cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interfacial Segregation in Al-Cu-Mg Alloys

The corrosion behavior of Al-Cu-Mg alloys, specifically 2024 alloy (nominally, in weight %, 4.4 Cu, 1.5 Mg, 0.6 Mn), is thought to depend on heterogeneous Cu and Mg distribution through the existence of segregation-dependent local electrochemical cells at the corrosion interface. Few nanospectroscopy measurements of segregation have been made for this or similar alloys. These alloys are precipitation hardenable. The primary precipitating phases are S and the well known Θ(CuAl2) and their metastable intermediates. TEM analysis of aged alloys in this subgroup showed that the orthorhombic S phase (a=4.0A, b=9.25A, c=7.15A) occurred as a thin plate type variant, called S´, within matrix grains and as larger monolithic particles on grain boundaries. Intragranular pricipitate particle densities were heterogeneous particularly near grain boundaries, indicating that strong segregation was present that would result in local electrochemical cells where grain boundaries and large precipitates intersected the alloy surface.HRTEM and nanospectroscopy are used to analyze the structure and chemistry of heterophase interfaces and grain boundaries.
Large signal modeling of millimeter wave gunn diodes for planar circuits

A simple and accurate experimental technique is described to determine the equivalent circuit parameters of millimeter wave (30–100 GHz) GaAs and InP Gunn diodes under large signal conditions for a planar microstrip circuit. The modeling has resulted in the development of microstrip oscillators and VCOs with excellent agreement between measured and calculated performance.
Improving infant sleep safety via electronic health record communication: a randomized controlled trial.

With increased use of telehealth, interventions to improve infant sleep environments have not been explored. This study sought to assess the feasibility and efficacy of using electronic health record patient portals to transmit photographs of infant sleep between mothers and healthcare professionals as part of an intervention to promote sleep environments consistent with AAP guidelines. One hundred eighty-four mother-newborn dyads consented to participate in a randomized trial requiring patient portal registration within 1 month of delivery. We first assessed feasibility as measured by a) the proportion of consented mothers enrolling in the portal and b) maternal adherence to prompts to submit photographs of their infant sleeping to the research team through the patient portal. Intervention group mothers were prompted at 1 and 2 months; controls were prompted only at 2 months. Efficacy was determined via research assistant review of submitted photographs. These assistants were trained to detect sudden unexplained infant death risk factors utilizing AAP guidelines. Standardized feedback was returned to mothers through the patient portal. We used Fisher’s Exact test to assess group differences in guideline adherence at 2 months. One hundred nine mothers (59%) enrolled in the patient portal and were randomized to intervention (N = 55) and control (N = 54) groups. 21 (38, 95% CI 25–52%) intervention group participants sent photographs at 1 month and received personalized feedback. Across both groups at 2 months, 40 (37, 95% CI 28–46%) sent photographs; 56% of intervention group participants who submitted photographs met all safe sleep criteria compared with 46% of controls (difference 0.10, 95% CI − 0.26 to 0.46, p = .75). Common reasons for guideline non-adherence were sleeping in a room without a caregiver (43%), loose bedding (15%) and objects (8%) on the sleep surface. Utilizing the patient portal to individualize safe infant sleep is possible, however, we encountered numerous barriers in this trial to assess its effects on promoting safe infant sleep. Photographs of infants sleeping showed substantial non-adherence to AAP guidelines, suggesting further needs for improvement to promote safe infant sleep practices. Name: Improving Infant Sleep Safety With the Electronic Health Record; Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03662048 ; Date of Registration: September 7, 2018; Data Sharing Statement: None
Long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for late-infantile Krabbe disease.

Abstract Krabbe disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder caused by a deficiency in galactocerebrosidase. The only effective treatment is hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Approximately 85% of Krabbe disease cases are the infantile subtypes, among which ∼20% are late infantile. Prior studies have demonstrated that HSCT is effective for early-infantile patients (0-6 months of age) who undergo transplantation while asymptomatic, compared with those receiving transplants while symptomatic. However, no studies evaluated the efficacy of HSCT for late-infantile patients (6-36 months). In this prospective, longitudinal study, patients were evaluated at a single site according to a standardized protocol. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Differences between groups were estimated using mixed regression models to account for within-person repeated measures. Nineteen late-infantile patients underwent HSCT (March 1997 to January 2020). Compared with untreated patients, transplant recipients had a longer survival probability and improved cognitive and language function. Gross and fine motor development were most affected, with variable results. Asymptomatic patients benefitted the most from transplantation, with normal to near-normal development in all domains and some gross motor delays. Among symptomatic patients, those with disease onset at >12 months of age had better cognitive outcomes than untreated patients. Those with disease onset at ≤12 months were comparable to untreated patients. We found that HSCT prolonged the lifespan and improved the functional abilities of late-infantile patients with Krabbe disease, particularly those who underwent transplantation before onset of symptoms. In addition, our findings support prior literature that reclassifies late-infantile Krabbe disease to be symptom onset at 12 to 36 months of age.
Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design for Minor Collector Streets Incorporating Cement-Treated Base Layers

