cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High Temperature Low-Cycle Fatigue and Creep-Fatigue Behavior of Fe-25Ni-20Cr Austenitic Stainless Steel

Preliminary investigation on mechanical properties of a Nb-strengthened and nitrogen-stabilized Fe-25wt.%Ni-20Cr (Alloy 709) advanced austenitic stainless steel suggests that it might be a potential candidate for Sodium-Cooled Fast Reactor (SFR), which has higher technology readiness level for deployment. However, the creep-fatigue deformation behaviour is unknown for this alloy. To understand high temperature creep-fatigue interaction of the Alloy 709, strain-controlled low-cycle fatigue (LCF) tests were performed at strain amplitudes ranging from 0.15% to 0.6% with fully reversible cycle of triangular waveform at 750 °C in air following ASTM standard E2714–13. In addition, different hold times of 1, 10, 30 and 60 min were introduced at the maximum tensile strain to investigate the effect of the creep damage on the fatigue-life at strain amplitude of 0.5% at 750 °C. During continuous cyclic loading, fatigue life is found to decrease with increase in strain amplitude. The creep-fatigue life and the number of cycles to crack initiation are found to decrease with increasing hold time indicating the rapid initiation and propagation of cracks. The fractographs of the samples deformed at 0.5% strain amplitude indicated that fatigue might have been the dominant mode of deformation whereas, for the sample deformed at the same strain amplitude with different hold times, both fatigue and creep have contributed to the overall deformation of the alloy. Further studies are underway to carry out creep-fatigue tests at different hold times, strain ranges, and temperatures as well as microstructural characterization of the samples following deformation.
The Prevalence and Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in Male Solid Organ Transplant Recipients

Abstract Introduction Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent and under-recognized complaint among male solid organ transplant recipients. Most research on this topic has focused on kidney transplant recipients alone. In this review, we integrate current research on ED across all types of solid organ transplant recipients and assess the success of current methods of ED treatment in transplant populations. Aim To review the current literature addressing the prevalence and treatment of ED in the male solid organ transplant population. Methods A literature search was conducted using PubMed to identify relevant studies. Search terms included “organ transplant” and “erectile dysfunction.” Titles and abstracts were reviewed for relevance. References from identified articles were also searched and included, if appropriate. Main Outcome Measures Review of peer-reviewed literature. Results The prevalence of ED among transplant recipients is higher than that in the general population: 39.8–86.2% in liver transplant recipients, 54–66% in renal transplant recipients, 71–78% in heart transplant recipients, and 79% in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant recipients. Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors have up to 80% efficacy in treating ED in kidney transplant recipients. Intracavernosal injections have been used with success rates of 60–70% in cardiac and renal transplant recipients. Penile prostheses have also been shown to be safe and effective across transplant types. A low incidence of infection has been reported in several case series, although there is concern for an increased rate of mechanical complications in pelvic organ transplant recipients. Accordingly, placement of a two-piece or malleable prosthesis or ectopic reservoir placement with a three-piece inflatable prosthesis is suggested in this population. Conclusion ED is highly prevalent among male solid organ transplant recipients and should be routinely screened in this population. Current modalities of ED treatment used in the general population are safe and effective in solid organ transplant recipients, although success rates are often lower than those in the general population. Payne K, Popat S, Lipshultz LI, et al. The Prevalence and Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in Male Solid Organ Transplant Recipients. Sex Med Rev 2019;XX:XXX–XXX.
The Influence of Airway Closure Technique for Right Pneumonectomy on Wall Tension During Positive Pressure Ventilation: An Experimental Study.

Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) remains a significant source of morbidity and mortality after right pneumonectomy (RPN). Postoperative mechanical ventilation represents a primary risk factor for BPF. We undertook an experiment to determine the influence of airway diameter on suture line tension during mechanical ventilation after RPN. RPN was performed in 6 fresh human adult cadavers. After initial standard bronchial stump closure (BSC), the airway suture lines were subjected to 5 cm H2O incremental increases in airway pressures beginning at 5–40 cm H2O. To minimize airway diameter, a carinal resection was then performed with trachea to left main bronchial anastomosis and the airway suture lines subjected to similar incremental airway pressures. Wall tension (N/m) at the suture lines was measured using piezoresistive sensors at each pressure point. As delivered airway pressure increased, there was a concomitant increase in wall tension after BSC and carinal resection. At every point of incremental positive pressure, wall tension was however significantly lower after carinal resection when compared to BSC (P
Age- and risk factor-based serologic screening for Hepatitis C virus among an Urban, high-risk population.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening among individuals born between 1945 and 1965 (ie birth cohort) may augment risk factor-based screening. We assessed HCV seropositivity among injection drug users (IDUs) and birth cohort members from New York City. We assessed HCV risk factors and seropositivity in 7722 participants from community health, HIV prevention, syringe exchange and drug treatment programmes. A total of 26.6% were HCV seropositive, 55.8% were born between 1945 and 1965, and 82.2% had ever injected drugs. Among all participants, HCV seropositivity was higher among IDUs compared to non-IDUs (60.5% versus 7.7%, odds ratio (OR) = 18.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) [16.2, 21.1], P < .0001) and among birth cohort members compared to non-birth cohort members (31.3% versus 22.3%, OR = 1.6, 95%CI [1.4, 1.8], P < .0001). Within the birth cohort, HCV seroprevalence among IDUs was 68.5% versus 11.8%, OR = 16.2, 95%CI [13.7, 19.3]. After adjustment, HCV seroprevalence was higher in IDUs, previously incarcerated, whites (<42 years) and 'other races' (versus blacks), HIV-infected, those who snorted heroin, those with liver disease history, and those who had sex with an HCV-seropositive partner. HCV seroprevalence among IDU, birth cohort members, was considerably higher than among the general population. In this high-risk, urban population, the association between IDU and HCV seropositivity was approximately ten times that between birth cohort membership and HCV seropositivity.
Food Insecurity, the Home Food Environment, and Parent Feeding Practices in the Era of COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to describe changes in families' home food environment and parent feeding practices, from before to during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and examine whether changes differed by food security status. METHODS: Parents (N = 584) in the US completed a single online survey, reporting on food security, home food availability, and feeding practices both retrospectively (considering before COVID-19) and currently (during COVID-19). χ2 and univariate regressions examined associations by food security status. RESULTS: The percent of families reporting very low food security increased by 20% from before to during COVID-19 (P < 0.01). About one-third of families increased the amount of high-calorie snack foods, desserts/sweets, and fresh foods in their home; 47% increased nonperishable processed foods. Concern about child overweight increased during COVID-19, with a greater increase for food-insecure versus food-secure parents (P < 0.01). Use of restriction, pressure to eat, and monitoring increased, with a greater increase in pressure to eat for parents with food insecurity compared with food-secure parents (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: During COVID-19, increases in very low food security and changes in the home food environment and parent feeding practices were observed. Results highlight the need to address negative impacts of COVID-19 on children's obesity risk, particularly among those facing health disparities.
K α Satellite Lines

With a two-crystal vacuum spectrometer, ionization curves of the $K{\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{3, 4}$ group of x-ray satellite lines have been recorded for elements S(16) to Ge(32). In the $K{\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{3, 4}$ satellite group are found five component lines for $16\ensuremath{\le}Z\ensuremath{\le}28$ and four components for $29\ensuremath{\le}Z\ensuremath{\le}32$. The wave-length position, relative intensity, and line width at half-maximum intensity of each satellite component has been measured. The widths and shapes of the $K{\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{1, 2}$ lines were determined and a brief discussion of these data is given.
Satellite subgenomic particles are key regulators of adeno-associated virus life cycle

Abstract Historically, AAV defective interfering particles (DI) were known as abnormal virions arising from natural replication and encapsidation errors. Through single virion genome analysis, we revealed that a major category of DI particles contains a double stranded DNA genome in a “snapback” configuration (SBG). The 5’-SBGs include the P5 promoters and partial rep gene sequences. The 3’-SBGs contains the capsid region. The molecular configuration of 5’-SBGs allowed double stranded RNA transcription in their dimer configuration, which in turn regulate AAV rep expression and may improve AAV packaging. In contrast, 3’-SBGs at its dimer configuration increased levels of cap protein. The generation and accumulation of 5’-SBGs and 3’-SBGs appears to be coordinated to balance the viral gene expression level. Therefore, the functions of 5’-SBGs and 3’-SBGs may help maximize the yield of AAV progenies. We postulate that AAV virus population behaved as a colony and utilizes its subgenomic particles to overcome the size limit of viral genome and encodes additional essential functions.
Defined matrices bring IBD to 3D.

An immune cell population enriched in inflamed gut tissue is shown to play a role in driving CD44+ intestinal organoid proliferation, while also regulating extracellular matrix deposition and remodelling in a synthetic hydrogel platform.
Improved Survival of Pediatric Heart Transplant Recipients with Donor Thyroxine Management: Is it Age-Dependent?

Purpose Studies on the efficacy of pre-recovery donor thyroxine (T4) treatment for adult heart transplant recipients report inconsistent results. Guidelines for T4 therapy in donors designated for pediatric heart transplantation (PHT) remain undefined. This study investigates the age-dependent impact of donor T4 therapy on the survival of PHT recipients. Methods The UNOS Registry was queried for PHT recipients ( Results A total of 7,999 PHT recipients were identified. 51.5% received a T4-treated donor heart. Median age of patients receiving a T4-treated heart (5 yrs) was significantly higher than those transplanted with non-treated hearts (3 yrs; p Conclusion Survival benefit of donor T4 treatment in PHT depends mainly on recipient age, demonstrating a nonlinear relationship according to donor age. Better survival is seen in infants transplanted with T4-treated hearts. Future clinical trials are warranted to confirm indications for T4 therapy.
BEYOND NATIONHOOD: HAUL MUSIC FROM A POSTCOLONIAL PERSPECTIVE IN WESTERN SAHARA AND MAURITANIA

