cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cost-Effective Mapping of Benthic Habitats in Inland Reservoirs through Split-Beam Sonar, Indicator Kriging, and Historical Geologic Data

Because bottom substrate composition is an important control on the temporal and spatial location of the aquatic community, accurate maps of benthic habitats of inland lakes and reservoirs provide valuable information to managers, recreational users, and scientists. Therefore, we collected vertical, split-beam sonar data (roughness [E1], hardness [E2], and bathymetry) and sediment samples to make such maps. Statistical calibration between sonar parameters and sediment classes was problematic because the E1:E2 ratios for soft (muck and clay) sediments overlapped a lower and narrower range for hard (gravel) substrates. Thus, we used indicator kriging (IK) to map the probability that unsampled locations did not contain coarse sediments. To overcome the calibration issue we tested proxies for the natural processes and anthropogenic history of the reservoir as potential predictive variables. Of these, a geologic map proved to be the most useful. The central alluvial valley and mudflats contained mainly muck and organic-rich clays. The surrounding glacial till and shale bedrock uplands contained mainly poorly sorted gravels. Anomalies in the sonar data suggested that the organic-rich sediments also contained trapped gases, presenting additional interpretive issues for the mapping. We extended the capability of inexpensive split-beam sonar units through the incorporation of historic geologic maps and other records as well as validation with dredge samples. Through the integration of information from multiple data sets, were able to objectively identify bottom substrate and provide reservoir users with an accurate map of available benthic habitat.
Effect of acetaldehyde and cyanamide on the metabolism of formaldehyde by hepatocytes, mitochondria, and soluble supernatant from rat liver☆

Abstract Formaldehyde can be metabolized primarily by two different pathways, one involving oxidation by the low- K m mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase, the other involving a specific, glutathione-dependent, formaldehyde dehydrogenase. To estimate the roles played by each enzyme in formaldehyde metabolism by rat hepatocytes, experiments with acetaldehyde and cyanamide, a potent inhibitor of the low- K m aldehyde dehydrogenase were carried out. The glutathione-dependent oxidation of formaldehyde by 100,000 g rat liver supernatant fractions was not affected by either acetaldehyde or by cyanamide. By contrast, the uptake of formaldehyde by intact mitochondria was inhibited 75 to 90% by cyanamide. Acetaldehyde inhibited the uptake of formaldehyde by mitochondria in a competitive fashion. Formaldehyde was a weak inhibitor of the oxidation of acetaldehyde by mitochondria, suggesting that, relative to formaldehyde, acetaldehyde was a preferred substrate. In isolated hepatocytes, cyanamide, which inhibited the oxidation of acetaldehyde by 75 to 90%, produced only 30 to 50% inhibition of formaldehyde uptake by cells as well as of the production of 14 CO 2 and of formate from [ 14 C]formaldehyde. The extent of inhibition by cyanamide was the same as that produced by acetaldehyde (30–40%). In the presence of cyanamide, acetaldehyde was no longer inhibitory, suggesting that acetaldehyde and cyanamide may act at the same site(s) and inhibit the same formaldehyde-oxidizing enzyme system. These results suggest that, in rat hepatocytes, formaldehyde is oxidized by cyanamide- and acetaldehydesensitive (low- K m aldehyde dehydrogenase) and insensitive (formaldehyde dehydrogenase) reactions, and that both enzymes appear to contribute about equally toward the overall metabolism of formaldehyde.
Understanding the Extent and Sources of Variation in Gut Microbiota Studies; a Prerequisite for Establishing Associations with Disease

Humans harbor distinct commensal microbiota at various anatomic sites. There has been renewed interest in the contributions of microbiota activities to human health and disease. The microbiota of the gut is the most complex of all anatomic sites in terms of total numbers of bacteria that interact closely with the mucosal immune system and contribute various functions to host physiology. Especially in the proximal large intestine a diverse microbiota ferments complex substrates such as dietary fiber and host mucins, but also metabolizes bile acids and phytoestrogens that reach the large intestine. It is now well established that microbiota composition differs between but over time also within individuals. However, a thorough understanding of the sources of variations in microbiota composition, which is an important requirement for large population based microbiota studies is lacking. Microbiota composition varies depending on what kind of sample is collected, most commonly stool samples, stool swabs or superficial rectal or intestinal biopsies, and the time of collection. Microbiota dynamics are affected by life style factors including diet and exercise that determine what nutrients reach the proximal colon and how fast these nutrients pass through (transit time). Here we review sample collection issues in gut microbiota studies and recent findings about dynamics in microbiota composition. We recommend standardizing human microbiota analysis methods to facilitate comparison and pooling between studies. Finally, we outline a need for prospective microbiota studies in large human cohorts.
Testing Social Ties against Merits: the Political Career of Provincial Party Chiefs in China, 1990–2007

