cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dissection of an Ulnar Nerve Previously Transposed and Wrapped with Human Amniotic Membrane: A Report of 3 Cases.

Cases We present 3 patients who underwent ulnar nerve transposition and wrapping of the nerve with human amniotic membrane (HAM). All 3 patients subsequently required a reoperation for the original pathologic condition (not for ulnar nerve symptoms), necessitating the exploration and dissection of the transposed ulnar nerve. We demonstrate the lack of scar formation and ease of separation between nerve and surrounding tissue, as well as histology in one case taken from the perineural tissues (previous amniotic membrane), demonstrating no inflammatory cells or absence of scar tissue formation. Conclusion Exploration and dissection of a previously transposed ulnar nerve can be facilitated by wrapping the nerve with HAM to prevent scarring and perineural fibrosis.
Association between teachers’ shared book reading strategies and children’s vocabulary development in rural China preschools:

Shared book reading is among the most common activities in preschools and is a key teaching practice to improve children’s language and literacy skills. The purpose of this research is to investiga...
Completing the Research Article Writing Process in An Introductory Course

How well can students exposed to political science for the first time work through the research article writing process? Previous research has introduced selected research article writing skills to...
TO SPEAK OR NOT TO SPEAK: MUSINGS ON JUDICIAL SILENCE

There are three branches of government in the American system, but only two branches may speak forthrightly to the public and participate in the political dialogue. The executive and the legislature criticize each other, and their third branch, the judiciary, virtually without limitation. The judiciary, more reticent by temperament and rule, is supposed to speak only through formal opinions, general discourses on the administration of justice, and the occasional scholarly talk or article. In the past, this arrangement made institutional sense. The executive and the legislature were elected, and directly accountable to the public. They had to participate in the political process, with all the tools at their disposal. The federal judiciary, appointed for life, did not have to speak outside of its usual channels of communication. The pressures to “announce” one’s views on a host of legal views—pressures which elected judges felt—were or should be irrelevant to federal judges with life tenure. The arrangement even made political sense: While judges have been criticized, even attacked throughout our history, it is fair to say that the institution as a whole and surely individual judges were respected, for the most part. That respect was obviously essential; the legitimacy of the institution rested on it.
Intergenerational Transmission of Stress in Humans

The hypothesis that offspring are affected by parental trauma or stress exposure, first noted anecdotally, is now supported empirically by data from Holocaust survivor offspring cohorts and other populations. These findings have been extended to less extreme forms of stress, where differential physical, behavioral, and cognitive outcomes are observed in affected offspring. Parental stress-mediated effects in offspring could be explained by genetics or social learning theory. Alternatively, biological variations stemming from stress exposure in parents could more directly have an impact on offspring, a concept we refer to here as 'intergenerational transmission', via changes to gametes and the gestational uterine environment. We further extend this definition to include the transmission of stress to offspring via early postnatal care, as animal studies demonstrate the importance of early maternal care of pups in affecting offsprings' long-term behavioral changes. Here, we review clinical observations in offspring, noting that offspring of stress- or trauma-exposed parents may be at greater risk for physical, behavioral, and cognitive problems, as well as psychopathology. Furthermore, we review findings concerning offspring biological correlates of parental stress, in particular, offspring neuroendocrine, epigenetic, and neuroanatomical changes, in an attempt to determine the extent of parental stress effects. Although understanding the etiology of effects in offspring is currently impeded by methodological constraints, and limitations in our knowledge, we summarize current information and conclude by presenting hypotheses that have been prompted by recent studies in the field.
Differences in Mouse and Human Nonmemory B Cell Pools

Identifying cross-species similarities and differences in immune development and function is critical for maximizing the translational potential of animal models. Coexpression of CD21 and CD24 distinguishes transitional and mature B cell subsets in mice. In this study, we validate these markers for identifying analogous subsets in humans and use them to compare the nonmemory B cell pools in mice and humans, across tissues, and during fetal/neonatal and adult life. Among human CD19(+)IgM(+) B cells, the CD21/CD24 schema identifies distinct populations that correspond to transitional 1 (T1), transitional 2 (T2), follicular mature, and marginal zone subsets identified in mice. Markers specific to human B cell development validate the identity of marginal zone cells and the maturation status of human CD21/CD24 nonmemory B cell subsets. A comparison of the nonmemory B cell pools in bone marrow, blood, and spleen in mice and humans shows that transitional B cells comprise a much smaller fraction in adult humans than mice. T1 cells are a major contributor to the nonmemory B cell pool in mouse bone marrow, in which their frequency is more than twice that in humans. Conversely, in spleen, the T1:T2 ratio shows that T2 cells are proportionally ∼ 8-fold higher in humans than in mice. Despite the relatively small contribution of transitional B cells to the human nonmemory pool, the number of naive follicular mature cells produced per transitional B cell is 3- to 6-fold higher across tissues than in mice. These data suggest differing dynamics or mechanisms produce the nonmemory B cell compartments in mice and humans.
Intestinal Lipoprotein Formation: Effect of Cholchicine

