cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ablation dominated implosion dynamics of aluminum and stainless steel nested cylindrical wire arrays

The results of experiments with combined aluminum (Al) and stainless steel (SS) alloy 304, nested wire arrays from the 1 MA COBRA generator at Cornell University are presented. The loads studied consisted of a 6 mm diameter inner array and a 13 mm diameter outer array with a different material in each array: SS or aluminum. Al implodes before SS in all loads studied, even when Al was on the inner array. The new wire ablation dynamic model and spectroscopic modeling are used to interpret these data. The observed implosion dynamics are likely a result of the higher ablation rate of Al. These initial results suggest that combining wire materials with different ablation rates in wire array loads could be developed into a useful technique for x-ray pulse shaping and radiation yield optimization.
State-Mandated Performance THEME Evaluation of Beginning Teachers: Implications for Teacher Educators Roberta M. Woolever

Generalizing from efforts in a number of states to mandate teacher excellence, Woolever creates a scenario describing what could happen as part of the efforts to "assure" quality teachers. Based on...
Resident strategies for making a life in a nursing home: a qualitative study

Aim To identify strategies that older adults use to adapt to live in long-term care. Background The use of long-term care services has risen and this trend is expected to continue as the population reaches old age. Moving into a long-term care setting has been documented internationally as an overwhelming life change for many older adults. It has been observed that residents adjust differently over time, but the basis for these differences needs further exploration. Design A qualitative design using grounded theory method was employed. Methods A total of in-depth interviews were conducted in October 2008–February 2009 with a sample of 21 participants. Participants ranged in age from 65–93 years, 81% women and 19% men; mainly Caucasian with one African American and one Hispanic. Length of stay ranged from 3 days to over 9 years living in long-term care so that all stages of adjustment were included in the study. Ground theory method was used to analyse the data. Findings The results of this study yielded 21 facilitative strategies. The core category identified was personal resiliency, which served as the underpinning for the strategies used by the participants. Strategies were identified in making the decision to move into long-term care and in day-to-day living. Conclusion Understanding the strategies that facilitate residents to make a successful transition to long-term care life will assist nurses to intervene in ways that are supportive. The strategies identified in this study may be used to develop interventions for residents that are having difficulty living in long-term care. Further exploration of how resiliency has an impact on strategies used by residents is clinically relevant, but further research is needed.
On the solution of mixed-integer nonlinear programming models for computer aided molecular design.

This paper addresses the efficient solution of computer aided molecular design (CAMD) problems, which have been posed as mixed-integer nonlinear programming models. The models of interest are those in which the number of linear constraints far exceeds the number of nonlinear constraints, and with most variables participating in the nonconvex terms. As a result global optimization methods are needed. A branch-and-bound algorithm (BB) is proposed that is specifically tailored to solving such problems. In a conventional BB algorithm, branching is performed on all the search variables that appear in the nonlinear terms. This translates to a large number of node traversals. To overcome this problem, we have proposed a new strategy for branching on a set of linear branching functions, which depend linearly on the search variables. This leads to a significant reduction in the dimensionality of the search space. The construction of linear underestimators for a class of functions is also presented. The CAMD problem that is considered is the design of optimal solvents to be used as cleaning agents in lithographic printing.
Students' Perceptions of Relationships between Social Studies Instruction and Cognitive Strategies.

AbstractThis study investigated the relationship between elementary students’ use of cognitive strategies during social studies critical thinking tasks and their perceptions of classroom instruction. The subjects were 141 third-, fourth-, and fifth-grade students. Students were first given a social studies critical thinking task and then were asked to determine what cognitive strategies they used to approach and solve the problem. The students also assessed their teachers’ strategy instruction and generic classroom instruction. Results of the canonical correlation analysis between the set of student strategies and teacher behaviors yielded four significant canonical coefficients. The combination of specific instruction in strategies and generic teacher behaviors influenced the students’ choice of strategies during social studies critical thinking.
Management of cerebral aneurysms: Further facts and additional myths☆

In 1985 we reviewed 17 misconceptions or myths surrounding the treatment of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage that may contribute to the dismal outcome from these lesions. Since that time, significant new data, or facts, have become available regarding the influence of early aneurysm surgery on rebleeding, the efficacy of treatments for symptomatic arterial narrowing, improvements in surgical techniques such as temporary arterial clipping, and measures to protect the brain from ischemic injury. However, additional myths have become apparent which continue to limit our ability to improve the outcome of these patients. We review these facts and myths and discuss management of the patient with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.
The role and structure of a postradical prostatectomy penile rehabilitation program

