cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Self-Adapting Flexible (SELFLEX) Antenna Array for Changing Conformal Surface Applications

A phased-array test platform for studying the self-adapting capabilities of conformal antennas is developed and presented. Specifically, a four-port 2.45-GHz receiver with voltage controlled phase shifters and attenuators is designed along with four individual printed microstrip patch antennas attached to a conformal surface. Each antenna is connected to the corresponding receiver port with a flexible SMA cable. It is shown that with appropriate phase compensation, the distorted radiation pattern of the array can be recovered as the surface of the conformal array changes shape. This pattern recovery information is then used to develop a new self-adapting flexible 1 t 4 microstrip antenna array with an embedded flexible sensor system. In particular, a flexible resistive sensor is used to measure the deformation of the substrate of a conformal antenna array, while a sensor circuit is used to measure the changing resistance. The circuit then uses this information to control the individual voltage of the phase shifters of each radiating element in the array. It is shown that with appropriate phase compensation, the radiation properties of the array can be autonomously recovered as the surface of the flexible array changes shape during normal operation. Throughout this work, measurements are shown to agree with analytical solutions and simulations.
Lichen planus subtropicus: direct immunofluorescence findings and therapeutic response to hydroxychloroquine.

A 32-year-old black woman presented with the complained of a l-year history of asymptomatic “dark areas” on her face and neck. New lesions developed throughout this time and, once present, slowly increased in size and persisted. She denied systemic symptoms, including arthralgias and myalgias. Her occupation as a real estate agent involved frequent outdoor work. The family history was noncontributory. On physical examination there were multiple hyperpig-mented round-to-oval macules and papules measuring from 0.5 to 2.0 cm in diameter and located over the photoexposed lateral aspects of the face and neck (Figs. 1 and 2). New lesions were papules characterized by a subtle, raised “thread-like” border (Fig. 1, arrow). Older lesions were mac-ular, some with a slightly atrophic, hypopigmented center (Fig. 1, Flesh-colored polygonal papules were present in the V-shaped area on the anterior neck (Fig. 2). The remainder of the cutaneous examination, including the oral mucosa, was unremarkable. Histopathologic examination of a flesh-colored papule viewed on low power revealed a bandlike lymphohistiocytic infiltrate that focally obscured the dermoepidermal junction. Numerous homogenous eosinophilic bodies (Civatte bodies, cytoid bodies, apoptotic cells) and scattered melanophages were identified. In addition, there was epidermal hyperplasia, overlying orthokeratosis, and V-shaped hyper-granulosis. The rete was jagged and possessed a slightly eosinophilic hue (Fig. 3). Hyperpigmented, oval macules had a more patchy lichenoid infiltrate, less epidermal hyperplasia, but possessed a greater number of melanophages in the papillary dermis than new lesions. Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) stained sections of either type of specimen were negative for basement membrane thickening and also negative for dermal mucin using the colloidal iron reagent. No deposits of immunoglobulin or complement were identified at the dermoepidermal junction by direct immunofluorescence microscopy, but numerous immunoglobulin-coated cytoid bodies were present. Laboratory testing was significant for a negative antinu-clear antibody (ANA) reaction and RPR. A complete blood cell count, results of serum chemistry, and the angiotensin converting enzyme level were within normal limits. Chest roentgenogram revealed no active cardiopulmonary disease. Based on the distinctive histopathology and the impressive, characteristic clinical presentation, the diagnosis of lichen planus subtropicus was made. Therapy with hydroxy-chloroquine 200 mg per day, topical hydrocortisone valerate 0.2% cream b.i.d. to inflammatory lesions, 3% hydroquinone solution b.i.d. to hyperpigmented lesions, and photoprotection were initiated. Partial resolution of the lichenoid lesions has occurred, new lesions have ceased to appear, and the hyperpigmentation has slightly improved.
Approach to clustering large visual databases using wavelet transform

Many applications demand the capability of retrieval based on image content. A classification mechanism is needed to categorize images based on feature similarity. An effective classification of the images can support efficient retrieval of images. In this paper, we investigate a feature-based approach to image clustering and retrieval. Four different texture-based feature sets of images are extracted using Haar and Daubechies wavelet transforms. Using multi- resolution property of wavelets, we extract the features at different levels. The experimental results of our clustering approach on air photo images are reported.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Matching with multiple control groups with adjustment for group differences

When estimating causal effects from observational data, it is desirable to approximate a randomized experiment as closely as possible. This goal can often be achieved by choosing a subsample from the original control group that matches the treatment group on the distribution of the observed covariates. However, sometimes the original control group cannot provide adequate matches for the treatment group. This article presents a method to obtain matches from multiple control groups. In addition to adjusting for differences in observed covariates between the groups, the method adjusts for a group effect that distinguishes between the control groups. This group effect captures the additional otherwise unobserved differences between the control groups, beyond that accounted for by the observed covariates. The method is illustrated and evaluated using data from an evaluation of a school drop-out prevention program that uses matches from both local and nonlocal control groups.
Persistent errors (in electrical engineering literature)