The literature of Chinese politics focuses on two determinants in selecting government officials—merits and social ties. On the one hand, local officials who produce higher economic growth are more likely to be promoted. On the other hand, local officials who have social ties with top Party leaders are more likely to become candidates of future leaders. Since1990 two major factions have dominated in the Chinese politics. Strong tie with one faction might be perceived as a threat to the rival faction. My empirical analysis will examine what determined the promotion outcomes of provincial Party chiefs from 1990 to 2007. Five indicators of social ties are used in the Cox event history analysis: ties built through family, college, birthplace, workplace, or mishu. In the analysis the factionalist argument holds better than the meritocratic argument. But the story of social ties is complex because different social ties have different effects on promotion outcomes.
Psychosocial Outcomes of Adult Children of Mothers With Depression and Bipolar Disorder

Research has established that children of parents with mental illness, compared with normative samples, are more likely to have emotional/ behavioral problems or psychiatric diagnoses themselves. Few studies have examined these children at adulthood, however, to document their diverse psychosocial outcomes and the parenting and contextual variables that predict differences.This study addressed this gap through interviews with 61 adult children of mothers with major depression or bipolar disorder. Outcomes were extremely heterogeneous, ranging from few problems with alcohol use or behavioral health to high incarceration rates and mental health services usage. In examining children at adulthood, race/ethnicity, mother's diagnosis, and contextual factors such as family and social environment were significant predictors of satisfaction with life. Diagnosis was only marginally predictive of life satisfaction. Self-reported risk factors such as a serious injury to parents, family members' having trouble with th...
A result on the sign of restricted least-squares estimates

Abstract When a variable is dropped from a least-squares regression equation, there can be no change in sign of any coefficient that is more significant than the coefficient of the omitted variable. More generally, a constrained least squares estimate of a parameter βj must lie in the interval ( β j −V 1 2 jj |t|, β j + V 1 2 jj |t|) where β j is the unconstrained estimate of β j , V 1 2 jj is the standard error of β j and t is the t-value for testing the (univariate) restriction.
SUMMARIES OF STUDIES INVOLVING THE TEST OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE, 1963–1982

This set of 82 summaries is based on papers written between 1963 and 1982 concerning TOEFL. The papers summarized consist primarily of reports of research involving TOEFL. Also included are a few descriptive papers, which are summarized here to provide a perspective on the history and development of the test. The methods and criteria by which papers were identified for inclusion, as well as a scheme for classification of the papers, are presented in the Introduction.
Inhibition of T cell responses by transferrin-coupled competitor peptides

Activation of helper T cell has been implicated in a number of autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis. The underlying mechanism that initiates and promotes disease progression remains unclear, but it is apparent that helper T cells and autoantigens play prominentroles. Identification of the autoantigens has proven to be extremely difficult, and therefore strategies for promoting tolerance induction remain limited. Since autoimmune diseases are closely associated with specific major histocompatibility complex class II molecules such as HLA-DR4, the use of competitor peptides is an alternative strategy. A limitation of competitor peptides, however, is that they are ineffective in vivo. In the studies presented here, we demonstrate that coupling competitor peptides to a cell-surface receptor ligand, transferrin, enhances their ability to block helper T cell responses using the DO11.10 transgenic mouse as our model system.
Binding the Generations: Household Formation Patterns among Vietnamese Refugees

Much of the analysis of refugee and immigrant adaptation has stressed the interaction of prior experience with the requirements of life in a new country. For refugees, that interaction has often be...
High-frequency temperature sensing

A high-frequency response dual hot-wire aspirating probe which can measure the time- resolved stagnation temperature and pressure in an unsteady high-speed gas flow is described. The probe consists of two coplanar constant temperature hot wires at different overheat ratios, operated in a channel with a choked exit. Thus, the constant Mach number by the wires is influenced only by free-stream total temperature and pressure. The probe was used in three separate experiments. The experiments include measurements of the flowfield at the exit of transonic fans during steady-state operation, measurements of turbulence intensity in the wake of a transonic turbine cascade, and measurements of the exit flowfield in a transonic core- compressor during rotating stall. The paper describes the performance of the probe in all three experiments. Brief descriptions of the experiments are given and exemplary data are presented.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
CONTROLS OF MAGLEV SUSPENSION SYSTEMS

This study investigates alternative control designs of maglev vehicle suspension systems. Active and semi-active control law designs are introduced into primary and secondary suspensions of maglev vehicles. A one-dimensional vehicle with two degrees of freedom, to simulate the German Transrapid Maglev System, is used for suspension control designs. The transient and frequency responses of suspension systems and PSDs of vehicle accelerations are calculated to evaluate different control designs. The results show that active and semi-active control designs indeed improve the response of vehicle and provide an acceptable ride comfort for maglev systems.
Retailing and the period leading up to the Great Recession: a model and a 25-year financial ratio analysis of US retailing

