cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Discovery of QSOs Behind M31 and M33.

We report the discovery of 11 newly found quasars behind the stellar disks of the spiral galaxies M31 and M33 in the fields covered by the Local Group Galaxy Survey. Their redshifts range from 0.37 to 2.15. Most are X-ray, UV, and IR sources. We also report the discovery of 5 normal background galaxies. Most of these objects were observed owing to their anomalous colors, as part of a program (reported elsewhere) to confirm spectroscopically candidate red supergiant plus B star binaries; others were discovered as part of our identification of early-type massive stars based upon their optical colors. There are 15 previously known quasars in the same fields, for a grand total of 26, 15 behind M31 and 11 behind M33. Of these, only eight were discovered as part of surveys for quasars; the rest were found accidentally. The quasars are well distributed in the M31 and M33 fields, except for the inner regions, and have the potential for being good probes of the interstellar medium in these stellar disks, as well as serving as zero-point calibrators for Gaia parallaxes.
Clarifying pore diameter, pore width, and their relationship through pressure measurements: A critical study

Abstract Understanding geometrical and topological properties of the pore space in permeable media is of paramount importance, particularly in oil and gas production. Pore space characteristics such as pore sizes and their probability distributions, as well as pore's connectivity are main factors in the modeling of fluid flow and chemical transport in soils and rocks. A common method to determine the pore size is to convert an implemented pressure via either the Young-Laplace or Kelvin equation by assuming a specific pore shape. Simple geometries such as cylindrical and slit-shaped have been frequently used in the literature, particularly to represent pores and to derive theoretical models estimating permeability from pore-throat size distribution. In this study, we clarify the relationship between pore diameter (d) and pore width (w), two terms interchangeably used in the literature. The former corresponds to a cylindrical pore, while the latter to a slit-shaped one. We emphasize that d = 2w, in contrast to previously published studies claiming that the diameter of a cylindrical pore is equal to the distance between sides of a slit-shaped pore (i.e., d = w). In addition, we discuss that comparing/combining pore size distribution derived from mercury intrusion porosimetry and that determined from nitrogen adsorption isotherm is not supported, unless the effect of hysteresis is trivial, as most probably the former represents pore-throat while the latter pore-body size distributions.
Characterization of thermally sensitive miRNAs reveals a central role of the FoxO signaling pathway in regulating the cellular stress response of an extreme stenotherm, Trematomus bernacchii.

Abstract Despite the lack of an inducible heat shock response (HSR), the Antarctic notothenioid fish, Trematomus bernacchii, has retained a level of physiological plasticity that can at least partially compensate for the effects of acute heat stress. Over the last decade, both physiological and transcriptomic studies have signaled these fish can mitigate the effects of acute heat stress by employing other aspects of the cellular stress response (CSR) that help confer thermotolerance as well as drive homeostatic mechanisms during long-term thermal acclimations. However, the regulatory mechanisms that determine temperature-induced changes in gene expression remain largely unexplored in this species. Therefore, this study utilized next generation sequencing coupled with an in silico approach to explore the regulatory role of microRNAs in governing the transcriptomic level response observed in this Antarctic notothenioid with respect to the CSR. Using RNAseq, we characterized the expression of 125 distinct miRNA orthologues in T. bernacchii gill tissue. Additionally, we identified 12 miRNAs that appear to be thermally responsive based on differential expression (DE) analyses performed between fish acclimated to control (−1.5 °C) and an acute heat stress (+4 °C). We further characterized the functional role of these DE miRNAs using bioinformatics pipelines to identify putative gene targets of the DE miRNAs and subsequent gene set enrichment analyses, which together suggest these miRNAs are involved in regulating diverse aspects of the CSR in T. bernacchii.
Power of the Pen or the Gavel? Determining Asylum Standards on the Courts of Appeals

AbstractThe judiciary is subject to constraint from Congress through numerous mechanisms. In particular, Congress can limit judicial discretion through the content of the statutes it passes. After ...
Evidence-Based Treatment of Pediatric Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders

Pediatric obsessive-compulsive disorder is a common childhood psychiatric illness. The primary focus of the chapter is on obsessive-compulsive disorder per se given the more robust evidence base, although additional evidence is briefly reviewed for other obsessive-compulsive related disorders such as body dysmorphic disorder, hoarding disorder, trichotillomania, and excoriation disorder. The cause of this disorder remains unknown, however, there are multiple biobehavioral etiological theories. The cause is likely multi-determined and includes cognitive-behavioral, biological, and environmental factors. The chapter discusses therapeutic considerations for the psychosocial treatment of pediatric OCD and related disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapies have been identified as efficacious treatments for this pediatric condition. There is a strong evidence base from meta-analyses for both traditional cognitive behavioral treatments and cognitive-behavioral family treatment modalities. Emerging research has also focused on remote treatment delivery options and novel modalities for nonresponders such as intensive cognitive-behavioral therapies. Other psychosocial modalities have not been demonstrated as efficacious based on available evidence.
Neurodevelopment in turner syndrome

