cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dynamics, Control and Planning for Cooperative Manipulation of Payloads Suspended by Cables from Multiple Quadrotor Robots

We address the problem of cooperative transportation of a cable-suspended payload by multiple quadrotors. In previous work, quasi-static models have been used to study this problem. However, these approaches are severely limited because they ignore the payload dynamics, and do not explicitly model the underactuation in the control problem. Thus, there are no guarantees on the payload trajectory or the cable tensions, which must be non negative. In this paper, we develop a complete dynamic model for the case when payload is a point load and for the case when the payload is a rigid body. We show in both cases the resulting system is differentially flat when the cable tensions are strictly positive. We also consider the case where the tensions are non negative (including the case with zero tensions) and establish that these systems are differentially flat hybrid systems by considering the switching dynamics induced by the unilateral tension constraints. We use the differential flatness property to find dynamically feasible trajectories for the payload+quadrotors system. We show using numerical and experimental methods that these trajectories are superior to those obtained by quasi-static models.
Distribution of Western Bean Cutworm Eggs Among Short-, Mid-, and Long-Season Corn Hybrids Planted on Different Dates

Oviposition rates of western bean cutworm, Loxagrolis albicosta (Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), were determined throughout the ovipositional period for 3 years in three to five com hybrids with different day-degree requirements, each planted on two to three dates. Number of eggs laid was found to be related to both factors. Overall, plots with the earliest mean growth stage tended to receive the greatest number of eggs at all sampling dates. In 1 year, oviposition began while growth stages were earlier than in the other 2 years. Egg distribution for that year showed a tendency for plants that were just beginning to tassel to receive more eggs than earlier or later growth stages. The relationships between adult light trap catches and total oviposition in the experimental area appeared similar in the 3 years regarding magnitude and timing of peak numbeŕs and duration of activity.
From principles to action: Applying the National Research Council's principles for effective decision support to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's watch office

Abstract The National Research Council (NRC) proposed six principles for effective decision support in its 2009 report Informing Decisions in a Changing Climate . We structured a collaborative project between the Federal Emergency Management Agency Region R9 (FEMA R9), the Western Region Headquarters of the National Weather Service (WR-NWS), and the Climate Assessment of the Southwest (CLIMAS) at the University of Arizona around the application of the NRC principles. The goal of the project was to provide FEMA R9's Watch Office with climate information scaled to their temporal and spatial interests to aid them in assessing the potential risk of flood disasters. We found that we needed specific strategies and activities in order to apply the principles effectively. By using a set of established collaborative research approaches we were better able to assess FEMA R9's information needs and WR-NWS's capacity to meet those needs. Despite our diligent planning of engagement strategies, we still encountered some barriers to transitioning our decision support tool from research to operations. This paper describes our methods for planning and executing a three-party collaborative effort to provide climate services, the decision support tool developed through this process, and the lessons we will take from this deliberate collaborative process to our future work and implications of the NRC principles for the broader field of climate services.
Effect of platelet-activating factor (PAF) on human platelets

The effect of pure synthetic PAF (1-0-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine) was studied in human platelets. PAF (0.2--2.0 micrograms/ml) produced a dose-dependent aggregation in human platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or platelet suspension obtained by gel-filtration (GFP). In addition, PAF (0.8 microgram/ml) induced secretion of 14C-serotonin (45% +/- 10%; mean +/- SD, n = 9) and platelet factor 4 (PF4) (12.89 +/- 3.81 micrograms/10(9) platelets; n = 9) in PRP. Similar results were obtained in GFP. Aggregation and release of 14C-serotonin and PF4 were inhibited by the metabolic inhibitors 2-deoxyglucose (16.7 mM) and antimycin-A (8.3 micrograms/ml), by the membrane-active drugs mepacrine (10 microM) and chlorpromazine (0.025 mM), by PGI2 (5.34 nM), which elevates intracellular c-AMP, by indomethacin (10 microM) or aspirin (100 microM). The ADP scavengers, creatine phosphate and creatine phosphokinase (CP/CPK), inhibited the second wave of aggregation but not secretion. These data suggest that the major effect of PAF on human platelets is mediated through the cyclo-oxygenase pathway and not through a third pathway.
The influence of timing and the addition of urea to supplements containing DL-methionine on ruminal fermentation and cow weight change in beef cows.