Today, more than ever, retailers need to analyze the key solvency (liquidity) and efficiency financial ratio measures that affect how well their firms perform and to engage in long-term activities that will lead to improved results. Clearly, the recent ‘Great Recession’ has had a significant negative impact on retailers worldwide. Yet, an important question remains largely answered: Was the retail industry a major contributor to the events leading up to the economic crisis or was it an affected bystander shaken by the recession? This paper addresses the question for US retailing, the largest retail economy in the world. Although there has been considerable research on some aspects of the performance of the industry and individual firms, no prior studies exist that comprehensively examine the financial ratio performance of the totality of US retailing over time. Here, the financial performance of US retailers in 54 different sectors is analyzed for the 1982–2007 period using a model and data derived from D...
The motivational foundations and behavioral expressions of three narcissistic styles

The motivational and behavioral underpinnings of 3 narcissistic styles were assessed. Participants completed measures of adaptive, maladaptive, and covert narcissism along with instruments assessing unconscious and conscious motives and patterns of daily behavior. Adaptive narcissism was associated with dominance and affiliation motives, maladaptive narcissism was related to high dominance and low affiliation motivation, and covert narcissism was inversely associated with both dominance and affiliation. The notion that maladaptive and covert narcissism are 2 distinct styles representing different forms of disaffiliation is discussed.
The role of estrogen receptor in modulation of chromatin conformation in the 5' flanking region of the rat prolactin gene.

Abstract To determine whether the estrogen receptor (ER) has a role in the modification of chromatin structure, we developed cell lines to model discrete stages in the estrogen response. Each cell line carries a population of stably expressed papillomavirus-based minichromosomes containing the 5′ flanking region of the rat prolactin gene. We examined ER effects at the distal enhancer domain of the rat prolactin promoter, using DNaseI to probe for alterations of the nucleoprotein complex. Within 1 h after the start of estrogen treatment, modifications in the chromatin state of the distal enhancer region were detected in a pituitary-derived, permissive cell line (GH3G1J). In rat-1 fibroblast cell lines that maintain the same stably expressed papillomavirus-based minichromosomes in the absence of ER or pituitary-specific transcription factors (Rat-1.2A2; non-permissive), no estrogen-induced modifications in the chromatin state were detected at 1 or 24 h. In rat-1 fibroblast cell lines that also contained ectopically expressed, functional ER (Rat-1 + ER.8A1), no estrogen-induced modifications in the chromatin state were detected at 1 h, but at 24 h a specific modification in the local structure was induced. These data support a model in which the ER interacts with chromatin to modify local structure in such a way as to induce a permissive state for interactions of transcription factors necessary for hormone-induced activation of gene transcription.
Improved pharmacokinetic monitoring of tacrolimus exposure after pediatric renal transplantation

Because of its narrow therapeutic index, monitoring of drug exposure is recommended for tacrolimus (T). Limited data are available on kinetics of T in children after transplantation. Our study investigated the correlation between T trough and the area under the time-concentration curve (AUC) in pediatric renal transplant recipients and investigated the effect of steroids. Data on T troughs and two h and four h post-dose concentrations over the first post-transplant year in 20 transplant recipients from August 2001 to June 2005 were analyzed. Patients were analyzed in two groups based on their use of steroids. Although the overall correlation between the troughs and AUC was good (r = 0.85, Pearson test), during the first month the correlation was poor in the cohort receiving steroids (r = 0.5) compared with those on a steroid minimization regimen (r = 0.9). In 85% of patients there was a discrepancy between the trough and AUC leading to errors in dose adjustment. In conclusion, although the overall correlation between T trough and AUC is good, it is suboptimal in the first post-transplant month in children receiving steroids. Because of large variation in exposure, we recommend AUC monitoring for T. Prospective studies are needed to determine the impact of more accurate monitoring of T exposure on outcomes.
Endoscopic-assisted, closed rhinoplasty approach for excision of nasoglabellar dermoid cysts†

Objective/Hypothesis: To report the feasibility and early results of a new surgical technique for excision of nasoglabellar dermoid cysts. Study Design: Retrospective case series. Methods: Patients with nasoglabellar dermoid cysts without intracranial communication were treated with the endoscopic-assisted, closed rhinoplasty approach. Data pertaining to patient characteristics, surgical outcome, and cosmetic results were obtained by retrospectively reviewing medical records. Results: Three patients were included in the study. The endoscopic-assisted, closed rhinoplasty approach was utilized in all patients. In each case, complete excision was achieved without violation of the cyst wall. All patients had satisfactory cosmetic results as assessed by subjective evaluation by the parent(s) and surgeon. Conclusions: The endoscopic-assisted, closed rhinoplasty approach allows for safe and complete excision of uncomplicated nasoglabellar dermoid cysts. This new surgical technique should be considered in children with benign, midline nasal, and forehead masses due to its ease and excellent cosmetic results. Laryngoscope, 2010
Ultrahigh-contrast Ti:sapphire/Nd:glass terawatt laser system.

