cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tissue-specific deletion of Crry from mouse proximal tubular epithelial cells increases susceptibility to renal ischemia–reperfusion injury

The murine cell surface protein Crry (complement receptor 1–related protein/gene y) is a key complement regulator with similar activities to human membrane cofactor protein (MCP) and decay-accelerating factor. MCP has a critical role in preventing complement-mediated tissue injury and its mutation has been implicated in several human kidney diseases. The study of Crry in mice has relevance to understanding MCP activity in human diseases; however, such efforts have been hampered by the embryonic lethality phenotype of Crry gene knockout. Here we used a conditional gene–targeting approach and deleted Crry from the mouse proximal tubular epithelial cells where Crry is prominently expressed. Absence of Crry from proximal tubular epithelial cells resulted in spontaneous C3 deposition on the basolateral surface but no apparent renal disease in unchallenged mice. However, mice deficient in Crry on proximal tubular epithelial cells developed exacerbated renal injury when subjected to renal ischemia–reperfusion, showing increased blood urea nitrogen levels, higher tubular injury scores, more tubular epithelial cell apoptosis, and inflammatory infiltrates. Renal ischemia–reperfusion injury in the Crry conditional knockout mice was prevented by blocking C3 and C5 activation using an anti-properdin or anti-C5 monoclonal antibody (mAb), respectively. Thus, Crry has a critical role in protecting proximal tubular epithelial cells during ischemia–reperfusion challenge. Our results highlight the latent risk for inflammatory kidney injury associated with defects in membrane complement regulators.
The effects of molecular noise and size control on variability in the budding yeast cell cycle

Reports on single cell experiments in budding yeast that analyse the role of molecular noise during the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Variability in the timing of G1 can be attributed to variations in cell size at cell birth, as well as variations of a size-independent 'timer' step. These two steps are modular and together control the timing of the critical Start transition of the G1 phase. Molecular noise in gene expression can generate substantial variability in protein concentration1. However, its effect on the precision of a natural eukaryotic circuit such as the control of cell cycle remains unclear. We use single-cell imaging of fluorescently labelled budding yeast to measure times from division to budding (G1) and from budding to the next division. The variability in G1 decreases with the square root of the ploidy through a 1N/2N/4N ploidy series, consistent with simple stochastic models for molecular noise. Also, increasing the gene dosage of G1 cyclins decreases the variability in G1. A new single-cell reporter for cell protein content allows us to determine the contribution to temporal G1 variability of deterministic size control (that is, smaller cells extending G1). Cell size control contributes significantly to G1 variability in daughter cells but not in mother cells. However, even in daughters, size-independent noise is the largest quantitative contributor to G1 variability. Exit of the transcriptional repressor Whi5 from the nucleus partitions G1 into two temporally uncorrelated and functionally distinct steps. The first step, which depends on the G1 cyclin gene CLN3, corresponds to noisy size control that extends G1 in small daughters, but is of negligible duration in mothers. The second step, whose variability decreases with increasing CLN2 gene dosage, is similar in mothers and daughters. This analysis decomposes the regulatory dynamics of the Start transition into two independent modules, a size sensing module and a timing module, each of which is predominantly controlled by a different G1 cyclin.
Diffusion resistance of endothelium and stroma of bullfrog cornea determined by potential response to K

Corneas of bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) were mounted between lucite chambers. A four-electrode system was used and the potential difference (PD) and the electrical resistance were measured. In intact corneas, the PD averaged 25 mV (aqueous side positive) and the electrical resistance 1.5 kΩ · cm2. Perfusion of the aqueous side with high K+ solutions resulted in a marked decrease in PD and a drop in the electrical resistance. Scraping the epithelium (leaving the stroma plus endothelium) resulted in a drop of the PD to about zero and a decrease in electrical resistance to about 0.1 kΩ · cm2 and a very small PD response to a marked elevation of the K+ concentration on the aqueous side. On the basis of the above, it is obvious that the large ΔPD in intact corneas, due to elevation of the K+ concentration, must be due to K+ diffusing from the aqueous side across the endothelium and stroma and reaching the epithelium. The duration of the PD response is therefore a measure of the resistance to diffusion of the stroma plus endothelium. A quantitative analysis shows that under in vitro conditions the resistance of the endothelium plus stroma to the diffusion of ions is very low.
A laboratory scale chill-casting vacuum induction furnace

The details of the construction and operation of a simple laboratory scale induction furnace with a capacity of approximately 3 cm3, which may be used at either low pressures (10-4 mm of mercury) or with an inert atmosphere is described. The furnace and induction unit are fitted to a tilting frame allowing the melt to be cast into a copper mould. Copper, silver, gold, magnesium and cadmium based alloys have been cast successfully with this apparatus.
Erosion Measurements in Linear, Oscillatory, and Combined Oscillatory and Linear Flow Regimes

