found that regardless of geometry a critical factor in the implementation of this repair technique is maintaining the bond between the composite material and the steel for the intended fatigue life of the repair. There is a wealth of studies investigating bond between resins and metal. Two studies closely related to the type of repair discussed in this paper were carried out by Nozaka et al. (2005; 2005a), who investigated the effectiveness of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) strips for increasing fatigue life of steel girders. Testing described in Nozaka et al. (2005) was
Guidelines for developing distributed virtual environment applications

We have conducted a variety of projects that served to investigate the limits of virtual environments and distributed virtual environment (DVE) technology for the military and medical professions. The projects include an application that allows the user to interactively explore a high-fidelity, dynamic scale model of the Solar System and a high-fidelity, photorealistic, rapidly reconfigurable aircraft simulator. Additional projects are a project for observing, analyzing, and understanding the activity in a military distributed virtual environment, a project to develop a distributed threat simulator for training Air Force pilots, a virtual spaceplane to determine user interface requirements for a planned military spaceplane system, and an automated wingman for use in supplementing or replacing human-controlled systems in a DVE. The last two projects are a virtual environment user interface framework; and a project for training hospital emergency department personnel. In the process of designing and assembling the DVE applications in support of these projects, we have developed rules of thumb and insights into assembling DVE applications and the environment itself. In this paper, we open with a brief review of the applications that were the source for our insights and then present the lessons learned as a result of these projects. The lessons we have learned fall primarily into five areas. These areas are requirements development, software architecture, human-computer interaction, graphical database modeling, and construction of computer-generated forces.
Annealing study of the infrared absorption in an amorphous silicon dioxide film

Abstract The temperature-dependence and annealing behavior of the IR absorption in an a-SiO 2 film have been studied up to 350°C. Both reversible and irreversible effects of annealing have been observed for the OH (s) band, with the latter effects due to the loss of hydrogen from the film. For film temperatures of 150°C and above, the OH (s) band decreases dramatically in both area and FWHM. These changes are reversible once the film is an anneal-stable state and are attributed to the thermally-induced breaking of hydrogen-bonded OH…O groups. The main SiO peak is observed to reversibly broaden and shift to lower wavenumbers for T>150°C, signaling significant changes in the local environment of the SiOSi bonding units at these temperatures.
Multi-agent designs for ambient systems

Designing and developing software for an ambient intelligence (AmI) system involves difficult challenges related to the varied roles of many heterogeneous devices and communication channels, and intelligent user interfaces. Because ambient systems have unpredictable requirements and are context-aware, software designs must support dynamic and sustainable change. We argue that such designs should utilize formal methods and aspect-oriented techniques, to help in supporting model validation and verification. Features of an aspect-oriented, multi-agent, architectural description language are presented as a mechanism for reasoning about cross-cutting concerns.
Axonal transport of β-receptors during the response to axonal injury and repair in locus coeruleus neurons

Injections of the catecholamine neurotoxin, 6-hydroxydopamine, were placed in the ascending locus coeruleus (LC) pathway in the right cerebral cortex of rats partially destroying the noradrenergic projection to the somatosensory cortex. Norepinephrine (NE) levels fell to a nadir of 49% of control over the first 14 days, associated with a 40% increase in the number of β-adrenoreceptor binding sites (labeled with [ 3 H]dihydroalprenolol; [ 3 H]DHA) in the denervated cortex. Both NE levels and cortical β-receptor binding returned to control levels by 28 days. Similar changes, of lesser magnitude, also occurred in the unlesioned, left somatosensory cortex. Catecholamine histofluorescence studies supported these findings of denervation and reinnervation of the right cortex over a 3-month period. Anterograde axonal transport of β-receptors was assessed by measuring the accumulation of β-receptor binding sites ([ 3 H]DHA) behind a second lesion placed in the more proximal portion of the ipsilateral LC pathway. Anterograde transport was completely blocked at 4 days, during the initial fall of NE levels, then was increased to 200% of control at 14–21 days, when recovery of cortical NE levels was beginning, and then returned towards control levels by 2–3 months when normal NE levels had been restored. Retrograde transport of β-receptors was assessed by measurement of the accumulation of binding sites for [ 125 I]iodocyanopindolol distal to lesions of the ipsilateral LC pathway and showed a complex response following axonal injury; retrograde transport was increased to 280% and 325% of control at 4 days and 21 days, respectively, with blockade of transport at 14 days and 28 days and a return to control levels by 3 months post-lesion. The relationship of these patterns of change in the bidirectional transport of β-adrenoreceptors to the other metabolic alterations in LC axons undergoing the reaction to injury and repair suggests that β-receptor transport may play an important role in these processes.
Full Film Lubrication of Strip Rolling

