cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rethinking Probability Education: Perceptual Judgment as Epistemic Resource

The mathematics subject matter of probability is notoriously challenging, and in particular the content of random compound events. When students analyze experiments, they often omit to discern variations as distinct outcomes, e.g., HT and TH in the case of flipping a pair of coins, and thus infer erroneous predictions. Educators have addressed this conceptual difficulty by engaging students in actual experiments whose outcomes contradict the erroneous predictions. Yet whereas empirical activities per se are crucial for any probability design, because they introduce the pivotal contents of randomness, variance, sample size, and relations among them, empirical activities may not be the unique or best means for students to accept the logic of combinatorial analysis. Instead, learners may avail of their own pre-analytic perceptual judgments of the random generator itself so as to arrive at predictions that agree rather than conflict with mathematical analysis. I support this view first by detailing its philosophical, theoretical, and pedagogical foundations and then presenting empirical findings from a design-based research project. Twenty-eight students aged 9–11 participated in tutorial, task-based clinical interviews that utilized an innovative random generator. Their predictions were mathematically correct even though initially they did not discern variations. Students were then led to recognize the formal event space as a semiotic means of objectifying these presymbolic notions. I elaborate on the thesis via micro-ethnographic analysis of key episodes from a paradigmatic case study. Along the way, I explain the design-based research methodology, highlighting how it enables researchers to spin thwarted predictions into new theory of learning.
The Existence of One Dimensional Steady Detonation Waves in a Simple Model Problem

A system of three nonlinear ordinary differential equations arising from one-dimensional steady combustion problems is studied. The four singular points in the phase space correspond to equilibrium solutions before and after burning has taken place, and the desired detonation wave is a trajectory connecting two of these points (the cold and hot boundary points). In this paper it is shown that the problem of finding steady detonations is equivalent to proving the existence and uniqueness of a transversal heteroclinic orbit. The presence of a large parameter, the activation energy, makes it possible to show analytically that such an orbit exists for an open set of parameter values. In doing so, it is possible to give a geometric interpretation of the cold boundary difficulty. Some numerical results for lower activation energies are presented.
The Fluid Mechanical Problem of Fjord Circulations

There are too many theoretical aspects of fluid mechanical research on fjords and estuaries to treat all of them in a single paper even if, contrary to present circumstances, the author could claim overall competence. So, we will treat in some detail the single topic of classical estuarine circulations in which, on the average, low-salinity water, originating from run-off, flows out to sea over salty water moving slowly into the estuary. There are many associated physical considerations but the basic mathematical problem is to solve the set of equations of conservation of momentum, salt and volume together with boundary conditions to yield the mean velocity and density distributions.
The Effect of Pressure on the Combustion Synthesis of a Functionally-Graded Material: TiB2-Al2O3-Al Ceramic- Metal Composite System

This article describes some recent research on the synthesis of functionally-graded materials (FGM using combustion synthesis or self- propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS). A model ceramic-metal SHS system was investigated based on the reaction system: 3TiO2 + 3B2O3 + (10 + x)Al = 3TiB2 + 5Al2O2 + xAl in which x was varied between 0 and 17 to achieve the required composition and phase gradients in the FGM. The effects of combustion mode, reactant stoichiometry (xAl), green density, and applied loads on the stability of the SHS reaction and density of the FGM product are described.
Hybrid Spectral/Subspace Clustering of Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Data clustering approaches are widely used in many domains including molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Modern applications of clustering for MD simulation data must be capable of assessing both natively folded and disordered proteins. We compare the performance of the spectral clustering with a more recent subspace clustering approach, and a newly proposed 'hybrid' clustering algorithm which seeks to combine the useful characteristics of both methods on MD data from both protein classes. Results are analysed in terms of accuracy, stability, data density, and other properties. We conclude with what combinations of algorithms/improvements/data density will provide results that are either more accurate or more stable. We find that subspace clustering produces better results than standard spectral clustering, especially for disordered proteins and regardless of input data density or choice of affinity scaling. Additionally, our hybrid approach improves subspace results in most cases and entropic affinity scaling leads to a better performance of both spectral clustering and our hybrid approach.
Development of a Segmental Bioelectrical Impedance Spectroscopy Device for Body Composition Measurement

Whole-body bioelectrical impedance analysis for measuring body composition has been well-explored but may not be sensitive enough to changes in the trunk compared to changes in the limbs. Measuring individual body segments can address this issue. A segmental bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy device (SBISD) was designed for body composition measurement and a prototype was implemented. Compensation was performed to adjust the measured values to correct for a phase difference at high frequencies and to counteract the hook effect when measuring the human body. The SBISD was used to measure five subjects and was compared against three existing analyzers. For most segmental measurements, the SBISD was within 10% of the R0 and R∞ values determined with a Bodystat Multiscan 5000 and an Impedimed SFB7. The impedance values from the third reference device, a Seca 514, differed significantly due to its eight-electrode measuring technique, meaning impedance measurements could not be compared directly.
Phase I/II Trial of Electrophysiology-Guided Noninvasive Cardiac Radioablation for Ventricular Tachycardia.

