cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A dissipated pseudo strain energy-based failure criterion for thermal cracking and its verification using thermal stress restrained specimen tests

Abstract Low-temperature cracking is one of the most prevalent types of distress in asphalt concrete pavements in regions where the air temperature undergoes a significant daily drop. This paper proposes a failure criterion that correlates the dissipated pseudo strain energy (DPSE) at the time of failure with the reduced strain rate. Uniaxial direct tension monotonic tests, axial compression dynamic modulus tests, and direct tension cyclic fatigue tests were performed using the Asphalt Mixture Performance Tester (AMPT) for a wide range of asphalt mixtures with different reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) contents, binder contents, virgin binder performance grades, and aging levels. The results show that the simplified viscoelastic continuum damage (S-VECD) model, which is characterized by the dynamic modulus and cyclic fatigue test results, can predict the stress-strain behavior of a given mixture subjected to monotonic tests at different temperatures and loading rates. This finding allows the prediction of DPSE in monotonic tension tests using the S-VECD model. The thermal stress restrained specimen test (TSRST) was then used to verify the DPSE-based failure criterion and the ability of the S-VECD model to predict thermal fracture behavior. The study results show that the predicted fracture temperatures match the measured ones for the study mixtures with reasonable accuracy. The study also used data from mixtures whose RAP contents, binder contents, virgin binder grades, and aging levels were systematically altered to verify the reasonableness of the proposed procedure to evaluate the differences in thermal fracture performance that are due to changes in these factors. The ability to predict the fracture stress and fracture temperature measured via the TSRST using the S-VECD model and the suggested DPSE failure criterion is of substantial practical and technical importance because it allows the prediction of both fatigue cracking and thermal cracking using a single set of tests, i.e., AMPT dynamic modulus and cyclic fatigue tests.
Deconvolution of Hot Carrier and Cold Carrier Injection in ZnO TFTs

Positive bias instability stress (PBI) and hot carrier injection stress (HCI) was done on ZnO thin-film transistors (TFTs) with 100°C Al 2 O 3 . The threshold voltage (V T ), transconductance (g m ), and subthreshold slope (SS) were monitored. HCI stress with two intermittent sense measurements where the first I DS -V GS is measured at the drain contact and the second is measured at the source contact to separate the contribution of the hot carrier and cold carrier injection on the V T shift. PBI stress was done to determine the viability of the carrier injection separation using only HCI.
Staphylococcus epidermidis Boosts Innate Immune Response by Activation of Gamma Delta T Cells and Induction of Perforin-2 in Human Skin

Perforin-2 (P-2) is an antimicrobial protein with unique properties to kill intracellular bacteria. Gamma delta (GD) T cells, as the major T cell population in epithelial tissues, play a central role in protective and pathogenic immune responses in the skin. However, the tissue-specific mechanisms that control the innate immune response and the effector functions of GD T cells, especially the cross-talk with commensal organisms, are not very well understood. We hypothesized that the most prevalent skin commensal microorganism, Staphylococcus epidermidis, may play a role in regulating GD T cell-mediated cutaneous responses. We analyzed antimicrobial protein P-2 expression in human skin at a single cell resolution using an amplified fluorescence in situ hybridization approach to detect P-2 mRNA in combination with immunophenotyping. We show that S. epidermidis activates GD T cells and upregulates P-2 in human skin ex vivo in a cell-specific manner. Furthermore, P-2 upregulation following S. epidermidis stimulation correlates with increased ability of skin cells to kill intracellular Staphylococcus aureus. Our findings are the first to reveal that skin commensal bacteria induce P-2 expression, which may be utilized beneficially to modulate host innate immune responses and protect from skin infections.
Low Cost Carbon Fiber as Potential Lightning Strike Protection for Wind Turbine Blades

Until recently, glass fiber composites (GFRP) were the preferred choice to prepare wind turbine blades due to their low cost compared to their counterpart carbon fiber composites (CFRP). However, to harvest the maximum wind energy, ever larger wind turbine blades are being manufactured. To support such a large structure carbon fiber composites CFRP have become the integral part of load bearing structures in the blade. In this work, we are proposing to utilize the low cost carbon fiber (LCCF), manufactured at Carbon Fiber Technology Facility (CFTF) of Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) as not only the cost effective alternative to the currently used carbon fiber (CF) but also as the lightning strike protection of the wind turbine blades. A textile-grade precursor was used to prepare LCCF. Wind turbines often get hit by lightning strikes due to their operating locations. LCCF can provide structural integrity to these gigantic structures and mitigate the effect of lightning strike on them by effectively dissipating the current. Two composite panels made of LCCF were tested against artificial lightning strikes of 100 kA and 200 kA (component A of lightning
"Value in diversity": School racial and ethnic composition, teacher diversity, and school punishment

