cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Weaved Up Folly?: Preference, Well-being and Morality in Social Decision

This essay evaluates the strategy of incorporation often adopted in welfarist evaluation of legal rules and institutions. The strategy of incorporation includes every concern that motivates the agent within the agent's preference ordering. More specifically, this extended preference ordering encompasses her concerns arising from deontological constraints and consideration of justice. Pursuit of a strategy of incorporation presents two difficulties for an analyst committed to welfarist evaluation. First, the larger the set of reasons for actions incorporated within the agent's preference ordering, the more likely that satisfaction of the preference ordering cannot be equated with the agent's well-being. This failure to link preference and well-being may be problematic because welfarism apparently rests on the moral appeal of the promotion of well-being. Second, even if one regards these extended preferences as appropriate bases for moral evaluation, we would not aggregate them as welfarist directs. The strategy of incorporation ignores the distinction between "preference" (narrowly understood) and "judgment." The argument is developed with reference to the argument for welfarism recently advanced in Kaplow and Shavell, "Fairness vs. Weflare", 114 Harvard Law Review 961 (2001).
MISQ: a UML-based analytical modeling methodology for optimizing web service composition

A novel UML-based analytical modeling methodology, named MISQ, is presented for optimizing web service composition in Business Service Networks. MISQ enables functional and temporal analyses at a high-level design stage so that web service composition can be systematically optimized. Furthermore, MISQ provides an automatic generation of web service implementations for improving productivity and reliability.
A Methodology for Automated Verification of Synthesized RTL Designs and Its Integration with a High-Level Synthesis Tool

High-level synthesis tools generate RTL designs from algorithmic behavioral specifications and consist of well defined tasks. Widely used algorithms for these tasks retain the overall control flow structure of the behavioral specification allowing limited code motion. Further, hls algorithms are oblivious to the mathematical properties of arithmetic and logic operators, selecting and sharing rtl library modules solely based on matching uninterpreted function symbols and constants. This paper reports a verification methodology that effectively exploits these features to achieve efficient and fully automated verification of synthesized designs and its incorporation in a relatively mature hls tool. In the proposed methodology, a correctness condition generator is tightly integrated with the hls tool to automatically generate (1) formal specifications of the behavior and the rtl design, (2) the correctness lemmas establishing equivalence between them, and (3) their proof scripts that can be submitted to a higher-order logic proof checker without further human interaction.
The impact of information technology on quality improvement, productivity, and profits: an analytical model of a monopolist

Empirical and analytic research in the IT and economics literature have paid little attention to the distinction between the goals of cost reduction and quality improvement when examining the impact of IT investments on firm performance (i.e., firm profits and productivity). The authors present a simple analytical model that examines the impact of various types of IT investments on the quality and pricing decisions made by firms and on the economic performance of these firms. The model demonstrates that while investments in the technology types examined in this model are all expected to increase firm profits the impact of these investments on firm productivity vary and depend on the type of technology implemented. More specifically, the model demonstrates that a profit-maximizing firm may make a conscious decision to invest in certain technologies that lead to product quality improvements to capture higher profits, but sometimes at the expense of firm productivity.
A receding horizon approach for solving some cooperative control problems

We consider a setting where multiple vehicles form a team cooperating to visit multiple target points to collect rewards associated with them. The team objective is to maximize the total reward accumulated over a given time interval. Complicating factors include uncertainties regarding the locations of target points and the effectiveness of collecting rewards, differences among vehicle capabilities, and the fact that rewards are time-varying. We propose a receding horizon (RH) control scheme which dynamically determines vehicle trajectories by solving a sequence of optimization problems over a planning horizon and executing them over a shorter action horizon. The properties of the resulting cooperative controller are tested in a simulated environment and seen to match a reward upper bound with high probability. This exploratory work has also helped identify several issues for further research.
Independent control of dendritic and axonal form in the developing lateral geniculate nucleus