A mathematical model for liquid lubricated strip rolling in the full-film regime is developed. The model combines slab plasticity, hydrodynamic lubrication and thermal analyses to relate local and global condition to process variables and material properties. The predictions of the model are compared with experimental measurements of outlet speed ratio, roll separating force and roll torque in rolling 1100-H14 aluminum with a viscous mineral oil and 5P4E polyphenyl ether as lubricants. The excellent agreement which is obtained provides powerful support of the validity of the model
Wide field-of-view microscope based on holographic focus grid illumination

We have developed a new microscopy design that can achieve wide field-of-view (FOV) imaging and yet possesses resolution that is comparable to a conventional microscope. In our design, the sample is illuminated by a holographically projected light-spot grid. We acquire images by translating the sample across the grid and detecting the transmissions. We have built a prototype system with an FOV of 6mm×5mm and acquisition time of 2.5s. The resolution is fundamentally limited by the spot size—our demonstrated average FWHM spot diameter was 0.74μm. We demonstrate the prototype by imaging a U.S. Air Force target and a lily anther. This technology is scalable and represents a cost-effective way to implement wide FOV microscopy systems.
Symptomatic improvement in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) on symptomatic control of gas-troesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Methods: Morbidly obese patients (n = 435) who un-derwent LRYGBP for morbid obesity were assessed for changes in GERD symptoms, quality of life, and patient satisfaction after surgery. Results: A total of 238 patients (55%) had evidence of chronic GERD, and 152 patients (64%) voluntarily participated in the study. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 48 kg/m2. The mean excess weight loss was 68.8% at 12 months. There was a significant decrease in GERD-related symptoms, including heartburn (from 87% to 22%, p < 0.001); water brash (from 18% to 7%, p<0.05); wheezing (from 40% to 5%, p<0.001) laryngitis (from 17% to 7%, p < 0.05); and aspiration (from 14% to 2%, p<0.01) following LRYGBP. Post-operatively, the use of medication decreased significantly both for proton pump inhibitors (from 44% to 9%, p < 0.001) and for the H2 blockers (from 60% to 10%, p < 0.01). SF-36 physical function scores and the mental component summary scores improved after the operation (87 vs 71; p < 0.05 and 83 vs 66; p < 0.05, respectively). Overall patient satisfaction was 97%. Conclusion: LRYGBP results in very good control of GERD in morbidly obese patients with follow-up as late as 3 years. Morbidly obese patients who require surgery for GERD may be better served by LRYGBP than fundoplication because of the additional benefit of significant weight loss.
Coping With the Stress of Being Bullied: Consequences of Coping Strategies Among College Students

The stress of being bullied has been associated with a wide range of negative consequences. In the present study, the authors hypothesized that the process of adapting to and coping with bullying would have a lingering effect on strategies used to cope with future stress. College-age participants (N = 1,339) completed an online survey tapping into (a) their experiences as a victim of bullying during adolescence, (b) their typical strategies for coping with stress, and (c) their current levels of stress. Consistent with the authors' hypotheses, victimization history was associated with both increased stress and an increased use of avoidant coping strategies. In addition, avoidant coping partially mediated the link between victimization and stress. These findings suggest that avoidant coping may develop as an adaptive response to uncontrollable stress but that, in the long term, these strategies are a maladaptive approach to coping that acts to prolong stress.
Protecting genetic privacy

This article outlines the arguments for and against new rules to protect genetic privacy. We explain why genetic information is different to other sensitive medical information, why researchers and biotechnology companies have opposed new rules to protect genetic privacy (and favour anti-discrimination laws instead), and discuss what can be done to protect privacy in relation to genetic-sequence information and to DNA samples themselves.
Optimization of the compiling of subscripted array references

A method is described for compiling higher-order-language references to array elements into optimum in-line executable code. Optimization is achieved by resolving parts of the required subscripting calculation, e.g., those which involve constant values, at compile time instead of at run time. The method is applicable to references for arrays of any number of dimensions.
Mexican immigrant women and the new domestic labor

Since the 1970s global and national economic processes have reshaped the organization of production and of social reproduction. As part of the change in the organization of social reproduction there is an increased demand for domestic workers. The focus of this article is on Mexican immigrant women who fulfill that demand and who form part of a "new" domestic labor in Santa Barbara California. Two themes emerge: at the local level the domestic labor market is more heterogeneous than previously described consisting of a multiplicity of forms. The domestic labor market is in turn polarized. Two case studies--one of a "labor contractor" and the other of an "elderly care provider"--illustrate some of what the emerging polarized categories are the qualitatively distinct labor process associated with each and some of the differences and similarities between the Mexicanas who undertake domestic employment. (authors)
RATIONAL-EMOTIVE DISPUTING AND THE FIVE-FACTOR MODEL: PERSONALITY DIMENSIONS OF THE ELLIS EMOTIONAL EFFICIENCY INVENTORY