Two venerable errors found in textbooks since the early days of electrical engineering (namely diode demodulator or envelope detector distortion and power factor definition) are mentioned as examples of what must always be expected. A tentative plan is offered for purging such errors, as they are discovered, from the literature. >
Bone Fragility in Broilers as Affected by Pen Height, Sex, and a Comparison of Left and Right Humeri

Humeri and tibiotarsi breaking strengths were determined for broilers raised in pens of varying heights. Five hundred forty-four broilers were reared in conventional floor pens or wire cages on the floor with overhead restrictions of 20, 30, 40, or 60 cm. No significant differences were noted on growth, feed conversion or tibiotarsi breaking strength. Height-restricted broilers had significantly weaker humeri than did the controls. A significant linear relationship (P less than .05) was noted in height-restricted broilers in that as pen height increased so did humeri strength. Further studies were conducted to test for significant differences between male and female humeri strength and between right and left humeri on the same bird. Forty-six pairs of female and male humeri were obtained, tagged for identity, and broken on the Instron Model 1122. Males had significantly stronger humeri than females and right humeri were significantly stronger than left humeri in both sexes.
Continuing use of low‐income services by former Missouri welfare recipients

This chapter examines the degree of self-sufficiency and the need for sustained income supports among leavers in Missouri.
Analysis of boiling flat-plate collectors

A detailed model for use with TRNSYS, capable of modelling a wide range of boiling collector types, was used to analyze boiling flat-plate collector systems. This model can account for a subcooled liquid entering the collector, heat losses in the vapor and the liquid return line, pressure drops due to friction in the collector and piping, and pressure drops due to the hydrostatic head of the fluid. The model has been used to determine the yearly performance of boiling flat-plate solar collector systems. A simplified approach was also developed which can be used with the f-Chart method to predict yearly performance of boiling flat-plate collector systems.
Infinitesimal CR automorphisms of rigid hypersurfaces in C2

In this paper, we describe the space of infinitesimal CR automorphisms of a rigid, real analytic, real hypersurface in C2. We use these results to obtain a geometric characterization of the homogeneous hypersurfaces. Here, a hypersurface is called homogeneous if it is equivalent to one given by an equation of the formIm(w) =p wherep is a homogeneous polynomial inz and\(\bar z\). This gives an answer in dimension 2 to a problem posed by Linda Rothschild. We give another answer, in terms of a normal form for the defining function, in our paper “A normal form for rigid hypersurfaces in C2.”
A Sensor-Based Dual-Arm Tele-Robotic System

We present a novel system to achieve coordinated task-based control on a dual-arm industrial robot for the general tasks of visual servoing and bimanual hybrid motion/force control. The industrial robot, consisting of a rotating torso and two seven degree-of-freedom arms, performs autonomous vision-based target alignment of both arms with the aid of fiducial markers, two-handed grasping and force control, and robust object manipulation in a tele-robotic framework. The operator uses hand motions to command the desired position for the object via Microsoft Kinect while the autonomous force controller maintains a stable grasp. Gestures detected by the Kinect are also used to dictate different operation modes. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach using a variety of common objects with different sizes, shapes, weights, and surface compliances.
SUPERCONDUCTOR-INSULATOR TRANSITION IN TWO DIMENSIONS

The superconductor-insulator transition of ultrathin films of bismuth, grown on liquid-helium-cooled substrates, has been studied. The transition was tuned by changing both film thickness and perpendicular magnetic field. Assuming that the transition is controlled by a T50 critical point, a finite-size scaling analysis was carried out to determine the correlation length exponent n and the dynamical critical exponent z. The phase diagram and the critical resistance have been studied as a function of film thickness and magnetic field. The results are discussed in terms of bosonic models of the superconductor-insulator transition, as well as the percolation models which predict finite dissipation at T50. @S0163-1829~99!05129-2#
More Complexities in Subtraction

Four ways in which subtraction is more difficult than addition are discussed: Verbal solutions are not always parallel to object solutions. Two correct methods exist for counting down a certain number of words, and these methods may interfere with each other. Special problems exist with subtraction on the number line. And subtraction is not just take away but has multiple situational interpretations. These points, along with some recent research results, suggest the research question: Should children be taught to solve subtraction statements such as 8 5 = ? by counting up from 5 to 8?
Matching knowledge elements in concept maps using a similarity flooding algorithm

Concept mapping systems used in education and knowledge management emphasize flexibility of representation to enhance learning and facilitate knowledge capture. Collections of concept maps exhibit terminology variance, informality, and organizational variation. These factors make it difficult to match elements between maps in comparison, retrieval, and merging processes. In this work, we add an element anchoring mechanism to a similarity flooding (SF) algorithm to match nodes and substructures between pairs of simulated maps and student-drawn concept maps. Experimental results show significant improvement over simple string matching with combined recall accuracy of 91% for conceptual nodes and concept →link → concept propositions in student-drawn maps.
Internetworking an urban community : A longitudinal study of approaches to introducing adult new users to electronic information resources

