cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Compounds containing the [Zr6Cl18H4]4− cluster anion

Abstract Substitution of phosphine ligands in compounds [Zr6Cl14H4(PR3)4] with Cl− results in the rapid formation of compounds containing [Zr6Cl18H4]4−. Compounds [PPh4]4[Zr6Cl18H4] (2b) and [NEt4]4[Zr6Cl18H4] (2c) were isolated from the reaction of [Zr6Cl14H4(PMe3)4] with [PPh4]Cl and [NEt4]Cl, respectively. Compounds [Zr6Cl14H4(PR3)4] are intrinsically unstable in solution, and are converted gradually into [HPR3]4[Zr6Cl18H4] (2e, R = Me; 2f, R = Pr; 2g, R = Bu). When [NBu4]Cl was present, the decomposition of [Zr6Cl14H4(PMe3)4] in MeCN resulted in the isolation of [NBu4]4[Zr6Cl18H4] (2d). [MePEt3]2[PPh4]2[Zr6Cl18H4] (2h) was obtained from the reaction of [Zr6Cl14H4(PEt3)4] with [PPh4]Cl in CH2Cl2. The phosphonium cation [MePEt3]+ was derived from the reaction of PEt3 with CH2Cl2 and residual HSnBu3 in the solution. [Zr6Cl18H4]4− was also isolated in the form of a minor product, [Et3NCH2Ph]6[ZrCl6][Zr6Cl18H4] (2a), from the reaction of ZrCl4 with HSnBu3 followed by addition of [Et3NCH2Ph]Cl. 1H NMR spectra of compounds 2a–2h showed there are four cluster hydrogen atoms in the cluster anion, [Zr6Cl18H4]4−. Compounds 2a–2e and 2h were also characterized by X-ray single crystal diffraction. In compounds 2a, 2d and 2h, four cluster hydrogen atoms were found to be distributed slightly inside the centers of all eight triangular faces of the Zr6 octahedron. Compound 2a·4MeCN crystallized in the triclinic space group P 1 with cell dimensions (−60°C) of a = 12.868(3), b = 13.605(3), c = 20.534(3) A , α = 93.46(2), β = 106.19(1), γ = 117.94(2)°, V = 2972(1) A 3 , and Z = 1 . Compound 2b·4MeCN crystallized in the triclinic space group P 1 with cell dimensions(−60°C) of a = 14.468(2), b = 16.027(3), c = 13.435(3) A , α = 104.51(9), β = 91.91(2), γ = 72.18(1)°, V = 2853.5(6) A 3 , and Z = 1 . Compound 2c·2MeCN crystallized in the monoclinic space group P21/n with cell dimensions (−60°C) of a = 13.032(2), b = 13.283(4), c = 20.550(5) A , β = 104.22(2)°, V = 3448(1) A 3 , and Z = 2. Compound 2d crystallized in the monoclinic space group P21/c with cell dimensions (−60°C) of a = 14.795(3), b = 14.923(7), c = 21.900(4) A , β = 93.28(1)°, V = 4827(3) A 3 , and Z = 2 . Compound 2e·4MeCN crystallized in the orthorhombic space group F2mm with cell dimensions (20°C) of a = 26.924(2), b = 38.489(3), c = 24.703(2) A , V = 25599(3) A 3 , and Z = 16 . Compound 2h·2CH2Cl2 crystallized in the triclinic space group P 1 with cell dimensios (20°C) of a = 13.317(2), b = 14.731(3), c = 13.258(3) A , α = 108.09(2), β = 119.22(3), γ = 86.11(3)°, V = 2146.7(7) A 3 , and Z = 1 .
Three-Dimensional Analysis of Gas Turbine Combustors

To achieve the required performance goals and structural durability of gas turbine combustion systems, a design approach was formulated to guide the development effort of the combustor. The approach combines the capabilities of the analytical tools with well-established empirical correlations. By this means, the impact of systematic modification to the details of the burner is easily determined. The validation effort of the developed model included the utilization of the data obtained for a number of production combustors that significantly varied in design and concept. Fuels used in these combustors included typical aviation fuels such as JP-4 and DF-2 as well as specially prepared high-density fuels. Model validation also involved the application of the model in the development phases of an annular combustor. Several modifications to the dome and primary zone features were proposed in this effort. The predictions of the combustor performance and wall temperatures made using the present approach were found to be in good agreement with the measurements.
Organ size determination and the limits of regulation.

The size of an organism dictates both its functional challenges and how it meets them. Despite being a universal feature of all living creatures, how an organism determines its size, and that of its internal organs, is largely unknown. In particular, the mechanisms by which organs sense magnitude and alter cellular behavior to ensure symmetry, proportionality, and correct final size are unknown. This review outlines our current understanding of the field and highlights several important outstanding questions.
Urban determinants of racial differentiation in infant mortality.