We have developed a 1.5-TW Ti:sapphire/Nd:glass chirped-pulse amplification system. The laser produces 640-mJ, 400-fs pulses. By using a passive pulse cleaning stage a power contrast ratio of 106 has been obtained.
Failure sensitivity of high density polyethylene in compression

As part of an investigation of the compressive mechanical behavior of high density polyethylene between room temperature and the crystalline melting temperature, the strain-to-failure as a function of temperature and strain rate was studied. The two resins studied in applied-strain-rate tests were found prone to fail, as judged by decreased strain-to-failure, at temperatures from 70 to 88°C. The strain-to-failure decreased as the temperature was increased or as the strain rate was decreased. This behavior is opposite to that observed in tension at lower temperatures. At temperatures just below melting, the strain-to-failure apparently began to increase again. By analogy to the results of tearing experiments on polyethylene and other thermoplastics, the findings are explained in terms of the influence of the α relaxation in polyethylene. Differences in the behavior of the two polyethylene resins were also examined.
Constructing Gender in Marriage: Implications for Counseling

This article examines two approaches to gender and to marital counseling and therapy: (a) one approach focuses on internalized gender differences, and (b) the otherfocuses on structural power diffe...
The Relations of Cigarette Smoking with Risky Sexual Behavior among Teens

This paper discusses the co-occurrence of cigarette smoking and sexual behavior among teens. Empirical support for their co-occurrence, eight reasons why they may co-occur, and negative emotional and physical consequences of their co-occurrence is discussed. In addition, prevention implications for teens are suggested.
“Sometimes You Feel Invisible”: Performing Queer/Disabled in the University Classroom

AbstractThis qualitative study explored the classroom experiences of 25 LGBTQ students with disabilities at a research-intensive university. Drawing on critical/postmodern epistemologies and concepts from both queer theory and disability studies, this -article details students’ experiences in the university classroom related to their multiple, intersecting social identities. Students in the study described processes of disclosing identities in classes, managing perceptions of professors and peers, and experiencing and processing microaggressions.
Problems and solutions to the development of vaccines in the elderly

Scientists involved in vaccine research and development face the challenge of protecting the ever-increasing elderly population from a broad spectrum of infectious diseases. The optimal vaccine-induced immune response to confer protection is undefined for many pathogens, and the field of vaccine research is undergoing a gradual shift from the original focus on humoral immunity to a focus that incorporates cellular and innate immune components. The age-related changes in various aspects of immune function, including an increase in a population of T cells that shows signs of replicative senescence, underscore the need to enhance research aimed at designing vaccines to meet the unique requirements of the elderly population.
Toughened graphite-epoxy composites exposed in near-Earth orbit for 5.8 years

This experiment was designed to measure the effect of near-Earth space exposure on three mechanical properties of specially toughened unidirectional T300/5208 graphite-epoxy cross-ply composite materials. The properties measured are fracture toughness, elastic modulus, and strength. Six toughness specimens and nine tensile specimens were mounted on an external frame during the 5.8-y orbit of the Long Duration Exposure Facility. Three identical sets of specimens were manufactured at the outset: the flight set, a zero-time nonflight set, and a total-time nonflight set. Results indicate that with proper protection from solar exposure and atomic-oxygen degradation, toughened graphite-epoxy composites can provide useful structural service in near-Earth orbit for at least five years.
Response Time Variations in an Online Search System

The response time characteristics of the National Library of Medicine's (NLM) ELHILL bibliographic search system are examined in this article. Transactions for a five-week period are analyzed and average response times are calculated for typical search commands, by time of day, and by file being searched. Overall, the response time of the system was found to be 2.1 seconds, a very low value. Based on statistical tests of significance applied to the data, it was concluded that response time differences can be explained in terms of the number of users on the system and not the command issued by the user nor the file the user searched.
An Experimental Comparison of the Effects of Focused Freewriting and Other Study Strategies on Lecture Comprehension