American schools have become increasingly punitive and characterized by racial and ethnic disparities in punishment outcomes. Scholarship on the causes and consequences of this shift has highlighted the potential salience of school context. The current study extends this work by exploring the potential effect of an underexplored factor, teacher diversity, on suspension disparities. To date, explorations of the role of teacher diversity have been limited to its impact on academic outcomes, teacher perceptions, and behavioral outcomes. The current study fills a void in the existing literature by examining (1) whether greater teacher diversity is associated with reductions in racial and ethnic suspension disparities and (2) whether greater teacher diversity interacts with the size of the racial and ethnic student population to influence suspension disparities. This study contributes to the existing literature by extending the "value in diversity" perspective to the school setting. Additionally, the findings suggest that racial and ethnic diversity in positions of authority in the school setting fosters a more equitable approach to the administration of student punishment.
Large scale geometry of negatively curved ℝn ⋊ ℝ

We classify all negatively curved R n A R up to quasi-isometry. We show that all quasi-isometries between such manifolds (except when they are bilipschitz to the real hyperbolic spaces) are almost similarities. We prove these results by studying the quasisymmetric maps on the ideal boundary of these manifolds. 20F65, 30C65; 53C20
Software Define Radio in Realizing the Intruding UAS Group Behavior Prediction

With the advancement of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, UAV swarm has been showing its great security threats towards the ground facility. With current technologies, it is still challenging in unknown UAV swarm tracking and neutralization. In this paper, we propose an analytical method in predicting drone flying behavior based on the machine learning algorithm, which could be integrated into swarm behavior prediction. Radiofrequency (RF) signals emitted from the UAV are captured by software-defined radio (SDR) to form the time series data. By using conventional short-time Fourier transform (STFT), a time-frequency spectrum revealing the RF data energy distribution is obtained for analyzing the signal variance pattern formed by the two different types of UAV flying trajectory. The transformed time-frequency domain matrix would be applied in multiple machine learning classifier for telling the difference of different flying trajectory. The results present the applicability of using machine learning in predicting the flying features and modes of intruding UAV swarm. It shows the potential application of this method in realizing effective UAV swarm negation.
Adolescents’ and emerging adults’ judgments and justifications for social inclusion or exclusion of language-outgroup members: Language is just part of the story:

Language becomes an important intergroup category for children from early on in their lives; however, few studies have examined the role language plays in social inclusion and exclusion. This study...
LMO7-dependent apical constriction requires the binding of the Myosin heavy chain

The reduction of the apical domain, or apical constriction, is a process that occurs in a single cell or is coordinated in a group of cells in the epithelium. Coordinated apical constriction is particularly important when the epithelium is undergoing dynamic morphogenetic events such as furrow or tube formation. However, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here we show that Lim only protein 7 (Lmo7) is a novel activator of apical constriction in the Xenopus superficial ectoderm, which coordinates actomyosin contractility in a group of cells during epithelial morphogenesis. Like other apical constriction regulators, Lmo7 requires the activation of the Rho-Rock-Myosin II pathway to induce apical constriction. However, instead of increasing the phosphorylation of myosin light chain (MLC), Lmo7 binds muscle myosin II heavy chain A (NMIIA) and increases its association with actomyosin bundles at adherens junctions (AJs). Lmo7 overexpression modulates the subcellular distribution of Wtip, a tension marker at AJs, suggesting that Lmo7 generates mechanical forces at AJs. We propose that Lmo7 increases actomyosin contractility at AJs by promoting the formation of actomyosin bundles.
Autonomy and Ethical Modes of the Doctor-Patient Relationship

We have argued evidence from medicine and medical psychology shows that the nature of disease's impact on persons is a wholesale disruption of the characteristics we normally associate with personal integrity. This cascade of disruption has been explored in Chapter 2 and in earlier publications (Bergsma, Thomasma 1982). Additionally, literature on the concepts of health and disease rarely pays attention to the multi-leveled impact of disease on persons. Rather, the arguments regarding the evaluative nature of concepts of disease, substantial or functional, usually neglect the social and personal context in which illness arises and proceeds (Nordenfelt 1995).
Pharmacologic evidence for cholinergic mechanisms in neocortical and limbic activating systems.

Publisher Summary This chapter highlights the pharmacologic evidence for cholinergic mechanisms in neocortical and limbic activating systems. On the basis of pharmacologic evidence there is little doubt of the important role of cholinergic mechanisms in cerebral function, although the intimate details are far from clear. Four predominantly muscarinic (m) cholinergic agonists (acetylcholine, arecoline, pilocarpine, and physostigmine) and two nicotinic ganglionic (n) cholinergic agonists (DMPP and nicotine) were studied on the awake-sleep cycle of cats. The animals had chronic indwelling brain electrodes in various neocortical and limbic areas. The effects of these compounds were compared before and after the following m and n cholinergic antagonists: atropine, methyl atropine, mecamylamine and trimethidinium. Another pharmacological approach to studying central cholinergic mechanisms was with the drug hemicholinium (HC-3) which decreases acetylcholine synthesis by interfering with choline transport. Acute dog preparations were used to study the effects of HC-3.
Using Rasch measurement to score, evaluate, and improve examinations in an anatomy course.

