cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Frances Harriet Williams: Unsung Social Equity Pioneer

Frances Harriet Williams was an unsung social equity pioneer in the field of public administration. Long before the Minnowbrook I Conference convened in the 1960s to discuss the importance of fairness in the provision of public services, Williams successfully promoted values of social equity and racial fairness within public administration scholarly and practitioner communities. Raised by progressive parents in the South, Williams was the only high-ranking African-American woman in the federal government during President Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration. She was directly involved in leading the Office of Price Administration to a staff that was at least 13 percent black when the rest of government was no more than 1 percent black. This work was the focus of her 1947 article in Public Administration Review, the first publication on racial equity to appear in the field's flagship journal. Her efforts and accomplishments undergird many of the ideals and practices that constitute the concept of social equity in public administration today.
From L2 interactional competence to L2 interactional repertoires: reconceptualising the objects of L2 learning

In this paper, I offer a reconsideration of interactional competence as an object of L2 learning. I argue that the field’s uptake of the concept displays a misunderstanding of, or at least a lack o...
Facilitating Multiple Programming Languages in One Space: (Abstract Only)

This lightning talk describes considerations for facilitating multiple programming languages in one space. I provide video examples of what it looks like when young coders select from four different programming languages to create projects of interest. Following an overview of what coders created in the classes I designed and facilitated, I discuss considerations for simultaneously facilitating multiple languages. This discussion includes quick suggestions for selecting and creating resources, questioning techniques, peer-to-peer mentoring, room setup, and more.
A Recursive Adaptive Hybrid Model for National and Interregional Analysis

Econometric and programming models are standard techniques for analyzing economic decisionmaking. If the constraints imposed by the underlying assumptions of each type of model could be eased or offset, it would appear that a benefit would be realized in terms of opening up new areas of investigative research. A Recursive Adaptive Hybrid (RAH) model is formulated to integrate information on the spatial pattern of supply, resource use, and technical structure (generated by the programming model) with detailed information on market structure, processes, and prices (from the econometric model), and, hence, simulate a dynamic sequence of interrelated events over space and time. Once specified, the RAH model is used to study two agricultural alternatives with respect to crop exports, acreage and production, farm prices and costs, and farm income in the United States.
American Prisoners and the Right of Access to the Courts

In 1987, Americans celebrated the 200th anniversary of the United States Constitution. It is from this document that our basic rights and responsibilities have been developed. These rights, however, have never been distributed equally to all segments of the population. For example, the rights enumerated in the Constitution have never been fully extended to those who are incarcerated. Although the rights of free citizens have been generally preserved during this 200-year period, the history of prisoners’ rights is a history of indifference and neglect.
End-On Bound Iridium Dinuclear Heterogeneous Catalysts on WO3 for Solar Water Oxidation

Heterogeneous catalysts with atomically defined active centers hold great promise for high-performance applications. Among them, catalysts featuring active moieties with more than one metal atom are important for chemical reactions that require synergistic effects but are rarer than single atom catalysts (SACs). The difficulty in synthesizing such catalysts has been a key challenge. Recent progress in preparing dinuclear heterogeneous catalysts (DHCs) from homogeneous molecular precursors has provided an effective route to address this challenge. Nevertheless, only side-on bound DHCs, where both metal atoms are affixed to the supporting substrate, have been reported. The competing end-on binding mode, where only one metal atom is attached to the substrate and the other metal atom is dangling, has been missing. Here, we report the first observation that end-on binding is indeed possible for Ir DHCs supported on WO3. Unambiguous evidence supporting the binding mode was obtained by in situ diffuse reflectanc...
The New Academic Platform: Beyond Resource Discovery.

The objective of the ARL (Association of Research Libraries) Scholars Portal initiative is the development of a suite of scholarly productivity tools and services designed to facilitate an academic user's discovery, capture, integration, manipulation, and distribution of material within the academic content universe. Librarians will need to consult and to collaborate in order to accomplish this objective: consult with their academic colleagues and collaborate with other information service providers. The initial emphasis of the initiative is on developing specifications for a Super Discovery Tool that aggregates, integrates, and delivers licensed and openly available digital content across a broad range of subject fields and from multiple institutions.
Enhancing Physical Activity in Cardiac Patients Who Report Hopelessness: Feasibility Testing of an Intervention.