This study relates differential socioeconomic status between blacks and whites to racial differentiation in infant mortality rates. The basic assumption is that decreases in socioeconomic differentiation and related variables lead to decreases in the black—white infant mortality differential. A comparative approach based on aggregate measures of socioeconomic differentiation is utilized to compare sixty-one United States urban places. Path analysis shows that neonatal mortality differentiation is virtually unaffected by socioeconomic differentials while decreased racial differences in hospital births tend to increase neonatal mortality differentiation. In contrast, postneonatal differentiation is affected by socioeconomic differentiation, especially along the dimensions of income, education, and regional location. It is concluded that despite some suggestions that infant mortality is no longer responsive to socioeconomic factors, postneonatal differentation is affected by socioeconomic differentials when comparison is based on city units.
Spatiotemporal Structure of REM Sleep Twitching Reveals Developmental Origins of Motor Synergies

Summary Background: During active (or REM) sleep, infant mammals exhibit myoclonic twitches of skeletal muscles throughout the body, generating jerky, discrete movements of the distal limbs. Hundreds of thousands of limb twitches are produced daily, and sensory feedback from these movements is a substantial driver of infant brain activity, suggesting that they contribute to motor learning and sensorimotor integration. It is not known whether the production of twitches is random or spatiotemporally structured, or whether the patterning of twitching changes with age; such information is critical for understanding how twitches contribute to development. Results: We used high-speed videography and 3D motion tracking to assess the spatiotemporal structure of twitching at forelimb joints in 2- and 8-day-old rats. At both ages, twitches exhibited highly structured spatiotemporal properties at multiple timescales, including synergistic and multijoint movements within and across forelimbs. Hierarchical cluster analysis and latent class analysis revealed developmental changes in twitching quantity and patterning. Critically, we found evidence for a selectionist process whereby movement patterns at the early age compete for retention and expression over development. Conclusions: These findings indicate that twitches are not produced randomly but are highly structured at multiple timescales. This structure has important implications for understanding brain and spinal mechanisms that produce twitching, and the role that sensory feedback from twitching plays in sensorimotor system development. We propose that twitches represent a heretofore-overlooked form of motor exploration that helps animals probe the biomechanics of their limbs, build motor synergies, and lay a foundation for complex, automatic, and goal-directed wake movements.
Self-Assembled Silicon Microdevices Driven by Muscle

Over the last two decades, a variety of micro-robotic systems have been developed including electrothermal, electrostatic, electrochemical, piezoelectric, and electromagnetic actuators based on MEMS technology. The development of these micro-actuators promises a revolution in biological and medical research and applications analogous to that brought about by the miniaturization of electrical devices in information technology. For example, controllable manipulation of these tiny actuators may enable precise temporal and spatial delivery of chemicals, micro-optics or microelectronics to specific targeted sites.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Thromboxane in the pathogenesis of glomerular injury in diabetes.

Thromboxane in the pathogenesis of glomerular injury in diabetes. The present study examined the role of thromboxane (TX) in the initiation and progression of glomerular injury in diabetic rats, as reflected by albuminuria and glomerular histology. Urinary thromboxane and albumin excretion (U TX and U Alb ) were elevated by four months after induction of diabetes in the moderately hyperglycemic (200 to 400 mg/dl glucose) streptozotocin diabetic rat (SDR) compared to age-matched control rats. U TX and U Alb both increased progressively in SDR over the seven month period of study. Glomerular TX production, glomerular volume, fractional and absolute mesangial volume and glomerular basement membrane (GBM) width were also increased after seven months in SDR compared to control. Treatment of SDR with a thromboxane synthetase inhibitor (TXI) 4′ (imidazol-l-yl) acetophenone (100 mg/kg/day) for seven months beginning at the time of induction of diabetes prevented the increases in U TX , U Alb , glomerular TX production, glomerular volume and mesangial volume and attenuated, but did not prevent, GBM thickening. When the same dose of the TXI was begun five months after induction of diabetes and continued for two months, U TX and ex vivo glomerular TX production were reduced by only 60% compared to untreated SDR and remained higher than corresponding values in control rats. Delayed treatment with the TXI alone did not alter U Alb compared to untreated SDR. By contrast, treatment of five month albuminuric SDR for only two months with the TXI plus the TX receptor antagonist (TXRA) Bay U3405 (5 mg/kg/day) prevented a further increase in U Alb , and reduced fractional albumin clearance and mesangial volume compared to values in untreated SDR. Combined treatment with the TXI and TXRA had no effect on GBM width or glomerular volume compared to values in untreated SDR. The results support roles for TX in the initiation of, and for TX and/or endoperoxides in the progression of glomerular injury in SDR.
Retrospective Analysis of Hospital Mergers

Abstract Retrospective analyses of hospital mergers may be uniquely valuable because they speak directly to two important issues – the methods used for delineating relevant geographic markets in hospital merger analysis, and the implications of not‐for‐profit status on post‐merger hospital pricing – that have been systematically misunderstood by the courts and other policy analysts, and which likely have led to systematically biased judicial decisions. By identifying these systematic analytical errors and their implications for judicial decision making, retrospective studies of consummated hospital mergers have the capacity to greatly improve the quality of future antitrust policy making.
Induction of feeding by 7-chlorokynurenic acid, a strychnine-insensitive glycine binding site antagonist.