The objective of this work was to perform project-level studies of selected pavement segments in Springville City to develop new standard pavement designs based on appropriate traffic levels, material properties, and climatic conditions. Mechanistic-empirical (M-E) analyses were then performed to design new standard pavement structures for minor collector streets in Springville City. Because of the engineering, economic, and environmental benefits of re-using existing materials, full-depth reclamation in conjunction with cement stabilization was specifically considered. The results of the M-E analyses indicate that, as the asphalt and CTB layer thicknesses increase, the number of allowable equivalent single axle loads (ESALs) also increases. In addition, as the 7-day unconfined compressive strength (UCS) values increase, the number of allowable ESALs increases. Among the options, a 7-day UCS value of 500 psi may be preferred in many instances to allow the shallowest pavement designs with the least amount of asphalt, which would be expected to be the least expensive. The advanced M-E design process demonstrated in this study has broad application for developing standard pavement designs, especially those incorporating CTB layers, for other street classes and in other regions.
Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) regulates redox homeostasis and signaling events in human articular chondrocytes

The nuclear localized protein deacetylase, SIRT6, has been identified as a crucial regulator of biological processes that drive aging. Among these processes, SIRT6 can promote resistance to oxidative stress conditions, but the precise mechanisms remain unclear. The objectives of this study were to examine the regulation of SIRT6 activity by age and oxidative stress and define the role of SIRT6 in maintaining redox homeostasis in articular chondrocytes. Although SIRT6 levels did not change with age, SIRT6 activity was significantly reduced in chondrocytes isolated from older adults. Using dimedone-based chemical probes that detect oxidized cysteines, we identified that SIRT6 is oxidized in response to oxidative stress conditions, an effect that was associated with reduced SIRT6 activity. Enhancement of SIRT6 activity through adenoviral SIRT6 overexpression specifically increased the basal levels of two antioxidant proteins, peroxiredoxin 1 (Prx1) and sulfiredoxin (Srx) and decreased the levels of an inhibitor of antioxidant activity, thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP). Conversely, in chondrocytes derived from mice with cartilage specific Sirt6 knockout, Sirt6 loss decreased Prx1 levels and increased TXNIP levels. SIRT6 overexpression decreased nuclear-generated H2O2 levels and oxidative stress-induced accumulation of nuclear phosphorylated p65. Our data demonstrate that SIRT6 activity is altered with age and oxidative stress conditions associated with aging. SIRT6 contributes to chondrocyte redox homeostasis by regulating specific members of the Prx catalytic cycle. Targeted therapies aimed at preventing the age-related decline in SIRT6 activity may represent a novel strategy to maintain redox balance in joint tissues and decrease catabolic signaling events implicated in osteoarthritis (OA).
Understanding the Impact of Reviews on Consumer Product Choices under Negotiated Pricing

The objective of the paper is to understand the impact of reviews on product choices when consumers can negotiate a purchase price. Although prior studies have examined this impact in various contexts, none have considered a setting in which the purchase price is negotiated. Leveraging a unique data set of consumer reviews of new car purchases, this research shows a double-edged-sword effect. On the one hand, good reviews can increase choice probability by raising consumer baseline preferences; on the other hand, such reviews may increase the seller’s bargaining power, which may result in higher purchase prices and subsequent lower choice probability. We developed a structural model to reveal the multiple mechanisms in reviews that impact negotiated price and product choices. Ignoring the impact of reviews on the negotiated price leads to a biased estimation of the effectiveness of reviews. We quantified expected consumer savings from access to review features of historical price and discount frequency using counterfactual analyses and arrived at estimated values of $96.92 and $88.92, respectively. Online review platforms could potentially generate measurable economic benefits by monetizing price-related review content.
Effectiveness of Green Warning Lights with Different Flashing Patterns for Winter Maintenance Operations

Snow removal activities are performed by roadway agencies to enhance winter mobility and safety. Slower travel speeds during these operations, combined with low visibility and reduced pavement fric...
Acquisitive Crimes, Time of Day, and Multiunit Housing in the City of Milwaukee

According to "Social Disorganization" theory, criminal activity increases if the societal institutions that might be responsible for maintaining order are weakened. Do large apartment buildings, which often have fairly transient populations and low levels of community involvement, have disproportionately high rates of crime? Do these rates differ during the daytime or nighttime, depending when residents are present, or away from their property? This study examines four types of "acquisitive" crime in Milwaukee during 2014. Overall, nighttime crimes are shown to be more dispersed than daytime crimes. A spatial regression estimation finds that the density of multiunit housing is positively related to all types of crime except burglaries, but not for all times of day. Daytime robberies, in particular, increase as the density of multiunit housing increases.
The Congressional Review Act and Judicial Review