Abstract Many contaminated sediments and dredged material mixtures of cohesive and non-cohesive sediments occur in wave-dominated environments. In-situ analysis is imperative in understanding the erosion and transport of these sediments. Recent research efforts have developed a flume with unidirectional flow that can measure in-situ sediment erosion with depth (SEDflume). However, the flow regime for the SEDflume has limited applicability to wave-dominated environments. Therefore, a unique device, called the SEAWOLF flume, was developed and used by Sandia National Laboratories to simulate high-shear stress erosion processes experienced in coastal waters where wave forcing dominates the system. The SEAWOLF is capable of testing in-situ or laboratory prepared cores. Erosion rates of cohesive and non-cohesive sediments prepared in the laboratory were determined in oscillatory and combined oscillatory and linear flow regimes. Results of these tests were compared to results from the unidirectional SEDflume. Al...
Effects of melatonin on the behavioral and hormonal responses of red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis) to exogenous corticosterone.

We investigated possible interactions between melatonin and corticosterone in modulating the reproductive behavior of male red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis) following spring emergence. We also examined whether melatonin’s modulatory actions could be explained by its potential properties as a serotonin receptor antagonist. Exogenous corticosterone significantly reduced courtship behavior of male snakes in a dose-dependent manner. Melatonin also significantly reduced courtship behavior of male garter snakes. Pretreatment with melatonin before administering corticosterone treatments further suppressed courtship behavior of red-sided garter snakes. These results indicate additive inhibitory effects of melatonin and corticosterone in modulating reproductive behavior. Snakes receiving ketanserin, a serotonergic type 2A receptor antagonist, followed by corticosterone also showed reduced courtship behavior; this serotonin receptor antagonist followed by treatment with vehicle did not significantly influence courtship behavior of male snakes. Neither melatonin nor corticosterone treatments significantly influenced testosterone + 5-a-dihydrotestosterone concentrations of male garter snakes, supporting a direct effect of melatonin and corticosterone on courtship behavior that is independent of any effect on androgen concentrations. We propose that a serotonin system is involved in the modulation of male courtship behavior by melatonin and corticosterone. In addition, our data support the hypothesis that melatonin may function as a serotonin receptor antagonist. Further research is necessary to discern whether the actions of melatonin and corticosterone are converging on the same pathway or if their effects on different pathways are having additive inhibitory effects on courtship behavior. D 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Performance analysis of mobile packet radio networks

A model is proposed for analyzing the performance of a mobile packet radio network. In this network, a node is allowed to move around with a random velocity. Hence, the distribution of the number of nodes in one's transmission circle is dependent on the mobility of the nodes. A queuing model is developed to evaluate this distribution and the effects of node mobility on system performance. This effect cannot be obtained by classical two-dimensional Poisson model. It is found that an optimal power radius is dependent on the node mobility. >
Glauconite Composition and Morphology, Shocked Quartz, and the Origin of the Cretaceous(?) Main Fossiliferous Layer (MFL) in Southern New Jersey, U.S.A.

Abstract The Main Fossiliferous Layer (MFL) is a concentration of vertebrate and invertebrate fossils, 20 to 30 cm thick, preserved in a sequence of glauconitic sand at or near the Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary in the New Jersey (USA) coastal plain. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain the origin and age of the MFL, including: marine transgression and formation of lag deposits of reworked bones and shells, formation of a condensed section and attritional accumulation of fossil material, and catastrophic collapse of Late Cretaceous ecosystems following the end-Cretaceous bolide impact at Chicxulub. We use new data on glauconite morphology, concentrations, geochemistry, and presence of shocked quartz, coupled with previous data on sedimentology, taphonomy, and rare-earth-element geochemistry of fossil vertebrates to interpret the genesis of the MFL. Glauconite concentration and maturity steadily increases from latest Cretaceous sediments of the Navesink–New Egypt Formation, through the MFL and into the Paleogene upper Hornerstown Formation, suggesting that marine transgression and decreasing sedimentation rates were a factor in the formation of the glauconite, but not the MFL. Rare-earth-element patterns in fossil bones from the MFL, which are acquired during fossilization, are different from those of Cretaceous and Paleogene specimens, indicating that vertebrate remains in the MFL fossilized in situ and were not reworked from older, underlying units. Vertebrate fossils from the MFL are preserved as isolated to articulated specimens. While isolated specimens would be common in a transgressive lag, articulated specimens would not. Articulated specimens could be concentrated by attritional accumulation along a defined surface during a period of slow sedimentation, but the lack of a distinct increase in glauconite maturity or concentrations of elements associated with heavy-mineral accumulations at the Navesink–New Egypt–Hornerstown contact or MFL, which would be expected during a period of reduced sedimentation, hiatus, or unconformity, are absent at the localities studied. Shocked quartz was identified in a burrow fill directly beneath the MFL, at the contact of the Navesink and Hornerstown formations. Clay clasts with latest Cretaceous microfossils, along with reworked invertebrate fossils with infills of latest Cretaceous sediment, have been recovered from the MFL. The association of shocked quartz, mixture of isolated and articulated vertebrates with distinct rare-earth signatures, lack of a punctuated period of increased glauconite maturity, and presence of reworked Late Cretaceous invertebrates and clay clasts with Late Cretaceous microfossils suggests that the MFL may represent a thanatocoenosis that was the direct result of environmental disturbance associated with the end-Cretaceous impact event at Chicxulub.
Economic Regulations, Red Tape, and Bureaucratic Corruption in Post-Communist Economies