This article examines the mobility of a precolonial musical style known as Haul music in two African countries, Western Sahara and Mauritania. Haul music is based on a modal system in which music and poetry are intrinsically related. This article traces the historical and musicological aspects of the Haul modal system in Western Sahara and Mauritania by offering an insight into how the postcolonial period has determined two narratives of Haul: a historical nationalism by way of revitalising the precolonial past in Mauritania; and political nationalism when reconsidering the ongoing process of decolonisation in Western Sahara and the exile of its people to the refugee camps of the Hamada desert since 1975. Further, this article shows how the mobility of the Haul modal system provides a reconsideration of a precolonial past in existing music cultures in North Africa.
Ultrasound-assisted catheter directed thrombolysis for pulmonary embolus during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Background Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third most common cause of cardiovascular death. For patients who are hemodynamically unstable, veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) support has been shown to provide hemodynamic stability, and allow time for definitive treatment and recovery. Ultrasound-assisted catheter directed thrombolysis (USAT) has the potential to be a safe adjunct and expedite right ventricular (RV) recovery for patients requiring VA-ECMO for PE. Methods A review of all VA-ECMO patients from January 2017 to September 2019 was performed. A total of 49 of these patients were cannulated due to a PE. USAT therapy was used as an adjunct in 6 (12%) of these patients. These 6 patients were given standardized USAT therapy with EKOs catheters at 1 mg/h of tissue plasminogen activator with an unfractionated heparin infusion for additional systemic anticoagulation. Outcomes, including in-hospital death, 90-day survival, RV recovery, and complications, were examined in the cohort of patients that received USAT as an adjunct to ECMO. Results Median age was 54 years old. Five of the six patients presented with a massive PE and had a PE severity score of Class V. One patient presented with a submassive PE with a Bova score of 2, but was cannulated to VA-ECMO in the setting of worsening RV function. All patients demonstrated recovery of RV function, were free from in-hospital death, and were alive at 90-day follow-up. Conclusion Ekosonic endovascular system therapy may be a safe and feasible adjunct for patients on VA-ECMO for PE, and allow for survival with RV recovery with minimal complications.
How Transgender and Non-Binary People are Ignored in the Male-Only Military Draft Debate

The constitutionality of an all-male military draft is currently being litigated in National Coalition for Men v. Selective Service System. Unfortunately, the effect this issue will have on transgender and non-binary people is largely being ignored. This essay considers how current Selective Service standards are not only psychologically harmful to transgender and non-binary people but also how they negatively affect their ability to receive college financial aid, federal jobs, and job training.
Beyond Average: Providers' Assessments of Indices for Measuring Pain Intensity in Patients With Chronic Pain

Introduction. Effective clinical care for chronic pain requires accurate, comprehensive, meaningful pain assessment. This study investigated healthcare providers’ perspectives on seven pain measurement indices for capturing pain intensity. Methods. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample from four US regions of 20 healthcare providers who treat patients with chronic pain. The qualitative interview guide included open-ended questions to address perspectives on pain measurement, and included quantitative ratings of the importance of seven indices [average pain, worst pain, least pain, time in no/low pain, time in high pain, fluctuating pain, unpredictable pain]. Qualitative interview data were read, coded and analyzed for themes and final interpretation. Standard quantitative methods were used to analyze index importance ratings. Results. Despite concerns regarding 10-point visual analog and numeric rating scales, almost all providers used them. Providers most commonly asked about average pain, although they expressed misgivings about patient reporting and the index’s informational value. Some supplemented average with worst and least pain, and most believed pain intensity is best understood within the context of patient functioning. Worst pain received the highest mean importance rating (7.60), average pain the second lowest rating (5.65) and unpredictable pain the lowest rating (5.20). Discussion. Assessing average pain intensity obviates obtaining clinical insight into daily contextual factors relating to pain and functioning. Pain index use, together with timing, functionality and disability, may be most effective for understanding the meaning to patients of high pain, how pain affects their life, how life affects their pain, and how pain changes and responds to treatment.
Chapter 52 Population Policies, Fertility, Women's Human Capital, and Child Quality