To identify mechanisms that regulate neuronal form in the mammalian CNS, we have examined dendritic development in the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) during the period of segregation of retinal ganglion cell axons. The tracer Dil was used to label retrogradely LGN neurons that send their axons to primary visual cortex at different ages between embryonic day 36 (E36) and E60 in the cat. LGN neurons grow extensively during this period, in concert with the progressive restriction of ganglion cell axons from the two eyes to their appropriate eye-specific layers. At E36 neurons have simple bipolar morphology; by E60 all have acquired complex multipolar dendritic trees. During this period, soma size increases by 190% and total dendritic length increases 240%. Dendritic complexity, as measured by dendritic branch points, also increases. As dendrites grow, the number of spines increases, but their density remains constant at 0.015/micron throughout this period. Since it is known that blockade of action potential activity significantly alters the branching pattern and extent of retinal ganglion cell axonal arbors within the LGN, we also investigated whether the dendritic development of the postsynaptic LGN neurons is similarly susceptible. Following 2 weeks of the intracranial minipump infusion of TTX between E42 and E56, the morphology of LGN neurons was examined. Surprisingly in view of the striking effect of the treatment on the morphology of retinal ganglion cell axons, dendritic growth and development were essentially normal. However, the density of dendritic spines increased almost threefold, suggesting that this specific feature of dendritic morphology is highly regulated by action potential activity. These observations indicate that normally during this period of development, the previously described changes that occur in the morphology of the presynaptic inputs to LGN neurons are accompanied by a progressive growth of post-synaptic dendrites. Because the intracranial TTX infusions have almost certainly blocked all sodium action potentials, our results suggest that the basic dendritic framework of LGN neurons can be achieved even in the absence of this form of neural activity. Moreover, since the same treatment causes a profound change in the morphology of the presynaptic axons, at least some aspects of axonal and dendritic form must be controlled independently during this prenatal period of development.
The etiology of digital dermatitis in ruminants: recent perspectives

Digital dermatitis (DD) is a multifactorial polymicrobial infectious disease originally described in dairy cattle, but is increasingly recognized in beef cattle, sheep, and more recently, elk and goats. Clinical bovine lesions typically appear on the plantar surface of the hind foot from the interdigital space and heel bulb to the accessory digits, with a predilection for skin-horn junctions. Lesions present as a painful ulcerative acute or chronic inflammatory process with differing degrees of severity. This variability reflects disease progression and results in a number of different clinical descriptions with overlapping pathologies that ultimately have a related bacterial etiology. The goal of this review article is to provide a concise overview of our current understanding on digital dermatitis disease to facilitate clinical recognition, our current understanding on the causative agents, and recent advances in our understanding of disease transmission.
Child labor and schooling in Ghana

Child labor is a widespread, growing problem in the developing world. About 250 million of the world's children work, nearly half of them full-time. Child labor (regular participation in the labor force to earn a living or supplement household income) prevents children from participating in school. One constraint on Ghana's economic growth has been inadequate human capital development. According to 1992 data for Ghana, one girl in three and one boy in four does not attend school. The figures are worse in rural areas. The authors studied the dynamics of how households decided whether to send children 7 through 14 to school or to work, using household survey data for 1987-92. They do not address the issue of street kids, which does not imply that they are less important than the others. Unlike child labor in Asia, most child labor in Africa, especially Ghana, is unpaid work in family agricultural enterprises. Of the 28 percent of children engaged in child labor, more than two-thirds were also going to school. Of all children between 7 and 14, about 90 percent helped with household chores. Boys and girls tend to do different types of work. Girls do more household chores while boys work in the labor force. The data do not convincingly show, as most literature claims, that poverty is the main cause of child labor. But poverty is significantly correlated with the decision to send children to school, and there is a significant negative relationship between going to school and working. Increased demand for schooling is the most effective way to reduce child labor and ensure that Ghana's human capital is stabilized. The high cost of schooling and the poor quality and irrelevance of education has also pushed many children into work. And family characteristics play a big role in the child's decision to work or go to school. The father's education has a significant negative effect on child labor; the effect is stronger on girls than on boys. So adult literacy could indirectly reduce the amount of child labor.
New methods for tolerance analysis in solid modeling

Results are presented of research at IBM into the use of solid modeling technology for the automated solutions of tolerating problems. This work focuses on the tolerance analysis problem, and presents several methods for the automated solution of three-dimensional tolerance analysis problems, using solid modeling technology. A Monte Carlo method is presented for both worst-case and statistical tolerance analysis. Linear programming and sequential linear programming methods are presented for worst-case tolerance analysis. Example problems are solved using the experimental GEOTOL solid modeling system. >
Induction of Cell Death by a Novel Naphthoquinone Containing a Modified Anthracycline Ring System

The novel naphthoquinone adduct 12,13-Dihydro-N-methyl-6,11,13-trioxo-5H-benzo[4,5]cyclohepta[1,2-b]naphthalen-5,12-imine (hereafter called TU100) was synthesized as a potential chemotherapeutic agent. TU100 arrests tissue culture cells in S and G2/M phases of the cell cycle, followed by rapid induction of apoptosis. Evaluation by the Developmental Therapeutics Program at the National Cancer Institute revealed TU100 differentially inhibits growth of tissue-specific human cancer cell lines and has in vivo efficacy in a hollow fiber assay. These data were evaluated against previously analyzed compounds using the COMPARE algorithm and predicted that TU100 has a unique mechanism of action. Further analysis revealed TU100 does not intercalate into DNA despite structural similarity to anthracyclines. Cells treated with the drug do exhibit DNA damage, however, as indicated by phosphorylation of histone H2A.X. This damage and effects on cell viability are likely mediated in part by TU100-induced reactive oxygen species. Based on these results, TU100 shows promise as a chemotherapeutic drug owing to its unique structure, cellular targets, and efficacy against selected panels of tissue-specific cancer cell lines.
Hierarchical Modeling for Spatial Data Problems.