Objective:Hopelessness is present in 27% of patients with ischaemic heart disease (IHD), can persist for 12 months and is associated with lack of physical activity (PA). No interventions have been ...
Mortality after hip resurfacing versus total hip arthroplasty in young patients: a single surgeon experience

Background: The aims of this study were to investigate the following questions: (I) what are the mortality rates in patients age 55 years and younger who underwent a hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA) versus a standard total hip arthroplasty (THA)? (II) is the type of operation independently associated with mortality? Methods: The database of a single high-volume surgeon was reviewed for patient’s age 55 years and younger who underwent a hip arthroplasty between 2002 and 2010. This yielded 505 HRA patients and 124 THA patients. Chi-square analysis was performed to identify a 5-year mortality rate difference between the two cohorts. Multivariable Cox-Regression analyses were used to determine whether the type of operation was independently associated with mortality. Results: There were 8 mortalities (1.6%) in the HRA cohort and 11 (8.9%) in the THA cohort, a statistically significant difference (P Conclusions: We have demonstrated that patients age 55 and younger who undergo HRA have a significantly lower mortality rate than those undergoing THA. This is consistent with multiple previously published large database studies.
Rhodium(III)-Catalyzed C–H Activation: Ligand-Controlled Regioselective Synthesis of 4‑Methyl-Substituted Dihydroisoquinolones

Rh-catalyzed C–H functionalization of O-pivaloyl benzhydroxamic acids with propene gas provides access to 4-methyl-substituted dihydroisoquinolones. Good to excellent levels of regioselectivity are...
Music Teacher Recruitment of Precollegiate and Marginalized Populations: A Review of the Literature:

The purpose of this literature review was to gather and examine current research related to the recruitment of precollegiate students into traditional music teacher education programs in the United...
4D-cubic lattice of chemical elements

A 4-dimensional periodic table of chemical elements (4D PT) is presented. The 120 elements in the n = 8 system are located on vertices of a 4D-cubic lattice and specified by Cartesian coordinates (n, l, m, s) based on the four quantum numbers. Each quantum number is represented by a vector along a different spatial direction (axes) in 4D Euclidean space. The 4D PT has a fixed topology governed by Euler–Poincare-type equation and the chemical elements have a fixed connectivity with neighboring elements within the 4D PT. Various geometric transformations by rotations and elongations of vectors enable morphing of one PT to another in a continuum while preserving the 4D topology. The 4D structure exhibits principles of complementarity and zero-cyclic sum in chemical elements. Complementarity enables the extension to n = 9 elements and beyond. The 4D PT of elements extends to isotopes and also to molecules and compounds with the same underlying principles.
Effects of Brownfield Remediation on Total Gaseous Mercury Concentrations in an Urban Landscape.

In order to obtain a better perspective of the impacts of brownfields on the land–atmosphere exchange of mercury in urban areas, total gaseous mercury (TGM) was measured at two heights (1.8 m and 42.7 m) prior to 2011–2012 and after 2015–2016 for the remediation of a brownfield and installation of a parking lot adjacent to the Syracuse Center of Excellence in Syracuse, NY, USA. Prior to brownfield remediation, the annual average TGM concentrations were 1.6 ± 0.6 and 1.4 ± 0.4 ng · m − 3 at the ground and upper heights, respectively. After brownfield remediation, the annual average TGM concentrations decreased by 32% and 22% at the ground and the upper height, respectively. Mercury soil flux measurements during summer after remediation showed net TGM deposition of 1.7 ng · m − 2 · day − 1 suggesting that the site transitioned from a mercury source to a net mercury sink. Measurements from the Atmospheric Mercury Network (AMNet) indicate that there was no regional decrease in TGM concentrations during the study period. This study demonstrates that evasion from mercury-contaminated soil significantly increased local TGM concentrations, which was subsequently mitigated after soil restoration. Considering the large number of brownfields, they may be an important source of mercury emissions source to local urban ecosystems and warrant future study at additional locations.
Nonfemoral Arterial Hemostasis Following Percutaneous Intervention Using a Focused Compression Device.

Upper extremity and tibiopedal arterial access are increasingly used during endovascular therapies. Balloon compression hemostasis devices in these anatomic locations have been described, but most utilize a compression surface extending well beyond the puncture site. We report single-center experience with an arterial puncture-focused compression device following upper extremity and tibiopedal access. A series of 249 focused compression hemostasis devices (VasoStat, Forge Medical, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA) were used in 209 patients following lower extremity (n = 63) and upper extremity (n = 186; radial: 90%) arterial access procedures using 4–7 French sheaths. Demographic, operative, and follow-up data were collected. Logistic regression was used to evaluate potential association between patient/operative variables and time to hemostasis. Primary hemostasis was achieved in 97.2% (242/249) following sheath removal; in 7 cases (2.8%) puncture site oozing occurred after initial device removal and required reapplication. Secondary hemostasis was 100% (249/249). Seven complications (2.8%) were recorded: 5 minor hematomas (2%) and 2 transient access artery occlusions (0.8%). Mean time to hemostasis enabling device removal was 55 ± 28 min. Elevated body mass index (BMI) was not associated with increased time to hemostasis (p = 0.31). Accessed artery, sheath size, and heparin dose were also not associated with time to hemostasis (p = 0.64; p = 0.74; p = 0.75, respectively). The focused compression hemostasis device enabled rapid hemostasis with a low complication rate. Time to hemostasis was independent of BMI, access site, sheath size, or heparin dose.
Performance of 18-kV Silicon Carbide High-Voltage Boost-Chopper Modules

