cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The lack of meaningful association between depression severity measures and neurocognitive performance.

Abstract Background Neurocognitive deficits are common in depression, but most prior studies have not found strong associations between standard measures of symptom severity and the extent of these neurocognitive deficits. Diagnostic heterogeneity, or the lack of specific questions about neurocognition in these measures, may be undermining these associations. Method Neuropsychological performance was assessed via 10 tasks in a sample of 262 unmedicated patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and compared to that in healthy volunteers (n = 140), then correlated with (1) standard measures of depression severity including the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Beck Depression Inventory, (2) previously established, factor-analytically derived symptom factors that characterize the heterogeneity of these scales, and (3) a separate measure of cognitive complaint (Cognitive Failures Questionnaire) that was included to address the absence of specific questions about cognition in standard rating scales. Results Neurocognitive performance in these unmedicated MDD patients was not significantly associated with either total scores on the depression severity measures, any of their derived symptom factors, or the degree of subjective cognitive complaint – which itself was most strongly associated with mood disturbance. Limitations Depressed patients with the most prominent neurovegetative symptoms may be underrepresented in this sample. Conclusions Neurocognitive deficits were only weakly associated with standard depression symptom ratings, and not captured by self-report ratings of cognitive complaint. Neurocognitive deficits appear to be a separate symptom dimension that cannot be inferred from overall depression severity and require their own assessment, given that they have prognostic value for functional outcomes, suicide risk, and differential therapeutics.
BROOM: An Open-Source Out-of-Order Processor With Resilient Low-Voltage Operation in 28-nm CMOS

The Berkeley resilient out-of-order machine (BROOM) is a resilient, wide-voltage-range implementation of an open-source out-of-order (OoO) RISC-V processor implemented in an ASIC flow. A 28-nm test-chip contains a BOOM OoO core and a 1-MiB level-2 (L2) cache, enhanced with architectural error tolerance for low-voltage operation. It was implemented by using an agile design methodology, where the initial OoO architecture was transformed to perform well in a high-performance, low-leakage CMOS process, informed by synthesis, place, and route data by using foundry-provided standard-cell library and memory compiler. The two-person-team productivity was improved in part thanks to a number of open-source artifacts: The Chisel hardware construction language, the RISC-V instruction set architecture, the rocket-chip SoC generator, and the open-source BOOM core. The resulting chip, taped out using TSMC’s 28-nm HPM process, runs at 1.0 GHz at 0.9 V, and is able to operate down to 0.47 V.
Transition to Nursing Practice: A Capstone Simulation for the Application of Leadership Skills in Nursing Practice

Abstract A large-scale capstone simulation was implemented to fully immerse nursing students into the authentic role of the professional nurse by giving them the autonomy to independently manage the care of multiple complex patients with competing priorities in a realistic hospital environment. This innovative learning experience gave students an opportunity to transfer theory into practice. Overwhelmingly positive feedback from students supports the implementation of a capstone simulation to promote a smoother transition into the nursing workforce.
Evaluating new evidence in the early dynamics of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan, China with real time domestic traffic and potential asymptomatic transmissions

Abstract The novel coronavirus (COVID-19), first detected in Wuhan, China in December 2019, has spread to 28 countries/regions with over 43,000 confirmed cases. Much about this outbreak is still unknown. At this early stage of the epidemic, it is important to investigate alternative sources of information to understand its dynamics and spread. With updated real time domestic traffic, this study aims to integrate recent evidence of international evacuees extracted from Wuhan between Jan. 29 and Feb. 2, 2020 to infer the dynamics of the COVD-19 outbreak in Wuhan. In addition, a modified SEIR model was used to evaluate the empirical support for the presence of asymptomatic transmissions. Based on the data examined, this study found little evidence for the presence of asymptomatic transmissions. However, it is still too early to rule out its presence conclusively due to sample size and other limitations. The updated basic reproductive number was found to be 2.12 on average with a 95% credible interval of [2.04, 2.18]. It is smaller than previous estimates probably because the new estimate factors in the social and non-pharmaceutical mitigation implemented in Wuhan through the evacuee dataset. Detailed predictions of infected individuals exported both domestically and internationally were produced. The estimated case confirmation rate has been low but has increased steadily to 23.37% on average. The findings of this study depend on the validity of the underlying assumptions, and continuing work is needed, especially in monitoring the current infection status of Wuhan residents.
Medical and Surgical Management of Genital Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause debilitating sexual and urinary sequelae in men and women. In this review, we discuss the etiology, clinical presentation, and management options for genital LS. While medical and surgical management of LS has remained similar for quite some time, techniques such as the Kulkarni urethroplasty have made one stage reconstruction for panurethral LS strictures more feasible. Perineal urethrostomy has become an increasingly preferred treatment modality for complex LS patients. Current LS research has focused on the pathophysiology of the LS at the protein level and possible targets for treatment. While exact etiology of LS remains unknown, many theories have been hypothesized. The mainstay of medical treatment includes topical steroids. Various reconstructive techniques may be used depending on patient symptoms, extent of involvement, and the location of disease. Non-genital skin grafts, such as buccal mucosa, are recommended in LS patients requiring grafting for urethral reconstruction. Genital skin flaps are not recommended, as they have a high failure rate in this setting. Long-term follow-up is recommended, as LS can be associated with the development of squamous cell carcinoma.
Parents accurately perceive problematic eating behaviors but overestimate physical activity levels in preschool children

