cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Technical note: design and validation of an open-source library of dynamic reference frames for research and education in optical tracking

Purpose: Dynamic reference frames (DRFs) are a common component of surgical tracking systems, but there is a limited number of commercially available, valid tool designs, presenting a limitation to researchers in image-guided surgery and other communities. This work presents the development and validation of a large, open-source library of DRFs for passive optical tracking systems. Methods: Ten groups of DRF designs were generated according to an algorithm based on intra- and inter-tool design constraints. Validation studies were performed using a Polaris Vicra tracker (NDI) to compare the performance of each DRF in group A to a standard commercially available reference tool, including: tool-tip pivot calibration and measurement of fiducial registration error (FRE) on a computercontrolled bench Results: The resulting library of DRFs includes 10 groups - one with 10 DRFs and nine with 6. Each group includes one tool geometrically equivalent to a common commercially available DRF (NDI #8700339). Fiducial registration error (FRE) was 0.15 ± 0.03 mm, indistinguishable from the reference. Conclusions: The library of custom DRF designs perform equivalently to common, commercially available reference DRFs and present a multitude of distinct, simultaneously-trackable DRF designs. The open-source library contains files suitable to 3D printing as well as tool definition files ready to download for research purposes.
Lower Fasted‐State but Greater Increase in Muscle Protein Synthesis in Response to Elevated Plasma Amino Acids in Obesity

Objective Obesity alters protein metabolism in skeletal muscle, but consistent evidence is lacking. This study compared muscle protein synthesis in adults with obesity and in lean controls in the fasted state and during an amino acid infusion. Methods Ten subjects with obesity (age: 36 ± 3 years; BMI: 34 ± 1 kg/m2 ) and ten controls (age: 35 ± 3 years; BMI: 23 ± 1 kg/m2 ) received an infusion of L-[2,3,3,4,5,5,5,6,6,6-2 H10 ]leucine (0.15 μmol/kg fat-free mass/min) to measure muscle protein synthesis after an overnight fast and during amino acid infusion. Results Despite greater muscle mammalian target of rapamycin phosphorylation (P ≤ 0.05), fasted-state mixed-muscle and mitochondrial protein synthesis were lower in subjects with obesity (P ≤ 0.05). However, the change in mixed-muscle protein synthesis during the amino acid infusion was 2.7-fold greater in subjects with obesity (P ≤ 0.05), accompanied by a greater change in S6 kinase-1 phosphorylation (P ≤ 0.05). The change in mitochondrial protein synthesis did not differ between groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions Adults with obesity have reduced muscle protein synthesis in the fasted state, but this response is compensated for by a greater change in overall muscle protein synthesis during amino acid infusion.
Lean color characteristics of bullock and steer beef

Twelve young bulls and 12 steers were slaughtered and the carcasses were fabricated at 48 h postmortem. Top rounds, bottom rounds, and rib eyes were vacuum-packaged and stored at 0 degrees C until 21 d postmortem. After subprimal storage, steaks were removed from each cut and displayed under simulated retail conditions for 3 d. Consumer panelists (n = 110) showed little difference in buying preference for top round, bottom round, and rib eye steaks from steers vs bullocks. Also, consumer panelists could not detect color differences between steaks from steers and bullocks. Experienced panelists (n = 6) detected brighter (P less than .05) muscle color for top round and rib eye steaks from steers but detected no difference in muscle color of bottom round steaks from bullocks and steers. Generally, overall desirability scores favored steaks from steer carcasses. This was particularly true of rib eye steaks. Sex-class of carcass did not affect aerobic plate counts of top round, bottom round, or rib eye steaks either before or after 3 d of retail display. Muscle pH was lower for top round and rib eye steaks from steer carcasses; however, the magnitude of this difference was not large enough to affect retail display stability. Muscle pH of bottom round steaks was not affected by sex-class. Although experienced panelists could detect differences in visual appearance of beef retail cuts from steers and bullocks, consumer panelists did not show a clear purchase preference for steer vs bullock beef. These data suggest that beef retail cuts from bullocks are acceptable in visual appearance.
Use of Proxies and Informants

A proxy or informant is an individual who provides reports on behalf of, or about, a study participant. Proxies are essential in studies of older adults for minimizing selection bias and preserving external validity. Important items to consider when designing studies that will use proxies include determining the wording of questions, determining how the proxies will be selected, determining the proxy perspective, and selecting appropriate analytical methods. Future research directions on the use of proxies include the development of new analytical methods. In summary, the use of proxies should be thoughtful, well-documented, reported in results, and—wherever possible—assessed for bias in the populations and domains that are utilized in the studies.
Regulation of Cardiac ATP-Sensitive K + Channels

