cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Introduction to the Issue

For largely serendipitous reasons, much cognitive historiographical research has been pursued by those engaged in the study of Graeco-Roman religions. Throughout much of the early and mid-twentieth centuries, Graeco-Roman religions, along with “primitive” religions, provided major historico-ethnographic sites for theorizing generalizations about religion (Smith 2004: 342). This focus was because Graeco-Roman religions were seen as the background for the origin of the dominant religions of the West, whereas, “primitive” religions were viewed as the backdrops for understanding the origin of religions. Often, these two spheres of religiosity – the Graceo-Roman and the “primitive” – were anecdotally compared, for example, the initiation rites characteristic of both, though no theoretical justification was offered for that comparison (e.g., Pettazoni 1924; Burkert 1897: 102). More recently, these two sites have re-emerged in the context of contemporary cognitive research, the study of “primitive” religions – now referred to as “indigenous” religions – in the context of cognitive anthropology (e.g., Whitehouse 1995), and in the study of Graeco-Roman religions as examples of a more sustained pursuit of a cognitive history of religions. Cognitive historiographical approaches to Graeco-Roman religions have been the focus of a series of recent symposia: at the University of Vermont in 2002 (Whitehouse and Martin 2004), at the XIXth Congress of the International Association of the History of Religions in Tokyo in 2005 (Martin and Pachis 2009), and at Queens University Belfast in 2007 (Martin and Sorensen 2011). More comprehensive cognitive studies of Graeco-Roman religions include Roger Beck’s recent work on The Religion of the Mithras Cult (Beck 2006), Anders Lisdorf’s 2007 PhD thesis at Copenhagen University employing a cognitive approach to Roman divination practices (Lisdorf 2007), Colleen Shantz’s recent study of Paul’s ecstatic experiences in which she has drawn upon neurobiological resources (Shantz 2009) and Hugo Lundhaug’s
An evaluation of contaminated estuarine sites using sediment quality guidelines and ecological assessment methodologies

Toxic contaminants may enter estuarine ecosystems through a variety of pathways. When sediment contaminant levels become sufficiently high, they may impact resident biota. One approach to predict sediment-associated toxicity in estuarine ecosystems involves the use of sediment quality guidelines (ERMs, ERLs) and site-specific contaminant chemistry while a second approach utilizes site-specific ecological sampling to assess impacts at the population or community level. The goal of this study was to utilize an integrated approach including chemical contaminant analysis, sediment quality guidelines and grass shrimp population monitoring to evaluate the impact of contaminants from industrial sources. Three impacted sites and one reference site were selected for study. Grass shrimp populations were sampled using a push-netting approach. Sediment samples were collected at each site and analyzed for metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and pesticides. Contaminant levels were then compared to sediment quality guidelines. In general, grass shrimp population densities at the sites decreased as the ERM quotients increased. Grass shrimp densities were significantly reduced at the impacted site that had an ERM exceedance for chromium and the highest Mean ERM quotient. Regression analysis indicated that sediment chromium concentrations were negatively correlated with grass shrimp density. Grass shrimp size was reduced at two sites with intermediate levels of contamination. These findings support the use of both sediment quality guidelines and site-specific population monitoring to evaluate the impacts of sediment-associated contaminants in estuarine systems.
Consideration of some dilute-solution phenomena based on an expression for the Gibbs free energy

Rigorous expressions based on the Lennard-Jones (6-12) potential, are presented for the Gibbs and Helmholtz free energy of a dilute mixture. These expressions give the free energy of the mixture in terms of the thermodynamic properties of the pure solvent, thereby providing a convenient means of correlating dilute mixture behavior with that of the pure solvent. Expressions for the following dilute binary solution properties are derived: Henry's constant, limiting activity coefficients with their derivatives, solid solubilities in supercritical gases, and mixed second virial coefficients. The Henry's constant expression suggests a linear temperature dependence; application to solubility data for various gases in methane and water shows a good agreement between theory and experiment. In the thermodynamic modeling of supercritical fluid extraction, we have demonstrated how to predict new solubility-pressure isotherms from a given isotherm, with encouraging results. The mixed second virial coefficient expression has also been applied to experimental data; the agreement with theory is good.
The use of algae to control heavy metals in the environment

Aqueous effluents from a lead mining and milling operation located in southeastern Missouri, USA, caused a degradation of stream quality despite treatment by a large tailings pond. The receiving stream was choked with algal mats which accumulated unexpectedly large amounts of manganese, lead and zinc. A wastewater treatment system was designed to utilize algae and benthic macrophytes to remove metals from the tailings pond effluent. The system has proved successful and water quality in the receiving stream has been improved to drinking water standards.
Intermittent photic stimulation. Clinical usefulness of non-convulsive responses ☆