A study was conducted to determine an optimal time for supplementation of DL-methionine in relation to time of forage intake by mature British breed-type crossbred cows, and two other experiments were conducted to determine whether ruminal ammonia concentration limited changes in disappearance rates in situ and ruminal functions caused by supplements containing DL-methionine. Experiments 1 and 2 used 4 x 4 Latin square designs with four cows in each experiment. Treatments in Exp. 1 were no supplement (CON), DL-methionine at feeding (0800), DL-methionine 4 h after feeding (1200), and DL-methionine 7 h after feeding (1500). Treatments in Exp. 2 were .5 kg of beet pulp (CON), .5 kg of beet pulp plus 16.5 g of DL-methionine (MET), .5 kg of beet pulp plus 16.5 g of DL-methionine and 55 g of urea (METU), and .4 kg of soybean (SOY). Experiment 3 was conducted in a 326-ha pasture with treatments of no supplement (CON), .5 kg of beet pulp plus 12.5 g of DL-methionine and 30 g of urea (METU), and .4 of kg soybean meal (SOY). In Exp. 1, in situ NDF disappearance rates of cows supplemented at 1200 and 1500 were greater (P less than .01) than those of cows supplemented at 0800. In Exp. 2, ruminal ammonia concentration was greatest (P less than .001) for METU (5.2 mg/dl) and least for CON (1.5 mg/dl). Disappearance rates in situ for DM differed (P less than .01) among treatments; METU was similar (P greater than .2) to SOY but faster (P less than .01) than MET. Disappearance rates of NDF were greatest (P less than .001) for METU-supplemented cows. In Exp. 3, DM and NDF disappearance rates were faster (P less than .10) for SOY than for METU. Cow BW change was positive for METU and SOY, and decrease in condition score was least (P less than .10) for METU- and SOY-treated cows. These studies indicate favorable ruminal responses to DL-methionine supplementation; however, the response depended on time of supplementation and ruminal ammonia concentration.
Optical performance monitoring in optical transport networks

This chapter introduces the functional elements required for the implementation of optical transport services and presents the role of optical performance monitoring functions in the operation and maintenance process of optical layer networks and their integration into a telecommunications management network (TMN). Driven by the tremendous growth in IP-based data traffic, telecommunications providers are facing the urgent need to manage ultra-high-capacity networks and provide the capability for evolving to a multiservice transport platform that supports packet-based data transport as well as legacy traffic. The underlying optical transport network (OTN) infrastructure must be inherently scalable to handle this traffic and flexible enough to respond to rapidly changing traffic patterns. Deregulation and global competition in the telecommunications industry have created a situation where multiple service providers and transport providers are cooperating to deliver an increasing range of services to the end user. Provisioning of optical transport services requires integration of transport functions, management functions, and control functions in a multivendor/multiprovider environment. A management concept based on layering and partitioning and abstraction was developed to master the complexity of optical networking in a global multivendor/multiprovider environment. Those concepts are the enablers for flexible and cost-effective network integration, rapid provisioning of broadband services, and controllable service quality on optical networks. The separation into data networking and transport networking is a first step toward layered functional architecture. However, this simple approach is not sufficient for modeling the full range of networking and control processes required for implementation of intelligent transport services.
Learning from experiences to determine quality in ethics education

Ethics is a prominent subject in almost all academic fields. However, the teaching of ethics is a controversial matter in terms of its aim, scope, method, and so on. Besides these points, the issue of quality in ethics education is another essential consideration which needs to define the concept of quality and determine its indicators as well as its measurement. Therefore, establishing certain standards and principles in ethics education may benefit all ethics programs across the world and create a global standardization at some points. Nevertheless, prior to proposing any method, model, standard, or indicator, looking at the existing situation of the current ethics programs would give opportunity to detect good practices, shortages, and shortcomings. In this sense, the aim of this paper was to review the literature on ethics education to exhibit the features of the present ethics programs and benefit from their experiences to determine what quality in ethics education is. The findings demonstrated that both students and educators believe that ethics education generates positive impact on ethical awareness, knowledge, and reasoning. However, the reviewed studies did not indicate explicit and adequate clues to draw a conclusion about what quality in ethics education is and which teaching method is the most effective.
Tuberous Sclerosis: Diagnostic Criteria

The Diagnostic Criteria Committee of the National Tuberous Sclerosis Association reports primary, secondary, and tertiary features of the disease complex and considers the specificity and reliability of the various lesions.
Clinical pearls and scientific advancement: Reconciling tradition with new knowledge.

“Every child exhibiting dystonia merits an l-dopa trial, lest the potentially treatable condition of dopa-responsive dystonia is missed.”1 This is but one of many clinical pearls we as neurologists learn in training. Clinical pearls are rarely evidence-based, yet we remember them well, searching for them as trainees, then passing on these same pearls to new generations. Why are clinical pearls part of our education and practice traditions? These statements distill complex pieces of information, key concepts, and clinical wisdom into short, memorable phrases. Neurology® has a section dedicated to clinical pearls as part of the Resident & Fellow Section: e-Pearls.2
Lobbying regulation in the states revisited: What are we trying to measure, and how do we measure it?