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common after radical prostatectomy (RP). ED has a negative impact on health-related quality of life. Penile rehabilitation is defined as the use of any drug or device at or after RP to maximize erectile function recovery. The purpose of penile rehabilitation is the prevention of corpus cavernosal smooth muscle structural alterations not only to maximize the chances of a man having recovery of functional erections but also returning him to his preoperative erectile function level. Appreciating the value of penile rehabilitation requires understanding five concepts: the pathophysiology of ED after RP, cavernosal oxygenation, venous leak, and both the animal and human data supporting this strategy. This paper gives an overview of these factors and attempts to give a common-sense, practical guide to a rehabilitation program.
Platitudes in mathematics

The term ‘continuous’ in real analysis wasn’t given an adequate formal definition until 1817. However, important theorems about continuity were proven long before that. How was this possible? In this paper, I introduce and refine a proposed answer to this question, derived from the work of Frank Jackson, David Lewis and other proponents of the ‘Canberra plan’. In brief, the proposal is that before 1817 the meaning of the term ‘continuous’ was determined by a number of ‘platitudes’ which had some special epistemic status.
Flexible robotic demanufacturing using real time tool path generation

Abstract The need for new demanufacturing technologies exists due to a growing population of end of life electronic products. The demanufacturing method presented in this work is unique from disassembly because destructive methods are employed; thus, eliminating the need to account for precedence relationships. Furthermore, the new demanufacturing method employs cutting operations but differs from traditional machining operations due to the degree of flexibility required. To address this very high scale flexibility, a unique prototype flexible demanufacturing work cell has been established. Unique contributions of this flexible demanufacturing method include a new system model that utilizes a product surface model and a robot tool position model to actively generate real time tool paths. The model uses manifolds to reduce the tool path generation function to navigation of the surface manifold. Tool path generation occurs in three stages: machining operation sequencing, active tool path generation and active product avoidance. A case study of the demanufacture of mobile phones is presented to illustrate the flexible robotic demanufacturing operation. The case study shows that a new flexible robotic demanufacturing process has been achieved that requires no predetermined information on the product surface geometry.
Comparative Safety of Atorvastatin 80 mg Versus 10 mg Derived from Analysis of 49 Completed Trials in 14,236 Patients

Atorvastatin has been shown to reduce coronary events and revascularization procedures in patients with multiple risk factors for coronary heart disease. Recent studies with atorvastatin 80 mg support the overall safety of this dose during long-term treatment. However, physicians appear reluctant to use high doses of statins. A retrospective analysis of pooled data from 49 clinical trials of atorvastatin in 14,236 patients treated for an average period of 2 weeks to 52 months was conducted. The study compared the safety of atorvastatin 10 mg (n = 7,258), atorvastatin 80 mg (n = 4,798), and placebo (n = 2,180) and included analyses on treatment-associated adverse events; nonserious and serious adverse events related to the musculoskeletal, hepatic, and renal systems; the incidence of elevations of creatine kinase >10 times the upper limit of normal (ULN); and hepatic transaminases >3 times ULN. Percentages of patients experiencing ≥1 adverse event were similar across all 3 groups. Withdrawals due to treatment-related adverse events were observed in 2.4%, 1.8%, and 1.2% of patients in the atorvastatin 10 mg, atorvastatin 80 mg, and placebo groups, respectively. Serious adverse events were rare and seldom led to treatment withdrawal with any dose. Treatment-associated myalgia was observed in 1.4%, 1.5%, and 0.7% of patients in the atorvastatin 10 mg, atorvastatin 80 mg, and placebo groups, respectively. No cases of rhabdomyolysis were reported in any group. Persistent elevations in hepatic transaminases >3 times ULN were observed in 0.1%, 0.6%, and 0.2% of patients in the atorvastatin 10 mg, atorvastatin 80 mg, and placebo groups, respectively. The incidence of treatment-associated adverse events for atorvastatin 80 mg was similar to that of atorvastatin 10 mg and placebo. In conclusion, the results of this analysis support the positive safety profile of atorvastatin at the highest dose.
Cooper-Pair Tunneling in Junctions of Singlet Quantum Hall States and Superconductors

We propose tunnel junctions of a Hall bar and a superconducting lead for observing Cooper-pair tunneling into singlet fractional quantum Hall edge states. These tunnel junctions provide a natural means of extracting precise information of the spin polarization and the filling factor of the state. The low energy regime of one of the setups is governed by a novel quantum entangled fixed point.
Growth and locational impacts for housing in small communities

Many Americans believe that small rural communities are ideal places to live. They assume that small rural communities offer a safe environment, a supportive community, and affordable housing. In contrast, research indicates that rural households are more likely to live in unsuitable or inadequate housing and have lower incomes, making affordable housing difficult to obtain. Although there are data highlighting regional or urban-rural differences, very little research has been conducted on the housing situation among small rural communities. The research presented here explores housing availability and affordability in 589 Midwestern communities. Findings indicate that, based on the community's growth and location, there are significant quantitative housing affordability and availability differences among small communities. However, these differences were contradicted by focus group discussions that indicated key similarities of housing concerns across small communities. The findings have potential impacts for public policy implementation in small communities.
Stress, depression and medication nonadherence in diabetes: test of the exacerbating and buffering effects of family support