This work presents preliminary measurements of recently-fabricated, state-of-the-art SiC Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs) and Junction Barrier Schottky (JBS) diodes co-packaged in a high-performance module. The IGBT devices have an active area of 0.3 cm2, a drift region of 160 µm, and are rated for 20 kV and 20 A. The dual JBS diodes have a chip area of 0.65 cm2 and are rated for 10 kV each and 20 A. The IGBTs were co-packaged with JBS diodes in a boost-chopper configuration and utilize Al 2 O 3 substrates for improved thermal performance. The devices-under-test were successfully tested at bus voltages up to 15 kV under resistive and inductive loads.
Techno-economic analysis of pennycress production, harvest and post-harvest logistics for renewable jet fuel

Abstract Pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.) is a winter annual oilseed crop with relatively high seed oil content (25-36%-wet basis), which can be planted as cover crop in corn-soybean rotation in the Midwestern U.S., to provide both economic benefits and ecosystem services. Pennycress oil has adequate quality for conversion to renewable jet fuel (RJF); however, the technical feasibility and cost of pennycress supply at the commercial scale have not been evaluated; so, the objective of this study was to evaluate techno-economics of the production, harvest and post-harvest logistics of pennycress as an RJF feedstock. In addition, an uncertainty analysis was performed to address the inherent variability of the parameters used for this evaluation. This study considered the feedstock supply for a biorefinery with RJF production capacity of around 19 million liters per year (i.e., 5 million gallons per year) in Ohio. Technical feasibility included the assessment of resources (land, infrastructure, machineries, fuel, labor, and consumables) for the production (i.e., planting, fertilizer and pesticide applications), harvest and post-harvest logistics (i.e., grain handling, transportation, drying and storage). Economic analyses included estimation of pennycress production and logistics costs. Annual pennycress seed requirement for the selected biorefinery capacity was estimated to be 90–115 thousand t (90% central range - CR), which would require pennycress plantation in 41–63 thousand ha (90% CR) land in corn-soybean rotation. The direct fossil fuel use ratio (i.e., fossil fuel use per liter of RJF produced) for pennycress production and logistics was estimated to be 0.06–0.09 L/L (90% CR). Estimated total cost for the production and logistics was 170–230 $/t (90% CR); and it was identified to be highly sensitive to pennycress seed yield. The outcomes of this research contribute to identifying the bottlenecks and hotspots for establishment of pennycress at the commercial scale in corn-soybean rotation in Ohio and Midwestern U.S.
Exploring the K-12 computer science curriculum standards in the U.S

In order to create early exposure and to guide more talent into computing, computer science was included in K-12 education as a new subject area in many states. Although each state has different educational goals, computer science curriculum standards ensure equality among the states, especially in guiding teaching and accessing students' achievements. In this study, we applied content analysis to investigate the published computer science standards to examine: (1) How did computer science standards fit within the whole curriculum? (2) What concepts were covered in the computer science standards in the U.S.? The results showed four approaches to housing computer science in the whole curriculum. The Computer Science Teachers Association Computer Science framework was broadly adopted. Moreover, three major concepts, computer literacy, digital citizenship, and computational thinking, were additionally emphasized at the state standard level. This study fundamentally reported K-12 CS promotion in the U.S. through an academic standard scope, which directs K-12 CS teaching and learning. Additionally, this study prompted a conversation of preparing for different kinds of computing skills at the K-12 level in the U.S. among the policy makers and scholars
COVID-19, HHV6 and MOG antibody: A perfect storm.

Abstract Background Serious neurological complications of SARS-CoV-2 are increasingly being recognized. Case We report a novel case of HHV6 myelitis with parainfectious MOG-IgG in the setting of COVID-19-induced lymphopenia and hypogammaglobulinemia. The patient experienced complete neurological recovery with gancyclovir, high dose corticosteroids, and plasma exchange. To our knowledge, this is the first case of HHV6 reactivation in the central nervous system in the setting of COVID19 infection and the first case of MOG-IgG myelitis in the setting of SARS-CoV-2 and HHV6 coinfection. Conclusion Patients with neurological manifestations in the setting of COVID19-related immunodeficiency should be tested for opportunistic infections including HHV6. Viral infection is a known trigger for MOG-IgG and therefore this antibody should be checked in patients with SARS-CoV-2 associated demyelination.
Return Encounters in Emergency Department Patients Treated with Phenobarbital Versus Benzodiazepines for Alcohol Withdrawal.

