cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synergistic Effects of Fatigue and Marine Environments on Carbon Fiber Vinyl-Ester Composites

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites used in the construction of composite-based civil and military marine crafts are often exposed to aggressive elements that include ultraviolet radiation, moisture, and cyclic loadings. With time, these elements can individually and more so cooperatively degrade the mechanical properties and structural integrity of FRP composites. To assist in increasing the long-term reliability of composite marine crafts, this work experimentally investigates the cooperative damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV), moisture, and cyclic loading on the structural integrity of carbon fiber reinforced vinyl-ester marine composite. Results demonstrate that UV and moisture can synergistically interact with fatigue damage mechanisms and accelerate fatigue damage accumulation. For the considered composite, damage and S–N curve models with minimal fitting constants are proposed. The new models are derived by adapting well-known cumulative fatigue damage models to account for the ability of UV and moisture to accelerate fatigue damaging effects.
Replanning: A powerful planning strategy for hard kinodynamic problems

A series of kinodynamic sampling-based planners have appeared over the last decade to deal with high dimensional problems for robots with realistic motion constraints. Yet, offline sampling-based planners only work in static and known environments, suffer from unbounded memory requirements and the produced paths tend to contain a lot of unnecessary maneuvers. This paper describes an online replanning algorithm which is flexible and extensible. Our results show that using a sampling-based planner in a loop, we can guide the robot to its goal using a low dimensional navigation function. We obtain higher success rates and shorter solution paths in a series of problems using only bounded memory.
A SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPE STUDY OF OLIVINE CRYSTAL SURFACES

SEM photographs were taken of euhedral olivine grains from the Murchison C2 chondrite and several terrestrial and lunar occurrences. In general, the crystal faces of the meteorite grains are rough and uneven, with irregular growth patterns. They are very similar to crystal faces on terrestrial olivine grains that formed by sublimation from a vapor phase. They are very different from the relatively smooth and featureless surfaces of magmatic olivine crystals that precipitated from igneous melts. Qualitatively, the surface morphology of the crystal supports the contention that many euhedral crystals of olivine in C2 meteorites condensed from a gas phase.
Avoiding stick-slip through PD control

Addresses the question of how to achieve steady motion at very low velocities using proportional-derivative (PD) control. Most prior work in control has used friction models which depend only on the current value of velocity. This type of analysis indicates that stick-slip can be avoided only through velocity feedback. The tribology literature, however, indicates that friction also depends on the history of motion. By including this dependence, a second regime of stable motion is revealed which is associated with position feedback gains above a critical value. Two experimentally-based dynamic friction models are compared using a linearized stability analysis. In accord with experiment, a state variable friction model exhibits asymptotically stable motion for any system stiffness (position feedback gain) exceeding a critical value. This property is not exhibited by a time-lag friction model. >
Mass spectrometry of molecular solids

Positive and negative ion spectra of various industrially important polymers were recorded using the Laser Microprobe Mass Analysis (LAMMA) technique. Using methods developed in earlier work [1] we interpret the ions as being generated from the polymer backbone or pendant sidechain functional groups. Results are given for polypropylene, polyacrylamide, polystyrene, polycaprolactam (Nylon 6) and polydimethylsiloxane. Mass patterns are analyzed and compared to the previous work.
Minimum-time cornering for CNC machines using an optimal control method with NURBS parameterization

Speed and accuracy are conflicting demands that must be met by manufacturing machines. This conflict is very frequently encountered when executing sharp corners where, to achieve tight tolerances, machine axes have to slow down considerably thus sacrificing cycle time. The most common way of reducing this tradeoff between speed and accuracy is to smooth the corner using a pre-specified curve (e.g., a spline) that allows high-speed cornering subject to path tolerance and machine kinematic limits. This paper presents a different corner-smoothing approach where the smoothing curve is not specified a priori. Instead, an optimal control method is used to generate the best free-form curve that minimizes corner traversal time while adhering to path tolerance and kinematic constraints. The resulting optimal free-form curve is parameterized using an enhanced NURBS curve fitting process to allow its accurate execution in a CNC. Illustrative examples are presented to demonstrate the merits of the proposed approach.
The effect of corporate governance on investment: Evidence from real estate investment trusts

This study investigates the relation between firms' investment choices and various governance mechanisms, using a sample of real estate investment trusts (REITs). We find evidence that the responsiveness of REITs' investment expenditures to their opportunities depends on their corporate governance structures. Within the set of governance mechanisms that we examine, we find particularly strong links between investment behavior and ownership. Specifically, we find that the investment choices of REITs are more closely tied to Tobin's q if they have greater institutional ownership or if they have lower director and officer stock ownership. These results are consistent with institutional owners monitoring the firm's investment policies as well as with high insider ownership allowing managers to follow their own investment agendas.
Analyzing the Simulation Properties of a Macroeconometric Model by Estimating Its Implicit AD-AS Structure