Stressors and depressive symptoms have been associated with medication nonadherence among adults with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). We tested whether these associations were exacerbated by obstructive family behaviors or buffered by supportive family behaviors in a sample of 192 adults with T2DM and low socioeconomic status using unadjusted and adjusted regression models. We found support for the exacerbating hypothesis. Stressors and nonadherence were only associated at higher levels of obstructive family behaviors (interaction AOR = 1.12, p = .002). Similarly, depressive symptoms and nonadherence were only associated at higher levels of obstructive family behaviors (interaction AOR = 3.31, p = .002). When participants reported few obstructive family behaviors, neither stressors nor depressive symptoms were associated with nonadherence. We did not find support for the buffering hypothesis; stressors and depressive symptoms were associated with nonadherence regardless of supportive family behaviors. Nonadherent patients experiencing stressors and/or major depressive symptoms may benefit from interventions that reduce obstructive family behaviors.
The Role of Constitutive Nitric-oxide Synthase in Ultraviolet B Light-induced Nuclear Factor κB Activity *

NF-κB is a transcription factor involved in many signaling pathways that also plays an important role in UV-induced skin tumorigenesis. UV radiation can activate NF-κB, but the detailed mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we provided evidence that the activation of constitutive nitric-oxide synthase plays a role in regulation of IκB reduction and NF-κB activation in human keratinocyte HaCaT cells in early phase (within 6 h) post-UVB. Treating the cells with l-NAME, a selective inhibitor of constitutive nitric-oxide synthase (cNOS), can partially reverse the IκB reduction and inhibit the DNA binding activity as well as nuclear translocation of NF-κB after UVB radiation. A luciferase reporter assay indicates that UVB-induced NF-κB activation is totally diminished in cNOS null cells. The cNOS-mediated reduction of IκB is likely due to the imbalance of nitric oxide/peroxynitrite because treating the cells with lower (50 μm), but not higher (100–500 μm), concentration of S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) can reverse the effect of l-NAME in partial restore IκB level post-UVB. Our data also showed that NF-κB activity was required for maintaining a stable IκB kinase α subunit (IKKα) level because treating the cells with NF-κB or cNOS inhibitors could reduce IKKα level upon UVB radiation. In addition, our data demonstrated that although NF-κB protects cells from UVB-induced death, its pro-survival activity was likely neutralized by the pro-death activity of peroxynitrite after UVB radiation.
Thermal imaging technique to detect delaminations in CFRP-plated concrete

A thermographic technique for detecting disbonds and delaminations in concrete beams reinforced with bonded sheets of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastic is described. Concrete slab test specimens are fabricated with seeded flaws of various thickness and depth from the surface. The specimens are briefly heated with a projector heat source and infrared images are captured. Digital image processing techniques are applied in order to improve image quality. Flaws are identified. Advantages and limitations of this method are discussed.
Structural defects within the carbamate tunnel of carbamoyl phosphate synthetase.

The X-ray crystal structure of carbamoyl phosphate synthetase (CPS) from Escherichia coli has unveiled the existence of two molecular tunnels within the heterodimeric enzyme. These two interdomain tunnels connect the three distinct active sites within this remarkably complex protein and apparently function as conduits for the transport of unstable reaction intermediates between successive active sites. The operational significance of the ammonia tunnel for the migration of NH3 is supported experimentally by isotope competition and protein modification. The passage of carbamate through the carbamate tunnel has now been assessed by the insertion of site-directed structural blockages within this tunnel. Gln-22, Ala-23, and Gly-575 from the large subunit of CPS were substituted by mutagenesis with bulkier amino acids in an attempt to obstruct and/or hinder the passage of the unstable intermediate through the carbamate tunnel. The structurally modified proteins G575L, A23L/G575S, and A23L/G575L exhibited a sub...
Modulation of protein release from photocrosslinked networks by gelatin microparticles

Injectable delivery systems are attractive as vehicles for localized delivery of therapeutics especially in the context of regenerative medicine. In this study, photocrosslinked polyanhydride (PA) networks were modified by incorporation of microparticles to modulate long-term delivery of macromolecules. The in vitro release of two model proteins (horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and bovine serum albumin labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC-BSA)) were evaluated from networks composed of sebacic acid dimethacrylate (MSA), 1,6-bis-carboxyphenoxyhexane dimethacrylate (MCPH), poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA), and calcium carbonate (CaCO3), supplemented with gelatin microparticles or sodium chloride crystals. Prior to incorporation into the networks, proteins were formulated into granules by dilution with a cyclodextrin excipient and gelatin-based wet-granulation. Protein release was modulated by incorporation of microparticles into photocrosslinked PA networks, presumably by enabling aqueous channels through the matrix. Furthermore, a dual release system has been demonstrated by incorporation of protein in both the PA matrix and the gelatin microparticles. These results suggest that microparticle incorporation into the photocrosslinked PA system may be a useful strategy to modulate protein release in injectable delivery systems for the long-term delivery of macromolecules. These composites present an interesting class of materials for bone regeneration applications.
Experiments on cold-formed steel columns with holes