Two experiments examined the involvement of the strychnine-insensitive glycine binding site (SIGBS) of the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor/channel complex in feeding behavior. The first experiment demonstrated that the SIGBS antagonist, 7-chlorokynurenic acid (7CK), dose-dependently increased food intake in rats without producing significant locomotor deficits or stereotypies. The second experiment showed thatd-serine, a SIGBS agonist, dose-dependently antagonized 7CK induced feeding, such that at the highest dose of d-serine used 7CK induced feeding was completely abolished, demonstrating that the effects of 7CK are specific to an action at the SIGBS.
Influence of scanning density on macular choroidal volume measurement using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography

To evaluate the impact of scanning density on macular choroidal volume measurement using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Thirty eyes of normal subjects underwent consecutive raster choroidal scanning protocols using SD-OCT in enhanced-depth imaging mode. Manual choroidal segmentation was performed using the built-in automated retinal segmentation software to obtain five analyses with different inter-scan distances, including inter-scan distances of 30 μm, 60 μm, 120 μm, 240 μm, and 480 μm. The built-in software of the device automatically generated the choroidal thickness and volume map in the similar manner as for the retinal volume map, using the standardized Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) grid. For each raster scan, mean absolute difference and relative difference of mean foveal choroidal thickness (FCT), foveal choroidal volume (FCV) and total macular choroidal volume (TCV) in comparison to “true value” (i.e., 30-μm inter-scan distance) were calculated. The maximum relative differences were 10 % and 16 % for TCV and FCV respectively. For mean FCT, the maximum absolute difference was 31 μm, and maximum relative difference was 12.7 %. No statistically significant differences were found in measurements of mean foveal choroidal thickness (p = 0.912) and volume (p = 0.944), as well as macular choroidal volume (p = 0.912), with varying inter-scan distance. Our study shows that approximately 16 scans over the macula with a inter-scan distance of 480 μm is sufficient to provide a clinically relevant and reliable choroidal thickness/volume map. This information could be useful in the design of choroidal scanning protocols for future clinical trials.
Switched reluctance motor drive systems dynamic performance prediction under internal and external fault conditions

In this second of a set of two companion papers on the dynamic performance of switched reluctance motor drive systems, the results of using an iterative approach to predict the dynamic performance characteristics of a motor drive system during fault conditions are presented. The method is applied to a 6/4, 0.15 hp, 5000 r/min switched reluctance motor drive system to study an external fault due to the failure of a transistor in the converter. The model is also used to study an internal fault due to a partial armature phase short. The analysis resulted in the performance characteristics of the motor drive system which are verified by comparison to experimental data. In addition, the effects of mutual coupling between motor phases on the analysis results are evaluated. >
Progress to a Gallium-Arsenide Deep-Center Laser

Although photoluminescence from gallium-arsenide (GaAs) deep-centers was first observed in the 1960s, semiconductor lasers have always utilized conduction-to-valence-band transitions. Here we review recent materials studies leading to the first GaAs deep-center laser. First, we summarize well-known properties: nature of deep-center complexes, Franck-Condon effect, hotoluminescence. Second, we describe our recent work: insensitivity of photoluminescence with heating, striking differences between electroluminescence and photoluminescence, correlation between transitions to deep-states and absence of bandgap-emission. Room-temperature stimulated-emission from GaAs deep-centers was observed at low electrical injection, and could be tuned from the bandgap to half-the-bandgap (900–1,600 nm) by changing the electrical injection. The first GaAs deep-center laser was demonstrated with electrical injection, and exhibited a threshold of less than 27 mA/cm2 in continuous-wave mode at room temperature at the important 1.54 μm fiber-optic wavelength. This small injection for laser action was explained by fast depopulation of the lower state of the optical transition (fast capture of free holes onto deep-centers), which maintains the population inversion. The evidence for laser action included: superlinear L-I curve, quasi-Fermi level separations satisfying Bernard-Duraffourg’s criterion, optical gains larger than known significant losses, clamping of the optical-emission from lossy modes unable to reach laser action, pinning of the population distribution during laser action.
Which Motoric Condition Is Most Effective for Teaching Spelling to Students With and Without Learning Disabilities

The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of three motoric conditions (writing, tracing, and computer keyboarding) on the spelling performance of 24 third- and fourth-grade students without learning disabilities (NLD) (15 males, 9 females) and 24 third- and fourth-grade students with learning disabilities (LD) (16 males, 8 females). This study applied empirically based procedures for teaching spelling, examined student performance over time, and incorporated student interviews concerning their preference for motoric condition. For number of words spelled and proportion of bi-grams (correct letter sequences) used correctly, significant differences were found between the LD and NLD groups, both at posttest and follow-up, with the NLD students learning to spell more words and apply more correct bi-grams than the students with LD. There was no significant effect for condition for either words spelled or bi-grams, indicating that students did not learn significantly more words in the writing, tra...
5S RNA structure and interaction with transcription factor A. 2. Ribonuclease probe of the 7S particle from Xenopus laevis immature oocytes and RNA exchange properties of the 7S particle