Large macroeconometric models are frequently used to simulate the responses of endogenous variables to exogenous shocks. Because the models are complex, it is often difficult to predict the outcomes of such experiments, to explain the results in an intuitive way, or to determine why alternative models produce different results.
The Quack's Daughter: A True Story about the Private Life of a Victorian College Girl

Review of: "The Quack's Daughter: A True Story about the Private Life of a Victorian College Girl," by Greta Nettleton.
Chemotherapy Induced Cardiomyopathy

The proximate cause of heart failure and cardiomyopathy is not always obvious and the optimal treatment of this condition may involve a variety of strategies. It is being increasingly recognized that cardiomyopathy related to chemotherapy is not only possible but likely in the right clinical setting. The complexity and success of cancer treatment is rising dramatically and as the population ages there is a substantial likelihood that chemotherapy related cardiotoxicity will be encountered and must be recognized and optimally treated. This chapter highlights the common chemotherapy agents associated with cardiotoxicity and outlines a practical approach to the identification and treatment of cardiomyopathy and heart failure encountered in cancer patients. There are several classes of drugs that have a higher incidence of cardiomyopathy such as the anthracyclines, trastuzumab (anti-HER2 therapy), and certain anto-angiogenic based treatments. The pathophysiology, identification and optimal treatment is summarized for each general category of cancer therapy. Future efforts will need to include careful research for the best noninvasive or biomarker approach for the detection of toxicity and a thorough detailing of outcomes with chosen cardiac treatments.
Design and Application of a Kind of Fuze-warhead Coordination Simulation System Based on Modularization Idea

Aiming at the requirement of fuze-warhead coordination simulation,a kind of simulation system framework based on the idea of modularization and object-oriented was proposed,which contains model management module,encounter parameter management module,warhead simulation module,fuze simulation module,and visualization simulation module.The method of complex targets modeling and near-field scattering computation was introduced,the start-up characteristic was analyzed,a method of adjusting delay time of fuze was proposed.The whole process of fuze-warhead coordination visualization simulation was achieved with OpenGL.The application of the system in the development of air-defence missile was demonstrated by an example.
Behavioral Indicators of Satiation: a Systematic Review

The use of behavioral indicators as a measure of satiation was a procedure developed by O'Reilly et al. (Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 42, 773–783, 2009) to systematically manipulate presession access to a tangible reinforcer. In order to gain a better understanding of the utility of behavioral indicators of satiation in applied settings, a systematic literature review was conducted identifying nine additional studies that implemented this procedure. This review synthesized the research in terms of participant characteristics, use of behavioral indicators, dependent variables, and study outcomes. Results suggest this procedure is an effective way to decrease challenging behaviors and increase adaptive, on-task behaviors, adding to the literature in regard to the manipulation of abolishing operations as well as serving to identify future investigations into the use of behavioral indicators as a measure of satiation.
The Assessment of the Adult Patient with Overweight and Obesity

The patient with obesity is complicated and unique. They often suffer from a cluster of interrelated symptoms and syndromes. When this patient seeks medical help of any kind, it is our job as medical practitioners to give guidance and support so the patient can achieve overall better health. This process starts with taking a comprehensive health history because the specific factors contributing to obesity in each particular patient must be ascertained to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment of the patient. The specific format for taking such a history in a patient with obesity is clearly laid out in this chapter. Next, a detailed physical assessment must be conducted by the medical practitioner. This chapter outlines the mechanics and unique challenges of performing such an exam correctly and the various tools that can be used, including necessary or recommended diagnostic tests. Information regarding additional assessments on patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is also provided in this chapter, along with a discussion about disordered sleep. Finally, this chapter explains the importance of doing a summary assessment in which patient goals are established and a treatment plan is created. Treatment often starts with realistic and more easily attainable goals before bigger goals are set because asking a patient to do everything at once will likely result in failure and frustration.
Identifying Learning Objectives by Seeking a Balance between Student and Industry Expectations for Technology Exposure in Construction Education

AbstractBuilding information modeling (BIM) and mobile technology have become an important aspect of managing successful construction companies. In order to ensure that students graduating from con...
Severe Carisoprodol Withdrawal After a 14-Year Addiction and Acute Overdose.

