cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Racial discrimination and cortisol output: A meta-analysis.

Abstract Rationale Although the relation between stress and physiology is well documented, attempts at understanding the link between racial discrimination and cortisol output, specifically, have produced mixed results, likely due to study characteristics such as racial/ethnic composition of the samples (e.g., African American, Latino), measures of discrimination, and research design (e.g., cross-sectional, experimental). Objectives To estimate the overall association between racial discrimination and cortisol output among racial/ethnic minority individuals and to determine if the association between racial discrimination and cortisol output is moderated by age, race/ethnicity, type of discrimination measure, sex, and research design. Results Using a random effects model, the overall effect size based on k = 16 studies (19% unpublished) and N = 1506 participants was r ¯ = 0.040, 95% CI = −0.038 to 0.117. Studies were conducted predominantly in the U.S. (81%). Notably, experimental studies ( r ¯ = 0.267) exhibited larger effect sizes compared to non-experimental studies ( r ¯ = −0.007). Age, race/ethnicity, type of discrimination measure, and sex did not moderate the effect sizes. Conclusion This meta-analysis provides evidence that the measurement of the association between racial discrimination and cortisol is complex, and it offers valuable insight regarding methods and designs that can inform future research on this topic. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
Shouldering a patient's pain.

I GREW UP AS the youngest of three brothers. Neither of my brothers is married or has children. Before my labor and delivery (L&D) clinical experience, I'd never held a newborn, and I had no personal knowledge of either the clinical or emotional aspects of pregnancy and childbirth. L&D w
The hidden organ in your eyes.

The article discusses specialized neurons in the eyes that help the body adjust to the sleep-wake cycle. According to the author, some animals sense light with organs outside of their eyes, but humans do not. He notes that despite this fact, some blind people can adjust their body to the sleep-wake cycle. An overview of research involving genetically-engineered mice who lacked rods and cones, but reacted to changes in light by adjusting their circadian clock is presented. Topics include the discovery of a link between non-visual responses to light and specialized neurons in the retina and how the discovery may lead to treatments for seasonal affective disorders, sleep disorders, and other debilitating conditions. INSETS: How the Body Knows Day from Night;Uncovering the Eyes' Double Life;Feeling Light, Not Seeing.
THE PERSISTENCE OF IN VIVO AND IN VITRO IMMUNE RESPONSES IN THYMECTOMIZED RABBITS

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the persistence of in vivo and in vitro immune responses in thymectomized rabbits. In a study described in the chapter, thymectomy (Tx) or administration of anti-thymocyte serum to rabbits before immunization with dinitrophenylated protein antigens caused elevated in vivo antibody responses. A few days after priming, Tx had much less effect on the antibody response even though both procedures caused similar reductions in the total mitogen responses to the T-cell stimulants concanavalin A (ConA) and phytohemagglutinin (PHA-P). Seventeen 6–7-week old outbred female New Zealand White rabbits were divided into three groups. The T-mitogens ConA and PHA-P stimulate suppressor cell activation in the rabbit, so the PBL from all 12 surviving rabbits were tested before the 21-month immunization. The regulatory activity is apparently retained in the absence of thymic influence if immunization has preceded Tx.
Race-Ethnicity and Gender in Older Adults

As the number of people over the age of 65 rises, the median age of the nation’s, as well as the world’s population increases. Current projections estimate that one in five people in the USA will be aged 65 or older in the year 2030 (Administration on Aging, Profile of older Americans, 2000. National Institute of Mental Health, 2000), and, the number of adults over age 60 worldwide is projected to exceed two billion (United Nations, World population prospects: The 2006 revision. Population Division, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, 2007). This rise in numbers is most likely due to increased life expectancy, as a result of improved healthcare services, sanitation, housing, and economic conditions. At the same time, birth rates worldwide are decreasing, resulting in a larger proportion of older adults in both developed and developing countries (World Health Organization, Ageing: Exploding the myths. World Health Organization, 1999).
Driving Pulseless: A Driving Survey of LVAD Patients and Their Providers

