cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
AUTOMATIC CUTTER SELECTION AND OPTIMAL CUTTER PATH GENERATION FOR PRISMATIC PARTS

Abstract NC code generation, if done manually, forms the bottleneck in a production system. Hence automatic NC code generation forms an important part of a totally automated manufacturing system. Most of the existing systems for this task consider cutter path generation only for limited part geometry. The work proposed here considers both optimum cutter size selection and cutter path generation. The work done encompasses almost all the features found on prismatic parts, such as slots, steps, projections, etc. First the finishing and roughing tools are selected based on minimum cutter motion criterion, then algorithms for determining the area within the cutter centre can move are outlined. The final part of the research deals with optimizing the cutter movement within this region. So here we have developed the algorithms to select an appropriate cutter and also to generate the cutter path and NC code for machining a pocket using any given cutter.
The Outflowing Wind Of V1057 Cygni

In 1970-1971, V1057 Cyg rose from about m pg 16 to a peak near 10.5 mag. It has subsequently faded to about B = 15, and although it appeared to be a T Tauri star (TTS) before the outburst, it now resembles a rather peculiar rapidly rotating G-type supergiant. Before the outburst, it showed unmistakable evidence of high-velocity outflow (by the suppression of emission Ca II ?3968 by the P Cyg absorption component of H ?3970). Such outflow absorptions are currently found at many strong lines (H?, Na I D1,2, K I ??7664, 7698, Ca II ??8498, 8662, ?...). The same phenomenon has since been observed in a number of other FUors near maximum light, suggesting that it is a FUor characteristic that clearly differs from the outflows found in TTSs. The Li I resonance line at 6707 ? is relatively weak, and on high-resolution spectra obtained between 1997 and 2008 showed variable absorption structure on its shortward side that probably represents wind structure that is lost in the stronger lines. In addition, a narrow emission line at 6707 ? persists throughout the series and is the counterpart of the sharp emission lines that occur near the centers of many of the broad stellar absorption lines (v sin i = 55 km s?1) and that were responsible for the line-splitting phenomenon formerly regarded as evidence of a Keplerian disk. Given the evidence of a quasi-permanent outflow at V1057 Cyg, the hypothesis is advanced that a FUor outburst may be the result of a rapidly rotating TTS having contracted to a point of rotational instability, at which time it sheds enough material and angular momentum to resume contraction, until the next such event.
Meconium staining of amniotic fluid correlates with intestinal peel formation in gastroschisis.

Several studies in animal models demonstrate that peel formation in gastroschisis is due to the accumulation and activation of intestinal waste products (IWP) in the amniotic fluid. We reviewed our recent experience with gastroschisis and asked the following questions: First, does staining of the bowel and amniotic fluid with IWP correlate with intestinal peel formation? Second, what prenatal ultrasound findings indicate that peel formation is occurring in utero? Over two years, 16 neonates were treated for gastroschisis; twelve had been diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound and followed closely. Patients were grouped based on the presence of IWP in the amniotic fluid at the time of delivery (staining or no staining), and outcomes were reviewed. All neonates in the staining group ( n =7) had a fibrinous peel present at the time of birth whereas a peel was absent in all neonates in the no-staining group ( n =9). Matting of the bowel was seen by prenatal ultrasound in four patients in the staining group (0/8 in the no-staining group) and correlated with peel formation (Fisher’s exact test p =0.007). Primary closure was done in 14 of the infants, and two required silo closure. In neonates with gastroschisis, staining of the amniotic fluid and bowel serosa with IWP correlated with intestinal peel formation. The ultrasound findings of matting correlated with both peel formation and staining with IWP. These results suggest that spillage of IWP into the amniotic fluid is one of the factors in peel formation in gastroschisis. Identification of matting of the bowel by prenatal ultrasound indicates formation of a peel.
On the finiteness of a field-theoretic invariant for commutative rings

If T is a (commutative unital) ring extension of a ring R, then Λ(T /R) is defined to be the supremum of the lengths of chains of intermediate fields between RP/P RP and TQ/QTQ, where Q varies over Spec(T) and P:= Q ∩ R. The invariant σ(R):= sup Λ(T/R), where T varies over all the overrings of R. It is proved that if Λ(S/R)< ∞ for all rings S between R and T, then (R, T) is an INC-pair; and that if (R, T) is an INC-pair such that T is a finite-type R-algebra, then Λ(T/R)< ∞. Consequently, if R is a domain with σ(R) < ∞, then the integral closure of R is a Prufer domain; and if R is a Noetherian G-domain, then σ(R) < ∞, with examples showing that σ(R) can be any given non-negative integer. Other examples include that of a onedimensional Noetherian locally pseudo-valuation domain R with σ(R)=∞.
Fossil Beetle Evidence for a Short Warm Interval near 40,000 yr B.P. at Titusville, Pennsylvania