During myocardial ischemia, net cellular K+ loss rapidly leads to extracellular K+ loss rapidly leads to extracellular ([K+]o) accumulation, reaching values as high as 18 mM within 10 minutes (Kleber, 1984). [K+]o accumulation of this magnitude has profound effects on the electrophysiological properties of the ischemic region, and is a key factor leading to the development of lethal ventricular arrhythmias (Janse & Wit, 1989), the major cause of death due to coronary artery disease. The major cause of net cellular K+ loss in this setting is an increase in K+ efflux, rather than a decrease in K+ influx due to suppression of the Na pump (Rau et al, 1978; Kleber, 1983). However, the mechanism of increased K+ efflux is not yet resolved. The two major hypotheses are activation of K+ channels, such as ATP-sensitive K+ (K.ATP) channels (Noma, 1983), Na+-activated K+ channels (Kameyama et al, 1984), or arachidonic acid-sensitive K+ channels (Kim & Clapham, 1989), and K+ efflux coupled to anion (lactate or Pi) efflux (Kleber, 1984). Since their discovery by Noma (1983), K.ATP channels, which open when cytosolic ATP levels fall below a critical threshold, have seemed a very attractive candidate to explain increased K+ efflux and shortening of the action potential duration (APD) during myocardial ischemia and hypoxia. However, in excised membrane patches these channels are half-maximally suppressed by 25–100 µM ATP (Noma, 1983; Findlay, 1988; Nichols & Lederer, 1990), whereas in the intact heart cytosolic [ATP], normally about 5–10 mM, falls only by 25–50% during the first 10 minutes of ischemia or hypoxia (Rovetto et al, 1973).
Restoring Purpose in Behavior

The dominant paradigm in the study of behavior today is the linear causation paradigm. This paradigm, inspired by classical physics, assumes that causes precede effects, that the behavior of organisms is caused by antecedent events inside and outside the organism, and that future states such as goals and purposes cannot possibly cause behavior. It is the basis of the general linear model in psychology and the input/output analysis in neuroscience. But linear causation does not apply to any control system with negative feedback. Here I shall argue that organisms are collections of such negative feedback systems that control their perceptual inputs. The chief difference between the behavior of living organisms and that of non-living things is the presence of control. Rather than the effect of some prior cause, behavior is the observable manifestation of control in teleological systems that act on the environment to make inputs match their internal reference values. The previous rejection of control theory in the behavioral sciences was largely based on a misunderstanding of the principles of negative feedback control. I discuss the types of behavioral control enabled by the hierarchical organization and the experimental method for testing the controlled variable.
Effectiveness of a Web-based Course in Facilitating the Integration of Technology Into Early Childhood Curricula.

Although technology is available and used in early childhood classrooms, little is known about what early childhood teachers believe about the use of technology and how technology is integrated into early childhood curricula. This study was designed to (a) determine the beliefs of early childhood teachers about technology integration into early childhood curricula and (b) describe the extent to which early childhood teachers integrate technology in their early childhood curricula. The participants included 39 prekindergarten teachers who volunteered to participate in a technology integration project. The treatment group accessed a Web-based technology integration training program and participated in two classroom observations, along with completing an attitudinal questionnaire pretest and posttest. The Prekindergarten Web-based Technology Integration Training included four modules each expanding the following themes: (a) national and state standards and guidelines for technology; (b) setting up a computer center; (c) integrating technology; (d) using the digital camera. The control group participated in two classroom observations without the benefit of the Web-based technology integration training program and completed the attitudinal questionnaire pretest and posttest. Results indicate that Prekindergarten teachers believe that technology can enhance a child's learning, but there was no statistically significant difference between the control and the treatment group.
THE EFFECT OF BRACING AND BALANCE TRAINING ON ANKLE SPRAIN INCIDENCE AMONG ATHLETES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW WITH META-ANALYSIS.

Background Ankle sprains are common musculoskeletal injuries in the athletic population that have been addressed with prevention strategies that include bracing and balance training. Many authors have examined ankle sprain incidence after bracing or balance training in athletes at different levels of competition and in various sports. No systematic review has analyzed the results of both interventions.
Satellite DNA and cytogenetic evolution. DNA quantity, satellite DNA and karyotypic variations in kangaroo rats (genus Dipodomys).

The genusDipodomys (kangaroo rats) exhibits major interspecies variations in the proportions of highly reiterated satellite DNA sequences in the genome as well as in the chromosome number and the proportions of uni-armed and bi-armed chromosomes. For nearly all of the approximately 22 species of the genus and several subspecies, liver DNA was distributed in neutral CsCl buoyant density gradients into four fractions: principal DNA (1.698 g/ml), intermediate-density DNA (1.702 g/ml), MS satellite (1.707 g/ml) and HS (heavy) satellites (1.713 g/ml). The total nuclear DNA content of diploid liver cells measured in eleven species by quantitative cytophotometry, ranged from 6.9 to 10.9 pg. These data were correlated with known features of the karyotypes of individual species. The salient findings were: (1) that interspecies variations in diploid chromosome number cluster at 52–54, 60–64 and 70–72 (2) that high total nuclear DNA was associated with high chromosome number, and with relatively large amounts of satellite DNA (3) that a high ratio of HS satellites to intermediate-density DNA was generally correlated with a predominance of metacentric and submetacentric chromosomes (high fundamental number). The relationships of satellite DNA to karyotype structure reveal a new level of hierarchy in the genome that appears capable of exerting global control over environmental adaptation and the evolution of new species. This mechanism is consistent with recent hypotheses that changes in the macro-structure of the genome are more important than point mutations in facilitating the rapid phases of animal evolution.
Distributed control for large-scale plug-in electric vehicle charging with a consensus algorithm