Any examination that involves moderate to high stakes implications for examinees should be psychometrically sound and legally defensible. Currently, there are two broad and competing families of test theories that are used to score examination data. The majority of instructors outside the high-stakes testing arena rely on classical test theory (CTT) methods. However, advances in item response theory software have made the application of these techniques much more accessible to classroom instructors. The purpose of this research is to analyze a common medical school anatomy examination using both the traditional CTT scoring method and a Rasch measurement scoring method to determine which technique provides more robust findings, and which set of psychometric indicators will be more meaningful and useful for anatomists looking to improve the psychometric quality and functioning of their examinations. Results produced by the more robust and meaningful methodology will undergo a rigorous psychometric validation process to evaluate construct validity. Implications of these techniques and additional possibilities for advanced applications are also discussed. Anat Sci Educ 7: 450–460. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists.
Hox Genes: Embryonic Development

Four clustered gene complexes of DNA-binding transcriptional regulators known as the Hox genes are the principal directors of embryonic development of the basic body structures (head, trunk and limbs). Keywords: Hox; homeodomain; homeobox; patterning; PBC; evolution; transgenic; embryo; development
Thermal spray deposition and evaluation of low-Z coatings

Thermally sprayed low-Z coatings of B{sub 4}C on Al substrates were investigated as candidate materials for first-wall reactor protective surfaces. Comparisons were made to thermally sprayed coatings of B, MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}, Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}, and composites. Graded bond layers were applied to mitigate coefficient of thermal expansion mismatch. Microstructures, thermal diffusivity before and after thermal shock loading, steel ball impact resistance, CO{sub 2} pellet cleaning and erosion tolerance, phase content, stoichiometry by Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, and relative tensile strengths were measured.
Increasing processor performance through early register release

Modern superscalar microprocessors need sizable register files to support large number of in-flight instructions for exploiting ILP. An alternative to building large register files is to use smaller number of registers, but manage them more effectively. More efficient management of registers can also result in higher performance if the reduction of the register file size is not the goal. Traditional register file management mechanisms deallocate a physical register only when the next instruction with the same destination architectural register commits. We propose two complementary techniques for deallocating the register immediately after the instruction producing the register's value commits itself, without waiting for the commitment of the next instruction with the same destination. Our design relies on the use of a checkpointed register file (CRF), where a local shadow copy of each bitcell is used to temporarily save the early deallocated register values should they be needed to recover from branch mispredictions or to reconstruct the precise state after exceptions or interrupts. The proposed techniques outperform the previously proposed schemes for early deallocation of registers. For the register-constrained datapath configurations, our techniques result in up to 35% performance increase with 23.3% increase on the average across SPEC2000 benchmarks.
Cell Biology of Copper

The transition metal, copper (Cu), is an essential micronutrient for normal plant growth and development. Copper is a cofactor of proteins involved in photosynthesis, respiration, ethylene perception, removal of superoxide radicals, and cell wall modification. The biochemical reactions catalyzed by most Cu enzymes in plants are known. However, in many cases we are not yet sure about the biological function of these Cu proteins. Copper delivery to Cu proteins has evolved with a set of evolutionarily conserved transporters and metallo-chaperones. Analysis of Cu transporter and metallo-chaperone loss of function mutants has increased our understanding of the localization and biological function of many Cu delivery mechanisms and target Cu proteins. Studies examining the regulation of Cu transporters, metallo-chaperones, and Cu proteins have revealed an elegant system to regulate Cu homeostasis. Copper in excess is toxic while Cu deficiency can lead to decreased photosynthetic activity and reproductive success. To avoid Cu deficiency or toxicity symptoms in a sub-optimal environment, plants are capable of directing Cu delivery based on their needs via regulation of Cu proteins and delivery systems. For many Cu proteins, a network of Cu microRNAs, under the control of a SPL7 transcription factor, orchestrates the prioritization of Cu delivery based on Cu availability.
A simple soft-detector for the BLAST system

The BLAST (Bell-Labs' layered space-time) system is a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) system that can be used to increase the wireless transmission data rate without increasing the total transmission power or bandwidth. In practice, forward error correction (FEC) codes, such as the convolutional code, are often used to lower the bit-error-rate (BER) drastically. We propose a simple soft-detector for QAM constellations based on the unstructured least-squares approach to obtain the soft-information for the Viterbi convolutional decoder. This soft-detector is very simple since it decouples a multi-dimensional QAM symbol detection into multiple one-dimensional QAM symbol detections. Simulation results show that the performance of our soft-decision algorithm can outperform that of the hard-decision sphere decoding algorithm. Yet our algorithm is computationally much more efficient than the latter.
Post-fire aspen seedling recruitment across the Yellowstone (USA) Landscape