The aim of this study is to examine the associations between parents’ perceptions of their child’s physical activity and eating behaviors to actual physical activity, body mass index percentage (BMI%), and body fat percentage (BF%). A secondary aim is to examine additional parental determinants to child’s physical activity. Participants were preschool children (N = 114, 59 females, Mage= 4.06) from three University-sponsored centers and parents (N = 114, 107 mothers). Parents self-reported physical activity, perceptions of child’s physical activity, and completed “The Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire”. Children physical activity was collected with accelerometers. Whereas 97% of the 68 parents with children meeting physical activity guidelines accurately identified their child as active, 93% of the 14 parents with children not meeting physical activity guidelines inaccurately identified their child as active (X2(1, N = 82) = 0.58, p = 0.446)). Regarding eating behaviors, child BMI% was moderately correlated with parent’s perceptions of their child’s Emotional Overeating (r(74) = 0.416, p < 0.001) and Food Responsiveness (r(74) = 0.543, p < 0.001). Parent’s engagement in vigorous physical activity demonstrated a positive relationship to child’s physical activity (r(78) = 0.297, p = 0.008). Parents of inactive children have inaccurate perceptions of their child’s physical activity. The association between children’s BMI% and eating behaviors indicates parents can accurately perceive problematic eating behaviors. Parents, who accurately perceive their child’s behaviors, may be in a better position to identify deficiency and seek early intervention. Additionally, parent’s physical activity may have implications to children’s physical activity. Level V: Descriptive cross-sectional study.
Developing an Applied Biostatistical Sciences (ABS) network

Introduction: Access to qualified biostatisticians to provide input on research design and statistical considerations is critical for high-quality clinical and translational research. At diverse health science institutions, like the University of Michigan (U-M), biostatistical collaborators are scattered across the campus. This model can isolate applied statisticians, analysts, and epidemiologists from each other, which may negatively affect their career development and job satisfaction, and inhibits access to optimal biostatistical support for researchers. Furthermore, in the era of modern, complex translational research, it is imperative to elevate biostatistical expertise by offering innovative training. Methods: The Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research established an Applied Biostatistical Sciences (ABS) network that is a campus-wide community of staff and faculty statisticians, epidemiologists, data scientists, and researchers, with the intention of supporting both researchers and biostatisticians, while promoting high-quality clinical and translational research. Results: Since its inception in early 2018, the ABS Network has grown to several hundred faculty and staff members across a range of health and research disciplines. The ABS Network offers free trainings on innovative methods and tools in the biostatistical field, a web-based portal with resources and training lectures, and connections to U-M faculty and/or staff members for consultation and collaboration. Conclusions: Although challenging, if approached strategically, the creation of a collaboration network of biostatisticians can be accomplished. Furthermore, the process can be adopted and implemented for establishing collaboration with any network of professionals with common interests across different disciplines and professional fields regardless of size.
Multisystem assessment of the imaging manifestations of coagulopathy in hospitalized patients with COVID-19.

Please see the Editorial Comment by Anil K. Dasyam discussing this article. BACKGROUND. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is known to be associated with a distinct form of coagulopathy. OBJECTIVE. The...
76 Granular cell tumor, a rare breast tumor

Introduction Granular cell tumors involving the breast parenchyma are very uncommon, accounting for 5% to 8% of all granular cell tumors. They are benign neoplasms usually presenting clinically and radiologically as a mass indistinguishably from cancer, representing a big diagnostic challenge where histological evaluation becomes essential to differentiate between both. Case Report We report a case of a 46-year-old female with no relevant past medical clinical history, who underwent a routine mammogram revealing a 0.4 × 0.4 × 0.3 cm irregular mass in her left breast, concerning from malignancy. Histological examination and immunohistochemical studies proved this to be a granular cell tumor. The lesion was successfully excised, and patient recovered with no further major health implications. Conclusion Although this entity is infrequent, it should be taken in consideration as a differential diagnosis when confronting with a breast mass in a young patient. Pathological assessment is of utmost importance in order to establish an accurate diagnosis, especially preoperative, potentially sparing the patient from a more invasive surgical procedure that could have repercussions not only physically but also emotionally.
Chapter 24 Agent-based Computational Finance

