Sensing nitrous oxide with QCL-coupled silicon-on-sapphire ring resonators.

We report the initial evaluation of a mid-infrared QCL-coupled silicon-on-sapphire ring resonator gas sensor. The device probes the N(2)O 2241.79 cm(-1) optical transition (R23 line) in the ν(3) vibrational band.

Real-time calibration of laser absorption spectrometer using spectral correlation performed with an in-line gas cell.

A real-time drift correction and calibration method using spectral correlation based on a revolving in-line gas cell for laser-based spectroscopic trace-gas measurements has been developed and evaluated experimentally. This technique is relatively simple to implement in laser spectroscopy systems and assures long-term stability of trace-gas measurements by minimizing the effects of external sources of drift in real-time. Spectroscopic sensitivity sufficient for environmental monitoring and effective drift suppression has been achieved for long-term measurements of CO₂ with a quantum cascade laser based spectrometer.

Academic outcomes in children with congenital heart disease.

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is often associated with intellectual, developmental, and academic late effects related to the diagnosis itself and treatment. This literature review examines what is currently understood about these intellectual and academic deficits. It appears that children with CHD, and particularly those with cyanotic CHD, are at risk for significant impairments in visual spatial skills, visual motor skills, and overall processing speed.