cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kierkegaard on Internal Collapse as Despair

From the descriptions given in the first two chapters, I hope an understanding has emerged as to how both Kierkegaard and Nietzsche pursue the ethical question of the best way of life. By “way of life” Kierkegaard and Nietzsche both mean, roughly, the manifestation of one’s highest values in the way one relates to oneself, others, and the world. Kierkegaard and Nietzsche approach ethics by developing a broad typology of different ways of life and exploring their internal strengths or weaknesses. Although there are some similarities in the ideal “best way of life” illustrated by Kierkegaard and Nietzsche (e.g., individuality) and although both have harsh rebukes for both the life of conformist mediocrity and the life of ascetic world renunciation, I do not mean to suggest any neat parallel between their respective typologies.
Comprehensive dust explosion modeling

This chapter summarizes some of the more recent efforts to model dust explosion phenomena as multiphase, turbulent, chemically reacting flows. Dust flames are governed by physical and chemical phenomena that present difficult challenges to overcome. In Chapter 3, Thermodynamics of Dust Combustion, through Chapter 9, Flame Acceleration Effects, we examined simple, useful models that approximate some of the key features of dust combustion. If we wish to explore how dust flames are governed by the complex interplay among chemical kinetics, multiphase flow, turbulence, and thermal radiation, we must resort to the methods of computational fluid dynamics (CFD).
(In)consistency in the eye of the beholder: The roles of warmth, competence, and valence in lay perceptions of inconsistency

Abstract Although perceived inconsistencies play a central role in how people understand the world, research on impression formation has largely neglected lay perceptions of inconsistency. The current research seeks to address this gap by investigating perceived inconsistencies between positive and negative information along the dimensions of warmth and competence. Using a memory-based measure of surprise, three studies found an expectancy-violation effect for behaviors that were incongruent with the valence of prior information. This effect generalized across warmth and competence, indicating that prior information along one dimension led to valence-congruent expectations along the other dimension. There was no evidence for valence asymmetries in expectancy-violations regardless of whether the impression dimension involved warmth or competence. A fourth study replicated these findings using a self-report measure of perceived inconsistency. Implications for research on person perception, attitudes, and cognitive consistency are discussed.
Preventive Interventions: An Immediate Priority.

In 2006 I recommended people use what was then the just-published ranking of the most valuable clinical preventive services to inform decision making with the aim of improving population health.[1][1] In the intervening decade much has changed in the health care sector. The Patient Protection and
Structural equation modeling of associations among taste-related risk factors, taste functioning, and adiposity.

Objective Variation in taste perception and exposure to risk factors of taste alterations have been independently linked with elevated adiposity. Using a laboratory database, taste-adiposity associations were modeled and examined for whether taste functioning mediates the association between taste-related risk factors and adiposity. Methods Healthy women (n = 407, 35.5 ± 16.9 y) self-reported histories of risk factors of altered taste functioning (tonsillectomy, multiple ear infections, head trauma) and were assessed for taste functioning (tongue-tip and whole-mouth intensities of quinine and salt) and density of taste papillae. Twenty-four percent had elevated waist circumferences; thirty-nine percent had overweight or obesity. Using structural equation modeling, direct and indirect associations between taste-related risk factors, taste functioning, and adiposity were tested. Results In models with good fit, elevated central adiposity was explained directly by history of risk factors (tonsillectomy, multiple ear infections) and directly by lower taste functioning (lower tongue-tip taste function, lower papillae density). Risk factors of taste alterations were significantly associated with lower taste functioning, with taste mediating the association between head trauma and reduced adiposity. Conclusions This large laboratory-based study supports associations between taste-related risk factors, taste functioning, and adiposity. These findings need to be confirmed with other population-based studies, including the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013-2014 taste data.
Sums of squares of Littlewood–Richardson coefficients and GL n -harmonic polynomials

We consider the example from invariant theory concerning the conjugation action of the general linear group on several copies of the n × n matrices, and examine a symmetric function which stably describes the Hilbert series for the invariant ring with respect to the multigradation by degree. The terms of this Hilbert series may be described as a sum of squares of Littlewood–Richardson coefficients. A “principal specialization” of the gradation is then related to the Hilbert series of the K-invariant subspace in the GL n -harmonic polynomials (in the sense of Kostant), where K denotes a block diagonal embedding of a product of general linear groups. We also consider other specializations of this Hilbert series.
Mason Faculty Club: A Place to Have Teaching & Learning Conversations

Some of the best conversations with your colleagues about teaching and learning happen over food! AÂ Consider meeting up with colleagues at the Mason Faculty Club.About Mason ClubThe Mason Club was established by an advisory board in collaboration with the university and Mason Dining. The club allows faculty and staff, whose paths may not have normally have crossed, to share a meal featuring fresh baked breads, salad bar, real good soups, a daily carvery offering a hot & juicy sandwich, and a daily made-from-scratch hot dish, in a welcoming environment A¢â¬â created by Club Manager Jerrod Moore and Executive Chef Amy Pel. Beer and wine service will also be available during the afternoon once a liquor license is secured. Come join your colleagues and enjoy the space!AÂ To join or learn more:AÂ http://dining.gmu.edu/mason-club/
Prosapip1-Dependent Synaptic Adaptations in the Nucleus Accumbens Drive Alcohol Intake, Seeking, and Reward.

The mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), a transducer of local dendritic translation, participates in learning and memory processes as well as in mechanisms underlying alcohol-drinking behaviors. Using an unbiased RNA-seq approach, we identified Prosapip1 as a novel downstream target of mTORC1 whose translation and consequent synaptic protein expression are increased in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of mice excessively consuming alcohol. We demonstrate that alcohol-dependent increases in Prosapip1 levels promote the formation of actin filaments, leading to changes in dendritic spine morphology of NAc medium spiny neurons (MSNs). We further demonstrate that Prosapip1 is required for alcohol-dependent synaptic localization of GluA2 lacking AMPA receptors in NAc shell MSNs. Finally, we present data implicating Prosapip1 in mechanisms underlying alcohol self-administration and reward. Together, these data suggest that Prosapip1 in the NAc is a molecular transducer of structural and synaptic alterations that drive and/or maintain excessive alcohol use.
Edward W. Said and Rethinking the Question of Palestine

Edward W. Said has been described as both "the conscience of Palestine" and a citizen of the world. The paper explores his thinking on the question of Palestine over three decades. He played a key role in transforming international discourse on Palestine: issues such as the 1948 Palestinian Nakba, Palestinian dispossession, Palestinian oral history, the "right of return" of the Palestine refugees, the authoritarianism and corruption of the Palestinian Authority constituted some of Said's concerns. Said's search for an alternative to the flawed Oslo process led him back to the one-state solution, based on equality and justice and a joint Palestinian–Israeli struggle. Said's rethinking of the Palestine question was an indictment of the narrow brand of ethnic (Jewish and Arab) nationalism. For him, Zionist "ethnocracy" and settler colonialism had brought about the death of the two-state solution, and this meant that the architects of the Oslo accord had inadvertently set the stage for a single, non-sectarian...
Altered Nucleus and Disease

Abstract Pathologists use morphological features of nuclei to distinguish different cell types and to identify abnormal cells within tissues. These features include nuclear size, shape, and structure. Differences in these microscopic properties reflect changes to the biological characteristics of the nucleus, such as alterations to the nuclear envelope and nuclear lamina composition, chromatin organization, and nuclear body assembly. Changes to the cellular microenvironment which alter the structure and mechanical properties of a tissue notably impact nuclear morphology. Several genetic disorders and complex diseases have been linked to altered nuclear architecture and function. This chapter provides an overview of disease-associated nuclear changes (with emphasis on laminopathies and cancer), and discusses current and future therapeutic strategies for the treatment of these diseases.
Stroke survivors' experiences transitioning from hospital to home.

Aims and objectives To investigate the experiences of ischaemic stroke survivors during the transitional period from the hospital through the first 4 weeks after discharge home. Background Ischaemic stroke survivors describe the transition from hospital to home as an important time in their recovery and describe various physical and cognitive concerns early within the recovery period. Adequate transitional care interventions should be informed by such experiences. Design This is a qualitative descriptive study. Method This study used semistructured telephone interviews and an inductive approach to enable thematic analysis of information from 31 persons experiencing an ischaemic stroke. Results Five major themes emerged: (a) the shock of a stroke interrupting a normal day; (b) transition to an unfamiliar home; (c) uncertainty; (d) understanding a new sense of self; and (e) adjusting to a new sense of self. All participants articulated a need to cope with uncertainty and adjusting to a new sense of self. Ischaemic stroke survivors who experienced less uncertainty described that return to their prior daily routine, preventing another stroke, depended on a helpful support system including frequent follow-up and communication with healthcare professionals. Conclusion All ischaemic stroke survivors are at risk for complications during recovery, regardless of stroke severity. This study found that, even after experiencing minimal physical or cognitive symptoms, ischaemic stroke survivors can have difficulty adjusting to life after discharge. Relevance to clinical practice Adjusting to life after a stroke during the first 4 weeks after discharge home is an in individualised experience. For the complex psychosocial and physical needs of ischaemic stroke survivors, nurses can play an important role beyond symptom management by fostering a dynamic relationship through individualised transitional care based on ischaemic stroke survivors experiences.
Numerical Simulation of Axisymmetric Vortex Sheet Roll-Up