Phenobarbital has been successfully used in the emergency department (ED) to manage symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, but few studies have reported outcomes for ED patients who receive phenobarbital and are discharged. We compared return encounter rates in discharged ED patients with alcohol withdrawal who were treated with benzodiazepines and phenobarbital. This is a retrospective cohort study conducted at a single academic medical center utilizing chart review of discharged ED patients with alcohol withdrawal from July 1, 2016, to June 30, 2019. Patients were stratified according to ED management with benzodiazepines, phenobarbital, or a combination of both agents. The primary outcome was return ED encounter within three days of the index ED encounter. Multivariate logistic regression identified significant covariates of an ED return encounter. Of 470 patients who were discharged with the diagnosis of alcohol withdrawal, 235 were treated with benzodiazepines, 133 with phenobarbital, and 102 with a combination of both. Baseline characteristics were similar among the groups. However, patients who received phenobarbital were provided significantly more lorazepam equivalents compared to patients who received benzodiazepines alone. Treatment with phenobarbital, alone or in combination with benzodiazepines, was associated with significantly lower odds of a return ED visit within three days compared with benzodiazepines alone [AOR 0.45 (95% CI 0.23, 0.88) p = 0.02 and AOR 0.33 (95% CI 0.15, 0.74) p = 0.007]. Patients who received phenobarbital for alcohol withdrawal were less likely to return to the ED within three days of the index encounter. Despite similar baseline characteristics, patients who received phenobarbital, with or without benzodiazepines, were provided greater lorazepam equivalents the ED.
The effect of a safety crisis on safety culture and safety climate: The resilience of a flight training organization during COVID-19

Flight training programs incur great risks as they instruct aspiring pilots to complete flight training and licensing procedures. It is instrumental for these programs to create strong safety cultures and climates to promote the highest level of safety possible. The COVID-19 pandemic raised many safety concerns across a variety of industries, especially the aviation industry. This study investigates the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on the safety culture and safety climate of the flight training organization at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU). For this purpose, we collected longitudinal data for the years 2018 through 2021 including the variables of safety culture and safety climate. The results of this research suggest that various safety culture and safety climate variables were impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on these results, leadership of the flight training program was able to mitigate and adjust safety policies and procedures to improve the safety culture and climate and ensure continuous accident-free performance. Finally, the viability of these and other safety procedures for the safe management of future crises are discussed.
Can short sellers constrain aggressive non-GAAP reporting?

Prior research finds an association between short selling volume and aggressive non-GAAP earnings disclosures but does not explore whether increased short selling pressure actually constrains aggressive non-GAAP reporting. Attribution of causality is problematic in this setting due to multiple self-selection issues. Firms self-select into providing non-GAAP performance metrics, and they also decide the timing of these disclosures strategically. Furthermore, short sellers carefully select the stocks they want to short. We exploit a randomized natural experiment—the SEC’s Regulation SHO—as an exogenous shock to mitigate endogeneity concerns and investigate the causal effect of short selling on the proliferation of aggressive non-GAAP reporting. The specific starting and ending dates of Regulation SHO allow us to conduct two separate difference-in-differences (DiD) tests. Our double DiD analyses indicate that the threat of increased short selling prompted by Regulation SHO significantly curbs managers’ aggressive non-GAAP earnings disclosures. However, the regulation does not affect non-GAAP exclusions that are presumed to be nonstrategic and informative. We find that short sellers’ disciplining effect is stronger when the pre-disclosure information environment is relatively impoverished and corporate governance is weak. Our results are robust to extensive sensitivity testing. Overall, we find strong evidence that the threat of increased short selling constrains aggressive non-GAAP reporting.
Distributed Broadcast Protocol with Collision Avoidance in Cognitive Radio Ad Hoc Networks

In this chapter, we introduce the proposed broadcast protocol for multi-hop CR ad hoc networks, BRACER. There are three components of the proposed BRACER protocol: (1) the construction of the broadcasting sequences; (2) the distributed broadcast scheduling scheme; and (3) the broadcast collision avoidance scheme. We assume that a time-slotted system is adopted for SUs, where the length of a time slot is long enough to transmit a broadcast packet [1]. In addition, we assume that the locations of SUs are static. We also assume that each SU knows the locations of its all 2-hop neighbors. We claim that this is a more valid assumption than the knowledge of global network topology. We provide a detailed discussion on this issue in Chapter 3.3. In the rest of the book, we use the term “sender” to indicate a SU who has just received a message and will rebroadcast the message. In addition, we use the term “receiver” to indicate a SU who has not received the message. The notations used in our protocol design are listed in Table 3.1.
Imagining a Theory of Everything for Adaptive Systems