The 5S RNA complexed in the 7S particle of immature Xenopus laevis oocytes was 32P labeled at its 3' end and then subjected in situ to partial digestion using ribonucleases T1, T2, A, and V1 in order to study the conformation of the complexed RNA and its interaction with the transcription factor A (TFIIIA). Digested samples were gel purified to retrieve 5S RNA that was still complexed with the transcription factor protein, and the cleavages in these RNAs were analyzed on sequencing gels. The RNA associated with the 7S particle is very susceptible to ribonuclease activity despite the presence of the protein. Also, the 5S RNA in the 7S particle is in a different conformation from renatured Xenopus laevis (Xlo) 5S RNA and appears to have less secondary structure predominantly in the stem that includes helices IV and V. A species of native Xlo 5S RNA which was isolated from 7S particle preparations under nondenaturing conditions revealed a conformation that was more similar to the 5S RNA in the 7S particle than to renatured 5S RNA. Comparison of data from partial ribonuclease digestions performed on renatured 5S RNA, on the native 5S RNA, and on the complexed 5S RNA allowed us to approximate sites of protein-induced structural change in the complexed 5S RNA, which may signal protein interaction domains. These sites include the 5' side of helices III and V. In another approach to the study of 5S RNA-TFIIIA interactions, we have observed that incubation of 32P-labeled Xlo 5S RNA with 7S particles results in the incorporation of labeled RNA into 7S particles.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
USE OF BROMATE IN VOLUMETRIC ANALYSIS: VII, POTENTIOMETRIC TITRATION OF HYDROXyQUINOLINE

The potentiometric titration of 8-hydrOxyquinoline and the metallic inner complexes, i.e., magnesium oxyquinolate, is described, using direct titration with a standard bromate solution of the hydrochloric acid solution of the hydroxyquinoline or its derivatives with particular reference to magnesium oxyquinolate. Potentiometric procedures for direct determination have been developed using the electrode system, platinum-nickel. This procedure involves the use of the monometallic, platinum-platinum electrode pair and the electron beam sectrometer as the recording instrument, which has a distinct advantage of speed and equal accuracy over previous electrometric titrations. A series of experimental analyses has been carried out both on the hydroxyquinoline and its magnesium salt. The procedure is well adapted to routine plant control analyses, and a separation of calcium prior to the determination of magnesium is not required.
Luminescence Properties of Indirect Bandgap Semiconductors: Nanocrystals of Silver Bromide

Abstract Using a modified reverse micelle protocol with acetyl bromide as the bromide source, AgBr nanocrystals can be grown over a size range from 30 A radius to bulk. These clusters exhibit quantum confinement indicated by an increasing blue shift of the free exciton emission peak as a function of size. As the cluster size decreases, a concomitant decrease occurs in the apparent radiative lifetime. This is predicted as the k selection rules break down at small crystal diameters. However, the effects are quite modest. indicating that even at these smallest sizes, the indirect character of the transition is largely retained.
Comprehensive desmosome mutation analysis in north americans with arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia/cardiomyopathy.

Background— Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia/cardiomyopathy (ARVD/C) is an inherited disorder typically caused by mutations in components of the cardiac desmosome. The prevalence and significance of desmosome mutations among patients with ARVD/C in North America have not been described previously. We report comprehensive desmosome genetic analysis for 100 North Americans with clinically confirmed or suspected ARVD/C. Methods and Results— In 82 individuals with ARVD/C and 18 people with suspected ARVD/C, DNA sequence analysis was performed on PKP2, DSG2, DSP, DSC2 , and JUP. In those with ARVD/C, 52% harbored a desmosome mutation. A majority of these mutations occurred in PKP2 . Notably, 3 of the individuals studied have a mutation in more than 1 gene. Patients with a desmosome mutation were more likely to have experienced ventricular tachycardia (73% versus 44%), and they presented at a younger age (33 versus 41 years) compared with those without a desmosome mutation. Men with ARVD/C were more likely than women to carry a desmosome mutation (63% versus 38%). A mutation was identified in 5 of 18 patients (28%) with suspected ARVD. In this smaller subgroup, there were no significant phenotypic differences identified between individuals with a desmosome mutation compared with those without a mutation. Conclusions— Our study shows that in 52% of North Americans with ARVD/C a mutation in one of the cardiac desmosome genes can be identified. Compared with those without a desmosome gene mutation, individuals with a desmosome gene mutation had earlier-onset ARVD/C and were more likely to have ventricular tachycardia. Received February 12, 2009; accepted May 27, 2009. # CLINICAL PERSPECTIVE {#article-title-2}
Altered ethanol-associated behaviors in vesicular monoamine transporter heterozygote knockout mice

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of the genetic reduction of vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) on voluntary ethanol consumption and conditioned place preference (CPP) using VMAT2 heterozygote knockout mice [VMAT2(+/-)]. Ethanol preference and consumption were assessed in a two-bottle choice procedure, and rewarding properties of ethanol were determined using a CPP paradigm. In the two-bottle choice VMAT2(+/-) male mice exhibited a decreased preference for and consumption of ethanol at all concentrations tested, as compared to their wild-type littermates. While female mice consumed more ethanol than male mice, there was no difference between the wild type and VMAT2(+/-). In the CPP experiment, wild-type mice exhibited place preference for the ethanol-paired environment while neither male or female VMAT2(+/-) mice developed place preference. Wild type and VMAT2(+/-) mice did not differ in blood ethanol metabolism and sensitivity to the depressant effects of ethanol. These data demonstrate that a reduction of VMAT2 expression reduces ethanol consumption in male mice and eliminates place preference in heterozygote mice of both sexes and suggests that altered VMAT2 expression may contribute to the rewarding properties of ethanol.
Transient finite element analysis computational reduction technique