The vortex blob method is applied to compute axisynunetric vortex sheet roll-up. An experiment by Didden (1979) of vortex ring formation at the edge of a circular tube is simulated. Numerical results are compared with experimental measurements.
Cytogenetic features of infants less than 12 months of age at diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia: impact of the 11q23 breakpoint on outcome: a report of the Childrens Cancer Group

Cytogenetic analyses of pretreatment bone marrows were performed at local institutions as part of Childrens Cancer Group (CCG) protocol CCG-107 for infants less than 1 year of age with previously untreated acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Cytogenetic analyses from 39 patients (17 males and 22 females) were accepted after review. Several unique cytogenetic features were observed. Twelve patients (31%) had a t(4;11)(q21;q23) and had a significantly shorter event-free survival (EFS) than did the other patients with adequate cytogenetic analyses (P = .009). Five additional patients had an 11q23 breakpoint, not associated with 4q21. When EFS for these 5 patients was compared with that of the t(4;11) patients, even with these small numbers there was a strong, although not significant, suggestion that the t(4;11) patients have a reduced EFS (P = .09), indicating that the specific translocation, t(4;11)(q21;q23), and not an 11q23 breakpoint per se, may be associated with the poor prognosis of these infants. Structural abnormalities were present in 27 of 28 patients with abnormal karyotypes. A new recurring abnormality, t(5;15)(p15:1;q11) or t(5;15)(p15.3;q13), was identified in 3 patients (Arthur et al, Blood 70:274a, 1987 [abstr, suppl 1]). Two females had structural abnormalities involving Xp11, a breakpoint rarely seen in ALL. Fourteen (36%) patients had a single structural abnormality, and 13 (33%) had complex karyotypes. No patients had hyperdiploidy with more than 50 chromosomes. Only normal chromosomes were observed in 11 patients (28%), and their outcome did not differ from patients with abnormal karyotypes. These cytogenetic abnormalities found in the leukemic cells of infants are clearly different from those in older children and adults, and may explain, in part, the unique biologic characteristics of infant ALL.
Cost analysis of combining congenital cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology procedures in an outpatient setting.

BACKGROUND Patients with congenital heart disease require multiple procedures over their lifetime. These procedures increase cost and time commitment. Previous studies in the field of medicine have shown that combining procedures is an effective method to reduce cost and time. There has been no such study to evaluate the cost and efficiency of combining pediatric cardiac procedures. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to compare the cost and time commitment of combined cardiac catheterization (cath) and electrophysiology (EP) outpatient procedures against separate cath and EP procedure. METHODS Outpatient combination procedures performed in the pediatric cardiac cath lab from 2013 to 2016 were matched to a control population of two or three similar single outpatient procedures from 2009 to 2016 for patients of similar age and cardiac anatomy. Procedure duration, recovery duration, length of stay, equipment charges, physician charges, all other hospital charges, and total admission charges were analyzed. The two groups were compared using an unpaired t-test. RESULTS A total of 92 subjects, 32 study subjects and 60 control subjects, were included in this study. Study group procedures had a significantly shorter recovery duration (P = 0.04) and length of stay (P = 0.01). Study group procedure duration trended shorter on average but statistically insignificant (P = 0.20). The total median savings for patients undergoing combined procedures in the study group was $13,181 (interquartile range $423.8-$26710). CONCLUSIONS Combining cath and EP outpatient procedures reduces the time commitment and provides some economic advantage.
Promotion, Performance Rating Granularity, and Decision Spillover Effects

We examine how managers’ consideration of a future promotion decision can influence their subjective evaluation of workers’ past job performance as well as their subsequent promotion decision. We predict that whether such effects manifest depends on the rating granularity (i.e., the number of ratings managers assign to workers) of the performance evaluation system. In our experimental setting, managers first evaluate workers’ past performance and then decide to promote either the worker best at the current job or the worker best suited for promotion. Results indicate that managers evaluate the worker best suited for promotion most favorably under a single-rating system when managers anticipate making a future promotion decision. This in turn increases managers’ likelihood of promoting that worker later, thereby effectively sorting workers to their jobs and mitigating the Peter Principle problem. Our study informs practice of the environmental factors and motivations that influence managers’ subjective evaluations and promotion decisions.
CO2 enrichment and soil type additively regulate grassland productivity

Atmospheric CO2 enrichment usually increases the aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) of grassland vegetation, but the magnitude of the ANPP-CO2 response differs among ecosystems. Soil properties affect ANPP via multiple mechanisms and vary over topographic to geographic gradients, but have received little attention as potential modifiers of the ANPP-CO2 response. We assessed the effects of three soil types, sandy loam, silty clay and clay, on the ANPP response of perennial C3 /C4 grassland communities to a subambient to elevated CO2 gradient over 10 yr in Texas, USA. We predicted an interactive, rather than additive, effect of CO2 and soil type on ANPP. Contrary to prediction, CO2 and soil additively influenced grassland ANPP. Increasing CO2 by 250 μl l-1 increased ANPP by 170 g m-2 across soil types. Increased clay content from 10% to 50% among soils reduced ANPP by 50 g m-2 . CO2 enrichment increased ANPP via a predominant direct effect, accompanied by a smaller indirect effect mediated by a successional shift to increased dominance of the C4 tallgrass Sorghastrum nutans. Our results indicate a large, positive influence of CO2 enrichment on grassland productivity that resulted from the direct physiological benefits of CO2 augmented by species succession, and was expressed similarly across soils of differing physical properties.
Delayed resolution of amitriptyline toxicity secondary to CYP2D6 deficiency.