Abstract The objective of this paper is to observe and quantify the relationship between elastic buckling and the tested response of cold-formed steel columns with holes. Compression tests were conducted on 24 short and intermediate length cold-formed steel columns with and without slotted web holes. For each specimen, a shell finite element eigenbuckling analysis was also conducted such that the influence of the boundary conditions and the hole on local, distortional, and global elastic buckling response could also be captured. Slotted web holes may modify the local and distortional elastic buckling half-wavelengths, and may also change the critical elastic buckling loads. Experimentally, slotted web holes are shown to have a minimal influence on the tested ultimate strength in the specimens considered, although post-peak ductility is decreased in some cases. Tangible connections are observed between elastic buckling and load–displacement response during the tests, including mode switching between local and distortional buckling. The columns are tested with friction-bearing boundary conditions where the columns ends are milled flat and parallel, and bear directly on steel platens. These boundary conditions, which greatly speed specimen preparation, are determined to be viable for evaluating the tested response of short and intermediate length columns, although the post-peak response of intermediate length specimens must be considered with care.
PSGL-1 recognition of P-selectin is controlled by a tyrosine sulfation consensus at the PSGL-1 amino terminus

P-selectin binding to neutrophils requires a specific protein, P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 (PSGL-1), as well as sialyl-Lewis X (sLex) glycan determinants. We have found that a short segment near the amino terminus of PSGL-1 that contains a tyrosine sulfation consensus is essential for P-selectin adhesion and that addition of the amino-terminal segment to some but not all mucin-like molecules confers on those molecules the ability to bind P-selectin. PSGL-1 synthesized in the presence of sulfation inhibitors binds P-selectin weakly, and within the amino-terminal 20 residues, mutation of the tyrosines to phenylalanine abolishes binding. Rolling of HL-60 cells on P-selectin-coated coverslips is strongly attenuated by treatment of cells with an inhibitor of sulfation.
Integrating heterogeneous ATM systems with an IP-based networking architecture

This paper presents strategies for integrating heterogeneous Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) at two merged banking systems. The IP-based networking and telecommunication technology is proposed with a special emphasis on its impact on the ATM architecture at a typical commercial bank. Problems associated with current Systems Network Architecture (SNA) networks in the bank selected as the target of this study and the proposed new networking architecture are presented. The advantages and disadvantages of IP-enabled ATMs are also discussed, along with some preventive measures.
The Human Ecology of Regrowth in the Tropics

As the losses of tropical forests have accumulated over the past three decades, largely deforested areas have increased in extent in the tropics, and observers have begun to ask questions about the circumstances under which tropical forests reemerge in deforested areas. This article addresses these questions through a meta-analysis of 63 case studies of tropical forest cover change that report net regrowth in forests. Regrowth tends to occur in largely deforested highlands. The types of regrowth (spontaneous versus planted) vary considerably from continent to continent, with spontaneous regrowth predominant in the Americas, agro-forestry prevalent in East Africa, and forest plantations common in Asia. Forest reforms that secure land tenure and allocate to locals the proceeds from the sale of forest products associate positively with the incidence of regrowth. Increases in the size of the non-farm sector and the extent of out-migration also seem to spur an expansion in tropical regrowth. Policies that buil...
Identification of the molting hormone of the sweet potato (Bemisia tabaci) and greenhouse (Trialeurodes vaporariorum) whitefly

In order to identify the whitefly molting hormone, whole body extracts of mature 4th instar and newly formed pharate adult Bemisia tabaci (Biotype B) and Trialeurodes vaporariorum were prepared and subjected to reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RPHPLC). Ecdysteroid content of fractions was determined by enzymeimmunoassay (EIA). The only detectable ecdysteroids that were present in significant amounts in whitefly extracts were ecdysone and 20-hydroxyecdysone. The concentrations of 20-hydroxyecdysone in B. tabaci and T. vaporariorum extracts, respectively, were 40 and 15 times greater than the concentrations of ecdysone. The identity of the two ecdysteroids was confirmed by normal phase high performance liquid chromatography (NPHPLC). When ecdysteroid content of RPHPLC fractions was assayed by radioimmunoassay (RIA), small amounts of polar ecdysteroids were also detected indicating that these ecdysteroids have a very low affinity for the antiserum used in the EIA. Ecdysteroid at 10.4 mM administered by feeding stimulated 2nd instar whitefly nymphs to molt. Based on our results, it appears that 20-hydroxyecdysone is the whitefly molting hormone.
Effects of protein-calorie deficiencies on the learning ability of the wistar rat