Abstract Using four test groups, the study compared the efficacy of different approaches to introducing urban adults, including librarians in public libraries, to Internet resources. Models tested included two training period lengths (cursory and in-depth) and two computer interfaces (text-based and graphical) to Internet resources. Two post-test assessments were administered to determine effects of approaches tested on participant skills and attitudes. Findings suggest that the interface used does not significantly affect the users' ability to find information on the Internet. However, longer training did produce better searching, at least initially. User confidence in using a range of tools varied for each resource. Follow-up assessment indicated that differences in user attitudes among the groups decreased over time.
THE GROWTH OF THE OVARIAN FOLLICLE OF THE GUINEA PIG UNDER NORMAL AND PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS.

1. The growth .energy of the granulosa cells in the ovarian follicles of normal guinea pig ovaries varies with the size of the follcle, and follows a definite growth curve. The growth energy in small follicles is relatively low, then a gradual rise takes place with increase in size of the follicle up to a maximum which is reached when the follicle attains medium size. This ascending part of the curve is followed by a gradual fall in growth energy until in large follicles the proliferative power has fallen almost to the level of small follicles. Synchronously with maturity of the follicles there is an abrupt fall in growth energy to near the zero point. 2. There is a distinct localization of mitoses in the follicle. The large majority of mitoses is found in the perioval part. With increase in the growth energy which characterizes medium follicles, there is an increase in the proliferative power of the cells more distal to the egg, but still near the egg. We may therefore conclude on the basis of our observations and on the previous observations of Loeb, that the egg exerts a stimulus, which causes proliferation of the granulosa cells. 3. Under pathological conditions certain changes occur in the growth energy of the follicle: (a) Granulosa degeneration causes in the living cells a diminution in the proliferative power which is proportionate to the extent of the degeneration. (b) Hypotypical follicles have approximately the same or only slightly diminished proliferative power as normal ones, and thus their failure to grow is essentially due to disintegration of the granulosa cells.
Reliability and validity of brief psychosocial measures related to dietary behaviors.

Measures of psychosocial constructs are required to assess dietary interventions. This study evaluated brief psychosocial scales related to 4 dietary behaviors (consumption of fat, fiber/whole grains, fruits, and vegetables). Two studies were conducted. Study 1 assessed two-week reliability of the psychosocial measures with a sample of 49 college students. Study 2 assessed convergent and discriminant validity of the psychosocial measures with dietary nutrient estimates from a Food Frequency Questionnaire on 441 men and 401 women enrolled in an Internet-based weight loss intervention study. Study 1 test-retest reliability ICCs were strong and ranged from .63 to .79. In study 2, dietary fat cons, fiber/whole grain cons and self-efficacy, fruit and vegetable cons and self-efficacy, and healthy eating social support, environmental factors, enjoyment, and change strategies demonstrated adequate correlations with the corresponding dietary nutrient estimates. Brief psychosocial measures related to dietary behaviors demonstrated adequate reliability and in most cases validity. The strongest and most consistent scales related to dietary behaviors were healthy eating change strategies and enjoyment. Consistent convergent validity was also found for the cons of change scales. These measures can be used in intervention studies to evaluate psychosocial mediators of dietary change in overweight and obese individuals.
Beyond coronary thrombolysis.

Coronary heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States, is responsible for 500 000 deaths annually. Furthermore, 5 to 6 million individuals in this country suffer from symptomatic coronary disease, with the potential to sustain an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Pump failure is the most common cause of death following AMI and is determined by the extent of myocardial necrosis. Therefore, methods to limit infarct size have been vigorously sought. The pathogenesis of AMI in general and the contributory role of intracoronary thrombosis in particular have been debated for decades. However, the work of DeWood et al, 1 performing coronary angiography during the early stages of AMI, has established an occlusive thrombus as the primary event in transmural myocardial infarction. Having recognized this important fact, attention quickly turned to interventional therapies designed to remove intracoronary thrombus, thereby restoring myocardial blood flow. 2,3 Early investigations utilizing clot lysing
Effects of recruitment, growth, and exploitation on walleye population size structure in northern Wisconsin lakes

Abstract We evaluated the dynamics of walleye Sander vitreus population size structure, as indexed by the proportional size distribution (PSD) of quality-length fish, in Escanaba Lake during 1967–2003 and in 204 other lakes in northern Wisconsin during 1990–2011. We estimated PSD from angler-caught walleyes in Escanaba Lake and from spring electrofishing in 204 other lakes, and then related PSD to annual estimates of recruitment to age-3, length at age 3, and annual angling exploitation rate. In Escanaba Lake during 1967–2003, annual estimates of PSD were highly dynamic, growth (positively) explained 35% of PSD variation, recruitment explained only 3% of PSD variation, and exploitation explained only 7% of PSD variation. In 204 other northern Wisconsin lakes during 1990–2011, PSD varied widely among lakes, recruitment (negatively) explained 29% of PSD variation, growth (positively) explained 21% of PSD variation, and exploitation explained only 4% of PSD variation. We conclude that population size structu...
Effect of the intersection of the individual isotherms in displacement chromatography