Abstract Population policies are defined here as voluntary programs which help people control their fertility and expect to improve their lives. There are few studies of the long-run effects of policy-induced changes in fertility on the welfare of women, such as policies that subsidize the diffusion and use of best practice birth control technologies. Evaluation of the consequences of such family planning programs almost never assess their long-run consequences, such as on labor supply, savings, or investment in the human capital of children, although they occasionally estimate the short-run association with the adoption of contraception or age-specific fertility. The dearth of long-run family planning experiments has led economists to consider instrumental variables as a substitute for policy interventions which not only determine variation in fertility but are arguably independent of the reproductive preferences of parents or unobserved constraints that might influence family life cycle behaviors. Using these instrumental variables to estimate the effect of this exogenous variation in fertility on family outcomes, economists discover these “cross effects” of fertility on family welfare outcomes tend to be substantially smaller in absolute magnitude than the OLS estimates of partial correlations referred to in the literature as evidence of the beneficial social externalities associated with the policies that reduce fertility. The paper summarizes critically the empirical literature on fertility and development and proposes an agenda for research on the topic.
Biogeochemical characteristics of settling particulate organic matter in Lake Superior: A seasonal comparison

To assess settling particulate organic matter (POM) seasonality and its availability to the benthic community, settling particulate matter was studied in terms of mass fluxes and main biogeochemical characteristics (including organic carbon (OC), nitrogen, and stable carbon and nitrogen isotopic values) at two Lake Superior offshore sites over the course of a year. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and hydrolysis, extraction, and derivatization were used to provide further compositional information. Carbon and nitrogen content, isotopic and wet chemical data, and FTIR spectra show that summer particulate material is mainly autochthonous, with higher proportions of amide and carbohydrate. FTIR shows that spring particulate material contains relatively high proportions of clay minerals, indicating major sources from sediment resuspension and/or spring runoff. Distinct amino acid distributions at the two sites, revealed by principal component analysis (PCA) based on amino acid mol% composition, possibly result from differences in OM sources and the degree of degradation occurring at the two sites. Carbohydrate (PCHO), total hydrolyzable amino acid (THAA) and FTIR data suggest that the nutritional value of bulk POM to benthic heterotrophs should be lower in spring than summer-fall, although both periods exhibited high sinking fluxes of total mass and OC. Due to sediment resuspension events and an oxic water column, organic matter eventually buried in Lake Superior’s sediments has probably experienced extensive alteration due to several cycles through the water column and the bacterially-active sediment-water interface.
Direct integration of single-walled carbon nanotubes with silicon

We have used ultrahigh vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy (UHV STM) to study single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) supported by a hydrogen-terminated Si(100)-2/spl times/1 surface. Two distinct methods were used in the deposition of SWNTs. The first is an ex situ solution-based scheme, while the second involves direct mechanical transfer in situ. The UHV-prepared Si(100)-2/spl times/1:H surface is highly robust to ambient exposure, resulting in minimal surface degradation associated with ex situ chemical processing. We have achieved simultaneous atomic resolution STM images of SWNTs and the nearby silicon substrate. Local electronic characterization was performed using scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS). I-V spectra depict a shift in the Fermi energy of semiconducting SWNTs towards the valence band edge, consistent with charge transfer between the nanotube and the silicon substrate. A metallic SWNT shows an approximately linear I-V response at low bias, while the surrounding Si(100)-2/spl times/1:H substrate shows a /spl sim/1.3 eV gap. An advanced understanding of the fundamental physical and electronic interactions between carbon nanotubes and silicon will further the development of hybrid nanoscale devices and circuits.
Piezoelectric Impedance Methods for Damage Detection and Sensor Validation

This article presents an overview and recent applications in impedance-based structural health monitoring (SHM). The basic principle behind this technique is to apply high-frequency structural excitations (typically greater than 30 kHz) through surface-bonded piezoelectric transducers, and measure the local mechanical impedance by monitoring the current and voltage applied to the piezoelectric transducers. Changes in impedance indicate changes in the structure, which in turn can indicate that damage has occurred. Previous experimental studies are summarized to demonstrate how this technique can be efficiently used to detect structural damage in real time. The impedance method also has applications in the field of sensor self-diagnostics and validation in determining the operational status of piezoelectric active sensors used in SHM. The feasibility of this sensor validation procedure is demonstrated by analytical studies and experimental examples, where the functionality of surface-mounted piezoelectric sensors was continuously deteriorated. Keywords: damage detection; piezoelectric transducers; sensor validation; impedance method
Physics education research: Resources for graduate student instructors

This resource letter intends to provide physics instructors - particularly graduate student teaching assistants - at the introductory university level with a small but representative collection of resources to acquire a familiarity with research in physics education for guidance in everyday instruction. The resources are in the form of books, articles, websites, journals, and organizations.
Caries management by risk assessment (CAMBRA) and its effect on the surface roughness of various restorative materials.