Landscape patterns of quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) seedling occurrence and abundance were studied after a rare recruitment event following the 1988 fires in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA. Belt transects (1 to 17 km in length, 4 m width) along 18 foot trails were surveyed for aspen seedlings on the subalpine plateau of the Park, along gradients of elevation and geologic substrate, during the summer of 1996. Aspen seedling presence and density were characterized as a function of elevation, geologic substrate, slope, aspect, vegetation/cover type, presence of burned forest, and distance to nearest adult aspen stand. Presence of aspen seedlings was best predicted by the incidence of burned forest and proximity to adult aspen; aspen seedlings were only found in burned forest and were more likely to occur closer to adult aspen clones. When tested against independent data collected in 1997, the logistic regression model for aspen seedling presence performed well (overall accuracy = 73%, Taup = 0.41). When present, variation in aspen seedling density at local scales (≤ 200 m) was largely explained by elevation, with higher densities observed at lower elevations. At broad scales (> 1 km), seedling density was a function of cover type, elevation, aspect, slope, and burn severity, with greater seedling density in more severely burned forested habitats on southerly, shallow slopes at lower elevations. Aspen seedling densities ranged from 0 to 46,000 seedlings/ha with a median density of 2,000/ha on sites where they occurred. Aspen seedlings were most abundant in the south central and southwest central regions of the park, approximately an order of magnitude less abundant in the southeast region, and nearly absent in the north central area. Establishment of new aspen stands on Yellowstone's subalpine plateau would represent a substantial change in the landscape. However, the long-term fate of these postfire aspen seedlings is not known.
Simulating MATLAB system models in PSpice

This paper describes a new technique to simulate MATLAB system models in PSpice environment. The algorithmic component of the design is developed using MATLAB, and then exported to a C-model which can be read and simulated by PSpice using its newly developed PSpice Device Modeling Interface (DMI). The paper describes in detail the changes required to make the MATLAB C-Model compatible with PSpice device modeling requirements. Once circuit simulations using PSpice are signed-off, the algorithmic module can be targeted to FPGA, SOC or PCB for implementation.
Computation of the asymptotic bias and variance for simulation of Markov reward models

The asymptotic bias and variance are important determinants of the quality of a simulation run. In particular, the asymptotic bias can be used to approximate the bias introduced by starting the collection of a measure in a particular state distribution, and the asymptotic variance can be used to compute the simulation time required to obtain, a statistically significant estimate of a measure. While both of these measures can be computed analytically for simple models and measures, e.g., the average buffer occupancy of an M/G/1 queue, practical computational methods have not been developed for general model classes. Such results would be useful since they would provide insight into the simulation time required for particular systems and measures and the bias introduced by a particular initial state distribution. We discuss the numerical computation of the asymptotic bias and variance of measures derived from continuous-time Markov reward models. In particular, we show how both measures together can be efficiently computed by solving two systems of linear equations. As a consequence of this formulation, we are able to numerically compute the asymptotic bias and variance of measures defined on very large and irregular Markov reward models. To illustrate this point, we apply the developed algorithm to queues with complex traffic behavior, different service time distributions, and several alternative scheduling disciplines that may be typically encountered in nodes in high-speed communication networks.
Cigarette craving is associated with blunted reward processing in nicotine-dependent smokers

a b s t r a c t Background: Dysfunctional reward processing leading to the undervaluation of non-drug rewards is hypothesized to play a crucial role in nicotine dependence. However, it is unclear if blunted reward responsivity and the desire to use nicotine are directly linked after a brief period of abstinence. Such an association would suggest that individuals with reduced reward responsivity may be at increased risk to experience nicotine craving. Methods: Reward function was evaluated with a probabilistic reward task (PRT), which measures reward responsivity to monetary incentives. To identify whether smoking status influenced reward function, PRT performance was compared between non-depressed, nicotine-dependent smokers and non-smokers. Within smokers, correlations were conducted to determine if blunted reward responsivity on the PRT was associated with increased nicotine craving. Time since last nicotine exposure was standardized to 4 h for all smokers. Results: Smokers and non-smokers did not differ in reward responsivity on the PRT. However, within smokers, a significant negative correlation was found between reward responsivity and intensity of nicotine craving. Conclusions: The current findings show that, among smokers, the intensity of nicotine craving is linked to lower sensitivity to non-drug rewards. This finding is in line with prior theories that suggest reward dysfunction in some clinical populations (e.g., depressive disorders, schizophrenia) may facilitate nicotine use. The current study expands on such theories by indicating that sub-clinical variations in reward function are related to motivation for nicotine use. Identifying smokers who show blunted sensitivity to non-drug rewards may help guide treatments aimed at mitigating the motivation to smoke.
Incidence of bladder neck contracture after robot-assisted laparoscopic and open radical prostatectomy.