Abstract Neither the existence of an intersection between the two single-component isotherms drawn on the same graph, nor the fact that the column saturation capacity for the more retained component is lower than that of the lesser retained component, have any major consequence on the chromatographic behavior of elution bands or on the formation of the isotachich train, as long as the equilibrium isotherms of the two components are properly described by the competitive Langmuir model. Significant deviation from this model could make impossible the formation of an isotachic train in displacement chromatography, but definitive experimental proof of the existence of this effect is lacking.
Eyes Under The Sea

The United States Navy is interested in underwater imaging for obvious reasons, National defense, reconnaissance/surveillance, research and development. Since the early 1950's, Navy studies in underwater imaging have led to improvements in optic technologies and camera systems providing valuable documentation tools for the Fleet. Today, a specialized team of qualified underwater photographers continue to place itself in position to see things engineers, designers, and fleet commanders are not able to see, providing an often unique view of our underwater environment.
Cluster ion formation in laser mass spectrometry of substituted pyridines

Abstract Emission of cluster ions occurs during laser irradiation of substituted pyridines even at threshold laser power densities. The clusters generated include dimers and trimers, and appear in both positive-ion and negative-ion laser mass spectra. Fragments of cluster ions are observed and can be rationlized as losses of neutral molecules from (nM ± H)±. Dissociation of clusters occurs primarily from substituents on the pyridine ring. Laser mass spectrometry of pyridoxine hydrochloride and pyridoxamine-dihydrochloride resulted in the emission of clusters analogous to those observed for nicotinic acid. In contrast to these results, secondary-ion and field-desorption mass spectra of salts contain the ions CnAn−1+ and CnAn+1−, that were not detected in the laser mass spectra.
It's a myth that protection against disease is a strong and general service of biodiversity conservation: Response to Ostfeld and Keesing

2 Ostfeld, R.S. (2011) Lyme Disease: The Ecology of a Complex System.Oxford University Press3 Ostfeld, R.S. and Keesing, F. (2000) Biodiversity and disease risk: thecase of Lyme disease. Conserv. Biol. 14, 722–7284 Keesing,F.etal.(2006)Effectsofspeciesdiversityondiseaserisk.Ecol.Lett. 9, 485–4985 Ostfeld, R.S. and Keesing, F. (2012) Effects of host diversity oninfectious disease. Annu. Rev. Ecol. Evol. Syst. 43, 157–1826 Cardinale, B.J. et al. (2012) Biodiversity loss and its impact onhumanity. Nature 486, 59–677 Bonds, M.H. et al. (2012) Disease ecology, biodiversity, and thelatitudinal gradient in income. PLoS Biol. 10, e10014568
A direct radioassay of methylmalonyl-coenzyme A mutase using enzymatically synthesized dl-[3-14C]methylmalonyl-CoA

Abstract 1. (1) dl -[3-14C]Methylmalonyl-Coenzyme A was enzymatically synthesized from propionyl-CoA and [14C]NaHCO3 (specific activity 5 μCi/μmole) employing propionyl-CoA carboxylase activity prepared from bovine liver. A net yield of 25%, based on propionyl-CoA of the purified product was achieved, having a specific activity of 4.1 μCi/μmole. 2. (2) Purity of the dl -[14C]methylmalonyl-CoA was found to be about 90% and was based on (a) extent of decarboxylation under “back reaction conditions” of propionyl-CoA carboxylase, (b) thin layer chromatography of the thioester, (c) gas-liquid chromatography of the dimethylester derivative of [3-14C]methylmalonic acid, following deacylation. 3. (3) The purified product was fairly stable when stored at −80°C in vacuo, undergoing decarboxylation at a rate of 4% per month. 4. (4) Methylmalonyl-CoA mutase activity was measured in human liver preparations employing purified dl -[3-14C]methylmalonyl-CoA. Activity was based on the rate of formation of [14C]succinyl-CoA, the latter determined as the free acid isolated on thin layer chromatography. Activity was linear over a 20-minute time course in the presence of 1.25 units of enzyme and also with respect to enzyme concentration over a 1–11 unit range of enzyme activity under routine assay conditions.
Graphene nanoribbon crossbar nanomesh