The states regulate lobbying based on how they define lobbyists and interest groups, by requiring reporting and disclosure of certain activities, and by prohibiting a number of activities between lobbyists and government officials. These laws are designed to provide accountability and to alter certain political behaviors. For decades, scholars have studied these laws, while a number of good government groups have created their own measures assessing lobby regulations. The result is a multitude of measures that often assess very different constructs. This article creates an updated measure of lobbying regulation and compares this measure to previous and current, alternative measures.
Ni(I)-Catalyzed Reductive Cyclization of 1,6-Dienes: Mechanism-Controlled trans Selectivity

Summary A Ni-catalyzed reductive cyclization of 1,6-dienes affords 3,4-disubstituted cyclopentane and pyrrolidine derivatives with high trans diastereoselectivity. This cyclization reaction enables the efficient synthesis of trans- 3,4-dimethyl gababutin, a pharmaceutical lead for treating neuropathic pain, and trans- 3,4-dimethylpyrrolidine, a precursor to drug candidates and pesticides. The trans selectivity distinguishes this reaction from relevant precedents that proceed via hydrogen-atom transfer and lead to cis products. Mechanistic investigation, including kinetic, spectroscopic, and radical clock studies, attributes the trans diastereoselectivity to a classic, organometallic catalytic cycle mediated by Ni(I) and Ni(III) intermediates. The electron-rich Ni(I) intermediate, stabilized by a redox-active α-diimine ligand, is responsible for the chemoselectivity toward reductive cyclization as opposed to the redox-neutral cycloisomerization observed with previous Ni(II) catalysts.
The usefulness of strain wave elastography in the diagnosis and grading of Hashimoto's thyroiditis in children.

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Elastographic Strain Index (SI) in the diagnosis and grading of pediatric Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) patients. This cross-sectional, controlled trial was carried out in the pediatric radiology department of our tertiary care center. The study group consisted of 63 children with HT and control group was composed of 47 healthy children. Conventional ultrasonography (US) and SI elastography measurements were performed through the Aplio™ 500 ultrasonic device with a linear 4.8–11.0 MHz transducer and elastography software. Furthermore, the correlation between strain ratio values and other variables was investigated. The mean age of the HT patients was 139.63 ± 27.61 months, and no significant difference was found between the control group (143.09 ± 27.32 months) and the patients regarding mean age and gender. The mean SI of normal healthy individuals and patients with HT was 0.26 ± 0.77 and 1.75 ± 1.46, respectively (p < 0.001). For the diagnosis for HT with elastography, the sensitivity was 92.1%, and specificity was 66% when the optimal mean SI cut-off value was taken as 0.31, (p < 0.001). The use of elastographic SI in patients with HT is a highly promising method for objective and countable results compared with the conventional US. The sensitivity of the increase in SI value was determined to be high in the diagnosis of HT. It was also considered that the elastography SI value had higher sensitivity and specificity than the conventional US in HT patients with moderate to advanced tissue hardening.
Effects of Cold Fronts on Bayhead Delta Development: Atchafalaya Bay, Louisiana, USA

Delta-building in the Holocene Mississippi River system is characterized by the successive construction and abandonment of delta lobes (Fisk, 1944; Kolb and Van Lopik, 1958; Frazier, 1967). Each major delta-building episode is accompanied by a rather orderly and predictable set of events starting with stream capture followed by filling of an interdistributary basin with lacustrine deltas and swamp deposits, building of a bayhead delta at the coast, and finally construction of a major shelf delta. The process of “delta switching” involves the initiation of a new major delta while the previously active delta is systematically abandoned. These changes associated with shifting fluvial input are commonly referred to as the “delta cycle” (Roberts, 1997). Each major delta lobe in the Mississippi River system is active for about 1000–1500 years.
Pretense in Prediction: Simulation and Understanding Minds

Our “folk psychological capacities” have been among the most actively investigated cognitive abilities in recent philosophy and psychology. These capacities include the ability to describe each other in intentional terms, the capacity to produce and assess explanations couched in intentional terms, and the capacity to predict other people’s behavior. It’s easy to see why these capacities have generated such interest, for they are the means by which we understand other minds. For the last several decades, the dominant explanation of our folk psychological capacities has been the “theory-theory”. According to the theory-theory, people have an internally represented body of information (or perhaps mis-information) about psychological processes and the ways in which these processes give rise to behavior. This body of information is used in predicting and explaining behavior (Fodor 1987). Thus, the process of predicting and explaining the behavior of other people is analogous to the process of predicting and explaining the behavior of middle sized physical objects. In that latter process, it is generally assumed, we make use of an internalized body of information (and mis-information) about physical processes, a “folk physics” (McCloskey 1983, Stich 1996).
Problems in reservoir trophic-state classification and implications for reservoir management

Trophic-state classification methods developed for natural lakes are applied routinely to impoundments for management purposes. However, the trophic-state classification of a reservoir can often depend more on the variable selected for the basis of the classification or on the classification method used, than on the ‘true’ trophic status of the impoundment. Additionally, the application of common trophic-state classification schemes to reservoir ecosystems is often inappropriate because of features common to river impoundments that are usually not present in natural lakes. While reservoir limnologists may be aware that reservoir trophic-state classification is problematic, water-resources managers are not, and consequently, many reservoirs may be ineffectively or inappropriately managed.
Mutant cytoskeletal and ECM peptides sensitive to the ST14 protease are associated with a worse outcome for glioblastoma multiforme.

