cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relative Semimajor Axis Uncertainty in High Earth Orbits

S EVERAL proposed missions have identified satellite formation flying in high Earth orbit (HEO) as an enabling technology for increasing the science return while decreasing total mission risk [1,2]. Precision formationflying inHEO requires accurate estimation of the semimajor axis difference between the vehicles for state prediction, formation control, and formation maneuver planning [3– 5]. This Note derives the complete linearized mapping relating relative position and velocity error to semimajor axis uncertainty for HEO formations. The majority of relative navigation filters estimate the state of the secondary vehicle with respect to the primary in Cartesian position and velocity coordinates [6–13]. The uncertainty in the semimajor axis is found by rotating the estimated position and velocity covariance into orbital element space. Carpenter and Schiesser [3] presented the complete linearized relationship between absolute position and velocity uncertainty and semimajor axis error; however, the form of their result is not particularly intuitive. Carpenter and Alfriend [4] used a similar method to develop a simplified expression for the semimajor axis uncertainty that assumes the radial position and velocity and intrack velocity are the primary contributions. However, this assumption is not justified for eccentric orbits. The generalized relationship between relative position and velocity uncertainty and semimajor axis uncertainty is derived here explicitly. The resulting equation shows that the semimajor axis error is dependent on all of the coplanar position and velocity uncertainties in highly eccentric orbits. The coordinate frames that form the foundation of this research are described in Sec. II. The generalized relationship between position and velocity error and semimajor axis uncertainty is derived in Sec. III, and the conclusions are summarized in Sec. IV.
Oxidation state, local structure, and ab-initio XAFS modeling of chromium in contaminated soils and model compounds

We have used XAFS spectroscopy, combined with the ab-initio multiple scattering code FEFF 7, to model the structures of Cr compounds and Cr sorption complexes and precipitated phases on soils impacted by industrial Cr effluent. We have had success in ab-initio modeling of the near-edge structure of Cr model compounds, accurately simulating the Cr pre-edge and edge fine structure which are due to bound-state transitions and multiple scattering among the absorber Cr and its nearest shell of oxygen atoms. We have calibrated the pre-edge feature, a Is to 3d electronic transition, and applied this to determining Cr(VI)/Cr(III) ratios in natural, Cr-contaminated soils. The pre-edge feature is particularly useful in following the electron transfer reaction between Cr(VI) and Fe(II) on oxide surfaces such as Fe 3 O 4 (magnetite) which, as we have seen in both lab and field studies, results in the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III).
Disciplinary careers' of mentally retarded inmates

This article examines the disciplinary "careers" of inmates who were identified on IQ tests as mentally retarded, borderline intellectual functioning, and intellectually normal. The sample is drawn from a cohort of inmates released from the New York State correctional system. Inmates' disciplinary careers were classified into adjustment patterns. Findings suggest that throughout most of incarceration, the rate of disciplinary involvement of mentally retarded inmates is not significantly higher than that of their non-retarded peers. Further, mentally retarded inmatcs are not significantly over-represented in disruptive adjustment patterns compared to their non-retarded peers. The early starter pattern (high disciplinary rates in the first stage and low rates in the final two stages) is the most common pattern displayed by disruptive inmates. Chi square statistics indicate that there is no statistically significant relationship between IQ and adjustment patterns. Findings suggest the importance of early int...
The impacts of an auto weight limitation on energy, resources, and the economy

The impacts of a hypothetical auto weight limitation on energy conservation, resources usage, pollutant emission and the economy are quantitatively estimated by a linear input-output model and a linear estimation method. These estimations are the first step toward a multiple criteria formulation for understanding and solving complex energy problems.
The boxy nasal tip, the ball tip, and alar cartilage malposition: variations on a theme--a study in 200 consecutive primary and secondary rhinoplasty patients.

BACKGROUND: Although "boxy" and "ball" nasal tips have received considerable attention in the rhinoplasty literature, their association with cephalic rotation of the alar cartilage lateral crura ("malposition") has not been emphasized. The thesis of this article is that most boxy and ball tips are not unique entities but rather constitute anatomical variants of alar cartilage malposition. METHODS: Data were generated from a review of 100 consecutive primary and 100 consecutive secondary rhinoplasty patients on whom the author had operated before February of 1999. RESULTS: The majority of the patients (68 percent of primary rhinoplasty patients and 87 percent of secondary patients) studied had alar cartilage malposition (axes toward the medial rather than the lateral canthi) (p < 0.001). Orthotopic lateral crura were significantly more common than malpositioned lateral crura among primary patients (p < 0.001); conversely, the frequency of malpositioned crura was significantly higher in secondary patients than in primary patients (p < 0.001). Most of the primary and secondary patients with malposition (74 percent and 72 percent, respectively) had boxy or ball tips. Among patients with alar cartilage malposition, ball tips were most common (31 percent of primary patients and 36 percent of secondary patients); boxy tips were second-most common (19 percent of primary patients and 27 percent of secondary patients); the remaining patients had lateral crura that were considered to be "flat" (18 percent and 24 percent, respectively). The most common configuration among primary patients was the malpositioned boxy or ball tip with inadequate projection (54 percent). All primary and secondary rhinoplasty patients with alar cartilage malposition, regardless of tip lobular configuration, had incompetence at their external nasal valves; valvular reconstruction at least doubled the geometric mean nasal airflow in most patients. In primary patients, treatment for each variant was identical: lateral crural resection, crushing, and replacement along the alar rim. Some secondary patients also required composite grafts. CONCLUSIONS: The morphological and functional results of this study indicate that the surgeon seeing a patient with a boxy or ball tip can predict that the patient has seven times the likelihood of having malpositioned, rather than orthotopic, lateral crura. The importance of most boxy and ball tips is therefore not only the lobular deformity itself but also the functional deficit associated with it.
A hyper-viscoelastic constitutive model for polyurea