This study investigates the relationship between three types of disputes used in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), and the five personality domains of the Five Factor Model of Personality. A sample of 194 subjects was assessed for the use of three categories of REBT disputes using the Ellis Emotional Efficiency Inventory (EEEI), and for the Big Five personality dimensions using the NEO-Five Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI). Disputing against “awfulizing” was found to correlate inversely with Neuroticism. Disputing against “self-downing” was found to correlate positively with both Extraversion and Conscientiousness. Disputing against “low frustration tolerance” was found to correlate positively with Agreeableness and Openness. Implications for REBT practice and research are discussed.
Interactions of automated pricing algorithms: an experimental investigation

ABSTRACT The advent of electronic commerce enables retailers to set prices via automated algorithms. This paper employs the method of experimental economics to examine human behavior in environments where multiple automated pricing algorithms are available for use. The results of the experiments reported here indicate that individuals prefer using automated pricing algorithms to setting prices manually. However, neither a price-beating nor a price-matching automated rule is dominant in terms of the frequency of usage. We find that the composite distribution of prices is a mean- and median-preserving spread for the game-theoretic distribution and for the previously reported distribution of manually set prices. Our primary finding is that individuals encounter difficulty in coordinating to achieve tacitly collusive outcomes. However, as indicated by one market, multiple algorithms do not necessarily preclude tacit collusion. Keywords Automated pricing, Internet posted offer markets, experimental economics.
Familial congenital bundle branch system disease.

The occurrence of congenital conduction disturbances in three siblings is presented. The first child had complete heart block at age 2 years and died at age 10 with ventricular fibrillation. The second sibling at age 15 years had right bundle branch block with left axis deviation and complete heart block at age 17. The third sibling at age 17 years had normal atrioventricular (A-V) conduction but prolonged intraventricular conduction time with incomplete right bundle branch block. Serial section study of the conduction system of the first sibling showed atrophy of the branching portion of the A-V bundle with almost complete absence of the left bundle branch and absence of the beginning of the right bundle branch. The second and third parts of the right bundle branch were intact. The anatomic data in the first case and the electrocardiographic data in all three cases suggest a familial congenital disease of the bundle branches.
Visualization and Measurements of Microdroplet Impact Dynamics on a Curved Substrate

The basic problem of the impact of a microdroplet on a curved substrate is of central importance to micromanufacturing and targeted spray cooling of microdevices. The transient fluid dynamics involved in the droplet spreading and eventual splashing drastically influence the heat transfer involved in these processes. Although the fluid dynamics and heat transfer related to microdroplet impact on flat substrates is well documented, there is a lack of systematic study concerning microdroplet impact on a substrate of comparable curvature. Such a study is reported in this paper. Droplets of typical diameter and velocity of respectively 80 micrometer and 9 m/s were produced with a piezoelectrically-driven generator. The fluids used were filtered water and isopropanol. The size, velocity and temperature of the droplets were maintained constant. The primary variable is the substrate curvature, which was varied using a collection of spheres with diameters ranging from 60 micrometer to 10 millimeter. The dynamic behavior of the microdroplet during impact is visualized and quantified in this paper. Based on the experimental results, an existing analytical correlation that predicts the spreading temporal evolution is extended to account for substrate curvature.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Structure and reactivity of Pt–Ru/SiO2 catalysts for the preferential oxidation of CO under excess H2

Abstract SiO 2 -supported Pt–Ru bimetallic catalysts subjected to two different types of pretreatment protocols (i.e., subsequent oxidation–reduction treatments at 300 °C and direct reduction in H 2 at 300 °C) were characterized by extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (EXAFS), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of adsorbed CO, and catalytic activity measurements for the preferential oxidation of CO in the presence of excess H 2 (PROX). The EXAFS data show that both treatments led to the formation of dispersed bimetallic structures, with an average Pt Ru bond distance of 2.68 A. The close proximity between Pt and Ru helped stabilize Ru in a highly dispersed form and prevented its sintering after oxidation treatments. The FTIR results indicate that the adsorption of CO was substantially weaker on bimetallic samples than on the corresponding monometallic ones. Interparticle segregation (i.e., segregation of the two metals into individual particles) was observed with the Pt–Ru/SiO 2 sample exposed to direct H 2 treatment; in contrast, intraparticle segregation (i.e., segregation of the two metals within the same particle), with Pt preferentially occupying more surface sites, was observed when consequent O 2 /H 2 treatments were used. As a result, the direct H 2 treatment yielded samples with PROX activity almost identical to that of monometallic Ru catalysts, whereas the O 2 /H 2 treatment yielded samples with PROX activity intermediate to those of monometallic Pt and Ru catalysts.
Soluble Element Concentrations and Complexation in Southeastern Lake Michigan