Abstract This chapter surveys research on agent-based models used in finance. It will concentrate on models where the use of computational tools is critical for the process of crafting models which give insights into the importance and dynamics of investor heterogeneity in many financial settings.
Developing an Institutional Arrangement for a Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Community Approach to Regional Adaptation to Sea Level Rise: The Hampton Roads Pilot Project

Adaptation to sea level rise (SLR) requires coordination among local, state, and federal entities and collaboration across governments, nonprofits, businesses, and residents. This coordination and ...
Political community and the new parochialism: Brexit and the reimagination of British liberalism and conservatism

This article analyzes the evolution of discourses surrounding Brexit and interprets them in the context of broader shifts in the character of British liberal and conservative traditions since the 1990s. It argues that the evolution of debates about Britain’s place in Europe, the 2016 referendum, and its aftermath can be usefully understood using the analytical frames, derived from Tonnies and Weber, of Gemeinschaft, or “community,” and Gesellschaftt, or “society.” It suggests further that the discourses surrounding Brexit and prevailing interpretations of it have been shaped by exhumed and redeployed strands of British liberal and conservative thought and only partially successful attempts to fashion a new synthesis among them. It shows that supporters of Brexit have engaged in a strategy of “negative integration,” casting Britain as a territorially defensive nation defending itself against external “others” in ways that have been informed by these redeployed traditions. It concludes that these dynamics have resulted in and reflected a deeply fractured British society and have highlighted the prevalence of political amateurism in the British political class.
Sr and Co Vapor-Phase Transport from LSCF Cathodes

Strontium transport contributes to degradation mechanisms in SOFCs, especially strontium zirconate formation at the interface of the cathode barrier layer with the YSZ electrolyte. High temperatures required for cathode sintering lead to Sr transport during cell construction. SEM analysis of SOFCs with LSCF cathodes shows Sr at the YSZ/GDC barrier layer interface, but no Sr throughout the GDC barrier layer itself, as would be expected for solid-phase transport. Vapor-phase transport was identified as a possible mechanism that would lead to these observations. A series of tests were performed to differentiate between surface diffusion and vapor-phase diffusion of species from LSCF cathode material at typical sintering temperatures (up to 1100°C). A GDC substrate was printed with LSCF and separated by an air gap from a YSZ target substrate. First a simple spacer ring was used to create the air gap, and strontium transport was observed via SEM-EDS (energy dispersive spectroscopy). Then, various geometries with long surface paths were employed to reduce the possibility of surface transport. The target substrates were analyzed via x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) with high sensitivity for surface species. An open air gap did not show evidence of Sr or Co transport. A refined, enclosed air gap with long surface path length did show such evidence for Sr and Co, indicating an enclosed area to maintain significant vapor pressure was necessary for transport. An SOFC with LSCF in direct contact with a barrier layer would also provide such an environment for vapor-phase transport to occur. Furthermore, spatially resolved analysis showed a relatively uniform distribution of Sr and Co across the target substrate. This supports the vapor-phase mechanism as Sr and Co transported via surface diffusion would have been fixed preferentially to the outer edge of the target substrate. These results have implications for adjusting sintering conditions and barrier layer requirements to prevent the formation of undesired strontium zirconate. This work was performed for the US DOE Office of Fossil Energy's Solid Oxide Fuel Cell program under the Cathode Task.
Endoscopy Management of Complete Gastric Outlet Obstruction Secondary to Elipse™ Intragastric Balloon.

The Allurion Elipse™ device is a swallowable balloon in the form of a capsule placed without endoscopy that serves the same purpose as an intragastric balloon (IGB) used for weight loss. We report a case of a 43-year-old female who presented with a complete gastric outlet obstruction confirmed by computed tomography (CT) scan. The patient initially failed conservative management; therefore, the IGB was later removed endoscopically. This is a rare complication and one of the first cases described in the literature; therefore, further studies are needed before its widescale implementation.
Habermasian Criteria for Critical Literacy: An Example of Critical Text Analysis and Its Implications

This paper is concerned with the connection between Jurgen Habermas’s theory of communicative action and critical literacy. It proposes that Habermas’s criteria used to evaluate validity claims in communicative action can supplement what is lacking in critical literacy. An example of critical text analysis is presented to demonstrate how Habermas’s criteria can be used to evaluate validity claims in critical literacy. This paper ends with a discussion of the implications of Habermas’s criteria for reading assessment.
Human Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes Bear Markers for Thymosins (α1, α7, β4)

Within a partially purified calf thymic extract termed thymosin fraction 5 (Goldstein et al., 1972), there exist several active polypeptides with distinct immunobiological action (Trivers and Goldstein, 1980; Low and Goldstein, 1982). Among those, thymosin α1 affects the early stages of T-lymphocyte maturation and induces helper T cells; thymosin α7 affects the induction of suppressor T-cell development (Trivers and Goldstein, 1980); and thymosin β4 affects the maturation of prothymocytes and has a MIF-like activity (Low and Goldstein, 1982).
Book Review - The European Prescription for Ending the Death Penalty