Graphene nanoribbon crossbars exhibit negative differential resistance. This nonlinear current-voltage response can be exploited in a nanomesh geometry for high-density logic or memory. A 2xN crossbar array can store 3N states. Proof-of-principle of a high functional density architecture exploiting the non-linear dynamics of graphene nanoribbon crossbars in a nanomesh geometry is demonstrated.
Tissue Engineering by Molecular Disassembly and Reassembly: Biomimetic Retention of Mechanically Functional Aggrecan in Hydrogel

In vitro assembly of key functional extracellular matrix constituents for tissue-engineered constructs may provide a tool to modulate the retention of proteoglycan (PG) aggregates, which are crucial to compressive biomechanical properties of connective tissues. This study tested the hypotheses that (1) biomimetic molecular reassembly of PG aggregates (native aggrecan [AGC] with hyaluronan [HA] ± link protein [LP]) affects AGC retention kinetics in hydrogel constructs, (2) the compressive properties of such hydrogel constructs are related to the content of retained AGC, and (3) the reassembly method is compatible with chondrocytes. Addition of HA to AGC in hydrogel constructs increased AGC retention in a dose-dependent manner, and the addition of LP to AGC + HA further enhanced AGC retention. The level of AGC retention, in turn, was associated with increased equilibrium compressive stress of the constructs. Chondrocytes could be included in the process, and maintained expression of the chondrogenic phenoty...
Public Health Potential of a Disability Tracking System: Analysis of U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Physical Evaluation Boards 2005–2006

ABSTRACT Clinical and demographic data in administrative disability tracking systems have the potential to support disability reduction programs. We analyzed recent Navy Physical Evaluation Board data, compared our findings with previous studies, and evaluated the quality of the case-tracking database as a public health information system. The overall rate of cases was 50% higher than in 2000 and 40% higher than the rate of new long-term group disability insurance claims. The most common diagnostic categories remain musculoskeletal disorders, injuries and poisonings, mental health conditions, and neurological syndromes. Diagnosis rates have increased in every category since 2000. The tracking system provided unprecedented timeliness and data accessibility, but fell short of its full potential as a public health tool due to poor information quality. Improved interface design and data entry processes combined with improved reporting capability will enhance its epidemiological value. Continued system improve...
Vascular thoracic outlet syndrome: successful outcomes with multimodal therapy1

Abstract Purpose: Vascular thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) can present with signs of arterial impingement or, more commonly, as venous obstruction. In an effort to decrease morbidity associated with vascular thoracic outlet syndrome, we have used an aggressive multimodal treatment approach. Methods: Since November 1992, we have evaluated 29 patients with vascular thoracic outlet syndrome. Nine of ten patients with arterial thoracic outlet syndrome had first rib resections. Eighteen of 19 patients with venous occlusion underwent anticoagulation, thrombolysis, and first rib resection. Eight patients required additional endovascular therapy for persistent stenoses, either venous angioplasty alone (2) or angioplasty plus stent placement (6). Results: Follow up extends to 75 months with a mean of 24 months. Patients with stents have been followed for a mean of 38 months. Twenty-five of 28 patients managed with multimodal therapy were essentially asymptomatic at last follow up. Conclusion: Thrombolysis, anticoagulation, surgical decompression, and endovascular procedures act synergistically to improve results of therapy in patients with vascular thoracic outlet syndrome.
Asymptomatic bacteriuria: when the treatment is worse than the disease.

Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ABU) is defined by the presence of bacteria in the urine of a patient without signs or symptoms related to UTI. A common condition that is often treated unnecessarily with antibiotics, ABU should be detected and treated in pregnant women and patients undergoing urologic surgery, but in most other patient groups, treatment does not confer benefit and can be harmful. In this Review, Trautner discusses the science behind ABU, when it should be treated, and what is being done to change the prescribing behavior of physicians managing a patient with ABU. Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ABU) is a condition in which bacteria are present in a noncontaminated urine sample collected from a patient without signs or symptoms related to the urinary tract. ABU must be distinguished from symptomatic UTI by the absence of signs and symptoms compatible with UTI or by clinical determination that a nonurinary etiology accounts for the patient's symptoms. Interactions between the organism, the host, and the bladder environment determine whether bacteriuria leads to ABU or to UTI. ABU is a very common condition that is often treated unnecessarily with antibiotics—it should be detected and treated in pregnant women and patients undergoing urologic surgery, but in most other patient groups, treatment does not confer benefit and can be harmful. A change in prescribing behavior for ABU has been achieved through several fairly high-intensity interventions, such as interactive educational sessions for physicians, but whether these improvements persist beyond the study period is not known. Further research is needed to determine whether screening for and treatment of ABU is beneficial in patients with renal transplants, patients with orthotopic neobladders, patients undergoing prosthetic joint implantation, and patients with neutropenia.
Homoleptic complexes of Ag(I), Cu(I), Pd(II) and Pt(II) with tetrathiafulvalene-functionalized phosphine ligands