Abstract Turner syndrome (TS) is a rare condition of phenotypic females in which all or part of the second sex chromosome is missing in some or all of the body’s cells. It is a complex condition, which can affect many different organ systems. The primary focus of this chapter will be on the central nervous system. TS is associated with cognitive strengths and weaknesses. Weaknesses are often observed in the realms of visuospatial processing, arithmetical abilities, social cognition, attentional control, and executive function. Areas of strength include orienting attention, phonological processing, receptive and expressive vocabulary, and semantic language. The characteristic neurocognitive profile is often accompanied by specific neuroanatomical features as indexed by MRI. This includes decreased gray matter volumes in parietal–occipital cortex and increased volumes of amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex, in comparison to 46,XX females. Some of these features are detectable in infancy. Mechanisms linking sex chromosome loss to altered neural development remain unclear, but may involve haploinsufficiency of gene expression, failure to express imprinted genes, and the uncovering of X-linked mutations. Clinical care for women and girls with TS ought to include behavioral health specialists who are trained to diagnose the educational and psychosocial difficulties associated with TS, as well as individuals who can provide appropriate interventions. Additional research is needed to formulate a comprehensive neurodevelopmental model of TS.
Income Conservatism in the U.S. Technology Sector

SYNOPSIS I investigate the extent and nature of income conservatism in the financial statement numbers of firms in the U.S. technology sector. Technology firms are predicted to have greater income conservatism than other U.S. firms because they are subject to both higher shareholder litigation risk and conservative accounting standards such as SFAS 2. In the absence of a generally accepted measure of conservatism, I examine several proxies, including loss incidence and accounting rates of return, operating cash flow and nonoperating accrual levels, and regression coefficients from the earnings-return model in Basu (1997). Relative to other companies, technology firms' earnings are characterized by higher (and intertemporally increasing) levels of both conditional and unconditional conservatism. These differences are both statistically and economically significant. Further analysis suggests that technology firms' higher conservatism results primarily from lower operating cash flows due to R&D expensing and...
Tartaric Acid Metabolism: V. Crystalline Tartrate Dehydrogenase

Abstract Tartrate dehydrogenase from Pseudomonas putida has been purified and crystallized. The enzyme catalyzes the reversible, DPN-linked oxidation of mesotartrate and of l(+)-tartrate to oxaloglycolate; l(-)- and d(+)-malate are inactive as either substrates or inhibitors. The enzyme requires manganous ions and one of several monovalent cations for activity. Both qualitative and quantitative differences are found in the requirement for monovalent cation, depending on whether meso- or l(+)-tartrate serves as substrate. The active enzyme has a molecular weight of 145,000 and appears to be composed of four subunits, each of which has a molecular weight of approximately 36,800.
Cytodifferentiation of the mouse secondary palate in vitro: morphological, biochemical, and histochemical aspects.

Previous investigations had indicated that the epithelial cells at the medial surface of the palate differentiate prior to fusion. An increase in adhesiveness and signs of partial autolysis were reported to be part of the differentiation. It was not determined, however, whether or not the autolytic processes may result in the total lysis of the cells, even if fusion is prevented. This problem was approached in the present investigation by culturing shelves in isolation, thus preventing fusion. The morphological properties of the presumptive fusing cells were then observed during and after the actual time of fusion. Differentiation was assessed in vivo at equivalent developmental ages. In addition, the role of the lysosomes in the process of fusion was investigated. This was done by measuring the activities of two lysosomal enzymes, glucosaminidase and arylsulfatase, before, during, and after fusion in vivo and at the equivalent times in vitro . Glucosaminidase activity was also localized histochemically. The in vitro and in vivo differentiation were similar. The cells of the mesenchyme produced intramembranous bone and loose mesenchyme. The nasal surface differentiated into a pseudostratified columnar ciliated epithelium, while the oral surface became stratified squamous epithelium. At the medial surface, however, the morphological changes during fusion in vivo were different from those observed at the equivalent time in vitro . Few, if any, of the presumptive fusing cells forming a bi-layered or multilayered epithelium degenerated in the explants, while many cells forming the epithelial seam in vivo underwent complete degeneration. In addition, after fusion, the medial surface of the palatal explants was covered by a stratified squamous and/or pseudostratified columnar ciliated epithelia. In vivo , the mesenchyme merged as a consequence of the total destruction of the seam. The specific activity of glucosaminidase increased progressively, reaching a peak three days after fusion. In all cases no statistically significant differences were found between the in vivo and in vitro values. Arylsulfatase specific activity remained the same both in vivo and in vitro . Histochemically glucosaminidase activity was localized in the cells undergoing degeneration during fusion. It is concluded that fusion is a necessary condition for the completion of the autolysis of the presumptive fusing cells. The cells may alter their developmental fate, forming a stratified squamous and/or pseudostratified columnar epithelia, if fusion is prevented.
Numerical study of a UWB dual-polarized feed design for enhanced tapered chambers