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4 OBJECTIVE To evaluate the incidence and risk factors for bladder neck contracture (BNC) in men treated with robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) and open radical prostatectomy (ORP), as BNC is a well-described complication of ORP and may be partially attributable to technique. PATIENTS AND METHODS The University of California San Francisco Urologic Oncology Database was queried for patients undergoing RALP or ORP from 2002 to 2008. Patient demographics, prostate cancer-specific information, surgical data, and follow-up were collected. For each surgical approach, multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression was performed to evaluate associations of demographics and clinical characteristics with BNC. Time to BNC after RP was evaluated using life table and Kaplan–Meier methods. RESULTS From 2002 to 2008, 988 patients underwent RP as primary treatment and had at least 12 months of follow-up. Of these men, 695 underwent ORP and 293 underwent RALP. The mean (sd) age was 59.3 (6.80) years and 91% of men were Caucasian. D’Amico risk groups at diagnosis were low (38%), intermediate (38%), and high (24%). The BNC incidence was 2.2% (22 cases) overall, 1.4% (four) for RALP, and 2.6% (18) for ORP (P= 0.12). Patients with BNC were diagnosed a median (range) of 4.7 (1–15) months after surgery. At 18 months after surgery, the BNC-free rate was 97% for ORP and 99% for RALP (log-rank P= 0.13). The most common presenting complaint was slow stream, followed by urinary retention. In Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, earlier year of surgery, older age at diagnosis and higher PSA level at diagnosis were significantly associated with BNC among ORP patients. In the RALP group, none of the covariates were associated with BNC. CONCLUSIONS The overall incidence of BNC was low in both RALP and ORP groups. Technical factors such as enhanced magnification and a running bladder anastomosis may explain the lower BNC incidence in the RALP group.
High-radix CORDIC for vector rotation with pipelined FPGA implementation

We present a new, mixed-radix (radix-4/radix-2) CORDIC algorithm for vector rotation and an efficient, pipelined implementation in Atmel's AT40K technology. Using only 3 radix-4 stages and one radix-2 stage, a sample rotator using this new algorithm achieves in 4 clock cycles the same accuracy that a conventional (radix-2) rotator would achieve in 7 cycles, while each cycle is almost the same speed as that of a conventional rotator. This sample rotator attains 12 bits of accuracy externally, while internally 17 bits of accuracy is kept. This rotator fits in an AT40K30, and has a worst-case delay of up to 55.9 ns per stage (speed level 2) and a typical delay of 35 ns including output buffers. CORDIC rotators can be used to improve the efficiency of many important DSP functions such as transforms, modulation and demodulation, motion sensing and control, and image processing.
PULSE-SMART: Pulse-Based Arrhythmia Discrimination Using a Novel Smartphone Application

Automated Arrhythmia Discrimination Using a SmartphoneBackground Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common and dangerous rhythm abnormality. Smartphones are increasingly used for mobile health applications by older patients at risk for AF and may be useful for AF screening. Objectives To test whether an enhanced smartphone app for AF detection can discriminate between sinus rhythm (SR), AF, premature atrial contractions (PACs), and premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). Methods We analyzed two hundred and nineteen 2-minute pulse recordings from 121 participants with AF (n = 98), PACs (n = 15), or PVCs (n = 15) using an iPhone 4S. We obtained pulsatile time series recordings in 91 participants after successful cardioversion to sinus rhythm from preexisting AF. The PULSE-SMART app conducted pulse analysis using 3 methods (Root Mean Square of Successive RR Differences; Shannon Entropy; Poincare plot). We examined the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive accuracy of the app for AF, PAC, and PVC discrimination from sinus rhythm using the 12-lead EKG or 3-lead telemetry as the gold standard. We also administered a brief usability questionnaire to a subgroup (n = 65) of app users. Results The smartphone-based app demonstrated excellent sensitivity (0.970), specificity (0.935), and accuracy (0.951) for real-time identification of an irregular pulse during AF. The app also showed good accuracy for PAC (0.955) and PVC discrimination (0.960). The vast majority of surveyed app users (83%) reported that it was “useful” and “not complex” to use. Conclusion A smartphone app can accurately discriminate pulse recordings during AF from sinus rhythm, PACs, and PVCs.
Estrogen-independent activation of the receptor protein of calf uterine cytosol

Abstract Precipitation of the estrogen receptor protein of calf uterine cytosol by ammonium sulfate at 2°C, either in the presence or absence of estradiol, is accompanied by its conversion from native (3. 8 S) to a transformed (5. 5 S) state. This product, complexed with estradiol, resembles that previously obtained, either by warming uterine cytosol with estradiol or by extracting nuclei from hormone-treated uteri, in its ability to bind to uterine nuclei and to increase their RNA polymerase activity. The transformed protein, uncomplexed with steroid, also stimulates RNA synthesis, supporting the hypothesis that receptor transformation, effected physiologically by the hormone, plays a key role in estrogen action.
Transformation of the Relationship: The Experience of Primary Support Persons of Stroke Survivors

