cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The burning rate of hydroxylammonium nitrate-based liquid propellants

To improve the understanding of the physical processes which occur during the combustion of liquid propellants (LP), a strand burner was used to study hydroxylammonium nitrate-based LP flames. From observations of the combustion of LP in such an arrangement, much has been deduced of the physical processes that occur during LP ignition and combustion. Combustion experiments were performed in which mixtures of the salts hydroxylammonium nitrate (HAN) and triethanolammonium nitrate (TEAN) in water were ignited by an electric discharge in a vessel at pressures of up to 30 MPa. The mixtures were contained in a strand burner that permitted visual observation of LP combustion at nearly constant pressure. Images of the combustion were obtained through windows, in the pressure vessel by backlit photography, at a framing rate of 60 frames per second, with an exposure time of 100 microseconds. These images clearly showed the movement of a liquid-gas interface and a bright flame during LP combustion. Results of experiments conducted during turbulent combustion are: (1) the combustion of HAN-based LP occurs in two stages in which the liquid phase decomposition of HAN is followed by the decomposition of TEAN, (2) the turbulent combustion rate of LP 1846 decreases with increasing pressure. This variation of apparent burning rate with pressure, a result which is not seen in single component propellant combustion, is attributed to changes in the stability of the liquid-gas interface with pressure, and (3) a model of the combustion of HAN-based liquid propellants as it occurs in bulk has been presented, showing the reaction sequence of the components of HAN-based liquid propellants.
Reissert compound studies. XVII. Phosphorus-containing reissert compound analogues†

The reaction of isoquinoline, potassium cyamide, and chlorophosphates or chlorothiophosphates leads to the formation of phosphorus containing analogues of Reisert compounds. These analogues can be converted by base to an anion which undergoes elimination to isoquinaldonitrile or which can be alkylated. Acid-catalysed hydrolysis of the analogues leads to isoquinoline.
Activation mechanism of a signaling protein at atomic resolution from advanced computations.

Advanced computational techniques including transition path sampling and free energy calculations are combined synergistically to reveal the activation mechanism at unprecedented resolution for a small signaling protein, chemotaxis protein Y. In the conventional “Y−T coupling” model for response regulators, phosphorylation induces the displacement of the conserved Thr87 residue through hydrogen-bond formation, which in turn makes it sterically possible for Tyr106 to isomerize from a solvent exposed configuration to a buried rotameric state. More than 160 unbiased activation trajectories show, however, that the rotation of Tyr106 does not rely on the displacement of Thr87 per se. Free energy calculations reveal that the Tyr106 rotation is a low-barrier process in the absence of the Thr87-phosphate hydrogen bond, although the rotation is stabilized by the formation of this interaction. The simulations also find that structural change in the β4−α4 loop does not gate the Tyr106 rotation as suggested previousl...
Environmentally friendly functionalization of single walled carbon nanotubes in molten urea

Using molten urea as the solvent, single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) are dispersed and functionalized with arenediazonium salts in less than 15 min to afford predominantly unbundled functionalized SWCNTs. This technique provides a rapid and economically viable route to produce covalently functionalized nanotubes in large amounts with an industrially friendly method.
Retinal and pineal hydroxyindole-o-methyl transferase activity in vertebrates.

Abstract Hydroxyindole-0-methyl transferase (HIOMT), an enzyme catalyzing the formation of melatonin from N-acetyl serotonin, is demonstrated for the first time to occur in the retinas of the lateral eyes of some species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and birds, and is compared in its activity level with that of the pineal organs of these animals and mamals. Pineal HIOMT activity appears to be greatest in some birds, and is probably greater than retinal HIOMT activity in most if not all Classes. The significance of these results for the design of experiments attempting to determine the effects of melatonin and pinealectomy are discussed.
An in vitro study of liposomal curcumin: stability, toxicity and biological activity in human lymphocytes and Epstein-Barr virus-transformed human B-cells.

Abstract Curcumin is a multi-functional and pharmacologically safe natural agent. Used as a food additive for centuries, it also has anti-inflammatory, anti-virus and anti-tumor properties. We previously found that it is a potent inhibitor of cyclosporin A (CsA)-resistant T-cell co-stimulation pathway. It inhibits mitogen-stimulated lymphocyte proliferation, NFκB activation and IL-2 signaling. In spite of its safety and efficacy, the in vivo bioavailability of curcumin is poor, and this may be a major obstacle to its utility as a therapeutic agent. Liposomes are known to be excellent carriers for drug delivery. In this in vitro study, we report the effects of different liposome formulations on curcumin stability in phosphate buffered saline (PBS), human blood, plasma and culture medium RPMI-1640 + 10% FBS (pH 7.4, 37 °C). Liposomal curcumin had higher stability than free curcumin in PBS. Liposomal and free curcumin had similar stability in human blood, plasma and RPMI-1640 + 10% FBS. We looked at the toxicity of non-drug-containing liposomes on 3H-thymidine incorporation by concanavalin A (Con A)-stimulated human lymphocytes, splenocytes and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-transformed human B-cell lymphoblastoid cell line (LCL). We found that dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) and dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol (DMPG) were toxic to the tested cells. However, addition of cholesterol to the lipids at DMPC:DMPG:cholesterol = 7:1:8 (molar ratio) almost completely eliminated the lipid toxicity to these cells. Liposomal curcumin had similar or even stronger inhibitory effects on Con A-stimulated human lymphocyte, splenocyte and LCL proliferation. We conclude that liposomal curcumin may be useful for intravenous administration to improve the bioavailability and efficacy, facilitating in vivo studies that could ultimately lead to clinical application of curcumin.
Training Needs Survey