The finite element analysis of a large, complex region under transient magnetic field conditions often requires significant computational time; the solution of realistic problems may be rendered impractical by this computational burden. Often, however, the entire solution of the region being modelled is not of interest. For example, the area of interest of a system composed of magnetic material and air gaps subject to magnetic field transients is often limited to the conducting regions which support eddy currents. This paper presents a methodology which significantly reduces the computational time required for a transient finite element analysis of such problems by solving for only the pertinent regions with no effect on result accuracy. >
Normalization of mass cytometry data with bead standards

Mass cytometry uses atomic mass spectrometry combined with isotopically pure reporter elements to currently measure as many as 40 parameters per single cell. As with any quantitative technology, there is a fundamental need for quality assurance and normalization protocols. In the case of mass cytometry, the signal variation over time due to changes in instrument performance combined with intervals between scheduled maintenance must be accounted for and then normalized. Here, samples were mixed with polystyrene beads embedded with metal lanthanides, allowing monitoring of mass cytometry instrument performance over multiple days of data acquisition. The protocol described here includes simultaneous measurements of beads and cells on the mass cytometer, subsequent extraction of the bead-based signature, and the application of an algorithm enabling correction of both short- and long-term signal fluctuations. The variation in the intensity of the beads that remains after normalization may also be used to determine data quality. Application of the algorithm to a one-month longitudinal analysis of a human peripheral blood sample reduced the range of median signal fluctuation from 4.9-fold to 1.3-fold.
Internationalization of gold and nickel nanowires by living cells

Stevens Institute of Technology, Castle Point on the Hudson, Hoboken, NJ 07030 ABSTRACT Ferromagnetic nanowires poise an intriguing way of separating cells. The length of nanowires affects the cell separation yield and cellular internationalization process of nanowires. While the application of nanowires brings new exciting perspectives in biomedical engineering, the interaction betw een nanowires and cells needs to be further exploited. This paper presents the study on the interactions of various Ni and Au nanowires with adherent and suspended cells, and the effects of magnetic field on the cell adherent be havior in the presence of Ni nanowires. Keywords: ferromagnetic nanowires, segmented nanowires, electrodeposition, cell adhesion, internalization 1. INTRODUCTION Ferromagnetic Ni nanowires have recently been used in magnetic cell manipulation and separation
What Teens Want to Know: Sexual Health Questions Submitted to a Teen Web Site

Abstract In 1999 Planned Parenthood® Federation of America (PPFA) launched teenwire.comsm, a Web site for young people. This study was designed to determine teens' reproductive health information needs. Selected for analysis were 1,219 submissions to the Ask the Experts section of the Web site. Each submission was independently coded by three of the authors. Findings suggest that the Internet is a useful way to provide teens with access to sexuality information, and that it can reach a wide audience of teens. Of possible concern in this study were the findings that teens asked very few questions about sexually transmitted infections, relatively few males submitted questions to the site, and teens were asking about sex behaviors at significantly younger ages than they were asking about services, pregnancy, or contraception/protection. A combination of educational resources, including Web sites, are necessary to provide teens with the vital information they need to be sexually healthy.
Special senses are really special: Evidence for a reciprocal, bilateral pathway between insular cortex and nucleus parabrachialis

Abstract Nucleus parabrachialis (NPB) is implicated in gustation and a wide range of visceral and homeostatic functions. The nucleus was recently shown to be the major relay for second order gustatory and general visceral afferent (GVA) pathways from the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) to the gustatory-GVA division of the ventrobasal thalamus (VBcm) via the parabrachial nucleus (NPB). VBcm projects to the primary cortical sensory area for these modalities in the insular cortex (IC). In the present report anterograde and retrograde transport of either HRP or wheat germ agglutinin conjugated to HRP (WGA-HRP) revealed a strong, direct, reciprocal connection between NPB and IC. Inputs from and outputs to the contralaterai NPB were also seen. Thus, in addition to the thalamo-cortical (VBcm → IC) ascending gustatory-GVA pathway, there is a more direct route to primary cortex from third order neurons in NPB. With the exception of olfaction, all other ascending lemniscal sensory systems have an obligatory synaptic relay in the thalamus en route to their primary cortex. The present study demonstrates that the gustatory-GVA system has both; information from these modalities may reach their cortical area via a thalamic relay and via direct projections from NPB. Moreover, both olfactory and gustatory-GVA pathways impinge upon limbic structures without a thalamo-cortical relay. In these regards, the special senses—olfaction, gustation and general visceral afference—are really special. The strong, reciprocal projection from IC to NPB compliments our previous description [40] of a bilateral pathway from this same cortical area to NTS and several brainstem visceromotor nuclei. Taken together, these findings suggest that there is a well-organized cortical substrate for gustatory and visceral afference which may have a functionally important descending influence on both the afferent and motoneuronal aspects of gustatory-autonomic brainstem mechanisms.
On Efficient Computation of the Steady-State Response of Linear Systems With Periodic Coefficients