The possibility that microtubules might be involved in intestinal lipoprotein formation or secretion was studied by determining the effect of colchicine, a known microtubule inhibitor, on intestinal lipid absorption. The effect of colchicine (0.5 mg per 100 g) in the lymphatic absorption of [14C]oleic acid was studied in rats with indwelling mesenteric lymph cannulas. Colchicine-treated animals showed a marked delay as well as a decrease in the lympatic absorption of [14C]oleic acid. Chylomicrons from colchicine-treated animals showed no difference in apoprotein content when examined on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. Micellar lipid absorption was next studied from in situ jejunal loops in animals pretreated with colchicine. Colchicine administration was associated with a 3-fold increase in residual mucosal lipid when compared with controls. Thin layer chromatography of residual lipid demonstrated that residual lipid was largely present as triglyceride, suggesting that the impairment in lipid transport induced by colchicine was at a site distal to triglyceride resynthesis. Electron microscopic examination of intestine from colchicine-treated animals revealed that most residual lipid was present within the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi in numerous particles the size of chylomicrons (0.2 to 0.4 mu). These results suggest that the impairment in lipid transport induced by colchicine is distal and, in part, may represent an "exit block". These results suggest a possible role for microtubules in intestinal lipid transport. However, further studies are required to demonstrate directly the participation of microtubules in chylomicron secretion.
Biosynthesis of the Peptidoglycan of Bacterial Cell Walls XVIII. PURIFICATION AND PROPERTIES OF l-ALANYL TRANSFER RIBONUCLEIC ACID-URIDINE DIPHOSPHATE-N-ACETYLMURAMYL-PENTAPEPTIDE TRANSFERASE FROM LACTOBACILLUS VIRIDESCENS

Abstract The enzyme which catalyzes the transfer of l-alanine from l-alanyl transfer RNA to UDP-N-acetylmuramyl-l-Ala-d-Glu-l-Lys-d-Ala-d-Ala has been purified to homogeneity, as shown by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, from an extract of Lactobacillus viridescens. This enzyme has a molecular weight of 40,000 as judged from gel electrophoresis. It also catalyzes transfer reactions involving l-seryl-tRNA, l-cysteinyl-tRNA and, to some extent, glycyl-tRNA and will also utilize l-alanyl-tRNAcys prepared by reduction of l-cysteinyl-tRNA with Raney nickel. It thus has virtually no specificity for the tRNA molecule involved in the transfer reaction. It has a somewhat higher, although not strict specificity, for the amino acid transferred.
COMPARISON OF BOTANICAL COMPOSITION, SOIL CARBON CONTENT, AND ROOT DISTRIBUTION OF SUBIRRIGATED MEADOWS IN THE NEBRASKA SANDHILLS

Characterizing vegetation composition, carbon/nitrogen (C/N) content of soils, and root-mass distribution is critical to understanding carbon sequestration potential of subirrigated meadows in the Nebraska Sandhills. Five subirrigated meadows dominated by cool-season (C3) graminoids and five meadows dominated by warm-season (C4) grasses were selected throughout the Nebraska Sandhills. Vegetation, soil carbon and ni trogen, and root-mass density distribution were sampled in each meadow. Meadows dominated by C3 vegetation had 12% greater (P < 0.1) yields than meadows dominated by C4 vegetation. Total root-mass density was 30% greater (P < 0.1) in C4-dominated meadows than C3-dominated meadows. Total carbon and nitrogen content was 65% and 53% greater (P < 0.1), respectively, in the A horizon of C3-dominated meadows, but was 43% and 52% greater (P < 0.1), respectively, in the C horizon of C4-dominated meadows. Although meadows dominated by C3 vegetation had more carbon in the soil profile, much of the carbon in C3-dominated meadows appeared to be recalcitrant C4 carbon from historic vegetation.
Energia y asentamientos humanos en el caribe del este ; desafios y oportunidades

Based on a review of the energy situation in the countries of the Eastern Caribbean, Antigua, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and Granada and in particular as it relates to the rural population and the urban poor, the author argues in favor of incorporating a spatial dimension to energy development planning and implementation. It is suggested that energy planning at the human settlement level is capable of incorporating the essentially local aspects of non conventional energy development, a pre-requisite for achieving a more self-reliant energy situation in the Eastern Caribbean. Facts and figures concerning the increasingly large burden that energy imports is representing for the development of these countries are reviewed side by side with data concerning non conventional energy development opportunities and problemes. They constitute the background against which the author substanciate his proposals.
ALTERNATE CONCEPTS FOR MAGNETIC FUSION

ABSTRACT Concepts for magnetic confinement are reviewed for desirability as fusion reactors. Physics and technology advantages, uncertainties, and problems are discussed. Alternate fuel cycles, including D-D, D-He 3 , and p-Li 6 , are considered for possible advantages over D-T. Concepts currently under investigation which offer potential improvement over tokamaks include tandem mirrors, Elmo Bumpy Torus, compact tori encompassing reversed field mirrors, reversed field theta pinches and spheromak, stellarators, multipoles, and reversed field Z pinches.
Carrier detection of pyruvate carboxylase deficiency in fibroblasts and lymphocytes.