The primary support persons (PSPs) of stroke survivors are faced with many challenges as they help reintegrate the stroke survivor's life, as well as their own. Because it often is the PSP with whom nurses negotiate goals, teach, and counsel, it is important for nurses to understand the stroke experience from the PSP's perspective. The purpose of this study was to investigate the quality, or nature, of life as experienced by PSPs of stroke survivors. The qualitative design for this study was an existential-phenomenological approach, focusing on meaning. This involved an analysis of in-depth phenomenological interviews of 10 PSPs of stroke survivors. The experience of being a PSP of a stroke survivor is one grounded in the relationship in time. From this ground emerges themes of fragility, vigilance, and loss/responsibility. These themes help define the essence of the experience, which is a transformation of the relationship. The findings provide nurses with an understanding of the PSP's experience, and thus a foundation upon which to provide holistic care for the stroke survivor and family.
High-temperature oxidation behavior of iridium-based alumina-forming ternary intermetallics

The oxidation behavior of iridium-based intermetallics in the ternary iridium-aluminum-silicon system has been investigated. Additions of up to 20 at. % silicon to iridium-aluminum binary alloys reduce the aluminum concentration necessary for the formation of a protective alumina scale from greater than 55 at.% in the absence of silicon to as low as 20 at.% when 20 at.% silicon is present. Ternary iridium-aluminum-silicon alloys with 30–50 at.% aluminum and 8–10 at.% silicon exhibit parabolic oxidation behavior, and the rate constants are in good agreement with those previously determined for binary iridium-aluminum alloys. The oxidation rate of ternary iridium-aluminum-silicon alloys with 10 at.% silicon and 30–40 at.% aluminum deviates from the parabolic-oxidation behavior for alumina scale growth in the later oxidation stage, presumably due to the formation of a silica inner layer. Thermal cycling of the Ir-50 Al-8Si and Ir-60-Al samples does not result in scale spallation due to the coefficient of thermal expansion match between the alumina scale and intermetallic substrate.
Result of treatment of patients with stage D1 prostatic carcinoma

Between 1972 and 1982, 59 patients who had documented pelvic lymph node metastases, proved by pelvic lymphadenectomy, were available for analysis. Radical retropubic prostatectomy was the primary treatment in 33 patients with or without other therapies, while 23 patients received external beam radiation therapy as their primary treatment. Three patients received hormonal therapy alone. Forty-two of 59 patients are alive for a crude survival of 71 per cent. Sixteen patients have died of metastases. Patients with low-grade tumors, small tumor burden, and limited lymph node metastases had excellent short-term survival after radical prostatectomy.
Randomized algorithms for optimizing large join queries

Query optimization for relational database systems is a combinatorial optimization problem, which makes exhaustive search unacceptable as the query size grows. Randomized algorithms, such as Simulated Annealing (SA) and Iterative Improvement (II), are viable alternatives to exhaustive search. We have adapted these algorithms to the optimization of project-select-join queries. We have tested them on large queries of various types with different databases, concluding that in most cases SA identifies a lower cost access plan than II. To explain this result, we have studied the shape of the cost function over the solution space associated with such queries and we have conjectured that it resembles a 'cup' with relatively small variations at the bottom. This has inspired a new Two Phase Optimization algorithm, which is a combination of Simulated Annealing and Iterative Improvement. Experimental results show that Two Phase Optimization outperforms the original algorithms in terms of both output quality and running time.
Metallomics study in CSF for putative biomarkers to predict cerebral vasospasm

Cerebral vasospasm (CV) refers to physical narrowing of brain cerebral arteries due to over-contraction of the arterial wall, which often arises following a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). CV is frequently associated with poorer outcomes in those patients. Between the ictus of SAH and its CV complication, there is a 3–7 days delay, which provides a time window to predict and possibly prevent the onset CV. Since the precise pathomechanism of CV is still unclear and approaches for predicting it are inefficient, more effective ways of predicting CV need to be developed. As a protective nourishing fluid flows through the subarachnoid space, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) closely relates to the health states of the central nervous system (CNS). Analysis of CSF can provide invaluable information to diagnose, treat and prevent diseases of the CNS because of its relatively direct representation of events in the brain. Therefore, we assume that the components in CSF and their alterations may reflect the state of aneurismal SAH and the development of vasospasm. In this study, three types of CSF from healthy control, and patients who suffered SAH and its complication, CV, were investigated via two-dimensional separations in combination with elemental and molecular mass spectrometry detection for the identification of elemental species. Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) was initially used with selective metal detection by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) for characterizing size distribution of metal species. Various molecular distribution patterns were exhibited at different metal detection points (Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb). Further identification of possible metallopeptides and metalloprotein in tryptic digested fractions from the three sample types were made via reverse phase (RP)-Chip and electrospray mass spectrometry (MS) in combination with the Spectrum Mill data base search engine accessing appropriate data bases. Comparisons were generated to show suggested protein similarities or differences across the three CSF sample types. Six protein families with possible protein markers were further identified, and may be considered as possible focus areas for discovering valuable biomarkers to preclude the debilitating or deadly vasospasm.
Analysis of the electrically stimulated acoustic-wave method for observing space charge in semi-insulating films.