Summary Should state regulatory involvement in the economy necessarily generate corruption? While excessive regulatory burden is often treated as a cause of corruption, this paper argues otherwise. It distinguishes regulatory policy, or de jure regulatory regimes from regulatory implementation and offers a more nuanced argument about the relationship between state regulations and bureaucratic corruption. The analysis of business survey data covering 25 post-communist economies demonstrates that mechanisms of regulatory implementation, rather than heavy-handed regulatory policy, are responsible for bribery. This analysis draws attention to the theoretical distinction between different types of regulatory hurdles and their differential effects on the quality of governance.
Is total out-of-hospital time a significant predictor of trauma patient mortality?

Objective: To determine if there is an association between total out-of-hospital time and trauma patient mortality. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of a convenience sample of consecutive medical records for all admitted patients transported by helicopter or ambulance from the scene of injury to the regional trauma center. Descriptive and univariate analyses were conducted to determine which variables were associated with patient mortality and total out-of-hospital time. Multiple predictors logistic regression was used to determine if total out-ofhospital time was associated with trauma patient outcome, while controlling for the variables associated with trauma patient mortality. Results: Of the 2,925 patients who were transported from the scene, 1,877 met the inclusion criteria. Six percent (116) did not survive. The multiple predictors model included CUPS (critical, unstable, potentially unstable, stable) status, patient age, Injury Severity Score, Revised Trauma Score, and total out-of-hospital time as predictors of mortality. Total out-of-hospital time (odds ratio 0.987; p ¼ 0.092) was the only variable not found to be a significant predictor of mortality. Conclusions: Providerassigned CUPS status, patient age, Injury Severity Score, and Revised Trauma Score all were significant predictors of trauma patient mortality. Total out-of-hospital time was not associated with mortality. Key words: wounds; trauma; injury; emergency medicine services; time; triage. ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2003; 10:949‐954.
Temperature Preferences of Four Fish Species in an Electronic Thermoregulatory Shuttlebox

Abstract Temperature preferences of four fish species were studied in an electronic thermoregulatory shuttlebox. The modal temperature preferences (final preferenda) of the four species were: black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus), 24°C; carp (Cyprinus carpio), 29°C; chain pickerel (Esox niger), 24°C; and pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus), 26°C. The species differed in thermoregulatory precision as well as in final preferred temperature, indicating the species-specific nature of thermal behavior. There was little intraspecific variation among individuals tested. The results agree well with those of other investigators using different methods and apparatus.
Substrate dependent high-field transport of graphene transistors

The performance of graphene field-effect transistors (GFETs) strongly depends on the interfaces between the graphene layer and the supporting and top gate dielectrics. In this study, we combine our simulation approach [1] with new and existing experimental data to provide the first detailed analysis and comparison of the high-field properties of graphene on BN [2], on HfO2 (examined here for the first time) and on SiO2 [3]. These substrates each present unique scenarios because they have different (remote) phonons and different thermal conductivities, all of which influence high-field transport in GFETs.
Computing the distance between smooth objects in three dimensional space

A methodology for computing the distance between smooth objects in three-dimensional space is presented. The convex polytope, which is the basic solid modeling tool of prior developments, is replaced by a general convex set. This permits the direct treatment of objects with curved surfaces, eliminating the errors caused by polytope approximations. The computational procedure is a simple extension of the efficient distance algorithm described by E.G. Gilbert et al. (1988). While the convergence of the algorithm is not finite, it is fast and an effective stopping condition is available. Procedures for treating a rich family of smooth objects are given. Extensive numerical experiments support the claimed efficiency. >
Radiation Therapy for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Tonsillar Region: A Preferred Alternative to Surgery?