An efficient method for obtaining the steady-state response of linear systems with periodically time varying coefficients is developed. The steady-state solution is obtained by dividing the fundamental period into a number of intervals and establishing, based on a fourth-order Rung-Kutta formulation, the relation between the response at the start and end of the period. Imposition of periodicity condition upon the response facilitates computation of the initial condition that yields the steady-state values in a single pass; i.e., integration over only one period. Through a practical example, the method is shown to be more accurate and computationally more efficient than other known methods for computing the steady-state response.
Attempts to train goldfish to respond to magnetic field stimuli

Two different conditioning procedures, one appetitive and the other aversive, were used in separate attempts to demonstrate response to magnetic fields in the goldfish, Carassius auratus. Our results lead us to question those of an orientation experiment by Becker, although we recognize the possibility that goldfish may be sensitive primarily to magnetic field direction rather than intensity and that their directional sensitivity may be evidenced most readily by orientation in the field.
Logistic growth curve analysis in associative learning data

We propose an alternative statistical method, logistic growth curve analysis, for the analysis of associative learning data with two or more comparison groups. Logistic growth curve analysis is more sensitive and easier to interpret than previously published methods such as χ2 or ANOVA, which require the data to be collapsed into individual total scores or proportion of responses over time. Additionally, this type of analysis better fits the typical graphical representation of associative learning data. An analysis is presented where associative learning data from honeybees are analyzed using the three techniques, and the accessibility and power of the logistic growth curve analysis is highlighted.
The Other Medical Home

Financial Disclosures: None reported. Additional Contributions: Shereen Arent, JD, American Diabetes Association, and Gary Gross, JD, Epilepsy Foundation (whose organizations offer legal advocacy services to physicians and patients related to disability discrimination), and John Kraemer, JD, MPH, O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, Georgetown University, made important contributions to this Commentary, none of whom received compensation.
Mitochondrial Permeability Transition in the Central Nervous System: Induction by Calcium Cycling‐Dependent and ‐Independent Pathways

Abstract: Isolated rat CNS mitochondria and cultured cortical astrocytes were examined for behavior indicative of a mitochondrial permeability transition (mPT). Exposure of isolated CNS mitochondria to elevated calcium or phosphate or both produced loss of absorbance indicative of mitochondrial swelling. The absorbance decreases were prevented by ADP and Mg2+ and reduced by cyclosporin A, dithiothreitol, and N-ethylmaleimide. Ruthenium red prevented calcium cycling-induced, but only attenuated phosphate-induced losses of absorbance. In cultured astrocytes permeabilized with digitonin or treated with the calcium ionophore, 4-bromo-A23187, elevations of external calcium altered mitochondrial morphology visualized with the dye, JC-1, from rod-like to rounded, swollen structures. Similar changes were observed in digitonin-permeabilized astrocytes exposed to phosphate. The incidence of calcium-induced changes in astrocyte mitochondria was prevented by Mg2+ and pretreatment with dithiothreitol and N-ethylmaleimide, and was reduced by cyclosporin A, ADP, and butacaine alone or in combinations. Ruthenium red and the Na+/Ca2+ exchange inhibitor CGP 37157 blocked calcium cycling and prevented mitochondrial shape changes in digitonin-treated, but not ionophore-treated astrocytes. Thus, the demonstrated induction conditions and pharmacological profile indicated the existence of an mPT in brain mitochondria. The mPT occurred consequent to activation of calcium cycling-dependent and -independent pathways. Induction of an mPT could contribute to neuronal injury following ischemia and reperfusion.
Fitness of neuraminidase inhibitor–resistant influenza A viruses

Antiviral drugs are important components for the control of influenza. The key question is whether antiviral use or natural virus evolution will lead to the emergence of drug-resistant virus with comparable or superior fitness to drug-susceptible counterpart. Currently, neuraminidase (NA) inhibitors (NAIs) are the first choice for influenza prevention and treatment. In this article we will review complex process of the risk assessment for the fitness of NAIs-resistant seasonal H1N1 and H3N2, pandemic 2009 H1N1, and highly pathogenic H5N1 influenza A viruses: identification of antiviral susceptibility, degree of functional NA loss, molecular markers of resistance, and evaluation of replicative ability in vivo, virulence and transmissibility in animal studies (mouse, ferret, and guinea pig models).
Monoclonal antibody to immediate early protein encoded by varicella-zoster virus gene 62.