Abstract Statement of problem Whether topical anticaries medicaments used in the oral environment will affect the surface integrity of restorative materials is uncertain. Purpose The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the effect of various anticaries agents on the surface roughness of 3 different restorative materials. Material and methods Sixty-four specimens of each restorative material (feldspathic porcelain, Ni-Cr metal ceramic alloy, and Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy) were prepared and separated into 4 equal groups for soaking in anticaries agents (Prevident Dental Rinse, ACT mouth wash, chlorhexidine gluconate, and water). A profilometer was used to measure surface roughness before and after soaking the materials for 2 years of simulated usage. The mean change in surface roughness for each specimen was calculated. Statistical analysis was performed with a 2-way ANOVA, followed by the Tukey HSD test (α=.05). Results A significant interaction was found between the materials and anticaries agents (F=2.64, P =.02). The significant interaction was between Prevident and chlorhexidine gluconate. Porcelain specimens soaked in Prevident produced a negative change (−0.072 ±0.35 μm) in surface roughness (smoother surface), while chlorhexidine gluconate produced a positive change (0.094 ±0.42 μm) in surface roughness (rougher surface). Conclusion Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it can be concluded that Prevident Dental Rinse and chlorhexidine gluconate may cause a change in the surface roughness of feldspathic porcelain.
IL-13 receptor-targeted cytotoxin cancer therapy leads to complete eradication of tumors with the aid of phagocytic cells in nude mice model of human cancer.

Tumor-directed therapeutic approaches require unique or overexpressed specific Ag or receptor as a target to achieve selective tumor killing. However, heterogeneous expression of these targets on tumor cells limits the efficacy of this form of therapy. In this study, we forced abundant expression of IL-13Rα2 chain by plasmid-mediated gene transfer in head and neck, as well as prostate tumors to provide a potential target. This was followed by successfully treating xenograft tumor-bearing nude mice with IL-13R-directed cytotoxin (IL13-PE38QQR). Although we did not observe an indirect cytotoxic bystander effect conveyed to nontransduced tumor cells in vitro, our approach in vivo led to a complete regression of established tumors transfected with IL-13Rα2 chain in most animals. We found that the tumor eradication was achieved in part by infiltration of macrophages and NK cells, assessed by immunohistochemistry. Moreover, head and neck tumors xenografted in macrophage-depleted nude mice were less sensitive to the antitumor effect of IL-13 cytotoxin. Because we did not observe vector-related toxicity in any vital organs, our novel combination strategy of gene transfer of IL-13Rα2 chain and receptor-directed cytotoxin therapy may be a useful approach for the treatment of localized cancer.
Immunohistochemical Localization of Alpha-2 Macroglobulin Receptor/Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein, Receptor-Associated Protein, and Gp330 in the Human Endometrium

We investigated the expression of alpha-2 macroglobulin receptor/low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP), an analogous receptor Gp330, and the 39-kd receptor-associated protein (RAP) in the human endometrium. Specific polyclonal and monoclconal antibodies against LRP, Gp330, and RAP were used in standard immunohistochemical analyses of normal secretory and proliferative archival endometrial tissue. There was prominent and uniform stromal staining for LRP in secretary and proliferative endometrium. In both phases, 10–25% of glands stained positive for Gp330, with no appreciable stromal staining for Gp330. Also in both phases, 15–30% of glands stained positive for RAP, with apical staining in proliferative glands and uniform staining in secretory glands. Stromal staining for RAP was patchy and appeared to be more intense in the secretory samples than in the proliferative ones. The human endometrium expresses LRP, RAP, and Gp330. These receptor proteins are known to be involved in endocytosis of multiple ligands. Some of these ligands, such as proteases, plasminogene activators, and cytokines, are produced by the endometrium and play a role in endometrial remodeling and receptivity to implantation. By virtue of their in vitro properties, it is conceivable that endometrial LRP, Gp330, and RAP are involved in endometrial physiology.
Clear sky radiance distributions in ultraviolet wavelength bands

In the ultraviolet, the diffuse sky radiation component is often at least 50% of the global irradiance for middle latitudes. Thus, knowledge of the sky radiance distribution is important for modeling ultraviolet irradiance in vegetative or urban canopies. In this study, the distribution of clear sky radiance was measured and modeled for wavelength bands of ultraviolet-B (280–320 nm) and ultraviolet-A (320–400 nm). Sky radiance measurements were made in a rural area over a wide range of solar zenith angles using radiance sensors mounted on a hand-operated hemispherical rotation mount. The measured sky radiance distribution in the UVA waveband differed greatly from that in the UVB waveband. The sky UVB radiance varied less across the sky hemisphere than the sky UVA radiance, in accordance with theory. A distinct region of minimum sky radiance was commonly found in the UVA waveband, but not the UVB waveband.
Evaluation of a computer-assisted monitoring (CAMO) project: Some measurement issues

This article investigates the effect of Computer Assisted Monitoring of Offenders (CAMO) on probation outcome. In a comparison sample, the effect of CAMO treatment is compared to the effect of “regular” probation. In addition to testing the effects of CAMO as an intermediate treatment, methodological issues, such as level of probation restrictiveness and the effects of prior criminal involvement on probation outcome, are tested. Although the results are mixed, they indicate that level of probation restrictiveness and prior criminal involvement have a greater effect on probation outcome than does CAMO. These findings have ramifications for researchers comparing CAMO probationers to “regular” probationers and for those comparing different CAMO programs.
Editorial Commentary Witchcraft Science in the Cinema of Epidemics