Background: Case studies have suggested the efficacy of catheter-free, electrophysiology-guided noninvasive cardiac radioablation for ventricular tachycardia (VT) using stereotactic body radiation ...
Coherence and polarization in complex networks

In a community, individuals hold opinions and views that are shaped in part by their sources of information and their social network. These opinions and views are rarely uniformly distributed through the possible spectrum. They can exhibit different patterns. We are, in particular, interested in two opposite patterns: polarization, where views are concentrated around extreme positions, and coherence, where views are closer to the center, more moderate positions. We seek to create a model of views evolution and their convergence towards one or another of the patterns. Furthermore, we focus on applying interventions to the structure of networks to demote the polarization issue and influence a network toward convergence of cohered views. Our results show adding links between the weakly-connected nodes reduces polarization, implying the weakly-connected nodes can form bridges between extreme views.
Analysis of differentially expressed microRNAs and circulating tumor cells as predictive biomarkers of platinum chemoresistance in primary ovarian carcinomas: a prospective study

Lesson learned Circulating tumor cells, microRNA markers, or other biomarkers merit examination as part of correlative scientific analyses in prospective clinical trials. Background Platinum chemotherapy resistance occurs in approximately 25% of patients with ovarian carcinoma; however, no biomarkers of ovarian carcinoma chemoresistance have been validated. We performed a prospective trial designed to identify tumor-based predictive biomarkers of platinum resistance. Methods Tumor specimens were collected from 29 women with newly diagnosed histopathologically proven primary ovarian carcinoma. Of these, 23 women had specimens accessible for assessment and outcome data available regarding chemosensitive versus chemoresistance status via review of the medical record. Tumor slices were stained with antibodies against two microRNAs (miRNAs 29b and 199a) differentially expressed in chemoresistant ovarian cancer cell lines. Additionally, blood samples obtained at the time of diagnosis were analyzed for the presence of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). Results The average age of the patients was 64 years, and 82.6% had high-grade epithelial carcinomas. The baseline median CA-125 was 464 (range 32-2,782). No statistically significant differences were observed in miR29b or 199a expression in platinum-resistant/refractory versus platinum-sensitive tumors. Furthermore, the presence of CTCs was not found to be statistically significantly predictive of eventual platinum resistance. Conclusion Our analysis showed no differences in miR29b and 199a expression, and differences in baseline CTCs in women with newly diagnosed ovarian tumors were not statistically significant.
Assembling community economies

This article advances a framework for the study of community economies as assemblages constituted and shaped by three primary dynamics: relations, resources and constraints, and processes of stabil...
Rebel governance: military boon or military bust? (Isard Award Article):

What is the relationship between rebel governance and rebel military strength? Most existing research assumes that rebel governance enhances the military strength of the rebel group. I test this as...
Mapping increases in hyporheic exchange from channel-spanning logjams

Abstract Human impacts such as timber harvesting, channel engineering, beaver removal, and urbanization alter the physical and chemical characteristics of streams. These anthropogenic changes have reduced the number of fallen trees and amount of loose wood that form blockages in streams. Logjams increase hydraulic resistance and create hydraulic head gradients along the streambed that drive groundwater-surface water exchange. Here, we quantify changes in hyporheic exchange flow (HEF) due to a channel-spanning logjam using field measurements and numerical modeling in MODFLOW and MT3DMS. Electrical resistivity (ER) imaging was used to monitor the transport of solutes into the hyporheic zone during a series of in-stream tracer tests supplemented by in-stream monitoring. We conducted experiments in two reaches in Little Beaver Creek, Colorado (USA): one with a single, channel-spanning logjam and the second at a control reach with no logjams. Our results show that 1) higher HEF occurred at the reach with a logjam, 2) logjams created complex HEF pathways that caused bimodal solute breakthrough behavior downstream, and 3) higher discharge rates associated with spring snowmelt increased the extent and magnitude of HEF. Our numerical modeling supported all three field findings, and also suggested that lower flows increased solute retention in streams, although this last conclusion was not supported by field results. This study represents the first use of ER to explore HEF around a naturally occurring logjam over different stream discharges, and has implications for understanding how logjams influence the transport of solutes, the health of stream ecosystems, and stream restoration and conservation efforts.
Acute feeding suppression and toxicity of raspberry ketone [4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone] in mice.