This letter presents a new constitutive model for polyurea by superposing the hyperelastic and viscoelastic behaviors of polyurea. The Ogden model is used for the hyperelastic part and its parameters are determined from curve fitting of quasi-static test data. A nonlinear viscoelastic model is employed for describing the viscoelastic behavior and its relaxation time is obtained based on the test data of shear relaxation modulus. A special form of Zapas kernel for the damping function is found to be very effective to capture the viscoelastic behavior of polyurea subjected to wide ranges of strain rate. Both the versatility and accuracy of the model are examined via virtual testing.
Single-trait functional indices outperform multi-trait indices in linking environmental gradients and ecosystem services in a complex landscape

Summary Functional traits can be used to describe the composition of communities through indices that seek to explain the factors that drive community assembly, biotic effects on ecosystem processes or both. Appropriately representing functional composition is therefore essential for predicting the consequences of environmental context and management actions for the provisioning of multiple ecosystem services (ESs) in heterogeneous landscapes. Functional indices can be constructed from single or multiple traits; however, it is not clear how they differ in information content or ability to predict biodiversity – ecosystem function relationships in complex landscapes. Here, we compare the utility of analogous single- and multi-trait indices in linking environmental variation and functional composition to ESs in a heterogeneous landscape, relating functional indices based on three plant traits [height, relative growth rate and root density (RD)] to variation in the physical environment and to two ESs (forage production and soil carbon) and their net ES level. Two orthogonal gradients, elevation and soil bulk density (BD), explained significant variation in several dimensions of functional composition comprised of single traits. These traits in turn significantly predicted variation in ESs and their net values. Only one index measured with multiple traits (functional richness) varied with the physical environment, while none predicted variation in ES or net ES levels. One ES, soil carbon, increased with the community-average value of RD, while the other, forage production, was related to the range and community-average value of height. In turn, average RD increased with soil BD while the average and range of height declined with elevation. Due to these environmental patterns, soil carbon and forage production did not covary strongly, leading to moderate net ES levels across the landscape. Synthesis: Single-trait indices of functional composition best linked variation in environmental gradients with productivity and soil carbon. Because the environment–trait functioning relationships were independent of one another, the ESs were independently distributed across the landscape, providing little evidence of synergies or trade-offs. Single- and multi-trait indices contained unique information about functional composition of these communities, and both are likely to have a place in predicting variation in ESs under different scenarios.
Availability Characteristics of an Unbalanced Buffered Series Production System With Repair Priority

Abstract The steady state availability and average production rate of a single-buffer series system are obtained for a production system whose machines do not index on a common cycle and have the ability to operate at different rates. In the model which is formulated, the machines preceding the buffer are represented as a single subsystem, the input device, and the machines following the buffer are represented as a single subsystem, the output device. Simultaneous repairs are not possible and so repair priority is given to that device, input or output, with the slowest production rate. Tractable results are obtained for systems having exponential uptimes and arbitrary downtimes. These results are of use in the design of new production systems or the modification of existing ones.
MO‐G‐137‐04: Using Molecular Dynamics Simulation Algorithm to Overcome the Local Minima of Gradient Methods in IMPT Treatment Plan Optimization

Purpose: The gradient optimization methods such as LBFGS are sensitive to starting conditions and can be trapped in local minima. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulation algorithm, a powerful computational technique used in material science, has the potential to overcome the local minima problem. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether MD algorithm can get out of the local minima, in which LBFGS will be trapped for the optimization problem in intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT). Methods: A prostate cancer patient was selected for this study. Three different starting conditions was used to optimize the IMPT plans: (a) Forward wedge (FW), all beamlet weights are set to the same weight; (b) SOBP, beamlets weights are arranged to deliver a flat dose on the target; (c) Inverse wedge (IW), the weights are set to distal tracking like resulting very low dose on Femoral Heads. The dose‐based objective function, which only optimizes the uniformity of PTV dose, was used for both LBFGS and MD algorithms. Results: MD converged to the objective function value (OFV) of 3.46 regardless of different initial conditions. LBFGS converged to 3.68, 3.72 and 1082.6 starting with initial conditions FW, SOBP and IW, respectively. For PTV dose coverage, both MD and LBFGS achieved to similar results from FW and SOBP initial conditions. However, using IW initial condition, LBFGS was trapped into a local minimum reflected by a higher OFV and worse PTV coverage (D99=68.5 Gy) while MD converged to a lower OFV and better PTV coverage (D99=75.6 Gy). Conclusion: For the first time, we demonstrated that MD algorithm could be used in radiation therapy planning optimization to overcome the local minima problem which is a major shortcoming of gradient based algorithm widely adopted in radiation therapy optimization problem.
The cyclophilin homolog ninaA is a tissue-specific integral membrane protein required for the proper synthesis of a subset of Drosophila rhodopsins.