Films about infectious disease epidemics regularly pretend to present science at work but ironically traffic in its near opposite—a kind of “witchcraft science.” Although Hollywood can hardly be ex...
The development of a scientific specialty as diffusion through social relations: the case of role analysis

Abstract This research considers whether the development of a scientific specialty can be understood as a diffusion process in which social relations and mass media are alternative sources of information and influence. The kinds of modifying adoptions of innovations observed during the development of a scientific specialty are compared with the straightforward adoptions that occur during ordinary diffusion processes. The developments of two innovations in role analysis, a specialty of social network analysis, are examined as a case study. It is shown that these adoptions are, in some ways, similar to the straightforward adoptions occurring in ordinary diffusion. Specifically, social relations were sources of information and influence, and qualities of the innovations affected the rates of adoption. Differences between the development of role analysis and ordinary diffusion processes also are illustrated. The availability of mass media sources of information and influence depends on the number of adopters during the development of a scientific specialty, but not during ordinary diffusion processes. This difference has further implications for the effect of qualities of the innovation on the development of scientific specialties.
PLM curriculum development: Using an industry-sponsored project to teach manufacturing simulation in a multidisciplinary environment

This paper describes a course that was redesigned to meet industry's need for a product life cycle management (PLM) literate workforce. The objective of this interdisciplinary course is to introduce students to manufacturing engineering theories coupled with an industry-sponsored project. Throughout the building of an assembly line simulation, students are exposed to topics including process design, process verification, and workspace ergonomics. Moreover, practices of project management along with the theory of critical chain are built into this course. The end goal is to prepare students with not only the knowledge of PLM but also the capability of problem solving, communication, self-motivated teamwork, and leadership.
Signal transduction in the protozoan host Hartmannella vermiformis upon attachment to Legionella pneumophila

Intracellular replication of the Legionnaires' disease bacterium, Legionella pneumophila, within protozoa plays a major role in bacterial ecology and pathogenesis. Invasion of the protozoan host Hartmannella vermiformis by L. pneumophila is mediated by attachment to the Gal/GalNAc lectin receptor, which is similar to the beta(2) integrin transmembrane receptors of mammalian cells. Bacterial invasion is associated with induction of a protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTPase) activity in H. vermiformis that results in tyrosine dephosphorylation of the lectin receptor and several cytoskeletal proteins. In this report, we show that entry of L. pneumophila into H. vermiformis is not required to induce tyrosine dephosphorylation of one of the cytoskeletal proteins, paxillin. Tyrosine dephosphorylation of paxillin is mediated at the level of bacterial attachment to the lectin receptor, and is blocked by inhibiting bacterial attachment to the lectin receptor. Attachment of L. pneumophila to the lectin receptor is not mediated by the type IV pilus, which is one of the bacterial ligands involved in attachment to protozoa. Interestingly, the lectin receptor in resting H. vermiformis is associated with several phosphorylated proteins that are dissociated upon bacterial attachment and invasion. We show that the L. pneumophila-induced PTPase activity in H. vermiformis and the associated tyrosine dephosphorylation of host proteins can be mimicked by the cytoskeletal disrupting agent, cytochalasin D. Taken together, our data indicate that attachment of L. pneumophila to the lectin receptor of H. vermiformis induces a PTPase activity, tyrosine dephosphorylation of the lectin and cytoskeletal proteins, dissociation of the lectin from its associated phosphorylated proteins, and most probably disassembly of the cytoskeleton. This novel L. pneumophila-protozoa interaction may be a bacterial strategy to invade protozoa and to be trafficked into a replicative 'niche', or to block differentiation of the protozoan host into a cyst in which L. pneumophila cannot replicate.
The role of antibody induction in liver transplantation.

PURPOSE Antilymphocyte antibody induction has been used in liver transplantation for decades, initially as part of a triple or quadruple immunosuppressive protocol to prevent rejection or in the treatment of steroid-resistant rejection. More recently there has been renewed interest in antibody induction in liver transplantation as part of a strategy to eliminate or reduce one or more immunosuppressive agents. This review highlights recent advances in the role of antibody induction in liver transplantation. RECENT FINDINGS Primary interest in antibody induction now falls into four major categories: steroid avoidance; calcineurin inhibitor reduction as a renal sparing protocol; minimal immunosuppression protocols (tolerance); and limiting hepatitis C recurrence. These protocols usually involve short courses of antibody induction in the peritransplant period, with decreased reliance on other agents after transplantation. Recent reports demonstrate several beneficial effects of antibody induction and suggest that, in the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease era, antibody induction in immunosuppressive strategies in liver transplantation will become increasingly important. SUMMARY Antibody induction in liver transplantation confers valuable benefit in limiting the adverse effects of maintenance immunosuppression. Antibodies allow the subsequent reduction or elimination of other agents to minimize overall immunosuppression.
Formation of hematopoietic territories and bone by transplanted human bone marrow stromal cells requires a critical cell density.

