cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Surface Foam and L-Band Microwave Radiometer Measurements in High Winds

The ocean surface roughness and foam coverage are the two important elements in the electromagnetic (EM) thermal emission computation. The foam contribution accounts for the air modifying the dielectric property of the water side interface layer. It can be modeled using a mixing rule of the air and water relative permittivities weighted by the air fraction and foam-free portion in the EM-influence volume, respectively. For high EM frequencies, the air fraction can be approximated by the whitecap fraction given as a function of wind speed empirically established with oceanographic observations. This simplification works very well for C band and higher frequencies but overestimates the foam effects for the L-band; the air fraction needs to be reduced compared to the whitecap fraction. Through the thermal emission analysis applied to several data sets of radiometer measurements in high winds, a function relating the air fraction and whitecap coverage is established. Incorporating the proposed function, the thermal emission model computations are in very good agreement with radiometer measurements at 1.4, 4.7, 6, 10, 18, 23, and 37 GHz with various incidence angles and both vertical and horizontal polarizations. Comparing the foam and roughness components contributing to the wind-induced thermal emission, the roughness contribution dominates over a broad wind speed range. Except for the vertical polarization near the 55° incidence angle, the roughness contribution is almost always greater than the foam contribution to well above 20 m/s wind speed, the crossover wind speed for the foam contribution to exceed roughness contribution is dependent on the frequency, incidence angle, and polarization.
Directed, Nickel-Catalyzed Umpolung 1,2-Carboamination of Alkenyl Carbonyl Compounds

We report a regioselective, nickel-catalyzed syn-1,2-carboamination of nonconjugated alkenyl carbonyl compounds with O-benzoyl hydroxylamine (N–O) electrophiles and aryl/alkylzinc nucleophiles to afford β- and γ-amino acid derivatives. This method enables preparation of products containing structurally diverse tertiary amine motifs, including heterocycles, and can also be used to form quaternary carbon centers. The reaction takes advantage of a tethered 8-aminoquinoline directing group to control the regiochemical outcome and suppress two-component coupling between the N–O electrophile and organozinc nucleophile.
Education and cognitive reserve in old age.

Objective To assess the contribution of education to cognitive reserve. Methods Analyses are based on older participants in a longitudinal clinical-pathologic cohort study who had annual cognitive testing (n = 2,899) and subgroups that developed incident dementia (n = 696), died, and underwent a neuropathologic examination from which 10 neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular markers were derived (n = 752), or both (n = 405). Cognitive test scores were converted to a standard scale and averaged to yield composite measures of cognition. Results Participants had a mean of 16.3 years of education (SD = 3.7, range 0–30). In all participants, education was associated with initial level of global cognition but not rate of cognitive change. In those who developed dementia, rate of global cognitive decline accelerated a mean of 1.8 years before the diagnosis, but education was not related to the onset or rate of accelerated decline. In the deceased, rate of global cognitive decline accelerated a mean of 3.4 years before death, but higher educational attainment was related to earlier (not later) onset of accelerated decline and unrelated to rate of acceleration. Higher education was associated with lower likelihood of gross and microscopic cerebral infarcts but not with other neuropathologic markers. Education was not related to global cognitive change not attributable to neuropathologic burden and did not decrease the association of higher neuropathologic burden with more rapid cognitive decline. Conclusion The results suggest that the contribution of education to cognitive reserve is limited to its association with level of cognitive function before old age.
Improved Macular Capillary Flow on Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography After Panretinal Photocoagulation for Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy.

Purpose This study evaluated the macular microvascular changes in eyes with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) following panretinal photocoagulation (PRP). Design Using optical coherence tomographic angiography (OCTA), we prospectively studied 10 eyes of 10 subjects with high-risk PDR immediately before, at 1 month, and at 3-6 months following PRP, using a 3- × 3-mm OCTA scan at each visit. Methods The following parameters were calculated for the superficial (SCP), middle (MCP), and deep capillary plexuses (DCP): parafoveal vessel density (VD), adjusted flow index (AFI), and percent area of nonperfusion (PAN). Parafoveal SCP vessel-length density (VLD) was also evaluated. We performed univariate and multivariable statistics, adjusting for age and signal strength. To model the hemodynamic effect of PRP, we also present a mathematical model based on electrical circuits. Results We found no significant difference for the vascular density parameters following PRP, except for decreased density at the MCP at the latest timepoint in the adjusted multivariable model. PAN, a metric of nonperfusion adjusted for noise, and AFI, a surrogate metric of blood flow, showed significant increases at all capillary levels in the adjusted model. Our mathematical model explained how PRP would increase macular blood flow. Conclusions Using OCTA, we found an overall increase in the flow metrics of all capillary layers in the macula following PRP, unrelated to macular edema or thickening, in line with the mathematical model. Our results suggest an overall redistribution of blood flow to the posterior pole following PRP, adding a new dimension to our understanding of the complex biologic effects of PRP in PDR. NOTE: Publication of this article is sponsored by the American Ophthalmological Society.
Developing a patient decision aid for women aged 70 and older with early stage, estrogen receptor positive, HER2 negative, breast cancer.