Background With the introduction of the Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD), a new population of advanced heart failure patients are now raising unique questions for the medical community. In particular, the limitations and safety of driving with an LVAD. There is limited data on the driving patterns or safety of driving in these patients, as well as a lack of expert consensus recommendations on the topic. Objectives The purpose of this study was to further understand the driving practices of our center's LVAD population, as well as our expert providers’ awareness of state and institutional recommendations on the subject. Methods This study was a cross sectional, paper based survey of our ambulatory LVAD population. It was conducted at the University of Rochester Medical Center during a 6 month period from February 2017 to August 2017. A total of 124 participants, who were at least 3 months post HeartMate II LVAD implantation and presented to their outpatient clinic appointment, were surveyed. Demographics, driving practices before and after implant, and frequency of alarms while driving were collected. A total of 15 advanced Heart Failure providers were also surveyed regarding their knowledge of New York State laws regarding driving with a LVAD, knowledge of their institutional policy, and their personal opinions about LVAD patients and driving. Results A total of 86 surveys (69%) were returned. Before LVAD implantation 90% were driving, and 61% reported they were the primary driver for their household. After LVAD implant 77% reported they resumed driving, 35% less than 3 months after implant. Of the drivers, most reported driving 7 days a week, with an average of 112 miles/week. The most common reasons cited for driving were medical necessity and work. Eight patients reported experiencing LVAD alarms while driving which were related to low battery alerts. All were able to be safely addressed by pulling over, and none resulted in an accident. Of the 15 LVAD providers, thirteen (87%) completed the survey. The results showed that all correctly knew that there were no specific New York State laws regarding driving, but significant variability existed about the intuitional policy and personal provider recommendations. Only 62% reported they specifically address the issue of driving with their LVAD patients, but 100% of the respondents believed that LVAD patients should be allowed to drive. Conclusions The ability to drive can have a significant impact on a patient's independence and perceived quality of life. Our survey found that driving with an LVAD is fairly common and reasonably safe in the stable patient, but there continues to be a lack of expert consensus on the matter. Therefore, LVAD implant centers should be encouraged to establish clear policies for their expert providers. As medical providers, it is also critical that the subject of driving be addressed with all our LVAD patients.
Strain-Level Differentiation of Bacteria by Paper Spray Ionization Mass Spectrometry.

Paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PSI-MS) is a relatively new analytical technique allowing for rapid mass spectrometric analysis of biological samples with little or no sample preparation....
Examining the role of friendship for employee well-being

Abstract Sustaining high-quality experiences across multiple life roles is essential for well-being. While this has long been acknowledged in the work-nonwork literature, research to date has focused primarily on experiences in work and family roles. Responding to calls to better understand how roles beyond work and family impact employee well-being, we seek to highlight the role of supportive friendships. Drawing on Social Support Resources Theory, we suggest that supportive friendships influence general well-being via self-esteem, a key personal resource. We argue that supportive friendships should enhance self-esteem and subsequently well-being because of the voluntary nature of friendship and the unique support that friends provide. In Study 1, we examine the extent to which supportive friendships contribute to employees' general well-being via self-esteem, controlling for the effects of supportive marital and family relationships, finding that supportive friendships have unique effects. In Study 2, building on these findings, we propose and test an expanded model in which we: (1) differentiate between support from work-based and nonwork friends, (2) examine organization-based self-esteem in addition to general self-esteem as mediating variables, and (3) consider the role of supportive friendships for both general and work-related well-being. We find that supportive nonwork friends influence both general and work-related well-being, while supportive work friends are primarily important for well-being at work. The present studies are the first to consider the effects of both work and nonwork friends on well-being and to test a mechanism for such effects.
Common Vascular Toxicities of Cancer Therapies

The introduction of targeted agents into modern cancer therapy pursued the goal of molecularly more specific, and thereby more effective and safer, therapies. Paradoxically, however, several toxicities were brought to greater attention, among these not only cardiac but also vascular toxicities. The latter reach far beyond venous thromboembolism and include a broad spectrum of presentations based on the vascular territories and pathomechanisms involved, including abnormal vascular reactivity, acute thrombosis, or accelerated atherosclerosis. This article provides an overview of the most common presentations and their management strategies.
The Practice of the Microbe Hunter

In this chapter, the basic methodological tenets of the study of pathogenic bacteria are discussed. This includes the analysis of the growth, properties, and behavior of bacteria, as well as the tools and methods used to assess pathogenesis in vitro (host cells) and in vivo (animal models). The basic definition of virulence is introduced, and model systems that faithfully recapitulate infection, both present and those likely to be a part of the future, are highlighted. The reader will be armed with the tools of microbiology so as to frame the origins of the knowledge presented in forthcoming chapters.
In‑Situ Nanostructuring and Stabilization of Polycrystalline Copper by an Organic Salt Additive Promotes Electrocatalytic CO 2 Reduction to Ethylene

Bridging homogeneous molecular systems with heterogeneous catalysts is a promising approach for the development of new electrodes, combining the advantages of both approaches. In the context of CO2 electroreduction, molecular enhancement of planar copper electrodes has enabled promising advancement towards high Faradaic efficiencies for multicarbon products. Besides, nanostructured copper electrodes have also demonstrated enhanced performance at comparatively low overpotentials. Herein, we report a novel and convenient method for nanostructuring copper electrodes using N,N'-ethylene-phenanthrolinium dibromide as molecular additive. Selectivities up to 70 % for C≥2 products are observed for more than 40 h without significant change in the surface morphology. Mechanistic studies reveal several roles for the organic additive, including: the formation of cube-like nanostructures by corrosion of the copper surface, the stabilization of these nanostructures during electrocatalysis by formation of a protective organic layer, and the promotion of C≥2 products.
Complicity in Vienna: Science and systemic denial after 1938