Abstract The present experiment employed the deprivation model. The treatment conditions were defined by the severity of protein-calorie deficiencies and the growth-developmental period at which such deficiencies were imposed. Prenatal and neonatal deficiencies were imposed by maintaining the mothers on the diets during pregnancy or lactation. Early deficiency was accomplished by maintaining weaned pups on their respective diets from 21–42 days of age. After realimentation on an adequate diet, the experimental animals were tested in three water mazes. Protein-calorie deficiencies did not cause permanent reduction in body weight, but neonatal deficiencies were found to impair the learning of the most difficult maze. These and other findings were discussed in the context of physiological changes which might accompany protein deficiencies, and it was concluded that the permanence of the effects on learning ability was related to the period of growth and development at which the deficiencies occur, the severity of the deficiencies, and the difficulty of the learning task.
Systematic GIS-based landslide inventory as the first step for effective landslide-hazard management

The purpose of the so-called IFFI project (Inventario dei Fenomeni Franosi in Italia—Inventory of Landslides in Italy) and of many other related activities carried out by the Centro Regionale per le Ricerche Territoriali e Geologiche of ARPA Piemonte (Agenzia Regionale per la Protezione Ambientale—Regional Agency for Environmental Protection), is to map all the existing landslides in Piemonte (including both results of monitoring data and available historical data). ARPA carried out new systematic surveys using airphoto interpretation and created a specific alphanumeric geological information systems (GIS)-based database to store and process all the collected data. In order to obtain proper landslide-hazard zoning, it is necessary to provide a landslide inventory and to define the relationship between landslides and geological setting. A landslide inventory represents a fundamental base of knowledge, is a very basic tool for land planning, and strongly helps the local authorities in their decision making.
Puerperal-nonpuerperal laparoscopic sterilization

Increasing numbers of patients request surgical sterilization as a permanent means of contraception. Laparoscopic techniques have been demonstrated as equally effective for puerperal and nonpuerperal, operations. Major advantages of laparoscopie sterilization are the shortened hospital stay and thus, lowered costs, and from the hospitals point of view, more efficient utilization of beds. The operative procedures developed at Cook County Hospital have been succesfully applied in the private practice of one of us (K.H.), the senior laparoscopists at Cook County Hospital. With continuous experience, these procedures have resulted in fewer minor complications and significant decreases in the lenght of minor complications and significant decreases in the lenght of minor complications and significant decreases in the lenght of operative time, according to comparisons with the same observations in another institution.
Inappropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator discharge associated with a new ventricular tachycardia treatment algorithm.

547-5271/$ -see front matter © 2007 Heart Rhythm Society. All rights reserved yocardial infarction and underwent coronary artery bypass rafting in 1995. In April 2006, he presented with sustained onomorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT) with a cycle ength 320 ms and right bundle branch block/superior axis, hich was externally cardioverted. A single-chamber imlantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD; Medtronic model 154VRC, with Medtronic 6944 65-cm lead, Medtronic, nc., Minneapolis, MN, USA) was placed. Testing at imlantation showed good sensing and pacing thresholds and
Stressors, coping and depression in haemodialysis patients.

Stressors, coping and depression in haemodialysis patients Background: Depression is common in persons receiving outpatient haemodialysis, but little work has been done to explore the variables associated with depression. Aims: The primary purposes of this study were to (i) examine relationships among stressors, coping and depression and (ii) test the mediating role of coping. Design/Methods: Data were collected at two points in time, three months apart in 1995/1996. The final convenience sample at Time 2 was 86 participants from two United States midwestern, inner-city dialysis units. Structured interviews were conducted using the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the haemodialysis stressor scale (HSS) and the coping strategy indicator. Results: At Time 1 more psychosocial stressors were associated with greater use of problem-solving, social-support and avoidance coping. Both avoidance coping and more psychosocial stressors at Time 1 were related to depression at Time 2. Finally, avoidance coping was found to explain much of the relationship between psychosocial stressors and depression. Conclusions: Research is now needed that explicates the causal relationships among stress, coping and depression in haemodialysis patients.
Theory of anisotropy transfer and calculations of alignment of np states populated in electron capture by highly charged ions

The excited states of highly charged ions populated by charge transfer are frequently aligned. The alignment of each nl level often reflects the initial alignment due to the collision as well as the alignment of higher levels which cascade down to this level. We adapt the theory of alignment transfer and apply it to analyze the alignment of Lyman radiations following ion-atom collisions. The theory is illustrated using computed alignments of higher levels reported earlier and the results are compared with recent measurements.
Synthesis of sex pheromones of lesser peachtree borer and peachtree borer