By worldview, I mean the conceptual framework, beliefs, and values used to make sense of reality. Well-developed worldviews incorporate a cosmology that answers questions like “How did I get here?” or a more teleological “Why am I here?” To aid analysis and guide worldview development, I have formulated 80 worldview themes (Cook, 2009). To illustrate their use, I interpret something physicist Leonard Susskind wrote, “Modern cosmology really began with Darwin and Wallace…they provided explanations of our existence that completely rejected supernatural agents” (Susskind, 2006). My interpretation from a “secular humanism” and “scientific materialism” perspective, these men used the “scientific method” in developing their “global vision.” In telling a story, they did so without building it around God, the Creator, and Father, that is, without “monotheism” and “belief in a personal God.” They shunned use of “vitalism,” “mysticism,” “magic,” and “religious fundamentalism.”
Object‐Oriented Measurement of Software

The 1990s saw an insurgence in the use of object-oriented (OO) technologies. Along with this shift has been an increase in the demand for metrics to aid in evaluating the processes and the products associated with these new technologies. OO measurement focuses primarily on those metrics that have been specifically developed to be used with OO technologies and products. Many traditional metrics are paradigm neutral and, therefore, can still be used in the OO paradigm to answer certain kinds of questions. As a trivial example, lines of code is as valid a size metric in the OO paradigm on which to base an estimate of the amount of paper needed to print out a software package as it is in the procedural paradigm. New language constructs, however, imply significant differences in OO program structure. Thus, metrics specifically developed for OO technologies are often required. In particular, measurements associated with classes and class structure take on significant importance in OO products. For example, measurements of reuse via class inheritance are not found in traditional procedural paradigm metric sets. Besides the change in language constructs, the OO development process frequently differs from traditional processes in several ways. Much greater emphasis is often placed on more formal documentation during the early phases of development, such as the use of UML (Unified Modeling Language); and a clearer, more direct component to component relationship can be seen across the artifacts of the system through requirements, design, coding, and testing. This increase in visibility at the earlier phases of development has resulted in a greater desire for and emphasis on metrics for measuring the products of the early phases, particularly OO requirements and design. Keywords: history; measurement; metrics; current status
Chronic growth retardation with normal growth hormone response to provocative stimuli and low somatomedin activity: long-term therapy with human growth hormone

Four prepubertal children with chronic growth retardation (growth velocities less than or equal to 4 cm/yr), normal growth hormone (GH) response to provocative stimuli and low basal but increased somatomedin activity values after GH administration, received continuous GH-therapy (4 IU/three times a week) for an 18-24-month period. Growth velocity doubled during the first 12 months of therapy and remained 4-6 cm/yr until the end. Bone age progressed according to chronological age and adult height predictions improved. No thyroid function or carbohydrate and lipid metabolism anomalies were observed. After completion of this GH-therapy period, patients remained off treatment during the following six months. Growth velocities were similar to pre-GH-treatment values in two patients, lower in the third and higher in the fourth, who was by then pubertal. Thus, in these patients, long-term GH-therapy promoted growth and improved adult height prediction.
Costs and outcomes of community services for people with intellectual disabilities

This book brings together national experts and leading researchers to discuss the economics and outcomes of community services for people with intellectual disability. The work examines a wide scope of issues, including total U.S. national expenditures, the relation between inputs and outcomes, public policy considerations, and the impact of institutional downsizing. Contributors come from the U.S.A., the U.K., and Australia, and include recognized evaluation experts and policy analysts, as well as key policy and administrative personnel.
Is Shallow Water a Suitable Surrogate for Assessing Efforts to Address Pallid Sturgeon Population Declines

It is hypothesized that slow, shallow water habitats benefit larval pallid sturgeon Scaphirhynchus albus; however, testing this hypothesis is difficult, given the low number of larval pallid sturgeon present in large rivers. In contrast, relatively large numbers of age-0 shovelnose sturgeon Scaphirhynchus platorynchus have been sampled, providing a potentially useful baseline to assess the importance of slow, shallow water to age-0 sturgeon of both species (hereafter age-0 sturgeon) in the lower Missouri River. Thus, we investigated the potential relationships between the prevalence of shallow water 1.5 m, and catch rates were usually highest in the upper half [i.e. river kilometre (RKM) 400 to 800] of the lower Missouri River study area, whereas the availability of water <1.5 m was usually highest in the lower half (i.e. RKM 0 to 400). Similarly, there was no relationship between age-0 sturgeon mean catch-per-unit effort and ha/km of water <1.5 m at any studied scale. Our results may suggest that shallow water, as currently defined, may not be a suitable surrogate for assessing efforts to address pallid sturgeon population declines. However, it is still unknown if lack of appropriate habitat is currently limiting pallid sturgeon. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. River Research and Applications published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
The Pathogenesis of Psychogenic Erectile Dysfunction