Summary Despite over seventy years of independent inquiries, institutional investigations, and ongoing scholarship in contemporary history, Austria continues to uncover tangible evidence that members of their medical and scientific communities shielded their own genocidal activities from the Nazi era until the end of the 20th century. To what extent does this point toward a cultural complicity, conscious or not, with compromised figures like Eduard Pernkopf or Heinrich Gross? A whole new generation of mostly Austrian researchers have challenged the “avoidance imperative” with increasing determination though often under international pressure. Yet the intransigence with which the Viennese academy safeguarded Nazi murderers in their midst after 1945 and arguably until today, compels us to re-examine what is known – and what is not. The tacit amnesty of Austrian Nazi scientists, whose story is less well-known than their German counterparts, may speak to a deeper malaise in the construction of Austrian national identity.
HIV-Associated Aortitis Causing Rapid Development of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm.

Vasculitides are rare manifestations of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. They encompass a wide range of different pathologies, both infectious and noninfectious. We present the case of a 68-year-old female with HIV, being treated with antiretrovirals, who presented with a symptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysm. The aneurysm developed within one week. The patient underwent endovascular aneurysm repair, and her aneurysm completely resolved on follow-up computed tomography imaging 16 months later. We also present a review of HIV-associated vascular pathologies.
What college students say, and what they do: aligning self-regulated learning theory with behavioral logs

A central concern in learning analytics specifically and educational research more generally is the alignment of robust, coherent measures to well-developed conceptual and theoretical frameworks. Capturing and representing processes of learning remains an ongoing challenge in all areas of educational inquiry and presents substantive considerations on the nature of learning, knowledge, and assessment & measurement that have been continuously refined in various areas of education and pedagogical practice. Learning analytics as a still developing method of inquiry has yet to substantively navigate the alignment of measurement, capture, and representation of learning to theoretical frameworks despite being used to identify various practical concerns such as at risk students. This study seeks to address these concerns by comparing behavioral measurements from learning management systems to established measurements of components of learning as understood through self-regulated learning frameworks. Using several prominent and robustly supported self-reported survey measures designed to identify dimensions of self-regulated learning, as well as typical behavioral features extracted from a learning management system, we conducted descriptive and exploratory analyses on the relational structures of these data. With the exception of learners' self-reported time management strategies and level of motivation, the current results indicate that behavioral measures were not well correlated with survey measurements. Possibilities and recommendations for learning analytics as measurements for self-regulated learning are discussed.
Control of waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus) regrowth after failed applications of glufosinate or fomesafen

Foliar herbicide applications to waterhemp can result in inadequate control, leading to subsequent regrowth that often necessitates a second herbicide application to prevent crop interference and seed production. The most effective herbicides and application timings are unknown in situations where waterhemp has regrown from previous injury, such as failed applications of glufosinate or fomesafen. The objective of this research was to determine the optimum combination of herbicide and time from the first failed herbicide application to a sequential herbicide application for control of waterhemp regrowth. Reduced rates of either glufosinate or fomesafen were applied to 30-cm waterhemp plants to mimic failure of the initial herbicide application in separate bare-ground experiments. Respray treatments of glufosinate, fomesafen, lactofen, 2,4-D, or dicamba were applied 3, 7, or 11 d after the initial application. Glufosinate and fomesafen as respray treatments resulted in 90% to 100% control of waterhemp regardless of application timing following a failed glufosinate application. After a failed application of fomesafen, applying glufosinate or 2,4-D resulted in 87% to 99% control of waterhemp. Waterhemp control with fomesafen and lactofen was 13% to 21% greater, respectively, when those treatments followed glufosinate compared with fomesafen as the initial herbicides. On the basis of these results, glufosinate and fomesafen should be used for respray situations after inadequate control from glufosinate; and 2,4-D or glufosinate should be used for respray situations following inadequate control from fomesafen where crop tolerance and herbicide product labels allow. Although glufosinate followed by glufosinate was very effective for controlling waterhemp regrowth, caution should be exercised to avoid sequential application of herbicide with the same site of action.Nomenclature: Fomesafen; glufosinate; lactofen; 2,4-D; dicamba; waterhemp, Amaranthus tuberculatus (Moq) J.D. Sauer
Suggestions for Combatting COVID-19 by Natural Means in the Absence of Standard Medical Regimens.