Abstract Mutations in the Drosophila ninaA gene cause dramatic reductions in rhodopsin levels, leading to Impaired visual function. The ninaA protein is a homolog of peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerases. We find that ninaA is unique among this family of proteins in that it is an integral membrane protein, and it is expressed in a cell type-specific manner. We have used transgenic animals misexpressing different rhodopsins in the major class of photoreceptor cells to demonstrate that ninaA is required for normal function by two homologous rhodopsins, but not by a less conserved member of the Drosophila rhodopsin gene family. This demonstrates in vivo substrate specificity in a cyclophilin-like molecule. We also show that vertebrate retina contains a ninaA-related protein and that ninaA is a member of a gene family in Drosophila. These data offer insights into the in vivo role of this important family of proteins.
Pre- and perinatal risk and physical abuse

Abstract Ecological models and research suggest that abnormal perinatal events and handicapping conditions predispose children to later physical abuse. However, results of prospective studies do not suggest that low birth weight, prematurity or perinatal problems are risk factors. A number of studies have compared abused children with siblings, thus controlling for parental factors, but the results are inconclusive. This article reviews the literature and presents the results of a retrospective study of relevant risk factors using both between and within family methods. Subjects were 87 abusive and 87 control families matched for social class, race, and child age and gender. Within the abuse group, 54 children had siblings for whom comparative data were available. Comparisons were made for 38 variables. Prenatal measures included prenatal care, complications, and maternal hospitalizations and physical problems. There were no significant differences between index children and their siblings. The only diffe...
Synthesis of high-purity α- and β-PbO and possible applications to synthesis and processing of other lead oxide materials

Litharge, the red tetragonal form of lead oxide α-PbO and massicot, the yellow orthorhombic form β-PbO, are synthesized from lead(II) salts in aqueous media at elevated temperatures. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the size, morphology, and crystallographic structural forms of the products. The role of impurities in the experimental synthesis of the materials and microstructural variations in the final products are described. The implications of these observations regarding the synthesis of different conducting lead oxides and other related materials are discussed.
LUTEINIZING HORMONE CONCENTRATIONS IN ANESTROUS EWES ADMINISTERED VARIOUS ESTROGENS

Abstract Twenty four anestrous ewes were evenly assigned to one of six groups and administered either sesame oil, estradiol-17β, estradiol-17α, estrone, estradiol benzoate or estradiol valerate. All estrogen treated ewes received 50 μg of the respective estrogen. Blood plasma was collected for 28 hours post-treatment and quantified for luteinizing hormone (LH) by radioimmunoassay. An estrogen induced LH surge was detected in at least three of the four ewes administered either estradiol-17β, estrone, estradiol benzoate or estradiol valerate whereas only one of the four estradiol-17α treated ewes and none of the ewes administered sesame oil had an LH surge. The interval from treatment to peak LH was similar for estradiol-17β (17.3±2.7 hours), estrone (18.5±1.0 hours) and estradiol benzoate (19.0±0.6 hours) treated ewes but delayed 7 to 9 hours for ewes administered estradiol valerate (26.0±1.2 hours).
Nonurban aerosol composition near Beijing, China

Abstract The urban aerosol plume of Beijing has been sampled as a function of particle size and time at a site 110 km NE of the city, 9–16 March 1980, during the season for space heating by coal combustion. A fine particle mode, contained mostly in the 0.5–2 μm aerodynamic diameter range, could be distinguished from a coarse mode of dust having terrestial composition by reference to the size distribution of Ca. Elemental composition determined by PIXE analysis for 17 elements, including S and heavy metals, indicates fine mode concentrations higher than background aerosol but with a similarity to cleaner air with respect to both relative elemental abundances and elemental particle size distributions. The results indicate that elements contained in aged coal combustion aerosol occur mainly in 0.5–2 μMAD particles, not smaller, and the aerosol is not substantially different from background aerosol except in overall concentrations. This result may simplify the prediction of the impact of coal combustion on air quality. The results also hint that the background aerosol in more remote continental areas may also be combustion derived.
Calibration of Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Using Standard Additions with Dried Solution Aerosols

A standard additions method for calibrating the response of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) is assessed. Desolvated particles from an ultrasonic nebulizer and particles from an ablation cell are introduced simultaneously to a twin quadrupole ICPMS. Matrix-matched or pelletized solid standards are not required, and the solution standards are easily prepared. The transport of sample particles from the LA cell and of aerosol particles from the solution nebulizer must be measured. The relative accuracy for the analysis of steel reference materials is a few percent, which is comparable to that obtained with matched solid standards.
A New Dimension in the Study of Human Functional Joint Instability