Objective Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) include multipotent cells with the ability to form mature bone organs upon in vivo transplantation. Hematopoiesis in these bone organs has been ascribed to the action of skeletal stem cells, which are capable of differentiating towards bone and hematopoiesis-supporting stroma. Yet, the creation of hematopoietic territories may be in part a natural consequence of the formation of a sufficiently mature and large bone microenvironment. Here, we describe, for the first time, a relationship between BMSC numbers and the extent of bone/hematopoiesis formation in heterotopic transplants. Methods Human BMSCs were transplanted along with hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate, utilizing a spectrum of dosages, into immunotolerant mice; the transplants were followed for up to 29 months. Results The extent of bone and hematopoiesis formation increased with increasing BMSC numbers; however, the relationship was sigmoid in character, and a threshold number of BMSCs was necessary for extensive bone formation or any hematopoiesis. Hematopoiesis only occurred in conjunction with extensive bone formation, and no hematopoiesis occurred where bone formation was poor. Consistent with our earlier studies of long-term BMSC transplantation, the transplants underwent a change in bone morphology but not bone content after 8 weeks. Conclusion Our results have provided evidence that the formation of both hematopoiesis and a mature bone organ is as much a consequence of a sufficiently high local density of bone marrow stromal cells as it is the product of skeletal stem cell action.
Two 2008 Meetings: the AAAS's Forum on Science and Technology Policy and the ALA's National Library Legislative Day

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report on The AAAS's Forum on Science and Technology Policy, and The ALA's National Library Legislative Day, held in May 2008 in Washington, DC, USA. Design/methodology/report.–.Conference report. Findings – The underlying (single) theme of the two meetings was governmental funding. Each meeting was devoted to advising participants about the present status of budgetary allocations and appropriations of Federal funds for the current or subsequent years.Originality/value – Notes that four issues from the AAAs Forum would be of particular interest: “Cognition enhancement: promise or threat?”; “A skeptical view of advocacy [conducted by] by scientists”; “Ensuring the best presidential science appointments [after the 2008 elections]” and “Science and the new media”.
Evidence that glutathione is the unidentified amine (Unk 2.5) released by high potassium into cochlear fluids

An unidentified substance, Unk 2.5, may be important in the function of the cochlea. The efflux of Unk 2.5 into cochlear fluids is increased by intense sound (Bobbin and Fallon, 1992) and by exposure of the cochlear tissue to high concentrations of K+ (Bobbin et al., 1990, 1991; Bobbin and Fallon, 1992). The unidentified chemical eluted at 2.5 min in chromatograms obtained by HPLC utilizing fluorescence detection and precolumn o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) derivatization of samples of effluent from the cochlea (e.g., Bobbin et al., 1990). The purpose of this investigation was to provide evidence as to the identity of this unidentified chemical we call Unk 2.5. Therefore, we carried out additional HPLC assays on samples obtained during perfusion of the cochlear perilymph compartment. Glutathione (GSH) was found to elute at the same time (@ 2.5 min) as Unk 2.5 in HPLC chromatograms utilizing precolumn derivatization with OPA and mercaptoethanol. In addition, both Unk 2.5 and GSH reacted with OPA without mercaptoethanol present in the reaction mixture to give a peak at 2.5 min in the chromatogram, but failed to show this peak if stored in solutions with a pH > 7 for several days before the reaction. Results indicate that Unk 2.5 is GSH or a closely related compound. Given this probable identification GSH, aka Unk 2.5, has been demonstrated to be released from tissue in the cochlea by high concentrations of K+ (Bobbin et al., 1990, 1991) and by intense sound (124 dB SPL; Bobbin and Fallon, 1992).
Climate and Collapse: Agro-Ecological Perspectives on the Decline of the Tiwanaku State

Abstract After approximately 700 years of growth and colonial expansion, the Tiwanaku state disintegrated as a regional political force in the south-central Andes between c. AD 1000-1100. This paper examines the collapse of the state of Tiwanaku through the lens of its agricultural history. We argue that the proximate cause of Tiwanaku's decline as a politically integrated, expansive state society was the deterioration and ultimate abandonment of its regional-scale agricultural systems, both in its core area in the Andean altiplano and in its economic colonies in the lower-altitude yungas zones. We present evidence that the collapse of Tiwanaku intensive agriculture was triggered by regional change in climatic conditions recorded in highly-resolved palaeoenvironmental data derived from the Quelccaya ice cap of southern Peru and in sediment cores from Lake Titicaca. Our analysis of the Quelccaya data documents a radical climate change in the south-central Andes during the post-AD 1000 era in the form of a statistically significant decrease in mean precipitation level that persisted until c. AD 1400. By defining vulnerability classes for various agricultural technologies used in different regions of the Tiwanaku state, we then relate this palaeoclimatic data to performance of specific core area and colonial Tiwanaku agricultural systems. We demonstrate that chronic drought conditions led to sequential collapse of these distinct agricultural systems: irrigation-based agriculture in Tiwanaku colonies at lower altitude failed first, followed by groundwater-dependent raised-field systems in the altiplano. Agricultural and settlement pattern changes in the post-AD 1000 period are correlated with the palaeoenvironmental data to present an integrated view of the coupling of climate and cultural process. The full implications of the agro-ecological collapse model presented here reach well beyond an explanation for the decline of Tiwanaku alone.
Thermographic imaging of material loss in boiler water-wall tubing by application of scanning line source