The United States of America remains the only Western democracy that continues to use capital punishment. Europeans, particularly in the academic community, continue to express outrage and disbelief at its persistence, especially given America’s twentieth century role as the world leader in challenging abuses of human rights.This sociological question – why the United States retains the death penalty – has spawned a burgeoning academic literature. This literature has both deepened cultural understandings of the death penalty and raised questions concerning the degree to which (and in what ways) the United States is “exceptional” when compared to other Western democracies. What has been missing from these discussions is a thorough account of the abolition of the death penalty in European nations. Such an account helps to address a number of questions: whether culture plays a significant role in the abolition of capital punishment; whether the United States is exceptional in a way that explains the persistence of its death penalty; and whether the United States is mirroring the same trajectory of its European counterparts, albeit at a slower pace. At its heart, the entire academic discussion is subconsciously both predictive and prescriptive. In other words, explaining the persistence of the death penalty can both predict – will the United States ever abolish the death penalty? If so, how and when? – and prescribe – is there a way to advance the United States along the path to abolition, either by following the path of the Europeans, or following a new path that takes into account the cultural distinctiveness or other exceptional features of the United States?In his recent book, Ending the Death Penalty: the European Experience in Global Perspective, German law professor Andrew Hammel attempts to provide the missing piece to the conversation through a careful study of the death penalty’s demise in Europe. He focuses on three nations – Germany, Great Britain, and France – and provides a detailed, play-by-play analysis of the events that led to abolition of the death penalty in each country. In addition to the value of this history itself, Hammel attempts to situate these parallel developments in a broader context by linking them together to delineate the European “path to abolition.” Finally, Hammel tackles the meta question – why have these patterns not become manifest in the United States – and outlines his view of death penalty persistence in America.This book review first describes the conclusions reached by Hammel, as drawn from his compelling narrative of three parallel abolitions. The review then assesses Hammel’s arguments as to why the European model has seemingly had no impact in the United States. Finally, this review situates Hammel’s contributions within the broader debate, arguing that insights from the European experience can serve as a catalyst for death penalty abolition in the United States.
Multi-threaded Event Processing with JANA

The C++ reconstruction framework JANA has been written to support the next generation of Nuclear Physics experiments at Jefferson Lab in anticipation of the 12GeV upgrade. This includes the GlueX experiment in the planned 4th experimental hall "Hall-D". The JANA framework was designed to allow multi-threaded event processing with a minimal impact on developers of reconstruction software. As we enter the multi-core era, thread-enabled code will become essential to utilizing the full processor power available without invoking the logistical overhead of managing many individual processes. Event-based reconstruction lends itself naturally to mutli-threaded processing. Emphasis will be placed on the multi-threading features of the framework. Test results of the scaling of event processing rates with number of threads will be shown.
The sociology of global climate change

Sociological research on global climate change (GCC) can be found in several subfields, but it has primarily emerged within the theoretical and substantive domain of sociology of the environment. This review provides an overview of sociological literature on climate change and identifies key areas for further research and development. The review focuses on four broad areas: social causes, construction of the problem, relationship between GCC and social inequality, and social dimensions of mitigation and adaptation. WIREs Clim Change 2015, 6:129–150. doi: 10.1002/wcc.328 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website. Conflict of interest: The author has declared no conflicts of interest for this article.
The Myth of Sacred Prostitution in Antiquity

1. Introduction 2. The ancient Near Eastern data 3. The so-called 'evidence' 4. Herodotos 5. In the footsteps of Herodotos: Lucian and 'Jeremiah' 6. Pindar Fragment 122 7. Strabo, confused and misunderstood 8. Klearkhos, Justinus, and Valerius Maximus 9. Archaeological 'evidence' from Italy 10. The early Christian rhetoric 11. Last myths.
Iris Marion Young. Responsabilidad social y solidaridad

Iris Marion Young. Social Responsibility and Solidarity This article aims at supplementing Young's model of responsibility as social linkage with that of Justice as Solidarity. We move beyond a discussion of solidarity as a mere cosmo- politan and abstract concept. Solidarity applies somehow to a number of assistance net- works and transnational cooperation that have emerged to confront neoliberal, globalised aggressions to the poor, mostly to poor women challenging the feminization of poverty and survival. We resort to the the so-called Oppressions' Intersectionality to contextualize femi- nist Solidarity. Finally, we discuss the growing strength of Solidarity Economy to become the basis of global solidarity, specially after successful experiences in Latin America and various North-American initiatives concerning fair trade and transnational collaboration.
Fibrinogen catabolism in the surgically treated patient and in those with postoperative venous thrombosis. Correlation of plasma fibrinogen chromatographic findings with 125I-labeled fibrinogen scan findings.