At this point in time, the COVID-19 pandemic appears relentless with no end in sight. Dire predictions of a continuance for as long as an additional two years or more have been voiced. A beneficial...
Performance and Everyday Life, or a Latina/o/x in Intercultural Communication

Utilizing “theories in the flesh” as a theoretical framework, the author challenges the reader to embrace the disorienting, fragmenting, and confusing space in/between performance and intercultural...
Numerical Approximations Using Chebyshev Polynomial Expansions

The aim of this work is to nd numerical solutions for dierential equations by expanding the unknown function in terms of Chebyshev polynomials and solving a system of linear equations directly for the values of the function at the extrema (or zeros) of the Chebyshev polynomial of order N. The solutions are exact at these points, apart from round-o com- puter errors and the convergence of other numerical methods used in connection to solving the linear system of equations. Applications to initial-value problems in time-dependent quantum eld theory, and second order boundary-value problems in fluid dynamics are pre- sented. of the functions rather than the Chebyshev coecients. The two approaches are formally equivalent in the sense that if we have the values of the function, the Chebyshev coecients can be calculated. In this paper we use the discrete orthogonality relation- ships of the Chebyshev polynomials to exactly discretize various continuous equations by reducing the study of the solutions to the Hilbert space of functions dened on the set of (N+1) extrema of TN(x), spanned by a dis- crete (N+1) term Chebyshev polynomial basis. In our approach we follow closely the procedures outlined by El-gendy (6) for the calculation of integrals, but extend his work to the calculation of derivatives. We also show that similar procedures can be applied for a second grid given by the zeros of TN(x). The paper is organized as follows: In Section II we re- view the basic properties of the Chebyshev polynomial and derive the general theoretical ingredients that allow us to discretize the various equations. The key element is the calculation of derivatives and integrals without ex- plicitly calculating the Chebyshev expansion coecients. In Sections III and IV we apply the formalism to obtain numerical solutions of initial-value and boundary-value problems, respectively. We accompany the general pre- sentation with examples, and compare the solution ob- tained using the proposed Chebyshev method with the numerical solution obtained using the nite-dierences method. Our conclusions are presented in Section V.
Complete Dynamical Evaluation of the Characteristic Polynomial of Binary Quantum Graphs

We evaluate the variance of coefficients of the characteristic polynomial for binary quantum graphs using a dynamical approach. This is the first example of a chaotic quantum system where a spectral statistic can be evaluated in terms of periodic orbits without taking the semiclassical limit, which is the limit of large graphs. The variance depends on the size of two classes of primitive pseudo orbits (sets of periodic orbits); pseudo orbits without self-intersections and those where all the self-intersections are 2-encounters at a single vertex. To show other pseudo orbits do not contribute we employ a parity argument for Lyndon word decompositions. For families of binary graphs with an increasing number of bonds, we show the periodic orbit formula approaches a universal constant independent of the coefficient of the polynomial. This constant is obtained by counting the total number of primitive pseudo orbits of a given length. To count periodic orbits and pseudo orbits we exploit further connections between orbits on binary graphs and Lyndon words.
Modeling the Spectral Energy Distribution and Variability of 3C 66A during the WEBT Campaign of 2003-2004

The BL Lac object 3C 66A was observed in an extensive multiwavelength monitoring campaign (the Whole Earth Blazar Telescope [WEBT] campaign) from 2003 July until 2004 April. The spectral energy distribution (SED) was measured over the entire electromagnetic spectrum, with flux measurements from radio to X-ray frequencies and upper limits in the very high energy (VHE) γ-ray regime. Here we use a time-dependent leptonic jet model to reproduce the SED and optical spectral variability observed during our multiwavelength campaign. Our model simulations could successfully reproduce the observed SED and optical light curves and predict an intrinsic cutoff value for the VHE γ-ray emission at ~4 GeV. The effect of the optical depth due to the intergalactic infrared background radiation (IIBR) on the peak of the high-energy component of 3C 66A was found to be negligible. Also, the presence of a broad-line region (BLR) in the case of 3C 66A may play an important role in the emission of γ-ray photons when the emission region is very close to the central engine, but farther out, the production mechanism of hard X-ray and γ-ray photons becomes rapidly dominated by synchrotron self-Compton emission. We further discuss the possibility of an observable X-ray spectral variability pattern. The simulated results do not predict observable hysteresis patterns in the optical or soft X-ray regimes for major flares on multiday timescales.
School Cultural Socialization and Academic Performance: Examining Ethnic-Racial Identity Development as a Mediator Among African American Adolescents

Historic racial disparities in the United States have created an urgent need for evidence-based strategies promoting African American students' academic performance via school-based ethnic-racial socialization and identity development. However, the temporal order among socialization, identity, and academic performance remains unclear in extant literature. This longitudinal study examined whether school cultural socialization predicted 961 African American adolescents' grade point averages through their ethnic-racial identities (49.6% males; Mage = 13.60; 91.9% qualified for free lunch). Results revealed that youth who perceived more school cultural socialization had better grades 1 and 2 years later. In addition, identity commitment (but not exploration) fully mediated these relations. Implications for how educators can help adolescents of color succeed in schools are discussed.
Abuse and suicide risk among college students in the United States: Findings from the 2019 Healthy Minds Study.