The electrically stimulated acoustic-wave (ESAW) method for observing resident space charge in dielectric insulators has been used to characterize the poling behavior of millimeter-thick samples of polymeric insulation. The principle involves applying a voltage pulse across a material containing space charge and recording the exiting stress-wave signal by means of a piezoelectric transducer. This is a noninvasive technique and may be performed, in situ, during any space-charge-generating experiment. This method is able to detect space charge with a figure of merit equal to the sensitivity times the resolution of 130 pC/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$, and, to our knowledge, is the lowest reported for any nondestructive space-charge-profiling technique.
Estrogen replacement and cognition in postmenopausal women: effect of years since menopause on response to treatment

The use of estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) to treat or prevent cognitive changes has become highly controversial in the past several years. Recent studies have suggested that participant age might play an important role in clinical response to estrogen. Specifically, previous studies have suggested that the age of participants might be a critical factor in drug response in that younger or more recently postmenopausal women might benefit more than older women and might help to explain conflicting results of other studies. In the present study, we used a randomized, placebo-controlled design and a transdermal estrogen preparation composed of 17-beta estradiol. Twenty depressed subjects and 17 age-matched nondepressed control subjects were tested. A neuropsychological battery was administered at baseline and after completion of the 10-week trial, and test scores were grouped into four composite scores using psychometric techniques. Baseline to follow-up change was analyzed using repeated measures analysis of covariance. Results indicate that, while little overall beneficial effect of estrogen was found, years since menopause was significantly related to change in executive functioning in the estrogen group, but not the placebo group. Thus, more recently postmenopausal women demonstrated greater positive change than older women. This finding occurred in both the depressed sample and the control subjects. These results suggest that reproductive events are related to the clinical response to ERT, and that it might be worthwhile re-analyzing results of prior studies with this variable in mind. Drug Dev. Res. 66:150–159, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Behcet's-like Syndrome Associated with Idiopathic CD4+ T-Lymphocytopenia, Opportunistic Infections, and a Large Population of TCRɑβ+ CD4-CD8-T Cells

Abstract Herein we report a patient with Behfet’slike syndrome, idiopathic CD4+ T- lymphocytopenia, opportunistic infections, and a large polyclonal population of TCRaj8+ CD4“ CD8- T cells. Microfluorimetric analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells revealed CD4+ T-cell counts of 10 ± 5/mm3. The CD3+ T cells were 99% TCRa/T, of which 74 ± 5% were CD4- CD8-. No clonal populations were detected by southern analysis for T-cell receptor V($ gene rearrangements. No evidence of human immunodeficiency virus infec-tion was present, although nocardia, Candida, pneumocystis, cytomegalovirus, and herpes in-fections were documented. The concomitant presence of opportunistic infections and a large population of TCRafi+ CD4~ CD8“ T cells suggests a pathogenic association and an intense immune response to microbial lipid or lipoglycan antigens presented in the context of CD1 molecules. This case demonstrates the potential for idiopathic CD4+ T-lymphocyto- penia to occur in Beh^et’s-like syndrome with lethal
Omitting Data—Ethical or Strategic Problem?

Omitting experimental data is often considered a violation of scientific integrity. If we consider experimental inquiry as a questioning process, omitting data is seen to be merely an example of tentatively rejecting (‘bracketing’) some of nature’s answers. Such bracketing is not only occasionally permissible; sometimes it is mandated by optimal interrogative strategies. When to omit data is therefore a strategic rather than ethical question. These points are illustrated by reference to Millikan’s oil drop experiment.
The Multiplier, Flexible Exchanges, and International Equilibrium

I. Introduction, 559. — II. International equilibrium with flexible exchanges, 560. — III. Purchasing power parity reformulated, 566. — IV. Dynamic interactions, 569; the final equilibrium, 572. — V. Conditions determining which income will be greater, 576. — VI. Conditions determining whether incomes will be greater with or without flexible exchanges, 577. — VII. Conclusions, 579. — Appendix, 580.
Big Macs/Peanut Butter and Jelly: An Exploration of Dialectical Contradictions Experienced by the Sandwich Generation

Grounded in relational dialectics theory, this article reports a study exploring the influence of internal relational dialectic contradictions of women who are in the “Sandwich Generation,” or simultaneously providing some kind of care for generations of family both older and younger than them. Two hundred twenty-five female multi-generational caretakers (MGCs) reported their perceptions of the autonomy–connection, predictability–unpredictability, and openness–closedness of the relationship they have with an older adult for whom they provide care, as well as their current satisfaction level with this relationship. The data indicate communication between MGCs and their care recipient is more satisfying when the caretaker believes she has a high level of autonomy in the relationships and when there is a high level of openness within the relationships. These findings are interpreted using dialectic contradiction, change, and totality. This article also discusses practical implications of these findings for m...
The risk of bladder cancer in patients diagnosed with other primary neoplasms: analysis of the SEER database