Abstract This short paper is centered on hierarchical modeling for problems in spatial and spatio-temporal statistics. It draws its motivation from the interdisciplinary research work of the author in terms of applications in the environmental sciences—ecological processes, environmental exposure, and weather modeling. The paper briefly reviews hierarchical modeling specification, adopting a Bayesian perspective with full inference and associated uncertainty within the specification, while achieving exact inference to avoid what may be uncomfortable asymptotics. It focuses on point-referenced (geo-statistical) and point pattern spatial settings. It looks in some detail at problems involving data fusion, species distributions, and large spatial datasets. It also briefly describes four further examples arising from the author’s recent research projects.
Use of the esophageal stethoscope in pediatric transports.

Introduction: Monitoring cardiac and respiratory function during helicopter transports can be difficult, so the authors devised a study of the esophageal stethoscope for pediatric patients. Setting: The study was conducted at Pediflite in Tennessee, which transports between 250 to 300 pediatric patients every year. Materials and Methods: A disposable esophageal stethoscope was used as an adjunct to other monitoring systems in intubated patients. Prior to transport, the stethoscope was placed orally by the respiratory therapist and advaned to the point where heart sounds are heard best, at which point breath sounds can also be heard clearly. The device's ear piece easily fit under the crew member's headphones, which block helicopter noise. Three sizes of stethoscope are available: a 6 French for patients 1 day to 4 years old, a 9 French for those 4 to 12 years old, and an 18 French for patients 12 years of age or older. Results: The esophageal stethoscope was used in 55 patients ranging in age from newborn to 18 years. Eighteen of 55 (33%) had multiple trauma or closed head injury, and 14 to 55 (25%) suffered respiratory failure. The esophageal stethoscope proved to be easy to place, had a low risk of complications and allowed continuous access to breath sounds. In addition, the ability to hear heart tones was minimally affected by noise or vibration. Conclusion: Due to its ability to continuously monitor breath sounds, endotracheal tube obstruction or displacement can be rapidly detected by the esophageal stethoscope. Also, if there is failure of the cardiopulmonary monitor, heart sounds can be continuously monitored. The esophageal stethoscope is a simple but potentially valuable tool in pediatric and neonatal transports for monitoring respiratory and cardiac status.
From false belief to friendship: Commentary on Fink, Begeer, Peterson, Slaughter, and de Rosnay

Fink, Begeer, Peterson, Slaughter, and de Rosnay (Brit. J. Dev. Psychol, 2015; 33, 1–17) represent a welcome contribution in providing empirical evidence of the link from false belief understanding at Time 1 to mutual friendship 2 years later, controlling for several other possible contributors. This opens a new and important line of inquiry into the practical significance of a Theory of Mind. As is typical of pioneering research, further study is needed to address some issues; here, we point out some of these issues and then briefly discuss the broader implications of Fink et al.'s findings.
SIGACCESS member profile: Jim Thatcher

Member of SIGACCESS since: The beginningMember of ACM since: (Almost the beginning) 1960Also member of: None
“This is kind of giving a secret away...”: students’ perspectives on effective class management

Abstract Class management is a critical challenge for educators. Previous management research focused largely on the teacher, ignoring the impetus and target of teacher action, the student. It was the purpose of this study to examine students’ perspectives on teachers’ behaviors that impeded or contributed to effective class management. Interviews with 182 students focused on student behavior and teacher practices. The conversations were recorded and later transcribed. The interview data were analyzed using constant comparison methods. Despite the widely varying school contexts, students provided consistent reports that effective managers set early, consistent standards, and developed positive relationships with students.
Influence of oxidation on the wear resistance of VN-10 alloy

We investigate the influence of the oxidation of VN-10 alloy of the niobium–titanium system on its tribological properties. It is shown that, in oxidation, protective, relatively dense, hard scale of complex structure and chemical composition is formed, which consists of oxides that are stoichiometrically close to Ti0.4Al0.3Nb0.3O2 and TiNb2O7 . After oxidation at an optimum temperature (673–773 K), the microhardness of the alloy increases by 25–28%. This facilitates an increase in its wear resistance under a contact pressure of 1.5 MPa under the conditions of unlubricated friction in air and after electrolytic hydrogenation: the wear of the oxidized material is smaller by an order of magnitude than that in the initial state, and the friction coefficient decreases by a factor of 5.
Diastolic ventricular function in children: a Doppler echocardiographic study establishing normal values and predictors of increased ventricular end-diastolic pressure