Abstract Background Suicide has increased among American youth, and remains a concern on college campuses where students have reported increasing levels of psychological distress, alcohol use, social isolation, and loneliness. Abuse is known to be a risk factor for suicide, but more research is needed to understand whether current specific types of abuse and their co-occurrence are related to current suicidal thoughts and behaviors among young adults in college. Methods We analyzed data from the 2019 wave of the Healthy Minds Study, a cross-sectional, web-based survey administered to undergraduate and graduate students. Using multivariable logistic regression, we examined the associations between abuse and suicidal thoughts and behaviors, adjusting for sociodemographic and mental health covariates. Results In the past 12 months, 12.56% of the sample reported suicidal ideation, 5.70% reported making a suicide plan, and 1.28% reported making a suicide attempt. Over a third of the sample reported at least one type of abuse over the past 12 months. Emotional, physical, and sexual abuse were all associated with greater odds of all suicide outcomes, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and mental health. Endorsing multiple types of abuses was associated with greater odds of suicide outcomes in a dose-response fashion. Limitations Data were cross-sectional and the response rate for this survey was 16%. Conclusions Universities can implement a multi-pronged approach that covers screening for types of abuse, initiating awareness campaigns around abuse and suicide, and training faculty and staff to make appropriate referrals. Student services must also be equipped to address students who perpetrate abuse.
Inter-pathologist Agreement on Structured Histopathology Reporting in Chronic Rhinosinusitis.

Background:Structured histopathology reporting is increasingly being utilized in rhinology to characterize endotypes in chronic rhinosinusitis and guide management decisions after sinus surgery.Obj...
Dynamic algorithm selection for SMT

We describe an online approach to SMT solver selection using nearest neighbor classification and runtime estimation. We implement and evaluate our approach with MedleySolver, finding that it makes nearly optimal selections and evaluates a dataset of queries three times faster than any indivdual solver.
Engineered cell-laden alginate microparticles for 3D culture

Advanced microfabrication technologies and biocompatible hydrogel materials facilitate the modeling of 3D tissue microenvironment. Encapsulation of cells in hydrogel microparticles offers an excellent high-throughput platform for investigating multicellular interaction with their surrounding microenvironment. Compartmentalized microparticles support formation of various unique cellular structures. Alginate has emerged as one of the most dominant hydrogel materials for cell encapsulation owing to its cytocompatibility, ease of gelation, and biocompatibility. Alginate hydrogel provides a permeable physical boundary to the encapsulated cells and develops an easily manageable 3D cellular structure. The interior structure of alginate hydrogel can further regulate the spatiotemporal distribution of the embedded cells. This review provides a specific overview of the representative engineering approaches to generate various structures of cell-laden alginate microparticles in a uniform and reproducible manner. Capillary nozzle systems, microfluidic droplet systems, and non-chip based high-throughput microfluidic systems are highlighted for developing well-regulated cellular structure in alginate microparticles to realize potential drug screening platform and cell-based therapy. We conclude with the discussion of current limitations and future directions for realizing the translation of this technology to the clinic.
Responses of Vertebrate Wildlife to Oil and Natural Gas Development: Patterns and Frontiers

Anthropogenic activities can lead to the loss, fragmentation, and alteration of wildlife habitats. I reviewed the recent literature (2014–2019) focused on the responses of avian, mammalian, and herpetofaunal species to oil and natural gas development, a widespread and still-expanding land use worldwide. My primary goals were to identify any generalities in species’ responses to development and summarize remaining gaps in knowledge. To do so, I evaluated the directionality of a wide variety of responses in relation to taxon, location, development type, development metric, habitat type, and spatiotemporal aspects. Studies (n = 70) were restricted to the USA and Canada, and taxonomically biased towards birds and mammals. Longer studies, but not those incorporating multiple spatial scales, were more likely to detect significant responses. Negative responses of all types were present in relatively low frequencies across all taxa, locations, development types, and development metrics but were context-dependent. The directionality of responses by the same species often varied across studies or development metrics. The state of knowledge about wildlife responses to oil and natural gas development has developed considerably, though many biases and gaps remain. Studies outside of North America and that focus on herpetofauna are lacking. Tests of mechanistic hypotheses for effects, long-term studies, assessment of response thresholds, and experimental designs that isolate the effects of different stimuli associated with development, remain critical. Moreover, tests of the efficacy of habitat mitigation efforts have been rare. Finally, investigations of the demographic effects of development across the full annual cycle were absent for non-game species and are critical for the estimation of population-level effects.
Hepatic Glycogen In Obstructive Jaundice