A tapered chamber is a facility to provide the quiet zone environment necessary for the accurate measurement of antenna radiation patterns and the radar cross sections (RCS) of targets. A crucial aspect to be considered in any tapered chamber design is that the launching field (feed) antenna should provide a uniform amplitude and phase distribution throughout the test zone. A novel wave launcher design for an enhanced tapered chamber is discussed to provide both ultra wideband (UWB) and dual polarization capabilities. The enhanced tapered chamber feed antenna uses a dual-polarized aperture-matched UWB bow-tie antenna. We investigate its performance by means of a detailed finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) model which incorporates the absorber material characteristics, the feeding cable structures, and the complete geometry of the wave launcher and feeding section of the chamber. The FDTD results show that, for the physical dimension considered, the frequency of operation can be as low as 300 MHz, for a tolerance of 5 dB in the aperture electric field magnitude variations in the test zone. This feed antenna design can be applied to fully extended tapered chambers used in wireless antenna testing and RCS measurements.
The Friars Preachers: The First Hundred Years of the Dominican Order

The first 100 years of the Dominican order witnessed the transition from a small group of men dedicated to preaching against the Albigensian heresy in southern France, to a transnational order with thousands of members affecting nearly every area of Latin Christendom. This essay is a short bibliographical overview of the state of Dominican studies for the first 100 years of their existence. It touches briefly upon the foundation, the idea of poverty, University study, preaching, inquisitions, female spirituality, and the Dominican relationship to the papacy. It offers a look both at the necessary sources for a study of the Dominicans, as well as a look at new directions in scholarship about the order.
THE BLOOD PICTURE OF ADRENALECTOMIZED ANIMALS TREATED WITH DIFFERENT ADRENAL FRACTIONS1

THE LITERATURE on the blood picture of adrenalectomiz;ed animals receiving adequate substitutional therapy is very meager. As pointed out by Waterman Tet al. (1) (1939) in their review of the literature the earlier studies were made HE LITERATURE before potent extracts were available, hence the changes were complicated by post operative reactions. An increase in hemoglobin andthe number of red blood cells was observed by the majority of the early workers. Zwemer and Lyons (2) found a relative neutropenia and lymphocytosis and Corey and Britton (3) observed a relative leucocytosis with the development of adrenal in sufficiency. Harrop (4) reported that in one dog the mean corpuscular volume increased from 61.3 to 75.2 cu. μ. during insufficiency. He attributed this to a shift of body water. Waterman et al. (1) found “no important changes in either the red or white blood cell picture before and after adrenalectomy” when the dogs were main' tained on ‘cortin.’
Sample skewness as a statistical measurement of neuronal tuning sharpness

We propose using the statistical measurement of the sample skewness of the distribution of mean firing rates of a tuning curve to quantify sharpness of tuning. For some features, like binocular disparity, tuning curves are best described by relatively complex and sometimes diverse functions, making it difficult to quantify sharpness with a single function and parameter. Skewness provides a robust nonparametric measure of tuning curve sharpness that is invariant with respect to the mean and variance of the tuning curve and is straightforward to apply to a wide range of tuning, including simple orientation tuning curves and complex object tuning curves that often cannot even be described parametrically. Because skewness does not depend on a specific model or function of tuning, it is especially appealing to cases of sharpening where recurrent interactions among neurons produce sharper tuning curves that deviate in a complex manner from the feedforward function of tuning. Since tuning curves for all neurons are not typically well described by a single parametric function, this model independence additionally allows skewness to be applied to all recorded neurons, maximizing the statistical power of a set of data. We also compare skewness with other nonparametric measures of tuning curve sharpness and selectivity. Compared to these other nonparametric measures tested, skewness is best used for capturing the sharpness of multimodal tuning curves defined by narrow peaks maximum and broad valleys minima. Finally, we provide a more formal definition of sharpness using a shape-based information gain measure and derive and show that skewness is correlated with this definition.
Spectral analysis of heart rate variability during quiet sleep in normal human fetuses between 36 and 40 weeks of gestation

Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) is a clinical manifestation of the parasympathetic nervous system which can be identified in the high-frequency region of the heart rate variability (HRV) power spectrum. The purpose of this study was to determine the relative contribution of RSA to overall HRV for human fetuses in quiet sleep. The study population consisted of 13 normal human fetuses between 36 and 40 weeks of gestation for whom data were collected during spontaneous breathing and normally occurring apneic periods. Fetal breathing was monitored continuously using real-time sonography. The fetal electrocardiogram was captured transabdominally in 3-min blocks at a rate of 833 Hz and fetal R-waves were extracted from the raw signal using adaptive signal processing techniques. Fetal behavioral state was determined at the beginning and end of each 3-min data collection period. The fetal R-wave interbeat intervals (IBIs) were converted to equally-spaced, time-based data, and linear detrending of the time series was accomplished by subtracting the mean heart period from each weighted IBI. Total power (TP, 0.0–2.5 Hz) was divided into RSA (0.4–1.0 Hz), high-frequency (HF, 0.2–2.5 Hz), low-frequency (LF, 0.04–0.2 Hz), and very-low-frequency (VLF 0.0–0.04 Hz) regions, and the power densities were summed to determine the absolute power for each frequency component. A total of 81 3 min blocks (mean per subject 6.3, range 2–14) were available for analysis. Eleven (85%) of 13 fetuses demonstrated at HF peak during fetal breathing, and RSA accounted for approximately 20% of the TP. Although HF amplitude was reduced in the absence of fetal respiratory activity, RSA did not invariably disappear during periods of apnea, as the HF peak was recognized in seven (54%) fetuses when no respiratory activity was observed. Total power was approximately evenly distributed between the VLF, LF, and HF regions, and this distribution was independent of whether the fetus was breathing or not. However, the absolute power was significantly greater (P < 0.05) during breathing as compared to non-breathing for TP and for the VLF, LF, HF, and RSA components. We conclude that RSA is common in normal human fetuses and is a significant factor contributing to HRV.
Prisoners' Rights and the Rehnquist Court Era

Supreme Court decisions affecting prisoners' rights assumed special importance during the Rehnquist Court era (1986 to 2005) because rapidly expanding prison populations placed more individuals' daily lives under the influence of corrections law. Substantive legal analysis reveals that the Rehnquist Court produced important decisions establishing new analytical tests that helped to guide lower court decisions and counteracted previous expansions of prisoners' rights. In particular, the Rehnquist Court's tests emphasized deference to corrections officials, significant proof thresholds for Eighth Amendment claims, and strict standing requirements for access-to-courts claims.
Observing System Simulation Experiment for Global Precipitation Mission

From the suite of future Global Precipitation Mission (GPM) satellites we have selected 11 of the possible contributors to the NASA’s International precipitation measurement program. The Observing System Simulation Experiments (OSSE) presented here explores the predictive usefulness of this suite of satellites. In order to carry out such experiments a Nature Run based on results from a state of the model is required. For that purpose we have selected recent past runs from the European Center for Medium Range Forecasts (ECMWF). These were designated as special data sets for OSSEs in partnership between NASA, NCEP/EMC, and NOAA. In order to test the usefulness of these future GPM-based precipitation measurements we first identify the typical orbits of eleven satellites. Along these orbital tracks we generate proxy precipitation data sets from the ECMWF Nature Run. This method of extraction of precipitation data set from a Nature Run is described in this paper. This methodology also requires a fraternal twin model (different from the Nature Run) in which the usefulness of the proposed GPM proxy data sets from the Nature Run are systematically evaluated in a forecast mode. The procedure for incorporation of the rainfall data sets is called the rain rate initialization. Data from one or more satellites are sequentially introduced into the fraternal twin model (which is the Florida State University Global Spectral Model) during the initialization phase for a number of experiments. After the initialization of such precipitation data sets, forecast experiments are carried out with the fraternal twin. The question asked is, as we introduce more and more GPM satellites how close do the forecasts from the fraternal twin approach the Nature Run? The results from this experimentation show that very promising improvements for short-range precipitation forecast skills are attainable from the proposed suite of GPM satellites.
Female Adoptees Experiences Balancing Relationships With Biological and Adoptive Mothers Post-Reunification.

Using a feminist postmodern perspective and the sensitizing concept of split loyalties from Contextual Theory, the primary purpose of this qualitative study was to develop a better understanding of how adult female adoptees from closed adoptions negotiate relationships with their adoptive and biological mothers post-reunion. We conducted semi-structured individual interviews with nine adult female adoptees, ages 28-52, who were adopted prior to the age of two. Six were Caucasian, three were African American, and the average age at reunion was 29. Grounded theory techniques were used to code the qualitative data, in particular the constant comparative method of analysis. Four main categories emerged: (a) Negotiating Mother-Daughter Relationships, (b) Relating to Mothers Equitably, (c) Loyalty, and (d) Adoptees' Emotional Needs. Our findings suggest the adoptive mother-daughter relationship has a salient effect on adoptees' relationships with biological mothers post-reunion. Loyalty to the adoptive mother seems to influence the evolving relationship and closeness displayed toward the birth mother. Adult female adoptees from closed adoptions described struggling with managing their two mother-daughter relationships and need clinical help addressing their own emotional needs.
An analysis of reservoir conditions and responses in longwall panel overburden during mining and its effect on gob gas well performance