Abstract Objectives Since women ≥70 years with early stage, estrogen receptor positive (ER+), HER2 negative breast cancer face several preference-sensitive treatment decisions, the investigative team aimed to develop a pamphlet decision aid (DA) for such women. Materials and methods The content of the DA was informed by literature review, international criteria, and expert feedback, and includes information on benefits and risks of lumpectomy versus mastectomy, lymph node surgery, radiotherapy after lumpectomy, and endocrine therapy. It considers women's overall health and was written using low literacy principles. Women from two Boston-based hospitals who were diagnosed in the past 6–24 months were recruited to provide feedback on the DA and its acceptability. The DA was iteratively revised based on their qualitative input. Results Of 48 eligible women contacted, 35 (73%) agreed to participate. Their mean age was 74.3 years; 33 (94%) were non-Hispanic white; and 24 (67%) were college graduates. Overall, 26 (74%) thought the length of the DA was just right, 29 (83%) thought all or most of the information was clear, 32 (91%) found the DA helpful, and 33 (94%) would recommend it. In open ended comments, participants noted that the DA was clear, well-organized, and would help women prepare for and participate in treatment decision-making. Conclusions The investigative team developed a novel breast cancer treatment DA that is acceptable to women ≥70 years with a history of ER+, HER2-, early stage breast cancer. Next, the DA's efficacy needs to be tested with diverse older women newly diagnosed with breast cancer.
Ethics proved in geometrical order: by Benedict de Spinoza, edited by Matthew J. Kisner, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 2018,pp. xlix + 272, $62.99 (hb) ISBN: 978-1-10706-9718

Of any translation of a philosophical text we should expect at least three things: (i) that the rendering of key terms be systematic and consistent, (ii) that the language of the text be made as ac...
Quality Initiative to Improve Compliance With Perioperative Anticoagulation.

PURPOSE:Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in gynecologic oncology surgical patients. Many centers use neuraxial analgesia (NA), which affects the timing of ...
Lumped and distributed passive elements

Lumped and distributed elements as passive components are the constituting parts of almost any radio frequency and microwave circuit. In the section on lumped elements, resistors, capacitors and inductors are discussed. The Chapter goes on to look at distributed elements, design considerations, miniaturization, and quality factor.
Paramagnetic Resonance and Photomagnetism

In the mechansim proposed by Lewis for the phosphorescence of organic molecules, the luminescence arises from slow emission from the lowest triplet state to the ground singlet state. Because the triplet states are paramagnetic, photomagnetism is a necessary consequence of this mechanism. The investigation of paramagnetic resonance in organic phosphors permits a very detailed study of this photomagnetism. The fine structure and hyperfine structure of paramagnetic resonance spectra in these systems have permitted the identification of the triplet states, the determination of the distribution of electron spin densities in the triplet states, and the gathering of detailed structural information on the orientation of phosphorescing molecules in host crystals.
Cannabis and Anxiety: a Biopsychosocial Model

The current paper presents a biopsychosocial model of cannabis use and anxiety that focuses explicitly on aspects of anxiety that may contribute to cannabis use and use-related problems among individuals with elevated anxiety. Elevated anxiety and anxiety disorders are common among individuals who use cannabis and those with cannabis use disorder (CUD). One possible explanation for this co-occurrence may be that symptoms associated with anxiety disorders (i.e., physiological arousal, subjective anxiety, and avoidance) may place anxious individuals at risk of using cannabis to cope with these symptoms. A review of the literature on the relationships between facets of anxiety and cannabis use and related problems partially supports the utility of this model and informs future directions for research and treatment in this area.
Direkte Methoden der Variationsrechnung

Der Euler-Lagrange-Kalkul wurde erfunden, um Extremale zu berechnen. Ist die Losung der Euler-Lagrange-Gleichung unter den zulassigen Funktionen eindeutig, kann mit physikalischen oder geometrischen Einsichten in das Problem geschlossen werden, dass sie die gesuchte Extremale ist. Daruber hinaus konnen mithilfe der zweiten Variation weitere notwendige und auch hinreichende Bedingungen gepruft werden.
Temperature-Dependent Raman Spectroscopy of Graphitic Nanomaterials