1. Under the experimental conditions described, dextrose was slightly more efficacious by vein than by mouth in raising the glycogen content of the liver in dogs with obstructive jaundice. 2. The intravenous route offers the possibility of introducing in a given period of time larger amounts of sugar and water into the organism than is usually possible with oral administration. 3. A caloric intake consisting entirely of dextrose and adequate to meet the daily energy requirement of the dog was less productive of hepatic glycogen than a general diet with supplementary dextrose therapy. 4. In severe liver disease, intravenous injection of dextrose is especially advantageous for replenishing the wants of the heart and skeletal muscles, in addition to its effect on hepatic glycogen. 5. Both oral and intravenous dextrose therapy are indicated in the pre-operative preparation of jaundiced patients. 6. In jaundiced patients requiring surgery, intravenous injection of 1000 cc. of 10% glucose approximately three hours before operation is advisable.
Measurements of total and speciated hydrocarbon removal from engine exhaust using activated carbon

A hydrocarbon trapping system for cold start emissions was constructed and tested using two types of carbonaceous absorbants provided by Corning, Inc. One was made by combining activated carbon with an organic binder and extruding it into a honeycomb, and the other by depositing a carbon coating on a ceramic monolith. The tests were carried out on an engine in a dynamometer laboratory to characterize the performance of the carbon elements under transient cold start conditions. Performance was evaluated by continuously measuring exhaust gas hydrocarbon concentrations upstream and downstream of the trap, using conventional emission consoles. Speciation of samples collected before and after the traps revealed that high molecular weight hydrocarbons were trapped very efficiently, while low molecular weight species were not. The results obtained illustrate the effect that fuel selection has when determining the mass- and reactivity-based trapping efficiency of cold trap absorbants. 20 refs., 10 figs., 2 tabs.
Modelling the rainfall–runoff process of the Mara River basin using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool

The delicate balance between human utilization and sustaining its pristine biodiversity in the Mara River basin (MRB) is being threatened because of the expansion of agriculture, deforestation, human settlement, erosion and sedimentation and extreme flow events. This study assessed the applicability of the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model for long-term rainfall–runoff simulation in MRB. The possibilities of combining/extending gage rainfall data with satellite rainfall estimates were investigated. Monthly satellite rainfall estimates not only overestimated but also lacked the variability of observed rainfall to substitute gage rainfall in model simulation. Uncertainties related to the quality and availability of input data were addressed. Sensitivity and uncertainty analysis was reported for alternative model components and hydrologic parameters used in SWAT. Mean sensitivity indices of SWAT parameters in MRB varied with and without observed discharge data. The manual assessment of individual parameters indicated heterogeneous response among sub-basins of MRB. SWAT was calibrated and validated with 10 years of discharge data at Bomet (Nyangores River), Mulot (Amala River) and Mara Mines (Mara River) stations. Model performance varied from satisfactory at Mara Mines to fair at Bomet and weak at Mulot. The (Nash–Sutcliff efficiency, coefficient of determination) results of calibration and validation at Mara Mines were (0.68, 0.69) and (0.43, 0.44), respectively. Two years of moving time window and flow frequency analysis showed that SWAT performance in MRB heavily relied on quality and abundance of discharge data. Given the 5.5% area contribution of Amala sub-basin as well as uncertainty and scarcity of input data, SWAT has the potential to simulate the rainfall runoff process in the MRB. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toward a reconcilement of endogenous money and liquidity preference

A theoretical synthesis of endogenous money and liquidity preference is not possible so long as the latter is recognized as a theory of the demand and supply of money. A key step toward the reconcilement of the two theories is a revival of the original version of Keynes's theory, which appeared in the Treatise on Money as the "theory of bearishness." The most widely known version of liquidity preference is misspecified in that it conflates two distinct phenomena--changes in money balances required to effect a fluctuating stream of current or planned transactions as against portfolio disequilibrium--into a single demand for money function.
Soviet Growth & American Textbooks

We examine the treatment of Soviet growth in successive editions of American economics textbooks published between 1960 and 1980. What we find repeatedly is over-confidence in the potential for Soviet growth and an asymmetric response to past forecast errors. More than this, the textbooks report faster Soviet income growth combined with a constant ratio of Soviet–US income. Textbooks that abstracted from these institutional details (thin) offered a wider range of application than those which focused on one society (thick). A simple way to distinguish these two traditions is whether the book used a productivity possibility frontier [PPF] for cross-societal comparisons. Thick accounts did not while thin ones did. It was in the institutional dimension that the account by Tarshis differed from that of Samuelson.
The ecological causes of individual specialisation

Many generalist populations are composed of specialised individuals, whose niches are small subsets of the population niche. This 'individual specialisation' is a widespread phenomenon in natural populations, but until recently few studies quantified the magnitude of individual specialisation and how this magnitude varies among populations or contexts. Such quantitative approaches are necessary for us to understand how ecological interactions influence the amount of among-individual variation, and how the amount of variation might affect ecological dynamics. Herein, we review recent studies of individual specialisation, emphasising the novel insights arising from quantitative measures of diet variation. Experimental and comparative studies have confirmed long-standing theoretical expectations that the magnitude of among-individual diet variation depends on the level of intra and interspecific competition, ecological opportunity and predation. In contrast, there is little empirical information as to how individual specialisation affects community dynamics. We discuss some emerging methodological issues as guidelines for researchers studying individual specialisation, and make specific recommendations regarding avenues for future research.
Inhibition of Monoacylglycerophosphate Formation by Chlorophenoxyisobutyrate and β-benzalbutyrate