PURPOSE: There are no definitive randomized studies that compare radiotherapy (RT) with surgery for tonsillar cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of RT alone and RT combined with a planned neck dissection for carcinoma of the tonsillar area and to compare these data with the results of treatment with primary surgery. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Four hundred patients were treated between October 1964 and December 1997 and observed for at least 2 years. One hundred forty-one patients underwent planned neck dissection, and 18 patients received induction (17 patients) or concomitant (one patient) chemotherapy. RESULTS: Five-year local control rates, by tumor stage, were as follows: T1, 83%; T2, 81%; T3, 74%; and T4, 60%. Multivariate analysis revealed that local control was significantly influenced by tumor stage (P = .0001), fractionation schedule (P = .0038), and external beam dose (P = .0227). Local control after RT for early-stage cancers was higher for tonsillar fossa/posterior pillar...
DOES PREDATION ON NEONATES INHERENTLY SELECT FOR EARLIER BIRTHS

Abstract I hypothesize that predation on newborn young represents a seasonal analog to time-lagged predator–prey cycles and can cause directional selection against late birthing. Newborn offspring represent an irruption of vulnerable prey to which predators can respond by adapting their search efforts to find and capture these prey. Those born early would be the 1st to achieve the size or mobility necessary to escape predators. Simple models of predation on moose calves were used to demonstrate how changes in predator efficiency as newborns appear, combined with a short period of offspring vulnerability, would produce selection against late birthing. Of the 9 published studies of mammals, 6 showed evidence of selection against late-born young that could be driven by predation on neonates. If true, this hypothesis has consequences for the way we interpret evidence for “predator swamping” and optimal birthing periods in mammals and other taxa with synchronous reproduction.
Voltage-controlled gating at the intracellular entrance to a hyperpolarization-activated cation channel.

Hyperpolarization-activated cation (HCN) channels regulate pacemaking activity in cardiac cells and neurons. Our previous work using the specific HCN channel blocker ZD7288 provided evidence for an intracellular activation gate for these channels because it appears that ZD7288, applied from the intracellular side, can enter and leave HCN channels only at voltages where the activation gate is opened (Shin, K.S., B.S. Rothberg, and G. Yellen. 2001. J. Gen. Physiol. 117:91–101). However, the ZD7288 molecule is larger than the Na+ or K+ ions that flow through the open channel. In the present study, we sought to resolve whether the voltage gate at the intracellular entrance to the pore for ZD7288 also can be a gate for permeant ions in HCN channels. Single residues in the putative pore-lining S6 region of an HCN channel (cloned from sea urchin; spHCN) were substituted with cysteines, and the mutants were probed with Cd2+ applied to the intracellular side of the channel. One mutant, T464C, displayed rapid irreversible block when Cd2+ was applied to opened channels, with an apparent blocking rate of ∼3 × 105 M−1s−1. The blocking rate was decreased for channels held at more depolarized voltages that close the channels, which is consistent with the Cd2+ access to this residue being gated from the intracellular side of the channel. 464C channels could be recovered from Cd2+ inhibition in the presence of a dithiol applied to the intracellular side. The rate of this recovery also was reduced when channels were held at depolarized voltages. Finally, Cd2+ could be trapped inside channels that were composed of WT/464C tandem-linked subunits, which could otherwise recover spontaneously from Cd2+ inhibition. Thus, Cd2+ escape is also gated at the intracellular side of the channel. Together, these results are consistent with a voltage-controlled structure at the intracellular side of the spHCN channel that can gate the flow of cations through the pore.
Comparing Playful and Nonplayful Incidental Attention to Form

Current evidence demonstrating the importance of language play in second-language(L2) development rests largely on qualitative analyses of L2 discourse. Although theserich descriptions have illustrated a number of important functions of language play,further study of the phenomenon is necessary to understand its potential to facilitatelearning.Thisarticlereportsonresearchdesignedtocomparelearnerrecallofitemsthathave been the focus of serious versus playful attention. Forty-four hours of interactionby 16 adult English-as-a-second-language learners in an 8-week conversation classwere observed and audio-recorded. All instances in which they spontaneously engagedin metalinguistic reﬂection or discussion about their language use or knowledge (i.e.,Swain&Lapkin’s,1995,language-relatedepisodes,orLREs)wereidentiﬁedandcodedforwhetherthiswasdoneplayfully(PLREs)orseriously(LREs).Eachstudentreceivedtailor-madeteststoassessrecallofthoseitems.Statisticalanalysisshowedsigniﬁcantlystronger recall of items occurring in PLREs than in LREs.
On to the Next Level: Continuing the Conceptualization of the Bricolage

The bricolage offers insight into new forms of rigor and complexity in social research. This article explores new forms of complex, multimethodological, multilogical forms of inquiry into the socia...
Selection of Den Sites by Black Bears in the Southern Appalachians

We evaluated selection of den sites by American black bears (Ursus americanus) in the Pisgah Bear Sanctuary, western North Carolina, by comparing characteristics of dens at 53 den sites with availability of habitat characteristics in annual home ranges of bears and in the study area. We also tested whether den-site selection differed by sex, age, and reproductive status of bears. In addition, we evaluated whether the den component of an existing habitat model for black bears predicted where bears would select den sites. We found bears selected den sites far from gravel roads, on steep slopes, and at high elevations relative to what was available in both annual home ranges and in the study area. Den-site selection did not differ by sex or age, but it differed by reproductive status. Adult females with cubs preferred to den in areas that were relatively far from gravel roads, but adult females without cubs did not. The habitat model overestimated the value of areas near gravel roads, underestimated the value of moderately steep areas, and did not include elevation as a predictor variable. Our results highlight the importance of evaluating den selection in terms of both use and availability of den characteristics.
The effects of touch screen virtual keyboard key sizes on typing performance, typing biomechanics and muscle activity