Abstract Objective We evaluated patients with history of previous malignancy to determine risk of an ensuing bladder cancer. Materials and methods The National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results 9 registry database from 1973 to 1999 (SEER) was reviewed for patients with initial primary cancers in oral cavity and pharynx, colon and rectum, respiratory system, breast, prostate, testis, or penis. This group of patients was then examined to identify subsequent separate primary malignancies in the bladder. Comparison was made to the incidence of bladder cancer in the general population to determine a standardized incidence ratio (SIR). Additional analysis was performed based on age at diagnosis, stage, gender, race, and use of external beam radiation for treatment of initial cancer. Results A total of 7,289 (0.5%) of patients had a bladder cancer following their initial malignancy. Patients with prostate cancer had the largest increase in risk of bladder cancer with a SIR of 8.24, and all initial cancer groups had an elevated risk of bladder cancer relative to the general population. External beam radiation and non-White gender were associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer. Older age at diagnosis of the initial cancer correlated with a lower risk of subsequent bladder cancer. Conclusions This study suggests an increased risk of bladder cancer following a separate initial cancer. Lower threshold for working up those patients for bladder cancer may be warranted.
Considering Purpose and Intended Use When Making Evaluations of Assessments: A Response to Dickinson:

tional Researcher, the processes that are used to measure the quality of outof-home care for young children have begun to lag behind the relatively recent developments in child development research regarding literacy and the current theories regarding the processes by which children acquire emergent literacy skills. Dickinson pointed out a similar lag regarding the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accreditation standards. The purpose of this response is threefold: to further contribute to an important dialogue, to draw attention to some specific concerns with the details of Dickinson's argument, and to raise questions about the usefulness of making comparisons and evaluations of measurement tools without a complete consideration of their purpose. Early childhood researchers have begun to more fully understand the complex interchanges between young children and the various contexts in which they develop. Our understanding of both what young children can and do learn and how supportive contexts can strengthen learning is expanding (Bowman, Donovan, & Burns, 2000). Dickinson provided helpful reviews of the nature of these research developments with respect to emergent literacy (Dickinson & Tabors, 2001; Dickinson, 2002). Dickinson (2002) also drew attention to the fact that much of the current practice in the field of early childhood education fails to meet the challenges presented by recent research findings. This argument may also need to be extended to measures of teacher beliefs about de-
Using novel control groups to dissect the amygdala's role in Williams syndrome.

Abstract Williams syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder with an intriguing behavioral phenotype—hypersociability combined with significant non-social fears. Previous studies have demonstrated abnormalities in amygdala function in individuals with Williams syndrome compared to typically developing controls. However, it remains unclear whether the findings are related to the atypical neurodevelopment in Williams syndrome, or are also associated with behavioral traits at the extreme end of a normal continuum. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to compare amygdala blood-oxygenation-level-dependent (BOLD) responses to non-social and social images in individuals with Williams syndrome compared to either individuals with inhibited temperament (high non-social fear) or individuals with uninhibited temperament (high sociability). Individuals with Williams syndrome had larger amygdala BOLD responses when viewing the non-social fear images than the inhibited temperament control group. In contrast, when viewing both fear and neutral social images, individuals with Williams syndrome did not show smaller amygdala BOLD responses relative to the uninhibited temperament control group, but instead had amygdala responses proportionate to their sociability. These results suggest heightened amygdala response to non-social fear images is characteristic of WS, whereas variability in amygdala response to social fear images is proportionate to, and might be explained by, levels of trait sociability.
Contrasts in enacting TQM: Mechanistic vs. organic ideology and implementation

Abstract A qualitative longitudinal study of the enactment of TQM in two semi-conductor supplier firms revealed that adoption, implementation, and institutionalization of TQM in one firm was mechanistic, with a ritualistic use of specific TQM methods, procedures, and language while the other firm used an organic approach in which a local adaptation of TQM emerged as people learned and adapted concepts and tools to fit their specific needs. Results suggest that how TQM is implemented affects its institutionalization. Specifically, changes achieved through mechanistic approaches to TQ implementation may produce only short-lived conforming behaviors while organic implementation appears more likely to produce lasting change.
Physicochemical properties of plasticized corn zein films: NMR and adsorptivity studies

Water sorption isotherms of corn zein-based films are typical sigmodial curves. The presence of plasticizers greatly increase film water sorption at intermediate and high water activities. The presence of a plasticizer increases water vapor permeabilities of zein films. The extent of such effect depends on the plasticizer type and concentration used for film formation.