Abstract Monoacylglycerophosphate is the major product formed when sn-glycerol-3-P is esterified by rat liver microsomes, palmitoyl-CoA, and albumin at pH 6.5. The effect of two hypolipidemic agents, chlorophenoxyisobutyrate and β-benzalbutyrate, on monoacylglycerophosphate synthesis was studied. Both agents (0.5 to 1.0 mm) inhibited monoacylglycerophosphate synthesis by 10 to 20%. Removal of albumin from the incubation mixture produced an effect similar to the addition of chlorophenoxyisobutyrate and β-benzalbutyrate. Palmitoyl-CoA is bound by albumin and microsomal protein. Addition of both drugs decreased binding of palmitoyl-CoA by albumin and increased microsomal-bound palmitoyl-CoA, without increasing the free palmitoyl-CoA. An increase in microsomal-bound palmitoyl-CoA above 20 nmoles per mg of protein resulted in reduced monoacylglycerophosphate formation. Therefore, both agents reduced monoacylglycerophosphate formation in part by raising the concentration of microsomal-bound palmitoyl-CoA. However, both agents inhibited the reaction in the absence of albumin and under conditions in which microsomal-bound palmitoyl-CoA was held constant. These agents had no effect on several other enzymes in the pathway of glycerolipid synthesis. Therefore, chlorophenoxyisobutyrate and β-benzalbutyrate appear to be direct inhibitors of monoacylglycerophosphate formation. This inhibition may explain their early hypolipidemic effect in vivo.
Two Human Neonatal IgM Antibodies Encoded by Different Variable-Region Genes Bind the Same Linear Peptide: Evidence for a Stereotyped Repertoire of Epitope Recognition

Two monoclonal IgM Abs have been produced from lymphocytes isolated from two human umbilical cord bloods. These mAbs recognize a conformational epitope present in a CNBr digestion fraction of lactoferrin. Linear epitopes recognized by each mAb were selected from several phage display peptide libraries. In each case, phages displaying a peptide with a motif defined by [WF],G,[EQS],N were recovered. Phages displaying that motif bound equally well to either mAb but did not bind to control IgM. A peptide bearing this motif competed with the phage-displayed peptides for binding to either mAb. The same peptide also competes with a component of the CNBr digestion fraction of lactoferrin for Ab binding in ELISA. The Abs use different families of VH, JH, and VK gene cassettes but use the same JK cassette. All segments are virtually identical to their germline gene counterparts. This work provides further evidence that certain innate specificities are stereotyped among individuals.
Abstract T P146: Vitamin D Deficiency is Associated With Stroke in Black and White Participants of the REGARDS Study

Objective: Black Americans are at greater risk of both stroke and vitamin D deficiency than white Americans. We have previously shown that both higher dietary vitamin D and sunlight exposure are associated with decreased risk of stroke; however, serum 25(OH) is thought to be a better marker of vitamin D status. Methods: Using a case cohort design, we examined the association of plasma 25(OH)D with incident stroke in the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study, a cohort of black and white participants from across the United States enrolled between 2003 and 2007. Medical records were reviewed by physicians and strokes were classified on the basis of symptoms and neuroimaging. Strokes through July 1, 2011 were included. A stratified cohort sample was selected to ensure approximately equal numbers of black and white participants and an equal distribution across ages. We used Cox proportional hazards models weighted back to the original 30,239 participants, excluding those with history of stroke. Serum 25(OH)D was measured by Immunodetection Systems ELISA. Results: Over mean follow-up of 4.4 years, there were 539 ischemic and 71 hemorrhagic strokes. The stroke-free sub-cohort included 939 participants. After adjustment for age, race, sex, education, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, atrial fibrillation, heart disease, physical activity, kidney function, calcium and phosphorous, 25(OH)D level 30 ng/mL. The direction of association was similar for hemorrhagic stroke though not statistically significant (HR=1.59; 95%CI=0.78, 3.24). Vitamin D deficiency was associated with an increased risk of all stroke (HR=1.54; 95%CI=1.05, 2.23). This effect was greater in blacks (HR=2.09; 95%CI=1.09, 3.99) than whites (HR=1.38; 95%CI=0.78, 2.42). Results were not as strong when we modeled 25(OH)D as a continuous variable (HR=0.99 per 1 ng/ml change in 25(OH)D; 95%CI=0.98, 1.01). Discussion: Similar to low vitamin D intake, vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for incident stroke. These findings support evidence from cardiovascular and cancer epidemiology that treating low 25(OH)D may prevent strokes.
Heat Transfer in a Rectangular Plate Fin with Inner Circular Boundaries