Dear Editor,A 44-year-old female presented to the emergency department after taking 4.5 g of amitriptyline in a suicide attempt. On presentation, the patient was alert and oriented with normal vita...
Tetra-μ-chloro-1:2κ4Cl;1:3κ4Cl-di­methyl-2κC,3κC-tetra­kis(tetra­hydro­furan)-1κ2O,2κO,3κO-chromium(II)dizinc(II)

The title compound, [CrZn 2 (CH 3 ) 2 Cl 4 (C 4 H 8 O) 4 ], contains a central distorted octahedral Cr atom, located at an inversion center, bound to two tetrahydrofuran ligands and four chloro ligands that bridge to two symmetry-related tetrahedral Zn atoms. The coordination around zinc is completed by methyl and tetrahydrofuran ligands. This structure is compared with a previously reported complex of vanadium, and their differences in metric parameters are explained.
Antagonism of Quorum Sensing Phenotypes by Analogs of the Marine Bacterial Secondary Metabolite 3-Methyl-N-(2′-Phenylethyl)-Butyramide

Quorum sensing (QS) antagonists have been proposed as novel therapeutic agents to combat bacterial infections. We previously reported that the secondary metabolite 3-methyl-N-(2′-phenylethyl)-butyramide, produced by a marine bacterium identified as Halobacillus salinus, inhibits QS controlled phenotypes in multiple Gram-negative reporter strains. Here we report that N-phenethyl hexanamide, a structurally-related compound produced by the marine bacterium Vibrio neptunius, similarly demonstrates QS inhibitory properties. To more fully explore structure–activity relationships within this new class of QS inhibitors, a panel of twenty analogs was synthesized and biologically evaluated. Several compounds were identified with increased attenuation of QS-regulated phenotypes, most notably N-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-phenylpropanamide against the marine pathogen Vibrio harveyi (IC50 = 1.1 µM). These findings support the opportunity to further develop substituted phenethylamides as QS inhibitors.
Two-year clinical outcomes associated with robotic-assisted subthalamic lead implantation in patients with Parkinson's disease.

Few centers have routinely implemented robotic stereotactic systems for deep brain stimulator (DBS) placement. The present study compares clinical outcomes associated with robotic-assisted subthalamic nucleus (STN)-targeted DBS surgery in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) to those of the traditional frame-based method. A retrospective chart review was performed (February 2013–June 2017). Thirty-three patients were implanted using the Cosman–Roberts–Wells (CRW) frame and 27 patients were implanted using the ROSA robot. Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) or UPDRS part III motor scores and levodopa equivalent daily doses (LEDD) were examined preoperatively and at 6, 12, and 24 months of follow-up. Operative times and complication rates were recorded. For the frame-based group, the reduction in the mean MDS-UPDRS part III motor score compared to baseline was 27% both at 6 and 12 months, and 36.7% at 24 months. For the robotic-assisted group, the reduction in the mean motor score from baseline was 17.6% at 6 months, 19% at 12 months and 21.4% at 24 months. The mean LEDD for the frame-based group decreased by 48.7% at 6 months, 56.7% at 12 months, and 29.7% at 24 months. For the robotic-assisted group, the mean LEDD decreased by 42% at 6 months, 45% at 12 months and 50% at 24 months. There were no significant differences in the mean motor scores and the LEDD reduction between the two groups. Operative times tended to be longer for robotic-assisted DBS surgery. Clinical outcomes associated with robotic-assisted surgery are comparable to those with frame-based surgery.
Stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium from patients with age-related macular degeneration exhibit reduced metabolism and matrix interactions