The goal of the present study was to determine whether different touch screen virtual keyboard key sizes affected typing productivity, typing forces, and muscle activity. In a repeated-measures laboratory experiment with 21 subjects, typing speed, accuracy, muscle activity, and typing forces were measured and compared between four different key sizes: 13x13, 16x16, 19x19, and 22x22 mm. The results showed that 13 mm keyboard had a 15% slower typing speed (p < 0.0001) and slightly higher static (10th %tile) shoulder muscle activity (2%, p = 0.01) as compared to the other keyboards with larger keys. The slower typing speed and slightly higher shoulder muscle activity indicated that 13 mm keyboard may be less optimal for touch typing compared to the larger key sizes.
Computer simulation of synchrotron radiation in two dimensions

Plasma effects on the emission of synchrotron radiation are investigated using a two-dimensional electromagnetic relativistic simulation code. Results are compared with those for a vacuum; it is found that the emission lies between the vacuum emission for nc and nc + 1 where nc is the critical harmonic for EM wave propagation (nc = ωp/Ω0).
Theory of Mind disruption and recruitment of the right hemisphere during narrative comprehension in autism

The intersection of Theory of Mind (ToM) processing and complex narrative comprehension in high functioning autism was examined by comparing cortical activation during the reading of passages that required inferences based on either intentions, emotional states, or physical causality. Right hemisphere activation was substantially greater for all sentences in the autism group than in a matched control group suggesting decreased LH capacity in autism resulting in a spillover of processing to RH homologs. Moreover, the ToM network was disrupted. The autism group showed similar activation for all inference types in the right temporo-parietal component of the ToM network whereas the control participants selectively activated this network only when appropriate. The autism group had lower functional connectivity within the ToM network and also between the ToM and a left hemisphere language network. Furthermore, the within-network functional connectivity in autism was correlated with the size of the anterior portion of the corpus callosum.
The Text REtrieval Conferences (TRECs)

There have been four Text REtrieval Conferences (TRECs); TREC-1 in November 1992, TREC-2 in August 1993, TREC-3 in November 1994 and TREC-4 in November 1995. The number of participating systems has grown from 25 in TREC-1 to 36 in TREC-4, including most of the major text retrieval software companies and most of the universities doing research in text retrieval (see table for some of the participants). The diversity of the participating groups has ensured that TREC represents many different approaches to text retrieval, while the emphasis on individual experiments evaluated in a common setting has proven to be a major strength of TREC.
Genetic modifiers of carcinogen DNA adducts in target lung and peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Measurement of carcinogen DNA adducts in blood has been used as a surrogate for the target lung tissue. We aimed to examine whether genetic polymorphisms in several metabolic pathway genes modify the relation between DNA adducts in target lung and blood. One hundred and thirty-five early-stage lung cancer patients from the Massachusetts General Hospital were studied. DNA adducts were measured by the 32 P-postlabeling assay in lung and blood mononuclear cells (MNCs) in a subset of 53 who had paired blood samples. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were assessed in genes involved in phase II (GSTs, NAT2, EPHX and NQO1), DNA repair (ERCC1, ERCC2 and XRCC1) and DNA methylation (MTHFR C677T and A1298C) pathways. There was a significant correlation between DNA adduct levels in lung and blood within the different genotypes, with one exception. Significant modifications in adducts were found by variants in genes for phase II metabolism [NAT2 (1.51 for rapid versus 0.76 for slow, P = 0.022)], DNA repair [ERCC1 C118T (P = 0.014), ERCC2 (P = 0.003) and XRCC1 (P = 0.025)] and MTHFR [C677T (P = 0.005) and A1298C (P = 0.005)]. The relation between DNA adducts in blood MNCs and target lung tissue was significantly modified by the single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the three main pathways. Despite the relatively small sample size, our results suggest that genetic factors may need to be considered when assessing the association of DNA adducts using surrogate tissue in studies of lung cancer. Further studies are needed to better understand their role and the mechanisms.
The process of problem pregnancy counseling.