Abstract As the development of plug-in-electric vehicles (PEVs) accelerates, the effective integration of large-scale PEVs with power grid becomes an urgent problem for utilities and PEV users. Mainly considering grid side preference, this paper proposes a distributed control method with a consensus algorithm to deal with large-scale PEV charging coordination. The objectives of the proposed coordination strategy are: minimizing the charging power loss and maximizing the available PEV power for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) services. The incremental cost functions are formulated for these objectives. The graph theory is applied to specify the communication network for PEVs. An interaction rule, the consensus algorithm is applied to realize the local information updating and external information exchanging among neighboring PEVs. A variable-size stochastic matrix is defined to specify the communication topology among PEVs, as well as guarantee the convergence of the consensus targets. The simulation results show that, with limited communication, the large-scale PEV charging/discharging can be efficiently coordinated to reduce total charging power loss or provide V2G service with maximum available PEV power. Meanwhile the PEV charging requirements specified by drivers can be satisfied. In addition, the convergence of the proposed distributed consensus algorithm can always be guaranteed upon random PEV departures.
Magnetic Resonance Elastography in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Interobserver Agreement for Liver Stiffness Measurement with Manual and Automated Methods.

Rationale and Objective Primary sclerosing cholangitis, a chronic liver disease causes heterogeneous parenchymal changes and fibrosis. Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) with magnetic resonance Elastography (MRE) may be affected by this heterogeneous distribution. We evaluated interobserver agreement of LSM in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) with manual and automated methods to study the influence of heterogeneous changes. Materials and Methods A total of 79 consecutive patients with PSC who had a liver MRI and MRE formed the study group. Three readers with 1–3 years’ experience in MRE and a MRE expert (11 years’ experience) independently performed LSM. Each reader manually drew free hand (fROI) and average (aROI) on stiffness maps. Automatic liver elasticity calculation (ALEC) was used to generate automated LSM. The expert fROI was the reference standard. Correlation analysis and absolute intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis was performed. Results LSM data of 79 livers and 315 sections were evaluated. There was excellent ICC between expert and reader fROIs (0.989, 95% confidence interval, and 0.985–0.993) and aROIs (0.971, 95% confidence interval, and 0.953–0.983) and ALEC (0.972, 0.957–0.982) with fROI performing better. The areas measured with fROIs and ALEC had moderate ICC with Expert fROI (0.64 and 0.56, respectively) whereas aROI area had a poor ICC of 0.12. Comparison of multiple methods showed significant differences in LSM between expert fROI and aROI of two readers and no significant differences for fROIs of all three readers. Conclusion LSM with MRE in PSC patients shows excellent interobserver agreement with both fROI and aROI methods with better performance with fROI. fROI may therefore be preferred for LSM measurements in PSC.
Hypoxia signaling and immune infiltration in a presurgical trial of sunitinib in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

e16115Background: Presurgical clinical trial design allow for pharmacodynamically relevant tissue collection that can inform regarding drivers of tumor biology. An unmet need is the ability to iden...
Flexible and Multipurpose Data Acquisition System Design and Architecture for a Multi-force Testing Facility

Testing facilities that combine simultaneous forces on test articles, such as the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Combined Environment Acoustic Chamber (CEAC), require a data acquisition system that is both robust, flexible, and able to record data at different acquisition rates and store the data separately and simultaneously. This paper will provide an overview of how the Air Force Research Laboratory, Structural Dynamics Lab designed their data acquisition architecture using National Instruments PXIe model hardware and LabVIEW software interface to meet the current and future technical requirements for a flexible combined environment data acquisition system.
Uncertainties in Quantifying Source-Receptor Relationships for Atmospheric Acids

Computer simulation models which attempt to quantify the contribution of States and Provinces to atmospheric sulfur deposition at ecologically sensitive receptor locations are being developed by several investigators. There are many assumptions inherent to state-of-the-art acid deposition models which may limit their application for predicting changes due to emission control strategies. This paper addresses the variations in source-receptor relationships which one might expect due to (1) year-to-year variations in meteorological conditions and (2) spatially inhomogeneous gas-phase conversion of SO2 to SO 4 = . The variations in source-receptor relationships predicted by a regional-scale acid deposition model using observed winds and precipitation for the years 1978 to 1980 are discussed. The variations in these relationships are found to vary substantially at some receptors from year-to-year. The greatest variations generally occur between receptors and nearby States.
On the Convergence of Dynamic Iterations in Terms of Model Parameters

We investigate the influence of the parameters of given systems of ordinary differential equations on the propagation of errors introduced by dynamic iterations applied to the systems. We have derived formulas for the errors and concluded that if the equations are reordered in line with the parameters, then the convergence of the resulting dynamic iterations can be sped up. The theoretical results confirm numerical experiments.
Recorded Sounds and Auditory Media

A widespread view among philosophers and scientists is that recorded sounds and assisted hearing differ fundamentally from natural sounds and direct hearing. It is commonly claimed, for example, that the sounds we hear over the phone are not sounds emitted by the voice of our interlocutor, but the sounds reproduced by the phone’s loudspeaker. According to this view, hearing distant sounds through communication and audio equipment is at best indirect and at worst illusory. In what follows, I shall reject these claims and argue in favor of a transparent view of auditory media, including radio, telephone, phonograph, etc. According to this approach, the great gift of Scott de Martinville and Edison is not to have invented devices able to reproduce vanished sounds but rather to have created technological instruments literally able to store and transmit them to future and distant listeners.
γδ T cells and adipocyte IL-17RC control fat innervation and thermogenesis.