Abstract Patients undergoing operation were examined serially by plasma fibrinogen chromatography, a technique for quantifying the relative proportions and amounts of high molecular weight fibrin(ogen) complexes (HMWFC), native fibrinogen, and derivatives of fibrinogen smaller than the parent molecule in plasma. Ninety-two patients were followed preoperatively and at 1 hour, 1 day, and 5 days postoperatively. All patients received 125 I-labeled fibrinogen following operation, and isotopic leg scanning was performed daily for the first 5 postoperative days. The plasma of clinically well subjects contained an average of 7.2% or 20.3 mg/100 ml of plasma "fibrinogen" in HMWFC form, and values exceeding mean +2 S.D. of normal, 20% or 88 mg/100 ml HMWFC, were classed as abnormal. Preoperatively, 58% of the patients exhibited normal plasma fibrinogen chromatographic findings, but 42% showed abnormal plasma fibrinogen chromatographic findings (>20% HMWFC), an incidence differing significantly (p
Novel micro electro mechanical systems (MEMS) packaging for the skin of the satellite

This paper includes a discussion of the novel packaging techniques that are needed to place MEMS based thermal control devices on the skin of various satellites, eliminating the concern associated with potential particulates from integration and test or the launch environment. Protection of this MEMS based thermal device is achieved using a novel polymer that is both IR transmissive and electrically conductive. This polymer was originally developed and qualified for space flight application by NASA at the Langley Research Center. The polymer material, commercially known as CP1, is coated with a thin layer of ITO and sandwiched between two window-like frames. The packaging of the MEMS based radiator assembly offers the benefits of micro-scale devices in a chip on board fashion, with the level of protection generally found in packaged parts.
Model Space Localization Is Not Always Better Than Observation Space Localization for Assimilation of Satellite Radiances

AbstractCovariance localization is an essential component of ensemble-based data assimilation systems for large geophysical applications with limited ensemble sizes. For integral observations like the satellite radiances, where the concepts of location or vertical distance are not well defined, vertical localization in observation space is not as straightforward as in model space. The detailed differences between model space and observation space localizations are examined using a real radiance observation. Counterintuitive analysis increments can be obtained with model space localization; the magnitude of the increment can increase and the increment can change sign when the localization scale decreases. This occurs when there are negative background-error covariances and a predominately positive forward operator. Too narrow model space localization can neglect the negative background-error covariances and result in the counterintuitive analysis increments. An idealized 1D model with integral observations...
Isolation and sequence analysis of dacB, which encodes a sporulation-specific penicillin-binding protein in Bacillus subtilis.

Abstract A novel penicillin-binding protein (PBP 5*) with D,D-carboxypeptidase activity is synthesized by Bacillus subtilis, beginning at about stage III of sporulation. The complete gene (dacB) for this protein was cloned by immunoscreening of an expression vector library and then sequenced. The identity of dacB was verified not only by the size and cross-reactivity of its product but also by the presence of the nucleotide sequence that coded for the independently determined NH2 terminus of PBP 5*. Analysis of its complete amino acid sequence confirmed the hypothesis that this PBP is related to other active-site serine D,D-peptidases involved in bacterial cell wall metabolism. PBP 5* had the active-site domains common to all PBPs, as well as a cleavable amino-terminal signal peptide and a carboxy-terminal membrane anchor that are typical features of low-molecular-weight PBPs. Mature PBP 5* was 355 amino acids long, and its mass was calculated to be 40,057 daltons. What is unique about this PBP is that it is developmentally regulated. Analysis of the sequence provided support for the hypothesis that the sporulation specificity and mother cell-specific expression of dacB can be attributed to recognition of the gene by a sporulation-specific sigma factor. There was a good match of the putative promoter of dacB with the sequence recognized by sigma factor E (sigma E), the subunit of RNA polymerase that is responsible for early mother cell-specific gene expression during sporulation. Analysis of PBP 5* production by various spo mutants also suggested that dacB expression is on a sigma E-dependent pathway.
A real-time goal-interaction free task planner

The authors describe a real-time task planning algorithm, PLANNER. The high planning speed achieved in PLANNER is due to three techniques adopted in the planner. First, priority numbers are assigned to each literal of the conjunctive goals and each literal of the preconditions of the robot operations; the priority assignment is combined with a depth first search technique to make the goal-interaction problem vanish in task planning. Second, binary numbers are used to represent facts and robot operations, which greatly increases the speed of operation searching. Third, simple hardware circuits are used to match a subgoal to all operations and facts in a parallel fashion. The total speed gain of PLANNER over the traditional task planner is the product of the speed gains of these three techniques. PLANNER can be used for a fairly large subset of conjunctive problems that have priority among its subproblems. >
Risk Attitudes and Political Participation