The age-old problem of psychogenic impotence is now understood to comprise a mixture of cases involving desire and arousal difficulties. This paper presents a psychodynamic model for conceptualizing the pathogenesis of arousal problems that involves the resonation of forces that derive from 3 spheres of causality: (1) performance anxiety, (2) antecedent life changes, and (3) developmental vulnerabilities. The most prevalent forms of psychogenic impotence occur after a prolonged period of secure potency and come about after contributions from each sphere. Lifelong psychogenic impotence is produced primarily by developmental vulnerabilities, although performance anxiety often predominates. Focused psychotherapy based on these concepts of pathogenesis is discussed.
ENROLLING IN DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION RESEARCH FOR DEPRESSION: INFLUENCES ON POTENTIAL SUBJECTS' DECISION MAKING

Background Ethical concerns regarding early-phase clinical trials of DBS for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) include the possibility that participants' decisions to enroll might be motivated by unrealistic expectations of personal benefit or minimization of risks. Methods Thematic analyses were conducted on a sample of 26 adults considering participation in two DBS trials. Influences on the decision making of these potential DBS trial participants were derived from responses to questions posed in the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Clinical Research (MacCAT-CR), a semi-structured interview designed to evaluate decisional capacity to consent to research. Results Participants cited numerous factors as influential in their enrollment decisions, including perceived lack of other treatment options, desire to take initiative, beliefs about DBS as a novel treatment, possibility of DBS efficacy, hoped-for improvements, potential risks and disadvantages of DBS or clinical trial participation, and altruism. No individual expressed a set of motivations or influencing factors that suggested compromised decision-making capacity or diminished voluntariness of decision making. Conclusions These results suggest that individuals make the decision to enroll in early-phase trials of DBS for TRD based on a number of complex and sometimes idiosyncratic considerations, and that the trials that were studied utilized sufficiently robust informed consent processes. These findings offer evidence that the emerging research area of DBS can be advanced in an ethically sound manner, provided that safeguards and processes for discussing trials with participants are carefully and proactively enacted.
On the mechanism of erythropoietin-induced differentiation. I. The effects of specific inhibitors on hemoglobin synthesis.

Abstract 1. 1. The effect of erythropoietin on the stimulation of hemoglobin synthesis by marrow cells is counteracted by actinomycin D, if the inhibitor is added before the hormone or shortly after. 2. 2. After 24 h of contact with erythropoietin, marrow cell hemoglobin synthesis is resistant to the effect of actinomycin D. 3. 3. Stimulated hemoglobin synthesis is largely, but not completely inhibited, by colchicine. 4. 4. These findings are discussed with reference to the mechanism of action of erythropoietin and its possible role as a de-repressor in the induction of erythroid differentiation.
Robot paintings evolved using simulated robots

We describe our efforts to evolve robot paintings using simulated robots. Our evolutionary framework considers only the initial positions and initial directions of the simulated robots. Our fitness functions depend on the global properties of the resulting robot paintings and on the behavior of the simulated robots that occurs while making the paintings. Our evolutionary framework therefore implements an optimization algorithm that can be used to try and help identify robot paintings with desirable aesthetic properties. The goal of this work is to better understand how art making by a collection of autonomous cooperating robots might occur in such a way that the robots themselves are able to participate in the evaluation of their creative efforts.
Survey of branch prediction schemes for pipelined processors

Branch prediction schemes have become an integral part of today's pipelined processors. They are one of the key issues in enhancing the performance of pipelined processors. Pipeline stalls due to conditional branches are one of the most significant impediments to realizing the performance potential of deeply pipelined and superscalar processors. Many schemes for branch prediction, that can effectively and accurately predict the outcome of branch instructions have been proposed. In this paper, a survey of several branch prediction schemes for pipelined processors i.e., simple pipelined, deeply pipelined, and superscalar processors are presented. The pros and cons of each scheme are also discussed.
Rock magnetic properties of dendrites: insights from MFM imaging and implications for paleomagnetic studies

[1] Dendrites are crystals that grow in branches that diverge along crystallographically defined directions. Despite the importance of dendrites in paleomagnetic research, little is known about how dendrites act as magnetic recorders, because they exhibit complicated magnetic domain structures. In this study, we experimentally examine how textures and sizes of dendrites affect their magnetic domain structure and magnetic properties. We study two basaltic glass samples and three synthetic slag samples, which collectively define a wide range of dendritic morphologies. We use electron microscopy to characterize the morphology of the dendrites and magnetic force microscopy (MFM) to observe their magnetic domain structure. We characterize the dendrites’ bulk properties by firs-order reversal curve distributions, Thellier-style paleointensity experiments, anisotropy of remanence, and anisotropy of susceptibility. The samples with the thinnest dendrites have high coercivity, stable single-domain (SD) – pseudo single-domain magnetization, and yield ideal Arai plots. By contrast, the sample with the thickest dendrites has the lowest coercivity and shows the most extreme multidomain (MD) behavior. All samples except one, exhibit significant remanence and susceptibility anisotropy. MFM observations show that dendrites built from branches of interconnected octahedra, typical for basaltic glass, have a stable, high coercivity, SD-like magnetization despite the fact that their overall dimensions exceed the SD-MD threshold. Their stability is likely due to interactions between the octahedra and their narrow rod-like interconnections. Dendrites that crystallize in faster cooling environments, such as in archaeological slag, display finer branch thicknesses (<1 µm) and few, if any, octahedra. The tips of these dendrites consist of closely intergrown, rounded, acicular branches that behave as pseudo single-domain grains due to interactions between the branches. The largest, thickest dendrites show MD behavior and MFM images show their magnetic domain walls to be arranged in crystallographically controlled, geometrically repetitive patterns within elongated branches, which give rise to their anisotropy characteristics.
Self-replicating objects for multicore platforms