Abstract Raspberry ketone (RK; [4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone]) is used by the food and cosmetic industry as a flavoring agent. RK is also marketed as a dietary supplement for weight maintenance and appetite control. The purpose of the study was to characterize the acute feeding suppression with RK (64–640 mg/kg) by oral gavage in male and female C57BL/6J mice. Cumulative 24 h food intake was reduced at 200 mg/kg (24% feeding suppression) in males and reliably reduced at 640 mg/kg (49–77% feeding suppression). Feeding suppression was not associated with pica behavior over the range of doses or conditioned taste aversion. In a separate experiment, a single oral gavage of RK (640 mg/kg) resulted in approximate 43% mortality rate (6 out 14 male mice) within 2 days. Atrophy of white adipose tissue, splenic abnormalities, and thymus involution were noted after 2–4 days after oral gavage RK. Total white blood cell count, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils were significantly lower, while mean red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit were significantly higher with RK treatment. Our findings indicated a dose-dependent feeding suppression with acute RK, but doses that reliable suppress food intake are associated with pathological changes.
Evaluating Goldmann Applanation Tonometry Intraocular Pressure Measurement Agreement Between Ophthalmic Technicians and Physicians.

Purpose To examine IOP measurement disagreement between technicians and physicians and the impact of an educational intervention on the short and long-term disagreement in IOP measurement using Goldmann applanation tonometry. Design Prospective study designed to enhance measurement reliability. S etting : A glaucoma clinic at a university hospital. S tudy P opulation : 6 technicians and 2 physicians. I ntervention : An educational intervention was implemented for the technicians to improve IOP measurement agreement with physicians. M ain O utcome M easures : Frequency of IOP measurement disagreement between physicians and technicians, defined as a difference in IOP of >2 or >3 mm Hg and assessed at baseline and immediately and 6 months postintervention. Results IOP was evaluated for a total of 529 eyes (physician measured mean IOP = 16.4 mm Hg [SD = 5.9]), 30 per technician-physician pair for each data collection period: baseline, immediately postintervention and 6 months postintervention. At baseline, physicians disagreed 17% and 7% of the time when measuring IOP using >2 and >3 mm Hg to define disagreement, respectively, whereas the average disagreement between technicians and physicians was 25% and 13%. Disagreement was greater at IOPs greater than 20 mm Hg. No significant changes were noted in the frequency of disagreement between technicians and physicians immediately or 6 months postintervention. Conclusions Two physicians measuring the same patient in the same room disagreed by >2 mm Hg in 17% of patients' eyes, and this amount of disagreement was even higher when comparing physicians to certified technicians. An educational intervention did not improve agreement in IOP measurements between technicians and physicians. This highlights an important limitation of Goldmann tonometry.
Determinants of adult odonate community structure at several spatial scales: effects of habitat type and landscape context

Dragonflies (Insecta: Odonata) use both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, and the abundance and diversity of odonates should be good indicators of habitat integrity. To determine which environmen...
Trajectories of and Disparities in HIV Prevalence among Black, White, and Hispanic/Latino Men who Have Sex with Men in 86 Large U.S. Metropolitan Statistical Areas, 1992-2013

Abstract Purpose The challenges of producing adequate estimates of HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men (MSM) are well known. No one, to our knowledge, has published annual estimates of HIV prevalence among MSM over an extended period and across a wide range of geographic areas. Methods This article applies multilevel modeling to data integrated from numerous sources to estimate and validate trajectories of HIV prevalence among MSM from 1992 to 2013 for 86 of the largest metropolitan statistical areas in the United States. Results Our estimates indicate that HIV prevalence among MSM increased, from an across–metropolitan statistical area mean of 11% in 1992 to 20% in 2013 (S.D. = 3.5%). Our estimates by racial/ethnic subgroups of MSM suggest higher mean HIV prevalence among black and Hispanic/Latino MSM than among white MSM across all years and geographic regions. Conclusions The increases found in HIV prevalence among all MSM are likely primarily attributable to decreases in mortality and perhaps also to increasing HIV incidence among racial/ethnic minority MSM. Future research is needed to confirm this. If true, health care initiatives should focus on targeted HIV prevention efforts among racial/ethnic minority MSM and on training providers to address cross-cutting health challenges of increased longevity among HIV-positive MSM.
Letter to the editor: response to Zheng et al.

We thank Zheng et al [1][1] for their interest in our recent article assessing the association between lifetime abuse history and self-reported pain medication side effects.[2][2] Our hope is that this work will call attention to this potential link and, ultimately, lead to improved care for
Mobil sein nach der Geburt eines Kindes – Erkenntnisse aus einem praxisnahen Forschungsprojekt

Grundlage dieses Beitrags ist eine Befragung unter 650 Schwangeren und jungen Eltern zu ihrem Mobilitatsverhalten, mit einem Fokus auf das Radfahren. Die Befragung zeigt deutliche Veranderungen insbesondere bezuglich des Radfahrens und Zu-Fus-Gehens und insbesondere bei Muttern. Erklarungsansatze sind eine Neuorganisation des Familienalltags durch die Umbruchsituation Geburt mit einer Wiederaufnahme traditioneller Geschlechterrollen mit einer Hauptlast der Sorgearbeit bei Muttern, in der Zeit direkt nach der Geburt korperliche Einschrankungen bei Frauen, und ein mangelndes Wissen bezuglich der Moglichkeiten des Radfahrens. Gegen das Radfahren sprechen fur die Befragten vor allem die Angst vor Unfallen, mangelnde Infrastruktur, eine hohere Praktikabilitat anderer Verkehrsmittel und fehlende Radfahr-Ausrustung fur das Baby. Trotzdem wird von Vielen angestrebt, das Radfahren nach einer gewissen Zeit wieder aufzunehmen.
Selective Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging is Superior to Liberal CT Imaging in the Hemodynamically Normal Pediatric Blunt Trauma Patient.