Functional joint instability is common after joint soft tissue injuries. We present in this report our pilot finding in a study of functional ankle instability. Although past studies have suggested multiple pathological factors for functional ankle instability, none of those factors has been confirmed in the past studies. More importantly, no known factor can provide an explanation for an ankle giving way phenomenon which is a key element in defining a functional ankle instability. In this pilot study, we tested five subjects with functional ankle instability using a dynamic ankle stretching device combined with nociceptive electrical stimulation. Three out of five subjects showed a drastic reaction in which they totally gave up their control of upright standing after their affected ankles were under the combined ankle stretch and nociceptive stimuli. Such drastic reaction was not observed in the same ankles under only the ankle stretch. There was no such drastic reaction in the unaffected ankle under either testing condition. This pilot finding indicates a possibility of a hyper-reactivity to unloading reaction in the ankles with functional ankle instability
Expected Sums of General Parking Functions

A (u 1, u 2, . . . )-parking function of length n is a sequence (x 1, x 2, . . . , x n) whose order statistics (the sequence (x (1), x (2), . . . , x (n)) obtained by rearranging the original sequence in non-decreasing order) satisfy x (i)≤ u (i). The Goncarov polynomials g n (x; a 0, a 1, . . . , a n-1) are polynomials biorthogonal to the linear functionals e(a i ) D i , where e(a) is evaluation at a and D is differentiation. In this paper, we give explicit formulas for the first and second moments of sums of u-parking functions using Goncarov polynomials by solving a linear recursion based on a decomposition of the set of sequences of positive integers. We also give a combinatorial proof of one of the formulas for the expected sum. We specialize these formulas to the classical case when u i =a+ (i-1)b and obtain, by transformations with Abel identities, different but equivalent formulas for expected sums. These formulas are used to verify the classical case of the conjecture that the expected sums are increasing functions of the gaps u i+1 - u i . Finally, we give analogues of our results for real-valued parking functions.
Abstract 850: Sirt1-mediated suppression of cell death in breast cancer.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Several lines of evidence suggest that protein lysine acetylation pathways are deregulated in cancer ([1][1]). Moreover, deacetylase inhibitors are emerging as important anti-tumor therapeutics, suggesting that the forced reprogramming of protein-lysine acetylation is toxic to tumor cells. In this study we show that Sirt1, an NAD+-dependent Sirtuin deacetylase that promotes cancer cell survival, is aberrantly mislocalized to the cytoplasm of breast tumor cells. Moreover, the depletion of cytosolic Sirt1 by siRNA sensitizes breast tumor cells to paclitaxel-induced death. Previously, we developed a biotin-switch proteomics approach to identify cytosolic Sirt1 substrates ([2][2]). This approach yielded a variety of substrates with roles in metabolism, survival, and oxidative stress signaling. Our current work focuses on three of the proteins identified as Sirt1 substrates: SOD1, DJ-1, and 14-3-3z. SOD1 and DJ-1 both suppress oxidative stress-induced death, and high levels of 14-3-3z expression suppress chemotherapy-induced apoptosis and correlate with negative patient outcomes in breast cancer. Our preliminary results suggest that acetylation of DJ-1 and SOD1 suppress their anti-oxidant functions, while acetylation of 14-3-3z disrupts its binding to pro-survival proteins. Taken together, our data support a model in which cytosolic Sirt1 activates multiple pathways that work together to promote tumor cell survival. Citation Format: Jeffrey B. Mortenson, Vajira K. Weerasekara, Josh Andersen. Sirt1-mediated suppression of cell death in breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 850. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-850 [1]: #ref-1 [2]: #ref-2
Unilateral hearing loss in children

Recent reports suggest that early onset, severe unilateral sensorineural hearing loss (USNHL) in children may be associated with significant deficits in auditory and psycholinguistic skills and school performance. This report reviews a consecutive series of 324 children and adolescents (202 males, 122 females) with documented USNHL evaluated at the Boys Town National Research Hospital. The left ear was affected in 168 (52%) and the right ear in 156 (48%). Based on speech frequency threshold averages (i.e., 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz), the losses were classified by severity as follows: borderline, 43 (13%); mild, 51 (16%); moderate, 40 (12%); severe, 19 (6%); profound, 31 (10%), and anacusic, 50 (15%). The remaining 90 children (28%) had high frequency losses (i.e, above 2000 Hz). The mean and median age of diagnosis were 8.78 years and 7.75 years. Temporal bone imaging studies, auditory brainstem responses (ABRs), and vestibular evaluations were performed on selected cases. Etiology was uncertain in 34.8% of cases, while hereditary factors (12.6%), head trauma (10.8%), and perinatal risk factors (10.7%) were the most commonly identified etiologies. Thirty-one percent of the children had scholastic or behavioral problems in school. A concerted effort aimed at early identification and intervention in cases of USNHL is warranted.
K-Means Based Spatial Aggregation for Hyperspectral Compression