Pending before the Supreme Court of the United States is a certiorari petition in a case entitled Kansas Natural Resources Coalition v. U.S. Department of Interior (KNRC). KNRC involves the issue of whether an agency’s refusal to comply with the requirements imposed on agency rulemaking set forth in a federal statute known as the Congressional Review Act (CRA) is subject to judicial review. By a 2-1 vote, the Tenth Circuit ruled that the CRA forecloses judicial review of an agency’s failure—or refusal—to comply with the requirements of that statute. That issue is of considerable legal, practical, and policy importance—and the Tenth Circuit majority got it wrong. A defendant can raise as a defense in an administrative or civil action, and in a criminal prosecution, the defense that the rule on which the agency relies has not gone “into effect,” as the CRA provides, because the agency did not submit the rule to Congress, for its review. If so, a potential defendant can bring an action under the Administrative Procedure Act to have the agency’s rule held invalid without needing to wait for the “hammer” to fall, as a unanimous U.S. Supreme Court held in Sackett v. EPA. It is impossible to believe that Congress ordered the courts to “see no evil” by an agency, or that it matters whether a private party raises that claim in an answer or a complaint. When read as a whole, the CRA and the APA permit the courts to call out an agency for breaking the law.
Determination of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials-norm (RA-226, RA-228) in synthetic flowback developed at laboratory scale from rocks of the la LUNA-1 well, colombia, and benchmarking with Marcellus and eagle ford shale plays

La decada actual se ha caracterizado por cambios significativos en la energia global, entre los que destacan el desarrollo de nuevos yacimientos de hidrocarburos, incluidos los No Convencionales. En Colombia, la necesidad de exploracion de estos depositos se ha evidenciado por la falta de reservas de convencionales. Uno de los principales problemas identificados en la produccion de estos recursos es la percepcion de efectos negativos directos sobre el medio ambiente, incluido el agua como recurso. Como parte de los esfuerzos encaminados a identificar los efectos potenciales sobre la produccion futura de depositos de roca madre en Colombia, se han realizado experimentos para detectar la presencia o el aumento de elementos radiactivos en el agua de reflujo de los fluidos de fracturacion hidraulica, que es uno de los principales problemas identificados en Actualmente se producen campos en el mundo. Se utilizaron muestras de La Luna-1, el primer pozo estratigrafico de gas / petroleo de esquisto en Colombia. Esta investigacion experimental tuvo como objetivo obtener mediciones de la “Prueba NORM con limites de deteccion inferiores” a partir de un reflujo sintetico de la digestion de muestras de roca y fluidos de fractura (agua resbaladiza) que incluye HCl al 15%. Los resultados muestran bajas concentraciones de NORM de reflujo sintetico; Para contextualizar estos datos se realizo un benchmarking con dos importantes depositos no convencionales, Marcellus y Eagle Ford Shales.
Cross Validation of Tempest-D and Raincube Observations

This paper presents some of the first nearly simultaneous observations between TEMPEST-D and RainCube, two CubeSat missions supported by NASA for on-orbit validation of technology for studying the Earth's atmosphere. This paper presents simultaneous observations by a Ka-band radar and multi-frequency millimeter-wave radiometers over precipitation systems, in three widely dispersed locations over the globe. The first storm was near Mexico's Pacific coast, whereas the second storm was over the South Pacific Ocean near the Solomon Islands, and the third storm was near Houston, Texas, USA. The comparisons showed good physical consistency between the TEMPEST-D and RainCube observations.
PIBOT: The Multi-Environment Robot for Surveillance & Live Streaming using Raspberry Pi on RASPBIAN platform

In the present world, each and every one is really worried about their safety and security. And this situation made the people to consider about the significance and the importance of the surveillance systems. And this system is employed for continuous monitoring and live streaming. The system can be deployed at anyplace. The live streaming can be done by interfacing Pi camera with the Raspberry Pi. The Raspberry Pi is mainly used for real-time surveillance system and it makes the robot to act and react within a local area network. The system can be programmed using python programming language.
Normalization of Central Cord Syndrome Spinal Cord Injury Urodynamics After Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy: A Case Report

Objective. To report a case of improved urodynamics in a central cord syndrome spinal cord injury after intrathecal baclofen therapy. Methods. A 47-year-old man fell resulting in C4-C5 disc herniation with ventral spinal cord compression and cord edema. Results. He underwent an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. Postoperatively, his examination revealed a C4 ASIA D injury in a central cord syndrome pattern. Cystometrogram (CMG) revealed a hyperactive detrusor with sphincter dyssynergia managed with intermittent self-catheterization. One and a half years later, he was impaired by severe lower limb spasticity, despite oral medications and botulinum toxin injections. After intrathecal pump therapy, CMG revealed relatively normal detrusor and minimal sphincter tone. He volitionally voids with urgency but improved continence, which was maintained in one-year follow-up. Conclusion. Although the main indication for intrathecal baclofen therapy is spasticity, improved urodynamics can be an additional benefit in central cord syndrome spinal cord injury.
Penetrative Internal Oxidation from Alloy 690 Surfaces and Stress Corrosion Crack Walls during Exposure to PWR Primary Water