Employing a special class of functions, the problem of steady-state heat transfer in a rectangular plate fin with 4N* inner circular boundaries are solved. It is assumed that the outer and inner bo...
Modeling the temporal extent of actions

In this paper, we present a framework for estimating what portions of videos are most discriminative for the task of action recognition. We explore the impact of the temporal cropping of training videos on the overall accuracy of an action recognition system, and we formalize what makes a set of croppings optimal. In addition, we present an algorithm to determine the best set of croppings for a dataset, and experimentally show that our approach increases the accuracy of various state-of-the-art action recognition techniques.
Comments on Using Absolute Spectrophotometry of Wolf-Rayet Stars

Garmany et al. (1984) have conducted a study involving spectrophotometric scans of 13 Wolf-Rayet stars. They have found that the application of a 'standard' reddening law to the observed data gives spurious results in many cases. They concluded also that previous attempts to determine the intrinsic continua and the effective temperatures of Wolf-Rayet stars are inadequate. In the present study the conclusions of Garmany et al. are evaluated. According to this evaluation, it has not been demonstrated by Garmany et al., beyond a reasonble doubt, that the interstellar extinction law varies greatly from Wolf-Rayet star to Wolf-Rayet star. The procedure followed by Garmany et al. to find the apparent shape of the ultraviolet continuum of a Wolf-Rayet star is unsatisfactory for a number of reasons.
A dynamic analysis of the wetland mitigation process and its effects on no net loss policy

Abstract Since 1980, U.S. regulations have required compensatory mitigation for wetland losses, often through wetland creation or restoration. In 1987, the National Wetlands Policy Forum recommended that federal policy should aim to achieve overall “no net loss” of the country’s remaining wetland acreage and function. Controversy has surrounded recent reports that laud the achievement of no net loss while citing the virtual elimination of certain types of wetland losses in certain areas. However, little discussion in this debate has centered on the dynamic nature of wetland loss and restoration. Evidence has shown that temporal lags in wetland restoration can temporarily reduce wetland function and impose high costs on society. This paper analyzes wetland loss and compensation as dynamic processes that include temporal lags prevalent in various mitigation techniques. Here, a system dynamics model of the mitigation process is used to explore wetland alteration and mitigation data collected between 1993 and 2004 for the Chicago, IL region. This model includes vital factors associated with mitigation policy, including mitigation failure rates, varying mitigation ratios, and the temporal lags and head starts inherent in mitigation banking, permittee responsible mitigation, and in-lieu fee mitigation programs. Results demonstrate that delays in initiating and completing restoration activities mean that frequent, temporary wetland losses can easily contribute to a consistent and considerable net functional loss over time. I conclude by discussing methods for minimizing net temporary losses and reducing wetland restoration lag costs.
Prevalence of Platelet Transfusion Reactions Before and After Implementation of Leukocyte‐Depleted Platelet Concentrates by Filtration

To determine the impact of platelet leukodepletion by filtration on the overall prevalence of reported transfusion reactions associated with platelet concentrates, we audited platelet transfusion reactions after infusion of platelet concentrates reported at University Hospitals of Cleveland over 6 months before (interval 1, July 1, 1989 to December 31, 1989) and after (interval 2, July 1, 1990 to December 31, 1990) implementation of the Pall PL 50 filter on our adult Hematology-Oncology inpatient unit (Division 60). Thirty-two (1.7%) of 1,901 random, pooled platelet transfusion events resulted in blood bank transfusion reaction workups in interval 1, compared to 90 (5.3%) of 1,704 in interval 2 (p < 0.001). The Division 60 service accounted for more of our hospital-wide platelet reactions after implementation of the filter in interval 2 (84%) than before filtration in interval 1 (42%), p = 0.002. The prevalence of reaction workups for Division 60 was 0.6% for interval 1, compared to 4.3% for interval 2 (p < 0.001). No differences were found between interval 1 and interval 2 for the rate of discontinuation of platelet transfusion (36 vs. 32%, p = 0.14), rate of premedication for platelet transfusion (72 vs. 65%, p = 0.6), percentage of direct antiglobulin test-positive reactions (17 vs. 5.4%, p = 0.09), percentage showing icteric/hemolyzed serum (15 vs. 4.4%, p = 0.09), or reactions believed to be due to red blood cell incompatibility (8.8 vs. 1.1%, p = 0.1).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Oscillatory flow with heat transfer in a square cavity

A computational study is presented for the flow inside an oscillatory cavity. The numerical scheme employs a semi‐implicit, time‐splitting method to integrate the two‐dimensional full Navier–Stokes equations satisfying continuity to machine accuracy. The efficient use of direct solvers for the uncoupled momentum and pressure equations is demonstrated. The oscillatory cavity flow is studied considering the effects of heat transfer, Reynolds number, and oscillatory Stokes number.