The paper introduces Self-Replicating Objects (SROs), a new concurrent programming abstraction. An SRO is implemented and used much like an ordinary .NET object and can expose arbitrary user-defined APIs, but it is aggressive about automatically exploiting multicore CPUs. It does so by spontaneously and transparently partitioning its state into a set of replicas that handle method calls in parallel and automatically merging replicas before processing calls that cannot execute in the replicated state. Developers need not be concerned about protecting access to shared data; each replica is a monitor and has its own state. The runtime ensures proper synchronization, scheduling, decides when to split/merge, and can transparently migrate replicas to other processes to decrease contention. Compared to threads/locks or toolkits such as .NET Parallel Extensions, SROs offer a simpler, more versatile programming model while delivering comparable, and in some cases even higher performance.
Implementation and Evaluation of Diabetes Management via Clinical Video Telehealth

“Telehealth” is a delivery of health-related services and information via telecommunications technologies. Clinical video telehealth (CVT) is a form of telehealth using a real-time video and audio transmission that is used to virtually connect a health care professional and a patient. CVT links the patient at a clinic closer to his or her home to a provider at another location. The goal of telehealth is to improve clinical outcomes and access to care while reducing costs, time, and risks with traveling to the main medical center. Typical patients are veterans in postacute care settings and high-risk patients with chronic disease states (1). We implemented a CVT pharmacotherapy clinic for patients with diabetes at the West Palm Beach Veterans Affairs Medical …
A Framework for Genetic Logic Synthesis

Digital electronic circuits have inspired synthetic biologists to program living cells with synthetic decision-making circuits by creating multilevel genetic logic gates. In both genetic and electronic circuits, logic synthesis translates an abstract functional description into a representation that can be physically implemented. However, inherent differences in genetic logic devices present new synthesis challenges. Here we provide a starting point for a growing set of biodesign automation tools to tackle this challenge in a unified way. This framework will enable direct comparison of new approaches, results that are transferable and standardized, and research into independent areas of the problem formulation with a clear path toward future integration.
Axial ligand complexes of the Rhodnius nitrophorins: reduction potentials, binding constants, EPR spectra, and structures of the 4-iodopyrazole and imidazole complexes of NP4

Previously, we utilized 4-iodopyrazole (4IPzH) as a heavy atom derivative for the initial solution of the crystal structure of the nitrophorin from Rhodnius prolixus, NP1, where it was found to bind to the heme with the iodo group disordered in two positions. We have now determined the structure of the 4IPzH complex of NP4 at pH 7.5 and find that the geometry and bond lengths at the iron center are extremely similar to those of the imidazole (ImH) complex of the same protein (structure determined at pH 5.6), except that the G–H loop is not in the closed conformation. 4IPzH binds to the heme of NP4 in an ordered manner, with the iodo substituent pointed toward the opening of the heme pocket, near the surface of the protein. In order to understand the solution chemistry in terms of the relative binding abilities of 4IPzH, ImH, and histamine (Hm, a physiological ligand for the nitrophorins), we have also investigated the equilibrium binding constants and reduction potentials of these three ligand complexes of the four Rhodnius nitrophorins as a function of pH. We have found that, unlike the other Lewis bases, 4IPzH forms less stable complexes with the Fe(III) than the Fe(II) oxidation states of NP1 and NP4, and similar stability for the two oxidation states of NP2 and NP3, suggesting that this ligand is a softer base than ImH or Hm, for both of which the Fe(III) complexes are more stable than those of Fe(II) for all four nitrophorins. Surprisingly, in spite of this and the much lower basicity of 4IPzH than imidazole and histamine, the EPR g-values of all three ligand complexes are very similar.
Challenging Stereotypes of Eating and Body Image Concerns Among College Students: Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment of Diverse Populations