The clinical usefulness of non-convulsive responses induced by intermittent photic stimulation (IPS) was studied in 46 patients whose evaluation included both electroencephalography (EEG) and computerized cranial tomography (CT scan). Three patterns of photic responses were identified and related to background EEG activity and type of lesion seen on CT scan. An asymmetry in photic driving manifested only by a consistent amplitude difference greater than 50% was rarely associated with other EEG changes such as focal slowing or significant asymmetry in the alpha rhythm. In contrast, an asymmetry in development of the photic response correlated well with ipsilateral focal slowing and CT scan evidence of parenchymatous brain disease. Bilateral, symmetrical high amplitude single spikes evoked by individual light flashes were seen only in patients with diffuse encephalopathies. In no patient with structural brain disease as judged by CT scan was an abnormality in IPS the only EEG finding. There was also no apparent relationship between the anatomical site of a focal cerebral lesion and the type of response induced by IPS. Photic stimulation is of limited value in non-epileptic patients. Little clinical significance can be attached to nonconculsive responses in the absence of associated EEG changes which by themselves are generally more informative.
Determination of parent and substituted polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in high-fat salmon using a modified QuEChERS extraction, dispersive SPE and GC-MS

A fast and easy modified QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, rugged and safe) extraction method has been developed and validated for determination of 33 parent and substituted polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in high-fat smoked salmon that greatly enhances analyte recovery compared to traditional QuEChERS procedures. Sample processing includes extraction of PAHs into a solution of ethyl acetate, acetone and isooctane followed by cleanup with dispersive SPE and analysis by GC-MS in SIM mode. Method performance was assessed in spike recovery experiments (500 μg/g wet weight) in three commercially available smoked salmon with 3-11% fat. Recoveries of some 2-, 3- and 5-ring PAHs were improved 50-200% over traditional methods, while average recovery across all PAHs was improved 67%. Method precision was good with replicate extractions typically yielding relative standard deviations <10%, and detection limits were in the low ng/g range. With this method, a single analyst could extract and clean up ≥60 samples for PAH analysis in an 8 h work day.
Expansion of the consultation-liaison psychiatry paradigm at a university medical center: Integration of diversified clinical and funding models

The perspective of the contemporary Consultation-Liason Service (CLS) psychiatrist is increasingly one of consultant to medical and surgical colleagues in models other than inpatient medical and surgical units. Simultaneously, the need for a clinically and educationally robust inpatient CLS persists despite funding pressures. The University of California, Davis Medical Center Department of Psychiatry has made use of creative organizational and financial models to accomplish the inpatient CLS clinical and educational missions in a fiscally responsible manner. In addition, the department has in recent years expanded the delivery of psychiatry consultation-liaison clinical and educational services to other models of care delivery, broadening the role and influence of the CLS. Several of the initiatives described in this paper parallel an overall evolution of the practice of consultation-liaison psychiatry in response to managed care influences and other systems pressures. This consultation-liaison paradigm expansion with diversified sources of funding support facilitates the development of consultation-liaison psychiatry along additional clinical, administrative, research, and educational dimensions. Other university medical centers may consider adaptation of some of the initiatives described here to their institutions.
A return to the pre-1971 intensity level and a 5.6-d modulation for Cyg X-1

A 5-day modulation in the 'high-state' X-ray intensity data obtained by the Ariel V all-sky monitor for November 1975-January 1976 is reported. The light curve decrement (the fraction of the total source emission over one 5-day cycle which is deficient at superior conjunction) is 0.019 plus or minus 0.003, compared with 0.029 plus or minus 0.004 for a similar 5.6-day modulation observed before the April 1975 flare. The results are most easily explained by scattering from ionized material between the two stellar components which extends outside the orbital plane.
Repair of naturally occurring mismatches can induce mutations in flanking DNA

‘Normal’ genomic DNA contains hundreds of mismatches that are generated daily by the spontaneous deamination of C (U/G) and methyl-C (T/G). Thus, a mutagenic effect of their repair could constitute a serious genetic burden. We show here that while mismatches introduced into human cells on an SV40-based episome were invariably repaired, this process induced mutations in flanking DNA at a significantly higher rate than no mismatch controls. Most mutations involved the C of TpC, the substrate of some single strand-specific APOBEC cytidine deaminases, similar to the mutations that can typify the ‘mutator phenotype’ of numerous tumors. siRNA knockdowns and chromatin immunoprecipitation showed that TpC preferring APOBECs mediate the mutagenesis, and siRNA knockdowns showed that both the base excision and mismatch repair pathways are involved. That naturally occurring mispairs can be converted to mutators, represents an heretofore unsuspected source of genetic changes that could underlie disease, aging, and evolutionary change. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.02001.001
Anatomical and pathological findings in hearts from fetuses and infants with cardiac manifestations of neonatal lupus