Abstract Effective counseling for women experiencing an unwanted pregnancy can facilitate quality decision making and personal growth. Supportive counseling minimizes the trauma and the potential for emotional deterioration. Timely counseling augments a woman's coping ability with this current life crisis and provides her with a positive, growth-producing experience. A counseling process to accomplish these objectives is described. The concepts of crisis theory and active decision making are applied to the pertinent social, emotional, and medical ramifications of pregnancy, parenthood, and abortion. Subjective reporting and clinical experience indicate that women receiving such counseling are better able to deal with and resolve the crisis of unwanted pregnancy.
Extended Nonlinear Dynamic Inversion Control Laws for Unmanned Air Vehicles

This paper presents a novel configuration for guidance and tracking control laws for unmanned air vehicles (UAV) based on an extended nonlinear dynamic inversion (NLDI) approach. Current outer/inner loop architectures use dynamic inversion for the outer loop controller while using linear compensation-type control for inner loops. That design, although it performs well at nominal conditions, lacks robustness under certain upset flight conditions. The design proposed in this paper includes inner and outer loop control modules that both rely on the use of an NLDI control scheme. The main objective of the control laws is to minimize forward, lateral, and vertical distances with respect to a desired trajectory, and maintain stability and adequate performance in the presence of sub-system failures and upset environmental conditions. The implementation of this control laws scheme is illustrated through a simulation example using a mathematical model of the West Virginia University (WVU) YF-22 UAV. The performance of the control laws is evaluated during autonomous flight in terms of trajectory tracking errors and control activity at nominal and abnormal conditions including actuator and sensor failures and excessive turbulence. The results obtained with the WVU UAV simulation environment show that for all cases investigated the extended NLDI approach has desirable fault tolerant capabilities.
Dueling Models of Dual Language Instruction: A Critical Review of the Literature and Program Implementation Guide

AbstractThis article describes a system for categorizing various theoretical models of dual language instruction. The use of the term “immersion” in the popular parlance is contrasted with its meaning for language educators in describing programs implemented to conform to specific enrichment or compensatory educational principles and goals. A paradigm is presented for examining the congruence, or match, among the theoretical model, teachers' beliefs, and actual classroom practices to determine the fidelity, and therefore, effectiveness, of a dual language program. Examples from school districts that exhibit high levels of congruence, and counter examples of programs lacking fidelity to their theoretical underpinnings, are presented to illustrate potential pitfalls of implementation. The results of California's Proposition 227 in providing coherent guidelines for program implementation are analyzed based on the congruence paradigm. Proposition 227 is judged to be a decontextualized procedural model rather ...
Annual Baroclinic Rossby Waves in the Central North Pacific

Abstract We analyze XBT data, collected in the central North Pacific under the NORPAX program (TRANSPAC), by means of inverse methods (cross-spectral fit). We separate the data into two parts: a fluctuation with length scales in the order of the dimensions of the North Pacific basin and a wavelike fluctuation with much shorter scales of a few hundred kilometers. At the annual frequency we find the wavelike fluctuation to consist of a random field of first-order baroclinic Rossby waves traveling basically northwest with wavelengths of ∼300 km and phase speeds of ∼1 cm s−1. The group velocity is directed mainly southwest and is of the order of 1 cm s−1. We describe the fields of temperature, pressure, velocity, sea level elevation, and horizontal and vertical particle displacement associated with the annual baroclinic Rossby waves.
Convective Mixing and the Thermohaline Circulation

Abstract An idealized three-dimensional model of buoyancy-driven flow in a single hemisphere is used to investigate the relationship between the meridional overturning and the efficiency by which convective mixing eliminates static instability. In the “fast” limit (mixing timescale hours to weeks), the meridional overturning is not rate limited by the efficiency of convective mixing. If convective mixing is made less efficient, the model’s meridional overturning strength increases. Moreover, the dominant downwelling occurs not at the highest surface density;hence the deep ocean is relatively buoyant. The numerical results are explained by the different influences of convective mixing and downward advection on the deep-ocean heat budget; they underscore the fundamentally three-dimensional nature of the meridional overturning. In addition, the narrowness of deep downwelling is related to the geostrophic dynamics of deep temperature anomalies near the eastern wall. The model results presented here are in con...
Goal programming approach to the remanufacturing supply-chain model

The current trend of depletion of natural resources due to an ever-increasing number of consumer goods manufactured has led to an increase in the quantity ofused and outdated products discarded. From an environmental point ofview, it is not only desirable to disassemble, reuse, remanufacture and/or recycle the discarded products, in many cases it can also be economically justified. This situation being the motive, in recent years there have been several studies reported on disassembly, remanufacturing and/or recycling environments. Since "environmentally conscious manufacturing" is a relatively new concept that brings new costs and profits into consideration, its analysis cannot be provided by readily available techniques. This paper presents a quantitative methodology to determine the allowable tolerance limits of planned/unplanned inventory in a remanufacturing supply chain environment based on the decision-maker's unique preferences. To this end, an integer goal-programming model that provides a unique solution for the allowable inventoiy level is presented. The objective of the supply-chain model is to determine the number of a variety of components to be kept in the inventoiy while economically fulfilling the demand of a multitude of components, and yet have an environmentally benign policy of minimizing waste generation. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the methodology.
The Role of Grain Size on Neutron Irradiation Response of Nanocrystalline Copper