The sympathetic nervous system innervates peripheral organs to regulate their function and maintain homeostasis, whereas target cells also produce neurotrophic factors to promote sympathetic innervation1,2. The molecular basis of this bi-directional communication remains to be fully determined. Here we use thermogenic adipose tissue from mice as a model system to show that T cells, specifically γδ T cells, have a crucial role in promoting sympathetic innervation, at least in part by driving the expression of TGFβ1 in parenchymal cells via the IL-17 receptor C (IL-17RC). Ablation of IL-17RC specifically in adipose tissue reduces expression of TGFβ1 in adipocytes, impairs local sympathetic innervation and causes obesity and other metabolic phenotypes that are consistent with defective thermogenesis; innervation can be fully rescued by restoring TGFβ1 expression. Ablating γδ Τ cells and the IL-17RC signalling pathway also impairs sympathetic innervation in other tissues such as salivary glands. These findings demonstrate coordination between T cells and parenchymal cells to regulate sympathetic innervation. Vγ6+ Vδ1+ γδ T cells control tolerance to cold by activating adipocyte IL-17RC and promoting sympathetic innervation of thermogenic adipose tissue in mice.
Topology and Economics: The Contribution of S. Smale

Classical problems in economics are concerned with the solutions of several simultaneous nonlinear optimization problems. one for each consumer or producer. all facing constraints posed by the scarcity of resources. Often their interests conflict. and it is generally impossible to find a single real-valued function representing the interests of the whole of society. To deal with this problem. John Von Neumann introduced the theory of games. He also defined and established the existence of a general economic equilibrium, using topological tools [Von Neumann. 1938]. The work of Stephen Smale follows this tradition. He uses topological tools to deepen and reline the results on existence and other properties of another type of economic equilibrium, the Walrasian equilibrium (Walras [1874-77]), as formalized by Kenneth J. Arrow and Gerard Debreu [l954], and of non-cooperative equilibrium in game theory as formalized by Nash (1950). This article aims to show that topology is intrinsically necessary for the understanding of the fundamental problem of conflict resolution in economics in its various forms; and to situate Smale's contribution within this perspective. The study of conflicts of interests between individuals is what makes economics interesting and mathematically complex.
Special Education in the United States: Legal History

The development of special education in the United States has largely been led by developments that have occurred through federal legislation and litigation. The purpose of this article is to trace and briefly describe the legal history of special education. I trace the eight critical legal developments that have affected, and continue to greatly influence, the education of students with disabilities in public schools. I conclude by highlighting the many improvements in the lives of students with disabilities engendered by special education law.
The future is now for transforming outcomes nationally: the Fontan Outcomes Network

Abstract The Fontan Outcomes Network aims to dramatically improve longevity and quality of life for people living with Fontan circulation. This mission will be achieved by improving physical health, resilience and emotional health, and neurodevelopment for these individuals and their families. Co-produced by patients, parents, clinicians, and researchers, this national initiative has been strategically designed and built on a scalable learning health network platform to address key gaps in the field, support discovery, and accelerate improvements in outcomes.
Anatomical Covariance Analysis: Detection of Disrupted Correlation Network Related to Clinical Trait Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis: A Pilot Study

Background Fatigue is one of the most distressing symptoms among persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). The experience of fatigue is inherently interoceptive, yet no study to date has explicitly investigated the insular cortex (IC) as a primary goal in the experience of fatigue in PwMS. In addition, it is unknown how brain regions such as IC play a role in state or trait fatigue.
Identifiability as an “Antidote”: Exploring Emotional Contagion and the Role of Anonymity in Twitter Discussions on Misinformation

Misinformation carries both distorted facts and sophisticated emotional signals. Comparing to facts that could be labeled as true or false, we are more concerned about contaminative negative emotions transferring digitally among users. In this study, we explored an emotional contagion effect among misinformation discussion participants on Twitter. We analyzed the sentiment of 573 tweets in 192 discussion threads. Our result revealed that highly emotional tweets do not have a universal effect on the online discussions, but it affects those individuals with limited social and personal identity cues (i.e., being anonymous). We found that anonymous members of the online discussion are more susceptible to emotional contagions than those are not. We also suggest coping strategies that protect social media users’ emotional well-being during the era COVID-19.
Computational Investigation of Dichloromethane Ligand Substitution in the Enantiopure Cation [(η5-C5H5)Re(NO)(PPh3)(ClCH2Cl)]+, a Functional Equivalent of a Chiral Lewis Acid