ABSTRACT Background The optimal imaging strategy in hemodynamically stable pediatric blunt trauma remains to be defined. The purpose of this study was to determine the differences between selective and liberal computed tomography (CT) strategy in a pediatric trauma population with respect to radiation exposure and outcomes. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of hemodynamically stable blunt pediatric trauma patients (≤16 y) who were admitted to a Level I trauma center between 2013-2016. Patients were stratified into selective and liberal imaging cohorts. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to compare outcomes between the groups. Outcomes included radiation dose, hospital and ICU length of stay, complications and mortality. Results Of the 485 patients included, 176 underwent liberal and 309 selective CT imaging. The liberal cohort were more likely to be severely injured (ISS>15: 34.1 versus 8.4%, P 15 mSv were higher with liberal scanning in patients with both ISS > 15 (OR 2.78, 95% CI 1.76-5.19, P Conclusion Selective CT imaging in hemodynamically stable blunt pediatric trauma patients was associated with reduced radiation exposure and similar outcomes when compared to a liberal CT strategy.
Effect modification by maximum temperature of the association between PM2.5 and short-term cardiorespiratory mortality and emergency room visits in Lima, Peru, 2010-2016.

BACKGROUND The health effects of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) may be worse at higher temperatures. OBJECTIVE To investigate temperature's effect on PM2.5-mortality/morbidity associations in Lima, Peru. METHODS Time-series regressions relating PM2.5 and temperature to mortality and emergency room (ER) visits during 2010-2016. Daily PM2.5 levels (assigned to 40 Lima districts) and daily maximum temperature (Lima-wide) were estimated based on ground monitors, remote sensing, and modeling. We analyzed all-cause, cardiovascular (ICD codes I00-I99), and respiratory (ICD codes J00-J99) mortality, and cardiovascular and respiratory causes for ER visits. RESULTS The average PM2.5 concentration was 20.9 µg/m3 (IQR 17.5-23.5). The mean daily maximum temperature was 23.8 °C (IQR 20.8-26.9). PM2.5's effect on all-cause, respiratory, and circulatory disease mortality was significantly (p < 0.05) stronger at temperatures above the maximum temperature median. The rate ratios per increase of 10 µg/m3 of PM2.5 for all cause, respiratory, and circulatory mortality respectively were 1.03 (1.00-1.06), 1.04 (0.98-1.10), and 1.04 (0.98-1.10) at temperatures below the median, vs. 1.08 (1.04-1.12), 1.11 (1.03-1.19), and 1.14 (1.05-1.25) when temperatures were above the median. Results were analogous for ER visits for respiratory but not circulatory disease. SIGNIFICANCE Results strengthen the evidence that air pollution may be more dangerous when temperatures are higher. IMPACT Our data contribute to a growing body of literature which indicates that the damaging effects of PM2.5 may be worse at higher temperature, adding new evidence from Lima, Peru.
The weakest link: The decline of the surface transportation network

Abstract This study explores the economic mechanisms behind the decline of a surface transportation network, based on the assumption that the decline phase is a spontaneous process driven by decentralized decisions of individual travelers and privatized links. A simulation model is developed with a degeneration process by which the weakest link is removed iteratively from the network. Experiments reveal how the economic efficiency of a network evolves during the degeneration process and suggest an “optimal” degenerated network could be derived during the decline phase in terms of maximizing total social welfare.
New Zealand: The supreme political football

New Zealand, like Australia, entered the 1980s without a mandatory earnings-related pension program. Unlike Australia, however, New Zealand also ended the twentieth century without such a program. Although the New Zealand pension system has been perhaps the most frequently changed of any of the six countries considered here, the basic shape of that program remains very close to what it was two decades ago. Indeed, one prominent analyst of New Zealand pension policy has likened it to an "old-fashioned wobble doll [which] has taken many a thump from politicians in the last decade. But like the wobble doll, after some gravity-defying oscillations it returns to much the same position...of a basic, flat-rate, taxable, individual state pension, no compulsory private saving and no tax incentives..." Understanding those two seemingly conflicting attributes of New Zealand pensions - frequent pension policy change and the absence of a fundamental transformation of pension policy - is one of the primary objectives of this chapter.The other primary objective concerns the lessons that New Zealand experience has to offer about the politics of major pension reforms. Since 1997, New Zealand has seriously both a move to an individual account system and a large collective investment fund. A contributory, individual accounts plan (although without earnings-related benefits) was put before voters in a 1997 referendum, and overwhelmingly rejected. A collective investment fund proposed by the current Labour-Alliance coalition government was enacted by Parliament in 2001, but it remains vulnerable to dismantling by a future government. Are there lessons that New Zealand can offer about the political hurdles that are likely to arise with each of these reform proposals? And does New Zealand suggest any lessons about ways in which these hurdles can be resolved?
Thermometric Fixed Points Using Superconductivity