Objective. The autopsy and clinical information on children dying with anti-SSA/Ro-associated cardiac manifestations of neonatal lupus (cardiac NL) were examined to identify patterns of disease, gain insight into pathogenesis and enhance the search for biomarkers and preventive therapies. Methods. A retrospective analysis evaluating reports from 18 autopsies of cardiac NL cases and clinical data from the Research Registry for Neonatal Lupus was performed. Results. Of the 18 cases with autopsies, 15 had advanced heart block, including 3 who died in the second trimester, 9 in the third trimester and 3 post-natally. Three others died of cardiomyopathy without advanced block, including two dying pre-natally and one after birth. Pathological findings included fibrosis/calcification of the atrioventricular (AV) node, sinoatrial (SA) node and bundle of His, endocardial fibroelastosis (EFE), papillary muscle fibrosis, valvular disease, calcification of the atrial septum and mononuclear pancarditis. There was no association of pathology with the timing of death except that in the third-trimester deaths more valvular disease and/or extensive conduction system abnormalities were observed. Clinical rhythm did not always correlate with pathology of the conduction system, and the pre-mortem echocardiograms did not consistently detect the extent of pathology. Conclusion. Fibrosis of the AV node/distal conduction system is the most characteristic histopathological finding. Fibrosis of the SA node and bundle of His, EFE and valve damage are also part of the anti-Ro spectrum of injury. Discordance between echocardiograms and pathology findings should prompt the search for more sensitive methods to accurately study the phenotype of antibody damage.
Developing a Reporting and Tracking Tool for Nursing Student Errors and Near Misses

Little is known about the extent and types of errors and near misses (ENMs) made by nursing students. In nursing schools, the norm has been a culture of blame in which a student, a faculty member, or both are held accountable for ENMs regardless of the source. However, evidence suggests that a failure to track and trend ENMs and learn from them actually increases the likelihood of more ENMs. To help student nurses become competent nurses, educators need systems and structures that allow trending and analysis of ENMs. Key first steps include creating a mechanism for schools to use in reporting nursing-student ENMs and creating a transparent and blame-free culture. In addition, it will be critical to establish a national database to reflect the occurrence and types of ENMs. The database will provide a baseline of information that will guide faculty members in designing interventions to reduce ENMs. This article describes the issues and challenges encountered in creating an occurrence reporting tool, testing the tool, and establishing a national database for tracking and trending ENMs encountered by nursing students. In addition, this article presents an adaptation of the tested occurrence reporting tool that schools can use while a national database is established.
On the applicability of Internet-mediated research methods to investigate translators’ cognitive behaviour

Experimental research into cognitive processes in translation is often faulted for small sample sizes and the lack of generalisability of findings. Researchers face constraints when identifying and recruiting participants for studies, since the traditional site-bound laboratory imposes geographic limitations on who can potentially participate. Internet-mediated research is a potential solution to this issue, as it expands the size of participant pools and eliminates the need for participant travel. Moreover, different participant variables can be introduced into research projects since scholars are not confined to the local testing area. Keystroke logging in particular is one data collection method that is well suited for Internet-mediated research, yet has not been widely employed in this manner. Here, the literature is reviewed as it relates to Internet-mediated research, with particular emphasis on keystroke logging and translation process research. Specific considerations must be addressed before researchers undertake this type of research project, including the following: the participants themselves; ethics and confidentiality; ecological validity; data security; hardware and software; and the desired measures. Internet-mediated research should be seen as a complement to laboratory studies rather than their replacement.
Experiments on density-gradient anisotropies and scalar dissipation of turbulence in a stably stratified fluid

The anisotropic behaviour of density-gradient fluctuations in stably stratified grid turbulence and the consequences for simplified (isotropic) estimates of scalar dissipation rates χ were experimentally studied in a thermally stratified wind tunnel at moderate Reynolds numbers (Reλ ≃ 20). Strong stable stratifications were attained, with Brunt-Vaisala frequency N as high as 4 rad s−1. The correlation method was used to estimate the mean-square cross-stream and streamwise density gradients. Cross-stream gradients were measured using two cold wires. The mean-square vertical gradients were found to become larger than the streamwise gradients by as much as a factor of 2.2 for the largest dimensionless buoyancy times (Nt = 7). This corresponds to a 40% error in the scalar dissipation estimates based on ∂θ/∂x alone, and assuming the validity of the isotropic relations. Gradient spectral relations show that this buoyancy-induced anisotropy persists at all length scales. Better closure of the scalar variance balance was attained than in previously reported measurements by other researchers. This is attributed to our use of cold-wire temperature sensors having larger length-to-diameter ratio than used in the previous measurements.
String Stability of a Linear Formation Flight Control System