Water samples were collected from the epilimnion and hypolimnion of southeastern Lake Michigan during 1974 and 1975. The mean elemental soluble (< 0.45 μm) concentrations in log10 (moles per liter) of the 88 samples collected from the epilimnion are: Ba = −6.5, Ca = −3.1, Co = −7. 7, Cr = −7.5, Cu = −7.4, Fe =−6.9, K =−4.5, Mg= −3.3, Mn =−8.1, Mo =−6.9, Na =−3.6,Ni = −6.9, Sr=−5.9, Zn =−7.1, Cl = −3.5, soluble reactive PO42−-P = −7.5, SO42− = −3. 7, and soluble reactive SiO2 = −5.3. During the month of July in 1974 and 1975, the only variable having significant concentration differences between the epilimnion and the hypolimnion was soluble reactive SiO2. It was more concentrated in the hypolimnion. Using thermodynamic data and solving simultaneous equations, the degree of complexation of each ion has been estimated. Ions which have 10% or more of their activity accounted for by complexes include Co2+, Cu2+, Fe3+, Mn2+,Ni2+, CO32−, SO42−,and HPO42−. Using the resulting free ion activities and calculating solubility products, epilimnetic lake water during July 1974 from southeastern Lake Michigan is supersaturated with respect to dolomite, malachite, hydroxylapatite, fluorapatite, hydroxoapatite, X-ray amorphous Fe(OH)3, and goethite. It is undersaturated with respect to calcite, aragonite, rhodochrosite, barite, and strengite.
Interactions between an Exotic Crayfish and Stocked Rainbow Trout in Newcastle Reservoir, Utah

Abstract Crayfish Orconectes virilis appeared in Newcastle Reservoir, Utah, in the 1970s. Rainbow trout Salmo gairdneri are stocked annually in the reservoir to support a sport fishery. Predation of rainbow trout on crayfish was studied during 1983-1985. This predation was seasonal, occurring only during June-December. It was greatest during June-August, when up to 100% of fish stomachs contained crayfish. Relative sizes of predators and prey helped to limit crayfish consumption by fish, but seasonal behavior and distribution of crayfish also influenced their availability. Crayfish of ingestible sizes occupied the reservoir throughout the year, though rainbow trout did not eat them in winter and early spring. Crayfish were consumed up to a size of 38 mm in carapace length (CL). They grew to a size of 22 mm CL during their first year and attained a maximum size of 60 mm CL. Rainbow trout growth declined after crayfish became abundant in 1979. Crayfish changed the reservoir ecosystem by altering the food we...
A Social Goals Perspective on Children's Social Competence.

Developing a more comprehensive understanding of social competence and the reasons for social relationship difficulties requires attention to the kinds of goals children are pursuing in specific so...
Predicting denture success

Abstract Many dentists are not very perceptive of the wishes and feelings of patients. We tend to treat all patients the same, with the same scheduling, same inadequate preparation, and the same fee. We can provide better care than this. We can enhance our prognostic capability for more accurate prediction. We can tailor our treatment to meet the specific needs of individual patients. We can adjust our fees to provide compensation for the time spent. The end result will be an increased number of patients who are satisfied with their prosthodontic care.
Use of Insulin to Improve Glycemic Control in Diabetes Mellitus

The restoration of normoglycemia ensures the control of diabetic symptoms and reduction in microangiopathic complications in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. However, there is no conclusive evidence that intensive glycemic control alone will prevent macrovascular disease, the commonest cause of morbidity and mortality in type 2 diabetes. As atherosclerosis is an inflammatory condition, it is relevant that the two common insulin resistant states of obesity and type 2 diabetes have significant inflammatory processes, which promote atherosclerosis. It is also relevant that glucose has been shown to have profound effects on the endothelial cell, the leukocyte and the platelet. These effects include the induction of acute oxidative and inflammatory stress and a prothrombotic and pro-apoptotic effect following glucose intake. In contrast insulin has been shown to exert several biological effects at physiologically relevant concentrations, in relation to the endothelial cell, the platelet and leucocyte function, which may be cardioprotective and potentially anti-atherosclerotic. These findings are of great interest as it is possible that the prevention of macrovascular complications in type 2 diabetes may require the use of those glucose lowering drugs which have additional anti-inflammatory effects in addition to the control of comorbid conditions (hypertension and dyslipidemia) associated with this disease. Results of future clinical trials are awaited to confirm the benefits of this approach in the primary and secondary prevention of macrovascular complications in type 2 diabetes.
The Drosophila F-box protein Archipelago controls levels of the Trachealess transcription factor in the embryonic tracheal system