Abstract Background Carisoprodol, a centrally acting muscle relaxant with a high abuse potential, has barbiturate-like properties at the GABA-A receptor, leading to central nervous system depression and desired effects. Its tolerance and dependence has been previously demonstrated in an animal model, and withdrawal has been described in several recent case reports. Many cases can be effectively managed with a short course of benzodiazepines or antipsychotic agents. However, abrupt cessation in a patient with a history of long-term and high-dose carisoprodol abuse may result in symptoms that are more difficult for providers to treat. Case Report We present a case of a 34-year-old man with a long history of carisoprodol abuse who was found unresponsive after having ingested 7.5 grams of carisoprodol. He was intubated and admitted to the intensive care unit. He was given propofol, dexmedetomidine, fentanyl, ketamine, lorazepam, midazolam, quetiapine, and haloperidol, some at high-dose infusions, before his agitation and ventilator asynchrony could be controlled. His improvement coincided with the addition of carisoprodol and phenobarbital to his treatment regimen. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This? Trends show increasing emergency department presentations for drug-related disorders and treatment. This case highlights an uncommon case of carisoprodol withdrawal that may be encountered by emergency physicians, and demonstrates that benzodiazepines may not be sufficient to suppress severe withdrawal symptoms. Treatment with carisoprodol and phenobarbital provided additional benefit and can be considered in cases of severe carisoprodol withdrawal.
Loss of caveolin-1 alters extracellular matrix protein expression and ductal architecture in murine mammary glands

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is abnormal in breast tumors and has been reported to contribute to breast tumor progression. One factor, which may drive ongoing matrix synthesis in breast tumors, is the loss of stromal caveolin-1 (cav-1), a scaffolding protein of caveolae, which has been linked to breast tumor aggressiveness. To determine whether loss of cav-1 results in the abnormal expression of matrix proteins, mammary glands from cav- 1-/- and cav- 1 +/+ mice were investigated for differences in expression of several ECM proteins. In addition, the presence of myofibroblasts, changes in the vessel density, and differences in duct number and size were assessed in the mammary glands of both animal models. Using immunohistochemistry, expression of fibronectin, tenascin-C, collagens and αSMA were significantly increased in the mammary glands of cav-1-/- mice. Second harmonic generation revealed more organized collagen fibers in cav-1 -/- glands and supported immunohistochemical analyses of increased collagen abundance in the glands of cav-1 -/- mice. Analysis of the ductal structure demonstrated a significant increase in the number of proliferating ducts in addition to significant increases in the duct circumference and area in cav-1 -/- glands compared to cav- 1 +/+ glands. Differences in microvessel density weren't apparent between the animal models. In summary, we found that the loss of cav-1 resulted in increased ECM and α-SMA protein expression in murine mammary glands. Furthermore, we found that an abnormal ductal architecture accompanied the loss of cav-1. These data support a role for cav-1 in maintaining mammary gland structure.
Clofarabine and Clofarabine Plus Low-Dose Cytarabine (ara-C) as Induction Therapy for Patients (pts) ≥ 60 Years with Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).

Optimal induction therapy for pts ≥ 60 years (yrs) with AML remains undefined. Clofarabine is a purine deoxyadenosine analog with single agent activity in AML. Due to its metabolic and pharmacokinetic properties it is also an ideal agent for biochemical modulation strategies with other nucleoside analogs such as ara-C. In previous trials we reported our experience with clofarabine + intermediate doses of ara-C for salvage and frontline AML pts. To further explore clofarabine in AML, we investigated a lower dose schedule of clofarabine +/− low-dose ara-C (LDAC) in pts ≥ 60 yrs and previously untreated AML. Pts were adaptively randomized (based on history of response in each arm) to receive either clofarabine (C) at 30mg/m 2 /d i.v. daily d1-5 or clofarabine at 30mg/m 2 /d i.v. daily d1-5 + LDAC at 20mg/m 2 /d s.c. daily d1-14. Pts in remission received consolidation therapy q4-7 wks with clofarabine daily on d1-3 +/− LDAC daily on d1-7. Pts with ECOG PS ≥ 3 and/or a history of NYHA ≥ grade 3 heart disease were not eligible. Pts were admitted to a laminar airflow room (“protective environment”) for the duration of the induction. All pts received antibiotic prophylaxis consisting of levaquin, valacyclovir, and itraconazole (or equivalents). No antifungal prophylaxis was given during the days of the clofarabine infusions. Fifty-four pts have been enrolled (C 14; C+LDAC 40). Median age: 71 yrs (range 60–83). An antecedent hematologic disorder (MDS, CMML, NHL) or other malignancy was present in 28 pts (52%). Twenty-four pts (44%) had abnormal cytogenetics of whom 11 (20%) had −5, −7, or 11q23 abnormalities. Flt3 ITD/mutations were found in 7 pts (14%). Forty-four pts are evaluable for response (C 12; C+LDAC 32). Twenty-four pts (55%) achieved CR and 1 (2%) CRp for an overall response rate (ORR) of 57%. Median time to CR: 34 days (25–78). Response by treatment arm: 1) C (n=12): 5 (42%) CR; 2) C+LDAC (n=32): 19 (59%) CR, 1 (3%) CRp, ORR 62% (p=NS for CR rate). Most toxicities were ≤ grade 2 and included nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, skin rashes and temporary elevations of transaminases and serum bilirubin. Myelosuppression was ubiquitous and myelosuppression-associated infectious complications were frequent. Nine pts (17%) died during induction (6/40 on C; 3/14 on C+LDAC), of whom 2 died early (≤ 14 days of treatment start): 71 yo female with E. coli sepsis on d12 (C); 83 yo male with pulmonary hemorrhage and pneumonia d14 (C+LDAC). In summary, clofarabine and clofarabine + LDAC show activity in older pts with AML. Its role in elderly AML induction needs to be evaluated further. Myelosuppression-associated complications remain frequent. An update of responses and time-to-event parameters will be presented.
Insights from population-based analyses of plasma lipids across the allele frequency spectrum