String stability analysis of an autonomous formation flight system was performed using linear and nonlinear simulations. String stability is a measure of how position errors propagate from one vehicle to another in a cascaded system. In the formation flight system considered here, each i(sup th) aircraft uses information from itself and the preceding ((i-1)(sup th)) aircraft to track a commanded relative position. A possible solution for meeting performance requirements with such a system is to allow string instability. This paper explores two results of string instability and outlines analysis techniques for string unstable systems. The three analysis techniques presented here are: linear, nonlinear formation performance, and ride quality. The linear technique was developed from a worst-case scenario and could be applied to the design of a string unstable controller. The nonlinear formation performance and ride quality analysis techniques both use nonlinear formation simulation. Three of the four formation-controller gain-sets analyzed in this paper were limited more by ride quality than by performance. Formations of up to seven aircraft in a cascaded formation could be used in the presence of light gusts with this string unstable system.
Adaptive Evolution of Foundation Kinetochore Proteins in Primates

Rapid evolution is a hallmark of centromeric DNA in eukaryotic genomes. Yet, the centromere itself has a conserved functional role that is mediated by the kinetochore protein complex. To broaden our understanding about both the DNA and proteins that interact at the functional centromere, we sought to gain a detailed view of the evolutionary events that have shaped the primate kinetochore. Specifically, we performed comparative mapping and sequencing of the genomic regions encompassing the genes encoding three foundation kinetochore proteins: Centromere Proteins A, B, and C (CENP-A, CENP-B, and CENP-C). A histone H3 variant, CENP-A provides the foundation of the centromere-specific nucleosome. Comparative sequence analyses of the CENP-A gene in 14 primate species revealed encoded amino-acid residues within both the histone-fold domain and the N-terminal tail that are under strong positive selection. Similar comparative analyses of CENP-C, another foundation protein essential for centromere function, identified amino-acid residues throughout the protein under positive selection in the primate lineage, including several in the centromere localization and DNA-binding regions. Perhaps surprisingly, the gene encoding CENP-B, a kinetochore protein that binds specifically to alpha-satellite DNA, was not found to be associated with signatures of positive selection. These findings point to important and distinct evolutionary forces operating on the DNA and proteins of the primate centromere.
Impact of channel sparsity and correlated eavesdropping on secret key generation from multipath channel randomness

We study secret key generation from reciprocal multipath wireless channels modeled as multiple parallel fading channels. We consider two channel characteristics that heavily impact secret key capacity: channel sparsity and correlation between main and eavesdropper's channels. We propose a joint model to capture the channel sparsity and correlated eavesdropping. For the case without eavesdroppers, we show that at each transmitter SNR γ there is an optimal sparsity 0 ≤ ρopt ≤ 1, which specifies the fraction of non-zero channel coefficients, that yields the maximum secret key capacity. The reduction in secret key capacity due to eavesdropping is due to two sources. First is the overlap between the main and eavesdropper channels, i.e., the pattern of non-zero subchannels common to both. The second is the correlation between the channel coefficients of the overlapping channels. We show that when the power of the training signal is uniformly distributed over the non-zero channels, there is a cutoff SNR γ c below which the secret key rate is zero, but non-zero (and increasing in γ) when γ > γ c . We also show that in the low SNR regime, the optimal input signal is peaky (a non-uniform training signal) by which the secret key capacity is non-zero at all γ > 0.
A continuous surface tension force formulation for diffuse-interface models

We present a new surface tension force formulation for a diffuse-interface model, which is derived for incompressible, immiscible Navier-Stokes equations separated by free interfaces. The classical infinitely thin boundary of separation between the two immiscible fluids is replaced by a transition region of small but finite width, across which the composition of the one of two fluids changes continuously. Various versions of diffuse-interface methods have been used successfully for the numerical simulations of two phase fluid flows. These methods are robust, efficient, and capable of computing interface singularities such as merging and pinching off. But prior studies used modified surface tension force formulations, therefore it is not straightforward to calculate pressure field because pressure includes the gradient terms resulting from the modified surface tension term. The new formulation allows us to calculate the pressure field directly from the governing equations. Computational results showing the accuracy and effectiveness of the method are given for a drop deformation and Rayleigh capillary instability.
Reasoning About Multiple Variables: Control of Variables Is Not the Only Challenge