We investigate a method to improve the compression ratio for hyperspectral data compression by use of a pre-processing step that gathers together correlated pixels before the transform is applied in a KLT-JPEG2000 based compression. Using a k-means clustering algorithm, the pixels can be grouped together before the application of the transform. Some similar methods have been studied, but k-means has been avoided due to its computational complexity. We call our proposed method SAMLC (Spatially Aggregated Multilevel Clustering). The simulation results show that in the case of lossy modes of compression, the proposed algorithm outperforms KLT+JPEG2000 and basic multilevel clustering for Hyperion imagery and some AVIRIS imagery. In lossless mode, Hyperion, AVIRIS, and AIRS data was tested but the proposed algorithm performed nearly the same as the competing algorithms across the 10 images tested. Overall, the proposed SAMLC algorithm is designed for lossy-to-lossless compression and performed best in lossy mode with Hyperion data.
Self-consistent diagrammatics for a correlated superconductor: contrasting two and three dimensions

We use self-consistent diagrammatics to contrast pairing fluctuations in the Attractive Hubbard Model in two and three dimensions. Specifically, we use the self-consistent T-matrix approximation and show that, quite remarkably, this method yields results that are consistent with the exact 2D-XY and 3D-XY critical scaling. We find that dimensionality alone increases the ratio of the mean-field to actual transition temperatures more than 4-fold in 2D, and that the scaling regimes coincide with the normal state pseudogap regime in both 2D and 3D. Together this suggests that the decreasing effective dimensionality when cuprates are underdoped may account for the increasing size of the pseudogap regime.
An embrittlement rate effect deduced from HFIR that may impact LWR vessel support life expectancy

Abstract Recent results from the High-Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) pressure-vessel-material surveillance program indicate that embrittlement rates of the several ferritic carbon steels are substantially greater than were anticipated. The apparent reason is that the fast neutron flux in the HFIR vessel is much less than that in materials testing reactors (factor of ∼10 −4 ); that is, there is a fluence-rate effect. It was soon realized that these results may significantly impact the life expectancy for supports of some light-water reactor (LWR) vessels because the temperature and fast-neutron fluxes associated with supports are about the same as for the HFIR vessel. A preliminary evaluation of LWR supports was conducted by estimating the increases in the nil-ductility transition temperatures (NDTT) of supports in several LWR plants. An analysis based on the HFIR data predicts much higher ΔNDTTs than one based on materials-testing-reactor data. This result, combined with assumptions regarding loading conditions and flaws, provides a basis for concerns about support integrity.
Silk fibroin membranes from solvent-crystallized silk fibroin/gelatin blends: Effects of blend and solvent composition

Abstract Protein membranes have been prepared by mixing gelatin (G) with Bombyx mori silk fibroin (SF) and using aqueous methanol (MeOH) to induce SF crystallization. Amorphous blends of these polymers appear quasi-homogeneous, as discerned from visual observation, electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Upon subsequent exposure to aqueous MeOH, SF undergoes a conformational change from random-coil to β-sheet. This transformation occurs in pure SF, as well as in each of the G/SF blends, as discerned from FTIR spectroscopy and thermal calorimetry. The influence of MeOH-induced SF crystallization on structure and property development has been measured as functions of blend and solvent composition. By preserving a support scaffold above the G helix-to-coil transition temperature, the formation of crystalline SF networks in G/SF blends can be used to stabilize G-based hydrogels or generate SF membranes for biomaterial, pharmaceutical and gas-separation purposes. The present study not only examines the properties of G/SF blends before and after SF crystallization, but also establishes the foundation for future research into thermally-responsive G/SF bioconjugates.
Two mRNAs that differ by two nontemplated nucleotides encode the amino coterminal proteins P and V of the paramyxovirus SV5

Summary The "P≓ gene of the paramyxovirus SV5 encodes two known proteins, P (M r ≈ 44,000) and V (M r ≈ 24,000). The complete nucleotide sequence of the "P≓ gene has been obtained and is found to contain two open reading frames, neither of which is large enough to encode the P protein. We have shown that the P and V proteins are translated from two mRNAs that differ by the presence of two nontemplated G residues in the P mRNA. These two additional nucleotides convert the two open reading frames to one of 392 amino acids. The P and V proteins are amino coterminal and have 164 amino acids in common. The unique C terminus of V consists of a cysteine-rich region that resembles a cysteine-rich metal binding domain. An open reading frame that contains this cysteine-rich region exists in all other paramyxovirus "P≓ gene sequences examined, which suggests that it may have important biological significance.
Thermoelectric cooled, purge-and-trap device for enhancing the utility of fiber optic VOC sensors

A thermoelectric cooled, purge-and-trap device (TEC) has been developed to enhance the utility of fiber optic VOC sensors. This simple device consists of a thin copper radiator sandwiched between two thermoelectric coolers. Two water-cooled, copper heat sinks are used to maintain the hot side surfaces of the thermoelectric coolers at 5 degrees C, allowing internal surface temperatures of the radiator to be controlled between 5 degrees C to -43 degrees C. This paper describes the use of the TEC with a reversible, fiber optic, carbon tetrachloride sensor. The sensor by itself has a detection limit of around 1,000 ppmv carbon tetrachloride in nitrogen. When the sensor is used with the TEC, vapor phase concentrations down to 100 ppmv can be measured.
Three-dimensional Structure-from-motion Selectivity in the Anterior Superior Temporal Polysensory Area, STPa, of the Behaving Monkey