Abstract NIOSH conducted a cooperative research study to provide direct measurements of changing reservoir conditions in longwall panel overburden. The field measurements documented changes in permeabilities, methane concentrations, fluid pressures, and the effects of adjacent gob gas ventholes (GGVs) on NIOSH boreholes drilled in the study panel. Three different stratigraphic horizons were monitored by the NIOSH boreholes. Results indicated that the gob gas venthole fracture network formed 24 to 46 m (80 to 150 ft) ahead of the mining face. Overburden permeabilities within the same overburden test zones were ~ 1 md prior to undermining, increasing to hundreds or thousands of md during undermining. Permeabilities measured seven months after undermining showed additional increases. The relationship between changing reservoir conditions, longwall face position, and surface movement is discussed. Recommendations are made to optimize GGV performance by evaluating changes in subsidence produced by mining, resulting in rock stresses that substantially influence induced fracture permeability. Mechanisms to account for the observed changes in reservoir conditions are reported.
The Role of Complexity in Habitat Use and Selection by Stream Fishes in a Snake River Basin Tributary

AbstractImpacts from grazing, agriculture, and other anthropogenic land uses can decrease stream habitat complexity that is important to stream biota and often is the goal of stream habitat restoration. We evaluated how microhabitat complexity structured a fish assemblage and influenced habitat selection by the Northern Leatherside Chub Lepidomeda copei, a recent candidate for listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, in Trapper Creek, a tributary to the Snake River in Idaho. Fishes were sampled using prepositioned areal electrofishing (about 1 m2), and microhabitat conditions were measured within a 1-m-diameter circle centered on the electrofishing anode. Constrained correspondence analysis showed complexity in water depths and velocity to structure the fish assemblage and partition habitat use by Northern Leatherside Chub, Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss, and Redside Shiner Richardsonius balteatus. Habitat selection models showed that the chub used areas of heterogeneous depths and flows in addit...
Cytokine Regulation of the Mucosal Immune System: In Vivo Stimulation by Interferon-γ of Secretory Component and Immunoglobulin A in Uterine Secretions and Proliferation of Lymphocytes from Spleen*

The secretory immune system in the female reproductive tract is known to be regulated by sex hormones and antigen. The purpose of the present study was to examine the control by interferon-gamma (IFN gamma) of the secretory component (SC), the polymeric immunoglobulin A (IgA) receptor, and IgA in uterine secretions and to determine whether IFN gamma influences the proliferation of spleen cells in response to mitogens. When measured by RIA, SC levels in uterine secretions were elevated when increasing doses of IFN gamma (1000-5000 U/uterus) were placed in the uterine lumen of ovariectomized rats. In contrast, IFN alpha-beta (5000 U/uterus) placed in the uterine lumen had no effect on uterine SC levels. To determine whether IgA movement increases in response to IFN gamma, animals were treated with estradiol to increase uterine tissue IgA levels without stimulating the accumulation of IgA or SC in uterine secretions. Under these conditions, intrauterine IFN gamma increased SC and IgA levels in uterine secretions, suggesting that in vivo IFN gamma stimulation of uterine SC increases the transport of IgA from tissue to lumen. Analysis of uterine tissues indicated that intrauterine IFN gamma had no apparent effect on epithelial cell morphology. In contrast, intraepithelial lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear leucocytes, which were sparse in control tissues, increased markedly with IFN gamma treatment. This increase was antagonized when estradiol was administered along with IFN gamma. In other studies, IFN gamma placed in the uterine lumen significantly increased spleen cell proliferation in response to Concanavalin-A, phytohaemagglutinin, and lipopolysaccharide mitogens relative to those in spleen cells from control animals. These studies demonstrate that in vivo treatment with IFN gamma stimulates the mucosal immune system in the female reproductive tract by increasing SC and IgA levels in the uterine lumen and promoting the infiltration of intraepithelial lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear leucocytes into uterine tissue. Further, it suggests that antigen, in stimulating a local uterine response, may act through cytokines, particularly IFN gamma, to regulate the transport of IgA into uterine secretions as well as modulate lymphocyte proliferation at sites distal to the uterus.
NDUFS4: creation of a mouse model mimicking a Complex I disorder.