Homoleptic complexes of the type [M(L–L)2]+/2+ where L–L is a chelating tetrathiafulvalene-based phosphine ligand have been synthesized and fully characterized by X-ray crystallography, 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopy and electrochemistry. In this study, square-planar cations of Pd(II) and Pt(II) with tetrakis(diphenylphosphino)-tetrathiafulvalene (P4) and tetrahedral cations of Ag(I) and Cu(I) with 3,4-dimethyl-3′,4′-bis(diphenylphosphino)tetrathiafulvalene (o-P2) have been isolated. X-Ray studies of six different crystalline compounds revealed that the conformation of the TTF (tetrathiafulvalene) substituents is highly influenced by crystal packing forces. As judged by the remarkable similarity of each Pd/Pt or Cu/Ag pair, the solid-state structures are independent of the identity of the metal. Electrochemical studies indicate that the TTF redox centers on the different phosphine ligands are electronically isolated in these compounds.
Understanding tourists' itineraries in emerging rural tourism regions: the application of paper-based itinerary mapping methodology to a wine tourism region in Michigan

In recent years, many rural areas have turned to tourism as a way of reviving their communities. One challenge to such efforts is that community leaders in these areas often have limited experience with tourism and consequently lack the knowledge and resources to best facilitate sustainable tourism initiatives. Moreover, an influx of tourists to an area puts new demands on infrastructure. Information about tourists' itineraries can help communities to address new challenges that result from tourism, however using emerging technologies such as GPS and Internet-based map surveys can be expensive and require expertise many rural tourism planners do not have. Paper-based itinerary mapping methodology can be a cost effective way of providing local officials, tourism planners, and businesses with important information to inform decisions about how to invest limited resources. This study applies paper-based itinerary mapping to an emerging wine tourism area in a rural county in the US state of Michigan. Because ...
The theory of the estimation of test reliability

The theoretically best estimate of the reliability coefficient is stated in terms of a precise definition of the equivalence of two forms of a test. Various approximations to this theoretical formula are derived, with reference to several degrees of completeness of information about the test and to special assumptions. The familiar Spearman-Brown Formula is shown to be a special case of the general formulation of the problem of reliability. Reliability coefficients computed in various ways are presented for comparative purposes.
Born Again Christians in the Bible Belt: A Study in Religion, Politics and Ideology

We have investigated the extent to which “born-again” Christians constitute a distinct political subgroup. Our specific research concerns are essentially twofold. First, we have examined the attitudes of born-again Christians compared to those who are not born-again toward clerical involvement in political activity. Second, orientations toward four salient issues have been examined: the proposed Equal Rights Amendment, a balanced federal budget, increased military spending, and the proposed constitutional amendment to ban abortion. Concerning the second set of orientations, the effects of education and age have been examined as well. In general, the findings reveal that born-again Christians do constitute a distinct political subgroup. They are inclined to support religious leaders taking a public stand on political issues, although there are clear limits on what they perceive as legitimate involvement. Political conservatism of born-again Christians is revealed by the fact that they consistently take a m...
A volatility index for comets

The variations in total brightness of a comet when it is most active, near perihelion, are presently used as the bases of a volatility index (VI) for short-period (SP) and long-period (LP) comets. Volatility does not correlate with period among the LP comets, and thereby shows no 'aging' effect; similarly, the VI measurements are the same for SP and for LP comets and exhibit no correlation with (1) absolute magnitude near perihelion, (2) orbital inclination, or (3) activity index measuring the intrinsic brightness change from great solar distances to the maximum near perihelion. Active comets are shown to be basically alike irrespective of their orbits or 'ages'.
The emotional nature of rescue medicine assessments.

Dr. Garrett (2015) opens his article with an eloquent description of a very emotional reaction: “Few situations capture attention and compel action, in medicine and elsewhere, like opportunities to...
The postnatal emergence of dehydration anorexia in rats is temporally associated with the emergence of dehydration-induced inhibition of gastric emptying

Abstract CALLAHAN, J. B. AND L. RINAMAN. The postnatal emergence of dehydration anorexia in rats is temporally associated with the emergence of dehydration-induced inhibition of gastric emptying. PHYSIOL BEHAV 64 (5) 683–687, 1998.—Osmotic dehydration produced by systemic hypertonic NaCl (HS) inhibits gastric motility and emptying and also inhibits feeding in adult rats. Conversely, in neonatal rats, dehydration does not inhibit feeding. The present study examined whether the postnatal emergence of dehydration anorexia is temporally associated with the emergence of dehydration-induced inhibition of gastric emptying. Rat pups 4 to 19 days old were injected subcutaneously with HS (0.75 m NaCl; 200 μL/10 g body weight). Control rats were injected with isotonic saline (0.15 m NaCl). Thirty minutes later, rats were given access to milk that could be lapped from paper towels on the floor of a warm testing chamber. Other HS-treated and control rats were given an intragastric load of 0.15 m NaCl (2% body weight) and then killed after 30 min to determine how much of the load had emptied from the stomach. Consistent with previous reports, HS-treated rats consumed significantly more milk than control rats from postnatal Day 4 (P4) through P11 but consumed significantly less milk than controls at P19. HS treatment did not affect gastric emptying of 0.15 m NaCl at P4 or P11. Conversely, HS treatment significantly inhibited gastric emptying at P19. These findings suggest that the hypophagic effects of dehydration develop in tandem with inhibitory effects on gastric motility and are consistent with the view that the full complement of mature homeostatic responses to plasma hyperosmolality requires coordinated activation of forebrain and hindbrain neural circuits that are only partially formed in neonatal rats.
Structural and vibrational properties of amorphous phosphorus