A brief cold–warm–cold climate change during the middle Wisconsinan is described for the first time in North America, based on fossil beetle assemblages at Titusville, Pennsylvania. AMS dating of insect chitin and wood suggests the change occurred between 39,000 and 43,500 yr B.P. Basal peats in river terrace deposits contain arctic–subarctic beetle species representing a climate similar to that found at treeline in Canada, where mean July temperatures range from 10° to 13°C. These cold-adapted beetles were replaced by species representing a climate similar to the mixed coniferous–deciduous forests of southern Canada, where mean July temperatures range from 18° to 20°C. In turn, these warmer-adapted beetles were replaced by arctic–subarctic species in the upper part of the section, representing a climate with mean July temperatures in the range 10°–13°C. The brief warm interval is informally designated the Titusville interstade. The difference in temperature between the colder and warmer intervals is about 5°–7°C. The Titusville interstade is correlated with the Upton Warren Interstade of the British Isles which is of similar age and intensity. It is also correlated with the high sea-surface temperature interval between Heinrich events 4 and 5 represented in North Atlantic sediment cores.
Error specific restrictions for older drivers: Promoting continued independence and public safety

Abstract Objectives To describe a population of older drivers with driving restrictions, their most common restrictions, and to compare restricted drivers to their safe and unsafe counterparts. Safe drivers are those who do not commit hazardous errors or traffic violations. Unsafe drivers are those who commit hazardous errors and/or traffic violations that place them in hazardous situations. Restricted drivers are those who have committed traffic or rule violations only under certain driving conditions. Design A retrospective, cross-sectional study with mixed methodology. Setting A clinical driving evaluation program within an academic geriatrics department. Participants Drivers age 60+ ( N = 108) referred for clinical driving evaluation and who consented to allow their data to be used for research purposes. Intervention Drivers performing at an intermediate level driving fitness were issued error specific driving restrictions. Measurement Driving evaluation included clock drawing test (CDT), mini-mental status exam (MMSE), Trailmaking, geriatric depression scale (GDS), and simulated driving. Results The three most common restrictions were limited driving distance ( N = 8), limited driving time ( N = 8), and daytime only driving ( N = 8). Safe, restricted, and unsafe drivers significantly differed on MMSE ( F [2,104] = 10.75, p F [2,76] = 9.96, p F [2,98] = 29.88, p F [2,97] = 39.06, p p p = 0.008), CDT ( p p p = 0.004). Conclusion Preliminary data indicate restricted drivers perform more like safe than unsafe drivers. Driving simulation is instrumental in discerning error specific limitations and categorizing patients as conditionally safe. This clinical evaluation pilots an effective alternative to premature driving cessation.
A Study of Wave Shapes for Radio-Noise-Meter Calibrations

THIS PAPER presents the results of a theoretical and experimental study directed toward obtaining better agreement between measurements made with different radio-noise meters and proposes a modification of the present method of calibration. The need for work on this subject was pointed out in a paper1 of which the writer was coauthor, presented before the Institute in 1943. Earlier papers2–4 have described the develop ment of the radio-noise meter and methods of calibration.
On the Physics of the Flow Separation Along a Low Pressure Turbine Blade Under Unsteady Flow Conditions

The present study, which is the first of a series of investigations dealing with specific issues of low pressure turbine (LPT) boundary layer aerodynamics, is aimed at providing detailed unsteady boundary flow information to understand the underlying physics of the inception, onset, and extent of the separation zone. A detailed experimental study on the behavior of the separation zone on the suction surface of a highly loaded LPT-blade under periodic unsteady wake flow is presented. Experimental investigations were performed at Texas A&M Turbomachinery Performance and Flow Research Laboratory using a large-scale unsteady turbine cascade research facility with an integrated wake generator and test section unit. To account for a high flow deflection of LPT-cascades at design and off-design operating points, the entire wake generator and test section unit including the traversing system is designed to allow a precise angle adjustment of the cascade relative to the incoming flow. This is done by a hydraulic platform, which simultaneously lifts and rotates the wake generator and test section unit. The unit is then attached to the tunnel exit nozzle with an angular accuracy of better than 0.05 , which is measured electronically. Utilizing a Reynolds number of 110,000 based on the blade suction surface length and the exit velocity, one steady and two different unsteady inlet flowconditions with the corresponding passing frequencies, wake velocities and turbulence intensities are investigated using hot-wire anemometry. In addition to the unsteady boundary layer measurements, blade surface pressure measurements were performed at Re=50,000, 75,000, 100,000, and 125,000 at one steady and two periodic unsteady inlet flow conditions. Detailed unsteady boundary layer measurement identifies the onset and extent of the separation zone as well as its behavior under unsteady wake flow. The results presented in ensemble-averaged and contour plot forms contribute to understanding the physics of the separation phenomenon under periodic unsteady wake flow. Several physical mechanisms are discussed.
Potential and peril of field experimentation: the use of copper to manipulate molluscan herbivores

Barriers of copper-based anti-fouling paints have become a popular method for the experimental manipulation of certain molluscan grazers, presumably by acting as a chemical barrier to movement. Although probably similar in action, copper metal can be more versatile in its application and maintenance. Its efficacy was confirmed in field experiments which examined the colonization of artificial surfaces by the intertidal red alga Halosaccion glandiforme (Rupr.). However, even though copper has the desired indirect effect on algae (i.e., the exclusion of grazers), it can still have undesirable direct effects as well, and these “costs of manipulation” must be recognized. These results demonstrate the necessity of proper controls in field experimentation, a consideration absent in many past studies. The general use of partial manipulations as control treatments appears useless for estimating artifacts associated with the use of copper barriers in particular and for other experimental manipulations in general. More meaningful controls may rely on finding multiple ways of manipulating the variable of interest.
Change in the binding of hydrogen ions and magnesium ions in the hydrolysis of ATP