The sp2 carbonaceous molecules possess a single atomic type per unit cell, which makes these materials very good candidates for quantum mechanical studies associated with their vibrational and electronic energy levels. Significant findings, such as the Kohn anomaly, electron-phonon interactions, and other exciton-related effects, associated with these molecules can be transported to other 2-D materials. Information derived from the distinctive Raman bands from a single layer of carbon atoms also aids in gaining insight into new physics from such materials and other graphitic nanomaterials. The present paper focuses on our investigations of the G, D, and G′ bands of graphene and graphite, and the specific information provided by each. The G-band peak located at ~1586 cm−1, shared by all sp2 carbons, has been used by us extensively in the estimation of thermal conductivity and thermal expansion characteristics linked to single-walled carbon nanotubes. In addition, we have investigated functionalized graphene nanoplatelets. For all three materials (graphene, graphite, and functionalized graphene nanoplatelets), we made use of the relationship discovered by Tuinstra and Koenig based on the relative intensities of the D and G Raman bands. In addition to the analysis based on Raman spectroscopy of the nanomaterial samples, SEM visualization/dimensional analysis was also performed on the graphene nanoplatelet samples. The bulk macroscopic 3-D character of graphite was clearly apparent, in contrast to the 2-D nature of graphene. However, the graphene nanoplatelets exhibited both 2-D and 3-D characteristics, without one dimension dominating the other.
Overview of musculoskeletal ultrasound for the clinical rheumatologist.

Within the realm of rheumatology, the field of musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) has grown exponentially over the last few decades. This review, aimed at the clinical rheumatologist, provides a basic overview of the principles of image generation and the commonly used clinical applications of MSUS, while also highlighting its advantages and limitations. In particular, the role of MSUS in the assessment of early and established rheumatoid arthritis, crystalline disease, the spondyloarthropathies and Sjogren's disease is discussed in more detail and by reviewing the pertinent literature.
Summative and ultimate analysis of live leaves from southern U.S. forest plants for use in fire modeling.

Abstract Laboratory derived composition and pyrolysis data are essential inputs for the modeling of fire behavior. Recently, fire research has focused on live fuels including living wood and leaves which exhibit sharp differences in moisture levels and chemical composition as compared to dead fuels. These leaf components have fuel properties which function in the spread of wildfire and must be considered in order to produce nuanced predictive models that reflect real life conditions. The goal of this study was to assemble a suite of methods that would achieve summative mass closure for analysis of live leaves from 12 tree and plant species from the southeastern United States (consisting of broadleaves, conifers, grasses and palmettos). Most of the procedures used were adapted from standard methods commonly used for biomass analysis at the Forest Products Laboratory (FPL), National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) and others. A mass closure (aka mass balance) of 95 to 100 % was achieved for 10 of the 12 species...
RESTRICTED MOBILITY OF INFLUENZA HEMAGGLUTININ ON HELA CELL PLASMA MEMBRANES

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the lateral mobility of influenza viral antigens on the surfaces of infected HeLa cells. When cells are exposed to a mouse monoclonal antibody to the measles hemagglutinin, followed by fluorescein-conjugated anti-mouse immunoglobulin, the measles HA is observed to form a unipolar distribution. The cytoskeleton has been reported to be important for the maturation of several enveloped viruses, and its alteration has been observed to either enhance or inhibit the capping of viral or cellular antigens in various systems. No capping has been observed, however, when purified virions have been fused to the cell membrane under identical conditions. This observation suggests that the restricted mobility of influenza HA on HeLa cell surfaces may involve viral internal proteins. The fact that influenza HA exhibits mobility on the HeLa cell membrane after insertion by fusion with vesicles suggests that the M protein may play a role in the restriction of lateral mobility. It will be of interest to determine whether the mobility of influenza HA on cell surfaces varies in different cell types.
Dynamic Response of Fluid and Wall Temperatures During Pressurized Discharge of a Liquid from a Container

During the pressurized-discharge of a liquid from a container there is a transient heat transfer interaction between the pressurizing gas and the surfaces on the interior of the container which it wets, including the liquid interface. The outside surfaces of the container may also be subject to a simultaneous heat transfer interaction with an ambient. In addition, a mass transfer interaction can occur at the gas-liquid interface, should the liquid be at a temperature below the saturation temperature of the pressurizing gas. The latter condition occurs in most cryogenic applications where pressurization is accomplished using a gas of the same substance as the liquid, This mass transfer can be estimated [1, 2] and appears not to be large. The principal effect is the identification of the pressurizing gas temperature at the gas-liquid interface as the saturation temperature corresponding to its pressure [3, 4].
On finite mixture modeling and model-based clustering of directed weighted multilayer networks

Abstract A novel approach relying on the notion of mixture models is proposed for modeling and clustering directed weighted networks. The developed methodology can be used in a variety of settings including multilayer networks. Computational issues associated with the developed procedure are effectively addressed by the use of MCMC techniques. The utility of the methodology is illustrated on a set of experiments as well as applications to real-life data containing export trade amounts for European countries.
Time Trends in Perioperative Characteristics and Health Outcomes in Hispanic Patients Undergoing Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