In a 2 x 4 factorial design, the immediate and delayed effects of focused freewriting on lecture comprehension were examined and contrasted with the following conditions: focused thought, outlining, and math problem solving (control). The immediate effect of a focused freewriting exercise was increased lecture comprehension, which was equivalent to that observed in the focused-thought condition and superior to comprehension in the outlining and math problem-solving conditions. In contrast, on a 1-week delayed comprehension test, performance of the focused-freewriting subjects was below that of the focused-thought group and similar to that of the outlining and m t h problem-solving groups. Some advantages of focused freewriting as an instructional technique for enhancing students' writing skills and comprehension of course content are discussed. Several hypotheses concerning the optimal circumstances for obtaining beneficial, long- term effects of focused freewriting are advanced.
Rapid thermal processing uniformity using multivariable control of a circularly symmetric 3 zone lamp

Defect introduction and process variations commonly observed in conventional rapid thermal processing (RTP) systems have impeded its widespread acceptance in manufacturing. The main problem lies in the conventional approach of using scalar control, where optimal steady-state temperature uniformity at one set of processing conditions is used to fix the hardware geometry, leaving only one input variable-the lamp power-for control. It is demonstrated that this control is inadequate, since the radiative and convective heat exchange at the wafer are functions of the processing conditions, and that the resultant nonuniformity can be corrected by dynamic control of the spatial optical flux profile. Such control is demonstrated through two key innovations: a lamp system in which tungsten-halogen point sources are configured in three concentric rings to provide a circularly symmetric flux profile, and multivariable control whereby each of the three rings is independently and dynamically controlled to provide for control over the spatial flux profile. This approach offers good temperature uniformity over transients, thus improving reliability of individual processes. >
Intraband pressure measurements describe a pattern of weight loss for patients with adjustable gastric bands.

Background Individuals with adjustable gastric bands experience plateaus in weight loss. Patients commonly attribute this to a "loosening" of their band with time. We sought to elucidate a physiologic mechanism for this pattern in patient behavior and describe the feasibility of a pressure-based adjustment algorithm for adjustable gastric bands. Methods Following IRB protocol, 100 consecutive patients undergoing placement of the Lap-Band (Inamed) were enrolled and followed prospectively for 12 months. Intraband pressure measurements at band volumes 0 to 4 mL were recorded intraoperatively and at each subsequent band adjustment. Band adjustments were made using the currently accepted volume-based postoperative protocol. Results Seventy-nine patients were included in analysis. Mean percent excess weight loss for the study cohort was 36 ± 17% at a median followup of 347 days. During the time between adjustments, there was a statistically significant decrease (p Conclusions Between adjustments, Lap-Band patients experience gradual loss of satiety and a loosening of their band, despite stable band volume. Their experience is substantiated by degradation in their intraband pressures with time. We have demonstrated that intraband pressures correlate with the patient's clinical history and have thereby established the foundation for a pressure-based adjustment protocol.
Pathways to Prison Impact of Victimization in the Lives of Incarcerated Women

This study examines ways in which victimization may contribute to criminal involvement among incarcerated women. The authors conduct interviews with 60 women in a maximum-security prison to gather each woman's perspective on psychological, physical, and sexual victimization in her life. Qualitative analyses indicate ways that victimization relates directly to women's crimes as well as influences health, psychosocial functioning, or systemic involvement to create difficult situations with which the women struggle. Case histories are used to illustrate pervasive impacts of victimization, and the roles of multiple traumas and cumulative impact are discussed.
Managerial Openness to Change and the Introduction of GDSS: Explaining Initial Success and Failure in Decision Conferencing

The term Group Decision Support System GDSS refers broadly to any application of information technology that supports the work of groups. As more organizations increasingly explore possible applications of GDSS in ways that have the potential to alter managerial routines, the extent of managerial openness to change will be tested at least as much as the new technology. The relation of managerial openness to the successful introduction of GDSS was studied by analyzing a survey of participants in 26 decision conferences hosted by the Decision Techtronics Group of the State University of New York. The perceived benefit of each conference was assessed by a global outcome scale. Eight additional scales were employed to measure group decision process effectiveness, based on the Competing Values Approach to organizational analysis. Results indicated that conferences were evaluated as most beneficial by flexible client organizations that appeared open to the initial use of GDSS. As expected, positive outcomes also were found to be associated with conferences that involved fewer participants and in which participants believed that important decisions had been made. To the extent that the process of GDSS introduction can be managed to avoid failures, the research findings strongly encourage the design of meetings that both efficiently focus on the task i.e., are highly goal centered while simultaneously engaging the full involvement of every group member i.e., are highly participatory. While new technology must be repeatedly modified following adoption to suit the unique demands of each workplace, an organizational unit also must be able to change appropriately its established structures and processes to make accommodation. Such mutual adaptation suggests that the eventual assimilation of new technology will become threatened wherever it is rigidly introduced or wherever management teams are not flexible enough to alter their decision-making routines at the time of initiation.
A Figure of Merit for Single-Pass Data Recording Systems