Plasma lipid levels are heritable quantitative risk factors and therapeutic targets for cardiovascular disease. Plasma lipids have been a model for translating genetic observations across the allele frequency spectrum to unique biological and therapeutic insights. Most large studies to date predominately comprised of individuals of European ancestry. This review focuses on contemporary evidence from 2016 to 2017 looking at the effect of genetic variants on plasma lipid levels across the allele frequency spectrum with incrementally larger sample sizes and the contribution of non-European ancestry studies to the genetic etiology of plasma lipid levels. To date, over 250 loci have been associated with plasma lipid levels and several of these loci have additional evidence of association with rare coding variants providing evidence for causal genes at the locus.
Technology-assisted Investigative Search: A Case Study from an Illicit Domain

For many, search engines like Google and Bing offer excellent facilities for satisfying information needs. However, a class of needs not currently addressed by generic search engines is investigative search, which has massive potential for using adaptive technology for social good. In this case study, we describe the challenges of investigative search in the online sex trafficking domain, along with the insights gained from user feedback in using a real-world investigative search system developed in our group.
Adaptive detection of DC Arc faults based on hurst exponents and current envelope

In this paper, an improved adaptive method for dc arc faults detection is proposed based on current envelope and Hurst exponents. The method is developed to be used in dc electrical distribution systems (EDS) including PV systems, DC micro-grids, and 48 V mild hybrid electric vehicles. The proposed method is shown to be effective in arc detection and immune to switching harmonics, high di/dt transients, sudden load changes, and noisy load profiles. A test setup is built and several hundred dc arcs were generated under different operation conditions including air gap, current, and various electrode thicknesses.
Astronomy and Cancer Research: X-Rays and Nanotechnology from Black Holes to Cancer Therapy

It seems highly unlikely that any connection is to be found between astronomy and medicine. But then it also appears to be obvious: X-rays. However, that is quite superficial because the nature of X-rays in the two disciplines is quite different. Nevertheless, we describe recent research on exactly that kind of link. Furthermore, the linkage lies in atomic physics, and via spectroscopy which is a vital tool in astronomy and may also be equally valuable in biomedical research. This review begins with the physics of black hole environments as viewed through X-ray spectroscopy. It is then shown that similar physics can be applied to spectroscopic imaging and therapeutics using heavy-element (high-Z) moieties designed to target cancerous tumors. X-ray irradiation of high-Z nanomaterials as radiosensitizing agents should be extremely efficient for therapy and diagnostics (theranostics). However, broadband radiation from conventional X-ray sources (such as CT scanners) results in vast and unnecessary radiation exposure. Monochromatic X-ray sources are expected to be considerably more efficient. We have developed a new and comprehensive methodology—Resonant Nano-Plasma Theranostics (RNPT)—that encompasses the use of monochromatic X-ray sources and high-Z nanoparticles. Ongoing research entails theoretical computations, numerical simulations, and in vitro and in vivo biomedical experiments. Stemming from basic theoretical studies of Kα resonant photoabsorption and fluorescence in all elements of the Periodic Table, we have established a comprehensive multi-disciplinary program involving researchers from physics, chemistry, astronomy, pathology, radiation oncology and radiology. Large-scale calculations necessary for theory and modeling are done at a variety of computational platforms at the Ohio Supercomputer Center. The final goal is the implementation of RNPT for clinical applications.
Laryngomalacia, Supraglottoplasty, and Feeding and Swallowing Disorders: Is There An Association?

Laryngomalacia (LM) is a commonly encountered entity in infants and children with stridor and other upper aerodigestive symptoms [1]. Although the presentation and functional deficits encompass stridor, cyanotic spells, failure to thrive, and feeding and swallowing disorders (FSD), traditionally, the main focus had been on the respiratory impairment. The earlier and majority of the literature has been concerned mainly with the most severe cases whose life or thriving was at risk and the assessment of surgical success to relieve them [2]. Later research examined the association of LM with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) [3], and only relatively recently has interest been directed toward the impact of FSD.
The Hallmarks of Ferroptosis

Ferroptosis is a nonapoptotic, iron-dependent form of cell death that can be activated in cancer cells by natural stimuli and synthetic agents. Three essential hallmarks define ferroptosis, namely:...
Issues and Challenges in VANET Routing Protocols