This study analyzed the yearly trends in procedure utilization, comorbidity profiles, hospital length of stay (LOS), and 30-day outcomes in Hispanic/Latino patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Risk stratification for the development of postsurgical adverse events (AEs) was also investigated. The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) was queried for all Hispanic/Latino patients who underwent primary, elective TKA between 2011 and 2017. Thirty-day outcomes and risk factors were determined using multivariate models that controlled for baseline and perioperative differences. A total of 12,767 Hispanic/Latino patients were identified. Over the study period, the rate of TKA utilization increased by 108%. During the same time, there were significant reductions in the rates of COPD (1.9% vs. 2.9%, p = 0.015), anemia (18.0% vs. 23.5%, p 100 min (35.2% vs. 39.4%, p 2 days (41.3% vs. 75.6%, p 65 years, male sex, chronic steroid use, ASA > 2, diabetes, bleeding disorder, chronic kidney disease, and procedure length > 100 min. While the recent trends in procedure utilization, comorbidity profiles, and LOS in Hispanic/Latino patients undergoing primary TKA are reassuring, these have not been accompanied with improved postoperative safety. Patients with bleeding disorders, chronic steroid use, and those admitted from facilities other than home appear to be at highest risk for developing 30-day AEs.
Abstract 16694: Left Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain Predicts Ventricular Arrhythmias in Patients With Implanted Cardiac Devices

Introduction: Abnormal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is the traditional parameter used to assess the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD), but most SCD events occur in patients with LVEF ...
Gender Marginalization in Sports Participation through Advertising: The Case of Nike

The sport sector functions as a site of health-promotion by encouraging and enabling individuals to invest in their health and giving them tools to do so. This investment is often initiated by, or altered by, role modeling, or seeing other individuals engaging in sport. This could include family or peers but could also include depictions of sport in popular media. Inclusive role-modeling could subsequently encourage more sport participation, thus expanding access to health benefits that arise from sport. However, stereotypical depictions of sports role models could make sports seem like a more exclusive space and discourage participation. We examine a case study of a prominent athletic brand and their advertising to examine the ways they expand or reify stereotypes of gender in sport. Through a qualitative content analysis of 131 commercials released by Nike in the past decade, we explore whether their stated goals of being a socially progressive company extend to genuinely diverse and inclusive portrayals of gender in their commercials. Our results indicate that Nike commercials continue to treat sports as a predominantly and stereotypically masculine realm, therefore marginalizing athletes who are female, who do not fit traditional gender binaries, or who do not display traditionally masculine qualities. We also find that the bulk of athletes portrayed by Nike are those who adhere to gender stereotypes. Despite their purported goal of encouraging individuals to participate in sports, Nike’s promotion of gendered sport behaviors may be having an opposite effect for some consumers by discouraging sports participation for those who do not align with the gendered behavior Nike promotes. The stereotyped role modeling of the sport sector portrayed in a majority of Nike commercials could dissuade already marginalized individuals from participating in the health-promoting behaviors available through sport.
Impact of elevated BMI and types of comorbid conditions on health-related quality of life in a nationally representative US sample.

OBJECTIVE Elevated BMI is associated with multiple chronic conditions including diabetes and CVD. Patients with overweight or obesity may also suffer from comorbidities not directly related to the pathophysiology of elevated BMI. The current study sought to determine the impact of BMI and different types of chronic conditions on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes. DESIGN Six weight categories by BMI were identified: underweight, normal weight, overweight, Class-I obesity, Class-II obesity and Class-III obesity. Twenty chronic conditions were considered and categorised as elevated BMI-related (concordant) or -unrelated (discordant) conditions. HRQoL outcomes were measured using Short Form-6 Dimensions (SF-6D). Multivariable regression models were performed to examine the impact of type, number of comorbid conditions and BMI categories on SF-6D scores. SETTING Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (2013-2015). PARTICIPANTS Nationally representative sample of US population; 18 years or older (n 58 960). RESULTS Of the sample, 1·7 %, 32·9 %, 34·0 % and 31·4 % were classified as underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese, respectively. The SF-6D scores were significantly decreased across all obesity classes, with the largest reduction in Class-III obesity (0·033; P < 0·001). Additionally, individuals with obesity having one or more concordant or discordant comorbidities further reduced SF-6D scores between 0·031 and 0·148 (P-values < 0·001) or between 0·080 and 0·212 (P-values < 0·001), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Individuals with obesity had a significant reduction in HRQoL outcomes compared to those with normal BMI. Importantly, discordant comorbidity resulted in greater reduction in HRQoL outcomes compared to concordant comorbidity in subjects with elevated BMI.
On the separation of executive and legislative powers: Executive independence, liberty, and social welfare:

We explore the effects of a particular facet of separation of powers—namely, the executive’s independence from the legislature—on maintaining a norm of legislative restraint in which antagonistic f...
Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Future Directions (Where Do We Go from Here?)