The binding of hydrogen ions and magnesium ions by a biochemical reactant, like ATP, can be calculated by writing the binding polynomial (partition function) Q and taking the partial derivatives of log Q with respect to pH and pMg by use of a mathematical program in a personal computer. The change in binding of hydrogen ions and magnesium ions in a biochemical reaction, like the hydrolysis of ATP, can be calculated by taking the partial derivatives of log (K'/K), where K' is the apparent equilibrium constant and K is the equilibrium constant for a reference chemical reaction. These calculations can be checked by using the computer to calculate the mixed partial derivatives, which must be equal. The effects of pH, pMg, and ionic strength on the changes in binding in the hydrolysis of ATP are calculated. At 298.15 K, pH7, pMg 3, and 0.25 M ionic strength, the hydrolysis of ATP to ADP and inorganic phosphate liberates 0.62 mol of hydrogen ions and 0.45 mol of magnesium ions into the medium.
Novel highly thermostable pullulanase from thermophiles

Abstract Some highly thermostable pullulanases from thermophiles belong to a new class of pullulanase that cleaves α 1–4 linkages from starch. Some of these enzymes are stable and active above 90°C. The enzymes have great potential for use directly, both in starch liquefaction (with or without α-amylase) and in saccharification processes. More highly thermostable and thermoactive pullulanases may yet be isolated from thermophiles. This new class of pullulanase may prove superior to the commercial thermostable α-amylase from Bacillus licheniformis used for industrial starch liquefaction processes. The novel pullulanases may also be useful for single-step starch conversion into various maltodextrins.
Developing Engineering Ontology for Information Retrieval

When engineering content is created and applied during the product life cycle, it is often stored and forgotten. Since search remains word based, engineers do not have the effective means to harness and reuse past designs and experiences. Current information retrieval approaches based on statistical methods and keyword matching do not satisfy users' needs in the engineering domain. Therefore, we propose a new computational framework that includes an ontological basis and algorithms to retrieve unstructured engineering documents while handling complex queries. The results from the preliminary test demonstrate that our method outperforms the traditional keyword-based search with respect to the standard information retrieval measurement.
Auditory feedback in music performance: Evidence for a dissociation of sequencing and timing

Four experiments examined temporal relationships between actions and auditory feedback in music performance. Experiment 1 incorporated phase shifts of feedback, which disrupted produced timing but not overall accuracy. Experiment 2 incorporated period shifts of pitch contents for synchronized feedback that primarily disrupted accuracy more than timing. Experiment 3 incorporated combined phase and period shifts, which caused moderate disruption to timing and accuracy and revealed interactive effects of period and phase shifts on production. A 4th experiment included all feedback conditions in the same session to confirm differences across Experiments 1–3. These results are consistent with the view that actions and their perceptual consequences are coordinated in a way that distinguishes timing (phase shifts) from sequencing (period shifts). The production of complex sequences, such as music and speech, involves the coordination of motor actions that produce successive acoustic events. Given the cognitive and motoric complexity involved in such tasks, one can overlook how perceiving
JOSEPH A. CUSHMAN AWARD

Jere H. Lipps received the Joseph A. Cushman Award for Excellence in Foraminiferal Research on October 24, 2006 at a standing-room-only Cushman Reception of the Geological Society of America Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, PA. Lipps’ productive career has promoted foraminiferal research to the forefront of both geological and biological sciences, and has strongly influenced the next generation of micropaleontologists and geobiologists. Jere began his foraminiferal studies in his native Los Angeles at the University of California Los Angeles in the 1960’s. Under the direction of Helen Tappan, along with mentoring from Al Loeblich, he completed his PhD in 1966, after which he quickly rose through the academic ranks at the University of California Davis. Jere opted to join the faculty of the University of California Berkeley in 1988, where he remains to the present as a Professor of Integrative Biology and a Faculty Curator in the Museum of Paleontology. Lipps’ research interests include the evolutionary biology of marine organisms, especially protists; the ecological and biological study of extant and extinct species; and the astrobiology of Jupiter’s icy moons …
The load optimization of a repairable system with gamma-distributed time-to-failure

Abstract We consider a system which supports a load in such a way that the profit earned by the system for one time unit is a continuous and increasing function of the amount of the load. The time-to-failure distribution of the system is assumed to be gamma. Both parameters of the distribution are continuous functions of the load such that the mean time-to-failure is a decreasing function of the load. The system earns the profit only when it is on. When it is off, it is repaired, and the losses are assumed to be proportional to the repair time. We define the average asymptotic gain earned by the system in a single time unit; this quantity can be thought of as a system efficiency measure. Assuming that the load is a controllable variable, the goal is to find a value of the load that maximizes the so-defined efficiency. To model the relationship between the load and the parameters of the time-to-failure distribution (gamma) as well as the relation between the load and the profit, power and exponential functions have been taken. The analytical conditions for the existence of maximum positive gain and the analysis of the behaviour of the gain as the load varies are presented.
Modularity, context-dependence, and insulation in engineered biological circuits