Summary: Pyruvate carboxylase (E.C. 6.4.1.1) activity was determined in the circulating peripheral lymphocytes and cultured skin fibroblasts from the family of a patient with hepatic, cerebral, renal cortical, leukocyte, and fibroblast pyruvate carboxylase deficiency (PCPortland deficiency). Lymphocyte activities were: mother, 33–39%; father, 11–29%; brother, 82–103%; and sister, 38–48% of the lowest normal. Fibroblasts from the patient's mother and father had 42 and 34%, respectively, of the activity of the lowest normal. These data demonstrate that the disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner and that lymphocytes and fibroblasts can be used to detect carriers. Neither pyruvate carboxylase nor mitochondrial PEPCK activity in lymphocytes was increased by a 21-hr fast. Speculation: The demonstration that carriers of pyruvate carboxylase deficiency can be detected with a venous blood sample may allow, with the use of extensive family studies, the assignment of this enzyme to a chromosomal linkage group.
Macrophages: a source of luteotropic cybernins.

A macrophage homogenate contained substances which stimulated primary cultures of mouse granulosa cells to secrete more progesterone. The response to the luteotropic substances was similar to that observed when intact macrophages were co-cultured with granulosa cells. The bioactive polypeptides present in cytosolic and particulate fractions of cell homogenates were non-dialyzable, heat labile and trypsin sensitive. When the surface of intact macrophages was treated with trypsin there was a loss of activity from the particulate fraction suggesting that some luteotropic proteins reside on the plasma membrane of mononuclear phagocytes. Treatment of macrophages with Con A but not the succinyl derivative of the lectin caused a release of luteo-tropic proteins with apparent molecular weights of 26,000 and 41,000. These findings in conjunction with our prior observation that macrophages must contact granulosa cells to stimulate progesterone secretion suggest that aggregation of mononuclear cell surface proteins ...
Are nerve conduction studies useful for monitoring the adequacy of renal dialysis

When hemodialysis was first used clinically, a peripheral neuropathy frequently emerged. The discovery that sufficient dialysis time would prevent the emergence of symptomatic neuropathy led to the routine use of nerve conduction studies (NCS) to monitor the "adequacy" of dialysis. Modern dialysis practice has evolved since then, and the patient population is markedly different. This report addresses the question of whether there is evidence to indicate that routine use of NCS is helpful to monitor the adequacy of present-day dialysis. A critical review of the available literature reveals that there is insufficient evidence to allow one to answer the question.
Older Persons Parenting Children Who Have Lost a Parent Due to HIV

This article reviews scholarship regarding older relatives raising minor children in order to highlight the situation of caregivers raising minor children who have lost a parent because of HIV. HlV-af- fected families are a relatively new type of intergenerati onal grouping which deserve a closer examination. It is likely that the phenomenon of HIV-affected custodial caregiving grandparents will increase, and it is vi- tal that policy makers, practitioners, and researchers explore their needs and assets. The particular challenges of HIV-affected grandfamilies are explored, then policy and practice issues are addressed in light of their par- ticular relevance for HIV-affected surrogate parents, doi: 10.13(X)/J 194vO5nO4_06 (Article copies available for a fee from Tlie Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1 -800-HAWORTH. E-mail address: Website: © 2007 by The Haworth Press. All rights re- served.)
Further Development of a Model for Rod Ricochet

A ricochet model for long rods developed by the author has been revisited in search of solution efficiencies. By replacing a moment-of-momentum governing equation in the original model with a simpler minimization constraint, a solution technique has been developed that avoids the complexity of an iterative solution that characterized the original work. The revised model retains key elements of the original model, including: ricochet by way of plastic hinge formation; rod rebound from the target's ricochet surface; and target gouging as a means to redirect the target force's line of action. Finally, the ricochet equations are analytically rendered so as to give a keen sense of how the critical obliquity for ricochet varies as a function of the initial conditions of the ballistic engagement.
Optimal traffic grooming and regenerator placement in WDM optical networks

We consider traffic grooming and regenerator placement in an optical network in which lightpaths are hop-constrained by impairments. Combining grooming with regenerator placement reduces costs compared to addressing traffic grooming and regenerator placement separately.
Operating room versus office-based injection laryngoplasty: a comparative analysis of reimbursement.