In current practice, precision in thermometry below 20°K is commonly achieved by measuring the vapor pressure of liquid helium or by the use of resistive or paramagnetic thermometers. The latter techniques provide a wider temperature range than the 0.3 to 4°K range over which combination of He3 and He4 vapor pressure bulbs can be used, but both the resistive and the paramagnetic thermometers must be recalibrated continually against the vapor pressure scale (or a similarly dependable primary thermometer) to assure continued accuracy. Considerable effort is involved in the recalibration process, particularly in experiments involving the use of the He3–He4 dilution refrigerator; in this case, the refrigerant is a mixture of He3 and He4, which cannot be used directly as a thermometric medium. Moreover, it is difficult to attach and to use a separate vapor pressure bulb in this apparatus, since the experiment is often connected to the dilution chamber by an imperfect thermal link.
Do Market Makers Suffer from Splitting Headaches

Studies of transactions surrounding stock split ex-dates often conclude that splitting firms either experience a decline or an improvement in their stock's liquidity, based on independent measures of trading costs and trading activity. In contrast, our evidence suggests that splits from outside into what often is deemed to be the “optimal” stock price range of $10.00 to $39.99 are “nonevents” for market makers: The spread-setting behavior of the market does not change after a split. Our analysis accounts for the interdependencies between bid-ask spreads and market microstructure effects and distinguishes between optimal and all other splitting firms.
Student perspectives on a real world project

This paper reveals students' reaction to their work on an Assessment System for use by the Computer Science Department at Iona College. It describes their reactions to various aspects of the software project, both positive and negative and also describes feedback on their skills from some of their current employers.
Synthesis and Some Biological Properties of 4-Valine-oxytocin and 1-Deamino-4-valine-oxytocin

Abstract 4-Valine-oxytocin and 1-deamino-4-valine-oxytocin, analogues of the posterior pituitary hormone containing a valine residue in place of the glutamine residue in position 4, have been synthesized by the p-nitrophenyl ester method of peptide synthesis and tested for pharmacological activity. The 4-valine-oxytocin possesses 140 units per mg of oxytocic activity and 240 units per mg of avian vasodepressor activity. The 1-deamino-4-valine-oxytocin, in which the free amino group on the half-cystine residue in position 1 of 4-valine-oxytocin is replaced by hydrogen, is a highly potent compound, possessing approximately 350 units of oxytocic activity and 800 units of avian vasodepressor activity per mg.
Voltammetric, potentiometric and amperometric studies with a rotated aluminum wire electrode: Amperometric determination of fluoride with the raie

Abstract The rotated aluminum electrode is a suitable indicator electrode in the amperometric titration of fluoride, Fluoride in concentrations varying between 1.10-4 and 2.10-3M was titrated with a standard aluminum nitrate solution in aqueous buffer solutions (pH between 3.6 and 46) Equilibrium was established within 15 mim. The fluoride-aluminum ratio at the (true) end-point was found to increase from 2 2 in 10-4M fluoride to 28 in. 2.10-3M fluoride. The titration calculated from the stability constants of the various aluminum-fluoride complexes were found to be in excellent agreement with the experimental curves. From a practical point of view titration in an acetate buffer in 50% alcohol in the presence of 0 5 M potassium or sodium nitrate is recommended. The fluoride-aluminum ratio at the end-point was found to be 5 9 ± 0 1 and independent of the fluoride concentration.
Effect of Tool Kinematics, Brush Pressure and Cleaning Fluid pH on Coefficient of Friction and Tribology of post-CMP PVA Brush Scrubbing Processes

Real-time coefficient of friction (COF) analysis is used to determine the extent of normal and shear forces during post-CMP PVA brush scrubbing and identify the tribology of the process. Fluid pH and applied pressure have pronounced effects on process tribology and the magnitude of COF. In cases where brush rotation is the only kinematic attribute of the system, low pH results in ‘mixed lubrication’ where increasing brush velocity causes a dramatic reduction in COF in accordance with classical tribological arguments. At lower pressures the tribological mechanism shifts to ‘hydrodynamic lubrication’ with significantly lower values of COF. Regardless of pressure, increasing the pH to 7 and 10.7 causes the tribology to remain in ‘hydrodynamic lubrication’ and results in even lower values of COF. Trends are explained qualitatively by considering the effect of pH on the solubility and gellation characteristics of silica in the silica-water system. Stribeck curves fail to shed light on the tribology of the system when complex ranges of tool kinematics (i.e. wafer rotation and brush oscillation superimposed on brush rotation) are employed. The results are counter-intuitive since they indicate nearly an order of magnitude increase in COF with increasing brush velocity. Nevertheless, results demonstrate the utility of having complex ranges of motion in PVA brush scrubbing such that very low or very high values of COF can be realized by simply increasing the rotational velocity of the brush while maintaining a constant wafer rotation and brush oscillation.
A new instrument for measuring the radiative lifetimes and for studying the state-selected bimolecular reaction chemistry of small ionic species