Abstract We previously identified a set of the most frequently mutated cytoskeleton- and extracellular matrix-related proteins (CECMPs) in numerous cancer datasets. In this report, we used a bioinformatics approach to assess the impact of amino acid (AA) substitutions on the sensitivity of CECMPs to the ST14 protease (matriptase I), a transmembrane serine protease previously implicated in cancer development. Results indicated that AA substitutions in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) CECMPs are skewed toward increased resistance to the ST14 protease, in comparison to the wild-type peptide sequence. Furthermore, the protease resistant AA substitutions represent relatively high binding affinities to HLA class I proteins, when assessing the binding specificities using HLA class I alleles matched to the source of the mutant AA. Moreover, samples representing AA substitutions that increased protease sensitivity also represented reduced overall and disease-free survival periods for patients with glioblastoma. To assess tumor specimen immunogenicity, we identified T-cell receptor (TCR) V(D)J recombinations in GBM exome files. The overlap between ST14 protease sensitive mutant barcodes and the TCR V(D)J recombination read positive barcodes represented significantly reduced survival.
Building the Next Generation of Implementation Science Careers to Advance Health Equity

Rapid advancements in translational research have produced innovative clinical discoveries and evidence-based interventions that are ready for uptake in real-world settings, creating vast opportunities and challenges for implementation science. However, there is an inadequate research workforce to study effective strategies and delivery of implementation to advance the field. Novel career development initiatives will build scholars for the next generation of implementation science to bridge research to practice for diverse populations to advance health equity, specifically with a strategic focus on heart, lung, blood and sleep diseases and conditions. Along with traditional mentoring and curricula, research training includes state-of-the-art approaches using complex methods and multi-disciplinary collaborations between researchers, practice settings, and diverse communities. Implementation science scholars strive not only to decrease the lag time between the discovery of evidence-based interventions and successful implementation but also how to advance health equity and to reduce disparities for underserved populations that suffer disproportionally.
Preparing Teachers With Sociocultural Knowledge in Literacy: A Literature Review:

Although the call for teachers to address the demographic imperative has existed for decades, recently, there has been an uptake of frameworks of multicultural education, culturally responsive peda...
Timing and speed of internationalization: Evidence from African banks

Abstract This study investigates the factors that influence the timing and speed of internationalization, using data from corporate annual reports, websites, and media from 23 top banks in Africa, over the period ranging from 2010 to 2018. The findings suggest that entry timing is influenced by a firm's ownership structure and board members' experience and diversity. The findings also show three factors that increase the speed of internationalization: (1) learning from observing trends in the banking industry, extending organizational capabilities to explore new markets and exploiting these capabilities to capitalize on identified opportunities; (2) following the African diaspora specifically in developed countries; and (3) acquiring assets from other banks as well as entering strategic alliances with foreign partners. The internationalization of African banks presents similarities but also fundamental differences with multinationals from developed countries and those from emerging economies. Theoretical implications of the findings are discussed along with future research directions.
Topological Insulators Constructed from Random Point Sets

The discovery that the band structure of electronic insulators may be topologically non-trivial has revealed distinct phases of electronic matter with novel properties. Recently, mechanical lattices have been found to have similarly rich structure in their phononic excitations, giving rise to protected uni-directional edge modes. In all these cases, however, as well as in other topological metamaterials, the underlying structure was finely tuned, be it through periodicity, quasi-periodicity or isostaticity. Here we show that amorphous Chern insulators can be readily constructed from arbitrary underlying structures, including hyperuniform, jammed, quasi-crystalline, and uniformly random point sets. While our findings apply to mechanical and electronic systems alike, we focus on networks of interacting gyroscopes as a model system. Local decorations control the topology of the vibrational spectrum, endowing amorphous structures with protected edge modes—with a chirality of choice. Using a real-space generalization of the Chern number, we investigate the topology of our structures numerically, analytically and experimentally. The robustness of our approach enables the topological design and self-assembly of non-crystalline topological metamaterials on the micro and macro scale.
A stochastic framework for hydraulic performance assessment of complex water distribution networks: Application to connectivity detection problems

Abstract This paper is concerned with the hydraulic performance assessment of large scale water distribution networks in presence of uncertainty. In particular, the associate connectivity detection problem is examined in detail. For this purpose, a Bayesian system identification methodology is combined with an efficient hydraulic simulation model. A number of hydraulic model classes are defined as potential connectivity events. Based on information from flow rates in the pipes, the proposed updating technique provides estimates of the most probable connectivity scenarios. Such scenarios correspond to the model classes that maximize their evidences or posterior probabilities. The effectiveness of the proposed identification framework is illustrated by applying the connectivity detection approach to a real water distribution system.
Spontaneous recanalization of a total occlusion of an infrarenal abdominal aorta after left axillary-bifemoral bypass.