Analytical electron microscopy and three-dimensional atom probe tomography (ATP) examinations of surface and near-surface oxidation have been performed on Ni-30%Cr alloy 690 materials after exposure to high-temperature, simulated PWR primary water. The oxidation nanostructures have been characterized at crack walls after stress-corrosion crack growth tests and at polished surfaces of unstressed specimens for the same alloys. Localized oxidation was discovered for both crack walls and surfaces as continuous filaments (typically <10 nm in diameter) extending from the water interface into the alloy 690 matrix reaching depths of ~500 nm. These filaments consisted of discrete, plate-shaped Cr2O3 particles surrounded by a distribution of nanocrystalline, rock-salt (Ni-Cr-Fe) oxide. The oxide-containing filament depth was found to increase with exposure time and, at longer times, the filaments became very dense at the surface leaving only isolated islands of metal. Individual dislocations were oxidized in non-deformed materials, while the oxidation path appeared to be along more complex dislocation substructures in heavily deformed materials. This paper will highlight the use of high resolution scanning and transmission electron microscopy in combination with APT to better elucidate the microstructure and microchemistry of the filamentary oxidation.
Histrionic Personality Disorder

Histrionic Personality Disorder is one of 10 personality disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR; American Psychiatric Association, 2000). DSM-IV-TR defines a personality disorder as an enduring pattern of inner experience and inflexible, pervasive, and ultimately self-defeating behavior, which is “stable and of long duration and its onset can be traced back at least to adolescence or early adulthood” (p. 689). Individuals diagnosed with histrionic personality disorder typically display exaggerated attention-seeking behavior, dramatic emotionality, and often sexually seductive or otherwise provocative behavior, all of which are intended to manipulate others to ensure that their childlike dependency needs might be met. One's initial impression of such individuals is that of a rather charming, outgoing, and entertaining person who is often flirtatious and places a great deal of emphasis on his or her physical attractiveness. However, as time passes it becomes evident that this interpersonal style is a superficial facade, calculated to exploit and manipulate others into providing them with excitement and a corresponding, albeit fleeting, sense of self-worth and identity. Keywords: histrionic personality disorder; hysteria; character disorders
RN-1, a potent and selective lysine-specific demethylase 1 inhibitor, increases γ-globin expression, F reticulocytes, and F cells in a sickle cell disease mouse model

Increased levels of fetal hemoglobin are associated with decreased symptoms and increased lifespan in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Hydroxyurea, the only drug currently approved for SCD, is not effective in a large fraction of patients, and therefore, new agents are urgently needed. Recently it was found that lysine demethylase 1, an enzyme that removes monomethyl and dimethyl residues from the lysine 4 residue of histone H3, is a repressor of γ-globin gene expression. In this article, we have compared the ability of tranylcypromine (TCP) and a more potent TCP derivative, RN-1, to increase γ-globin expression in cultured baboon erythroid progenitor cells and in the SCD mouse model. The results indicate that the ability of RN-1 to induce F cells and γ-globin mRNA in SCD mice is similar to that of decitabine, the most powerful fetal hemoglobin-inducing drug known, and greater than that of either TCP or hydroxyurea. We conclude that RN-1 and other lysine demethylase 1 inhibitors may be promising new γ-globin-inducing agents for the treatment of SCD that warrant further studies in other preclinical models, such as nonhuman primates.
Executive pay, earnings manipulation and shareholder litigation *

The paper examines the role of executive compensation in inducing management behavior that triggers private securities litigation. Incentive pay in the form of options is found to increase the probability of securities class action lawsuits, holding constant a wide range of other firm characteristics. In contrast, base pay levels and restricted stock grants do not have a significant impact on lawsuit incidence. Firms whose executives hold restricted stock only, and no options, induce less shareholder litigation. Our results suggest that option-based compensation may give executives too strong an incentive to target the short term share price, which may be harmful to long term shareholder value. We further identify earnings manipulation as an important channel linking compensation and litigation: incentive pay has a significant impact on earnings manipulation, which in turn significantly affects the probability of litigation. However, our accrual-based measure of manipulation does not capture the full impact of compensation on litigation, suggesting other channels are important.
Insect Control Technology

Insects are the most numerous of living organisms and the nearly one million described species constitute approximately 72% of all animal species. Of these about 1% are considered significant pests. This article summarizes the chemistry, properties, uses, and advantages and disadvantages of most of the chemicals used for insect control. These include many products of largely historical interest as well as some not registered for use in the United States but used elsewhere in the world. Approximately 70% of all insecticide use is in agriculture and applications are generally made directly to raw agricultural commodities to protect plants and animals from insect attacks. With the exception of microbial insecticides, nearly all of the uses of insecticides result in residues of the various chemicals and their degradation products. Basic guidelines for the limitations of pesticide residues in raw agricultural commodities are established by national and international agencies. International standardization is highly desirable for trade in foodstuffs and values for more than 100 pesticides used on more than 1600 specified food crops are reviewed periodically. Vol. 14, pp. 524–602, 77 refs. to 1993. Keywords: Insect control; Integrated pest management; Organophosphorus insecticides; Insect growth regulators; Carbamates; Acaricides; Insecticides; Stomach poisons; Contact poisons; Synthetic pyrethoids; Organoochlorine insecticides; Genetic control; Formulations; Repellents; Residues in food; Fumigants; Microbial control
SPONTANEOUSLY ACQUIRED FACTOR IX INHIBITOR IN A NON-HEMOPHILIAC CHILD