The dichloromethane ligand of [(η5-C5H5)Re(NO)(PPh3)(ClCH2Cl)]+ X– (1+ X–) can be displaced by a variety of ligands (:L), always with retention of configuration at rhenium. Reactions are first orde...
A Comparison of Questing Substrates and Environmental Factors That Influence Nymphal Ixodes pacificus (Acari: Ixodidae) Abundance and Seasonality in the Sierra Nevada Foothills of California

In California, the western blacklegged tick, Ixodes pacificus Cooley and Kohls, is the principal vector of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (sl) complex (Spirochaetales: Spirochaetaceae, Johnson et al.), which includes the causative agent of Lyme disease (B. burgdorferi sensu stricto). Ixodes pacificus nymphs were sampled from 2015 to 2017 at one Sierra Nevada foothill site to evaluate our efficiency in collecting this life stage, characterize nymphal seasonality, and identify environmental factors affecting their abundance and infection with B. burgdorferi sl. To assess sampling success, we compared the density and prevalence of I. pacificus nymphs flagged from four questing substrates (logs, rocks, tree trunks, leaf litter). Habitat characteristics (e.g., canopy cover, tree species) were recorded for each sample, and temperature and relative humidity were measured hourly at one location. Generalized linear mixed models were used to assess environmental factors associated with I. pacificus abundance and B. burgdorferi sl infection. In total, 2,033 substrates were sampled, resulting in the collection of 742 I. pacificus nymphs. Seasonal abundance of nymphs was bimodal with peak activity occurring from late March through April and a secondary peak in June. Substrate type, collection year, month, and canopy cover were all significant predictors of nymphal density and prevalence. Logs, rocks, and tree trunks had significantly greater nymphal densities and prevalences than leaf litter. Cumulative annual vapor pressure deficit was the only significant climatic predictor of overall nymphal I. pacificus density and prevalence. No associations were observed between the presence of B. burgdorferi sl in nymphs and environmental variables.
3D dosimetric validation of ultrasound-guided radiotherapy with a dynamically deformable abdominal phantom.

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this study was to dosimetrically benchmark gel dosimetry measurements in a dynamically deformable abdominal phantom for intrafraction image guidance through a multi-dosimeter comparison. Once benchmarked, the study aimed to perform a proof-of-principle study for validation measurements of an ultrasound image-guided radiotherapy delivery system. Methods The phantom was dosimetrically benchmarked by delivering a liver VMAT plan and measuring the 3D dose distribution with DEFGEL dosimeters. Measured doses were compared to the treatment planning system and measurements acquired with radiochromic film and an ion chamber. The ultrasound image guidance validation was performed for a hands-free ultrasound transducer for the tracking of liver motion during treatment. Results Gel dosimeters were compared to the TPS and film measurements, showing good qualitative dose distribution matches, low γ values through most of the high dose region, and average 3%/5 mm γ-analysis pass rates of 99.2%(0.8%) and 90.1%(0.8%), respectively. Gel dosimeter measurements matched ion chamber measurements within 3%. The image guidance validation study showed the measurement of the treatment delivery improvements due to the inclusion of the ultrasound image guidance system. Good qualitative matching of dose distributions and improvements of the γ-analysis results were observed for the ultrasound-gated dosimeter compared to the ungated dosimeter. Conclusions DEFGEL dosimeters in phantom showed good agreement with the planned dose and other dosimeters for dosimetric benchmarking. Ultrasound image guidance validation measurements showed good proof-of-principle of the utility of the phantom system as a method of validating ultrasound-based image guidance systems and potentially other image guidance methods.
Progression of the atypical fibroxanthoma to pleomorphic dermal sarcoma in a heart transplant patient

An 82-year-old man presented with a right scalp lesion which had been increasing in size. The patient’s medical history was significant for a heart transplant 25 years before, and he was on chronic immunosuppression. Biopsy of the lesion showed atypical fibroxanthoma. The patient underwent an excision of the lesion with split thickness skin graft. Pathology showed fibroxanthoma with negative margins. Over the next 9 months, the patient developed new lesions, which were also excised to negative margins. However, with each new lesion, the histology demonstrated increasing dysplasia and ultimately pleomorphic sarcoma. The patient had a metastatic workup with CT of the chest, which was negative, and he underwent a radical scalpectomy, split thickness skin graft placement and adjuvant radiation therapy. The patient has not developed any new scalp lesions and no evidence of metastasis.
The fruitful death of modal collapse arguments

Modal collapse arguments are all the rage in certain philosophical circles as of late. The arguments purport to show that classical theism entails the absurdly fatalistic conclusion that everything exists necessarily. My first aim in this paper is bold: to put an end to action-based modal collapse arguments against classical theism. To accomplish this, I first articulate the ‘Simple Modal Collapse Argument’ and then characterize and defend Tomaszewski’s criticism thereof. Second, I critically examine Mullins’ new modal collapse argument formulated in response to the aforementioned criticism. I argue that Mullins’ new argument does not succeed. Third, I critically examine a powers-based modal collapse argument against classical theism that has received much less attention in the literature. Fourth, I show why God’s being purely actual, as well God’s being identical to each of God’s acts, simply cannot entail modal collapse given indeterministic causation. This, I take it, signals the death of modal collapse arguments. But not all hope is lost for proponents of modal collapse arguments—for the death is a fruitful one insofar as it paves the way for new inquiry into at least two new potential problems for classical theism. Showing this is my paper’s second aim.
Paleoflood Analyses For Dam and Levee Safety Assessments: Was that Really the “500-Year Flood”?