Abstract A design for a new Fourier transform—ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer (FT—ICR) is presented. The FT—ICR consists of two differentially pumped vacuum chambers, one housing two Newport pulsed valves, the other housing a 2 in cubic ICR cell which employs an IonSoec FTMS 2000 electronics console for detection. The combination of pulsed valves and an excimer-pumped dye laser permits the formation of vibrationally state-selected ions via resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization in the absence of relaxing collisions. Experiments are presented which demonstrate that the state-selected ions exist at near-thermal translational energies and sub-thermal rotational energies. Data are presented illustrating the capabilities of this instrument for the measurement of long-lived electronic and vibrational state radiative lifetimes, as well as the reactivity of vibrationally state-selected NO + ( X 1 Σ + , υ = 0, 1, 2, 3) with a number of neutral substrate molecules.
Youth Fitness Testing: Validation, Planning, and Politics.

Physical fitness testing has become a divisive issue among professional, governmental, and private agencies. The selection of test items has too often been the result of political compromise rather than measurement processes. This article outlines the physiological and measurement bases for the development of physical fitness tests. It raises questions that need to be addressed by physiological, psychological, and evaluation scholars. Roles for different individuals and groups are delineated. The process recommended would lead to the development of a better physical fitness test that could be supported and promoted by professional, governmental, and private organizations.
Numerical schemes for dynamically orthogonal equations of stochastic fluid and ocean flows

The quantification of uncertainties is critical when systems are nonlinear and have uncertain terms in their governing equations or are constrained by limited knowledge of initial and boundary conditions. Such situations are common in multiscale, intermittent and non-homogeneous fluid and ocean flows. The dynamically orthogonal (DO) field equations provide an adaptive methodology to predict the probability density functions of such flows. The present work derives efficient computational schemes for the DO methodology applied to unsteady stochastic Navier-Stokes and Boussinesq equations, and illustrates and studies the numerical aspects of these schemes. Semi-implicit projection methods are developed for the mean and for the DO modes, and time-marching schemes of first to fourth order are used for the stochastic coefficients. Conservative second-order finite-volumes are employed in physical space with new advection schemes based on total variation diminishing methods. Other results include: (i) the definition of pseudo-stochastic pressures to obtain a number of pressure equations that is linear in the subspace size instead of quadratic; (ii) symmetric advection schemes for the stochastic velocities; (iii) the use of generalized inversion to deal with singular subspace covariances or deterministic modes; and (iv) schemes to maintain orthonormal modes at the numerical level. To verify our implementation and study the properties of our schemes and their variations, a set of stochastic flow benchmarks are defined including asymmetric Dirac and symmetric lock-exchange flows, lid-driven cavity flows, and flows past objects in a confined channel. Different Reynolds number and Grashof number regimes are employed to illustrate robustness. Optimal convergence under both time and space refinements is shown as well as the convergence of the probability density functions with the number of stochastic realizations.
100W high-brightness multi-emitter laser pump

We report results of a spatially-multiplexed broad area laser diode platform designed for efficient pumping of fiber lasers or direct-diode systems. Optical output power in excess of 100W from a 105μm core, 0.15NA fiber is demonstrated with high coupling efficiency. The compact form factor and low thermal resistance enable tight packing densities needed for kW-class fiber laser systems. Broad area laser diodes have been optimized to reduce near- and far-field performance and prevent blooming without sacrificing other electro-optic parameters. With proper lens optimization this produces ~5% increase in coupling / wall plug efficiency for our design. In addition to performance characteristics, an update on long term reliability testing of 9XX nm broad area laser diode is provided that continues to show no wear out under high acceleration. Under nominal operating conditions of 12W ex-facet power at 25C, the diode mean time to failure (MTTF) is forecast to be ~ 480 kh.
Rain-Rate Estimation in the Presence of Hail Using S-Band Specific Differential Phase and Other Radar Parameters

Abstract Multiparameter radar measurements were made during a heavy rainfall event accompanied by hail in Colorado. Rainfall rates R and accumulation Σ for this event were estimated using S-band specific differential phase KDP, reflectivity factor ZH, and X-band specific attenuation AH3. These estimates were compared with measurements from a ground-based rain gauge. Both RKDP and RAH3 relations were in good agreement with the rain gauge data, that is, less than 10% difference in the rainfall accumulations. The RZ relation produced similar results only when ZH was truncated at 55 dBZ. This study demonstrates the potential of KDP for estimating rainfall rates in severe storms that may have rain-hail mixtures.
Microcalorimeter arrays for high resolution soft X-ray spectroscopy