Two decades of modern molecular research on NF1 has provided unprecedented advances in our understanding of the neurofibromatosis type 1 gene, its protein neurofibromin, and its functions in the complexity that defines this disease. Despite this, the translation of this information into significant patient care enhancement has lagged. Today, the field is on the cusp of overturning this delay with the revolutionary breadth and depth of research findings that will in the near future culminate in the availability of meaningful new therapies for many aspects of NF1 disease. In so doing, the promise held by the cloning of the NF1 gene and its utilization in the development of physiologically relevant animal models will be fulfilled.
Analysis of RC Shear Panels under Cyclic Loading

A nonlinear constitutive model for plain concrete subjected to cyclic biaxial stresses is described in brief. The model takes account of the compressive softening of concrete prior to reaching maximum compressive stress. Two reinforced concrete shear wall structures, one loaded monotonically and the second subjected to large cyclic load reversals are analyzed and compared with test data. Simulation of cyclic loading response is greatly improved compared to previous elastoplastic models. In addition to the improved material characterization in compression, the treatment of tensile cracking is felt to be a significant factor in the good match obtained with experimental data.
Determination of Calcium and Magnesium in Serum, Urine, Diet, and Stool by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry

Atomic absorption spectrophotometry was evaluated as a method for the determination of calcium and magnesium in serum, urine, diet, and stool, and was found a most suitable technic for a large clinical chemistry laboratory.
Policy Options for Secondary Road Construction and Management in the Commonwealth of Virginia

This report reviews the Commonwealth of Virginia’s secondary road policy in order to identify options for revising policy to improve the condition and operation of the secondary system in light of continuing reductions in secondary construction and maintenance budgets.
MgATP-independent and MgATP-dependent exocytosis. Evidence that MgATP primes adrenal chromaffin cells to undergo exocytosis.

Abstract The MgATP dependency of secretion was investigated in digitonin-permeabilized adrenal chromaffin cells. Shortly after permeabilization there is a component of Ca2+-dependent secretion that occurs in the absence of MgATP in the medium. This secretion occurs from cells which are permeable to Ca2+/[ethylene-bis(oxyethylenenitrilo)]tetraacetic acid buffers, to nucleotides, and to proteins. It is prevented by treatment of cells with metabolic inhibitors to reduce cellular ATP prior to permeabilization. The rate of MgATP-independent secretion is rapid and terminates by approximately 2 min after introduction of Ca2+. MgATP-independent secretion is labile and is lost unless Ca2+ is introduced within 8 min of permeabilization. MgATP-dependent secretion occurs at a slower rate than MgATP-independent secretion and continues at a constant rate for 12 min. Preincubation of permeabilized cells with MgATP enhances Ca2+-dependent secretion during a subsequent incubation in the absence of MgATP. Similar MgATP sensitivities are observed when MgATP is present only prior to or only during stimulation with Ca2+ with half-maximal stimulation occurring at 0.4-0.5 and 0.6 mM MgATP, respectively. The data indicate that intact cells are primed by intracellular ATP so that immediately upon permeabilization, there is a component of secretion which is independent of medium MgATP. MgATP partially maintains the primed state after permeabilization by acting before Ca2+ in the secretory pathway.
Transportation Labor Relations: Contemporary Developments, Challenges, and Strategies

A brief overview is given of some legal and operational challenges posed to transportation companies and unions by new approaches to labor relations, and some of the potential issues that may arise as the industry continues to adapt to economic changes created by deregulation and competition are identified. A need is noted for more cooperation in the labor-management relationship. The unintended effects of deregulation on the economic effects of competition in transportation is discussed. The use of bankruptcy proceedings to unilaterally abrogate or change collective bargaining agreements in the courts is also discussed. The other areas covered include the establishment of nonunion subsidiaries, outsourcing, the two-tier wage pacts, and employee participation programs.
Small molecule, peptidomimetic prodrugs as inhibitors of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3

Proc Amer Assoc Cancer Res, Volume 47, 2006 4735 Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) transmits signals from IL-6 family cytokines, EGF, Src etc., is constitutively activated in head and neck, breast, prostate, and other cancers, and is a target for cancer drug design. Stat3 is activated by phosphorylation of Tyr705 and dimerizes by reciprocal interactions between SH2 domain of one molecule and the pTyr of the second. The dimer migrates to the nucleus and initiates transcription of anti-apoptotic and cell cycling genes. To disrupt Stat3 activity we have developed a phosphopeptide-based inhibitor targeted to the SH2 domain. Our lead peptide, Ac-pTyr-Leu-Pro-Gln-Thr-Val-NH2, was modified with constrained, nonpeptidic groups to form peptidomimetics containing only one natural amino acid, Gln. The phosphate was replaced with the phosphonodifluoromethyl group to impart stability to phosphatases. The phosphonate oxygens were capped with pivaloyloxymethyl (POM) prodrug groups to enable membrane permeability. Two peptidomimetics, PM35 and PM160, inhibit constitutive Stat3 phosphorylation in breast tumor cell lines MDA MB-468 and BT20 as well as a luciferase reporter in IL-6 stimulated HEPG2 and HEP-3B hepatoma cells. PM35 was selective in inhibition Stat3 but not Stat1 or Stat5. Peptidomimetics inhibited the growth of the above breast tumor cells with IC50 values of 1-25 μM and that of MM1 multiple myeloma cells an IC50 value of 25 μM. Thus we have successfully converted a phosphopeptide to phosphatase stable, cell permeable small molecule inhibitors of Stat3.
Robotic bladder diverticulectomy: technique and surgical outcomes.