Objective To extend noninvasive assessment. of diastolic cardiac function into the pediatric age-group. Design This study was divided into two phases, the first of which was designed to provide an age-appropriate set of normal diastolic Doppler echocardiographic data for children and adolescents and the second of which was to determine whether these Doppler techniques could be used to identify children with increased ventricular end-diastolic pressure (EDP). Material and Methods Complete echocardiographic studies focusing on Doppler variables of diastolic ventricular function were performed on 223 normal children. Values observed were analyzed for dependence on age, heart rate, and gender. Results from the normal group were then compared with Doppler values observed in a group of 24 children with catheterization-substantiated increases in ventricular EDP. Results Normal values for the Doppler factors studied vary with both age and heart rate. The variables that most confidently distinguished children with increased EDP from normal subjects were the ratio of and the difference between the durations of pulmonary vein atrial reversal and the mitral A wave. A ratio of 1.2 or more or a difference of 29 ms or more identified those children with increased EDP with sensitivities of 88 and 90% and specificities of 86 and 86%, respectively. Conclusion Use of the normal data and the Doppler techniques described in this study will allow confident assessment of diastolic function in children as well as in adults.
Small-scale and large-scale intermittency in the nocturnal boundary layer and the residual layer

In high Reynolds-number turbulence, local scalar turbulence structure parameters, law. A simple theoretical explanation is offered.
Confirmatory Factor Analysis of Transfer Student Adjustment

Transfer students' adjustment to college has received substantial attention by researchers. This focus has predominately investigated the observation of transfer shock: a decrease in grade point average (GPA) experienced after transferring. In response to the persistent focus on transfer shock, growing attention has been directed toward other indicators of college adjustment suggesting that students who transfer may experience adjustment difficulties in domains other than academics (e.g., social and psychological). In addition, studies indicate that student experience in college differs by gender and race, and there are increased calls to determine the factors that differentiate these groups. However, no studies have validated whether different types of college adjustment are analytically distinct constructs and whether they differ by demographic group. This article uses confirmatory factor analysis to examine the factorial structure and measurement invariance of items from the Laanan-Transfer Student Que...
Weber after Weberian sociology

prospects for Weber and his sociology. Both Bendix and Parsons had just emerged from the centenary commemoration of Weber by the German Sociological Association in Heidelberg, an occasion that ranged in the style of the times from the adulatory to the acrimonious. Distancing himself from the politicized passions of colleagues, especially those in what used to be the West German state, Bendix touted "the open-ended quality of Weber's approach" as a legacy pointing the way for empirical, comparative, and historical studies carried forward by scholars like himself in the spirit of Weber's "own ascetic scientific ideal."' Never one to shy from the challenge of asceticism, Parsons similarly extolled Weber's substantive contribution and concluded that his "intellectual breakthrough ... heralded 'the end of ideology.' 2
Science in the political arena: Taking fire from the right and the left

Science is under assault from both ends of the political spectrum in the form of budget cuts and an increased mistrust of scientists' motives. The title of Vannevar Bush's seminal report “Science: The Endless Frontier” has taken on new meaning as federal science agencies have experienced the frontier justice of steep budget cuts or even elimination. The Bush report, which was published 50 years ago, is the blueprint for U.S. government support of scientific research and development since World War II. Crediting scientific and technological breakthroughs with helping to win the war, Bush portrayed research and development as an engine for promoting national security and prosperity. The national security aspect has not been seriously questioned, but the role of nondefense science is being drastically redrawn by the 104th Congress over President Clinton's protests. At the same time, scientists are facing challenges from partisan politics on the left as environmental groups take confrontational stances toward scientific research, often due to poor communication. Unless these challenges are met, science could lose its unique role as a source of objective information.
Stresses and Strains in High-Pressure Composite Hoses

A simple mechanical model for a high-pressure hose made of ethylene-propylene rubber reinforced with two helical steel wires and a layer of fabric is analyzed. The model assumes perfect bonding between the different constituents and the torsional effect due to the right-handed helical wires is neglected. Both linear and nonlinear stress-strain relations are considered for the rubber which is assumed to be incompressible. Stresses and strains of the constituents are obtained for different internal pressures and geometrical parameters.
Tuning the Activation Threshold of a Kinase Network by Nested Feedback Loops

Determining proper responsiveness to incoming signals is fundamental to all biological systems. We demonstrate that intracellular signaling nodes can tune a signaling network’s response threshold away from the basal median effective concentration established by ligand-receptor interactions. Focusing on the bistable kinase network that governs progesterone-induced meiotic entry in Xenopus oocytes, we characterized glycogen synthase kinase–3β (GSK-3β) as a dampener of progesterone responsiveness. GSK-3β engages the meiotic kinase network through a double-negative feedback loop; this specific feedback architecture raises the progesterone threshold in correspondence with the strength of double-negative signaling. We also identified a marker of nutritional status, l-leucine, which lowers the progesterone threshold, indicating that oocytes integrate additional signals into their cell-fate decisions by modulating progesterone responsiveness.
Ultrasound detection using polymer microring resonators