A previously healthy 2-1/2 year old child was hospitalized for progressive swelling of the left leg and a falling hemoglobin (11.9-8.8 gm %). The partial thromboplastin time (PTT) was prolonged (88 secs.) while the prothrombin time (PT), platelet count and bleeding time were normal. The PTT did not shorten despite the administration of 225 ml of fresh frozen plasma. An ecchymotic right sided chest mass was noted. Upon arrival at the University of Minnesota Hospitals, the PTT was 79.2 sec. with a normal PT and thrombin time (TT). The Factor IX was 27% and 15% respectively on two specimens with an inhibitory curve. The remaining factor assays were within the normal range. In vitro inactivation of Factor IX in normal plasma by patient plasma was also demonstrated. Treatment consisted of a four volume exchange transfusion, cyclophosphamide 10 mg/kg for four days and prednisone 60 mg/m2/day tapered gradually over one month. Following exchange transfusion, Factor IX levels remained normal. Within five days the swelling diminished and the ecchymotic mass resolved. Presently off all medications the Factor IX level is 124%. Numerous laboratory studies obtained prior to immunosuppressive therapy were normal except for a positive fluorescent nuclear antibody (FANA) in an indeterminant pattern. The patient has had no signs or symptoms consistent with a collagen vascular disease.
Polarization propagator calculations of generalized oscillator strengths and stopping cross sections of He

Abstract We describe the first application of the polarization propagator method to the calculation of generalized oscillator strengths (GOS's). Both first-order (RPA) and second-order polarization propagator results are reported for the test case of the He atom. We show that fulfillment of the Bethe sum rule in finite Gaussian basis sets will always deteriorate for sufficiently large momentum transfers q, but that it is possible to obtain a satisfactory sum rule for all q by grafting on a limiting hydrogenlike expansion for the GOS's for large values of the excitation energies, En − E0. Even though the polarization propagator calculation gives the main part of the stopping cross section we will demonstrate that in order to obtain the correct result for large velocity of the incoming projectile it is essential to include the GOS's obtained from the limiting expansion.
Fiber-optic strain-displacement sensor employing nonlinear buckling

A new class of intrinsic fiber-optic strain-displacement sensors based on the precisely controlled nonlinear buckling of optical fibers and the resulting optical bend loss is introduced. A multimode fiber version of the sensor is described that exhibits a sensing range convenient for many structural monitoring applications (<100 nm to several millimeters), linear response over a wide range of displacements, and excellent repeatability. It is extremely simple to fabricate and employs inexpensive optoelectronics. A high-temperature version of the sensor is capable of operation at temperatures as high as 600 °C.
In flight positron annihilation in thin targets

We report on the first direct energy resolved measurements of two quantum annihilation in flight (TQAF) using monoenergetic positrons below 100 keV. A monoenergetic positron beam at Washington State University with variable kinetic energy up to 70 keV was guided onto thin aluminum targets. To clearly identify in flight positron annihilation a two dimensional Doppler broadening technique was employed utilizing two HPGe detectors. The method uniquely identifies TQAF by providing the total energy of the annihilating electron-positron pair. A basic understanding of the fundamental TQAF process has been obtained using this high resolution technique. With this fundamental understanding we believe several new avenues of experimental exploration are possible.
ION--ION POTENTIALS IN A TWO CENTER MODEL.

Abstract The two center shell model has been used to calculate ion-ion potentials for 12 C+ 12 C, 16 O+ 16 O, and 18 O+ 18 O. Because of the ion shell structure the 16 O+ 16 O potential is significantly shallow, in agreement with optical model potentials derived from scattering experiments. A mechanism is proposed to calculate the transition between adiabatic and nonadiabatic potentials as a function of the ion energies.
Experimental demonstration of waveguide-coupled corner-cut square resonators

In this paper we present the design, fabrication and characterization of waveguide-coupled corner-cut square resonators. The square resonators are attractive for multiple applications including sensors, filters and lasers. We use two- and three- dimensional finite difference time domain (FDTD) methods to optimize the performance of the square resonator. We show that the dropping efficiency for these type of microcavities depends on the gap between the waveguide and the cavity and the corner-cut length, which is defined as a distance c away from the cavity sidewalls. Fabrication of these corner-cut square-resonators is performed on Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) by conventional E-beam lithography and dry etching. These processes were optimized to achieve vertical and smooth sidewalls in order to decrease scattering losses and they will be discussed in details below. Characterization of these corner-cut square resonators shows good performance and excellent agreement with the rigorous electromagnetic simulation. We will also discuss the potential application of using this design in combination with dispersion based Photonic Crystals (PhCs) to achieve lasing.
A multi-scale computational model using Generalized Method of Cells (GMC) homogenization for multi-phase single crystal metals