The sex pheromones produced by females of the lesser peachtree borer,Synanthedon pictipes (Grote and Robinson), and the peachtree borer,Synanthedon exitiosa (Say), (E,Z)- and (Z,Z)-3,13-octadecadien-1-ol acetate, respectively, were synthesized from 1,8-dichlorooctane, lithium acetylide, and ethylene oxide. In the course of the synthesis a new carbon-oxygen cleavage reaction of homopropargylic acetals was found, and the stereochemistry of the dissolving metal reductions of acetylenic alcohols was investigated.
Decision support systems for effective maintenance operations

Abstract To compete successfully in the market place, leading manufacturing companies are pursuing effective maintenance operations. Existing computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) can no longer meet the needs of dynamic maintenance operations. This paper describes newly developed decision support tools for effective maintenance operations: (1) data-driven short-term throughput bottleneck identification, (2) estimation of maintenance windows of opportunity, (3) prioritization of maintenance tasks, (4) joint production and maintenance scheduling systems, and (5) maintenance staff management. Mathematical algorithms and simulation tools are utilized to illustrate the concepts of these decision support systems. Results from real implementations in automotive manufacturing are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of these tools.
GUCY2C at the intersection of obesity and colorectal cancer

There is an emerging link between body mass and intestinal malignancies, and obese patients have ~20-60% greater risk of, and ~2-fold greater mortality from, colorectal cancer. Although this epidemiological relationship is established, mechanisms that link obesity and colorectal tumorigenesis, and their reversibility, remain incompletely defined. Here, we explore the novel hypothesis that obesity and colorectal cancer are mechanistically linked through dysregulation of paracrine and endocrine hormone axes mediated by GUCY2C. GUCY2C is the receptor for the paracrine hormones guanylin in the colorectum and uroguanylin in small intestine. These paracrine hormones are the most commonly lost gene products in sporadic colorectal cancer, and their universal loss early in neoplasia is required for tumor initiation and progression in mice and humans. In that context, GUCY2C regulates intestinal homeostasis, and its silencing by hormone loss accelerates proliferation and the cell cycle, increases DNA damage, and reprograms cellular metabolism, which increases genetic- and carcinogen-induced colorectal cancer in mice. Beyond its role in colorectal tumor suppression, GUCY2C and uroguanylin comprise a novel gut-brain endocrine axis, evolutionarily conserved from invertebrates to humans, that regulates appetite, body mass and metabolism. Elimination of this endocrine axis in mice results in hyperphagia, obesity, diabetes and the metabolic syndrome. Unexpectedly, recent studies revealed that GUCY2C paracrine hormone expression in colon is eliminated by diet-induced obesity in mice and humans. Indeed, hormone expression appears to be reversibly modulated by ingested calories, rather than by the endocrine, adipokine or inflammatory milieu associated with obesity. Moreover, enforced expression of GUCY2C paracrine hormone by intestinal epithelial cells eliminates tumorigenesis induced by obesity. These observations suggest a model of cancer risk in which ingested calories contributing to obesity recapitulate mechanisms underlying sporadic colorectal cancer by suppressing paracrine hormone expression, silencing the GUCY2C tumor suppressor and disrupting epithelial homeostasis. They define a previously unrecognized mechanism linking diet and obesity to colorectal cancer and identify silencing of the GUCY2C tumor suppressor as a link between reversible risk factors like ingested calories and molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development. Moreover, they offer strategies for countering these risks, including calorie restriction and oral hormone therapy.
Staphylococcus aureus - induced tumor necrosis factor - related apoptosis - inducing ligand expression mediates apoptosis and caspase-8 activation in infected osteoblasts

Background Staphylococcus aureus infection of normal osteoblasts induces expression of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL).
Effects of a Conservative Rock Bass Length Limit on Angler Participation, Sport Fish Populations, and Crayfish Prey in a Missouri Ozark Stream

Abstract Rock bass Ambloplites rupestris are popular with anglers in Missouri Ozark streams, second only to smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu. Historically, fishery biologists emphasized the management of smallmouth bass, but in the late 1980s they sought higher-quality rock bass fisheries and thus the information needed to recommend harvest regulations. Using a conservative minimum length limit of 230 mm (9 in) total length (TL) in a heavily exploited rock bass fishery in the Big Piney River, Missouri, we assessed the direct and indirect effects on angler participation and attitudes (by means of an angler survey), the abundance (mark–recapture analysis) and growth rates (scale analysis) of rock bass and smallmouth bass, sport fish predation on crayfishes (order Decapoda; diet analysis), and crayfish densities (stratified quadrat sampling). These measures were evaluated for 3 years (1992–1994) before the length limit was imposed and for 6 years afterward (1995–2000) on a 17.1-km-long regulation section...
Do lichens show latitudinal patterns of diversity