The ability to link systems together such that they behave as predicted once they interact with each other is an essential requirement for the forward-engineering of robust synthetic biological circuits. Unfortunately, because of context-dependencies, parts and functional modules often behave unpredictably once interacting in the cellular environment. This paper reviews recent advances toward establishing a rigorous engineering framework for insulating parts and modules from their context to improve modularity. Overall, a synergy between engineering better parts and higher-level circuit design will be important to resolve the problem of context-dependence.
Estradiol reverses TGF-β1–induced mesangial cell apoptosis by a casein kinase 2-dependent mechanism

Estradiol reverses TGF-β1–induced mesangial cell apoptosis by a casein kinase 2-dependent mechanism. Background The slower rate of progression of chronic renal disease in women than in men is explained in part by the ability of estradiol to reverse the stimulatory effect of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) on collagen IV synthesis at the level of casein kinase 2 activation. Casein kinase 2 also phosphorylates and activates the pro-apoptotic protein, p53. We hypothesized that estradiol would reverse TGF-β1–induced mesangial cell apoptosis by antagonizing the stimulatory effects of TGF-β1 on casein kinase 2 activity, thereby preventing p53 activation. Methods The effects of TGF-β1 on mesangial cell apoptosis, p53 phosphorylation, Bax and Bcl-2 levels, caspase 9 activity, and cleavage of PARP were examined. The abilities of estradiol and a specific inhibitor of CK2 (5,6-dichloro-1-β-D-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole) (DRB) to modulate the effects of TGF-β1 on these processes were also examined. Results TGF-β1 (2 ng/mL), which up-regulates CK2 activity, induces apoptosis in murine mesangial cells together with p53 serine 389 phosphorylation, up-regulation of Bax, suppression of Bcl-2, destabilization of mitochondrial permeability transition pores, stimulation of caspase 9 activity and activation of PARP. TGF-β1–induced p53 activation and all the intermediary steps leading to mesangial cell apoptosis were reversed by estradiol (10 -9 mol/L) and by DRB, potent inhibitors of CK2 activity, but not by inhibitors of the p38 MAPK, ERK or JNK signaling cascades. In contrast, TGF-β1 failed to induce apoptosis in p53 knockout mesangial cells. Conclusions Our data suggest that CK2 mediates the stimulatory effects of TGF-β1 on mesangial cell apoptosis via a p53-dependent mechanism. The ability of estradiol to reverse TGF-β1–induced apoptosis may contribute to the protective effects of female gender on the course of chronic renal disease.
Effects of prolyl-leucyl-glycinamide and cyclo(leucyl-glycine) on morphine-induced antinociception and brain μ, δ and κ opiate receptors

Abstract The effects of prolyl-leucyl-glycinamide and cyclo (leucyl-glycine) on morphine-induced antinociception in mice and on in vitro binding of 3H-ligands for opiate receptor subtypes (μ, δ and κ) the mouse brain homogenate were determined. Subcutaneous administration of either of the above peptides (1, 2, and 4 mg/kg) 10 min prior to the injection of morphine did not affect morphine-induced antinociception as evidenced by the identical ED50 values of morphine in vehicle and peptide treated groups. The binding of 3H-dihydromorphine and 3H-naloxone ( μ receptors), 3HDAla2DLeu5-enkephalin (δ receptors), and 3H-ethylketocyclazocine (κ receptors) to opiate receptors in the mouse brain homogenate was also unaffected by both the peptides over a large concentration range. It is concluded that these peptides do not interact with brain opiate receptors.
Nanodomain shock wave in near-field laser–material interaction

Abstract In this work, molecular dynamics simulation is conducted to explore the shock wave phenomena in a nanodomain in near-field laser–material interaction. A large system consisting of over 800,000 atoms is studied. The work focuses on the kinetic and physical properties of the disturbed gas compression driven by the high speed movement of the molten particulates ejected from the solid target in a nanodomain. The quick interaction between solid and gas atoms compresses the gas and forms a steep shock wave front, which moves at a supersonic speed. The fast compression of gas also induces a steep interface of density, temperature and pressure distribution, which is viewed as typical characteristics of nanoscale shock waves. Evolutions of shock wave front position, velocity and Mach number are also explored and show quick decay during wave propagation.
Incidence and Prognostic Factors for Seroma Development Following MammoSite Breast Brachytherapy (MBT): The Medical University of South Carolina Experience