Abstract We have produced monolithic silicon detector arrays comprising 36 one-square-millimeter microcalorimeter pixels capable of achieving a resolution of ∼8 eV FWHM for soft X-rays. Each silicon pixel is suspended by silicon beams that provide a weak link to a ∼60 mK heat sink. The thermometer element of each pixel is an ion-implanted thermistor. X-ray thermalization is achieved in a 1 μm absorbing layer of MOCVD-grown HgTe. The HgTe is grown on thin Si substrates that are individually attached to the array elements using epoxy. We have determined that the value of the conductance of the link between absorber and thermometer critically affects device performance. We have performed preliminary investigations using arrays with small suspended absorber isolators etched in the center of each pixel. When an absorber is attached to the center of an absorber isolator, the beams supporting that isolator provide the thermal link to the rest of the pixel.
Characteristics of Children with Asthma Who Achieved Remission of Asthma

Objective. To characterize two groups of asthmatics who had achieved remission and those who had not achieved remission of asthma. Methods. The study was a retrospective cohort study based on 117 asthmatic children who participated in a previous study. We categorized the children into two groups: asthmatics with remission versus asthmatics without remission. We defined remission of asthma as lack of symptoms/signs of asthma or asthma-related medications or health care services for at least three consecutive years. Long-term remission was defined by no relapse of asthma after achieving remission. We characterized these groups. Results. Of the 117 subjects, 70 (60%) were male, 91 (78%) were Caucasians, and the mean age at index date of asthma was 8.1 years. A total of 59 asthmatic children (50%) achieved remission and 28 asthmatics (24%) achieved long-term remission. Asthmatics with remission were more likely to be Caucasian (87%) compared to those without (69%) (p = .039) There were no differences in the f...
When Do Consumers Believe Puffery Claims? The Moderating Role of Brand Familiarity and Repetition

In the United States, exaggerated advertising claims for products and services, known as “puffery,” make up a considerable proportion of all claims in the marketplace. Legally, advertisers do not need to substantiate the puffery claims because it is believed that consumers would not be deceived by such exaggerated claims. This research reports two experiments that examined the moderating role of brand familiarity and repetition on puffery claims. Results indicated that while puffery generally led to weak main effects, it had significant interaction effects with brand familiarity (Study 1) and claim repetition (Study 2) on the dependent variables.
Providence School Asthma Partnership: School-based Asthma Program for Inner-City Families

Over 3 years, 972 families participated in an after-school asthma program at their child's school. Parents and children attended concurrent 21/2 -hour workshops. Parents were 74% Latino; 45% non-English speaking, with 77% of children on Medicaid. Asthma symptoms were significantly reduced, from multiple times per week to less than once per week on average. Oral steroid use decreased to one third of baseline use. Hospital days decreased from 11% to 2%; emergency visits decreased 35% to 4%; and school days missed decreased 48% to 20%. This program has now become sustainable with both private and Medicaid insurance coverage.
Robin Ganser and Rocky Piro (Eds.), Parallel Patterns of Shrinking Cities and Urban Growth: Spatial Planning for Sustainable Development of City Regions and Rural Areas (Farnham, UK: Ashgate, 2012).

This edited book focuses on the parallel occurrences of urban growth and decline within and adjacent to urban regions using a common framework of sustainability based primarily on international cas...
Suppression of cAMP formation by adenosine in myenteric ganglia from guinea-pig small intestine

Effects of the adenosine receptor agonist 2-chloro-N6-cyclopentyl-adenosine (CCPA) on stimulation of cAMP formation by histamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, substance P and forskolin were determined for enzymatically dissociated ganglia from the myenteric plexus of guinea-pig small intestine. Each of the 4 substances stimulated cAMP production. CCPA blocked the stimulation of cAMP by histamine, but not by 5-hydroxytryptamine or substance P. CCPA marginally suppressed stimulation by forskolin. CCPA alone suppressed basal levels of cAMP. The adenosine receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dimethylxanthine (CPT) reversed the inhibitory action of CCPA on stimulation of cAMP formation by histamine. Exposure to adenosine deaminase or CPT increased cAMP in the ganglia. The results are consistent with a hypothesis that stimulation of adenylate cyclase and elevation of intraneuronal cAMP in enteric neurons are steps in the signal transduction cascade for the excitatory actions of 5-hydroxytryptamine, substance P and histamine. They are consistent also with an original hypothesis from electrophysiologic studies which states that stimulation of adenosine A1 receptors suppresses cAMP formation and thereby slow synaptic excitation in response to histamine, but not to 5-hydroxytryptamine or substance P. The results support evidence from intracellular microelectrode studies which suggested that endogenous adenosine accumulates to levels sufficient for tonic suppression of cAMP formation in myenteric ganglia in vitro.
Global Complexity and Global Civil Society.