The authors describe a study that was conducted to provide better understanding of eating and body image concerns among clients in university counseling centers. First, they explored the prevalence of such concerns among stereotype-congruent (White, heterosexual, female) and stereotype-incongruent groups (e.g., ethnic/sexual minorities, men). Then, because some groups may use compensatory behaviors not adequately captured by current definitions of eating disorders, they specifically examined body image disturbance among these groups.
A familial syndrome of isolated “aplasia” of the anterior pituitary: Diagnostic studies and treatment in the neonatal period

A male newborn infant developed hypoglycemia, collapsed, and convulsed at eight hours of age. The diagnosis of pituitary "aplasia" was suspected, because of a previously affected female sibling, and treatment with glucocorticoids was instituted. Diagnostic studies revealed a deficiency of thyrotropin, growth hormone, and prolactin. He is now six months of age and is thriving on replacement therapy. Analysis of previous reports of this entity indicates that isolated "aplasia" of the anterior pituitary is a genetic syndrome with an autosomal recessive mode of transmission. The course in this patient suggests that this disorder, if diagnosed, is amenable to therapy.
Novel approaches using alkaline or acid/guanidine treatment to eliminate therapeutic antibody interference in the measurement of total target ligand

Abstract Measurement of the total target ligand can help to provide pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) informations. However, the presence of monocloncal antibody therapeutics (ThAs) interferes with ELISA determinations of the total target proteins. The interferences can cause over- or under-estimation of the target protein analysis. The nature of interferences was dependent upon the ThA, target protein, antibody reagents and assay conditions of the ELISA. We have developed novel alkaline and acid/guanidine treatment approaches to dissociate the protein binding and preferentially denature the ThA. The neutralized target proteins can be determined by ELISA. These methods provide reproducible measurements of total target protein without ThA interference. Serum samples, standards and QCs containing target protein and ThA were treated with alkaline buffer (pH > 13) containing casein or acid/guanidine buffer (pH
Why insecticides are more toxic to insects than people: The unique toxicology of insects

The unique toxicology of insects provides the safety mechanisms for the major insecticides. The selectivity of insecticidal nerve poisons is attributable to structural differences in binding subsites (acetylcholinesterase and nicotinic receptor) or receptor subunit interfaces (gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor) or transmembrane regions (voltage-sensitive sodium channel) supplemented by metabolic activation and detoxification. Slow action limits the use of the remarkably selective insecticides acting at juvenile hormone and ecdysone receptors and inhibiting chitin biosynthesis. The delta-endotoxin of Bacillus thuringiensis induces midgut lysis and death in insects by a mechanism not applicable in mammals. Future pest management will rely on continuing advances in insect toxicology.
The Determination of Nitrogen in Austenitic Steels Using a Cyanogen Band Head

Commercial production of heat and corrosion resistant steels containing specified quantities of nitrogen necessitate the development of rapid analytical control procedures. In particular, Cr-Mn-Mo steels having nitrogen concentrations of approximately 0.5 percent are proving to be valuable replacements for conventional alloys of high nickel content (1). The critical supply and cost of nickel has focussed attention upon less strategic materials.
Magnetoelectrochemistry of Nitrothiophenolate-Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles

The electrochemical behaviors of n-decanethiolate-protected gold (C10Au) nanoparticles that had been exchanged with p-nitrothiophenolate (NTP) ligands at varied feed ratios were investigated in an external magnetic field (0−0.5 T). It was found that the NTP voltammetric currents are dependent on the electrode orientation and the intensity of the magnetic field. When the concentration of NTP in the particle is low (e.g., 10 or 30% exchange ratio), the currents at angles of 0 and 180° are greater than those at 90 and 270°. However, when the initial feed ratio is increased to 50%, the currents at angles of 0 and 180° are smaller than those at 90 and 270°. While these observed phenomena are ascribed to the magnetic field effects on nanoparticle mass transfer, their mechanistic origins are different. The former is attributable to the field-enhanced magnetoconvection due to the formation of an interfacial gradient of magnetic susceptibility (concentration), and the latter arises from magnetohydrodynamic interac...
Spatial pattern in aerosol insecticide deposition inside a flour mill.

ABSTRACT Aerosol insecticides are commonly used for management of stored-product pests inside food facilities, but the physical complexity of the interior of most food facilities may influence the dispersal and deposition of droplets and create spatial variation in dosage. The spatial pattern in aerosol deposition was evaluated inside a flour mill using a high density grid of bioassay insects. Three insecticides, Aero tech with NyGuard and Pyrocide 100 + Diacon II, both pyrethrin and insect growth regulator combinations, and Vap20, an organophosphate, were evaluated at normal (27°C) and high (40°C) target temperatures. Using a newly developed efficacy index, there was spatial pattern to aerosol deposition detected for the pyrethrin insecticides and the pattern differed between aerosols and temperatures. Walls and corners, especially behind the direction of application, were especially vulnerable to zones of lower efficacy, and open areas in center of the room tended to have the highest efficacy. The organ...