This article contributes to existing explanations of political participation by proposing that citizens’ attitudes towards risk predict participation. I argue that people who are risk accepting participate in political life because politics offers novelty and excitement. Analyses of two independent Internet surveys establish a positive, significant relationship between risk attitudes and general political participation. The analyses also suggest that the relationship between risk attitudes and action varies with the political act: people who are more risk accepting are more likely to participate in general political acts, but they are no more or less likely to turn out in elections. Further analyses suggest that two key mechanisms—novelty seeking and excitement seeking—underlie the relationship between risk attitudes and political participation.
Casting of diffusion‐controlled free radical polymerization—experimental and theoretical analysis

This paper is concerned with applications of a kinetic-diffusion model which accounts for the gel effect and glass effect for free radical polymerizations under nonisothermal conditions. Bulk polymerizations of styrene and unsaturated polyester in the batch casting process were investigated both experimentally and theoretically. A differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) were employed to elucidate incomplete reactions resulting from glass transition and dead-ending phenomena and to provide kinetic information for modelling. Temperature, conversion, and cumulative molecular weight profiles were simulated under several wall temperature programs. Predictions of ultimate cumulative molecular weights across the reactor, when compared with experimental results measured by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), affirmed that the molecular weight variation due to the radial temperature gradient could be alleviated by manipulating the wall temperature.
Block copolymers as low-VOC coatings for wood: characterization and tannin bleed resistance

Replacement of solvent-borne primers with low-VOC water-based coatings has created the problem of tannin bleed for cedar siding finishers. Three amphiphilic block copolymers, poly(styrene-b-acrylic acid) (PS-PAA), poly(styrene-b-ethylene oxide) (PS-PEO), and poly(styrene-b-methacrylic acid) (PS-PMAA), were investigated as potential water-based coating components that could create a hydrophobic barrier to block tannin extraction. Resistance to extractive bleed was determined by measuring topcoat color change under ambient and humid exposure of coated wood panels. Contact angles of water on the copolymer-coated surfaces were measured to reveal the relative hydrophobicity of the coating surface. Adhesion characteristics of the experimental coatings on wood substrates were determined with a standard tape test. The block copolymer coatings were found to have less darkening and yellowing of the topcoat than the unprimed control and commercial oil-based primer. They also exhibited bleed resistance similar to that of a commercial water-soluble tannin-blocking polymer, but did not perform as well as a commercial water-based tannin-blocking coating. Most copolymers had contact angles close to or greater than 90°, indicating hydrophobic surfaces, with four coatings exhibiting surfaces as hydrophobic as a commercial oil-based primer. Adhesion of the copolymer coatings was found to be adequate under ambient conditions but poor for substrates exposed to humidity. Thus, the amphiphilic block copolymers appear to be potential waterborne tannin-blocking agents with other properties suitable for wood coatings.
Cytochrome P450 Compound I

Cytochrome P450 enzymes (P450s) comprise a large class of enzymes that effect numerous oxidations in nature. The active oxidants in P450s are thought to be iron(IV)−oxo porphyrin radical cations termed Compounds I, and these intermediates have been sought since the discovery of P450s 40 years ago. We report formation of the Compound I derivative of a P450 enzyme by laser flash photolysis oxidation of the corresponding Compound II species, an iron(IV)−oxo neutral porphyrin intermediate. The Compound II derivative in turn was produced by oxidation of the P450 with peroxynitrite, which effected a net one-electron, oxo-transfer reaction to the iron(III) atom of the resting enzyme. For the P450 studied in this work, CYP119 from the thermophile Sulfolobus solfactaricus, the P450 Compound II derivative was stable for seconds at ambient temperature, and the Compound I transient decayed with a lifetime of ca. 200 ms.
Effects of cations on ouabain binding by intact human erythrocytes.

The present studies demonstrate that extracellular cations alter ouabain binding by intact human erythrocytes and that this alteration reflects a change in the apparent affinity but not the capacity for ouabain binding. Monovalent cations exert their effect at a single site (the “monovalent cation site”) and each monovalent cation can inhibit competitively the effect of other monovalent cations. Sodium, lithium, and cesium increase while potassium and rubidium decrease the apparent affinity with which ouabain is bound. Divalent cations exert their effect at a single site (the “divalent cation site”) which is functionally distinct from the site at which monovalent cations act and show mutual competitive inhibition. Each divalent cation studied increases the apparent affinity with which oubain binds to the erythrocyte membrane. Magnesium and calcium, but not barium, can also alter the effect of monovalent cations on ouabain binding. To interpret our findings we have proposed that the erythrocyte membrane has a “receptor complex” composed of a monovalent cation site, a divalent cation site and a glycoside-binding site. The number and type of cations occupying the cation sites determine the affinity of the glycoside-binding site for ouabain.
A comparison of the Bricker versus Wallace ureteroileal anastomosis in patients undergoing urinary diversion for bladder cancer.