Humanandnon-humanprimatesareabletoperceivethree-dimensional structure from motion displays. Three-dimensional structure-frommotion(object-motion)displayswereusedtotestthehypothesisthat neurons in the anterior division of the superior temporal polysensory area(STPa)ofmonkeyscanselectivelyrespondtothree-dimensional structure-from-motion. Monkeys performed a reaction time task that requiredthedetectionofachangeinthefractionofstructureinthreedimensional transparent sphere displays. Neurons were able to distinguishstructuredandunstructuredthree-dimensionalopticflow. Thesecellscoulddifferentiatethechangeinstructure-from-motionat stimuluspresentationandwhentheanimalwasdetectingtheamount ofstructureinthedisplay.Someoftheseneuronswerealsotunedfor characteristics of the sphere stimuli. Cells were also tested with navigational motion and many were found to respond both to threedimensional structure-from-motion and navigational motion. These results suggest that STPa neurons represent specific aspects of three-dimensional surface structure and that neurons within STPa contribute to the perception of three-dimensional structure-frommotion.
The influence of the RGD peptide motif and its contextual presentation in PEG gels on human mesenchymal stem cell viability

An investigation was undertaken into the method of delivery of RGD peptide motifs to adult human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) encapsulated in poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel systems. Previous studies have shown that the viability of hMSCs encapsulated in bio-inert hydrogels, such as PEG-based gels, decreases over time. hMSCs are an adhesive-dependent cell type, requiring attachment sites to maintain their survival and function. The incorporation of tethered RGD peptide motifs was found to sustain a high level of hMSC survival in PEG gels. However, previous reports are largely limited to pendantly tethered RGD in gels; therefore, further investigation into hMSCs' affinity for and response to the contextual presentation of RGD was studied using varying methods of RGD attachment to the PEG gel, as well as delivery of soluble RGD peptides. Studies with encapsulated hMSCs showed that the constrained RGD peptide, bound via two links to the PEG gel, promoted approximately 60% cell survival, while tethering the RGD as a pendant group, bound via a single link to the PEG gel, promoted approximately 80% cell survival. Interestingly, incorporating a glycine spacer arm to the RGD pendant tether further enhanced survival to approximately 88%. Investigations with solubly delivered peptides resulted in a dramatic decrease in cell viability with time, eventually leading to survival that was similar to that of unmodified PEG gels. Integrin staining for alphavbeta3 and alpha4, as well as focal adhesion staining, correlates to the trends in hMSC survival for covalently-bound RGD motifs and a loss of viability for the solubly delivered peptide systems.
Facilitation of Somatic Calcium Channels Can Evoke Prolonged Tail Currents in Rat Hypoglossal Motoneurons

Voltage-dependent persistent inward currents (PICs) make an important contribution to the input-output properties of alpha motoneurons. PICs are thought to be mediated by membrane channels located ...
Children between the age of 5 and 11: what “don’t know” answers tell us

Children are increasingly seen as competent informants on their activities, views and needs. Different abilities of children can lead to inadequate (formally or regarding the content) answers or to the misunderstanding of proceedings during an interview process. One inadequate or at least unintended (on the part of the researcher) response is a “don’t know” answer (DK). To study when and why DK answers occur, a possible cause for them in the cognitive process and their relation to age, we analysed the DK answers given in qualitative semi-structured interviews with children aged 5–11, conducted face-to-face and on the telephone. Each of 56 children was interviewed twice, once face-to-face and once via telephone. The results show that age had an effect on DK responses due to the cognitive state of the respondent and their communicative intent, but there was no difference in the number of DKs due to problems with the research instrument or due to an adequacy judgement in respect of respondent age.
Phase diagram for polystyrene/poly(vinylmethyl ether) blends by 13C-NMR

The composition of each phase separated domain, thus the phase diagram, has been determined by 13C NMR methods for thermally phase separated polystyrene (PS)/poly(vinylmethyl ether) (PVME) blends. Even in compatible PS/PVME blend T 1ϱ H at −5°C, determined indirectly via 13C intensities show microheterogeneity at an estimated 20 A level if the PVME content is greater than 50%.
Norepinephrine modulates excitability of neonatal rat optic nerves through calcium-mediated mechanisms