What is paleoflood hydrology? How are paleofloods analyzed? What are common paleoflood results? What are the implications of paleoflood analyses?
Clonidine and lidamidine (WHR-1142) stimulate sodium and chloride absorption in the rabbit intestine

Abstract The effects of clonidine and lidamidine on ion transport in the intestine of the rabbit were determined. In the ileum both clonidine (10 −6 M) and lidamidine (10 −3 M) (a) decreased the short circuit current (−1.9 ± 0.3 and −2.0 ± 0.4 μEq/h · cm 2 , respectively) and potential difference; (b) increased net sodium absorption (2.0 ± 0.6 and 1.8 ± 0.4 μEq/ h · cm 2 ) and chloride absorption (3.4 ± 0.5 and 3.4 ± 0.6 μEq/h · cm 2 ); and (c) increased tissue conductance (8.7 ± 1.7 and 10.0 ± 1.6 mmho/cm 2 ). The increase in net sodium and chloride absorption was primarily due to an increase in mucosal-to-serosal movement of the ions and a decrease in serosal-tomucosal movement of chloride. The action of clonidine on the short circuit current was quantitatively similar to the action of epinephrine. Both were readily reversed by yohimbine, a specific α 2 -adrenergic antagonist. Further, methoxamine, an α 1 -adrenergic agonist has no effect on the short circuit current up to the concentration of 10 −5 M; and prazosin, an α 1 -adrenergic antagonist, did not affect the change of the short circuit current induced by epinephrine. The results indicate the presence of α 2 -adrenergic receptors on the intestine and suggest that α 2 -adrenergic stimulation may account for the effect of epinephrine on ion transport. Lidamidine was studied because it is structurally related to clonidine and has many similar actions. Yohimbine transiently reversed the effect of lidamidine. α 1 -Adrenergic or dopaminergic antagonists did not reverse the efect of lidamidine, suggesting that it may affect α 2 -adrenergic receptors. The results indicate that both clonidine and lidamidine stimulate electrolyte absorption and may be clinically useful.
Enoxaparin for thrombosis in neonates: Preliminary report

Objectives â€“ To investigate the dose of enoxaparin required in neonates to achieve target therapeutic ranges of anti factor Xa 48 hours after starting therapy, and compare this dose to recommended guideline dosages for neonates. Methods â€“ We retrospectively reviewed 19 records of newborns who received enoxaparin at different doses for the treatment of thrombosis and evaluated how many among them reached the target anti-factor Xa level after 48 hours. Results â€“ Only 1/5 neonates (20%) treated with 150 UI/kg twice a day, but 100% (6/6) of those treated with 175 UI/kg twice a day reached therapeutic levels of anti-factor Xa at 48 hours. Of the 8 neonates treated with lower starting doses none reached the therapeutic range after 48 hours and these required the highest number of dose changes. Conclusions â€“ Our results reinforce the need to increase in neonates the dosage of enoxaparin suggested in published guidelines, in order to shorten the time-delay in achieving a therapeutic level of anti-factor Xa, and also reducing the number of blood tests necessary for dosing anti-factor Xa.
Measuring the benefits of freshwater quality changes: techniques and empirical findings.

This chapter gives an overview of the techniques used to value the nonmarket benefits of water-related public goods and of the major empirical studies in this area. Travel cost, hedonic pricing, and contingent valuation are described; special emphasis is placed on the problems and limitations of implementing these methods to value changes in the quality and quantity of water-related amenities. Major empirical efforts to value National and regional water quality improvements, water-based recreation, ecosystem preservation, instream flows, ground-water protection, and water supply reliability are discussed.
Lessons from a Slow Leak

Silent Spill The Organization of an Industrial Crisis. Thomas D. Beamish. MIT Press, Cambridge, MA, 2002. 232 pp. $55, £37.95. ISBN 0-262-02512-4. Paper, $21.95, £14.95. ISBN 0-262-52320-5. Beamish offers a sociological perspective on a persistent and long-ignored oil spill in the Guadalupe Dunes of coastal California. He presents the case as an example of the sorts of environmental accidents that are neglected because they do not lead to dramatic destruction or disruption.
Toward a Theory of Consumer Electronic Shopping Cart Behavior Motivations of E-Cart Use and Abandonment

How do online shoppers use their electronic shopping carts (e-carts)? Also, why would an online consumer be motivated to place an item in his electronic (e-cart), only to abandon it? e-Cart abandonment refers to “consumers’ placement of item(s) in their online shopping cart without making a purchase of any item(s) during that online shopping session” (Kukar-Kinney & Close, 2010, p. 240). It is a million-dollar concern to businesses, and a perplexing online consumer behavior to explain and predict. Industry studies note that 88% of online shoppers have abandoned an online cart (Forrester Research, 2005). Even more telling, online shoppers abandon their shopping carts approximately a quarter of the time (Tarasofsky, 2008).
Viking Extended Mission Support