The problem of the interference caused by eddy current transients to the reproduction of recorded data is studied for single-pass magnetic recording systems of both the write-read and read-write variety. Signal-to-interference ratios are introduced for both modes of operation, and their variation is studied in detail. It is found convenient to introduce a dimensionless parameter a as a figure of merit for single-pass systems. This factor is a function of the velocity of the magnetic medium, the number of pulses that can be recorded per unit length, and the permeability, conductivity, and dimensions of the laminations of the recording head; it is equal to a=?2/6Nv??d2. Brief consideration is given to the effect of certain practical system factors on the conclusions reached from the theoretical analysis.
The Influence of Landscape Composition on the Biotic Community of Constructed Depressional Wetlands

To increase wetland acreage and biodiversity, state agencies constructed more than 220 depressional wetlands throughout Delaware. We investigated effects of landscape composition within 1,000 m and 5,000 m of 20 Kent County, Delaware constructed wetlands on their avian, macroinvertebrate, and vegetative communities. Using digital orthophotography and geographic information system (GIS), we quantified agriculture, early successional, forest, development, freshwater wetlands, roads, and streams within concentric buffers. We also calculated distance to nearest forest, wetland, and paved road edge from the wetland's center. In 2004 and 2005, we surveyed the biotic communities and regressed richness and diversity values against landscape variables. Proximity of nearest forest edge was the most important variable in explaining avian and vegetative richness and diversity. We detected negative relationships with distance to nearest forest and bird richness, bird diversity, total plant richness, facultative wetland plant cover, and native, exotic, and obligate wetland plant richness and cover. Furthermore, bird richness and diversity increased with forest area within 1,000 m and bird diversity increased with forest area within 5,000 m. To optimize biodiversity, managers should consider proximity to forest for wetlands constructed in agricultural landscapes.
Distributed manipulation along trajectories using open-loop force fields

Distributed manipulation systems induce motions on objects through the application of many external forces. An actuator array performs distributed manipulation using a planar array of many small stationary elements, which cooperate to manipulate larger objects through the generation of a programmable force field. The paper demonstrates a methodology to perform trajectory following to transport objects with specified position and orientation. Open-loop "elliptic" force fields transport objects by pulling them along the trajectory both in position and orientation. This is done in three stages: purely open loop, open loop with feed-forward compensation to correct for steady-state error on lines and around circular curves, and closed-loop with both feed-forward and small-signal linearized feedback. These approaches apply to arbitrary paths through linear and circular trajectory approximations. Results are verified through simulation.
Shear coefficients for Timoshenko beam theory

The Timoshenko beam theory includes the effects of shear deformation and rotary inertia on the vibrations of slender beams. The theory contains a shear coefficient which has been the subject of much previous research. In this paper a new formula for the shear coefficient is derived. For a circular cross section, the resulting shear coefficient that is derived is in full agreement with the value most authors have considered best. Shear coefficients for a number of different cross sections are found.
Climate influences the demography of three dominant sagebrush steppe plants

Climate change could alter the population growth of dominant species, leading to profound effects on community structure and ecosystem dynamics. Understanding the links between historical variation in climate and population vital rates (survival, growth, recruitment) is one way to predict the impact of future climate change. Using a unique, long-term data set from eastern Idaho, USA, we parameterized integral projection models (IPMs) for Pseudoroegneria spicata, Hesperostipa comata, and Artemisia tripartita to identify the demographic rates and climate variables most important for population growth. We described survival, growth, and recruitment as a function of genet size using mixed-effect regression models that incorporated climate variables. Elasticites for the survival + growth portion of the kernel were larger than the recruitment portion for all three species, with survival + growth accounting for 87-95% of the total elasticity. The genet sizes with the highest elasticity values in each species were very close to the genet size threshold where survival approached 100%. We found strong effects of climate on the population growth rate of two of our three species. In H. comata, a 1% decrease in previous year's precipitation would lead to a 0.6% decrease in population growth. In A. tripartita, a 1% increase in summer temperature would result in a 1.3% increase in population growth. In both H. comata and A. tripartita, climate influenced population growth by affecting genet growth more than survival or recruitment. Late-winter snow was the most important climate variable for P. spicata, but its effect on population growth was smaller than the climate effects we found in H. comata or A. tripartita. For all three species, demographic responses lagged climate by at least one year. Our analysis indicates that understanding climate effects on genet growth may be crucial for anticipating future changes in the structure and function of sagebrush steppe vegetation.
A multichannel minimum-seeking analog-to-digital converter