The role of grain size on the developed microstructure and mechanical properties of neutron irradiated nanocrystalline copper was investigated by comparing the radiation response of material to the conventional micrograined counterpart. Nanocrystalline (nc) and micrograined (MG) copper samples were subjected to a range of neutron exposure levels from 0.0034 to 2 dpa. At all damage levels, the response of MG-copper was governed by radiation hardening manifested by an increase in strength with accompanying ductility loss. Conversely, the response of nc-copper to neutron irradiation exhibited a dependence on the damage level. At low damage levels, grain growth was the primary response, with radiation hardening and embrittlement becoming the dominant responses with increasing damage levels. Annealing experiments revealed that grain growth in nc-copper is composed of both thermally-activated and irradiation-induced components. Tensile tests revealed minimal change in the source hardening component of the yield stress in MG-copper, while the source hardening component was found to decrease with increasing radiation exposure in nc-copper.
Dialektyka i synteza. O Pascalowskiej filozofii człowieka

The study focuses on the characteristically Pascalian attempt at synthesizing of contradictory and intensely remote extremes of existence. Assuming the form of existential dialectics, the paradox of Pascalian vision refers in particular to the human, demonstrating the non-reducible tension between the intuitive (irrational) and the rational (panlogical); between the heart and the mind, between faith and knowledge. The conviction of human misery or the worldly vanity is fused here with the simultaneous sense of human greatness (the power of thought). The tension which therefore spans those dichotomous ontological-ontic dimensions is the determining factor of the constitution of individual existence.
Statistical analysis of data from countercurrent distribution. I. Method for estimation of quantity and partition coefficient of each compound in the distribution.

Abstract A statistical method (programmed for the IBM 7040 computer) is presented which can estimate the partition coefficient and the total quantity of each of several compounds in a mixture subjected to the countercurrent distribution procedure. The model employed in curve fitting is a mixed binomial. A staged least-squares procedure is employed in fitting the model, adding one binomial distribution at a time to the model until the limit of statistical significance is reached. The method is tested on data from the distribution of known mixtures. It is shown that the method can adequately estimate the desired parameters in the mixtures, even when the test situation is made quite difficult.
Functionalized Dibenzoborepins as Components of Small Molecule and Polymeric π-Conjugated Electronic Materials

We present the synthesis and characterization of dibenzo[b,f]borepins (DBBs) functionalized at the para and meta position with respect to the boron center in order to understand how regiochemical issues influence photophysical and electrochemical properties. An expanded synthetic repertoire is presented, using palladium catalysis (to perform Stille, Suzuki, Buchwald-Hartwig, and Sonogashira cross-coupling reactions) and lithium-halogen exchange to synthesize a series of extended π-conjugated DBBs. These chemistries are enabled by the use of a sterically bulky Mes* (2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenyl) group on boron and the inclusion of reactive bromide handles on the DBB core. Photophysical, electrochemical, and computational analyses of these compounds indicate that relative to the protio-DBB the installation of groups at the meta positions decreases the optical band gap while para substitution raises the electron affinity of the system. Thus, both the HOMO-LUMO gap and specific frontier molecular orbital levels can be tuned by the installation of different conjugated substituents.
Age at Introduction to Solid Foods and Child Obesity at 6 Years

Abstract Background: Epidemiological evidence suggests that timing of introduction of solid foods may be associated with subsequent obesity, and the association may vary by whether an infant is breastfed or formula-fed. Methods: We included 1181 infants who participated in the Infant Feeding Practices Study II (IFPS II) and the Year 6 Follow Up (Y6FU) study. Data from IFPS II were used to calculate the primary exposure and timing of solid food introduction (<4, 4–<6, and ≥6 months), and data from Y6FU were used to calculate the primary outcome and obesity at 6 years of age (BMI ≥95th percentile). We used multivariable logistic regression to assess the association between timing of the introduction of solids and obesity at 6 years and test whether this association was modified by breastfeeding duration (breastfed for 4 months vs. not). Results: Prevalence of obesity in our sample was 12.0%. The odds of obesity was higher among infants introduced to solids <4 months compared to those introduced at 4–<6 mont...
What Is in a Number? The FDG Lumped Constant in the Rat Brain

PET with 18F-FDG is being used in humans to study regional brain metabolism in normal and disease states. The underpinning of this approach is that FDG, like glucose, is transported across the blood–brain barrier and phosphorylated by hexokinase to FDG-6-phosphate, which accumulates in the tissue
Low-Voltage 0, 25 µm CMOS Improved Power Adaptive Issue Queue for Embedded Microprocessors