Abstract We report that norepinephrine markedly increases excitability of neonatal rat optic nerves. To investigate the mechanisms of the norepinephrine-induced excitability increase, we studied isolated optic nerves from 42 neonatal ( three months old) Long-Evan's hooded rats. Norepinephrine (10 −6 , 10 −5 and 10 −4 M) rapidly and reversibly increased the amplitudes (mean ± S.D.: 3.5 ± 1.7%, 12.1 ± 2.8% and 35.6 ± 8.4%) of compound action potentials elicited by submaximal stimulation of neonatal optic nerves. The beta-1 adrenoceptor antagonist atenolol (10 −5 M) blocked the norepinephrine-induced increase in excitability but the alpha antagonist phentolamine (10 −5 M) did not. The beta agonist isoproterenol (10 −5 and 10 −4 M) increased response amplitudes (8.7 ± 4.1% and 25.8 ± 4.6%) but the alpha-1 agonist and methoxamine and alpha-2 agonist clonidine did not. The beta antagonist propranolol blocked the isoproterenol effect. Replacing Ca 2+ with Mg 2+ or adding 0.8 mM of Cd 2+ reversibly blocked the norepinephrine effects. Extracellular K + concentrations did not change in optic nerves during norepinephrine application. Blockade of K + channels with apamin (10 −6 M) or tetraethylammonium (10 −3 M) did not prevent the excitatory effects of norepinephrine. Adult rat optic nerves were insensitive to both norepinephrine (10 −4 M) and isoproterenol (10 −4 M). Our results indicate that norepinephrine increases neonatal optic axonal excitability through Ca 2+ -dependent mechanisms. The data suggest that the adrenoceptors are situated on the axons, that the excitability changes are not due to changes in extracellular K + concentration or K + channels sensitive to apamin or tetraethylammonium. The sensitivity of rat optic nerves to norepinephrine declined with age. Axonal adrenoceptors may play a role in optic axonal development and injury.
High-dose vaginal misoprostol versus concentrated oxytocin plus low-dose vaginal misoprostol for midtrimester labor induction: a randomized trial.

Objective This study was undertaken to compare the efficacy and side effects of a high-dose vaginal misoprostol regimen to concentrated intravenous oxytocin plus low-dose vaginal misoprostol for midtrimester labor induction. Study design Women at 14 to 24 weeks, with obstetric or fetal indications for delivery and no prior cesarean, were randomly assigned to receive either vaginal misoprostol 600 μg × 1, then 400 μg every 4 hours × 5 (group 1) or escalating dose-concentrated oxytocin infusions (277-1667 mU/min) plus vaginal misoprostol 400 μg × 1, then 200 μg every 6 hours × 2, then 100 μg × 1 (group 2). Analysis was by intent to treat. Primary outcomes were live birth rate and induction-to-delivery interval. Results The intended sample size was 70 women per group; however, the trial was terminated at the initial interim analysis because of a highly significant difference in 1 of the primary study outcomes. Twenty women were assigned to group 1 and 18 were assigned to group 2. Median induction-to-delivery interval was significantly shorter in group 1 (12 hours, range 4-44 hours) versus group 2 (18 hours, range 7-36 hours; P =.01). Induction success rate at 12 hours was significantly higher in group 1 (60%) compared with group 2 (22%, P =.02). No significant difference was noted in the live birth rate between groups 1 and 2 (13%, 0%, P =.16). The incidence of retained placenta requiring curettage, chorioamnionitis, intrapartum fever, nausea, emesis, and diarrhea were similar between both groups. Conclusion Compared with concentrated oxytocin plus low-dose vaginal misoprostol, high-dose vaginal misoprostol significantly shortens midtrimester labor inductions.
Continuous line drawings via the traveling salesman problem

We describe how to use the traveling salesman problem to create continuous line drawings of target pictures.
LAST-GLACIAL-MAXIMUM NORTH ATLANTIC DEEP WATER ON, OFF OR SOMEWHERE IN-BETWEEN?

Various papers have been published during the past decade concerning Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) North Atlantic Deep Water (NADW) flow. Using somewhat different methods, they have produced somewhat contradictory contradictory results. This review considers both apparent and real conflicts concerning the data and their interpretation, and attempts to resolve them. Despite the earlier (contradictory) interpretations, currently there is a widespread belief that nutrient concentrations in deep cores from the North Atlantic increased during glacial times and that concentrations in the upper-deep and intermediate waters decreased at least slightly. It is also clear that further north in the basin (particularly at upper-deep and intermediate depths), nutrient concentrations were as low or perhaps even lower than those seen today. Data from the Caribbean Sea, ventilated by intermediate waters through an approximately 1800 m sill, indicate that lower nutrient levels were also found at intermediate depths in the North and Tropical Atlantic; this data is supported by continental margin data. The recontoured $\delta ^{13}$ C data of Duplessy et al. (Paleoceanography 3, 343-360 (1988) remain a valid expression of the broadscale LGM Atlantic nutrient distribution. Data from the South Atlantic has been the most contradictory to date, but recent $\delta ^{13}$ C evidence from a low-productivity South Atlantic site supports Cd data indicating a relative stability in the nutrient chemistry of waters that are presently influenced by low-nutrient NADW. Sedimentary $^{231}$ Pa/ $^{230}$ Th data appear to require the continued export of Atlantic-generated $^{231}$ Pa from the Atlantic into the Southern Ocean. Finally, radiocarbon evidence from paired planktonic/benthic foraminifera indicates that the ventilation time of the North Atlantic remained low and that the ventilation time of the entire ocean did not change much beyond the uncertainty of the $^{14}$ C data. Taken together, this evidence suggests that the NADW became `Glacial North Atlantic Deep/Intermediate Water' (GNAIDW) during glacial times, with perhaps a greater flux through intermediate waters than currently combined with a lesser flux through deeper waters. Although one cannot say much with confidence about the total GNAIDW flux, the data are consistent with a persistent but perhaps somewhat diminished role for NADW in the global thermohaline circulation during glacial times. A review of recent evidence concerning the response of the deep North Atlantic during the Younger Dryas concludes that there is no inconsistency between the new evidence and the occurence of a Younger Dryas NADW event in the deep western North Atlantic.
Sinusoidal Variation of a Parameter in a Simple Series Circuit