The archipelago gene (ago) encodes the F-box specificity subunit of an SCF(skp-cullin-f box) ubiquitin ligase that inhibits cell proliferation in Drosophila melanogaster and suppresses tumorigenesis in mammals. ago limits mitotic activity by targeting cell cycle and cell growth proteins for ubiquitin-dependent degradation, but the diverse developmental roles of other F-box proteins suggests that it is likely to have additional protein targets. Here we show that ago is required for the post-mitotic shaping of the Drosophila embryonic tracheal system, and that it acts in this tissue by targeting the Trachealess (Trh) protein, a conserved bHLH-PAS transcription factor. ago restricts Trh levels in vivo and antagonizes transcription of the breathless FGF receptor, a known target of Trh in the tracheal system. At a molecular level, the Ago protein binds Trh and is required for proteasome-dependent elimination of Trh in response to expression of the Dysfusion protein. ago mutations that elevate Trh levels in vivo are defective in binding forms of Trh found in Dysfusion-positive cells. These data identify a novel function for the ago ubiquitin-ligase in tracheal morphogenesis via Trh and its target breathless, and suggest that ago has distinct functions in mitotic and post-mitotic cells that influence its role in development and disease.
Primary total knee arthroplasty in the valgus knee: creating a balanced soft tissue envelope

Lateral tissue releases in valgus total knee arthroplasty frequently produce asymmetric flexion-extension gaps and ligamentous instability. This study compared 2 lateral-release sequences and quantified the effects of sequential lateral capsular ligamentous structure release. One knee from 7 paired specimens was released according to a 4-step sequence: posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), ibiotibial tract (IT band), popliteus tendon/lateral collateral ligament (PT/LCL), and biceps femoris tendon. The contralateral knees were released according to a 5-step sequence: PCL, posterolateral capsule, IT band, PT, and LCL. After each release step, flexion and extension gaps were measured and recorded for the medial and lateral aspects. The 5-step sequence produced more symmetric flexion-extension gaps, whereas the absolute magnitudes of correction were lower than with the 4-step sequence. LCL sacrifice in both sequences produced marked lateral flexion-extension gap asymmetry.
Anticoagulants and transaminase elevation.

Case 1: Mr F., a 65-year-old man with hypertension and atrial fibrillation, began long-term anticoagulation with warfarin 1 year ago. He presented with a 1-week history of nausea, anorexia, jaundice, and altered mental status. His laboratory workup showed elevated serum transaminases and direct bilirubin. Could warfarin be potentially responsible? Case 2: Mr S., a 75-year-old man with diabetes and coronary artery disease, presented with an acute anterior myocardial infarction. Echocardiography showed a left ventricular aneurysm with apical akinesis and thrombus. He was started on enoxaparin, and 3 days later, he developed a rise in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) >5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN). Could this laboratory abnormality be related to enoxaparin? Drug-induced hepatotoxicity is the most common cause of acute liver failure in the United States and is the most frequently cited reason for withdrawal of an approved drug from the market.1 It occurs at rates of 1 in 1000 to 1 in 100 000 patients, making it difficult to detect in the premarketing randomized controlled trials that are required for drug approval.2 Anticoagulant-induced liver injury has been infrequently reported. Case reports have described the association of anticoagulants with asymptomatic elevation of serum transaminases, clinically significant hepatitis, and fatal liver failure.3–22 As an increasing number of patients receive long-term anticoagulation for prevention of stroke and venous thromboembolism, the rare adverse event of anticoagulant-induced liver injury is gaining attention. Ximelagatran is an oral direct thrombin inhibitor that prevents the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin by thrombin. This agent is a prodrug and is converted to its active form, melagatran, via hepatic metabolism.23 It has a short half-life, requires twice daily administration, and produces a predictable response after oral administration. It does not require anticoagulant-level or drug-level monitoring, and it has virtually no drug-drug or drug-food …
Managing In-Class Projects: Setting them Up to Succeed

This article describes a structured method for management professors to help students succeed with in-class projects and presentations. The method described provides a highly structured process in which instructors coach students toward success. The article describes two learning modules that emphasize skills needed for project management and for making an effective oral presentation. It concludes with student reactions, a possible theoretical explanation for the success of the methods used, and practical implications for business.
Letter to the Editor---Metaphysical Considerations Involved in Choosing a Measure of Effectiveness