The period 1 March 1977 through 30 April 1977 is reported and includes Deep Space Network (DSN) Mark III data system testing. Status of the Viking DSN discrepancy reporting system as well as the status of Viking related tracking and command support were also considered. Operations support of Viking events and radio science activities were examined. Current progress on the major reconfiguration of the Network is presented in the context of support for the Viking extended mission.
Effects of sperm concentration and egg number on fertilization efficiency with channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) eggs and blue catfish (I. furcatus) spermatozoa

The mean sperm concentration of 10 blue catfish (Ictalurus furcatus ) was 1.03 x 10(10) per gram of testis. Testis weighed 3.9 and 17.2 g, with a mean of 6.6 g per fish. Fertilization rate of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus ) eggs fertilized with 5.00 x 10(4) to 1.20 x 10(7) blue catfish spermatozoa per egg was 17 to 87%, with an overall mean of 65%. Sperm concentrations of 5.0 x 10(4)/egg exhibited a lower, 16.6% (P < 0.05) fertilization rate than higher sperm concentrations (1.25 x 10(5) to 1.20 x 10(8)/egg). Batches of 450, 2,000, 5,000, 8,000 and 11,000 eggs were similarly fertilized with various sperm concentrations. Mean fertility rate ranged from 25 to 67%, with an overall mean of 53%. The largest egg mass produced the lowest (P < 0.05) fertilization rate. A combination of 450 eggs per batch and 5.0 x 10(5) to 1.20 x (8) sperm per egg produced the highest rate of fertilization (67 to 87%).
Ultrafast laser processing of materials: a review

We present an overview of the different processes that can result from focusing an ultrafast laser light in the femtosecond–nanosecond time regime on a host of materials, e.g., metals, semiconductors, and insulators. We summarize the physical processes and surface and bulk applications and highlight how femtosecond lasers can be used to process various materials. Throughout this paper, we will show the advantages and disadvantages of using ultrafast lasers compared with lasers that operate in other regimes and demonstrate their potential for the ultrafast processing of materials and structures.
Can Stereotype Threat Be Measured? A Validation of the Social Identities and Attitudes Scale (SIAS):

This study reported the development and validation of the Social Identities and Attitudes Scale (SIAS)—a stereotype threat susceptibility measure. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses conducted with college students revealed that the scale, which constitutes six key ST moderators, possessed strong psychometric properties. The SIAS makes it possible for researchers to establish a baseline for measuring ST susceptibility and, subsequently, the impact of interventions attempting to reduce it. It provides researchers with the means to tease ST effects apart, differentiate between levels of ST risk (e.g., low, moderate, high), and facilitate the development of specialized interventions for different ST risk levels. Its use as a tool for identifying high-risk ST individuals might also be useful for mixed methods research seeking to understand contextual factors that exacerbate ST for these individuals and, importantly, how they respond to these environments.
The Effect of Visual Cues on Dietary Behavior: A Pilot Study

Pediatric obesity is highly prevalent, especially among low-literacy populations, and novel interventions are needed to combat the problem in this unique population. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a brief, novel, visual cue dietary intervention with low-income urban families. Eleven families completed the small, in-home pilot study. A decrease was seen in maternal variables, including body mass index, calories per day, and percentage of calories from fat. Regarding foods in the home, the percentage of (green) healthy foods increased, but only slightly, and green foods remained the least prevalent food type in the home.
The Fisher information matrix for linear systems

Estimation of parameters of linear systems is a problem often encountered in applications. The Cramer Rao lower bound gives a lower bound on the variance of any unbiased parameter estimation method and therefore provides an important tool in the assessment of a parameter estimation method and for experimental design. Here we study the calculation of the Fisher information matrix, the inverse of the Cramer Rao lower bound, from a system theoretic point of view. A number of results appear in the literature that deal with the case where the stationary data is given as the output of a linear system driven by Gaussian noise. The non-stationary situation where the data is the output of a linear system with Gaussian measurement noise is rarely considered despite its importance in applications. A general description will be given for Fisher information for such data in terms of a derivative system. For a uniformly sampled data set of impulse response type a closed form expression can be given for the Fisher information using the solution of a Lyapunov equation.
The Institutionalization of Alternative Dispute Resolution in the Federal Government

This article uses resource dependence and institutional theory to examine the implementation of the Administrative Dispute Resolution Acts of 1990 and 1996. The insights from these theories are employed to explain the diffusion of and variation in the application of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to different programmatic areas. Although agencies have generally complied with the direct requirements of the acts, their intent has not been fully realized. Several factors have complicated the implementation of the ADR Acts, prompting agencies to take different strategic approaches to the application of ADR in programmatic areas. In general, agencies have acquiesced to the use of ADR in employment disputes, compromised on ADR use in contracting and procurement disputes, and avoided ADR use in civil enforcement disputes. Finally, this article evaluates progress toward impact evaluations of the ADR Acts and suggests directions for future research.
Increased responsiveness and failure of habituation in neurons of the external nucleus of inferior colliculus associated with audiogenic seizures of the genetically epilepsy-prone rat