Abstract Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were prepared against varicella-zoster virus (VZV)-infected cell proteins, and 10 mAbs which reacted with nuclear antigens were selected. These mAbs recognized a major 175–180 kDa and three minor VZV-specific phosphoprotein species. Immunofluorescence staining of VZV-infected cells showed that the 175–180 kDa protein was synthesized within 6 h after infection. The synthesis of this protein was inhibited by cycloheximide (CH); however, reversal of CH treatment and addition of actinomycin D (ActD) resulted in the synthesis of the 175–180 kDa protein. To determine whether the 175–180 kDa protein seen in the infected cells is encoded by VZV immediate early (IE) gene 62, the predicted open reading frames of VZV genes 61 and 62 were cloned into pGEM transcription vectors. RNA was transcribed from each gene, translated in vitro and immunoprecipitated with a mAb which recognizes a major 175–180 kDa and three minor proteins. The reactivity of the in vitro translation products encoded by gene 62 with this mAb suggested that the 175–180 kDa protein is encoded by VZV IE gene 62.
A natural language interface for the controlling of robot simulations

Abstract The authors portray a natural language interface for use in the simulations of robots and in controlling aids. Emphasis is placed on the clarity and comprehensibility needed due to the complexity and robustness of the software system. The development and implementation of the natural language interface as a front end to the robot-controlling system is discussed.
From biomarkers to a clue of biology: a computation-aided perspective of immune gene expression profiles in human type 1 diabetes

Dysregulated expression of key immune genes may cause breakdown of immunological tolerance and development of autoimmune disorders such as type 1 diabetes (T1D). General immune insufficiencies have also been implicated as a trigger of autoimmunity, due to their potential impact on immune homeostasis. Recent studies have detected evidence of systemic reduction in immune gene expression in long-term diabetic patients but the changes were not present before or at T1D onset. The changes could not be merely correlated with alteration in metabolic parameters. The studies also identified a dynamic expression pattern of several well-known as well as little-studied, immune-related genes during the course of T1D. An intriguing “ratio profile” of immune regulatory genes, such as CTLA-4 and members of the S100 family, versus “baseline” immune genes, such as CD3G, prompted us to further examine immune gene expression relationships for a set of molecules representing T cells, B cells and myeloid cells. No evidence was found to suggest an overall breach of tolerance equilibrium in T1D. Perplexingly, patients with long-term T1D presented a gene expression profile that was surprisingly more coordinated in analyses of “networking” relationship. Computational analyses of the “ratio profiles” or “relationship profiles” of immune gene expression might provide a clue for further studies of immunobiology in human T1D and other autoimmune diseases, as to how the profiles may be related to the pathogenic cause of the disease, to the effect of the diseases on immune homeostasis, or to an immunological process associated with the course of the diseases but is neither a direct cause nor a direct effect of the diseases.
TRF2 Protects Human Telomeres from End-to-End Fusions

The mechanism by which telomeres prevent end-to-end fusion has remained elusive. Here, we show that the human telomeric protein TRF2 plays a key role in the protective activity of telomeres. A dominant negative allele of TRF2 induced end-to-end chromosome fusions detectable in metaphase and anaphase cells. Telomeric DNA persisted at the fusions, demonstrating that TTAGGG repeats per se are not sufficient for telomere integrity. Molecular analysis suggested that the fusions represented ligation of telomeres that have lost their single-stranded G-tails. Therefore, TRF2 may protect chromosome ends by maintaining the correct structure at telomere termini. In addition, expression of mutant forms of TRF2 induced a growth arrest with characteristics of senescence. The results raise the possibility that chromosome end fusions and senescence in primary human cells may be caused by loss by TRF2 from shortened telomeres.
Effect of adrenal demedullation, operative stress, and noise stress on emotional elimination.

(1960). Effect of Adrenal Demedullation, Operative Stress, and Noise Stress on Emotional Elimination. The Journal of Genetic Psychology: Vol. 96, No. 2, pp. 375-382.
Isolation and characterization of nucleic acid-binding antibody fragments from autoimmune mice-derived bacteriophage display libraries

The display of antibody fragments (Fab) on the surface of filamentous bacteriophage and selection of phage that bind to a particular antigen has enabled the isolation of Fab with numerous specificities, including haptens, proteins and viral particles. We have examined the possibility of isolating nucleic acid-binding Fab by constructing a combinatorial library of phage displaying Fab derived from autoimmune (MRL/lpr) mice. Autoimmune mice were chosen because they contain antibodies (Ab) reactive against nuclear components, including DNA, RNA and protein complexes. The library was panned against single-stranded (ss) calf thymus (CT) DNA and the selected Fabs were analyzed further. Characterization of the nucleic acid-binding phage led to the identification of two kinds of Fab with quite different properties. One Fab bound with high affinity a variety of ssDNA molecules, as well as several model RNA substrates. This Fab has been affinity purified to greater than 95% and competition studies revealed a marked preference for binding to poly(dT). The second Fab showed a reduced binding to RNA ligands and a restricted number of ssDNA molecules. Analysis of the deduced amino acid (aa) sequences of the Fab variable (V) regions revealed that the heavy (H) chain V region from the strong nucleic acid-binding Fab was derived from a VH gene that is used recurrently in autoantibodies. This VH domain was most similar to an anti-ssDNA autoimmune monoclonal antibody (mAb) suggesting that antigen-binding specificities present in an autoimmune repertoire may be directly accessed by this approach.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
On the Text of Maximus Tyrius