Abstract Acute aortic occlusion is an infrequent clinical event with high morbidity and mortality. Management is determined by the cause of the occlusion, with thromboembolectomy used for embolic events and bypass for thrombotic events. After bypass, recanalization of a total aortic occlusion has been sparsely reported. We present a case of a total occlusion of an infrarenal abdominal aorta that was managed surgically with a left axillary-bifemoral bypass. Imaging performed 6 months postoperatively revealed a spontaneously recanalized aorta and occluded bypass graft.
General route to design polymer molecular weight distributions through flow chemistry

The properties of a polymer are known to be intrinsically related to its molecular weight distribution (MWD); however, previous methodologies of MWD control do not use a design and result in arbitrary shaped MWDs. Here we report a precise design to synthesis protocol for producing a targeted MWD design with a simple to use, and chemistry agnostic computer-controlled tubular flow reactor. To support the development of this protocol, we constructed general reactor design rules by combining fluid mechanical principles, polymerization kinetics, and experiments. The ring opening polymerization of lactide, the anionic polymerization of styrene, and the ring opening metathesis polymerization are used as model polymerizations to develop the reactor design rules and synthesize MWD profiles. The derivation of a mathematical model enables the quantitative prediction of the experimental results, and this model provides a tool to explore the limits of any MWD design protocol. The properties of a polymer are known to be intrinsically related to its molecular weight distribution. Here the authors use a design to synthesis protocol for producing a targeted molecular weight distribution with a computer controlled tubular flow reactor.
The early frog gets eaten

![Graphic][1] If a giant grizzly bear was to pop out from behind a bush and start approaching you, your first reaction would probably be to run immediately for your life in the hopes of reaching safety as quickly as possible. However, when a black-spotted pond frog sees an approaching
Defending the state from digital Deceit: the reflexive securitization of deepfake

Recent revelation of disinformation campaigns conducted by external adversaries on social media platforms has triggered anxiety among western liberal democracies. One focus of this anxiety has been...
An educational intervention to promote civility in nursing: a pilot study

Objectives Nursing students are ill equipped to handle uncivil situations in the workplace. The purpose of this project was to determine if providing students with education about identifying and addressing incivility would alter how students perceived their ability to recognize and address uncivil situations when encountered. Methods This pre-post-test comparative pilot study used the Generalized Self Efficacy Scale along with The Confidence Scale to measure student self-efficacy and confidence before and after the receipt of educational interventions on recognizing and addressing uncivil behaviors. Results The statistical analysis reveals an increase in both self-efficacy and confidence scores in recognizing and addressing uncivil behaviors following the educational interventions (p=0.000, p<0.001, respectively). Conclusions Educating pre-licensure nursing students about incivility increases self-efficacy and confidence levels in pre-licensure nursing students to recognize and address uncivil behaviors when encountered.
Should WEE(1) CHK(1) in on the FAM(122A)ily

Li et al. (2020) elucidate the resistance mechanisms to small-molecule inhibitors targeting the G2/M cell cycle checkpoint kinase, CHK1, in a variety of non-small cell lung cancer cell lines using CRISPR-mediated genetic approaches and identify biomarkers of response.
Cervical Cancer and Human Papillomavirus: Prevention and Screening

Cervical cancer screening is an example of a successful preventative strategy that markedly reduces the incidence of invasive cervical cancer (ICC) and mortality from ICC among women. Evolving screening guidelines utilizing cytology from Pap tests and high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) detection have improved the identification of precursor lesions which are treated to prevent the progression to ICC. Guidelines differ by patient age and immune status, but all persons with a cervix of ages 21–65 years, regardless of sexual orientation, sexual history, or gender identity, need to be screened regularly. Understanding the natural history of HPV and cervical abnormalities is essential for the proper triage of patients with positive testing to either repeat testing or referral for colposcopy. The HPV vaccine prevents infection with hrHPV and holds promise to significantly reduce the future incidence of cervical cancer and other cancers caused by hrHPV in men and women. Significant disparities exist in the United States and worldwide in HPV vaccination rates, cervical cancer screening rates, and the evaluation, treatment, and follow-up of abnormal findings in women. These disparities continue to allow cervical cancer to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality for women worldwide.
Bidirectional Associations between Physical Activity and Sleep in Early-Elementary-Age Latino Children with Obesity.