What is a measure of effectiveness? Let us not waste time mincing over definitions. A measure of effectiveness is a quantitative expression of the degree to which a system fulfills its objective.
Translational switch for long term maintenance of synaptic plasticity

Memory can last a lifetime, yet synaptic contacts that contribute to the storage of memory are composed of proteins that have much shorter lifetimes. A physiological model of memory formation, long-term potentiation (LTP), has a late protein-synthesis-dependent phase (L-LTP) that can last for many hours in slices or even for days in vivo. Could the activity-dependent synthesis of new proteins account for the persistence of L-LTP and memory? Here, we examine the proposal that a selfsustaining regulation of translation can form a bistable switch that can persistently regulate the onsite synthesis of plasticity-related proteins. We show that an aCaMKII–CPEB1 molecular pair can operate as a bistable switch. Our results imply that L-LTP should produce an increase in the total amount of aCaMKII at potentiated synapses. This study also proposes an explanation for why the application of protein synthesis and aCaMKII inhibitors at the induction and maintenance phases of L-LTP result in very different outcomes.
Initial response of a mixed-conifer understory plant community to burning and thinning restoration treatments

Mechanical thinning and prescribed fire are widely used to restore western forests after a century of fire suppression, yet we know little about how these treatments affect understory communities where plant diversity is highest. We followed understory plants and environmental factors in old-growth, Sierran mixed conifer for two pre-treatment and three post-treatment years using a full-factorial combination of burning and thinning treatments. Treatments significantly changed species composition through a highly localized combination of disturbance intensity interacting with pre-treatment vegetation patches. Pre-treatment richness was most significantly associated with soil moisture; after treatments additional variables became associated with richness and cover. Neither burning nor thinning alone significantly increased richness or cover. Species that increased significantly in cover were associated with conditions of burn/thin combinations: increased light and soil moisture caused by thinning, and burning's reduction of litter, slash, and shrub cover. Our study suggests that the means by which forests are restored affects understory diversity and cover. Prescribed fire was most effective for increasing understory diversity and reducing shrub cover, but when applied off-season, additional fuels provided by mechanical thinning increased burn area and intensity, reducing litter and slash and increasing herb richness and abundance.
Novel therapies in the pipeline: Directions of research into platelet inhibition

Background: Ischemic stroke is one of the foremost causes of death and disability in the industrialized world. Apart from both primary and secondary prevention with oral antiplatelet agents, acute treatment is currently limited to recombinant tissue plasminogen activator and interventional therapy. The occurrence of re-thrombosis during and after these interventions clearly indicate the need for further application of novel agents in the treatment of stroke. Platelet Function: Current antiplatelet agents in use affect platelet aggregation at different steps. The common limiting factor is the observed occurrence of intracerebral hemorrhage in the setting of acute stroke. Platelet Inhibition: Selective inhibition of glycoproteins has been employed already (GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors) but there are other glycoproteins that can be targeted. This is based on research that shows that monoclonal antibody mediated inhibition decreases the burden of disease in mouse models of stroke. A new drug that targets the A1 domain of activated von Willebrand factor that attaches to GP Ib is potentially another way of solving the thrombosis puzzle with the promise that intracerebral hemorrhage would be limited. Conclusion: The continuing search for acceptable levels of platelet inhibition during cerebral ischemic events while minimizing the risk of potentially fatal hemorrhagic side effects is leading the way to selective targeting of the platelet signaling cascade. This raises hope that future therapy will be more effective while having a more favorable safety profile.
Convergence analysis of a parametric robust H/sub 2/ controller synthesis algorithm

This paper presents an iterative algorithm for solving the parametric robust H/sub 2/ controller synthesis problem and analyzes the convergence properties of the algorithm on several examples. It is difficult to make concrete statements about the behavior of the iterative algorithms, except that it is often conjectured that the cost in each step of the solution procedure is reduced, which implies that the algorithms should converge to a local minimum. Similar difficulties exist for the new LMI-based iterative algorithm that we have recently proposed (1997) to solve the bilinear matrix inequalities that occur in robust H/sub 2/ control design. The effectiveness of the new algorithm has already been demonstrated on several numerical examples. This paper verifies that it efficiently converges to the optimal solution. In the process, we provide some new key insights on the proposed design technique which indicate that it exhibits properties similar to the D-K iteration of the complex /spl mu//K/sub m/-synthesis.
Engaging Stories: Constructing Narratives of Women’s Military Band Members

In this narrative account we engage the stories of Doris and Pat, two military bandswomen who share “similar contours of experience” (Richardson L, Fields of play: constructing an academic life. Rutgers University Press, New Brunswick, p. 19, 1997) despite serving in two different decades and countries, one during a time of war and the other in a time of relative peace. Confronted with multiple narrative possibilities, we wrestle with the implications of authorial privilege and question the ways in which our own life experiences and positionalities influence our retelling of Doris and Pat’s stories. We advocate not for a particular narrative technique but rather for a way of being in narrative that is grounded in humility and an openness to ambiguity.
Phase boundary of dilute lattice spin glasses