Purpose/Objective(s): Describe the incidence and identify risk factors for seroma development following MBT. Materials/Methods: MBT patient data were prospectively recorded into a quality assurance database. Departmental and electronic records were reviewed to extract patient-, treatment-, and outcome-specific data. Stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors predictive of development of any seroma including the subset of clinically significant seromas (CSS; defined as requiring multiple aspirations, biopsy, and/or excision). Variables analyzed included age, weight, history of diabetes, tobacco use, number of excisions, time from resection to catheter placement, placement technique and approach, catheter dwell time, overlying skin thickness, balloon volume, number of dwell positions, dosimetric factors (V100%, V150%, V200%), chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and post-brachytherapy infection. Results: MBT was performed in 109 patients, of whom 97 had minimum 6 months (median 36) post-MBT follow-up or earlier development of seroma. All patients received 34 Gy to 1cm depth from balloon edge, delivered twice daily in 10 fractions. Seroma developed in 41% of patients at a median of 3 months (range 0.1-25) post-MBT. One third of seromas (13% of all patients) developed CSS. The only factor identified as statistically significant for development of any seroma was catheter placement on day of resection versus >1 day later (59% vs 33%; p=0.0066). Post-MBT infection was highly statistically significant for development of CSS (64% vs 7%; p<0.0001). Prophylactic antibiotics reduced the risk of post-MBT infection from 37.5% to 6% (p=0.011). Conclusions: The incidence of CSS development after MBT is low. Post-MBT infection is a statistically significant predictor for CSS. The incidence of infection is reduced with prophylactic antibiotics.
Precise Re-Os determinations and systematics of iron meteorites

The Re-Os system for samples of FeNi, sulphide, and phosphide from iron meteorites was investigated. Techniques were developed which yield reproducible analyses for Re/Os at the 2‰ level and which permit complete isotopic exchange between sample and tracer, as is necessary for concentration measurements of Re and Os by isotope dilution. High precision osmium and rhenium isotope data have been obtained using negative ion thermal ionization, with ionization efficiencies of up to 10% for Os and 20% for Re, both for normals and for Re and Os extracted from the samples. Replicate analyses of Re/Os are in good agreement, within ±2.5‰. The results show a well defined correlation line on a ^(187)Re-^(187)Os evolution diagram for iron meteorites from groups IAB, IIAB, IIIAB, IVA, and IVB, all taken together. This correlation line yields a slope of 0.07863 ± 0.00031 (2σ) and initial ^(187)Os/^(188)Os = 0.09560 ∓ 0.00018 (2σ). If the individual groups of iron meteorites for which there is sufficient dispersion in Re/Os are considered, data on the IIAB and on the IVA irons appear to indicate a difference in age of 60 ± 45 Ma, with the IVA group being older-This age difference is qualitatively the same as obtained for Pd-Ag data but is larger. Sulphides from two IAB iron meteorites show extremely low concentrations of Re and Os and indicate that Re and Os are not partitioned into this phase during planetary differentiation. There is evidence for recent element remobilization or contamination, corresponding to relative enrichment of Re or loss of Os in the sulphides. Schreibersites contain small but significant amounts of Re and Os, with high Re/Os relative to the metal phases and with ^(187)Os/^(188)Os much more radiogenic than in the metal. Model ages for the schreibersites are relatively young (4.3-3.5 AE) and indicate that the schreibersites were open-systems for Re-Os at least 0.5-1 AE after the original formation of the iron meteorites, It now appears possible to use metal-schreibersite pairs to determine internal isochrons. Based on the schreibersite model ages, the cooling rates for the two IAB meteorites are estimated to be ~ 1°C/Ma, more than an order of magnitude lower than the most recently determined metallographic cooling rates for IAB irons (Herpfer et al., 1994).
A reevaluation of the Hofmann rearrangement in electron deficient systems: preparation of 2‐(15N)‐amino‐4,6‐dinitrotoluene and 4‐(15N)‐amino‐2,6‐dinitrotoluene

The Hofmann rearrangement is an excellent synthetic method to introduce amino functions into aromatic molecules; however, it becomes less efficient in electron-deficient systems because of competitive hydrolytic reactions. This report describes the preparation of the aminodinitrotoluenes (ADNTs) 2-(15N)-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene and 4-(15N)-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene by developing conditions using HPLC as a reaction monitoring technique. Both ADNTs were prepared in >70% yield and >95% isotropic purity by using organic solvents and controlling pH during the formation of N-chlorobenzamides and then performing the rearrangement. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Mesozoic Stratigraphy of the Yangtze Gorges.

(Abstract) The specimen is collected from a small outcrop near the Lolo village of Mao Mao Kou, some 30 km. N.N.W. of Hui Li district in S. Szechuan, on the N. slope of Lung Tsao Shan, a prominant mountain some 8,000 feet above the sea, entirely covered by a basaltic lava of Permian age. The latter weathers into a residual red clay which covers the lower slopes. The contact of the syenite with the Lung Tsao Shan lava was not observed owing to the thick cover. East of the occurrence a series of steep dipping red shales appears. The exact relation of this series with the syenite is not clear, but it is probable that they are in actual contact. Further east the red shale series is thrown into contact with a coal series containing Rhaetic plant fossils—probably by an overthrust as the whole coal series is highly folded.
Nanocomposite dielectrics—properties and implications

The incorporation of nanoparticles into thermosetting resins is seen to impart desirable dielectric properties when compared with conventional (micron-sized particulates) composites. Although the improvements are accompanied by the mitigation of internal charge in the materials, the nature of the interfacial region is shown to be pivotal in determining the dielectric behaviour. In particular, it is shown that the conditions and enhanced area of the interface changes the bonding that may give rise to an interaction zone, which affects the interfacial polarization through the formation of local conductivity.
Built-In-Self-Testing Techniques for Programmable Capacitor Arrays

This paper presents efficient built-in-self-testing (BIST) techniques for programmable capacitor arrays (PCAs) on field programmable analog array (FPAA) platforms. The proposed BIST circuits consist of switched-capacitor (SC) integrators and analog window comparators. Taking advantage of FPAA programmable resources, the proposed PCA BIST circuits can be implemented with very small hardware overhead. Also the impact of comparator threshold variations as well as other circuit parasitic effects on the efficiency of the proposed testing method is investigated. Effective circuit techniques along with new comparator designs are presented to minimize the adverse effect of comparator threshold variations. Finally, procedures for using the proposed BIST method to systematically test all PCAs on an FPAA platform are described and experimental results are presented.
Otologic manifestations of the hydantoin syndrome.