No previous study has directly investigated whether lichens show latitudinal patterns of diversity. We used vouchered data and MaxEnt models to compile richness estimates (species, genera, and families) across the western coastal region of the US. Nonparametric multiplicative regression then sought the geographic factors or interactions of factors that explained the most variability in lichen richness. Collection density was the strongest predictor of raw estimates of richness at all taxonomic ranks. Latitude was the overall single-best predictor of MaxEnt modeled species, generic, and familial richness in all models. MaxEnt modeling was necessary to minimize collection bias, which otherwise obscured any other patterns of diversity. While geography explained a sizable portion of variance in lichen richness, it does not trend linearly with latitude. Instead, lichen diversity may be influenced by a compilation of regional and local factors including climate, disturbance, and competition.
Analyzing the Effect of Channel Estimation Errors on the Average Block Error Probability of a MISO Transmit Beamforming System

We address the problem of analyzing the effect of channel estimation errors on the average block error probability (BLEP) of transmit beamforming multiple input single output (MISO) system in a slowly varying Rayleigh fading wireless channel. For this purpose, we develop an accurate model of estimation errors in a block fading context and derive an analytical expression quantifying the impact of channel estimation errors on feedback MISO systems. In particular, the block fading model implies that the channel estimate and its error component are fixed for the entire block and an appropriate performance criteria is the average BLEP, a more complex metric to analyze. The derived closed form analytical expression for the average BLEP is validated by simulations.
Jumping performance of hylid frogs measured with high-speed cine film

Jumping performance at 20 degrees C was assessed in five species of hylid frogs using high-speed cine film. Mean takeoff velocities (Vt) varied from 1.5 to 2.4 ms-1 among the species. Peak Vt varied from 1.9 to 2.9 ms-1. Body-mass-specific power output averaged over the entire takeoff period varied from 29 to 91 W kg-1 during the jumps with the highest takeoff velocities. These values are similar to those predicted from jumping distance. As the mass of muscles available to power the jump probably amounts to no more than 17% of the body mass, average muscle-mass-specific power can be over 500 W kg-1. The performance during jumping is even more impressive in view of the fact that the peak power during takeoff is about twice the average power. These frogs must use elastic storage to redistribute power during takeoff to produce the peak power required and may use pre-storage of elastic energy to boost the average power available.
Gender-of-author differences in study design of older adult friendship surveys

This research extends literature documenting gender differences in choice of quantitative or qualitative methods by examining whether men and women make different decisions regarding study design within one type of quantitative method—survey research. The population consists of 117 surveys (1960–1999) of older adults about friendship. We find that the use of communal methods, especially by women scholars, increased over time, and researchers who are women are more likely to use “communal” survey methods than researchers who are men. The gender difference in use of communal methods is not necessarily explained by essential differences between men and women or even by gender differences in commitment to feminist research as previous scholars have argued; rather, it is possibly explained by structured differences in access to resources to do agentic research.
The Evolution of Corporate Governance and Firm Performance in Emerging Markets: The Case of Sellier and Bellot

This paper investigates the evolution of corporate governance and firm performance in emerging markets. It focuses on Czech ammunition manufacturer Sellier and Bellot (S&B) following voucher privatization in 1993. Exogenously imposed diffuse ownership, combined with legal, capital market, and accounting deﬁ ciencies, contributed to poor corporate governance and weak ﬁ rm performance. It also impeded corporate governance change toward optimal concentrated ownership structure. Five years of dismal accounting and stock return performance, default, and a failed attempt to sell the company passed before a single blockholder acquired control, installed new management, and dramatically improved proﬁ tability. This study is one of the ﬁ rst todescribe the path of evolution from a suboptimal to an optimal governance structure. Turnaround was accomplished through the adoption of monitoring and incentive mechanisms known to mitigate owner-manager agency conﬂ icts in developed countries. The S&B experience has policy implications for emerging countries undergoing mass privatization.
Maternal Dietary Magnesium Effects on Lactation Success and on Milk Yield and Composition in the Rat

Maternal dietary magnesium (Mg) intake during lactation is known to affect the growth and development of the newborn. We fed three groups of lac- tating rats diets containing 125, 500 and 900 mg Mg/kg, and observed pup growth, milk yield, and milk Mg, calcium, protein, fat, lactose and energy concentrations on maternal dietary Mg; milk calcium decreased. Other milk constituents and yield did not appear to be directly affected, although deficient dams ate less food which did depress milk yield. Deficient dams also developed swollen and distended teats when milked. We conclude that less than a normally recommended amount of Mg in the maternal diet depresses pup growth, while more than a normal amount accelerates it. No clear connection was identified between the growth response and any milk constituent. J. Nutr. 113: 2421-2431, 1983.
A clinical observation of a program to accomplish pelvic exams in difficult-to-manage patients with mental retardation*.