Background: Injection laryngoplasty (IL) continues to evolve as new indications, techniques, approaches, and injection materials are developed. Although historically performed under local or general anesthesia in the operating room suite, IL is now increasingly being performed in an office-based setting. This report presents the results of a reimbursement analysis comparing office-based versus operative IL. Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the reimbursement of office-based injection laryngoplasty with the reimbursement of performing the same procedure in the operating room. Design: The authors conducted reimbursement and outcome analysis through retrospective office chart and hospital record review. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of the hospital records of patients having undergone injection laryngoplasty at the University of Pittsburgh Voice Center from July 1998 through March 2005. Group I included patients who underwent IL in the operating room, whereas group II included those who had office-based IL. A reimbursement analysis for both groups was then performed comparing surgeon fees, anesthesia, and hospital charges and reimbursement. The clinical efficacy of IL performed in either office versus operating room settings was measured by comparing the pre- and postintervention Voice Handicap Index-10 scores for all patients. A predictive model of potential cost savings is developed based on the results of the analysis. Results: Average reimbursement was $2,505 for group I (n = 108) and $496 for group II (n = 50). This reimbursement differential was preserved across the various insurance types examined. There was no significant difference in Voice Handicap Index-10 change after surgery between group I and II. Conclusions: Office-based IL is both clinically and financially effective, providing patients with a convenient and flexible alternative to operating room-based intervention for glottal insufficiency.
Schlieren and Shadowgraph Images of Transient Expanding Spherical Thin Flames

Experimental facilities have been built to visualize transient expanding spherical flames. Facilities include a cylindrical chamber with two end glasses for optical observation. Shadowgraph and Schlieren pictures of flame propagation have been taken using a high speed Charged Coupled Device (CCD) camera. In this paper the optical behavior of spherical flames has been investigated using both Schlieren and Shadowgraph methods. A mathematical model has been developed to predict the intensity of refracted light beams interacting with a transient expanding thin flame. Experimental results are in very good agreement with theoretical model. Schlieren and Shadowgraph techniques have also been used to view smooth, cracked and cellular flames, which are useful in determining the stability of propagating flame.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Pushed aside: parentheticals, memory and processing

In the current work, we test the hypothesis that 'at-issue' and 'not-at-issue' content (Potts, 2005) are processed semi-independently. In a written rating study comparing restrictive relative clauses and parentheticals in interrogatives and declaratives, we observe a significantly larger length penalty for restrictive relative clauses than for parentheticals. This difference cannot be attributed to differences in how listeners allocate attention across a sentence: a second study confirms that readers are equally sensitive to agreement violations in at-issue and not-at-issue content. A third rating experiment showed that the results do not depend on the restrictive relative clause intervening on the subject-verb dependency. A final experiment showed that the observed effects obtain with definite determiners and demonstratives alike. Taken jointly the results suggest that the parenthetical structures are processed independently of their embedding utterance, which in turn suggests that syntactic memory may be more differentiated than is typically assumed.
Chemiluminescence in the gas phase reaction between tetrakis(dimethylamino)ethylene and oxygen

Abstract Chemiluminescence from the reaction between tetrakis(dimethylamino)ethylene (TMAE) and oxygen in the gas phase is reported. It was found that the spectrum of the emitted light showed a broad band with a maximum at about 500 nm, which is similar to what has been reported from liquid phase work and similar to the fluorescence spectrum of pure TMAE. The liquid phase chemiluminescence is well known and has been postulated to occur via a proton donor leading to an ionic complex. If the same emitter is formed in the gas phase, the reaction probably occurs via free radicals. The emission in the range 10-45 °C was studied as a function of pressures of oxygen and TMAE. The effect of added hydroxylic compounds in the gas phase was to increase the emitted intensity but their presence was not necessary for chemiluminiscence, contrary to what has been claimed for liquid phase work. The emission was very long lived for a gas phase reaction in a closed system and was measurable after about 30 min under some conditions. Both peak and integrated light intensities decreased mardedly as the temperature was raised at the same reactant concentrations and were very weak above 45 °C. A mechanism is postulated which accounts for the behavior of the light emission and which was satisfactorily computer simulated.
Memory BIST for on-chip monitoring of resistive-open defects due to electromigration and stress-induced voiding in an SRAM array

We present a Built-in Self Test (BIST) methodology for on-chip failure analysis of via/contact voiding due to electromigration (EM) and stress-induced voiding (SIV) in SRAM cells. Our BIST system aims to detect wearout in faulty cells and identify the location of the failure in the cell. This enables more efficient physical failure analysis.
Holland's Theory and Career Intervention: The Power of the Hexagon☆☆☆

Abstract Arguably no theory of career development has had a greater influence on the practice of career counseling and education than Holland's. In this paper we identify several of the characteristics of the theory that contributed to its great utility for practitioners, describe several of the most commonly used interventions based on the theory, and discuss research findings and practitioner speculations that support the efficacy, utility, and popularity of those interventions.
Preservation of the mandible in the management of cancer of the oral cavity