Objectives: Indications for surgical treatment of bladder diverticula include tumor, lower urinary tract symptoms refractory to medical treatment, renal dysfunction or recurrent urinary tract infections. We describe the technique and report the outcomes of robotic bladder diverticulectomy at our institution. Methods: A chart review of patients who underwent robotic bladder diverticulectomy at our institution from 2007 to 2010 was carried out. Indications for the procedure were: lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) not responding to medical treatment (2 patients), ureteral obstruction (1 patient), tumor arising in a diverticulum (2 patients) and diverticulum secondary to neurogenic bladder (1 patient). One patient also had renal dysfunction associated with ureteral insertion into the diverticulum and therefore underwent ipsilateral ureteroneocystostomy. Other additional procedures included transurethral resection of the prostate (1 patient) and bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection (1 patient). Perioperative and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Results: Six patients (median age 61.5 years, range 19–75) underwent da Vinci diverticulectomy using a transperitoneal approach without the need for open conversion. Median operative time was 232 min (135–360 min.). Median estimated blood loss was 100 mL (50–150 mL). The Foley catheter was removed after a negative cystogram and median time to catheter removal was 7 days (7–12 days). Median hospital stay was 3 days (2–5 days). The only complication was a urinary tract infection managed with antibiotics. Conclusions: Robotic surgery represents a reasonable minimally invasive treatment option for resection of bladder diverticula when indicated.
Effect of overburden thickness on the copper microstructure of dual-inlaid interconnect structures

Dual‐inlaid Cu interconnects with different overburden thicknesses were fabricated and subsequently annealed applying identical conditions. The microstructure in trenches was characterized by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) before and after chemical mechanical polishing (CMP). For samples subjected to CMP, grain size and texture were determined from top‐view EBSD scanning on arrays of trenches. Smaller grain size and stronger Cu (111) texture were observed in the samples with thinner overburden layer. Further EBSD investigations were carried out on cross‐sections of trenches in samples not subjected to CMP which suggested interplay of grain growth mechanism in trench and overburden.
Pesticide free methods of maize weevil control in stored maize for developing countries

xii CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 1 Thesis Organization 1 Literature Review 1 Maize 1 Maize weevil 5 Maize storage 6 Hermetic storage 8 Amaranth 9 Physical disturbance as a control measure to insects 12 Synopsis 13 General Objectives 14
PRODUCTION OF CHARM, CHARMONIUM, AND BEAUTY IN 800 GEV PROTON-NUCLEON COLLISIONS a

Fermilab Experiment 789 took data during the 1991 ﬁxed-target run onthe production of charm, charmonium, and beauty in 800GeV proton-nucleoncollisions. Several results have been published or submitted for publication;only a brief synopsis will be given here. The apparatus is shown schematicallyin Figs. 1 and 2; it is based on the pre-existing E605/772 spectrometer, aug-mented for this run primarily by the addition of two silicon-microstrip vertextelescopes (Fig. 2), one above and one below the beam. In most events onlytwo oppositely-charged particle tracks traversing the entire spectrometer arereconstructed, one passing through each telescope.
Variations with Age in the Tissue Content of Vitamins and Hormones

Publisher Summary This chapter presents a review of the available data concerning the variation with age in the tissue concentrations of vitamins and hormones in human subjects and other vertebrates. This survey is limited to those vitamins and hormones about which sufficient observations have been reported to permit certain conclusions to be drawn with regard to the age correlation; in this connection, the possible factors suggested by the investigators as being responsible for the age changes will be briefly mentioned. Although the physiological significance of the tissue concentrations of vitamins and hormones has not been fully established, the preparation of a systematic survey of the correlation between age and the tissue levels of these compounds may provide information of some interest and will permit comparisons between age patterns in various organs and species.
Introducing new standards to the user community

Standardization is a necessity if technology is to move forward expeditiously and efficiently. Most industry research and development is geared towards immediate goals. Consequently standardization is needed to speed breakthroughs and permit technology transfer to manufacturing to take place quickly. VHDL will be an industry wide 'common language' for electronic design. Accepting new standards has an up front cost to the industry. Consequently the size of the potential (future) payback will determine the enthusiasm with which it will be accepted or absorbed into the 'system'. >
Fusarium head blight resistance in hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum)-Lophopyrum genetic lines and tagging of the alien chromatin by PCR markers.