Intelligent transportation systems (ITS) are becoming more popular due to the demand for advanced cyber-physical systems and comfort applications and services needed for use in autonomous vehicles. Vehicular ad hoc Networks (VANETs) are an essential part of ITS, as they support vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure data communication. The performance of a VANET solely depends on the routing protocols in the network layer, which provide efficient and effective data communication. In this paper, we survey the most recent issues surrounding efficient routing protocols that are suitable for VANETs. We also address the pros and cons of these protocols in terms of scalability, quality of services, security and privacy, energy efficiency, transmission bandwidth limitation, and broadcasting issues.
Pilot Sensitivity to Simulator Flight Dynamics Model Formulation for Stall Training

A piloted simulation study was performed in the Cockpit Motion Facility at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Langley Research Center. The research was motivated by the desire to reduce the commercial transport airplane fatal accident rate due to in-flight loss of control. The purpose of this study, which focused on a generic T-tail transport airplane, was to assess pilot sensitivity to flight dynamics model formulation used during a simulator stall recognition and recovery training/demonstration profile. To accomplish this, the flight dynamics model was designed with many configuration options. The model options were based on recently acquired static and dynamic stability and control data from sources that included wind tunnel, water tunnel, and computational fluid dynamics. The results, which are specific to a transport airplane stall recognition and recovery guided demonstration scenario, showed the two most important aerodynamic effects (other than stick pusher) to model were stall roll- off and the longitudinal static stability characteristic associated with the pitch break.
Designing multifunctional woody polycultures according to landowner preferences in Central Illinois

Multifunctional woody polycultures (MWPs) are an alternative agricultural practice gaining interest in the U.S. Corn Belt as an option for combining agricultural production and conservation goals. MWPs integrate fruit, nut, timber, and/or bioenergy crops adjacent to annual crops. Previous studies revealed that landowners lack adequate information to make informed decisions regarding the adoption of MWPs. Following up on that work, this study engaged with 15 rural landowners in the Upper Sangamon River Watershed of Central Illinois to identify their design preferences, their information needs, and the adoption potential for MWPs. Landowner-specific designs were constructed based on three predefined alternative scenarios distinguished by their focus on: (1) production, (2) conservation, or (3) cultural functions. Two semi-structured interviews were conducted with landowners before and after the design process. Results from quantitative analysis and qualitative interpretation showed landowners preferred designs that integrated high levels of edible nuts and berries in an efficient, machine-harvestable arrangement. Nut-producing species, notably northern-adapted varieties of pecan (Carya illinoinensis), were the most preferred. The most influential motivators for the design and adoption of MWPs were utilizing high-value edible crops, improving pollinator and wildlife habitat, and increasing productivity of marginal land. While important, landowners felt these motivators still did not overcome limitations in the practical application of MWPs due to a lack of harvest machinery, of post-harvest processing facilities, and of accessible markets. The study findings demonstrate that a lack of reliable economic, marketing, and management information severely constrains the adoption potential of MWPs despite landowner interest in using MWPs on marginal lands.
Academic librarians’ educational factors and perceptions of teaching transformation: An exploratory examination

Abstract Objective – As information literacy instruction is an increasingly important function of academic librarianship, it is relevant to consider librarians’ attitudes about their teaching. More specifically, it can be instructive to consider how academic librarians with different educational backgrounds have developed their thinking about themselves as educators. Understanding the influences in how these shifts have happened can help librarians to explore the different supports and structures that enable them to experience such perspective transformation. Methods – The author electronically distributed a modified version of King’s (2009) Learning Activities Survey to academic librarians on three instruction-focused electronic mail lists. This instrument collected information on participants’ demographics, occurrence of perspective transformation around teaching, and perception of the factors that influenced said perspective transformation (if applicable). The author analyzed the data for those academic librarians who had experienced perspective transformation around their teaching identities to determine if statistically significant relationships existed between their education and the factors they reported as influencing this transformation. Results – Results demonstrated several statistically significant relationships and differences in the factors that academic librarians with different educational backgrounds cited as influential in their teaching-focused perspective transformation. Conclusion – This research offers a starting point for considering how to support different groups of librarians as they engage in information literacy instruction. The findings suggest that addressing academic librarians’ needs based on their educational levels (e.g., additional Master’s degrees, PhDs, or professional degrees) may help develop productive professional learning around instruction.
Effect of gradient microstructures on strengthening and toughening of AZ31

Abstract A designed gradient microstructure has the potential to enhance mechanical performance of materials. Severe shot peening was used to develop gradient microstructure in twin-roll cast AZ31. The resulting microstructure has four layers including recrystallized ultra-fine grains, a transient layer, deformed coarse grains containing a high fraction of tension twins, and the as-received structure in the metal interior (coarse grains). Each layer has a distinct feature to control yield/ultimate strength and ductility. Hence, various combinations of them lead to a unique performance. This study establishes a relationship between the microstructure, the hardening mechanism, and the tensile behavior of the gradient structure. A method was established to estimate the yield strength of the designed structure based on each layer hardness via a modified rule of mixtures. Tensile and microhardness measurements along with microstructures quantified by electron backscatter diffraction and optical microscopy were utilized to identify strengthening and toughening mechanisms. The optimized structure had a remarkable enhancement in both yield and ultimate tensile strength.
Citizen advisory boards in urban forestry: Who are members and why do they serve?