High Q-factor polymer microring resonators were experimentally demonstrated in ultrasound detection. They have sensitivity as high as 3/spl times/10/sup -3/ kP/sub a//sup -1/. We propose a method to form multi-element ultrasonic arrays for imaging applications.
Self-diffusion in asymmetric ring-linear blends

Abstract We use the bond-fluctuation model to measure self-diffusivity of asymmetric blends of cyclic and linear polymers, where the number of monomers in the cyclic and linear polymer are different. We consider two series of asymmetric blends and vary the relative composition. In particular, N C = 300 and N L = 150 , and N C = 150 and N L = 300 , where N C and N L are the number of monomers in the cyclic and linear polymers, respectively. Compared to cyclic polymers, the self-diffusivity of linear polymers is relatively insensitive to the blend composition, and is approximately within a factor of two of the pure linear self-diffusivity. In sharp contrast, the self-diffusivity of cyclic polymers exhibits a strong “order of magnitude” variation with the blend microenvironment. The latter data appear to be consistent with trends expected from previous simulations of symmetric cyclic-linear blends, as a function of the fraction of linear polymer.
Microfluidic Cell Volume Biosensor for High Throughput Drug Screening

The maintenance of cell volume is critical to health. Cell volume change reflects many biological and physiological processes. We have developed a lab-chip to measure cell volume change in real-time with high sensitivity and resolution, and applicable to both adherent and suspended cell populations. The volume change was detected by measuring the impedance of extra-cellular solution within a microfluidic chamber containing the cells. Using microfabrication to make precise chamber dimensions, volume change can be detected in response to an osmotic gradient <1mOsm. The sensor provides rapid screening of pharmaceutical agents affecting cell volume. We have screened for peptides that affect cell volume regulation and found one in spider venom that inhibits at ~100pM.
The effect of client industry structure on client preference for privacy and auditor concentration

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of a client's potentially conflicting needs for privacy and industry expertise on auditor concentration.Design/methodology/approach – The method examines the distribution of auditor concentration assuming that auditor choice occurs randomly. It then examines the observed distribution within the random assignment to consider whether the privacy or expertise motive dominates.Findings – The main finding is that at the client industry level, clients in a dominant firm industry structure prefer privacy; whereas clients in a competitive market structure prefer expertise.Research limitations/implications – An implication of this paper is that an increase in the number of large auditors may change auditor concentration in client industries that prefer privacy, an auditor different from its competitor.Practical implications – Policy makers should note that auditor concentration is not only a function of the number of auditors, but also of the client indu...
Coordination of C60 to Penta- and Hexaruthenium Cluster Frames

In refluxing chlorobenzene C60 reacts with Ru5C(CO)15 or with Ru6C(CO)17 to form new complexes, which are isolated following treatment with tertiary phosphines to give the structurally characterized, face-bonded derivatives Ru5C(CO)11(PPh3)(μ3-η2:η2:η2-C60) (1) and Ru6C(CO)12(dppm)(μ3-η2:η2:η2-C60) (2).
Quantifying the effect of the distal intrinsic release procedure on proximal interphalangeal joint flexion: a cadaveric study.

Purpose The distal intrinsic release procedure is a popular treatment for intrinsic hand tightness. The literature remains ambiguous regarding the optimal amount of extensor hood to excise. Our goals were to quantify the mathematic relationship between the amount of extensor hood excised and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint flexion and to determine the minimum amount of extensor hood excision required to significantly change PIP joint flexion capability (the ability to achieve a change from the initial PIP joint angle). Methods We simulated the distal intrinsic release procedure by sequentially excising 5-mm strips (perpendicular to the long axis of the finger) of the extensor hood of cadaveric fingers beginning 5 mm proximal to the PIP joint center. We tensioned the intrinsic muscles to each digit to produce an intrinsically tight state and tensioned the flexor digitorum superficialis to produce an antagonist force and simulate the intrinsic tightness test. We measured PIP joint angle (the angle of the long axis of the middle phalanx relative to the proximal phalanx) in response to greater portions of excised extensor hood to quantify its contribution to intrinsic tightness. Results The relationship between the amount of extensor hood excised and the PIP joint flexion capability appeared quadratic, not linear. For the index, ring, and small fingers significant changes in PIP joint flexion were detected after resection of 59%, 26%, and 33%, respectively, of the extensor hood length. Although our results did not show statistical significance for the middle finger we project the critical amount to be at least 65%. Conclusions We show PIP joint flexion changes after the distal intrinsic release procedure. We recommend excising a finger-dependent minimum amount of tissue before expecting a significant increase in PIP joint flexion capability.
CGKB: an annotation knowledge base for cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) methylation filtered genomic genespace sequences.