This paper argues that recent struggles against neoliberal axioms such as free trade and open markets have led to a militant reframing of global civil society by grassroots social movements. It contests that this struggle to invest the concept of global civil society with transformative potential rests upon an identifiable praxis, a “strange attractor” that disturbs other civil society actors, through its re-articulation of a politics that privileges self-organization, direct action, and direct democracy. The paper further suggests that the emergence of this “antagonistic” orientation is best understood through the lens of complexity theory and offers some conceptual tools to begin the process of analyzing global civil society as an outcome and effect of global complexity.
Calculations of atmospheric neutrinos

Abstract Calculations of the flux of atmospheric neutrinos have proliferated since the last TAUP conference in 1999. It is difficult to attribute all differences among the calculations to reasonable variations in the input.
Immune Activation: Death, Danger and Dendritic Cells

Dendritic cells are critical for host immunity, and sense microbes with pathogen recognition receptors. New evidence indicates that these cells also sense uric acid crystals in dead cells, suggesting that the immune system is conscious not only of pathogens, but also of death and danger.
Interaction, Facilitation, and Deep Learning in Cross-Cultural Chat: A Case Study.

Abstract This case study evaluates the potential of synchronous chat for deep learning in the context of a distance education program between two universities in different cultural contexts, with a focus on interaction and facilitation. Three rubrics—functional moves, social construction of knowledge, and teaching presence—were applied in a longitudinal content analysis of chat sessions between four adult learners in Azerbaijan and their two facilitators in the U.S. The findings reveal that although the quality of the interaction was limited by the nature of the task, language difficulties, and differing cultural expectations about instruction, conceptual negotiative activity increased over time. In conjunction with previous research on constructivist learning, these results support the view that synchronous chat can facilitate deep learning, but also suggest that the cost may outweigh the benefits, especially when language and cultural barriers must be overcome.
Study of the kinetics and mechanism of the thermal nitridation of SiO2

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) has been used to study the nitridation time and temperature dependence of the nitrogen distribution in thermally nitrided SiO2 films. The XPS data show that the maximum nitrogen concentration near the (SiO(x)N(y)/Si interface is initially at the interface, but moves 20-25 A away from the interface with increasing nitridation time. Computer modeling of the kinetic processes involved is carried out and reveals a mechanism in which diffusing species, initially consisting primarily of nitrogen, react with the substrate, followed by formation of the oxygen-rich oxynitride due to reaction of the diffusing oxygen displaced by the slower nitridation of the SiO2. The data are consistent with this mechanism provided the influence of the interfacial strain on the nitridation and oxidation kinetics is explicitly accounted for.
Synthesis and properties of photocross-linked poly(propylene fumarate) scaffolds

The photocross-linking of poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF) to form porous scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications was investigated. PPF was cross-linked using the photoinitiator bis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phenylphosphine oxide (BAPO) and exposure to 30 min of long wavelength ultraviolet (UV) light. The porous photocross-linked PPF scaffolds (6.5 mm diameter cylinders) were synthesized by including a NaCl porogen (70, 80, and 90 wt% at cross-linking) prior to photocross-linking. After UV exposure, the samples were placed in water to remove the soluble porogen, revealing the porous PPF scaffold. As porogen leaching has not been used often with cross-linked polymers, and even more rarely with photoinitiated cross-linking, a study of the efficacy of this strategy and the properties of the resulting material was required. Results show that the inclusion of a porogen does not significantly alter the photoinitiation process and the resulting scaffolds are homogeneously cross-linked throughout their dia...
A convenient high yield synthesis of nitroxides

Abstract Appropriate secondary amines are readily converted to nitroxides by dimethyldioxirane in a rapid, convenient, and essentially quantitative process.
Vibrational echo studies of proteins, liquids, and glasses

Ultrafast IR vibrational echo experiments, which are used to examine liquids, glasses, and proteins are described. Like the NMR spin echo and other NMR pulse sequences, the vibrational echo can extract dynamical and spectroscopic information that cannot be obtained from a vibrational absorption spectrum. The vibrational echo measures the homogeneous vibrational linewidth even if the absorption line is massively inhomogeneously broadened. When combined with pump-probe experiments, the homogeneous pure dephasing is obtained. Conducting these experiments as a function of temperature provides information in dynamics and intermolecular interactions. The nature of the method and the experimental procedures are outlined. Experimental results are presented for the metal carbonyl solute, Rh(CO)2acac, in liquid and glassy dibutyl phthalate. The dynamics of the CO ligand bound at the active site of the protein myoglobin is also examined and compared with that in several myoglobin mutants. The results provide insights into protein dynamics and how protein structural fluctuations are communicated to a ligand bound at the active site.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Validity of WAIS-III performance scale subtests completed with the non-dominant hand.

Many patients with hemiplegia use only the non-dominant hand to complete the WAIS-III. It is not known to what degree this administrative change alters scores on specific subtests. To answer this question, we compared scores on Digit Symbol-Coding, Block Design, Picture Arrangement, Object Assembly, and Symbol Search via standard administration (SA) with scores from non-dominant hand administration (NDA). Fifty-eight college students were assigned to either SA or NDA groups. There were 29 SAs and 29 NDAs with means for age of 19.48 years (SD = 1.15) and 25.68 years (SD = 7.46). Relative to the SA group, the average Digit Symbol-Coding and Symbol Search scores were reduced by 4.04 and 1.62 points by NDA. Scores on the other subtests were not adversely affected by NDA.