The objective of this research was to identify Fusarium head blight (FHB) resistance in wheat (Triticum aestivum)-Lophopyrum genetic lines that might complement FHB resistance in common wheat; and to identify DNA markers that can be used to tag the resistance gene in the alien chromatin (E or el2 genome) for the development of improved wheat cultivars. FHB resistance was evaluated in 19 Chinese Spring-Lophopyrum elongatum (EE) substitution lines, two Thatcher-L. ponticum (el1 and el2) substitution lines, and four Thatcher-L. ponticum translocation lines. Significant resistance was identified in the substitution lines 7E(7A), 7E(7B), and 7E(7D). The homoeologous chromosome, 7el2,also showed resistance in the Thatcher genetic background. Both the Thatcher-7el1 substitution and translocation lines were susceptible, like Thatcher, indicating that there is no resistance gene on the 7el1 chromosome. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) and cleaved amplified polymorphic sequences (CAPS) in homoeologous group 7 chromosomes were used to identify DNA markers located on 7E and 7el2. As expected, the transferability of wheat SSR markers to Lophopyrum is low. Of the 52 SSR markers that we tested, only five were found to be co-dominant on 7E of L. elongatum versus 7A, 7B, and 7D, one of which is also positive on 7el2. A CAPS marker, derived from the RFLP probe PSR129, can serve as a dominant marker for 7el2 chromatin.
A computer program for simulating a network of interacting neurons. I. Organization and physiological assumptions.

Abstract PABLO is the most recent version of a series of digital-computer programs designed to simulate interacting neurons. Programmed in FORTRAN, it is organized to jump from event to event; the state variables are updated only when necessary as, for example, when an impulse arrives at a synapse. The neuron model allows absolute and relative refractoriness, linear or nonlinear summation of synaptic potentials, pacemaker activity, and, post-inhibitory rebound. Synaptic mechanisms include quantal release of transmitter, synaptic noise, and facilitation or antifacilitation. Neurons can be connected by axons, terminating in synapses, in any specified fashion. Each axon segment has its own conduction time and probability of failure to transmit an impulse. Output of PABLO is the set of times of impulse production or arrival in specified network components; these times are available for display or statistical analysis by any of a number of other, compatible programs. Part I describes the overall organization of the program and the physiological assumptions it embodies.
Sovereignty and Territorial Borders in a Global Age

In an age marked by economic globalization, regional integration, and increasing transborder flows, some have questioned the continued viability of state sovereignty and territorial borders. This essay examines the conditions of sovereignty and borders in a world of trading states, exploring how conceptions of sovereignty are reflected in the grand strategy of advanced industrial democracies. By disaggregating sovereignty into its constitutive parts, the essay not only provides insights into how these facets affect modern statecraft but also reveals an underconceptualized dimension: societal sovereignty. Whereas sovereignty is willingly ceded by states to gain economically from increased trade and capital mobility, public concern over the social, political, and economic effects of high levels of international migration indicate a growing sensitivity to the maintenance of sovereignty over access to social and political community. In this process, borders serve an increasingly important symbolic function in maintaining stable conceptions of national identity that constitute the cornerstone of the nation-state.
Functionalized carbon nanotubes for detecting viral proteins

We investigated the biocompatibility, specificity, and activity of a ligand−receptor-protein system covalently bound to oxidized single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) as a model proof-of-concept for employing such SWNTs as biosensors. SWNTs were functionalized under ambient conditions with either the Knob protein domain from adenovirus serotype 12 (Ad 12 Knob) or its human cellular receptor, the CAR protein, via diimide-activated amidation. We confirmed the biological activity of Knob protein immobilized on the nanotube surfaces by using its labeled conjugate antibody and evaluated the activity and specificity of bound CAR on SWNTs, first, in the presence of fluorescently labeled Knob, which interacts specifically with CAR, and second, with a negative control protein, YieF, which is not recognized by biologically active CAR proteins. In addition, current−gate voltage (I−Vg) measurements on a dozen nanotube devices explored the effect of protein binding on the intrinsic electronic properties of the SWNTs,...
Dominant Auger Process in Electron-Impact Ionization of Mo Ions

Total ionization cross sections for the highly stripped Mo ions by high-energy electron impact are estimated, including both the direct ionization of outer-shell electrons and the excitation of inner-shell electrons followed by an Auger emission. For highly stripped ions, the excitation to discrete states predominates and enhances the Auger contribution. For the ${\mathrm{Mo}}^{24+}$ ions, the Auger ionization of the $L$-shell electrons dominates over the direct $M$-shell ionization.
Comparing Nonprofit Charter and Traditional Public School Board Member Perceptions of the Public, Conflict, and Financial Responsibility: Is there a difference and does it matter?

AbstractIn this paper, survey data collected from nonprofit charter school board and elected public school board members in Minnesota is used to test three hypotheses relating to theories of New Public Management, democratic governance, and small group dynamics. We find that nonprofit charter school board members perceive lower levels of conflict, place less priority on the general public, and perceive a higher degree of governance responsibly in the area of financial management, than elected board members. We conclude that the increased use of nonprofit charter schools has potentially substantial implications on accountability and effectiveness in the delivery of public education.
Real exchange rates, economic performance, and trade balances in the central european free trade association

The relationships between real exchange rates dynamics, domestic economic growth, and external economic positions are examined for four East European countries: Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. Results show that in Poland the dynamic of the trade balance is independent of both the real exchange rate and industrial production. In both Hungary and Slovakia, trade balances appear to have strong autonomous components, albeit in circumstances where the influence of real exchange rates and industrial production dynamics cannot be entirely denied. The Czech Republic's situation is, however, substantially different from its Central European Free Trade Assocation partners. The growing trade balance deficit appears to be determined by both the continuing real appreciation of the Czech currency and a mildly accelerating industrial production growth. Both are the consequence of accelerating capital inflow.
Subcategorical phonetic mismatches slow phonetic judgments.