Background Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] is one of the most important food and forage legumes in the semi-arid tropics because of its ability to tolerate drought and grow on poor soils. It is cultivated mostly by poor farmers in developing countries, with 80% of production taking place in the dry savannah of tropical West and Central Africa. Cowpea is largely an underexploited crop with relatively little genomic information available for use in applied plant breeding. The goal of the Cowpea Genomics Initiative (CGI), funded by the Kirkhouse Trust, a UK-based charitable organization, is to leverage modern molecular genetic tools for gene discovery and cowpea improvement. One aspect of the initiative is the sequencing of the gene-rich region of the cowpea genome (termed the genespace) recovered using methylation filtration technology and providing annotation and analysis of the sequence data.
Omnifile: business file storage and retrieval

This is a very polished and professional business package. It is extremely easy for beginners to operate, has excellent documentation and form design capabilities. Simple retrieval can be quickly accomplished, and there are powerful techniques for preparing arithmetically‐oriented reports.
Comparative policy analysis

As editors, we would be remiss to submit that insufficient comparative policy analysis has been done without making explicit suggestions for further research. One critical problem is that the lack of comparable data remains a major hindrance to comparative work. This, in turn leads into the need for a larger inventory of careful cross-national case studies and primary data sources. Although significant advances have been made in data collection and analysis in recent years, these have occurred primarily in areas where quantification is relatively easy, such as economic and demographic statistics.1
Addressed exponential delay line theory of cochlear organization.

SINGLE unit studies of the auditory nerve, such as that of Tasaki1, have shown that the neurones innervating the cochlea are in general sharply tuned, each to its own characteristic frequency (CF). In response to a sharp click a unit of mid or low CF tends to fire repetitively and at preferred times, as if stimulated by a poorly damped resonator very sharply tuned to its CF2. In contrast, the travelling wave generated as the mechanical response to a pure tone, as measured by von Bekesy3, has a relatively flat amplitude envelope and the impulse response for the basilar membrane computed on the basis of von Bekesy's data indicates that the system is highly damped4. We propose a fresh approach, not based on the principle of mechanical resonance5–7.
Collaborating outsourcing of the IT help desk

help desk staff overly stressed trying to keep up with phone calls and email? Find out how Pima Community College (PCC) and the University of San Diego (USD) eased the burden for the help desk staff by collaborating with an outside partner.During our presentation, attendees should focus on the following: Communication between PerceptIS and Pima; PerceptIS and USDLesson 1 Transfer of knowledge -- Training -- Institutional knowledgeLesson 2 Implementation stage throughout the course of a semesterLesson 3 Develop a detailed communication planLesson 4 Have timeline of other functions coming on board -- Develop realistic metrics to determine quality of service
A study of leukocytosis in exercise

Hard muscular work is accompanied by a leucocytosis in normal individuals and trained athletes, the leucocytosis in football players often showing an increase of between 200% and 300%. The magnitude of leucocytosis is related to both the duration and the intensity of work. Excitement alone will not cause a leucocytosis. Intense exertion of short duration produces a lymphocytosis which is followed by a polynuclear stage if the work is continued for a long enough time. The average recovery curve exhibits no appreciable drop in leucocyte count during the two hours following a football game unless the player lies down immediately after leaving the field. The absolute lymphocyte count falls rapidly for an hour or more after the player leaves the game. The rapidity of the leucocyte changes, the evidence against leucocytolysis and the absence of an appreciable increase in theSchilling-Torgau “band-form” cells all point toward a storage phenomenon. The bone marrow, spleen, liver, lungs, and organs of internal secretion must be considered as possible reservoirs, although no definite statement can yet be made as to the relative importance of each. The fact that lactic acid, blood sugar, blood pressure, body temperature, and capillary dilation can be ruled out as separate variables directly related to leucocytosis in exercise points toward a stimulus perhaps more complicated than has yet been studied. Any explanation of leucocytosis in exercise involving only a simple physical mechanism cannot at present be considered adequate.
Mouse zinc transporter 1 gene provides an essential function during early embryonic development.

The SLC30 family of cation diffusion transporters includes at least nine members in mammals, most of which have been documented to play a role in zinc transport. The founding member of this family, Znt1, was discovered by virtue of its ability to efflux zinc from cells and to protect them from zinc toxicity. However, its physiological functions remain unknown. To address this issue, mice with targeted knockout of the Znt1 gene were generated by homologous recombination in embryonic stem cells. Heterozygous Znt1 mice were viable. In contrast, homozygous Znt1 mice died in utero soon after implantation due to a catastrophic failure of embryonic development. Although extraembryonic membranes formed around these embryos, the embryo proper failed to undergo morphogenesis past the egg cylinder stage and was amorphous by d9 of pregnancy. Expression of the Znt1 gene was detected predominantly in trophoblasts and in the maternal deciduum during the postimplantation period (d5 to d8). The failure of homozygous Znt1 embryos to develop could not be rescued by manipulating maternal dietary zinc (either excess or deficiency) during pregnancy. However, embryos in Znt1 heterozygous females were ∼3 times more likely to develop abnormally when exposed to maternal dietary zinc deficiency during later pregnancy than were those in wildtype females. These studies suggest that Znt1 serves an essential function of transporting maternal zinc into the embryonic environment during the egg cylinder stage of development, and further suggest that Znt1 plays a role in zinc homeostasis in adult mice. genesis 40:74–81, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A diametric mode of neuronal circuitry-neurogenesis coupling in the adult hippocampus via parvalbumin interneurons