Low-income Latino children are at high risk for obesity and associated comorbidities. Considering the health benefits of proper sleep habits and physical activity, understanding the patterns, or the relationship between these modifiable factors may help guide intervention strategies to improve overall health in this population. Thus, the purpose was to investigate bidirectional associations between physical activity and sleep among Latino children who are overweight/obese. Twenty-three children (boys, 70%; overweight, 17%; obese, 83%) (age 7.9 ± 1.4 years) wore activity monitors on their wrist for 6 consecutive days (comprising 138 total observations). Hierarchical linear modeling evaluated temporal associations between physical activity (light physical activity, LPA; moderate to vigorous activity, MVPA) and sleep (duration and efficiency). Although there was no association between MVPA and sleep (p > 0.05), daytime LPA was negatively associated with sleep duration that night (estimate ± SE = −10.77 ± 5.26; p = 0.04), and nighttime sleep efficiency was positively associated with LPA the next day (estimate ± SE = 13.29 ± 6.16; p = 0.03). In conclusion, increased LPA may decrease sleep duration that night, but increasing sleep efficiency may increase LPA the following day. Although further investigation is required, these results suggest that improving sleep efficiency may increase the level of physical activity reached among Latino children who are overweight/obese.
Safety Devices for Firearms

Safety devices are the cornerstone of safe firearm storage, which is known to reduce pediatric injuries and death from firearms. Multiple types of safety devices exist including cable locks, gun safes, or lock boxes. More recently, electronic systems have been developed that directly secure a firearm without an external device and are often referred to as “smart guns.” Approved safety devices and their compatibility with a given firearm are catalogued through a database maintained by the California Attorney General’s Office. Recent public health studies have indicated communities have preferences for what types of firearm safety devices they most prefer and are likely to use, which include gun safes or biometric gun safes that require the “fingerprint” of an authorized user. Additionally, studies have indicated educational material for safety devices is readily available and community events can effectively distribute safety devices and improve their use.
From Curriculum Demands to Genre Pedagogy: Bilingual Adaptation of Reading to Learn for an L2 Lesson Planning

Reading to Learn (R2L) is a literacy methodology and teacher development program inspired by Systemic Functional Linguistics. Recently, it has been adapted for second/foreign language courses with bilingual teaching (KARTIKA-NINGSIH; ROSE, 2021; RAMIREZ, 2020; KARTIKA-NINGSIH, 2016). Although R2L has successfully expanded worldwide, its impact on textbooks, school programs, and educators has also been uneven. To describe how these conceptual inconsistencies play out, this article contrasts a textbook methodology partially informed by genre theory when applied in an L2 English class in Colombia with a recent bilingual adaptation of R2L in an L2 Spanish class in the United States. This latter case is based on genre theory and R2L pedagogy (ROSE, 2018a) and bilingualism approaches (RAMIREZ, 2020; LESSOW-HURLEY, 2005; LABERGE; SAMUELS, 1974). Findings reveal a prominent pedagogical gap between the reading and the writing sections of the partially informed genre-based methodology but a robust linguistic scaffold in the bilingual R2L experience. The resulting recount exemplifies detailed and annotated lesson planning for teachers interested in thoroughly applying the latter methodology, especially for L2 settings. Preceded by some similar interventions, this experience confirms that the integration of both native and foreign languages within the R2L methodology makes it a promising approach.
Stakeholder-informed conceptual framework for financial burden among adolescents and young adults with cancer

Background Cancer and its treatments can result in substantial financial burden that may be especially distressing for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) since they are at a developmental stage focused on completing one's education and establishing independence. The purpose of this study was to develop a conceptual model of financial burden among AYA cancer patients to inform development of a financial burden measure. Methods In-depth concept elicitation interviews were conducted with a purposive-selected stakeholder sample (36 AYAs and 36 AYA oncology health care providers). The constant comparative method was used to identify themes that illustrate AYAs' experience of financial burden by stakeholder groups. Results Eleven financial burden themes emerged: (1) impact of socioeconomic status and age; (2) significant cancer costs; (3) indirect cost "ripple effects"; (4) limited awareness of costs (adolescents); (5) emotional impact; (6) feeling overwhelmed navigating the health care system; (7) treatment decision modifications; (8) reducing spending; (9) coping strategies; (10) financial support; and (11) long-lasting impact. The conceptual model highlights the importance of material, psychosocial, and behavioral domains of financial burden with an emphasis on phase along the cancer continuum and developmental stage in the experience of financial burden for AYAs. Conclusions Issues presented in the voice of AYA patients and providers highlight the profound impact of financial burden in this survivor group. The next step in this work will be to develop and test a patient-reported measure of financial burden among AYA cancer survivors.
INCREMENTAL BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION COSTS FOR HIGHWAY COST ALLOCATION