Modeling age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is challenging, because it is a multifactorial disease. To focus on interactions between the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Bruch's membrane, we generated RPE from AMD patients and used an altered extracellular matrix (ECM) that models aged Bruch's membrane. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) were generated from fibroblasts isolated from AMD patients or age-matched (normal) controls. RPE derived from iPSCs were analyzed by morphology, marker expression, transepithelial electrical resistance (TER), and phagocytosis of rod photoreceptor outer segments. Cell attachment and viability was tested on nitrite-modified ECM, a typical modification of aged Bruch's membrane. DNA microarrays with hierarchical clustering and analysis of mitochondrial function were used to elucidate possible mechanisms for the observed phenotypes. Differentiated RPE displayed cell-specific morphology and markers. The TER and phagocytic capacity were similar among iPSC-derived RPE cultures. However, distinct clusters were found for the transcriptomes of AMD and control iPSC-derived RPE. AMD-derived iPSC-RPE downregulated genes responsible for metabolic-related pathways and cell attachment. AMD-derived iPSC-RPE exhibited reduced mitochondrial respiration and ability to attach and survive on nitrite-modified ECM. Cells that did attach induced the expression of complement genes. Despite reprogramming, iPSC derived from AMD patients yielded RPE with a transcriptome that is distinct from that of age-matched controls. When challenged with an AMD-like modification of Bruch's membrane, AMD-derived iPSC-RPE activated the complement immune system.
Heat production from lab-scale enhanced geothermal systems in granite and gabbro

Abstract Lab-scale cold water circulation test results and analysis are presented as a proxy for field-scale heat mining in enhanced/engineered geothermal systems. The cold water circulation tests were conducted in hydraulically stimulated igneous rock blocks heated to a uniform temperature. The test blocks had a five-spot system with one injection well at the center and four producers drilled about 9 cm away from it. Two kinds of igneous rocks (granite and gabbro) with different permeability were tested. Due to the heterogeneity of the rock and the notch at the injection well, different fracture geometries with different number of producers connected by the hydraulic fracture were obtained. The circulation tests illustrate for the first time a number of interesting phenomena in a laboratory setting. The great potential of geothermal energy has been demonstrated by nearly 50W of power produced by the cold water flowing through a hydraulic fracture in a mini-EGS reservoir, yielding a good heat extraction percentage of 6.24%~7.85% after 2000 ml of cold water injection . Also, the cooling effect on the injection pressure and thus the fracture aperture has been clearly observed in the experiments i.e., with continued cold water injection the pressure drops, indicating fracture aperture increase due to thermal stress. In addition, reservoir growth during circulation has been observed based on the AE record and production data. Production well competition has also been observed when multiple producers were connected to the injection well by the induced hydraulic fracture, emphasizing the necessity of proper field management to maximize heat production. The test result indicates that a more “complex” flow path enhances heat production, and early thermal breakthrough and undesirable fracture propagation can be avoided by close monitoring of AE, pressure, and production responses.
Perspectives on oxygen-based coal conversion towards zero-carbon power generation

Abstract Projections made by credible institutions indicate that coal will continue to provide a major fraction of the global electricity mix for many decades to come. Assuming the validity of these projections and building on this likely scenario, this perspective article proposes oxygen-based coal conversion as a sustainable pathway for zero-carbon power generation, albeit not without its own challenges. The century-old tradition of burning coal in air is no longer sustainable. Achieving zero-carbon coal power dictates full capture of CO2 emissions. Unfortunately, renewable power is still far from fully displacing coal-based power despite major gains. Also, renewables are inherently non-dispatchable sources constrained severely by lack of utility-scale electricity storage. Moreover, prospects for total conversion of power generation to natural gas presents its own challenges due to uncertain impacts of hydraulic fracturing on the environment. It is highly likely that we will need both coal and natural gas for electricity production. Accordingly, this article proposes a roadmap that emphasizes rapid transitioning of coal-based (and natural gas-based) power generation from air-based combustion to oxygen-based conversion. The latter excludes nitrogen from entering the process stream and offers easy capture of CO2 to achieve zero-carbon electricity generation with significant savings on water demand.
DEFORMATION INDEX APPLIED TO IMPACT

ABSTRACT Almost three decades ago, Futamura devised the deformation index concept for determining the control parameter for the viscoelastic response of deformed elastomers. We have extended this c...
Machine learning for geophysical characterization of brittleness: Tuscaloosa Marine Shale case study

AbstractBrittleness is one of the most important reservoir properties for unconventional reservoir exploration and production. Better knowledge about the brittleness distribution can help to optimi...
Simulating Tendon Shortening During Flexor Tendon Repair Surgery Using A Biomechanical Model and Robotic Testbed

Current reconstructive hand tendon surgeries are based on clinical experience and cadaver studies. New biomechanical hand models and anatomically correct robotic testbeds provide a potential alternative to surgical trial-and error or cumbersome cadaver studies. We introduce a new index finger biomechanical model and anatomically correct robotic testbed to explore this potential application. The model and testbed are used in developing a novel methodology for simulating the active range of motion outcomes of flexor digitorum profundus repair surgery based on shortening of the tendon that can occur during reconstruction. Simulated and experimental results demonstrate the benefits of using both models and robotic testbeds. Results also support the clinical recommendation of a 10 mm shortening limiting to maintain functionality.
Urban Landscape Heterogeneity Influences the Relationship between Tree Canopy and Land Surface Temperature