Thirty fourth-grade students participated in an extended intervention previ- ously successful in fostering skills of scientific investigation and inference, notably control of variables (COV). The intervention was similarly successful for a majority of students in the present study, enabling them to isolate the three causal and two noncausal variables operating in a multivariable system. However, when asked to predict outcomes of various constellations of variable levels, they tended not to take into account the effects of all of the causal variables they had identified. Moreover, they did not adhere to a consistency prin- ciple, i.e., that a factor that produces an effect can be expected to produce the same effect in the future, given similar conditions. These findings suggest that COV is not the only challenge students experience in reasoning about multiple variables. Elementary-school students' mental models of multivariable causality appear to deviate from a normative, scientific model, even after they have mastered that aspect of scientific method having to do with the design of controlled experiments to isolate effects of individual variables. The challenges, beyond COV, that appear to be involved in making prediction judgments in- volving multiple variables warrant attention in the design of curricula to foster development
Surface dangling bonds are a cause of B-type blinking in Si nanoparticles

Exponential blinking statistics was reported in oxidized Si nanoparticles and the switching mechanism was attributed to the activation and deactivation of unidentified nonradiative recombination centers. Using ab initio calculations we predicted that Si dangling bonds at the surface of oxidized nanoparticles introduce defect states which, depending on their charge and local stress conditions, may give rise to ON and OFF states responsible for exponential blinking statistics. Our results are based on first principles calculations of charge transition levels, single particle energies, and radiative and nonradiative lifetimes of dangling bond defects at the surface of oxidized silicon nanoparticles under stress.
Citrate therapy for polycystic kidney disease in rats.

tions to drink, and clearance and survival studies were performed. Results. The GFRs of rats with PKD that consumed KCitr may be a useful model for human autosomal dominant from one month of age were normal at six months of age, while PKD [2‐5], even though the abnormal gene in the rat those of their counterparts on water were about one third of [6] may not correspond to the PKD-1 or PKD-2 genes normal. Long-term KCitr treatment extended the average life that are defective in almost all patients with ADPKD. span of rats with PKD from 10 to 17 months. Compared with normal rats, water-drinking rats with PKD had higher plasma We recently demonstrated that if heterozygous male [citrate], renal cortical [citrate], and fractional excretion of Han:SPRD rats with PKD were provided with a solution citrate, and lower rates of renal citrate consumption, ammonia of potassium citrate/citric acid (abbreviated “KCitr”) to synthesis, and ammonia excretion. Cortical PNH3 was not elevated drink, starting at one month of age, then the glomerular in cystic kidneys. Intake of Na3 citrate/citric acid solution or K3 filtration rate (GFR) was sustained at a normal level and citrate solution, but not ammonium citrate/citric acid solution, prevented a decline in GFR in three-month-old rats with PKD. the kidneys showed less cystic disease when the rats were Conclusions. Rats with PKD show abnormal renal handling three months old [7]. By contrast, littermate rats with of citrate and ammonia. Citrate salts that have an alkalinizing PKD that drank tap water had a GFR one half of normal, effect preserve GFR and extend survival. large kidney cysts, and extensive renal interstitial disease. The present study had two purposes: (1) to ascertain whether the benefits of KCitr therapy would be Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease sustained beyond three months, and (2) to examine the (ADPKD) is an inherited disorder that afflicts more than mechanism of this beneficial effect. 500,000 people in the United States alone and millions To assess the effectiveness of KCitr administration more worldwide. This disease is accompanied by the for- beyond three months of age, we treated Han:SPRD rats mation and enlargement of numerous fluid-filled epithelial with KCitr for longer times in two sets of experiments. sacs (cysts) in both kidneys and eventual development First, we treated rats, starting at the age of one month, of renal failure. There is currently no specific treatment and measured renal function at six months of age. Secto halt or slow the progression of renal failure in patients ond, we treated rats from the age of one month until their with PKD [1]. deaths to see whether this treatment prolonged survival. In 1991, Kaspareit-Rittinghausen, Deerberg, and Wcislo To gain some insight into the mechanism of KCitr discovered a mutant strain of Sprague-Dawley rats with therapy, we examined several parameters. First, we measured blood and urine pH values to determine whether KCitr intake affected these variables. Second, we hy
Surface morphology control of Transparent Conducting Oxide layers for improved light trapping using wafer grating and feedback control