The procedures and results of an incremental load analysis of bridge construction costs that consisted of the design and pricing of 960 bridges were documented. These 960 bridge type, load, and span combinations were composed of 11 different bridge types ranging in span from 9 to 72 m (30 to 240 ft) and designed for loads ranging from H2.5 to HS25. The bridge type and span combinations included in this factorial reflect current national design and construction practices, as revealed by statistical summaries obtained from the National Bridge Inventory data base. The incremental bridge cost results are important inputs for the highway bridge cost allocation procedures carried out at the federal and state levels. In addition to the bridge cost results, moment ratios of live load to dead load were recorded during this bridge design exercise. The moment ratios obtained in such an exercise can contribute significantly to policy evaluations--especially those that attempt to define the economic impacts of vehicle size and weight changes on bridges at the highway network level.
In Vitro Degradation Behavior of Ternary Mg-Zn-Se and Mg-Zn-Cu Alloysas Biomaterials

In this study, the corrosion behavior of Mg-Zn-Se and Mg-Zn-Cu alloys was investigated to evaluate their corrosion behavior related to use as implantable biomaterials. The corrosion behavior of these alloys and a commercially available Mg-Zn alloy were examined using static solution electrochemical testing, dynamic solution gravimetric testing, ion leaching testing, and microscopic evaluation. Fluctuations in the pH of the Dulbecco’s Modified Eagles Medium (DMEM) used for the gravimetric and ion leaching immersion testing were also recorded over the 30-day duration to assess whether the media conditions induced by the alloy degradation would permit for cellular survival. Weight loss experimentation and electrochemical tests revealed the Mg-Zn-Cu alloy to have the greatest corrosion rate.
The associations of teacher professional characteristics, school environmental factors, and state testing policy on social studies educators’ instructional authority

Abstract Knowledge of pedagogy and social studies content influences a teacher׳s decision making and helps teachers conduct sound instructional practices despite the influence of high-stakes testing policies. Using national data from the Survey of the Status of Social Studies (S4), this study examined the associations of teachers׳ professional characteristics, school environmental factors, and state testing policy on self-reported levels of authority that secondary level social studies teachers (grades 6–12) hold over key classroom tasks. Through hierarchical multiple regression analysis, key findings from this study indicated that greater minority enrollments are associated with lower levels of instructional authority. Teachers who worked in states where a state-mandated social studies test was administered reported less freedom to choose what to teach and how to teach than those in non-testing states. Also, this study showed that in-field status, the type of licensure, and years of teaching experience are important factors in exercising social studies teachers׳ instructional authority (e.g., their ability to balance effectively the demands of state-mandated reforms with teaching for meaningful student learning). This study recommends that schools with high minority enrollments, especially if these districts exist in a high stakes testing environment, should invest in teachers with high-quality social studies preparation.
Studies in Individuality: Can Students, Teachers and Schools Be Determined from Children’s Handwriting?

The individuality of handwriting is the principal underpinning of forensic handwriting examination. Studies of individuality have considered different statistical extremes to obtain handwriting samples. The first is a representative population drawn from a country. The second is a population of twins– so as to reflect genetic similarity. A third approach is to study whether teachers and schools have an influence on individuality. This paper presents preliminary results of individuality studies with data from children’s handwriting, in grades 2–4, to identify the school, teacher and student. Considering the single handwritten word and we evaluate the performances of two methods, one based on feature values assigned by human questioned document examiners and the other based on automatically computing image features. Results are given for determining the school, the teacher and the student from images using restricted Boltzmann machines. Results of identifying the school with human assigned features and support vector machines are also given.
ASSOCIATED HIGGS BOSON PRODUCTION WITH HEAVY QUARKS

The production of a Higgs boson in association with a pair of e quarks will play a very important role at both hadron and lepton colliders. We review the status of theoretical predictions and their relevance to Higgs boson studies, with particular emphasis on the recently calculated NLO QCD corrections to the inclusive cross section for p{bar p}, pp {yields} t{bar t}h. We conclude by briefly discussing the case of exclusive b{bar b}h production and the potential of this process in revealing signals of new physics beyond the Standard Model.
Précis of the situated self

The riddle posed by the double nature of the ego certainly lies beyond [the limits of science]. On the one hand, I am a real individual man, born by a mother and destined to carrying out real and psychical acts (far too many, I may think, if boarding a subway during an hour). On the other hand, I am “vision” open to reason, a self-penetrating light, immanent sense-giving consciousness, or how ever you may call it, and as such unique. (Weyl, Address, 3)
Growth and Convergence in European Transition Economies : The Impact of Foreign Direct Investment