Localized wall thinning due to corrosion in utility boiler water-wall tubing is a significant inspection concern for boiler operators. Historically, conventional ultrasonics has been used for inspection of these tubes. This technique has proven to be very manpower and time intensive. This has resulted in a 'spot check' approach to inspections, documenting thickness measurements over a relatively small percentage of the total boiler wall area. NASA Langley Research Center has developed a thermal NDE technique designed to image and quantitatively characterize the amount of material thinning present in steel tubing. The technique involves the movement of a thermal line source across the outer surface of the tubing followed by an infrared imager at a fixed distance behind the line source. Quantitative images of the material loss due to corrosion are reconstructed from measurements of the induced surface temperature variations. This paper will present a discussion of the development of the thermal imaging system as well as the techniques used to reconstruct images of flaws. The application of the thermal line source coupled with the analysis technique represents a significant improvement in the inspection speed for large structures such as boiler water-walls. A theoretical basis for the technique will be presented which explains the quantitative nature of the technique. Further, a dynamic calibration system will be presented for the technique that allows the extraction of thickness information from the temperature data. Additionally, the results of applying this technology to actual water-wall tubing samples and in situ inspections will be presented.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Thermodynamic modeling of the Ca-Li-Na system

Abstract The binary Ca–Na and Li–Na systems were modeled by computational thermodynamics using the Calphad method. Self-consistent thermodynamic parameters of the binary systems were obtained. Combined with the Ca–Li system modeling in the literature, the phase equilibria of the Ca–Li–Na system were calculated. Isothermal and isopleth sections of the ternary system and the projection of the liquidus surface were presented. This ternary system will be included in the study of the impurity effects on processing of aluminum alloys.
Preliminary Analysis of X-Band and Ka-Band Radar for Use in the Detection of Icing Conditions Aloft

ABSTRACT NASA and the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) have an on-going activity to develop remote sensing technologies for the detection and measurement of icing conditions aloft. Radar has been identified as a strong tool for this work. However, since the remote detection of icing conditions with the intent to identify areas of icing hazard is a new and evolving capability, there are no set requirements for radar sensitivity. This work is an initial attempt to quantify, through analysis, the sensitivity requirements for an icing remote sensing radar. The primary radar of interest for cloud measurements is Ka-band, however, since NASA is currently using an X-band unit, this frequency is also examined. Several aspects of radar signal analysis were examined. Cloud reflectivity was calculated for several forms of cloud using two different techniques. The Air Force Geophysical Laboratory (AFGL) cloud models, with different drop spectra represented by a modified gamma distribution, were utilized to examine several categories of cloud formation. Also a fundamental methods approach was used to allow manipulation of the cloud droplet size spectra. And an analytical icing radar simulator was developed to examine the complete radar system response to a configurable multi-layer cloud environment. Also discussed is the NASA vertical pointing X-band radar. The radar and its data system are described, and several summer weather events are reviewed.
Impact modification of poly(butylene terephthalate) by ABS materials

Abstract Poly(butylene terephthalate), PBT, can be impact modified by blending with appropriate ABS materials. The effect of ABS type and processing conditions on the notched Izod impact strength of PBT blends is examined in depth. Of three emulsion-made ABS materials containing 38 to 50% rubber, the one with the highest melt viscosity (50% rubber and a broad rubber particle distribution) proved the least effective for improving the impact strength of PBT when processed at high temperatures (260°C). Blends prepared in twin screw vs a single screw extruder have similar impact behavior. Melt temperatures greater than 240°C used during molding have little effect on the crystalline behaviour of PBT; however, they reduce the effectiveness of some ABS grades for impact modification. Blends moulded at higher temperatures show a coarse phase morphology with large, poorly dispersed ABS domains. PBT/ABS blends can have excellent mechanical properties in the absence of any compatibilizer; however, a compatabilizer would no doubt improve the stability of the morphology of the blends and may lessen their dependence on process conditions.
A Demonstration of Vocational Counseling

Foreword: Even for the experienced counselor, it is usually easier to assess a vocational problem and indicate what should be accomplished than to describe the process of solution. In an effort, therefore, to illustrate the techniques and principles of vocational counseling, the authors have constructed the following composite case, representative of the average problem encountered at a university counseling service. It has purposely been over-simplified in order better to highlight the over-all counseling process and, in the opinion of the writers, the fundamental principles of vocational counseling.—The Authors.