Abstract This work first introduces a kinetic Monte-Carlo simulation model for a two-species thin film deposition process on a grated (patterned) wafer, and then utilizes a model predictive controller, which manipulates a spatially distributed deposition rate, to produce thin films whose surface morphology has a structure that improves light trapping. This approach to thin film surface morphology control can be applied to many deposition processes, and in particular, in the context of Transparent Conducting Oxide (TCO) thin film manufacturing processes used in thin film solar cells where it is desirable to produce thin films with precisely tailored surface morphology. Specifically, a two species thin film deposition process involving atom adsorption, surface relaxation and surface migration is considered and is modeled on a large-scale lattice (lattice size=40,000) via kinetic Monte-Carlo methods and aggregate surface roughness and slope are used to describe the surface morphology. Subsequently, multiple sets of simulations are carried out to understand the process dynamics dependence on wafer grating parameters, such as magnitude and period of grating, and other process parameters, such as temperature and deposition rate. From these simulations, it is concluded that a spatially distributed deposition rate profile is necessary to be utilized across the lattice in order to induce desirable surface morphology at light wavelength spatial scales that lead to desired thin film solar cell performance. Then, an Edwards–Wilkinson-type equation is utilized to predict the surface evolution and forms the basis for the design of a predictive feedback controller. The model parameters of the Edwards–Wilkinson equation are identified from kinetic Monte-Carlo open-loop simulations. Analytical solutions of the expected surface roughness and surface slope at the visible light wavelength spatial scale are obtained by solving the Edwards–Wilkinson equation and are used in the predictive controller formulation and in the control action calculation. The controller is applied to the kinetic Monte-Carlo simulation of the deposition process taking place on a sinusoidal grated wafer. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed controller, wafer grating and patterned actuator design successfully regulate aggregate surface roughness and slope to desirable set-point values at the end of the deposition.
Doubly stochastic matrices over arbitrary vector spaces and the Birkhoff theorem

Abstract Doubly stochastic matrices are defined which have entries from an arbitrary vector space V. The extreme points of this convex set of matrices are studied, and convex subsets of V are identified for which these extreme matrices are of a permutation matrix type, i.e. for which a Birkhoff theorem holds.
Agent-neutral deontology

According to the “Textbook View,” there is an extensional dispute between consequentialists and deontologists, in virtue of the fact that only the latter defend “agent-relative” principles—principles that require an agent to have a special concern with making sure that she does not perform certain types of action. I argue that, contra the Textbook View, there are agent-neutral versions of deontology. I also argue that there need be no extensional disagreement between the deontologist and consequentialist, as characterized by the Textbook View.
Direct blind multiuser detection for CDMA in multipath without channel estimation

We consider the blind multiuser detection problem for asynchronous DS-CDMA systems operating in a multipath environment. Using only the spreading code of the desired user, we first estimate the column vector subspace of the channel matrix by multiple linear prediction. Then, zero-forcing detectors and MMSE detectors with arbitrary delay can be obtained without explicit channel estimation. This avoids any channel estimation error, and the resulting methods are therefore more robust and more accurate. Corresponding batch algorithms and adaptive algorithms are developed. The new algorithms are extremely near-far resistant. Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of these methods.
Flow Structure of an Inclined Jet in Crossflow

The velocity and turbulence fields associated with a streamwise 45° inclined jet in a crossflow are investigated in three dimensions. Using Stereo-PIV data, full 3D rendering of the 3-component velocity field and turbulent characteristics are achieved and used to study the near field flow structure of the jet flow. A two dimensional vortex detection algorithm is also used to further assess the vortical structures in the flow.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Cross-sectional area and volume compliance of porcine left coronary arteries

We have determined the cross-sectional area (CSA) compliance of the first several generations of pig coronary arteries and the volume compliance of the coronary arterial tree (vessels >0.5 mm in di...
Application of Numerical Models in Air Quality Management

Numerical models have been widely used to solve problems with complex systems.Earth atmosphere is such a system that numerical models have been established to simulate its major physical and chemical processes.The application of numerical models in air quality management and environmental regulatory decision making was investigated.The modeling mechanisms and computational algorithms of three types of air quality models were intensively analyzed and comprehensively compared.In particular,emphasis has been placed on one of the most widely used 3D grid model,the Community Multiscale Air Quality(CMAQ) model,by detailing its governing equations,model structure and the improvements in the newly released version,CMAQ 5.0.The advanced sensitivity analysis module of the CMAQ model was discussed,focusing on its implications to emission control strategy evaluation and decision making.One major contribution of this work was the study of the limitations of present air quality models and three innovative solutions for future model improvements.
Sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor )

Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) targeting immature embryo explants is a route to introduce transgenic alleles into the crop. The protocol requires maintenance of quality stock plants under greenhouse conditions for a constant supply of immature embryo explants. This is typically carried out by a regular sowing of seeds, minimal use of pesticides, and monitoring of plants to document pollen dispersal and bagging of heads. The time frame from explant inoculation to establishment of a primary transgenic event in the greenhouse typically ranges from 4 to 6 months. Seed set in the primary transformants is comparable to greenhouse-grown stock plants, with the majority of the transgenic alleles being inherited as a single functional locus.
Assessing Parental Readiness to Change: A Psychometric Evaluation of the READI-SF in a Community Sample

Engagement in behavioral parent training programs continues to be a barrier to service delivery. Parental readiness is an important construct for understanding parental engagement in parent training services, as these programs place a high level of action-oriented demands on caregivers. The present study examines the performance of one parental readiness measure, the Readiness, Efficacy, Attributions, Defensiveness, and Importance Scale—Short Form (READI-SF) in a community-based sample. Participants included 103 families of children ages three to seven recruited from an urban charter school. Mothers completed an abbreviated version of the READI as well as indices of child disruptive behavior and a second measure of parental readiness. The psychometric properties and factor structure of the READI-SF are explored as well as indices of reliability and validity. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a three-factor model of readiness to change, treatment readiness, and perceived importance of the problem. Analyses also supported the validity and clinical utility of the measure, as READI-SF scores were found to predict attendance at a one-time parenting group. Lastly, the study examines the relationship between parental readiness and child disruptive behavior. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
40-slice multidetector CT: is MRI still necessary for cervical spine clearance after blunt trauma?