Foreign direct investment (FDI), with its growth-enhancing capacity, has played a significant role in setting the transition economies onto the path of convergence with their more affluent neighbors, which is enhanced by their recent membership in one of the richest clubs in the world, the European Union. The differential impact of FDI in terms of its sectoral composition on productivity and efficiency of the host country, as well as its propensity to stimulate institution building, are changing both the economic and political landscapes in the Central and Eastern European and Baltic region. The implicit requirements that FDI poses for the receiving country together with the EU accession-driven reforms fit together in a mutually reinforcing system that is helping the goals of transition and the convergence process. The achievement of both goals is seen as the best guarantor of peace and security in the Central and Eastern European and Baltic region.
Cooperative Games with Transferable Utility

Here, we introduce the concept of a cooperative game with transferable utility and analyze the relationship between cooperative and noncooperative games. We discuss properties of cooperative games and illustrate them with several classes of well-known games including market games, cost allocation games, and simple games. We also discuss the assumptions behind games with transferable utility and compare them to games without transferable utility. Finally, we mention briefly a number of solution concepts for cooperative games and summarize recent extensions of cooperative game theory. Keywords: cooperative game theory; transferable utility; simple games; characteristic function
Characterization of the secretion pathway of the collagen adhesin EmaA of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans

The extracellular matrix protein adhesin A (EmaA) surface antennae-like structures of the periodontal pathogen Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans are composed of three identical protein monomers. Recently, we have demonstrated that the protein is synthesized with an extended signal peptide of 56 amino acids necessary for membrane targeting and protein translocation. In this study, EmaA secretion was demonstrated to be reliant on a chaperone-dependent secretion pathway. Deletion of secB partially reduced but did not abolish the amount of EmaA in the membrane. This observation was attributed to an increase in the synthesis of DnaK in the ΔsecB strain. Overexpression of a DnaK substitution mutant (A174T), with diminished activity, in the ΔsecB strain further reduced the amount of EmaA in the membrane. Expression of dnaK A174T in the wild-type strain did not affect the amount of EmaA in the membrane when grown under optimal growth conditions at 37°C. However, EmaA was found to be reduced when this strain was grown at heat-shock temperature. A chromosomal deletion of amino acids 16-39 of the EmaA extended signal peptide, transformed with either the wild-type or dnaK A174T-expressing plasmid, did not affect the amount of EmaA in the membrane. In addition, the level of EmaA in a ΔsecB/emaA(-) double mutant strain expressing EmaAΔ16-39 was unchanged when grown at both temperatures. The data suggest that chaperones are required for the targeting of EmaA to the membrane and a specific region of the signal peptide is necessary for secretion under stress conditions.
Structural Organization of the Human Folylpoly-γ-glutamate Synthetase Gene: Evidence for a Single Genomic Locus

The cytotoxicity, and probably the selectivity, of folate antimetabolites depend upon the expression of the enzyme folylpoly-γ-glutamate synthetase in tumor cells. Evidence for the existence of multiple forms of this enzyme and the need to define the control mechanisms determinant of expression levels in normal and neoplastic cells has focused attention on the gene(s) encoding these forms. The organization of the genomic locus for the human folylpoly-γ-glutamate synthetase ( FPGS ) gene has been determined. The complete 2256 nucleotides of cDNA for the 5′-untranslated region, mitochondrial leader sequence, coding region, and 3′-untranslated region were distributed on 15 exons stretching over 11.2 kb of genomic DNA. All of the restriction fragments found in diploid human genomic DNA could be accounted for by fragments contained on the isolated genomic clones. Likewise, Southern analysis of the transfected human genomic DNA that complemented the FPGS- phenotype of a hamster cell line indicated that the same gene had been integrated in all of three independently derived transfectants. We conclude that the genomic locus that we now report appears to be the only gene encoding FPGS-related sequences in the human complement.
Shear ductility and toughenability study of highly cross-linked epoxy/polyethersulphone

The objective of the present study was to determine whether the ductility and toughenability of a highly cross-linked epoxy resin, which has a high glass transition temperature, T g, can be enhanced by the incorporation of a ductile thermoplastic resin. Diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) cured by diamino diphenyl sulphone (DDS) was used as the base resin. Polyethersulphone (PES) was used as the thermoplastic modifier. Fracture toughness and shear ductility tests were performed to characterize the materials. The fracture toughness of the DDS-cured epoxy was not enhanced by simply adding PES. However, in the presence of rubber particles as a third component, the toughness of the PES–rubber-modified epoxy was found to improve with increasing PES content. The toughening mechanisms were determined to be rubber cavitation, followed by plastic deformation of the matrix resin. It was also determined, through uniaxial compression tests, that the shear ductility of the DDS-cured epoxy was enhanced by the incorporation of PES. These results imply that the intrinsic ductility, which had been enhanced by the PES addition, was only activated under the stress state change due to the cavitation of the rubber particles. The availability of increasing matrix ductility seems to be responsible for the increase in toughness.