Adult neurogenesis occurs within a specialized microenvironment (or niche), and is dynamically regulated by experience. However, the niche mechanism that couples neuronal circuitry activity to the production of new neurons is not well-understood. In our recent two studies published in Nature1 and Nature Neuroscience,2 we identified a novel niche mechanism involving parvalbumin (PV+) interneurons that couples local circuit activity to diametric regulation of the activation of quiescent neural stem cells (NSC) and the survival of their proliferating neural progeny, two critical early phases of adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Using a combination of optogenetics, lineage-tracing of adult NSCs, and retroviral mediated approach for birthdating of neural progenitors, we demonstrated that activation of PV+ interneurons, but not somatostatin (SST+) or vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP+) interneurons, suppresses the activation of quiescent NSCs, while simultaneously promotes the survival of proliferative newborn p...
Get to know your clones with CeDAR

This demonstration introduces the CeDAR Eclipse plug-in for Java that incorporates the results from different clone detection tools and displays properties of the clones in an IDE. Some properties are displayed directly in the source code editor for quicker access. In addition, current clone refactoring capabilities will be demonstrated.
The Solar System and its Origin

IN Prof. H. N. Russell's recent book of the above title, the belief is expressed that the assumption of the sun having been originally one component of a binary star would help to resolve certain difficulties. To get rid of the other member an almost central collision with another star is invoked, but I have shown that a close encounter of the sun's companion with another star may disrupt the system, both stars escaping from the sun.
The damage control sequence in the elderly: Strategy, complexities, and outcomes

Traditional management in cases of exsanguinating abdominal trauma led to poor outcomes in critically injured patients. Because prolonged operations were not well tolerated due to the severe physio...
Conveying emotion in robotic speech: Lessons learned

This research explored whether robots can use modern speech synthesizers to convey emotion with their speech. We investigated the use of MARY, an open source speech synthesizer, to convey a robot's emotional intent to novice robot users. The first experiment indicated that participants were able to distinguish the intended emotions of anger, calm, fear, and sadness with success rates of 65.9%, 68.9%, 33.3%, and 49.2%, respectively. An issue was the recognition rate of the intended happiness statements, 18.2%, which was below the 20% level determined for chance. The vocal prosody modifications for the expression of happiness were adjusted and the recognition rates for happiness improved to 30.3% in a second experiment. This is an important benchmarking step in a line of research that investigates the use of emotional speech by robots to improve human-robot interaction. Recommendations and lessons learned from this research are presented.
Supercritical desulfurization kinetics of illinois no. 5 coals

Abstract This paper describes a desulfurization process to remove both organic and inorganic sulfur from coal employing alcohols under supercritical conditions. The overall objective of this study was to gain a better understanding of the kinetics of the supercritical alcohol/coal desulfurization process. A microreactor system was developed to examine in detail the reaction kinetics of coal desulfurization under supercritical conditions. The microreactors provide a uniform temperature within the reactor and allow precise measurement of temperature. Desulfurization tests were conducted to obtain solid residues for sulfur analysis (% in product), as well as optical microscopic examination. The results of the analysis indicate that the desulfurization process is highly temperature dependent. Generally, with increased reaction temperature, desulfurization is increased. For all isothermal reactions there is at least one stage at which sulfur is reincorporated into the product. Pretreatment of coal with 5% KOH is desirable to prevent coke formation, but under the conditions studied, had little effect on ultimate desulfurization levels. Additions of KOH increased the rate at which ultimate desulfurization levels were reached.
Oogenesis in the terrestrial hermit crab Coenobita clypeatus (Decapoda, Anomura). I. Previtellogenic oocytes

Ultrastructural study of previtellogenic oocytes found in cystlike clusters scattered throughout the length of the bilobed ovary of the hermit crab Coenobita clypeatus shows a high nuclear:cytoplasm ratio. Large, round nuclei containing synaptinemal complexes serve as good temporal markers for identification of previtellogenic oocytes. The cytoplasm contains many smooth-membraned vesicles filled with granules and probably of nuclear origin. In addition to its complement of Golgi complexes, endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and free ribosomes, the cytoplasm also contains stacks of annulate lamellae, a feature not previously described for decapod oocytes. Typically, the previtellogenic oocyte with its accumulation of ribosomes has the appearance of a nonsynthetic cell preparing to go through a metabolic transition.
18O/16O evidence for an early, short-lived (∼10 yr), fumarolic event in the Topopah Spring Tuff near the proposed high-level nuclear waste repository within Yucca Mountain, Nevada, USA