Abstract Initiation of audiogenic seizures (AGS) emanates from the inferior colliculus (IC) to other IC subnuclei in the genetically epilepsy-prone rat (GEPR). The external nucleus of IC (ICx) is a suggested site of convergence of the auditory output onto the sensorimotor integration network components for AGS in the brainstem. Neuronal firing was recorded from the ICx of the awake, freely moving GEPR and normal Sprague–Dawley rats using microwire electrodes in the present study. Auditory stimuli consisted of 12-kHz tones (100 ms, 5-ms rise–fall at rates of 1/4s, 1/2s, and 1/s). AGS in cidence in the GEPR is highest at 12 kHz. In the GEPR, ICx neuronal responses to acoustic stimuli were significantly greater than those seen in normal rats. This increased ICx firing was observed at relatively high acoustic intensities (>80 dB SPL), which are near the threshold for AGS induction. Repetition-induced response attenuation (habituation) is commonly observed in ICx neurons, which appears to be overcome in the GEPR during AGS initiation. Tonic, acoustically evoked ICx neuronal firing was observed just prior to wild running. ICx firing was suppressed during the tonic and postictal phases of AGS. Recovery of ICx responses occurred when the animal regained postural control. Abnormal, intense output has previously been observed in the GEPR IC central nucleus (ICc) neurons. The neuronal firing pattern changes observed in the ICx in the present study may result from this intense ICc output. Diminished efficacy of GABA, which has been observed in several regions of the GEPR brain, including the IC, in a number of previous studies, may be involved in the exaggerated ICx responses to acoustic stimuli in the GEPR. Participation of the ICx in the AGS neuronal network may be subserved by this acoustic hyperresponsiveness.
Effects of antidiuretic hormone on cellular conductive pathways in mouse medullary thick ascending limbs of henle. I: ADH increases transcellular conductance pathways

This paper reports experiments designed to assess the relations between net salt absorption and transcellular routes for ion conductance in single mouse medullary thick ascending limbs of Henle microperfusedin vitro. The experimental data indicate that ADH significantly increased the transepithelial electrical conductance, and that this conductance increase could be rationalized in terms of transcellular conductance changes. A minimal estimate (G c min ) of the transcellular conductance, estimated from Ba++ blockade of apical membrane K+ channels, indicated thatG c min was approximately 30–40% of the measured transepithelial conductance. In apical membranes, K+ was the major conductive species; and ADH increased the magnitude of a Ba++-sensitive K+ conductance under conditions where net Cl− absorption was nearly abolished. In basolateral membranes, ADH increased the magnitude of a Cl− conductance; this ADH-dependent increase in basal Cl− conductance depended on a simultaneous hormone-dependent increase in the rate of net Cl− absorption. Cl− removal from luminal solutions had no detectable effect onG e , and net Cl− absorption was reduced at luminal K+ concentrations less than 5mm; thus apical Cl− entry may have been a Na+,K+,2Cl− cotransport process having a negligible conductance. The net rate of K+ secretion was approximately 10% of the net rate of Cl− absorption, while the chemical rate of net Cl− absorption was virtually equal to the equivalent short-circuit current. Thus net Cl− absorption was rheogenic; and approximately half of net Na+ absorption could be rationalized in terms of dissipative flux through the paracellular pathway. These findings, coupled with the observation that K+ was the principal conductive species in apical plasma membranes, support the view that the majority of K+ efflux from cell to lumen through the Ba++-sensitive apical K+ conductance pathway was recycled into cells by Na+,K+,2Cl− cotransport.
Simplified sample preparation for detection of wheat streak mosaic virus and barley yellow dwarf virus by PCR

A PCR diagnostic procedure for wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) was developed using a primer derived from 3'-terminal sequences of five WSMV isolates and an oligo d(T)-based primer. Cereal extracts prepared by digestion with proteinase K and boiling permitted PCR-based detection of both WSMV and BYDV in field samples. This procedure saves time, eliminates multiple liquid transfer steps, and reduces the chances of cross contamination. Sensitivity of such assays is still very good; BYDV could be readily detected in plant sap diluted over 1000-fold. Further, parallel detection of WSMV and barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) in the same samples is possible with this method.
Parametric Optimization of Ares I Propellant Slosh Characteristics Using Frequency Response Criteria

A novel technique for developing propellant slosh damping requirements with respect to the stability characteristics of large flexible launch vehicles is presented. A numerical algorithm is devised which allows an automated software program to rapidly converge to pseudo-optimal solutions that minimize required propellant slosh damping for multiple tanks while maintaining constraints on the frequency response characteristics of a particular open-loop plant transfer function. An implementation of the algorithm using a high-order linear model of the Ares I plant dynamics considers all relevant dynamic interactions of flexible body modes, propellant slosh, and nozzle inertia effects. A high-resolution propellant damping requirements table is produced that can be used for baffle design. The method is demonstrated to provide exceptional speed and accuracy when compared with the alternative human-in-the-loop approach.