A special-purpose analog to digital (A/D) circuit using medium-scale integration ICs on a printed circuit board is developed. The circuit determines which of the eight input analog signals is the lowest and provides an 8-b magnitude and 3-b address output of this minimum input signal at a 0.5-MHz conversion rate. The circuit utilizes a successive approximation register, adder registers, CMOS D/A (digital/analog), parallel comparators, and a priority encoder connected in closed loop. Control is accomplished using simple flip-flop logic. Several important signal-processing applications are mentioned for this circuit as a feedback component in optical and electronic systems, utilizing associative self-organizing memory. >
Driving Privileges Facilitate Impaired Driving in Those Youths Who Use Alcohol or Marijuana

The aim of this study was to determine whether possession of a driver's license increases the risk of impaired driving among adolescents who use alcohol or marijuana. An anonymous questionnaire was administered to secondary school students in northeast Ohio across multiple school districts. Logistic regression analyses revealed that after accounting for socio-demographic variables, legal driving privileges were independent risk factors for both alcohol- and marijuana-impaired driving, and more robust than substance use in distinguishing between impaired and non-impaired drivers. Prevention strategies must address conventional licensing policies in addition to social and contextual factors leading to adolescent alcohol and marijuana use and associated risks.
On Six Advances in Cooperation Theory

The symposium included in this issue of Analyse & Kritik extends the basis of Cooperation Theory as set forth in Axelrod's Evolution of Cooperation (1984). This essay begins with an overview of Cooperation Theory in terms of the questions it asks, its relationship to game theory and rationality, and the principal methodologies used, namely deduction and simulation. This essay then addresses the issues raised in the symposium, including the consequences of extending the original paradigm of the two person iterated Prisoner's Dilemma to take into account such factors as nonsimultaneous play, the ability to oer hostages for performance, social networks of interaction, information sharing that can support reputations, learning behavior, envy, misunderstanding, and an option to exit. The essay places the contributions of this symposium in the context of previous research on these and related issues.
The kink-poly confluence: relationship intersectionality in marginalized communities

ABSTRACTThere is little academic literature published on the intersection of kink- and polyamorous-identified individuals, though there are relatively frequent mentions of people who identify as both kink- and poly-oriented in the literature that focuses on one or the other of the two communities. The prevalence of intersecting kink and poly identifications tends to be acknowledged, accepted, and depathologized in both communities, and polyamory is sometimes considered a norm in certain kink subcultures. In order to help and give voice to this understudied population, a review of the literature was conducted on the characteristic commonalities in these communities, as well in kink- and poly-oriented relationships. Common themes in the intersection of these relationship types are identified; historical background is given for the respective communities; theories of identity formation are explored; clinical issues are reviewed; and recommendations for clinical interventions are made.
The effect of terminal sterilization on the material properties and in vivo remodeling of a porcine dermal biologic scaffold.

Abstract Biologic scaffolds composed of extracellular matrix are commonly used in a variety of surgical procedures. The Food and Drug Administration typically regulates biologic scaffolds as medical devices, thus requiring terminal sterilization prior to clinical use. However, to date, no consensus exists for the most effective yet minimally destructive sterilization protocol for biologic scaffold materials. The objective of the present study was to characterize the effect of ethylene oxide, gamma irradiation and electron beam (e-beam) irradiation on the material properties and the elicited in vivo remodeling response of a porcine dermal biologic scaffold. Outcome measures included biochemical, structural, and mechanical properties as well as cytocompatibility in vitro. In vivo evaluation utilized a rodent model to examine the host response to the materials following 7, 14, and 35 days. The host response to each experimental group was determined by quantitative histologic methods and by immunolabeling for macrophage polarization (M1/M2). In vitro results show that increasing irradiation dosage resulted in a dose dependent decrease in mechanical properties compared to untreated controls. Ethylene oxide-treated porcine dermal ECM resulted in decreased DNA content, extractable total protein, and bFGF content compared to untreated controls. All ETO treated, gamma irradiated, and e-beam irradiated samples had similar cytocompatibility scores in vitro. However, in vivo results showed that increasing dosages of e-beam and gamma irradiation elicited an increased rate of degradation of the biologic scaffold material following 35 days. Statement of Significance The FDA typically regulates biologic scaffolds derived from mammalian tissues as medical devices, thus requiring terminal sterilization prior to clinical use. However, there is little data and no consensus for the most effective yet minimally destructive sterilization protocol for such materials. The present study characterized the effect of common sterilization methods: ethylene oxide, gamma irradiation and electron beam irradiation on the material properties and the elicited in vivo remodeling response of a porcine dermal biologic scaffold. The results of the study will aid in the meaningful selection of sterilization methods for biologic scaffold materials.
Child Welfare, Juvenile Justice, Mental Health, and Education Providers’ Conceptualizations of Trauma-Informed Practice