Thin films of amorphous P, prepared by rf sputter deposition under conditions of variable substrate temperature, have been studied using x-ray diffraction and Raman scattering methods. The low-angle x-ray spectra indicate a peak at $k\ensuremath{\simeq}1.1$ ${\mathrm{\AA{}}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, whose half-width and relative intensity are a continuous function of deposition temperature. The diffraction spectra provide evidence for continuously variable intermediate-range order as a function of deposition temperature. The polarized and depolarized Raman components indicate substantial changes with deposition temperature associated with the development of a number of high-frequency spectral features. Modifications of the depolarized Raman spectra, as well as differences between the phonon density of states and depolarized bulk spectra, provide additional evidence for intermediate-range order. The x-ray and Raman spectra imply structural and dynamical correlations in amorphous solids of intermediate range and further suggest that such correlations are continuously variable. The experimental results are discussed in terms of a layerlike model with variable intralayer and interlayer correlations. As in crystalline solids, it appears that structural correlations are a prerequisite for dynamical correlations for optical-like modes.
The Effect of Integration on Recall of Counterintuitive Stories

Research on the cognitive foundations of cultural transmission has recently demonstrated that concepts which minimally violate one domain-specific ontological category expectation, or "minimally counterintuitive" concepts (MCI), are better recalled, all else being equal, than "intuitive" concepts (INT), which do not violate domain-specific ontological expectations. In addition, memory for MCI concepts is better than memory for "maximally counterintuitive concepts" (MXCI), or concepts which violate more than one domain-specifi c ontological expectation. Thus, MCI items appear to enjoy a memory advantage, although these effects are heavily affected by context. The present experiment was designed to investigate the influence of integration on the MCI effect. Participants memorized a series of stories that were either intuitive (INT), minimally counterintuitive (MCI), or maximally counterintuitive (MXCI). In addition, the stories were either causally integrated or not. Cued recall results suggested that integration of a story is a significant factor influencing memory performance. We argue that these results are complimentary to the MCI hypothesis.
Reduction of Z-Transfer-Function Matrices by Means of the Mixed Method

The mixed method of Shieh and Wei which utilizes the dominant-eigenvalue concept and the continued fraction approach is extended to the z domain to simplify z domain-transfer-function matrices with various dimensions. The reduced model is always stable and the dominant performance of the original system is retained.
Microcirculation of the islets of Langerhans. Long Beach Veterans Administration Regional Medical Education Center Symposium.

T o discuss the controversy of the current concept of islet microcirculation, an international symposium was held at the Long Beach Veterans Administration Regional Medical Education Center (Long Beach, C:A) and broadcast over the Internet via the world Wide Web to 14 international stations. Studies concerning three models of islet microcirculation, mantle-to-core, coreto-mantle, and polar, were presented. One presentation, including an interactive question and answer session, was broadcast from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) and received by the symposium participants in Long Beach, as well as by the 14 stations. The fundamental differences between the models, i.e., the relationship of the microcirculation flow pattern and the islet cell composition, were discussed in an open forum with critiques of techniques, results, and interpretations. Each islet has from one to five arterioles, which penetrate into the islet and divide into numerous capillaries (1-4). The capillaries, resembling a glomerulus, course through the islet in a tortuous fashion that is ideal for cell-blood and bloodcell interactions. The a-, p-, 6-, and PP-cells, which secrete glucagon, insulin, somatostatin, and pancreatic polypeptide, respectively, are nestled between the capillaries and receive their nutrient, hormonal, and neurohormonal regulatory signals across the capillary endothelium, as well as through the interstitial space (5,6). Since the cell types have specific locations within the islet, the pattern of blood flow through the islet should have a significant impact on the ability of cells to intercommunicate within the islet. It is this relationship that represents the controversial topic that was the focus of the symposium. The following is a review of the
Endogenous rhythms and entrainment cues of larval activity in the horseshoe crab Limulus polyphemus