Abstract The Complex I NADH dehydrogenase–ubiquinone–FeS 4 (NDUFS4) subunit gene is involved in proper Complex I function such that the loss of NDUFS4 decreases Complex I activity resulting in mitochondrial disease. Therefore, a mouse model harboring a point mutation in the NDUFS4 gene was created. An embryonic lethal phenotype was observed in homozygous (NDUFS4−/−) mutant fetuses. Mitochondrial function was impaired in heterozygous animals based on oxygen consumption, and Complex I activity in NDUFS4 mouse mitochondria. Decreased Complex I activity with unaltered Complex II activity, along with an accumulation of lactate, were consistent with Complex I disorders in this mouse model.
Medical Error, Malpractice and Complications: A Moral Geography

This essay reviews and defines avoidable medical error, malpractice and complication. The relevant ethical principles pertaining to unanticipated medical outcomes are identified. In light of these principles I critically review the moral culpability of the agents in each circumstance and the resulting obligations to patients, their families, and the health care system in general. While I touch on some legal implications, a full discussion of legal obligations and liability issues is beyond the scope of this paper.
First Report of Tobacco rattle virus in Spinach in California

In 2009 in coastal California (Santa Barbara County), commercially grown spinach (Spinacia oleracea) in two nearby fields exhibited symptoms of a previously unrecognized virus-like disease. Symptom...
The Role Of Transiency In The Gain Enhancement Of A Raman Amplifier

We present a comparison of the theoretical predictions of a multimode broadband model with the experimentally measured gain enhancement in a Raman amplifier. The results show that the multimode theory with fixed and totally random phases is in agreement with the data obtained from an excimer laser pumped Raman amplifier. Additionally, this theory indicates that the correlated gain can be larger than the gain for a monochromatic laser, as might be expected for a model with amplitude modulation.
DNA content, mitotic activity, and incorporation of tritiated thymidine in the developing inner ear of the rat.

The rat inner ear is ectodermally derived from a region adjacent to the developing hindbrain. Beginning on day 8 of a 22-day gestational period, This zone of ectoderm first forms the otic placode, then the otocyst, and ultimately the definitive membranous labyrinth. This report provides an estimation of total DNA content of the developing inner ear, and hence an estimation of the total number of cells that comprise the inner ear at each developmental stage. The incorporation of /sup 3/H-thymidine indicates that most cells of the inner ear undergo DNA synthetic activity during gestational days 13 to 15. Radioautographic observations indicate a zone of DNA synthetic activity at the base of the outpocketing cochlear duct during early development. At the later stages of development, DNA synthesis is restricted to the cristae ampullares of the semicircular canals and the maculae of the utricle and the saccule. In contradistinction to the findings of other investigators, the statoacoustic ganglion complex undergoes terminal mitosis during gestational days 17 and 18. The gestational period between days 13 and 15 may prove to be a critical stage in normal otic development. The normal values of total DNA content and the number of cells that comprise themore » inner ear during development, established by these methods, can be compared with pathologic inner ears to provide quantitative means of assessing the damage in malformed inner ears. These values also form the baseline for future experimental studies of inner ear development.« less
A new quadrature sampling and processing approach

A quadrature sampling and array signal processing technique that differs from earlier approaches in that is processes the data before the Hilbert transformation is presented. A fast Fourier transformation (FFT) technique that performs the discrete Fourier transformation (DFT) on the sampled data directly without Hilbert transformation is proposed for frequency-domain signal processing. For array signal processing, the proposed approach does not perform Hilbert transformation prior to signal combining. It features high processing speed, low distortion, and hardware simplicity. Error analyses, performance evaluation, and computer simulation results are included. >
Synthesis of Water-Soluble Star-Block and Dendrimer-like Copolymers Based on Poly(ethylene oxide) and Poly(acrylic acid)

Star-block copolymers (PEO3-b-PAA3) and dendrimer-like copolymers (PEO3-b-PAA6) consisting of three inner poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) arms and either three or six peripheral poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) blocks were derived by a core-first approach. To this end, the OH end groups of three-arm PEO stars prepared anionically were derivatized into either three or six bromo-ester functions that served to grow the poly(tert-butyl acrylate) (PtBA) blocks by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) in a controlled fashion. This could be achieved at 80 °C in toluene in the presence of CuBr/pentamethyldiethylenetriamine (CuBr/PMDETA) as the catalyst system. Characterization by size exclusion chromatography and NMR of star-block copolymers (PEO3-b-PtBA3) and dendrimer-like copolymers (PEO3-b-PtBA6) confirmed their well-defined character. Subsequent treatment with trifluoroacetic acid selectively hydrolyzed the PtBA blocks, leading to the targeted PEO3-b-PAA3 and PEO3-b-PAA6 compounds. Alternatively, an arm-first metho...
Effect of Egg and Larval Survival on Year-Class Strength of Lake Whitefish in Grand Traverse Bay, Lake Michigan