Tumors of the oral cavity often involve or are in close proximity to the mandible. Treatment of the tumor will require addressing the mandible. For tumors that are not in proximity to the mandible a mandibulotomy may be required. This procedure will allow for adequate exposure of the tumor. Other tumors that abut or minimally involve the tumor may require removal of a piece of the mandible. When a full segmental resection is not required, a marginal resection can be performed. The techniques described in this article are useful adjuncts in the treatment of patients with head and neck tumors.
Streamer-Like Electrical Discharges in Water: Part I. Fundamental Mechanisms

Electrical discharge plasma formed in liquid water is under intensive investigation for many possible applications in biomedical, environmental and chemical engineering as well as for general scientific issues in plasma chemistry and other engineering applications. The subject of pulsed breakdown of water has additionally begun to assume importance due to growing interest in decontamination, purification of water containing chemical impurities and industrial sludge, and also in the emerging area of bio-electrics. This review paper focuses on the plasma physics (Part I) and chemistry of electrical discharges in liquid water and the chemical effects of plasmas on the degradation of organic molecules (Part II). This part discusses dielectric liquid breakdown and its mechanisms, streamer propagation and the effect of electrode polarity on streamer dynamics.
Fair Pay or Power Play? Pay Equity, Managerial Power, and Compensation Adjustments for CEOs

This study examines how firms use benchmarking information about peers to determine the compensation that they offer to chief executive officers (CEOs). It jointly addresses two distinct perspectives: pay equity and managerial power. Pay inequity provides strong motivation for CEOs to restore equity, by promoting the logic of external fairness and urging boards of directors to implement peer benchmarking and adjust the focal CEO’s compensation levels. Although pay inequity may motivate CEOs to restore equity, their reaction to inequity may be effective only when they have sufficient power over the board of directors to influence the pay-setting process. Results from a sample of 1,555 CEOs generally support predictions about the moderating effects of CEO power in the relationship between a focal CEO’s pay and peer CEOs’ pay. The compensation for underpaid CEOs with relatively greater power over the board is associated with their peers’ compensation, suggesting that peer benchmarking is more aggressively us...
Distributed Task Scheduling Subject to Arbitrary Constraints

Abstract This paper presents a distributed scheduling problem and a distributed algorithm to solve it. The problem is motivated by military missions where tasks are assigned to various vehicles and tasks must be scheduled to satisfy constraints between them. The distributed scheduling algorithm is capable of finding a solution in the presence of arbitrary scheduling constraints, e.g., logical or temporal constraints. These types of missions present the challenge of planning using computer systems that are distributed in the sense of information and authority. This motivates the development of distributed planning algorithms that can overcome these challenges. The distributed scheduling algorithm used here is demonstrated on an example involving two unmanned air vehicles and two unmanned ground vehicles and is shown to be correct and complete.
Degenerate four-wave mixing as a possible source of squeezed-state light

The suitability of degenerate four-wave mixing (DFWM) as a source of squeezed-state (two-photon coherent state) light is investigated, both theoretically and experimentally. In previous semiclassical theory, which neglected pump quantization and loss in the nonlinear medium, Yuen and Shapiro [Opt. Lett. 4, 334 (1979)] showed that such states would be generated by 50%-50% combination of the transmitted probe (TP) and the phase-conjugate (PC) output beams of DFWM. Here the effects of quantum fluctuations in the amplitudes and phases of the pump beams are calculated in a traveling-wave finite-interaction-length DFWM configuration. It is shown that in the limit of strong pump beams and weak nonlinear coupling, the classical-pumps assumption of Yuen and Shapiro is valid. With use of this assumption, loss in the nonlinear medium is incorporated into the model by coupling the interacting modes to a set of reservoir modes. It is shown that loss presents an absolute limit on the degree of squeezing that can be achieved with DFWM. Also, for comparison with experimental work, the photoelectron statistics of the TP, PC, and 50%-50% combination modes are calculated for lossy DFWM; significant deviations are found from the predictions for lossless operation. Quantum-noise measurements on the PC and TP beams generated in sodiumvapor DFWM are described. The mixer is pumped and probed by the nearly transform-limited pulses produced by a continuous-wave-oscillator-pulse-amplifier chain dye laser at 589 nm wave-length. The normalized second-factorial moment ${g}_{2}$ of the PC and TP beams is determined from photoelectron-counting measurements. Inability to simultaneously achieve high DFWM reflectivity and acceptably low scattered-plus-fluorescent background, coupled with low photomultiplier quantum efficiency, restrict the experiment to a DFWM regime wherein theory predicts Poisson statistics. Experimental ${g}_{2}$ values corroborate this prediction, indicating that systematic and excess noises have been eliminated. No attempt was made to measure the quantum statistics of the 50%-50% combination mode.
T cell responses in allergic rhinitis, asthma and atopic dermatitis