Abstract Providing routine gynecologic care to patients with mental retardation can be a very difficult task. A program was developed at the University of Michigan to facilitate routine gynecologic examinations of patients with mental retardation so that evaluations could be made without excess physical force or unnecessary inducement of fear. Special techniques allowing for gynecologic examination of mentally retarded women are described. Early experience using intravenous or intramuscular Valium and chloral hydrate was unsuccessful for completion of gynecologic exams without force. As a result, it was necessary to perform eight pelvic examinations under general anesthesia. After instituting a protocol using oral ketamine and midazolam, excellent outpatient sedation was achieved and only 4 of 25 patients subsequently referred for an examination required general anesthesia. The medications were well tolerated and without significant side effects, allowing for discharge home within 60 minutes of achieving effective sedation. A satisfactory gynecologic exam can be accomplished in the vast majority of mentally retarded women while avoiding unnecessary physical and emotional trauma and the need for general anesthesia.
Crazing of fibrous polymers

Highly oriented filaments of nylon 6 and polypropylene (PP) are shown to craze when deformed slowly at room temperature. A marked yield point occurs at 20-40 percent elongation. After this point extensive voiding occurs until at fracture the overall density is reduced by ∽25 percent for PP and ∽15 percent for nylon 6. SAXS analysis indicates that for PP the voids are elongated in the fiber axis while for nylon 6 voiding occurs both parallel and perpendicular to the fiber axis. Optical and electron microscopy show typical craze structures. The use of etching demonstrates that crazing occurs across the whole filament cross section. This yielding behavior is shown to be associated with the use of a low temperature of drawing during fiber production and becomes less important when a higher temperature of drawing or a separate annealing step are used. The crazing mechanism is thought to involve progressive separation of interfibril boundaries with the production of elongated voids.
Service Use and Self-Reported Symptoms Among Persons With Positive PTSD Screens and Serious Mental Illness

Objective:Although many studies have reported higher rates of trauma exposure and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among persons with severe mental illness, the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of PTSD in public mental health centers remain at a suboptimal level and PTSD is often overlooked and untreated. This study used routine PTSD screening and service use data in electronic medical records to determine the association of PTSD, psychiatric symptoms, and service use in a sample of individuals with serious mental illness in a community-based treatment setting.Methods:The sample included 1,834 active clients between January 2007 and November 2010 who were screened for PTSD and who completed the 24-item Behavior and Symptom Identification Scale (BASIS-24). Service data included services provided a year before and a year after the screening date.Results:PTSD was associated with more severe psychiatric symptoms and increased no-show rates but not with increased service use or use of high-intensity ser...
Chronic Posttraumatic Pseudoaneurysm of the Thoracic Aorta

A previously healthy 75-year-old male pedestrian was hit by a car. An initial chest radiograph demonstrated a round “mass” with peripheral calcifications in the aortopulmonary window suggestive of a saccular aneurysm (Fig 1). Computed tomographic (CT) angiography of the chest performed to evaluate the mediastinum (Fig 2) revealed a sharply marginated and smooth-walled, peripherally calcified 3-cm saccular aneurysm along the anteromedial wall of an otherwise normal-appearing, postisthmic descending thoracic aorta. Blood pressure, temperature, serum glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol were normal. Syphilis serology was nonreactive. Upon further inquiry, the patient revealed that 50 years previously, he sustained multiple chest and head injuries as an unrestrained driver in a high-speed motor-vehicle crash. High-energy deceleration injuries of the thoracic aorta are associated with high mortality. Among longterm survivors, only 2%-5% of traumatic aortic injuries fail initial detection and are discovered later as chronic pseudoaneurysms. 1 Typically, chronic posttraumatic aneurysms progressively enlarge and rupture. 2 Serendipitous diagnosis is common with a pseudoaneurysm discovered years later on imaging usually performed for unrelated reasons. Potential symptoms associated with chronic pseudoaneurysm are those of any anteroposterior window mass, including chest pain, dysphagia, hoarseness (recurrent laryngeal nerve irritation), and dyspnea or cough due to bronchial or
Peer Influences on Academic Motivation: Exploring Multiple Methods of Assessing Youths’ Most “Influential” Peer Relationships:

The present study examines the relative role of three distinct types of peer relationships (reciprocated friendships, frequent interactions, and shared group membership) in within-year changes in academic self-concept and engagement before and after the transition to middle school (fifth and seventh grade). In a series of linear regression analyses, main effects of each peer type’s academic self-concept and engagement on changes in youths’ academic characteristics were used to test socialization processes. Interactions of youths’ academic skills with those of each peer type were used to test social comparison processes influencing changes in academic self-concept. Results suggest unique roles of each peer relationship differentially influencing changes in youths’ academic adjustment as well as stronger influence effects during seventh than fifth grade. Implications are discussed in terms of distinct influence processes associated with each peer relationship type as well as potential developmental differences in the role that certain peer relationships play.