Abstract A study was conducted in Grand Traverse Bay, Lake Michigan, during 1983 and 1984 to identify factors that are important in determining year-class strength of lake whitefish Coregonus clupeaformis. The major determinants of year-class success were overwintering egg survival and the amount of food available to larval lake whitefish during the first 7 weeks of life, Egg mortality was related to the timing of ice cover, with an early cold winter producing the highest survival. Larval survival was affected by the abundance of available prey, i.e., copepod zooplankton between the sizes of 0.7 and 1A mm in total length. In 1983, when zooplankton of this size were abundant relative to larval fish density, high rates of growth and survival of lake whitefish ensued. In 1984, the prey-per-fish ratio declined greatly, and poor growth and low survival were observed. The dynamics of these early life stages appear to significantly influence both lake whitefish year-class strength and eventual recruitment in Gra...
Vision-only control and guidance for aircraft

An unmanned aerial vehicle usually carries an array of sensors whose output is used to estimate vehicle attitude, velocity, and position. This paper details the development of guidance, navigation, and control strategies for a glider, which is capable of flying a terminal trajectory to a known fixed object using only a single vision sensor. Controlling an aircraft using only vision presents two unique challenges: First, absolute state measurements are not available from a single image; and second, the images must be collected and processed at a high rate to achieve the desired controller performance. The image processor utilizes an integral image representation and a rejective cascade filter to find and classify simple features in the images, reducing the image to the most probable pixel location of the destination object. Then, an extended Kalman filter uses measurements obtained from a single image to estimate the states that would otherwise be unobservable in a single image. In this research, the flights are constrained to keep the destination object in view. The approach is validated through simulation. Finally, experimental data from autonomous flights of a glider, instrumented only with a single nose-mounted camera, intercepting a target window during short low-level flights, are presented. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Growth of vertically aligned bamboo-like carbon nanotubes from ammonia/methane precursors using a platinum catalyst

Abstract Vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes have been synthesized by microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition using ammonia/methane source gas mixtures and a platinum thin film catalyst on thermally oxidized silicon substrates. The SiO2 layer served as a diffusion barrier to reduce PtSi formation and aide the formation of well dispersed catalytic nanoparticles. Nevertheless, some degree of substrate–catalyst interaction occurred even with this diffusion barrier present. Carbon nanotube growth using a relatively thick catalyst film was either inhibited or prevented altogether when increasing the duration of plasma pretreatment or by moving the substrate closer to the center of the plasma. This was primarily attributed to increased substrate–catalyst interactions resulting in catalyst poisoning. Decreasing the plasma pretreatment time or moving the substrate away from the center of the plasma improved the growth, increasing the length of the nanotubes. Varying the catalyst film thickness enabled control of the diameter and density of the carbon nanotubes. Transmission electron microscopy revealed a bamboo-like structure with the orientation of internal compartments consistent with a base-growth mode.
Sodium transport through the amiloride-sensitive Na-Mg pathway of hamster red cells

Previous work showed that in hamster red cells the amiloride-sensitive (AS) Na+ influx of 0.8 mmol/liter cells/hr is not mediated by Na-H exchange as in other red cells, but depends upon intracellular Mg2+ and can be increased by 40-fold by loading cells with Mg2+ to 10 mm. The purpose of this study was to verify the connection of AS Na+ influx with Na-dependent, amiloride-sensitive Mg2+ efflux and to utilize AS Na+ influx to explore that pathway.
Evaluating Loss of Consciousness in the Elderly

In the case of an elderly patient with transient loss of consciousness, the chief differential diagnosis is syncope versus seizure. The most helpful diagnostic aid is a thorough history obtained from both the patient and an observer. The tentative diagnosis based on the history can be confirmed by the findings on physical examination and by such secondary studies as an electroencephalogram and a series of cardiac tests.
A novel off-axis scanning method for an enlarged ellipse cone-beam computed tomography field of view.

Purpose: Current on-board imaging systems commonly used by modern linear accelerators (LINACs) have a limited field of view (FOV) for a cone-beam CT (CBCT) scan, which is typically less than 50 cm. Consequently, truncation artifacts often occur for large patients. The goal of this work is to investigate a novel method to increase the FOV for current on-board CBCT systems. Methods: When a large patient is scanned with CBCT, any region outside the FOV is only partially sampled within a short range of projection angles, and at other angles no x-ray beams may pass through that region. To increase the sampling rate for the region outside the FOV, we have designed a new source trajectory by shifting the center of rotation during a CBCT scan. This resulted in a reduced sampling rate at the central area and increased sampling rate at the edges. The tradeoff led to a more balanced sampling for an enlarged FOV. An iterative algorithm was also developed to reconstruct the CT image under the new sampling scheme using a compressed sensing technique. Results: The method was validated by numerical simulations mimicking a Varian Trilogy CBCT system, and it was found that artifact-free images could be obtainedmore » with the FOV as large as 80 cm. Conclusions: The new CT scanning trajectory can be easily realized under current clinical setup with little modification of the control system, and this can be useful for treating obese patients.« less
Comparison of standard test methods for non-lubricated sliding wear☆