Abstract Urban trees play a key role in alleviating elevated summertime land surface temperatures in cities. However, urban landscape influences the capacity of urban trees to mitigate higher temperatures. We propose that both developed land characteristics and tree cover should be considered to accurately estimate the mitigation effects of canopy cover. We subclassified original land cover based on the canopy cover ratio to capture the within-land cover heterogeneity. We selected two coastal cities with different summertime climatic conditions: Seattle, Washington, USA, and Baltimore, Maryland, USA. We used Landsat-based grid cells (30 m × 30 m) as our spatial analytical unit, with corresponding land surface temperature, canopy area, canopy compactness, population size, and National Land Cover Database (NLCD)-based land cover group. We first used grouped boxplots, Kruskal–Wallis H tests, and post-hoc multiple comparison tests to detect the distribution of land surface temperatures by the land cover group. We then introduced statistical models to test the group effects on the relationship between land surface temperatures and canopy cover variables. We found: (1) land surface temperature increases with level of development, (2) land surface temperature decreases with canopy cover level, (3) the magnitude of the mitigation effects from canopy area differs based on development level and current canopy cover, (4) the differing efficacies of canopy area in decreasing land surface temperature follows a nonlinear threshold relationship, and (5) compactness of canopy cover was not significant in reducing the land surface temperature. These findings suggest the importance of considering heterogeneous canopy cover within developed land cover classes in urban heat island research. Tree planting strategies need to consider the nonlinear relationships between tree canopy cover and land surface temperature alongside environmental equity concerns.
Point-of-care Ultrasound to Evaluate Breast Pathology in the Emergency Department.

Author(s): Acuna, Josie; Pierre, Cubby M.; Sorenson, Jacob; Adhikari, Srikar | Abstract: Introduction: As physician-performed point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) becomes more prevalent in the evaluation of patients presenting with various complaints in the emergency department (ED), one application that is significantly less used is breast ultrasound. This study evaluates the utility of POCUS for the assessment of patients with breast complaints who present to the ED and the impact of POCUS on medical decision-making and patient management in the ED.Methods: This was a retrospective review of ED patients presenting with breast symptoms who received a POCUS examination. An ED POCUS database was reviewed for breast POCUS examinations. We then reviewed electronic health records for demographic characteristics, history, physical examination findings, ED course, additional imaging studies, and impact of the POCUS study on patient care and disposition.Results: We included a total of 40 subjects (36 females, 4 males) in the final analysis. Most common presenting symptoms were breast pain (57.5%) and a palpable mass (37.5%).n“Cobblestoning,” ie, dense bumpy appearance, was the most common finding on breast POCUS, seen in 50% of the patients. Simple fluid collections were found in 37.5% of patients.Conclusion: Our study findings illustrate the utility of POCUS in the evaluation of a varietyof breast complaints in the ED.
A new and alternative look at NonLinear Alfv\'enic States

A new formalism for the nonlinear Alfvenic states sustainable in Hall Magnetohydrodynamics is developed in a complete basis provided by the circularly polarized Beltrami Vectors, the eigenstates of linear HMHD. Nonlinear HMHD is, then, reduced to a rather simple looking set of scalar equations from which a model problem of three interacting Beltrami modes is formulated and analytically solved. The triplet interactions span a variety of familiar nonlinear processes leading to a redistribution as well as periodic exchange of energy. The energy exchange processes (whose strength is measured by an energy exchange /depletion time) will, perhaps, play a dominant role in determining the spectral content of an eventual Alfvenic state. All nonlinearities (sensitive functions of the interacting wave vectors) operate at par, and none is dominant over any substantial region of k-space; their intricate interplay prevents a "universal" picture from emerging; few generalizations on the processes that may, for instance, lead to a turbulent state, are possible. However, the theory can definitely claim: 1) the energy tends to flow from lower to higher $k$, and 2) the higher $k_z$ (in the direction of the ambient magnetic field) components of a mode with a given $k$ are depleted/oscillate faster -in some cases much faster. It is noteworthy that the mode coupling is the strongest (with the shortest depletion time) when the participating wave vectors are nearly perpendicular; perhaps, an expected consequence of the curl (cross product) nonlinearities. Numerical simulations will be necessary to help create a fully reliable picture.
Step 4: The People, Process, Law and Court Power

MEF and LAPP provide a means of disaggregating the anonymity and coherency of Court-produced truths and the methods by which knowledge is converted into a truth regime. Court opinions, as expositions of knowledge and truth, establish a corpus of truth, a regime of truth based on knowledge that the Court applies and obtains through the interpretive process. Court opinions, as epistemic constructs, constitute a textual and ideational structure upon which meaning is produced and constitutionalized. By focusing on the sociocultural, economic, political, and ideological factors that inform the process of Court-produced knowledge and truth—and the methodology by which each is effectuated—the chasm betwixt the Court and the realities that contextualize the actual people the Court “serves” is brought to the fore. Uniformity, unity, and conceptual mechanisms anchored in self-contained textual universe of Court discourse, provide the foundation for an objectively configured and constructed discourse.
Detecting Rater Biases in Sparse Rater-Mediated Assessment Networks:

Practical constraints in rater-mediated assessments limit the availability of complete data. Instead, most scoring procedures include one or two ratings for each performance, with overlapping perfo...
Chronic intermittent ethanol during adolescence and adulthood alters dendritic spines in the primary motor and visual cortex in rats.