Abstract A multi-scale computational model for determining the elastic–plastic behavior of a multi-phase metal is developed on a finite element analysis (FEA) framework. A single crystal plasticity constitutive model that can capture the shear deformation and the associated stress field on the slip planes is employed at the microstructural (grain) length scale. The Generalized Method of Cells (GMC) micromechanics model is used for homogenizing the local field quantities. At first, the ability of GMC for homogenization is evaluated by analyzing simple problems using GMC as a stand-alone tool. A repeating unit cell (RUC) of a two-phase CMSX-4 Ni-based superalloy with 72.9% volume fraction of γ ′ inclusion in the γ matrix phase is used for the evaluation. The evaluation is performed by comparing the results with those predicted by a FEA model incorporating the same crystal plasticity constitutive model. The average global stress–strain behavior predicted by GMC demonstrated excellent agreement with FEA. The agreement between the local distribution of the field quantities predicted by GMC and FEA was satisfactory, especially when considering the substantial savings in the computational cost due to homogenization. Finally, the capability of the developed multi-scale model, linking FEA and GMC, to solve real life sized structures is demonstrated by analyzing an engine disk component and determining the microstructural scale details of the field quantities of the two-phase CMSX-4 Ni-based superalloy.
On Linking Leadership Theories

Students are sometimes confused by the proliferation of leadership theories and concepts and have trouble seeing how these relate to one another and apply to leadership style in real situations. This article discusses an approach to presenting leadership that has been used by the author with encouraging results. It is built around a simple graphic representation, with initiation of structure and substitutes for leadership as the integrating concepts. Implications for participative leadership and employee development are discussed.
Hurricane Katrina: prior trauma, poverty and health among Vietnamese-American survivors

Background: The flooding of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina revealed the disproportionate vulnerability of ethnic minority communities for emergency preparedness, disaster relief and health. Nurses need to analyse Katrina's health consequences for the most vulnerable segments of our society. Aim: To examine factors contributing to differential health outcomes among the New Orleans Vietnamese community in response to Katrina. Methods: A sample of 113 adult Vietnamese Katrina survivors from New Orleans was recruited. A mixed-method approach, including survey and focus groups, was used to collect data. Survey questions were modified from standardized instruments to evaluate survivors' health status and factors contributing to health outcomes. Multivariate and content analysis were used to investigate effects of prior trauma, financial strain, social support and acculturation level in predicting survivors' health outcomes. Results: Findings suggested financial strain was the strongest risk factor for Vietnamese survivors' post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and physical and mental health post-disaster; while social support was a strong protective factor for health. Survivors who perceived higher impact from previous traumatic experiences had poorer physical health, but not PTSD symptoms or poor mental health after controlling for financial strain and social support, suggesting complex relationships among these measures in predicting PTSD symptoms and health. Less-acculturated individuals also reported higher levels of PTSD symptoms and poorer physical health. Conclusions: Catastrophic events like Katrina can result in disproportionate risk of negative health outcomes among vulnerable populations. Nurses should take into account prior trauma, financial strain, social support network and acculturation level, to adequately address survivors' needs.
Polymer electrolytes from plasticized polyMOBs and their gel forms

Abstract Plasticized and crosslinked versions of poly(lithium oligoetherato mono-oxalato borate), called lithium polyMOBs, have been studied. In heavily plasticized forms of both polyMOB, and a LiBH4-crosslinked polyMOB, the ionic conductivity reaches 10−3 S cm−1 at room temperature while single ion conductivity is automatically retained. The electrochemical stability window is up to 5 V, for both stainless steel (SS) electrodes. The plasticized forms are fluid, not a gel, due to the low molecular weight of the polyanions. Freestanding gel electrolytes with high single ionic conductivity of 10−4 S cm−1 at ambient can be obtained by incorporation of high molecular weight poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) into the solution. Electrochemical cells using these electrolytes will not suffer from concentration polarization.
A Valence Bond Description of Coordinate Covalent Bonding

The coordinate covalent (dative) bonded molecules H3N−BH3, H3N−BF3, F3N−BH3, H3N−BMe3, and Me3N−BH3 have been studied using valence bond theory (VB). The classic three-structure VB picture changes slightly to account for the increased importance of the VB configuration with both electrons on the donor fragment. When the effects of geometric distortion upon molecule formation are removed, the expected trends in bond energies emerge. Addition of electron-withdrawing (F) substitutents increases bond energy in H3N−BF3 and decreases bond energy in F3N−BH3. Likewise, addition of electron-donating methyl groups (Me) decreases bond energy in H3N−BMe3 and increases bond energy in Me3N−BH3. In addition, the effects of adding fluorines stepwise in the series H3N−BH3, H3N−BH2F, H3N−BHF2, H3N−BF3 has been determined. Bond energies are due to the opposing factors of electron withdrawal due to the high fluorine electronegativity and donation into the N−B bonding region by F p lone pairs. VB weights obtained by the metho...
Passive Fit of Implant-Retained Prosthetic Superstructures Improved by Electric Discharge Machining