Abstract In many US cities, urban forest management efforts are commonly supported by citizen advisory groups, which are often generically referred to as “tree boards.” Very little is known about tree boards and the volunteers who serve on them; consequently, this study addresses this knowledge gap by investigating a sample of urban forestry tree boards that were part of the Arbor Day Foundation Tree City USA program. Surveys distributed to Tree City USA tree boards inquired about basic structure of the boards, demographics of the individuals who serve on them, and their motivations to serve. Results provided insights into what Tree City USA tree boards looked like and offered a profile of their typical board member. Compared to national demographic data, board member composition was considerably less diverse in race and ethnicity, indicating that these citizen advisory groups may not accurately represent the communities impacted by their decision-making. Survey responses indicated that the majority of tree board members were motivated to volunteer on their respective board because they were interested in the management of their urban forest. Additional analysis revealed that certified arborists and individuals in the natural resources profession were most likely to volunteer in order to gain career-related experience and opportunities when compared to non-certified arborists and individuals in different professions. Findings also suggest that volunteer motivations can be used to direct member recruitment, thereby improving effectiveness of community input in urban forest management.
Signaling in vascular endothelium by varying degrees of mechanical stretch

Mechanical ventilation remains an imperative treatment for the patients with ARDS, but can also exacerbate lung injury. We have previously characterized signaling pathways induced in vascular endothelium by high magnitude cyclic stretch (CS) and described a key role of RhoA GTPase in high CS-induced endothelial (EC) barrier dysfunction. This study tested a hypothesis that recovery of vascular EC barrier after pathologic mechanical stress may be accelerated by cell exposure to physiologic CS levels. Using biochemical, molecular, and imaging approaches we found that EC preconditioning at physiologically relevant low magnitude 4% CS promotes resealing of EC tight junctions disrupted by pathologic, high magnitude 18% CS. Moreover, the EC barrier recovery rate was higher in EC exposed to low CS vs. EC culture left at static conditions. Inhibitory analysis showed that low CS-induced tight junction remodeling was dependent on small GTPase Rap1. In a clinically-relevant two-hit model of EC exposed to bacterial particles followed by mechanical stimulation, low magnitude CS was also protective against deleterious effects by high magnitude CS. Using Rap1 knockout mice exposed to mechanical ventilation we found that protective effect of mechanical ventilation at low tidal volume against lung injury caused by i.t. injection of LPS and mechanical ventilation at high tidal volume was suppressed by molecular inhibition of Rap1, whereas administration of Rap1 activator significantly reduced parameters of ALI in the wild type group. Taken together our results demonstrate a prominent role of signaling mechanisms activated by low CS in stimulation of the Rap1-mediated acceleration of lung vascular EC barrier restoration.
Cascading Failure Attacks in the Power System

Electric power systems are critical infrastructure and are vulnerable to contingencies including natural disasters, system errors, malicious attacks, etc. These contingencies can affect the world’s economy and cause great inconvenience to our daily lives. Therefore, security of power systems has received enormous attention for decades. Cascading failures, one of the most serious problems in power systems, can result in catastrophic impacts such as massive blackouts. More importantly, it can be taken advantage by malicious attackers to launch physical or cyber attacks on the power system. In this chapter, we propose and investigate cascading failure attacks (CFAs) from a stochastic game perspective. In particular, we formulate a zero-sum stochastic attack/defense game for CFAs while considering the attack/defense costs, budget constraints, diverse load shedding costs, and dynamic states in the system. Then, we develop a Q-CFA learning algorithm that works efficiently in power systems without any a priori information. We also formally prove that the convergence of the proposed algorithm achieves a Nash equilibrium. Simulation results validate the efficacy and efficiency of the proposed scheme by comparisons with other state-of-the-art approaches.
Impact Load Identification for the DROPBEAR Setup Using a Finite Input Covariance (FIC) Estimator

Various applications in structural dynamics may require the real-time estimation of unknown input. A recently developed joint input-state estimator for linear systems treats the unknown input as white Gaussian noise with finite covariance. The performance of this finite input covariance (FIC) estimator is validated using simulated data from a finite element model of the Air Force Research Laboratory’s experimental testbed called the DROPBEAR (Dynamic Reproduction of Projectiles in Ballistic Environments for Advanced Research). The estimator performance is compared with a few well-known estimators, including the augmented Kalman filter (AKF) and the weighted least squares (WLS) estimators. The results show that the FIC estimator is capable of accurately estimating an impact load applied to the beam when acceleration is measured at a small number of locations. Additionally, the results show that the FIC estimator eliminates the low-frequency drift error that other well-known estimators are susceptible to.
What Peers, Educators, and Principals Say: The Social Validity of Inclusive, Comprehensive Literacy Instruction:

This social validity study accompanied a 9-month randomized control trial that investigated the efficacy of an emergent literacy program, Early Literacy Skills Builder (ELSB), delivered in general ...
Transverse mode-coupling instability and space charge

Transverse mode-coupling instability (TMCI) is known to limit bunch intensity. Since space charge (SC) changes coherent spectra, it affects the TMCI threshold. Generally, there are only two types of TMCI with respect to SC: the vanishing type and the strong space charge (SSC) type. For the former, the threshold value of the wake tune shift is asymptotically proportional to the SC tune shift, as it was first observed twenty years ago by M. Blaskiewicz for exponential wakes. For the latter, the threshold value of the wake tune shift is asymptotically inversely proportional to the SC, as it was shown by one of the authors. In the presented studies of various wakes, potential wells, and bunch distributions, the second type of instability was always observed for cosine wakes; it was also seen for the sine wakes in the case of a bunch within a square potential well. The vanishing TMCI was observed for all other wakes and distributions we discuss in this paper: always for the negative wakes, and always, except the cosine wake, for parabolic potential wells. At the end of this paper, we consider high-frequency broadband wake, suggested as a model impedance for CERN SPS ring. As expected, TMCI is of the vanishing type in this case. Thus, SPS Q26 instability, observed at strong SC almost with the same bunch parameters as it would be observed without SC, cannot be TMCI.
Locus coeruleus spiking differently correlates with S1 cortex activity and pupil diameter in a tactile detection task

We examined the relationships between activity in the locus coeruleus (LC), activity in the primary somatosensory cortex (S1), and pupil diameter in mice performing a tactile detection task. While LC spiking consistently preceded S1 membrane potential depolarization and pupil dilation, the correlation between S1 and pupil was more heterogeneous. Furthermore, the relationships between LC, S1, and pupil varied on timescales of sub-seconds to seconds within trials. Our data suggest that pupil diameter can be dissociated from LC spiking and cannot be used as a stationary index of LC activity.
Impact of dose, duration and host immune status on ultrashort telacebec treatment in a mouse model of Buruli ulcer

Telacebec (Q203) is a new anti-tuberculosis drug in clinical development with extremely potent activity againstMycobacterium ulcerans, the causative agent of Buruli ulcer (BU). The potency of Q203 has prompted investigation of its potential role in ultra-short, even single-dose, treatment regimens for BU in mouse models. However, the relationships of Q203 dose and duration and host immune status to treatment outcomes remain unclear, as does the risk of emergence of drug resistance with Q203 monotherapy. In the present study, immunocompetent BALB/c and immunocompromised SCID-beige mice were infected in both hind footpads and treated eight weeks later. In both mouse strains, controls received rifampin-clarithromycin; others received Q203 at 0.5 or 2 mg/kg/d for 5 or 10 days. Additionally, BALB/c mice received a single dose of 2.5 or 10 mg/kg or 3.3 mg/kg/d for 3 days. Treatment response was based on changes in footpad swelling and CFU counts at the end of treatment as well as 4 and 13 weeks after stopping treatment. Efficacy depended on total dose more than duration. Total doses of 5-20 mg/kg rendered nearly all BALB/c mice culture-negative 13 weeks post-treatment without selection of Q203-resistant bacteria. Although less potent in SCID-beige mice, Q203 still rendered the majority of footpads culture-negative at total doses of 10-20 mg/kg. However, Q203 resistance was identified in relapse isolates from some SCID-beige mice. Overall, these results support the potential of Q203 monotherapy for single-dose or other ultra-short therapy for BU, although highly immunocompromised hosts may require higher doses or durations and/or combination therapy.
Family Sacrifices: The Worldviews and Ethics of Chinese Americans

Russell M. Jeung, Seanan S. Fong, and Helen Jin Kim’s Family Sacrifices is a clear presentation of a complex phenomenon: Chinese American religious nones. In this sociological study, supplemented b...
Fungicide sensitivity of Colletotrichum species causing bitter rot of apple in the Mid-Atlantic United States.