Purpose: In recent years few studies have evaluated the success and complications of the 2 most common types of ureteroenteric anastomotic techniques, the Bricker and the Wallace anastomosis. We evaluated the complications of the Bricker and Wallace techniques of ureteroenteric anastomosis in a single surgeon, single institution series.Materials and Methods: From 2001 to 2005 a total of 186 patients underwent ileal conduit or ileal neobladder after cystectomy for bladder cancer. All patients were followed for a minimum of 12 months after surgery with complete clinical information. In all cases the ureters were anastomosed to a segment of ileum in a separate (Bricker) or conjoined (Wallace) fashion.Results: Of the 186 patients 94 underwent a Bricker (51%), 90 underwent a Wallace (48%) and 2 patients underwent both procedures (Wallace on duplicated system on 1 side, Bricker on contralateral side). Ureteral stricture developed in 5 of 186 (2.6%) patients and the overall stricture rate for all ureters was 7 o...
Bad Business? A Reexamination of Television's Portrayal of Businesspersons

In 1981 the Media Institute published an analysis of television characters in business occupations. Its fundamental finding was that these characters are typically shown perpetrating various sorts of evil behavior and that this behavior tends to paint a negative picture of American business and the capitalist system. This article challenges that assertion through a new content analysis and reexamination of the original Media Institute data. Analysis of the role of social class in portrayals of television characters shows that television stigmatizes wealth, not business.
The effects of in vitro incubation with acetylsalicylic acid on thrombocyte aggregation in whole blood from normal ostriches

Avian thrombocytes are circulating nucleated blood cells which play an active role in both haemostasis and phagocytosis. To better define their role in haemostasis, thrombocyte aggregation was measured in whole blood from healthy adult ostriches using an electrical impedance aggregometer. Thrombocytes were stimulated with collagen (5µg/ml or 1µg/ml), platelet-activating factor (PAF (0.1µ m, 0.01µ m, or 0.001µ m), or ADP (25µ m). Irreversible aggregation occurred consistently in response to collagen or PAF but not to ADP. Aggregation in response to high concentrations of PAF or collagen was not affected by in vitro incubation with 500µ m aspirin. Aggregation in response to low concentrations of PAF or collagen was partially inhibited by in vitro incubation with 500µ m aspirin, suggesting the presence of a prostaglandin-dependent mechanism for regulation of thrombocyte activation similar to that in mammalian platelets.
Relating dynamic mechanical data to flexible PVC low temperature performance

Abstract Flexible PVC is widely used in the medical industry in a wide variety of applications. In numerous instances, the material needs to sustain stresses at subambient temperatures. Dynamic mechanical analysis was correlated with product performance. It was found that the location of the Tg was the most important factor. However, impact studies indicated brittle-to-ductile transitions well below the Tg, most likely originating from sub-Tg secondary transitions. Further mapping of the product survival probability onto the impact spectrum allowed additional insights into the performance. Good agreement was also obtained with a method to predict the impact spectrum with DMA data.
International Human Rights Norms and Political Liberalization

This research utilizes seven case studies to develop a general model of the relationship between international human rights treaty adoption and domestic political liberalization. Past approaches have stressed either the role of norms in influencing state behavior or, conversely, the importance of immediate state interests in embracing human rights treaties. The model developed here provides a more complex and interactive picture of the relationship between treaty adoption and domestic reforms. The model distinguishes between two types of domestic actors, “xenophobic and traditionalists,” who oppose the infiltration of Western influence, and “cosmopolitan professionals,” who are generally receptive to Western values and ideals. Similarly, the model identifies two types of ties to the international community and specifies their impact on treaty adoption. Integration with the international community creates sympathy to and acceptance of international norms, while dependency creates isolation from international norms and a resistance to treaty adoption.
Congruences concerning values of the modular functions jn

The j-function j(z) = q−1+ 744 + 196884q + ⋅s plays an important role in many problems. In [7], Zagier, presented an interesting series of functions obtained from the j-function: j m (ζ) = (j(ζ) – 744)∨T0(m), where T0(m) is the usual m′th normalized weight 0 Hecke operator. In [3], Bruinier et al. show how this series of functions can be used to describe all meromorphic modular forms on SL2(ℤ). In this note we use these functions and basic notions about modular forms to determine previously unidentified congruence relations between the coefficients of Eisenstein series and the j-function.
Trade-offs between better hearing and better cosmetics.

A case study is reported of an adult bilateral cochlear implant patient who owns both a pair of ear-level and body-worn speech processors and chooses to wear them in unique configurations, knowingly compromising his auditory performance. The aim was to determine if differences in hearing could be quantified between these devices and to examine the size of these effects that would lend themselves to trading between performance and cosmetics. The patient reported wearing bilateral ear-level speech processors (programmed with the Cochlear Corporation spectral PEAK [SPEAK] coding strategy) 75% of the time for cosmetic and convenience reasons even though he "heard the best" with bilateral body-worn speech processors (programmed with the Cochlear Corporation advanced combination encoder strategy [ACE]). Speech perception and localization tests confirmed that this patient performed significantly better on monosyllabic phonemes in quiet (a difference from 60% to 75%) and localization (a total root-meansquared- er...
Hydrodenitrogenation Activities of Methyl-Substituted Indoles