Abstract Based on a recently developed algorithm for the exploration of ground states in bond-diluted lattice spin glasses, we determine the scaling of defect energies with system size for Ising spin glasses at the bond percolation threshold p c . The results can be related by well-known scaling relations to the shape of the transition temperature T g ∼ ( p - p c ) φ between the paramagnetic and glassy regime for p → p c . The numerical results in three dimensions are consistent with rather old experimental data for ( Fe x Ni 1 - x ) 75 P 16 B 6 A 3 , suggesting that new experimental work may be able to put those numerical predictions to the test.
The Marketization of the Nonprofit Sector: Civil Society at Risk?

The public sector has increasingly adopted the methods and values of the market to guide policy creation and management. Several public administration scholars in the United States have pointed out the problems with this, especially in relation to the impact on democracy and citizenship. Similarly, nonprofit organizations are adopting the approaches and values of the private market, which may harm democracy and citizenship because of its impact on nonprofit organizations’ ability to create and maintain a strong civil society. This article reviews the major marketization trends occurring within the nonprofit sector—commercial revenue generation, contract competition, the influence of new and emerging donors, and social entrepreneurship—and surveys research on their potential impact on nonprofit organizations’ contributions to civil society. The article ends with a discussion of the significance of marketization in the nonprofit sector for public administration scholars and public managers.
Group A Streptococcal Pharyngitis Serotype Surveillance in North America, 2000–2002

Geographic and interseasonal heterogeneity of pharyngeal group A streptococcal (GAS) genotypes (emm types) is poorly characterized. We evaluated emm type and subtype distribution among pediatric pharyngitis isolates obtained from 9 sites in the United States during 2000–2001 (year 1) and from 10 sites in the United States and 1 site in Canada during 2001–2002 (year 2). The 7 predominant types were the same in both years, although their order changed. emm 12, 1, and 28 accounted for 49.2% of year 1 isolates, and emm 1, 12, and 4 accounted for 47.1% of year 2 isolates; 6 types accounted for 72.1% in year 1 and 69.4% in year 2. From year 1 to year 2, the proportions of emm 12 and 28 decreased and emm 1 and 6 increased. Striking intersite and interseasonal variations in the distribution of predominant emm types were observed. We conclude that the most-predominant GAS genotypes were similar for each year despite fluctuations, that intersite and intrasite variations in the distribution of emm types were apparent, and that emm type surveillance is needed as M protein vaccine development proceeds.
FREIGHT TRAVEL DEMAND MODELING: SYNTHESIS OF APPROACHES AND DEVELOPMENT OF A FRAMEWORK

It is increasingly being recognized at all levels of decision making that freight transportation and economic development are inextricably linked. As a result, many urban entities and states are embarking upon comprehensive freight transportation planning efforts aimed at ensuring safe, efficient, and smooth movement of freight along multimodal and intermodal networks. Over the past few decades there has been considerable published research on (1) freight transportation factors, (2) freight travel demand modeling methods, (3) freight transportation planning issues, and (4) freight data needs, deficiencies, and collection methods. A synthesis of the body of knowledge in these four areas is provided with a view to developing a comprehensive statewide freight transportation planning framework. The proposed framework consists of two interrelated components that facilitate demand estimation and decision making in the freight transportation sector.
Scalability analysis of location management protocols for mobile ad hoc networks

Geography based routing in mobile ad hoc networks is an application that uses the location information of nodes in a network to route data packets. Since the amount of network state information that each node needs to maintain in order to route packets is minimal, location based routing is considered scalable compared to existing routing protocols in ad hoc networks. However, geographic routing requires location management, where the locations of destination nodes needs to be found before the actual routing can begin. Many location management schemes have been proposed in the literature, but no prior work has quantitatively compared the scalability of these protocols with respect to the increase in the number of nodes in the network. In this work, we use a theoretical framework to show the asymptotic scalability of three location management protocols. We also carry out extensive simulations to study the performance of these protocols under practical considerations. Our results indicate that all protocols perform well, with a slight performance degradation with the increasing network size. In particular, the hierarchical grid location management protocol (HGRID) performs the best for all practical purposes, and is a candidate for location management in a wireless network architecture.
Hospital care watch (HCW): an ontology and rule-based intelligent patient management assistant