We have recently demonstrated that 16-slice multidetector CT (MDCT) is insufficient for cervical spine (CS) clearance in patients with unreliable examinations after blunt trauma. The purpose of this study was to determine if a negative CS CT using 40-slice MDCT is sufficient for ruling out CS injury in unreliable blunt trauma patients or if MRI remains necessary for definitive clearance. In addition, we sought to elucidate the frequency by which MRI alters treatment in patients with a negative CS CT who have a reliable examination with persistent clinical symptoms. The trauma registry was used to identify all patients with blunt trauma who had a negative CS CT on admission using 40-slice MDCT and a subsequent CS MRI during their hospitalization from July 2006 to July 2007. Two hundred thirteen patients were identified. Overall, 24.4 per cent patients had abnormal MRIs. Fifteen required operative repair; 23 required extended cervical collar; and 14 had collars removed. A total of 8.3 per cent of patients with an unreliable examination and 25.6 per cent of reliable patients had management changed based on MRI findings. Overall, MRI changed clinical practice in 17.8 per cent of all patients. Despite newer 40-slice CT technology, MRI continues to be necessary for CS clearance in patients with unreliable examinations or persistent symptoms.
Onset of Strain Localization in Fiber Reinforced Composites Subjected to Plane Stress Loading

The main objective of this study was to find analytical solutions for the onset of strain localization in fiber reinforced composites subjected to plane stress loading. In particular, elastic multidirectional fibers are embedded into an elastic-plastic matrix. A macroscopic tangent stiffness tensor of the fiber-reinforced composite is obtained by consistently homogenizing the contribution of fibers in a cylindrical representative volume element. Upon deriving analytical solutions their properties are further illustrated on the example of Drucker–Prager model. Results show that fibers decrease the critical hardening modulus, thus inhibiting the onset of strain localization. The main fiber parameters that control the stress level at the inception of strain localization are their volumetric content and their stiffness modulus.
A 6μW/MHz charge buffer with 7fF input capacitance in 65nm CMOS for non-contact electropotential sensing

Capacitive non-contact electric field sensing is a prime modality for signal detection and communication in a variety of contexts ranging from bio-potential measurements and proximity sensing to body centered communication and human computer interaction. Although recent developments in the space of wearable sensors have greatly expanded the sensory capability, they simultaneously place more stringent requirements on the front-end. Thus, low-noise power efficient front-ends that can demonstrate low input parasitic capacitances can accelerate the adoption of sensing and communication technologies that exploit this form of capacitive coupling. To this end, we present results from a 193μm2, 6μW/MHz, unity-gain, charge buffer, fabricated in 65nm CMOS for use in electric field sensing.
Clinical Correlations of EEG Midline Spikes

The frequency, clinical characteristics and outcome of children with isolated midline spikes in the EEG, and comparison of those with and without epilepsy, were analyzed by researchers at Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA.
Peptide-functionalized reduced graphene oxide as a bioactive mechanically robust tissue regeneration scaffold

Bioactive, synthetic materials represent next-generation composites for tissue regeneration. Design of contemporary materials attempts to recapitulate the complexities of native tissue; however, few successfully mimic the order in nature. Recently, graphene oxide (GO) has emerged as a scaffold due to its potential for bioactive functionalization and long-range order instilled by the self-assembly of graphene sheets. Chemical reduction of GO results in a more compatible material with enhanced properties but compromises the ability to functionalize the graphenic backbone. However, using Johnson–Claisen rearrangement chemistry, functionalization is achieved that is not liable to reduction. From reduced Claisen graphene, we polymerized short homopeptides from α-amino acid N-carboxyanhydride monomers of glutamate and lysine to result in functionalized graphenes (pGlu-rCG and pLys-rCG) that are cytocompatible, degradable, and bioactive. Exposure to NIH-3T3 fibroblasts and RAW 264.7 macrophages revealed that the materials are cytocompatible and do not alter important sub-cellular compartments. Powders were hot pressed to form mechanically stiff (E′: 41 and 49 MPa), strong (UCS: 480 and 140 MPa), and tough (UT: 2898 and 584 J m−3 × 104) three-dimensional constructs (pGlu-rCG and pLys-rCG, respectively). Overall, we report a robust chemistry and processing strategy for facile bioactive functionalization of compatible, reduced Claisen graphene for three-dimensional biomedical applications. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Allergen Control for College and University Dining Service