The temporal bones of a newborn infant with hydantoin syndrome showed multiple middle ear and inner ear anomalies. There was a constellation of bony and membranous defects involving the oval and round windows, cochlear ducts, cochlear aqueducts, endolymphatic ducts and sacs, and vestibular labyrinths. To the authors' knowledge, super-numerary vestibular sensory epithelial structures and an inner ear epidermoid cyst have not been previously reported. Wide communications between the subarachnoid space and inner ear were of surgical relevance.
Light and electron microscope studies of smooth endoplasmic reticulum in dividing rot hepatic cells

Light and electron microscope studies of dividing hepatic cells of regenerating rat livers were performed in order to determine the location and intracellular associations of smooth endoplasmic reticulum during mitosis and cytokinesis. In contrast to an apparent random distribution during interphase, a definite association between centrosomal regions and smooth endoplasmic reticulum was observed in prometaphase. At metaphase and early anaphase, smooth endoplasmic reticulum was located between the poles of the mitotic spindle and the polar cell cortex. During late anaphase, smooth endoplasmic reticulum occurred in discrete subcortical arrays on either side of the spindle, and no longer at the poles of the cell. During early telophase, membranes of smooth endoplasmic reticulum were located in advance of the incipient cleavage furrow, while during late telophase, such membranes remained near the lateral cortex not involved in furrowing. Glycogen particles were admixed with smooth endoplasmic membranes during this sequence of events. Periodic acid-Schiff staining of thick sections revealed that masses of glycogen followed a pattern of distribution during mitosis and cytokinesis similar to that described above for smooth endoplasmic reticulum. These observations demonstrate distinct orientations and associations, and suggest displacement or flow, of smooth endoplasmic reticulum in hepatic cells during division. The possible role of smooth endoplasmic reticulum in regulating cytokinesis is discussed.
Interalgorithmic evaluation of SAR image segmentation algorithms using multiple measures

To ensure that the best possible image segmentation algorithm transitions into a real world recognition system, the segmentation algorithm must be properly evaluated. A novel approach is introduced for evaluating image segmentation algorithms. Part of the approach is to use a system of multiple measures. Using intra-algorithmic comparisons, three measures are tested on a small suite of segmented image test cases. The results from using three measures on the test suite demonstrate significant differences in the ability of the measures to distinguish segmentation quality. Another part of the novel approach is the use of an inter-algorithmic comparison which is shown to assist the evaluation of segmentation algorithms where exact edge truth is unknown such as is the case with Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery. Results are demonstrated by using segmentation on a SAR target chip provided by the Moving and Stationary Target Acquisition and Recognition (MSTAR) program.
Effects on a high-fat diet (HFD) on dendritic morphology in the male rat hypothalamic ventromedial nucleus (VMH).

We recently reported that caloric restriction was associated with a selective shortening of dendrites in the VMH. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that exposure to a high-fat diet, which causes weight gain in a subset of rats, also would be associated with modifications in dendritic morphology. Adult male rats were provided with a 15% fat diet ( n =9) or a 45% fat diet ( n =9) for 17 days. There was substantial variability in the 17-day weight gain in the group of animals given the HFD. Therefore, this group was subdivided. All animals that were within one standard deviation of the average weight gain of the low-fat control group were considered “non-responders” ( n =4). The animals whose weight gain was beyond that range were considered “responders” ( n =5). The HFD-responders consumed more kcal per day and gained more weight than either the control animals or the HFD-non-responders (both p p n =3 per group) suggests that the long primary dendrites are shortened in the HFD-responders. Thus, dendrite morphology in the VMH may not be monotonically correlated with leptin levels or energy balance. This research was supported by DK52018.
Bone-marrow-cell grafts involving the H-2D and H-2L mutant haplotypes.