Although clinical responses to allergens have been shown to primarily involve IgE antibodies, there is often no clear correlation between the amount of allergen-specific IgE present in the serum and the nature and severity of allergic symptoms. This observation raises the question of the possible role of non-IgE mediated types of immune responses in this reaction. It is not known to what extent components of T cell-mediated immunity are involved in IgE-mediated reactions but several observations suggest an association between atopic disease and alterations in cellular immune function. These include the frequent association of high serum IgE levels with: (i) several of the primary and acquired immunodeficiencies characterized by partial T cell deficiency; (ii) the defective cell-mediated immunity and resultant recurrent infections seen in the hyper-IgE syndrome; and (iii) the sudden rise in serum IgE levels associated with reduced numbers of suppressor T cells in bone marrow transplant recipients during the acute graft vs host disease. In this review, we will examine the recent evidence suggesting that the T lymphocyte may play a primary role in the pathogenesis of atopic disorders.
Probability of Collapse Expression for Bridges Subject to Barge Collision

Accounting for waterway vessel collision is required in the structural design of bridges spanning navigable waterways. During collision events, massive waterway vessel groups such as barge flotillas are capable of dynamically transmitting horizontal forces to impacted bridge components. Furthermore, collision-induced forces can be sufficient to collapse piers or roadway spans in the vicinity of the impact location. If collapse takes place, economic loss is suffered because of subsequent traffic rerouting and bridge replacement costs. Additionally, fatalities may occur if the roadway is occupied during or shortly after collapse. This paper focuses on the development of a probability of collapse expression for bridge piers subject to barge impact loading, where the relationship can be readily integrated into existing bridge design methodologies. The expression is developed by employing probabilistic descriptions for a multitude of random variables related to barge traffic characteristics and bridge structures in conjunction with nonlinear dynamic finite-element analyses of barge-bridge collisions. Highly efficient, advanced probabilistic simulation techniques are necessarily incorporated into the barge-bridge collision analysis framework to allow feasible estimation of structural reliability parameters. These parameters facilitate the formation of an expression that, in turn, bridge designers can use to estimate probabilities of structural collapse attributable to barge collision, without performing probabilistic analyses.
Evaluating organizational efficiency resulting from information technology investment: An application of data envelopment analysis

Abstract. Even during this recessionary era, information technology (IT) expenditure in most organizations continues to grow at a high rate. Because of this increased IT expenditure, more and more senior managers are demanding that IT play a greater role in determining their firm's success by helping them increase organizational efficiencies and perhaps even achieve competitive advantage. The existing information systems literature on IT investment and organizational strategic performance, however, provides very little help to senior managers in making before-the-fact IT investment decisions. The present research study puts forth some ‘hard’ evidence relating IT investment to organizational strategic and economic performance by using data envelopment analysis (DEA). Eight IT investment measures were used as inputs and 10 organizational strategic and economic performance ratios were used as outputs for the DEA model. The results indicate that two-thirds of the organizations in this research study are deemed efficient by DEA. A clear distinction exists between the efficient group and the inefficient group in terms of IT investment and organizational strategic and economic performance. The firms in the efficient group had a much higher return on their information technology investment than the inefficient group. In addition, the DEA results pinpoint the inefficient inputs and deficient outputs for an inefficient firm allowing a senior manager to take corrective actions to compensate for the situation.
The AFWL hull code codes for large problems: fluid dynamics (abstract)

The Air Force Weapons Laboratory (AFWL) has maintained a strong interest in large scale fluid dynamics problems since its establishment some ten years ago. Typically, these problems have a spatial extent which changes by several orders of magnitude between the initial conditions and the solution of interest. Time variations of orders of magnitude are also possible. In any case the large scale fluid dynamics problems solved by AFWL may be defined as those in which the smallest lineal resolution desired is less than one percent of the total dimension of interest. A large number of problems fit into this category in two and three dimensions. The AFWL has developed a system of solution for such problems which is easy to use, adaptable to many different problems and computers, and, most importantly, extremely accurate. This system is represented by the HULL code. The basic part of the code is a second order accurate, multi-dimensional Eulerian hydrodynamic code. The differencing method was developed by Capt D. Matuska at AFWL and is itself unique.
Statistical and Evolutionary Techniques for Efficient Electrical Design Space Exploration

With the increasing complexity of today's high speed electrical interfaces, electrical analysis of these interfaces is becoming exponentially complicated. Careful choice of channel design parameters for electrical modeling and analysis is becoming critical. Often, the electrical design space is too large for a full factorial analysis. Complex interfaces with large design spaces also make traditional techniques like Monte Carlo methods very time-consuming. Although faster statistical sampling methods such as Design of Experiments (DOE) can be very efficient, these methods are efficient only for linear or weakly non-linear design spaces. This paper compares DOE techniques with evolutionary algorithms for electrical design space exploration. Genetic Algorithms and Swarm Intelligence are discussed as evolutionary algorithms in this paper. The proposed approaches can be applied for high speed multi-drop interfaces like DDR2 and DDR3 and serial point-point interfaces like PCIe and Gigabit Ethernet. In this paper, serial and multi-drop test cases were analyzed to compare the performance of DOE and evolutionary techniques.
A case study of faculty attitudes toward library instruction: The Citadel experience