Abstract Increased efforts have been applied in recent years toward more uniformity and standardization of wear testing methods. In view of the diversity of wear test systems and methods of use, such efforts should provide more opportunity for valid comparison of wear data on materials obtained under closely similar test conditions. Establishment of useful tribology data systems, for example, should be facilitated by having available wear data obtained with more uniform testing methodologies. This paper is an analysis of non-lubricated sliding wear data obtained using three standard test methods and geometries: block on ring, crossed cylinder on cylinder and pin on disk. The data discussed here were obtained in interlaboratory testing programs where the conditions were carefully specified, and where the test materials were provided to the different laboratories. Such an approach should have provided the most consistent data and allowed direct comparison of the intrinsic characteristics of the different test methods. However, results showed that when the above-mentioned three tests were carried out under similar load and speed conditions, the typical within-laboratory variation in reproducing wear volume measurements in metal-on-metal sliding was substantial, ranging from 21% to 57%. By comparison, using standard test methods the variation is found to be about 5% for abrasive wear, and also about 5% for erosive wear. These results suggest that the three test methods mentioned above are not sufficiently well controlled in terms of certain critical factors that determine wear rates. Four possible critical factors are identified here. The prospects for using “ruggedness” testing methods based on statistical principles to improve this situation are discussed.
Analyzing Change in Short-Term Longitudinal Research Using Cohort-Sequential Designs.

This article illustrates a method for approximating longitudinal data analysis by combining information from different overlapping age groups to form a single developmental growth curve. Using this method, hypotheses about the form of growth, the extent of individual differences in growth, and factors that affect the rate and pattern of growth are investigated. The example used to illustrate this method examines the growth of externalizing behavior and of negativity in parent-child relationships during early adolescence using assessments from multiple methods and multiple informants. These 3 dimensions changed significantly during this period, with parental negativity increasing more rapidly after age 12. However, there were substantial individual differences in the pattern of change in these dimensions. Gender of child and type of family situation (nondivorced, divorced, and remarried) were investigated as possible factors affecting change.
The impulsivity‐reflectivity dimension of cognitive style

(1976). The impulsivity‐reflectivity dimension of cognitive style. Reading World: Vol. 16, No. 2, pp. 88-96.
Nonlinear control of a supermaneuverable aircraft

This paper describes a technique which may be used to design the flight control system for a highly maneuverable aircraft. The control system was provided to stabilize the dynamics of the aircraft model and allow it to fly simulated, poststall 'supermaneuvers'. Although the aircraft dynamics are highly nonlinear under these conditions, the gain-scheduled, flight control system was designed using basically linear techniques. A manuever generator was implemented to pilot the mathematical model through prescribed optimal trajectories. The control system design performed well while executing maneuvers involving small angular rates where the governing dynamics could be considered linear. However, the performance deteriorated once the model was subjected to high angular rates at high angle of attack.
The Fault Lines of Academic Medicine

Unprecedented advances in biomedical research and the upheaval in health care economics have converged to cause seismic changes in the traditional organization of medical schools and academic health centers. This process is particularly evident in departments of internal medicine. The activities and functions of academic medicine are in the midst of separation and realignment along lines that do not honor historical departmental and divisional boundaries. The organization of a successful medical school or department must be dynamic, constantly serving its constituents to accommodate progress and change and to promote optimal structure for academic productivity.
DLA with two species: Renormalization-group method renormalization-group method☆

Abstract In this paper, we have studied the structure of DLA with two species by using the kinetic real-space renormalization group method introduced by Wang. Following the RG rules and growth processor, We have gained the configuration of 2×2 cell, calculated the fractal dimensions, multifractal spectra, and free energy when different value of p are applied. And we studied the problem of phase transition with different value of p. Our results demonstrate that the change of p doesn't affect the fractal dimension, but can affect the multifractal spectrum and the phase transition.
Nonmetric scaling of line lengths using latencies, similarity, and same-different judgments

An experiment investigating the relation between various ways of deriving psychophysical functions for line length is reported. A two-phase computer-controlled experiment in which the stimuli were pairs of lines was performed. In the first phase, the pair was presented for several seconds and the S was required to make a category judgment of the similarity of the lines. In the second phase, the pair was presented for a very brief period of time and the S decided whether the lines were the same or of different lengths. Three sets of data were analyzed: (1) the similarity judgments, (2) the proportion of correct different judgments, and (3) the latency of the correct different judgments. An individual differences analysis indicated that there were individual differences in the similarity and latency data. This analysis was not applicable to the proportion data. Nonmetric scaling revealed that the psychophysical functions based on all three sets of data were essentially identical