Purpose An absolutely passive fit at the interface with the superstructure and the abutment cylinders is needed for implant longevity. In this study, a method of cast framework correction using electric discharge machining (EDM) was evaluated. Materials and Methods An original research model incorporating strain gages was devised to measure the fit of implant superstructures in three dimensions as cast and to compare this relationship with the fit following framework machining with EDM. Results Visually, the fit of the frameworks was excellent, and the results of ANOVA demonstrated that the mean fit of the frameworks significantly improved (P > .04) after machining with EDM. Conclusions The EDM process offers a rapid, accurate, and simple technique to correct for casting inaccuracies in the fabrication of hybrid implant prostheses.
A tutorial on the geometric analysis of linear time-invariant implicit systems

Abstract A background of recent work in nonregular and regular implicit systems of the form E x = Ax + Bu is provided. Then, the output-nulling, unknown-input and composite subspaces are defined for singular systems, with recursions given for their computation. Inner subspaces, that is those in the domain of E and A, are distinguished from outer subspaces, those in the codomain of E and A. The notions of composite preimage and composite image are introduced. The result is a framework that unifies some of the recent work in the geometric theory of implicit systems. System properties are discussed for both regular and nonregular systems, and duality is investigated.
Balancing Liberty, Stability, and Security

Balancing the liberties afforded to individuals with the need for stability and security in cyberspace is a never-ending task. Achieving and maintaining the desired balance depends in large part on cooperation, built on trust, between the participants in cyber ecosystems. Proposals to cultivate such cooperation were made at a recent international forum on addressing crime, terrorism, and conflict in cyberspace.
Race Riots Past and Present: A Cultural‐Collective Behavior Approach

Four essential themes in a cultural-collective behavior approach to race riots are developed. First is the historical shift in patterns of race rioting. Second is the application of a general collective behavior model accounting for extrainstitutionality, conversion of feelings into overt action, and acting collectively rather than individually. Third is process, stressing contingent developments during a period of testing. Fourth is the nullification of customary meanings of action, with clues to understanding drawn from anthropological study of “rituals of rebellion” and psychological studies of “obedience to authority.”
The diagnostic and therapeutic challenge of femoral head osteoid osteoma presenting as thigh pain: a case report

Osteoid osteoma, an infrequent but important cause of musculoskeletal pain, is often difficult to diagnose. We present a case of a 31-year-old man who, for 2 years, had left groin pain radiating to the thigh. Symptoms began 1 month after a motorcycle crash in which he sustained only shin abrasions. Initial spine and hip radiographs were negative. Treatment with naproxen provided significant relief, but the symptoms gradually worsened over 6 months. An electromyogram and lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the left lower leg were unremarkable. Hip MRI revealed edema without fracture. Prophylactic femoral pinning for impending stress fracture provided no relief. Rheumatologic evaluation revealed normal serologies and synovial fluid. Cyclobenzaprine and sulfasalazine were started and provided mild relief. At presentation to our institution, he was in significant discomfort, but could ride a bicycle for exercise and was completing a home exercise program. He had antalgic gait and globally restricted hip motion with end-range pain. A neurologic examination showed no abnormalities. Hip and pelvis computed tomography scan revealed increased sclerosis of the femoral head, with a central lucency suggestive of osteoid osteoma. This was confirmed by biopsy. Radiofrequency ablation provided significant symptom relief.
Magnetic behavior of transition metal substituted CeRh3B2: Destabilization of the 4f moment☆

Abstract CeRh 3 B 2 is magnetically ordered with a low moment of 0.4μ B but an unusually high Curie temperature ( T C ) of 115 K. We find that replacement of 10% Rh by Ru or Os (but not Ir) results in a sharp decrease in the 4f moment and T C . This behavior is thought to arise from the changes in the hybridization of the 4f electrons of Ce with 4d, 5d electrons of Rh, Ru Os and Ir. At the other extreme, CeRu 3 B 2 and CeOs 3 B 2 exhibit superconductivity.
The impact of a Hausman pretest on the size of a hypothesis test: The panel data case

The size properties of a two-stage test in a panel data model are investigated where in the …rst stage a Hausman (1978) speci…cation test is used as a pretest of the random eects speci…cation and in the second stage, a simple hypothesis about a component of the parameter vector is tested, using a t-statistic that is based on either the random eects or the …xed eects estimator depending on the outcome of the Hausman pretest. It is shown that the asymptotic size of the two-stage test depends on the degree of time variation in the regressors and on the variance of the error term relative to the variance of the individual speci…c eect and equals 1 for empirically relevant speci…cations of the parameter space. Monte carlo simulations document that the size distortion is well re‡ected in …nite samples. The size distortion is caused mainly by the poor power properties of the pretest that lead to frequent unjusti…ed inference based on the random eects estimator in the second stage. However, it is also shown that the conditional size of the test, conditional on the Hausman pretest rejecting the pretest null hypothesis, exceeds the nominal level of the test. Given the results in the paper, the recommendation then is to use a t-statistic based on the …xed eects estimator instead of using the two-stage procedure.
Didanosine-induced hepatitis.