This chapter describes best available recommendations for establishing policies to manage food allergens and gluten on college campuses. Providing safe and satisfying options to students with food allergies, celiac disease, and other dietary requirements is crucial as incoming students eat the majority of their meals in campus dining facilities. This requires the collaboration of multiple departments and staff to ensure that students with dietary concerns know about available resources on campus and can get the help they need. Tracking ingredients and allergens is essential and requires the diligence of dining staff at all stages of the food operation to ultimately deliver accurate information to consumers. Policies and solutions will be highly variable depending on the school’s resources and ability to execute the procedures listed here.
Highly Proton Conducting Polyelectrolyte Membranes with Unusual Water Swelling Behavior Based on Triptycene-containing Poly(arylene ether sulfone) Multiblock Copolymers.

Multiblock poly(arylene ether sulfone) copolymers are attractive for polyelectrolyte membrane fuel cell applications due to their reportedly improved proton conductivity under partially hydrated co...
Pathology and Staging of Rectal Cancer

Treatment of rectal cancer requires multidisciplinary collaboration. Proper reporting and staging of rectal cancer specimens is indispensable for the management of rectal cancer. The work of pathologist over the years has substantially changed from merely providing an initial diagnosis and pathological staging to detailed evaluation of prognostic factors and molecular markers that optimize treatment, as well as evaluate treatment response. Currently, the AJCC TNM staging system is the most accepted staging system worldwide. It is necessary to adopt standard protocols for uniform staging and reporting of rectal cancer.
Review of Complex Numbers

The following exercises summarize the definition and elementary algebraic features of the complex numbers.
The dynamic nature of the conserved tegument protein UL37 of herpesviruses

In all herpesviruses, the space between the capsid shell and the lipid envelope is occupied by the unique tegument layer composed of proteins that, in addition to structural roles, play many other roles in the viral replication. UL37 is a highly conserved tegument protein that has activities ranging from virion morphogenesis to directional capsid trafficking to manipulation of the host innate immune response and binds multiple partners. The N-terminal half of UL37 (UL37N) has a compact bean-shaped α-helical structure that contains a surface region essential for neuroinvasion. However, no biochemical or structural information is currently available for the C-terminal half of UL37 (UL37C) that mediates most of its interactions with multiple binding partners. Here, we show that the C-terminal half of UL37 from pseudorabies virus UL37C is a conformationally flexible monomer composed of an elongated folded core and an unstructured C-terminal tail. This elongated structure, along with that of its binding partner UL36, explains the nature of filamentous tegument structures bridging the capsid and the envelope. We propose that the dynamic nature of UL37 underlies its ability to perform diverse roles during viral replication.
Understanding the Dynamics of Diffusion in the Success and Failure of Democratization and Development in Africa

In a recent paper, we argued that diffusion processes are far more important in making sense of possible relationships between democracy and economic growth than most contemporary cross-national studies recognize. Using regional cross-country growth regressions for Sub-Saharan Africa and East Asia, we found very different relationships between democracy and economic growth. In East Asia, we found the shift from developmental autocracy to democracy was growth enhancing while in Africa the shift to democracy had no impact on growth. We argued that most existing studies overemphasize within-country causes of both development and democracy and pay insufficient attention to external ones. Focusing on interactions and diffusion, rather than the classical assumptions of statistical independence and state sovereignty, the diffusion hypothesis stresses the influence of neighbors, powerful states in the world system, and international institutions on smaller, more vulnerable ones. African states, in particular, are highly dependent upon others for primary commodity trade, military protection, and economic aid. When a large state or institution puts pressure on a weaker state to change its economic policies or political institutions and makes assistance contingent on meeting specific conditions, it can be hard to resist. Our analysis here, rather than simply asserting that diffusion matters, examines individual states such as Benin, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique and Rwanda to identify specific diffusion processes impacting on their democratization and development.
Celiac plexus block as a diagnostic tool in suspected pediatric median arcuate ligament syndrome

We report the use of celiac plexus block (CPB) as a diagnostic aid in the evaluation of median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) in a pediatric patient. MALS is a rare cause of severe, debilitating, abdominal postprandial pain associated with nausea, vomiting, occasional diarrhea, unintentional weight loss, and abdominal bruit. MALS is a diagnosis of exclusion, after multiple investigations. This is the first case report where CPB was used to confirm candidacy for corrective surgery in the pediatric population and has served as the cornerstone in diagnosis of MALS.