A large amount of work has been done by others in analyzing the equivalent of a varying-parameter circuit on the assumption that L or C varies as 1/(1+k cos ω s t). In this paper a brief comparison of these results is made with results obtained on the apparently more direct assumption that L or C varies as (1+k cos ω s t) with k sufficiently large for the two cases to yield appreciably different results. An indication of how previous analyses can be applied to the present case, and some data concerning that case are given.
Modulation of types I and II acute phase reactants with insulin-like growth factor-1/binding protein-3 complex in severely burned children.

ObjectiveTo determine whether 0.5 mg/kg insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1/binding protein (IGFBP)-3, given intravenously, effectively alters the acute phase response in severely burned children.DesignLongitudinal trial with each patient serving as their own control.SettingUniversity-affiliated pedi
Theoretical study of R1ρ rotating-frame and R2 free-precession relaxation in the presence of n-site chemical exchange

The n-site Bloch-McConnell equations describe the evolution of nuclear spin magnetization in the laboratory or rotating frames of reference for molecules subject to chemical or conformational interconversions between n species with distinct NMR chemical shifts. Perturbation theory is used to approximate the largest eigenvalue of the Bloch-McConnell equations and obtain analytical expressions for the rotating-frame relaxation rate constant and for the laboratory frame resonance frequency and transverse relaxation rate constant. The perturbation treatment is valid whenever the population of one site is dominant. The new results are generally applicable to investigations of kinetic processes by NMR spectroscopy.
Henoch-Schönlein purpura

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is a multisystem immunoglobulin A-mediated vasculitis with a self-limited course affecting the skin, joints, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. HSP occurs most often in children between the ages of 3 and 10 years, and presents classically with a unique distribution of the rash to the lower extremities and the buttocks area. For this reason, a skin biopsy in children is rarely necessary for diagnosis. However, in the very young age children and adults, the rash is not classically distributed, and therefore a skin biopsy is often needed. Although there are currently no prospective controlled studies on the treatment of the different manifestations of HSP, there are several retrospectively designed studies and other physicians’ personal experiences supporting the use of steroids in patients with severe gastrointestinal, severe renal, central nervous system, and testicular involvements. Severe renal and central nervous system disease may lead to life-threatening conditions, and immunosuppressive agents and plasmapheresis may be needed. The overall prognosis in HSP is excellent, but the long-term morbidity depends on the renal and neurologic involvement. One third to one half of these patients will have one or more recurrences of symptoms, usually within 6 weeks, but may occur as late as 3 to 7 years later.
Decoupled: successful planning policies in countries that have reduced per capita greenhouse gas emissions with continued economic growth

This paper highlights planning interventions in countries that have implemented successful greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction policies while continuing to increase per capita GDP. Screening and reviewing all countries in the world, with this research I have identified nine countries that have steadily decoupled per capita carbon emissions from GDP. GHG emission profiles and pertinent policies from national case studies demonstrate the built environment sectors most responsive (waste, residential, land-use change, and forestry) and least responsive (transportation) to GHG reduction policies without import substitution. A comparison amongst case-study countries and theoretical models indicates the best opportunities for targeting GHG reductions.
Translational research in OCD: circuitry and mechanisms.

Although the pathophysiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) remains unknown, converging lines of evidence point to abnormalities in the orbital (OFC), ventromedial (vmPFC-subgenual cingulate and medial OFC), and dorsal anterior cingulate (dACC) cortical-basal ganglia circuits. OCD-linked patterns of activity in these PFC regions are accentuated during provocation of symptoms and can predict treatment response; they tend to normalize following successful treatment (Greenberg et al, 2010). Moreover, neurosurgical interventions (lesions or deep brain stimulation-DBS) within the ventral internal capsule (VC), ventral striatum (VS), or dACC (treatments for intractable OCD) all act on subcomponents of the vmPFC/OFC/dACC-basal ganglia network (Greenberg et al, 2010). Indeed, DBS interventions specifically affect vmPFC, OFC, and possibly dACC connections with striatum, thalamus, and/or brainstem (Figure 1) (Lehman et al, 2011). The efficacy of VC/VS DBS (or lesions) for OCD likely requires modulating the OFC/vmPFC/dACC-basal ganglia circuit. Interestingly, high frequency stimulation (HFS) in a rat homolog of the VC/VS DBS target reduces OFC activity, enhances local field potential delta band activity in OFC, and enhances synchrony between specific regions within this prefrontal network (McCracken and Grace, 2009). Thus, OCD pathophysiology likely represents dysfunctional network interactions rather than only disruption within specific structures.