TwoH-2 d mutants,H-2 dm2 (H-2L loss mutation) andH-2dm1 (gainplus-loss mutation involving bothH-2L andH-2D) were evaluated for any change in the immunogenicity of marrow stem cells. Grafts of 2 or 4 × 106 BALB/c(C) or BALB/c-H-2dm2 (C-H-2 dm 2) marrow cells were accepted by lethally irradiated B10.D2(H-2 d ) recipients and were rejected by irradiated B10(H-2 b ) recipients. Moreover, both (B6 × C)F1 and (B6 × C-H-2 dm 2)F1 mice, as irradiated recipients, resisted the growth of parental-strain B6(H-2 b ) marrow cells but accepted grafts from C or C-H-2 dm 2 parental-strain donors. Thus, theH-2 mutation involvingH-2L but notH-2D did not affect the expression ofH-2 d -associated Hemopoietic or Hybrid(Hh) antigens of marrow stem cells. Grafts of 2 to 8 × 106 B10.D2 or B10.D2-H-2 dm 1 marrow cells were rejected by B10.BR(H-2 k ) and B6 hosts and were accepted by B10.D2 hosts. However, B10.D2-H-2 dm 1 marrow cells grew to a much greater extent than B10.D2 cells in irradiated (B6 × B10.D2)F1 or (B6 × B10.D2-H-2 dm 1)F1 host mice. Therefore, theH-2 dm 1 mutation has altered the expression of Hh antigens at least quantitatively, resulting in a relative loss of “hybrid resistance” with the retention of Hh determinants recognized by allogeneic recipient mice which are notH-2 d . Since the Hh determinants of B10.D2 marrow cells have been mapped 16 cM to the right ofH-2, this mutation atH-2D/H-2L may have affected a regulatory gene.
Detrimental effects of sedimentation on marine benthos: what can be learned from natural processes and rates?

Abstract Benthic organisms are adapted to the natural processes of sediment movement, erosion and deposition. Laboratory studies have cataloged the range of responses to flow and sediment movement that allow benthos to survive, and even to thrive, under intense, storm-driven sediment movement. Extreme sedimentation events also result from man's modifications of the nearshore marine environment, and the scale and magnitude of these alterations can often greatly exceed that of natural occurrences. Unfortunately, there is little of the quantitative information necessary for predicting how materials placement, sediment deposition and erosion will affect the ecology of these environments. We are using both field and laboratory approaches in Delaware Bay to address two questions. First, what rates and frequencies of sediment movement characterize natural events, and second, what rates and frequencies are detrimental to representative benthic species and functional groups. We present these results as case studies that address ecological impacts of dredge materials placement, site selection and benthic community responses. Quantifying natural sedimentation rates and the susceptibility of macrofauna by functional groups are both critical to reliably predicting environmental impacts. If biological effects are parameterized appropriately (i.e. in terms of natural processes), it may be possible to employ the existing knowledge-base of benthic ecology to predict effects of disturbances and to design projects that will minimize these impacts. Materials placement that is analogous to natural events should allow community responses to follow natural seasonal and successional trends and to exhibit minimal anthropogenic impacts. When sedimentation exceeds natural thresholds, then impacts may involve total loss of the community and subsequent colonization by pioneer species. In this latter case, an entirely different suite of ecological processes will drive impacts and recovery, potentially leading to dramatically altered benthic communities. Understanding organisms’ sublethal responses and drawing on experimental ecological studies will lead to improved prediction of benthic community responses and more reliable assessment of project impacts.
Differential cytotoxicity of dopamine and H2O2 in a human neuroblastoma divided cell line transfected with α-synuclein and its familial Parkinson's disease-linked mutants

alpha-Synuclein accumulates in Lewy bodies and two missense mutations, A30P and A53T, have been linked to familial Parkinson's disease. Neither the normal function of alpha-synuclein nor the pathomechanism of alpha-synuclein-induced neuropathy are known. SK-N-MC neuroblastoma cells were transiently transfected with either wt alpha-synuclein, or its mutants, and their abilities to protect against oxidative stress were assessed. At low expression levels (1 microg cDNA/10(5) cells), all three synuclein variants were devoid of any effect on dopamine-induced cytotoxicity and nitrite production, whereas at higher expression (5 microg cDNA/10(5) cells), the variants enhanced dopamine-mediated effects. Low levels of wt alpha-synuclein blocked H(2)O(2)-induced cytotoxicity and nitrite production, a protective effect that was partly decreased upon higher expression. Both A30P and A53T increased in a dose-dependent manner H(2)O(2)-induced nitrite production and cell death. These results show an absence of protective effects for the A30P/A53T mutants, and a differential cytoprotective role of alpha-synuclein against oxidants, which varies according to expression levels.
A shock tube laser schlieren study of methyl acetate dissociation in the fall-off regime

The pyrolysis of methyl acetate, 2% and 4% dilute in krypton, was investigated in a diaphragmless shock tube (DFST) using laser schlieren densitometry (LS). Experiments were performed at 122 ± 3 and 63 ± 2 Torr over the temperature range of 1492–2266 K. Master equation models for the four main dissociation paths of methyl acetate based on a prior study by Peukert et al. [S. Peukert, R. Sivaramakrishnan, M. Su and J. Michael, Combust. Flame, 2012, 159, 2312–2323] were refined and formed the basis for simulating the LS experiments. The density gradient profiles from the LS experiments indicate that the initial dissociation proceeds predominantly by breakage of the C–O bond leading ultimately to two methyl radicals and CO2, accounting for 83–88% of the methyl acetate loss over this temperature range. Rate coefficients for dissociation of methyl acetate were satisfactorily simulated with a master equation model, with modelled rate coefficients of k120 Torr = 9.06 × 1081 × T−19.07 × exp(−61600K/T) s−1, k60 Torr = 3.71 × 1082 × T−19.34 × exp(−61200K/T) s−1, and of k∞ = 1.97 × 1030 × T−3.80 × exp(−47900K/T) s−1 for the major channel, based on fitting to 120 Torr and 60 Torr data taken in this study. The model also captures the pressure dependency of methyl acetate dissociation and resolves an earlier discrepancy concerning the mechanism of dissociation of methyl acetate.
Comparative Protein Structure Modeling in Genomics