Abstract The American horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus (Linnaeus), typically inhabits estuaries and coastal areas with pronounced semi-diurnal and diurnal tides that are used to synchronize the timing of spawning, larval hatching, and emergence. Horseshoe crabs spawn in the intertidal zone of sandy beaches and larval emergence occurs when the larvae exit the sediments and enter the plankton. However, L. polyphemus populations also occur in areas that lack significant tidal changes and associated synchronization cues. Endogenous activity rhythms that match predictable environmental cycles may enable larval horseshoe crabs to time swimming activity to prevent stranding on the beach. To determine if L. polyphemus larvae possess a circatidal rhythm in vertical swimming, larvae collected from beach nests and the plankton were placed under constant conditions and their activity monitored for 72 h. Time-series analyses of the activity records revealed a circatidal rhythm with a free-running period of ≈ 12.5 h. Maximum swimming activity consistently occurred during the time of expected falling tides, which may serve to reduce the chance of larvae being stranded on the beach and aid in seaward transport by ebb currents (i.e., ebb-tide transport). To determine if agitation serves as the entrainment cue, larvae were shaken on a 12.4 h cycle to simulate conditions during high tide in areas with semi-diurnal tides. When placed under constant conditions, larval swimming increased near the expected times of agitation. Thus, endogenous rhythms of swimming activity of L . polyphemus larvae in both tidal and nontidal systems may help synchronize swimming activity with periods of high water and inundation.
Topical Retinoic Acid Enhances the Repair of Ultraviolet Damaged Dermal Connective Tissue

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation induces excessive accumulations of elastic fibers in animal and human skin. Collagen is damaged and glycosaminoglycans are vastly increased. Formerly considered an irreversible change, we recently showed, post-irradiation, that a band of normal connective tissue was laid down subepidermally . Because of its ability to stimulate fibroblasts and enhance healing of wounds, we thought it likely that retinoic acid (RA) would promote the formation of this subepidermal zone of reconstruction. Hairless mice were irradiated for 10 weeks with Westinghouse FS20 sunlamps for a total UV dose of 7 J/cm2. Then, 0.05% RA was applied for 5 and 10 weeks. Observations were made by light and electron microscopy. In contrast to controls treated with vehicle, the reconstruction zone was significantly wider in RA-treated mice. The enhanced repair was dose related. Histochemically and ultrastructurally, collagen was normal, fibroblasts were numerous and in a configuration of high metabolic activity.
The Size–Frequency Distribution of the Zodiacal Cloud: Evidence from the Solar System Dust Bands

Recent observations of the size–frequency distribution of zodiacal cloud particles obtained from the cratering record on the LDEF satellite are the latest evidence for a significant large particle population (100-μm diameter or greater) near 1 AU. Our previous modeling of the Solar System dust bands, features of the zodiacal cloud associated with the comminution of Hirayama family asteroids, has been limited by the fact that only small particles (25-μm diameter or smaller) have been considered. This was due to the prohibitively large amount of computing power required to numerically analyze the dynamics of larger particles. The recent availability of inexpensive, fast processors has finally made this work possible. Models of the dust bands are created, built from individual dust particle orbits, taking into account a size–frequency distribution of the material and the dynamical history of the constituent particles. These models are able to match both the shapes and amplitudes of the dust band structures observed by IRAS in multiple wavebands. The size–frequency index, q, that best matches the observations is approximately 1.4, a distribution in which the surface area (and hence the infrared emission) is dominated by large particles. However, in order to successfully model the “ten degree” band, which is usually associated with collisional activity within the Eos family, we find that the mean proper inclination of the dust particle orbits has to be approximately 9.35°, significantly different from the mean proper inclination of the Eos family (10.08°).
The spectral networks paradigm in high throughput mass spectrometry

High-throughput proteomics is made possible by a combination of modern mass spectrometry instruments capable of generating many millions of tandem mass (MS2) spectra on a daily basis and the increasingly sophisticated associated software for their automated identification. Despite the growing accumulation of collections of identified spectra and the regular generation of MS2 data from related peptides, the mainstream approach for peptide identification is still the nearly two decades old approach of matching one MS2 spectrum at a time against a database of protein sequences. Moreover, database search tools overwhelmingly continue to require that users guess in advance a small set of 4–6 post-translational modifications that may be present in their data in order to avoid incurring substantial false positive and negative rates. The spectral networks paradigm for analysis of MS2 spectra differs from the mainstream database search paradigm in three fundamental ways. First, spectral networks are based on matching spectra against other spectra instead of against protein sequences. Second, spectral networks find spectra from related peptides even before considering their possible identifications. Third, spectral networks determine consensus identifications from sets of spectra from related peptides instead of separately attempting to identify one spectrum at a time. Even though spectral networks algorithms are still in their infancy, they have already delivered the longest and most accurate de novo sequences to date, revealed a new route for the discovery of unexpected post-translational modifications and highly-modified peptides, enabled automated sequencing of cyclic non-ribosomal peptides with unknown amino acids and are now defining a novel approach for mapping the entire molecular output of biological systems that is suitable for analysis with tandem mass spectrometry. Here we review the current state of spectral networks algorithms and discuss possible future directions for automated interpretation of spectra from any class of molecules.