TO THE EDITOR: The hepatopathy associated with didanosine (ddI) and other nucleoside analogs has been varied but, in most instances, has been described as some form of steatosis with minimal hepatic necrosis (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9). We present a patient who developed clinically severe liver injury while taking ddI. Liver disease recurred on re-exposure to the drug, and a liver biopsy showed extensive hepatocellular necrosis with collapse-fibrosis and inflammation.
The exploitation and status of the common seal (Phoca vitulina) in Shetland

Since 1945 the prices paid for Common Seal skins have encouraged competitive sealing in Shetland, bringing about £5,000 to the islands each year. Hunting has increased in intensity and most of the pups born each year are now killed. A general decline in numbers of adults has become noticeable, and as large a numerical proportion as two-thirds of some colonies have disappeared in the last decade.
Biofuel and petroleum-based fuel supply chain research: A literature review

Abstract During the last decade, countries around the world - especially the U.S., Brazil, and many in Europe - have worked to accelerate the commercialization of a biofuel industry. As pilot plant studies for the second-generation biofuel (e.g., cellulosic biofuel) currently seek to determine the most viable feedstocks and processing technologies, it is an opportune time to formulate operations research (OR) models of the biofuel supply chain (SC) so they might be used to implement the technologies that prove to be most promising. This paper provides a literature review of research on the biofuel SC. It classifies prior research according to decision time frame (i.e., strategic, tactical, operational, and integrated) as well as level in the supply chain (i.e., upstream, midstream, and downstream). In addition, it reviews related research on agri-products, which have some commonalities relative to harvesting and perishability; petroleum-based fuels, which have some commonalities related to distribution (some biofuels can be mixed with gasoline but others cannot); and generic supply chains, which provide some applicable modeling structures. Finally, this paper emphasizes unique needs to support decisions that integrate the farm with commercial levels (e.g., storage, pre-processing, refining, and distribution) and identifies fertile avenues for future research on the biofuel supply chain. OR models are needed to help assure the economic viability of the biofuel industry. They can be used by growers, processors, and distributors to design and manage an integrated system and by government to inform policies needed to stimulate the growth of the industry and, perhaps, subsidize it.
Three new Nematoda - Comesomatidae from Bermuda

Abstract From the sandy intertidal of Tucker's Town Cove, Bermuda, the following free-living nematodes are described: Paracomesoma inaequale sp. nov., Comesoma bermudense sp. nov. and Sabatieria migrans sp. nov.; the two last named belong to the most abundant nematode species of the sand flat. In some individuals of Paracomesoma inaequale and Sabatielia migrans the tip of the tail had been broken and the wound subsequently healed. Hence Sabatieria conicauda Vitiello, 1970,is possibly based upon specimens with broken tails. A new species Comesoma chilense sp. nov. is established for nematodes included by Wieser, 1954, under the name Comesoma minimum Chitwood, 1937. Comesoma sipho Gerlach, 1956,is transferred to the genus Paracomesoma Hope & Murphy, 1972.
Effects of nectar variance on learning by bumble bees

Abstract Abstract. The variation in standing crops of nectar among flowers within a species is usually very high. This nectar variance may decrease a forager's ability to estimate the mean reward offered by alternative plant species. Consequently, learning performance under high nectar variance may be reduced. To examine this prediction, bumble bees were tested for their abilities to learn to discriminate rewarding from non-rewarding flowers under four levels of nectar variance. The learning rate of bumble bees was significantly lower with nectar variance than with no variance. However, learning rates did not differ among the three levels of nectar variance. The results suggest that under increasing nectar variance bees do not increase sampling period, but instead base their foraging decisions on the less reliable information from a certain maximum number of flowers sampled.
The screen efficiency of sealed-off high-speed-oscillograph cathode-ray tubes

The factors which affect the screen efficiency of a high-speed oscillograph cathode-ray tube are summarized, and the nature of the shape of the luminance pulse produced by a short-duration square-wave screen excitation is explained. It is then shown how shortening the duration of screen excitation reduces the screen efficiency of the tube as a consequence of energy lost by non-radiative dissipation.
Thioredoxin Peroxidase (Natural Killer Enhancing Factor) Regulation of Activator Protein-1 Function in Endothelial Cells

Abstract Thioredoxin peroxidase-1 (TxP-1), originally cloned as natural killer enhancing factor-B, belongs to a highly conserved antioxidant family. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF) activates the expression of activator protein-1 (AP-1) responsive genes. We show here that over-expression of TxP-1 blocks TNF-induced AP-1 activation in endothelial ECV304 cells, which was demonstrated by three independent experimental protocols: electromobility shift assay with AP-1 oligonucleotide probe; reporter gene expression with AP-1 binding site, and interleukin-8 production, which is dependent on AP-1. These results are consistent with the role of TxP-1 as an antioxidant and the previous reports that TNF-induced reactive oxygen species were responsible for AP-1 activation.