Apple growers in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States have reported increased losses to bitter rot of apple. We tested the hypothesis that this increase is because the Colletotrichum population has developed resistance to commonly used single-mode-of-action (single-MoA) fungicides. We screened 220 Colletotrichum isolates obtained from 38 apple orchards in the Mid-Atlantic region for resistance to 11 fungicides in FRAC (Fungicide Resistance Action Committee) groups 1, 7, 9, 11, 12, and 29. Eleven (5%) of these isolates were resistant to FRAC group 1 with confirmed beta-tubulin E198A mutations, and two (< 1%) were also resistant to FRAC group 11 with confirmed cytochrome-b G143A mutations. Such low frequencies of resistant isolates indicate that fungicide resistance is unlikely to be the cause of any regional increase in bitter rot. A subsample of isolates was subsequently tested in vitro for sensitivity to every single-MoA fungicide registered for apple in the Mid-Atlantic US (22 fungicides; FRAC groups 1, 3, 7, 9, 11, 12, and 29), and thirteen fungicides were tested in field trials. These fungicides varied widely in efficacy both within and between FRAC groups. Comparisons of results from our in vitro tests with results from our field trials and other field trials conducted across the Eastern US suggested that EC₂₅ values (concentrations that reduce growth by 25%) are better predictors of fungicide efficacy in normal field conditions than EC₅₀ values. We present these results as a guideline for choosing single-MoA fungicides for bitter rot control in the Mid-Atlantic US.
The Effect of Oxidation on the Electrical Properties of Organic Conjugated Polymers

Neutral conjugated polymers, having extended π electron systems, are either semiconducting as in the case of trans-polyacetylene (CH)x or insulating as in the case of poly(phenylene vinylene). Controlled oxidation (doping) of these materials can cause an increase of the electrical conductivity by up to 14 orders of magnitude to values comparable with some metals. This oxidation can be carried out either chemically (I2, AsF5, Fe(ClO4)3) or electrochemically(LiClO4, LiAsF6 electrolyte) leaving I3 -, AsF6 -, or ClO4 - as counterions. A study of the electrical conductivity, thermopower, EPR and temperature dependence of conductivity indicates that trans-(CH)x undergoes a semiconductor to, “metal” transition at a dopant level of approximately 0.5 mole %.
Comparison of method of conception in fetuses undergoing echocardiography at a tertiary referral center.

Objectives We compared the proportion of conception with and without in vitro fertilization (IVF) in fetuses with and without congenital heart disease (CHD). Methods This was a retrospective review of fetal echocardiograms at Columbia University from 2007 to 2010, to identify the mode of conception. Results Echocardiography was performed on 2828 fetuses, and 2761 (97.6%) had the method of conception documented. CHD was diagnosed in 22.4%, consisting predominantly of complex CHD. The proportion of IVF conception was lower in fetuses with CHD (6.9% CHD vs 10.3% no CHD, OR = 0.65 [95% CI 0.46–0.92], p = 0.01). IVF fetuses were conceived by elder mothers and were more likely part of a multiple gestation than those without IVF. In a multivariate model controlling for maternal age and multiple gestation, IVF was not associated with CHD diagnosis (OR = 1.1 [95% CI 0.77–1.7], p = 0.51). Conclusion At a tertiary referral center, fetuses with CHD were not more likely to be conceived by IVF after controlling for maternal age and multiple gestation. These results differ from those of several previous reports, which may be related to our study population, and the exclusion of isolated atrial shunts and patent ductus arteriosus, which are normal fetal findings. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surgical-orthodontic correction of mandibular deficiency in growing children: Long term treatment results

Summary Surgical correction of mandibular deficiency has traditionally been delayed until after growth completion. On the basis of available research data on facial growth in the skeletal Class II populace, and our experience with facial fractures in children, we found no scientific reason to delay surgical correction of mandibular deficiency in growing children. Six years ago we began the surgical correction of mandibular deficiency in select cases during active growth using the modified sagittal split osteotomy. Twelve actively growing children, ages 8 to 16 years were evaluated with post surgical follow up periods ranging from 2 years 2 months to 5 years 7 months. Computerized morphometric analysis were done on the cepholometric radiographs taken pre-surgically, during intermaxillary fixation, 3 months following surgery and at various other post operative intervals to assess surgical results, relapse, and subsequent facial growth. Average advancement was 5.4 mm, average relapse was less than 5% of the amount of advancement, and facial growth following surgery was harmonious in all cases. All patients received thorough long-term post-operative clinical and radiographic examinations. All twelve patients had normal incisal opening (average 45.6 mm) and good excursive and protrusive movements. There was no mental nerve dysfunction at the longest recall examination in any of the 12 patients. No pathological radiographic changes were observed in any of the temporomandibular joints. Mandibular advancements can be safely and successfully performed in actively growing patients with expected harmonious growth between the maxilla and mandible.
Membranes of Bacillus stearothermophilus: Factors Affecting Protoplast Stability and Thermostability of Alkaline Phosphatase and Reduced Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Oxidase

Protoplasts of Bacillus stearothermophilus NCA 1503-4R are resistant to osmotic rupture and are not sensitive to mechanical manipulation. Protoplast stability is maintained by divalent cations. The thermostability of protoplasts is enhanced when the cells are grown at elevated temperatures. The membrane content of the cell and the protein-to-lipid ratio of the membrane increases as the growth temperature is increased. The membrane-bound nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (reduced form) oxidase system from cultures grown at 70 C was more thermostable than the same enzyme system from cultures grown at 55 C. Alkaline phosphatase was resistant to thermal inactivation in the intact protoplast. The extent of this protection is dependent on protoplast stability.