The function of a protein is generally determined by its three-dimensional (3D) structure. Thus, it would be useful to know the 3D structures of the thousands of protein sequences that are emerging from the many genome projects. This is the aim ofstructural genomics. The aim will be achieved by a focused, large-scale determination of protein structures by X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, combined efficiently with accurate protein structure modeling techniques. In particular, comparative or homology-based protein structure modeling is expected to play a major role in this effort. Comparative modeling calculates a 3D model of a given protein sequence from the previously determined structures of related proteins. It involves fold assignment, sequence?structure alignment, model building, and model evaluation. To enable large-scale modeling, these steps are being assembled into a completely automated pipeline. The methods involved in the pipeline and their performance are reviewed. The errors in the resulting models are described and their uses in biology are discussed.
Effect of splenectomy on the resistance of rats to histamine stress.

THE spleen has been suggested by many investigators as a site of production of hormones or hormone-like substances ; interrelationships have been postulated with the pituitary, adrenal, gonad and thyroid glands. The present communication on the relationship of histamine tolerance to splenectomy provides additional evidence for a splenic humoral contribution.
Peak expiratory flow is not a quality indicator for spirometry: peak expiratory flow variability and FEV1 are poorly correlated in an elderly population.

Background Peak forced expiratory flow (PEF) and FEV 1 are spirometry measures used in diagnosing and monitoring lung diseases. We tested the premise that within-test variability in PEF is associated with corresponding variability in FEV 1 during a single test session. Methods A total of 2,464 healthy adults from the Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study whose spirometry results met American Thoracic Society acceptability criteria were screened and analyzed. The three "best" test results (highest sum of FVC and FEV 1 ) were selected for each subject. For those with acceptable spirometry results, two groups were created: group 1, normal FEV 1 /FVC ratio; group 2, reduced FEV 1 /FVC ratio. For each subject, the difference between the highest and lowest PEF (ΔPEF) and the associated difference between the highest and lowest FEV 1 (ΔFEV 1 ) were calculated. Regression analysis was performed using the largest PEF and best FEV 1 , and the percentage of ΔPEF (%ΔPEF) and percentage of ΔFEV 1 (%ΔFEV 1 ) were calculated in both groups. Results Regression analysis for group 1 and group 2 showed an insignificant association between %ΔPEF and %ΔFEV 1 ( r 2 = 0.0001, p=0.59, and r 2 = 0.040, p=0.15, respectively). For both groups, a 29% ΔPEF was associated with a 1% ΔFEV 1 . Conclusion Within a single spirometry test session, %ΔPEF and %ΔFEV 1 contain independent information. PEF has a higher degree of intrinsic variability than FEV 1 . Changes in PEF do not have a significant effect on FEV 1 . Spirometry maneuvers should not be excluded based on peak flow variability.
Broadcasters' License Renewal Claims Regarding Children's Educational Programming.

This research examined 48 stations seeking FCC license renewal in 1992 and assessed their efforts to fulfill the programming requirements of the Children's Television Act of 1990. The study found that stations reported a weekly average of roughly three and a half hours of educational programming specifically designed for children, although many of the programs claimed were of questionable educational value. Many stations evidenced shortcomings in either correctly completing their renewal applications and/or properly satisfying their programming obligations. The data are interpreted as demonstrating inadequate performance by broadcasters in response to the new legislative requirements.
Perspectives on the animal mind

Charles Darwin was one of the first to propose a unified framework with which to understand human and animal behavior. The foundation of Darwin’s framework is his theory of descent with modification. What Darwin was convinced that theory allowed him to say about human and animal behavior is exemplified in the ‘continuity thesis.’ As Darwin put it, ‘there is a much wider interval in mental power between one of the lowest fishes, as a lamprey or lancelet, and one of the higher apes, than between an ape and a man; yet this interval is filled up by numberless gradations’ (Darwin 1871 [1936]: 453). Darwin’s continuity thesis is the foundation of contemporary studies of animal behavior; it is, along with contemporary evolutionary theory, what unifies the field of animal behavior. This special issue brings together papers in the tradition of the cognitive approach to animal behavior, an approach to animal behavior which attributes ‘mentality’ to animals. Donald Griffin (1978) named this approach ‘cognitive ethology’ in 1978 with the specific aim of creating a research program that explored the mental lives of non-human animals. Notice what Griffin was after: He wanted to explore the mental lives of non-human animals, not justify the claim that non-human animals have mental lives. In this effort, Griffin reflected earlier critics in psychology who came to the view that psychological behaviorism was not viable as an approach to explaining adequately human capacities. Griffin’s cognitive ethology is Darwin’s continuity thesis full steam ahead. Ultimately, the perspectives on animal minds staked out in the papers collected here are driven by a cognitive approach to the study of animal behavior. Indeed, the perspectives run deep, articulating differences in approach to such study as well as to the sorts of conclusions that such studies support. There is a mix of historical, philosophical, and scientific papers covering considerable * Save for Browne’s paper, the work collected here was originally presented at the 39th Annual