In this emerging computer‐information age, library instruction goes far beyond research familiarity with books. With the advent of both library OPAC (online public access catalogs) and end‐user searching of online and CD‐ROM (compact disk read only memory) databases, the need for improved instruction in library use approaches a new plateau. These new technologies are forcing libraries, as well as their patrons, to move from traditional information handling to a total information support system.
Surgical Management of Critical Limb Ischemia

At the present time, infrainguinal bypass using autogenous vein is the most effective and durable treatment for chronic limb ischemia caused by long-segment, diffuse, atherosclerotic occlusive disease. Quality of the vein conduit is the most important factor that determines operative success. Preoperative vein mapping is useful to identify an optimal vein conduit as well as to suggest vein segments that should not be explored due to occlusion, significant calcification, poor caliber, or sclerosis. Reversed, nonreversed, and in situ vein bypass grafts all perform equally well, and the choice of technique depends on anatomic considerations and surgeon preference. Bypass grafts originating from inflow sources distal to the common femoral artery may be appropriate in selected cases without compromising graft patency. All vein graft patients should be followed by postoperative, duplex-based graft surveillance. Antiplatelet therapy is indicated in all infrainguinal bypass patients; oral anticoagulation may be worthwhile in selected, high-risk patients, but hemorrhagic risks are significantly increased.
“Group Rights” and Racial Affirmative Action

This article argues against the view that affirmative action is wrong because it involves assigning group rights. First, affirmative action does not have to proceed by assigning rights at all. Second, there are, in fact, legitimate “group rights” both legal and moral; there are collective rights—which are exercised by groups—and membership rights—which are rights people have in virtue of group membership. Third, there are continuing harms that people suffer as blacks and claims to remediation for these harms can fairly treat the (social) property of being black as tracking the victims of those harms. Affirmative action motivated in this way aims to respond to individual wrongs; wrongs that individuals suffer, as it happens, in virtue of their membership in groups. Finally, the main right we have when we are being considered for jobs and places at colleges is that we be treated according to procedures that are morally defensible. Morally acceptable procedures sometimes take account of the fact that a person is a member of a certain social group.
Evaluation of a Handwashing Intervention to Reduce Respiratory Illness Rates in Senior Day-Care Centers

To decrease respiratory infections in senior day care, staff were educated on viral transmission and the value of hand washing. Fanny packs with alcohol foam supplemented hand washing and were alternated monthly between centers. Infection rates were unchanged with alcohol foam use. The intervention year's infection rate was significantly lower than the previous 3 years, suggesting a benefit of education.
Emerging therapeutic targets in tuberculosis: post-genomic era.

Every minute, somewhere in the world four people die from tuberculosis (TB), yet it has been nearly 40 years since a novel drug was introduced to treat this disease. The ever increasing number of TB cases together with the advent of multi-drug resistant (MDR) TB, has stimulated the search for novel anti-TB agents. An array of novel drug targets is provided by the mycobacterial cell wall, whose integrity is essential for bacterial viability. Over the years researchers have identified potential drug targets that are associated with the synthesis of various cell wall constituents. This classic approach, together with the unravelling of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis genome sequence, has placed TB drug research in an unprecedented position. An entire new set of genetic and bioinformatic tools for probing potential drug targets is now available. As therapies using first-line drugs like isoniazid (INH) or rifampin in combination with second-line drugs, like ethambutol (EMB) still continues, a number of substitu...
The influence of retail store environment on brand-related judgments

Abstract Theories of schematic, or representational, thinking posit that schema congruity and incongruity direct people's evaluative, inferential, and action processes. However, to date research has not provided a test of schema (in)congruity theory for important environmental cues, such as the effect of retail store environment on brand judgments. Within the framework of schema (in)congruity, this paper tests the effects of retail store environment on brand judgments. Empirical evidence in support of the congruity theory, theoretical implications of the findings, and directions for future research are provided.
The influence of intelligence on coping style selection

The initial purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the role of intelligence in the selection of a cognitive coping strategy by undergraduate college students in test situations (N = 50). The primary hypothesis of this investigation was confirmed. Intelligence was found to be related significantly to the selection of a predominant coping strategy. Although this finding is interesting and important to the understanding of test anxiety, the second unpredicted finding, that identification of patterns of coping styles rather than one predominant style may be a more useful technique, is the primary contribution of this study. The results of this investigation contribute to the further understanding of coping in testing situations.
Importance of Raw Material Attributes for Modeling Ribbon and Granule Properties in Roller Compaction: Multivariate Analysis on Roll Gap and NIR Spectral Slope as Process Critical Control Parameters