Hospital care watch (HCW) is a prototype medical intelligent assistant to improve patient care and safety and to reduce medical errors in the hospital setting. The system is based on an ontology of hospital care concepts including hospital activities, procedures, and policies, and insurance policies, as well as medical knowledge per se. A set of abstract rule types model general situations that need to be identified to detect potential problems and particular instantiations of those rule types identify individual situations. The system is not designed to provide medical diagnosis or other professional decision making; but rather to track the implications of such medical decisions taken by physicians and other medical professionals within the context of the guidelines and regulations of the medical environment, and the background of established medical knowledge.
Influenza-virus membrane fusion by cooperative fold-back of stochastically induced hemagglutinin intermediates

Influenza virus penetrates cells by fusion of viral and endosomal membranes catalyzed by the viral hemagglutinin (HA). Structures of the initial and final states of the HA trimer define the fusion endpoints, but do not specify intermediates. We have characterized these transitions by analyzing low-pH-induced fusion kinetics of individual virions and validated the analysis by computer simulation. We detect initial engagement with the target membrane of fusion peptides from independently triggered HAs within the larger virus-target contact patch; fusion then requires engagement of three or four neighboring HA trimers. Effects of mutations in HA indicate that withdrawal of the fusion peptide from a pocket in the pre-fusion trimer is rate-limiting for both events, but the requirement for cooperative action of several HAs to bring the fusing membranes together leads to a long-lived intermediate state for single, extended HA trimers. This intermediate is thus a fundamental aspect of the fusion mechanism. DOI: 10.7554/eLife.00333.001
Why prevention? Why now?

In 1995, the American Medical Association declared sexual abuse a "silent, violent epidemic." Since that declaration, there has been a growing acceptance and awareness of the need for a broader public health approach to preventing sexual violence. However, it is only recently that individuals and organizations are beginning to look at the root causes of sexual violence and how to prevent first time perpetration of sexual violence--preventing sexual abuse before anyone is harmed. This article provides an overview of the shifts in our language, perspective, and policies regarding how we view preventing the perpetration of sexual abuse, and argues that we must adopt and invest in a prevention approach whose goal is to, first and foremost, prevent sexual violence before anyone is harmed. Language: en
Effectiveness of school-based telehealth care in urban and rural elementary schools.

Objective. This study evaluated the quality and cost effectiveness of health care provided in urban and rural elementary school-based telehealth centers, using plain old telephone system (POTS) technology. Methods. A telehealth school-based model was developed that used a full-time school nurse, half-time mental-health consultant, linked pediatric practice, and linked child psychiatrist via POTS with an electronic stethoscope; ears, nose, and throat endoscope; and otoscope. One rural and 1 urban center were evaluated. Providers, nurses, children, and parents completed satisfaction questionnaires. Providers and nurses also evaluated how well telemedicine supported their clinical decision making. Parents were asked how use of the center affected them financially and at work. Results. Of the combined 3461 visits to school nurses at both centers, 4.3% resulted in 150 telehealth consultations referrals; 142 (95%) were completed during the 2-year project. The most common teleconsult diagnoses were otitis media, pharyngitis, dermatitis, and upper respiratory infections. Provider, nurse, child, and parent satisfaction all were high. Providers’ and nurses’ decision confidence scores ranged from a low of 4 to a high of 4.8 on a 5-point scale. Average family savings per encounter were 3.4 hours of work time ($43) and $177 in emergency department or $54 in physician costs. Including travel, savings for families ranged from $101 to $224 per encounter. Thirteen children received telepsychiatric evaluations resulting in diagnoses of depression and attention-deficit/hyperactivity, anxiety, and conduct disorders. Conclusions. Telehealth technology was effective in delivering pediatric acute care to children in these schools. Pediatric providers, nurses, parents, and children reported primary care school-based telehealth as an acceptable alternative to traditional health care delivery systems. The POTS-based technology helps to make this telehealth service a cost-effective alternative for improving access to primary and psychiatric health care for underserved children.
Social Class Culture Cycles: How Three Gateway Contexts Shape Selves and Fuel Inequality

America’s unprecedented levels of inequality have far-reaching negative consequences for society as a whole. Although differential access to resources contributes to inequality, the current review illuminates how ongoing participation in different social class contexts also gives rise to culture-specific selves and patterns of thinking, feeling, and acting. We integrate a growing body of interdisciplinary research to reveal how social class culture cycles operate over the course of the lifespan and through critical gateway contexts, including homes, schools, and workplaces. We first document how each of these contexts socializes social class cultural differences. Then, we demonstrate how these gateway institutions, which could provide access to upward social mobility, are structured according to middle-class ways of being a self and thus can fuel and perpetuate inequality. We conclude with a discussion of intervention opportunities that can reduce inequality by taking into account the contextual responsiveness of the self.