Abstract Prolonged adolescent binge drinking can disrupt sleep quality and increase the likelihood of alcohol-induced sleep disruptions in young adulthood in rodents and in humans. Striking changes in spine density and morphology have been seen in many cortical and subcortical regions after adolescent alcohol exposure in rats. However, there is little known about the impact of alcohol exposure has on dendritic spines in the same motor and sensory cortices that EEG sleep is typically recorded from in rats. The aim of this study is to investigate whether an established model of chronic intermittent ethanol vapor in rats, that has been demonstrated to disrupt sleep during adolescence (AIE) or adulthood (CIE), also significantly alters cortical dendritic spine density and morphology. To this end, adolescent and adult Wistar rats were exposed to 5 weeks of ethanol vapor or control air exposure. After a 13-day withdrawal, primary motor cortex (M1) and primary/secondary visual cortex (V1/V2) layer V dendrites were analyzed for differences in spine density and morphology. Spines were classified into 4 categories (stubby, long, filopodia, and mushroom) based on the spine length and the width of the spine head and neck. The main results indicate an age-specific effect of AIE exposure decreasing spine density in the M1 cortex compared to age-matched controls. Reductions in the density of M1 long-shaped spine subclassifications were seen in AIE rats, but not CIE rats compared to their air-controls. Irrespective of age, there was an overall reduction produced by ethanol exposure on the density of filopodia and the length of long-shaped spines in V1/V2 cortex as compared to their air-exposed controls. Together, these data add to growing evidence that some cortical circuits are vulnerable to the effects of alcohol during adolescence and begin to elucidate potential mechanisms that may influence brain plasticity following early alcohol use.
Management of the Drug Abusing Patient in the ICU

Substance use is often associated with motor vehicle accidents, falls, drownings, thermal injuries, homicide, and suicide. In the United States half of the trauma beds are occupied by patients involved in alcohol-related traffic accidents. Cocaine and cannabis use place the patient at a higher risk of all types of injuries. Patients who stay in the ICU may develop withdrawal syndromes; these are physiologic responses to abrupt withdrawal or reduction of drug use and complicate the management of these patients.
Levels of Control in the Refractive Development of the Eye: Evidence from Animal Models

Animal models provide useful tools for studying the mechanisms of ocular growth control. What is learned will help clinicians develop more effective treatments for the control and prevention of developmental refractive anomalies. Animal models are being used to study the interactions of genetic and environmental influences on ocular development, the stimuli that guide the development of the eye, and the mechanisms by which eye growth is modulated. In this paper we discuss work from our laboratory and others on the neural basis of ocular growth control. Evidence is presented that further supports the hypothesis that the visual control of eye growth and refractive development occurs on at least two levels, a peripheral mechanism local to the eye and retina, and a higher-level central mechanism possibly involving brain-mediated processes. The loss of the higher level mechanism following optic nerve section results in a reduction in the responsiveness of choroidal and axial growth responses to visual signals. These results suggest that the peripheral mechanism, while capable of responding to visual stimuli, is normally modulated by the higher-level mechanism.
Machine Minds: Frontiers in Legal Personhood

Research is at the point where we might have to confront the possibility of what computer scientists call “strong AI” in the coming years. A strong AI could be intelligent by most reasonable definitions of the word, and possibly have a subjective experience. It stands to reason that we must seriously consider whether such a machine should have its will recognized, protected, and enabled. That is to say, such a sufficiently advanced machine might be said to carry responsibilities, and rights, on its own, as a legal person.This question is wrapped up in significant philosophical and technical questions of acceptability and feasibility. The novelty of this Essay is that it provides a positive reason to grant such rights with a basis in technical law, along with a concrete definition and justification for personhood. The organizing principle this Essay arrives at is: Personhood exists to protect conscious individuals from suffering and allow them exercise their wills, subject to their intelligence.This Essay examines several documents across a variety of fields, as well as historical records. Examples such as corporate law, personhood law, slavery law, and standing law demonstrate that the story of person-hood is a history of grappling with what is fully conscious, and how to allow these consciousness’s to exercise their will and avoid pain. However, because law was made by and for humans, by examining the law surrounding animal welfare and humans in a vegetative state, one finds that the law privileges humanity. Hence, our laws imply that a computer, if it is intelligent enough, should be considered conscious; however, our laws as they are would arbitrarily not provide it personhood simply because it is not made of flesh and blood.
Software piracy: are Robin Hood and responsibility denial at work?