Abstract The hydrodenitrogenation (HDN) reactivities of indole (IND) and several methyl-substituted indoles (MIN) were determined over a NiMo/Al 2 O 3 catalyst and a CoMo/Al 2 O 3 catalyst using a fixed-bed reactor at 340 ° C and 31 atm hydrogen pressure. Appreciable differences in reactivity were obtained, depending on the location of the methyl group. Compared to IND, overall conversions and HDN conversions were generally higher when methyl groups were on the aromatic ring, and substantially lower for methyl groups on the N ring. Two paths for initial conversion of IND (MIN) were deduced, viz., a CNH path (C–N bond cleavage) and a HYD (aromatic hydrogenation) path. The NiMo catalyst favored the HYD path over the CNH path, while the opposite occurred for the CoMo catalyst. Reasonable trends were obtained between initial CNH rates and the electrostatic potential on the N atom of the MINs, and between initial HYD rates and the ionization potential.
Adrenocorticotropin 56. Synthesis of [Cys(CAM)25]-αh-ACTH-(1–26) and bis[Cys25]-αh-ACTH-(1–26). Dissociation of aldosterone- and corticosterone-stimulating activity

Summary Two analogs of human corticotropin (αh-ACTH), [Cys(Cam)25]-αh-ACTH-(1–26) (I) and Bis[Cys25]-αh-ACTH-(1–26) (II), have been synthesized by modified procedures of the solid-phase method. When assayed for aldosterone production in rat capsular cells and corticosterone production in decapsular cells, it was found that peptide II had identical aldosterone- and corticosterone-stimulating activity as in the case of αh-ACTH. However, peptide I was 6–7 times greater in stimulating aldosterone production in comparison with the stimulation of corticosterone production.
Ion bombardment of resists

Abstract The general characteristics and applications of ion bombardment of resists are described. The emphasis in applications is paid mostly to the lithography aspect because of the tremendous interest that has recently been generated by the development of new ion sources. Chemical events such as chain scission and crosslinking induced by ionizing radiation are described. The G value which is the number of chemical events (scissions) associated with proton energy dissipation in polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is measured to be 0.70. The applications of conventional ion beam lithography to range measurements in polymers and microstructure fabrication are presented. The technique of ion beam inhibited etching and its application to microfabrication are also described.
Excitation spectra for spin-3/2 systems with high-degree pair interactions

We studied the excitation spectra of a spin-3/2 system with both dipolar and quadrupolar pair interactions. To study the thermal variations of the spectra we calculated the spectral-weight functions by using finite-temperature two-time Green's functions. These functions were evaluated by using the equation-of-motion method and by applying the random-phase decoupling approximation. At low temperatures when the system is ferromagnetically ordered we find for small wave vectors $k$ that the excitation spectra have a quadratic dependence on $k$. If the dipolar coupling is small compared to the quadrupolar, the system loses its magnetic ordering at a temperature ${T}_{d}$ but retains quadrupolar order up to a higher temperature ${T}_{q}$. As one increases the temperature from absolute zero, the excitation spectra for small wave vectors gradually change and become linearly dependent on $k$ when ${T}_{d}$ is reached. In the phase with only quadrupolar order, the excitation spectra remain linear in $k$. The amplitudes of the excitations are shown to satisfy sum rules and we discuss how these excitations may be observed by inelastic neutron scattering experiments.
Poor sleep maintenance and subjective sleep quality are associated with postpartum maternal depression symptom severity

Women are at increased risk of developing mood disorders during the postpartum period, and poor postpartum sleep may be a modifiable risk factor for the development of depression. This longitudinal study investigated the relationship between sleep variables and postpartum depression symptoms using wrist actigraphy and self-report surveys. Twenty-five healthy primiparous women were recruited from their outpatient obstetricians’ offices from July 2009 through March 2010. Subjects wore wrist actigraphs for 1 week during the third trimester of pregnancy and again during the 2nd, 6th, 10th, and 14th weeks postpartum while completing sleep logs and sleep surveys. Subjective assessments of mood were collected at the end of each actigraph week. Subjective sleep assessments were strongly predictive of depression severity scores as measured by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) across all weeks (p < 0.001). Actigraphic measures of sleep maintenance, such as sleep fragmentation, sleep efficiency, and wake time after sleep onset, were also significantly correlated with EPDS scores postpartum. However, there was no relationship between nocturnal sleep duration and EPDS scores. This study provides additional evidence that poor sleep maintenance as measured by wrist actigraphy, rather than lesser amounts of sleep, is associated with EPDS scores during the postpartum period and that subjective assessments of sleep may be more accurate predictors of postpartum depression symptoms than wrist actigraphy. It also supports the hypothesis that disrupted sleep may contribute to the development and extent of postpartum depression symptoms.