In this paper, we present an improved adaptive issue queue for use in embedded microprocessors. The issue queue was designed, simulated, and implemented in 0.25µm CMOS technology. Using an example of an 8-entry issue queue, we found that by shutting down the parts of the queue that are not in use, the power dissipation of the issue queue can be greatly decreased with only a small tradeoffs in speed and area. The additional logic, associated with the shutdown circuitry, introduces an insignificant overhead. Furthermore, low-power optimization has been performed on CAM and SRAM arrays which resulted in additional savings of power. It has been found that 4.8%–56% reduction in power can be achieved at 2.5V and at 1.5V the power consumption is reduced by 8.5%%–60%. In addition, the overall power consumption drops 10 times compared to 2.5V operation.
Osseointegration of dental implants complexed with rhBMP-2: a comparative histomorphometric and radiographic evaluation.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of rhBMP-2 on implant osseointegration using histomorphometric and radiographic imaging analyses and determine the diagnostic accuracy of periapical radiographs regarding clinical bone-implant contact levels. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Hollow-cylinder implants were filled with an absorbable collagen sponge soaked with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) or left empty and implanted in the mandibles of dogs. Animals were followed for 2, 4, 8, or 12 weeks. At the end of each time interval, the animals were sacrificed and specimens were collected for histomorphometric and radiographic evaluation of the bone-implant contact levels. RESULTS: Both groups exhibited the same mean histologic bone-implant contact on the outer surface of the implant, except for the 4-week group. The radiographic evaluation of bone-implant contact overestimated the actual osseointegration levels by at least 30%, a significant amount. DISCUSSION: The osteoinductive and regenerative potential of rhBMP-2 is of clinical benefit in cases where bone augmentation is indicated and improved levels of osseointegration are expected. Radiographic evaluation has been the most widely employed technique in clinical practice for assessing bone levels around dental implants and comparing changes over time. However, there is a limit to the diagnostic accuracy of conventional radiographs when compared to the data obtained by histologic analysis. CONCLUSION: Application of rhBMP-2 within the confined boundaries of the hollow chamber of the implant had a limited effect on the osseointegration level along its outer surface, perhaps because of physically restricted diffusion. Radiographic evaluation resulted in the overestimation of bone-implant contact, and poor correlation with the histomorphometric data was found.
Clinical and Radiographic Evaluation of Demineralized Freeze-Dried Bone Allograft Versus Platelet-Rich Fibrin for the Treatment of Periodontal Intrabony Defects in Humans.

Background: A wide variety of materials have been proposed for treatment of periodontal intrabony defects (IBDs); recently, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) has been suggested as a grafting material. The aim of this study is to report changes in clinical attachment level (CAL) and bone fill of periodontal IBDs treated with demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (DFDBA) compared with PRF in humans.Methods: Thirty-six patients completed the study protocol. Each patient contributed a single IBD, which was randomized to receive either DFDBA or PRF. Clinical and standardized radiographic data were collected at baseline and 6 months after treatment. Primary outcome measures included: 1) radiographic bone fill as measured from the cemento-enamel junction to base of bony defect and 2) change in CAL.Results: Both treatment groups had significant gains in CAL as well as bone fill, with no significant differences in outcomes between groups. DFDBA had a mean CAL gain of 1.16 ± 1.33 mm, mean clinical bone fill of 1.53 ± ...
Chimerism analysis in sex-mismatched murine transplantation using quantitative real-time PCR

Murine experimental stem cell transplantations require the accurate discrimination and quantification of donor cells from host cells. A Y-chromosome-specific, quantitative real-time PCR (kinetic PCR) protocol for blood-derived DNA was developed. The assay sensitivity was extremely high with accurate detection of only 10 pg (six copies of Y target DNA) in a variable background of female DNA background ranging from 2.5 to 50 ng. The dynamic range of the assay provided accurate results ranging from 2.2 × 10−2% to 100% of male DNA in female background. The kinetic PCR assay can be used in all mouse strains, and a sample size as low as 2.5 ng total DNA is sufficient for analysis. Therefore, kinetic PCR allows engraftment kinetic studies on repeated blood draws of individual animals with no need for sacrifice. Compared to conventional PCR, the assay is much simplified, as neither the accurate adjustment of sample DNA concentration nor a post-reaction analysis procedure is required. The procedure is simple, free...
Consensus-Based Distributed Recursive Least-Squares Estimation using Ad Hoc Wireless Sensor Networks

Recursive least-squares (RLS) schemes are of paramount importance for online estimation and tracking of signals, especially when the state and/or data model are unknown. Here, a distributed RLS-like algorithm is developed that can operate in ad hoc wireless sensor networks (WSNs). The novel algorithm is obtained by writing the weighted squared-error cost associated with an RLS algorithm in a separable form and applying the alternating-direction method of multipliers to minimize it in a distributed fashion. This distributed adaptive scheme can be applied in general WSNs that are challenged by communication noise and do not necessarily possess a Hamiltonian cycle. Relative to competing alternatives, the novel algorithm offers more efficient communications. Numerical examples indicate that the proposed scheme is resilient to communication noise, while it performs efficient tracking of time-varying processes.