The present paper consists of emendations in the text of Maximus Tyrius. For convenience in citing the text I shall refer by page and line to Hobein's edition.All the known codices of Maximus, as M. Mutschmann and F. Schulte have shown, most probably (many say certainly) derive from the Parisinus 1962 which belongs to the tenth or the eleventh century. In Hobein's edition and in the present paper the codex is indicated by the letter R.
Capsaicinoid-induced local and systemic antinociception without substance P depletion

Capsaicin and its analog, dihydrocapsaicin, produced chemogenic and thermal antinociception and depletion of substance P from the dorsal spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia of guinea pigs following a single parenteral dose. Time course and distribution studies indicated that capsaicinoid-induced antinociception resulted from neither depletion of substance P nor nonspecific actions of capsaicinoids at dorsal root ganglia. A site of action for capsaicinoid-induced antinociception is peripheral to the dorsal root ganglia and may involve covalent binding of capsaicinoids to free nerve endings of the dermis. Depletion of substance P by capsaicinoids appears to be mediated at a site more central than that which mediates antinociception and may involve alterations in the retrograde axoplasmic transport of neurotrophic factors.
The effect of non-resonant dispersion on short hyperbolic secant laser pulses.

Abstract The effect of non-resonant dispersion on hyperbolic secant laser pulses is summarized by plotting the field intensity vs. a dimensionless variable with a single parameter characterizing the propagation medium.
Drivers of Performance Information Use: Systematic Literature Review and Directions for Future Research

ABSTRACTThe use of performance information in decision-making is a management behavior that has received much attention in public administration research and practice. This article seeks to contribute to a better understanding of this behavior. It conducts a systematic review of 25 recently published empirical studies that have examined drivers of performance information use. Analyzing these studies, which were selected on the basis of their definition of purposeful data use, the article identifies factors that have repeatedly shown a positive impact: measurement system maturity, stakeholder involvement, leadership support, support capacity, innovative culture, and goal clarity. This systematic analysis also uncovers less conclusive variables; findings which are highly relevant for future studies. Based on the review, the article suggests directions for further research endeavors, including theoretical and methodological propositions.
Biological Interactions of Graphene-Family Nanomaterials: An Interdisciplinary Review

Graphene is a single-atom thick, two-dimensional sheet of hexagonally arranged carbon atoms isolated from its three-dimensional parent material, graphite. Related materials include few-layer-graphene (FLG), ultrathin graphite, graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and graphene nanosheets (GNS). This review proposes a systematic nomenclature for this set of Graphene-Family Nanomaterials (GFNs) and discusses specific materials properties relevant for biomolecular and cellular interactions. We discuss several unique modes of interaction between GFNs and nucleic acids, lipid bilayers, and conjugated small molecule drugs and dyes. Some GFNs are produced as dry powders using thermal exfoliation, and in these cases, inhalation is a likely route of human exposure. Some GFNs have aerodynamic sizes that can lead to inhalation and substantial deposition in the human respiratory tract, which may impair lung defense and clearance leading to the formation of granulomas and lung fibrosis. The limited litera...
The organization of the reptilian brainstem reticular formation: A comparative study using Nissl and Golgi techniques

The brainstem reticular formation has been studied in 16 genera representing 11 families of reptiles. Measurements of Nissl-stained reticular neurons revealed that they are distributed along a continuum, ranging in length from 10 micrometer to 95 micrometer. Reticular neurons in crocodilians and snakes tend to be larger than those found in lizards and turtles. Golgi studies revealed that reticular neurons possess long, rectilinear, sparsely branching dendrites. Small reticular neurons (less than 31 micrometers length) possess fusiform or triangular somata which bear two or three primary dendrites. These dendrites have a somewhat simpler ramification pattern when compared with those of large reticular neurons ( greater than 30 micrometers length). Large reticular neurons generally possess perikarya which are triangular or polygonal in shape. The somata of large reticular neurons bear an average of four primary dendrites. The dendrites of reptilian reticular neurons ramify predominantly in the transverse plane and are devoid of spines or excrescences. The dendritic ramification patterns observed in the various repitilian reticular nuclei were correlated with known input and output connections of these nuclei. Nissl and golgi techniques were used to divide the reticular formation into seven nuclei. A nucleus reticularis inferior (RI) is found in the myelencephalon, a reticularis medius (RM) in the caudal two-thirds of the metencephalon, and a reticularis superior (RS) in the rostral metencephalon and caudal mesencephalon. Reticularis inferior can be subdivided into a dorsal portion (RID) and a ventral portion (RIV). All reptilian groups possess RID and RM but RIV is lacking in turtles. Reticularis superior can be subdivided into a large-celled lateral portion (RSL) and a small-celled medial portion (RSM). All reptilian groups possess RSM and RSL, but RSL is quite variable in appearance, being best developed in snakes and crocodilians. The myelencephalic raphe nucleus is also quite variable in its morphology among the different reptilian families. A seventh reticular nucleus, reticularis ventrolateralis (RVL), is found only in snakes and in teiid lizards. It was noted that the reticular formation is simpler (fewer numbers of nuclei) in the representative of older reptilian lineages and more complex (greater numbers of nuclei) in the more modern lineages. Certain reticular nuclei are present or more extensive in those families which have prominent axial musculature.