This work is an extension of the earlier work from this laboratory aimed at identifying raw material properties critical to the modeling of granule and ribbon properties as part of the optimization of roller (RC) compaction processes. The utility of roll gap (RG) and near-infrared (NIR) signal, specifically, the spectral slope, as process critical control parameters (PCCPs) was also evaluated. Raw material tabletability, particle size, size distribution span, and tapped density were found to be most important factors for building robust predictive models. RG and NIR spectral slope in combination with RC operating parameters yielded models with good predictability for RC responses. Our results support the suitability of RG and NIR spectral slope as PCCPs in roller compaction, specifically, through ribbon density monitoring.
California Dreaming: The New Dynamism in Immigration Federalism and Opportunities for Inclusion on a Variegated Landscape

Interactions between local, state and federal governments as regards immigration policies began to undergo a dramatic change with the passage of Proposition 187 in California in 1994. Seemingly set...
Characterization of mRNA and genes for aldose reductase in rat

Summary Aldose reductase (AR; E.C. 1. 1. 1. 21) has been implicated in a variety of diabetic complications. To investigate the expression of this enzyme in target tissues susceptible to such complications, mRNA encoding AR was characterized by Northern blot hybridization in various tissues and cultured cell preparations. The size of mRNA for AR (∼1500 bases) was in good agreement with the size determined by sequence analysis. A cDNA probe for AR from rat lens hybridized to the same size species of RNA isolated from cultured dog lens epithelial cells, cultured human retinal capillary pericytes (mural cells), and Y 79 human retinoblastoma cells. In rat tissues, a substantial amount of mRNA was expressed not only in lens, but also in retina, sciatic nerve and kidney medulla. AR mRNA seemed to be less abundant in rat skeletal muscle and brain, and was scarcely present in liver. Furthermore, Southern blot analysis of rat genomic DNA indicated that there are multiple sequences related to that for AR, probably indicating the existence of a multi-gene family.
Extended π-networks with multiple spin-pairing phases: resonance-theory calculations on poly-polyphenanthrenes

The poly-polyphenanthrene family of extended π-network strips with members ranging from polyacetylene to graphite is considered in terms of the locally correlated valence-bond or Heisenberg Hamiltonian. Resonance theory wavefunctions which provide a variational upper bound to the ground state energy are developed in a graph-theoretic formalism extendable to more general localized wavefunction cluster expansions. The graph-theoretic formalism facilitates the use of general transfer matrix techniques, which are especially powerful in application to quasi-one-dimensional systems such as are illustratively treated here. It is argued that these strips exhibit states of different long-range spin-pairing orderings. Novel properties associated with these different resulting phases are briefly indicated, including the possibilities of solitonic excitations and the reactivity at the ends of the strips. The qualitative arguments are supported by numerical calculations for strips up to width 8.
X-ray luminescence optical tomography imaging: experimental studies

We present a hybrid imaging modality, x-ray luminescence optical tomography (XLOT), in which collimated x-ray beams are used to excite phosphor-based contrast agents. Images are reconstructed from the optical signals, using the known x-ray beam location and spatial extent as priors. We demonstrate XLOT using phantom experiments with deep targets and show that the reconstructed signal varies by <12% when the depth changes from 4.2 to 7.7 mm. For simple source distributions, we find as few as two orthogonal projection measurements are sufficient for XLOT reconstruction.
Lessons (Not) Learned: A New Look at Bureaucratic Politics and U.S. Foreign Policy-Making in the Post-Soviet Space

The officials who make and implement U.S. foreign policy, whether political appointees or career employees subject to frequent reassignment, have a short time horizon that gives little value to foreign policy learning. Incentives for more productive exchanges between practitioners and scholars in academic centers and think tanks would benefit both.
Rates of Milk Flow and Milking Times Resulting from Selection for Milk Yield

Abstract Responses to selection for milk yield for rates of milk flow and times for milking were studied using data from an experimental herd of Holsteins. In 1964, foundation cows were paired by sire and randomly split into two genetic groups, selection and control. Four highest bulls for Predicted Difference milk were mates for selection cows each year and replaced annually. Twenty bulls near breed average for milk in 1964 were mated continuously to control cows. Beginning in 1972, milk yield at 15-s intervals was recorded by using a stopwatch and milk meter. Lactations for 130 selection and 162 control cows were observed over 10 yr. Selection cows did not differ from controls during first lactation for rate of milk flow but took longer to milk until stripping. When adjustment was made for milk yield at the observed milking, pedigree groups did not differ for milking time until stripping. Data from all cows suggested that rates of milk flow were also greater for selection cows. First parity heritabilities were .46 (peak rate), and .68 (milking time until stripping). Genetic and phenotypic correlations of milk yield with rates of flow and milking times were positive.