INTRODUCTION Despite the existence of laws and much publicity surrounding software piracy, it is widely believed that software piracy is commonplace (Eining & Christensen, 1991; Simpson, Banerjee, & Simpson, 1994). A recent study (i.e., Business Software Alliance, 1999) confirms that software piracy is increasing, with a 2.5 percent increase in piracy in 1998 over 1997, resulting in $3.2 billion in losses to organizations in the United States and $11 billion worldwide. Yet reasons why such illegal behavior continues to occur are lacking. While some attempts have been made at AACSB-accredited schools of business to incorporate ethics education into business programs, there is no knowledge of such educations relationship to actual behavior, nor is there knowledge on what exactly should be taught. Because previous educational, software-based safeguards, and attempts at raising awareness have failed to stop software piracy, some researchers (e.g., Simpson et al., 1994) believe that only when contributory factors are isolated can appropriate measures be taken to reduce software piracy. In addition, Watson and Pitt (1993) suggest that software piracy research lacks attention to individual factors, important for further understanding of the phenomenon. Various accounts (see Figure 1) have cited reasons for computer abuse (i.e., the unethical use of computers) that includes software piracy. Thus this study, guided by existing et ical decision-making models, looks at these reasons for computer abuse behavior and relates these to individual characteristics in an at-
The efficacy of the 5-HT3 receptor antagonists combined with droperidol for PONV prophylaxis is similar to their combination with dexamethasone. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Purpose The aim of this quantitative systematic review is to compare the efficacy and side effects of combining one of the 5-HT3 receptor antagonists (5-HT) with droperidol or dexamethasone for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) prophylaxis.
Object classification using dictionary learning and RGB-D covariance descriptors

In this paper, we introduce a dictionary learning framework using RGB-D covariance descriptors on point cloud data for performing object classification. Dictionary learning in combination with RGB-D covariance descriptors provides a compact and flexible description of point cloud data. Furthermore, the proposed framework is ideal for updating and sharing dictionaries among robots in a decentralized or cloud network. This work demonstrates the increased performance of 3D object classification utilizing covariance descriptors and dictionary learning over previous results with experiments performed on a publicly available RGB-D database.
Effect of phospholipid substitution on the mobility of spin labels bound to the ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum.

The mobility of spin labels covalently bound to the Ca2+-transport ATPase (ATP phosphohydrolase [EC 3.y.1.3]) was studied by electron spin-resonance spectroscopy in purified ATPase and reconstituted vesicles. The purified ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum of rabbit skeletal muscle was covalently labeled with maleimide spin-labels of different chain length and the phospholipids were exchanged for dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine. The spectrum of the short-chain maleimide spin-label, bound to purified ATPase indicates reduced mobility after substitution of endogenous phospholipids with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine. With the long-chain maleimide derivative no difference was detected in the spectra, measured at 20-35 degrees C temperature before and after substitution with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine. Below 10 degrees C temperature the substitution with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine decreased the mobility of the prove, indicating that the microviscosity of environment in the vicinity of nitroxide groups was influenced by changes in the fatty acid composition. With both short and long chain spin-labels bound to purified ATPase adn sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles the amplitude of weakly immobilized component sharply decreased in media containing 20-50% glycerol. Therefore, the mobility of covalently bound nitroxide group in short or long chain maleimide derivatives is also sensitive to the viscosity of the water phase.
Circumstantial impact of contact on social distance

Despite its century long existence, social distance is still a rare area of investigation in the tourism and hospitality context. In particular, there is a lack of attention on the empirical investigations about the relationship between contact and social distance in host–guest relations in a tourism setting. Hence, the purpose of this study is to determine whether there is such a relationship between social distance and different contact factors (previous visits and close friendships). An on-site survey on tourists and locals at a popular tourist destination, Mugla, in Turkey revealed partial support for these relationships under certain circumstances. Implications and future research suggestions are discussed.
Atmospheric correction for shortwave spectral imagery based on MODTRAN4

A new, state-of-the-art atmospheric correction algorithm for the solar spectral range has been developed based on the MODTRAN4 code. The primary data products are surface reflectance spectra, column water vapor maps and relative surface elevation maps. In addition, a radiance simulation tool, an automated visibility retrieval algorithm and a spectral 'polishing' algorithm are included. Validations of retrievals have been carried out by analyzing data that encompass a variety of atmospheric and surface conditions. Some results and their implications for atmospheric correction and spectroscopy are discussed.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.