This study systematically examined child-service providers' conceptualizations of trauma-informed practice (TIP) across service systems, including child welfare, juvenile justice, mental health, and education. Eleven focus groups and nine individual interviews were conducted, totaling 126 child-service providers. Conventional content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data with interrater reliability analyses indicating near perfect agreement between coders. Qualitative analysis revealed that child-service providers identified traumatic stress as an important common theme among children and families served as well as the interest in TIP in their service systems. At the same time, child-service providers generally felt knowledgeable about what they define TIP to be, although they articulated wide variations in the degree to which they are taught skills and strategies to respond to their traumatized clients. The results of this study suggest a need for a common lexicon and metric with which to advance TIP within and across child-service systems.
Teilhabe am öffentlichen Leben : Gleichstellung von Menschen mit einer Behinderung im Kanton Basel-Stadt

Abstract. Aussonderung und Stigmatisierung von Menschen mit einer Behinderung haben eine lange geschichtliche Tradition. Neue gesetzliche Grundlagen sollen bestehende Benachteiligungen fur Menschen mit einer Behinderung in verschiedenen Lebensbereichen abbauen und ihre Teilhabe am offentlichen Leben fordern. Der Kanton Basel-Stadt hat als erster und immer noch einziger Kanton der Schweiz die Stelle eines Beauftragten fur die Gleichstellung und Integration von Menschen mit einer Behinderung geschaffen. In enger Zusammenarbeit mit den Departementen der kantonalen Verwaltung und weiteren Fachstellen und Fachpersonen werden durch kleine und grosse Projekte Diskriminierungen in den Bereichen Schule, Ausbildung, Arbeit, Freizeit, Wohnen, offentlicher Verkehr, Bauen und Kommunikation abgebaut. Die Gleichstellungs- und Integrationsarbeit ist sehr konkret, hat ihren Platz in den Strukturen der Verwaltung und im Rahmen der regularen Budgets und fuhrt durch spur- und sichtbare Resultate zu einer besseren Teilhabe behinderter Menschen am Leben des Kantons.
Polyol Synthesis of Lithium Iron Phosphate with Carbon Nanotubes: Effect of Dispersion on Crystallinity and Electrochemical Performance

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been shown to be a viable conductive additive in Li-Ion batteries [1]. By using CNTs battery life, energy, and power capability can all be improved over carbon black, the traditional conductive additive. A significantly smaller weight percentage (5% CNTs) is needed to get the same conductivity as 20% carbon black. Many of the previous efforts found that a combination of conductive additives was most advantageous [2]. Unfortunately many of these efforts did not attend to the unique challenge that dispersing nanotubes presents and used non-optimal methods to disperse CNTs (e.g. ball milling) [3,4]. With poor dispersion a stable and resilient conductive network in the cathode is hard to form with CNTs alone. Here we investigate the formation of LiFePO4 with CNTs using a polyol process synthesis.
Hemorrhage Risk in Pediatric Patients with Multiple Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations

Background/Aims: This study aims to characterize the clinical features, treatment strategies, and annual hemorrhage incidence rate of pediatric patients with multiple arteriovenous malformations (MAVM). Methods: The PubMed and EMBASE databases and the arteriovenous malformations (AVM) database at the Johns Hopkins Hospital were searched for reports of pediatric patients (under 21 years of age) with MAVM. Data related to demographics, clinical features, management, and treatment outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Twenty-four pediatric patients met the inclusion criteria. Results: The annual hemorrhage incidence rate was 2.1%. The most common presenting features were neurological deficit (38%) and hemorrhage (21%). Treatment with embolization has become the most frequently used modality. In patients undergoing staged treatment of MAVM, hemorrhage of an untreated nidus (n = 1), visualization of a new nidus (n = 2), or disappearance of a draining vein (n = 1) occurred. Conclusion: The annual hemorrhage incidence rate for pediatric patients with MAVM approaches the upper range of previously reported hemorrhage rates for solitary AVM. A staged approach to treating MAVM requires close follow-up as changes to the remaining nidi may occur during the latency period. Limitations of this study include its small sample size and reporting bias.
Wireless telemetry system for real-time estimation of ship air wakes with UAVs

Abstract This paper presents a wireless instrumentation system developed for real-time estimation of air turbulence patterns arising from the interaction of wind with any structure under consideration, which is an important study in the aerospace industry. In particular, this paper focuses on the application of the proposed system in a naval research problem for off-board measurement of ship air wake patterns using an instrumented radio controlled (RC) helicopter. We propose the use of an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) as a sensor to measure air wake in the form of induced vibrations on the helicopter while it maneuvers through regions of active air wake. The proposed system makes use of Back Propagation Neural Networks to compensate for the vibrational noise contributed by pilot inputs. The instrumentation system was integrated and tested on a modified training vessel in the Chesapeake Bay, which provided a wide range of wind conditions.