When an [s] or an [s] fricative noise is combined with vocalic formant transitions appropriate to a different fricative, the resulting consonantal percept is usually that of the noise. To see if the mismatch affects processing time, five experiments were run. Three experiments examined reaction time for identification of [s] and [s], as well as the whole syllable (in one experiment) or only the vowel (in the others). The stimuli contained either appropriate or inappropriate formant transitions, and the vowel information in the noise was either appropriate or not. Subjects were significantly slower in all tasks in identifying stimuli with inappropriate transitions or inappropriate vowel information. Similar results were obtained with stop-vowel syllables in which the release bursts of syllable initials [p] and [k]were transposed in syllables containing the vowels [a] and [u], In the fifth experiment, enough silence was introduced between the initial fricatives and vocalic segment for the vocalic formant transitions to be perceived as a stop (e.g., [stu] from [su]). Mismatched transitions still had an effect on reaction time, as did mismatches of vowel quality. The results indicate that listeners take into account all available cues, even when the phonetic judgment seems to be based on only some of the cues.
Deviatoric stress in a quasi-hydrostatic diamond anvil cell: Effect on the volume-based pressure calibration

The deviatoric stress in gold as a function of pressure and temperature, in a diamond anvil cell with neon as the pressure medium, is measured based on gold diffraction peaks. We find that the deviatoric stress becomes detectable at a pressure of about 15 GPa and reaches 0.62 GPa by 30 GPa. Upon heating, the deviatoric stress decreases rapidly and disappears at a temperature of about 650 K. The effect of deviatoric stress on the unit cell volume measurement and further on the volume-based pressure calibration is directly proportional to K/μ of the measured material, and it is also related to the anisotropy, as well as the sign of the deviatoric stress and the orientation of the x-ray diffraction. We find that the measured unit cell volume of gold is very sensitive to the deviatoric stress due to a high value of K/μ. Although the observed deviatoric stress may be insignificant for most samples, it causes a significant systematic error on the pressure calibration based on the unit cell volume of gold.
The use of emulsions to represent dielectric materials in electromagnetic scale models

Simple emulsions are examined as materials with adjustable electrical constitutive parameters. These emulsions are mixtures of oil, saline solution, and a suitable stabilizing agent (emulsifier). Since the relative permittivities of oil and water are around two and eighty, respectively, a large range of permittivity can be obtained for the emulsions. The conductivity of the emulsions can be adjusted by changing the normality of the saline solution. A series of oil-in-water emulsions (oil droplets in water), suitable for use in scale models, is developed; this includes the selection of an appropriate emulsifier. The electrical constitutive parameters of these emulsions are adjustable over wide ranges, and are predictable from a simple formula. As an example, an emulsion that is a scale model for red-clay earth is described. >
Predicting preterm birth: where do the major challenges lie?

The cost of prematurity, accounted for in both human currency and financial dollars, has fueled decades of research committed to developing models with the ability to predict preterm birth (PTB). The goal of these models is either to improve outcomes for preterm infants through optimizing care or to reduce the PTB rate itself. This field of research has generated contributions to our understanding of the mechanisms responsible for preterm labor and even a few clinical achievements: progesterone to prevent recurrent PTB, antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) to improve a host of neonatal outcomes and cerclage in patients with multiple prior losses consistent with cervical insufficiency.1, 2, 3 However, an overview of the literature demonstrates far more failures than successes.
Activation of lateral geniculate neurons by norepinephrine: Mediation by an α-adrenergic receptor

Adrenergic receptors in the vicinity of neurons in the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) of the rat were pharmacologically characterized using extracellular single-cell recording and microiontophoretic techniques. Application of norepinephrine (NE) at low iontophoretic currents (1–15 nA) produced a delayed activation of most LGN neurons. This activation was mimicked by various sympathomimetic amines. The relative potency series of agonists was typical of postsynaptic α-adrenergic receptors:epinephrine>NE>phenylephrine⩾ α-methylnorepinephrine>dopamine>isoproterenol. The α-antagonists phentolamine, piperoxane and WB-4101, when applied at low iontophoretic currents (<10nA), produced a selective, dose-dependent and reversible blockade of the response to NE. The β-antagonist sotalol had weak and variable effects at these currents. At low currents, the presynaptic α-agonist clonidine was also able to block the response to NE but, at higher currents, produced a partial activation of some units, suggesting that it is a weak agonist. The ability of sympathomimetic amines to activate LGN neurons correlates well with their reported affinities for brainα1-adrenoceptors labeled with [3H]WB-4101. It is concluded that NE activates neurons in the LGN via a postsynaptic orα1-adrenergic receptor.