Abstract 18 O/ 16 O analyses of rock samples from the Exploratory Studies Facility (ESF) and from three other locations in the vicinity of Yucca Mountain, Nevada, suggest that the uppermost 5–20 m of the 12.8 Ma Topopah Spring Tuff displays a characteristic 18 O/ 16 O pattern that is indicative of short-lived (∼10 yr), high-temperature (∼500°C), fumarolic meteoric-hydrothermal activity. Hydrothermally altered rock is characterized by 1–3-m-thick zones of 18 O-depleted groundmass (down to δ 18 O=+5.5) located above and locally within the upper vitrophyre, as well as complementary, 2–4-m-thick, overlying zones of 18 O-enriched (as high as δ 18 O=+13.7), mineralogically altered, groundmass. Thirty-four samples of the Topopah Spring Tuff collected below the upper vitrophyre are not hydrothermally altered and correspondingly display a more uniform set of δ 18 O values (δ 18 O=+8.6 to +11.1). Sanidine phenocrysts from fumarolically altered tuff in the upper cooling unit are petrographically pristine and also display uniform δ 18 O values (δ 18 O=+7.80±0.45), which are in isotopic equilibrium with other phenocryst phases at magmatic temperatures. The 18 O/ 16 O signature displayed by the upper part of the Topopah Spring Tuff is analogous to that produced by short-lived (10–25 yr), high-temperature (500°C), fumarolic activity in the Bishop Tuff and in the 1912 ash-flow sheet in the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, Alaska. The remarkable preservation of a fragile, fumarolic 18 O/ 16 O signature in the upper part of the Topopah Spring Tuff indicates that no subsequent hydrothermal alteration of this part of the tuff has occurred.
The hydrodynamics of confined dispersions

A method is proposed for computing the low-Reynolds-number hydrodynamic forces on particles comprising a suspension confined by two parallel, no-slip walls. This is constructed via the two-dimensional analogue of Hasimoto’s solution (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 5, 1959, pp. 317–328) for a periodic array of point forces in a viscous, incompressible fluid, and, like Hasimoto, the summation of interactions is accelerated by substitution and superposition of ‘Ewald-like’ forcing. This method is akin to the accelerated Stokesian dynamics technique (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 448, 2001, pp. 115–146) and models the suspension dynamics with log–linear computational scaling. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated with a calculation of the high-frequency dynamic viscosity of a colloidal dispersion as function of volume fraction and channel width. Similarly, the short-time self-diffusivity for and the sedimentation rate of spherical particles in a confined suspension are determined. The results demonstrate the influence of confining geometry on the transport of small particles, which is becoming increasingly important for micro- and biofluidics.
Predicting the structure and mode of vegetation dynamics: An application of graph theory to state-and-transition models

Abstract The recent literature suggests that the network structure of ecological states within a system can determine whether the system's response to environmental changes is reinforced by positive feedback mechanisms (amplification); rapidly propagated throughout the entire network of states (synchronization); or structurally constrained. The purpose of this research was to predict these various modes of system dynamics in the context of vegetation change represented as state-and-transition models (STMs) at a salt marsh of the Danish Wadden Sea. In the STM framework, several different plant communities identified by a classification approach were regarded as multiple alternative “states,” with “transitions” defined by observed transformations among the communities over time. Treating these STMs as mathematical graphs, three metrics from algebraic graph theory—spectral radius, algebraic connectivity, and S-metric—were calculated to characterize the degree of amplification, synchronization, and structural constraint, respectively. Results demonstrated that observed vegetation dynamics underwent stronger amplification and synchronization, and weaker constraint than hypothesized benchmark patterns such as linear sequential, cyclic, convergent, and divergent dynamics. These findings indicate that, as marsh development proceeds through vegetation processes, the connectivity among plant communities becomes enhanced, which corresponds to a higher possibility for abrupt and complex system reorganization in response to environmental changes (e.g., gradual sea-level variations and storm surges). In this way, the coupled graph theory and STM approach contributes to identifying holistic properties of an ecological system that are otherwise not evident from the conventional theories (e.g., the continuum concept) and methodologies (e.g., gradient analysis).
Electromagnetic scattering from a radially inhomogeneous sphere

The generalization of the Lorenz-Mie theory for scattering from a homogeneous sphere to a radially inhomogeneous sphere is given. In this case, the scatterer consists of a spherical body with any number of concentric homogeneous regions. The treatment makes use of the analogy with non-uniform transmission line theory.