A survey of current members of the American Association for the Education of the Severely/Profoundly Handicapped was conducted to assess needs within the field for the development and dissemination of training materials. Respondents rated (1) areas of critical need for training materials development, (2) delivery systems for training programs, (3) formats for the presentation of training materials, and (4) evaluation procedures for the measurement of training results. Responses indicate that training materials are needed across a number of training areas. The delivery system most frequently selected for training was college and university courses. Training based on practicum/application activities was the highest rated format for training materials. Overwhelmingly, respondents indicated that observation of the target behavior in natural settings was the preferred evaluation procedure.
Putting life on hold-for how long? Profound hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass in a Swine model of complex vascular injuries.

Background:Rapid induction of profound hypothermia for emergency preservation and resuscitation can improve survival from uncontrolled lethal hemorrhage in large animal models. We have previously demonstrated that profound hypothermia (10°C) must be induced rapidly (2°C/min) and reversed gradually (
Axonal transport and transneuronal transfer in mouse visual system following injection of [3H]fucose into the eye.

Abstract After the injection of [3H]fucose into the mouse eye, the axonal transport of radioactive glycoproteins to the lateral geniculate body and superior colliculus showed two phases: The early phase of transported radioactivity, which was more prominent, rose to a peak at 24 to 48 h after the injection and then decayed to about half its maximum value over the next 2 to 3 days; this was followed by the late phase, consisting of a plateau or shallow rise lasting until 2 to 3 weeks after the injection and then decaying with a half-time of about 2 weeks. The early phase could be attributed to the arrival of glycoproteins carried by the fast component of axonal transport. The late phase was not due to slow transport but was probably generated by the fast transport of some glycoproteins that were slowly released from the cell body. Transneuronally transferred radioactivity appearing in the striate cortex and retrosplenial cortex similarly showed two phases. If the injected eye was removed 4 h after the fucose injection, preventing the further entry of transportable material into the optic axons, both the axonally transported and transneuronally transferred radioactivity in the early phase were reduced by about 60%, and the late phase of axonal transport was abolished; the transneuronally transferred material normally appearing in the late phase was either eliminated or greatly reduced. If the enucleation was performed 2 days after the injection, the early phase of axonal transport declined with its normal time course for several days and then with a linear time course for 4 to 5 weeks. This rate of disappearance of radioactivity was much slower than in comparable experiments in which [3H]proline was used as precursor. Although the late phase of axonal transport of glycoproteins did not appear in the enucleated animals, the transneuronally transferred material did show a late phase, which was of normal magnitude in the retrosplenial cortex, though possibly somewhat reduced in the striate cortex. Therefore the transneuronally transferred material appearing at the same time as the late phase of axonal transport must have been derived from material reaching the axon terminals in the early phase. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that both in the cell body and in the axon terminals the fucosyl glycoproteins are distributed in a rapid-release pool as well as a slow-release pool. Material released from either pool in the cell body is delivered by fast axonal transport to the corresponding pool in the axon terminals, and both pools in the terminals serve as sources for transneuronally transferred material. However, since the slow-release pool in the terminals also receives material from the rapid-release pool, the slow-release pool can provide material for trans-neuronal transfer even when the late phase of axonal transport has been abolished by axotomy. It is possible that at the axon terminals the slow-release pool is located in the glial cells.
Measurement of Specific Heat Capacity and Electrical Resistivity of Industrial Alloys Using Pulse Heating Techniques

The determination of the specific heat capacity and electrical resistivity of Inconel 718, Ti-6Al-4V, and CF8M stainless steel, from room temperature to near the melting temperatures of the alloys, is described. The method is based on rapid resistive self-heating of a solid cylindrical specimen by the passage of a short-duration electric current pulse through it while simultaneously measuring the pertinent experimental quantities (i.e., voltage drop, current, and specimen temperature). From room temperature to about 1300 K, the properties are measured using an intermediate-temperature pulse-heating system by supplying a constant current from a programmable power supply and measuring the temperature using a Pt-Pt:13% Rh thermocouple welded to the surface of the specimen. From 1350 K to near the melting temperatures of the alloys, the properties are measured using a millisecond-resolution high-temperature pulse-heating system by supplying the current from a set of batteries controlled by a fast-response switching system and measuring the temperature using a high-speed pyrometer in conjunction with an ellipsometer, which is used to measure the corresponding spectral emissivity. The present study extends the application of these techniques, previously applied only to pure metals, to industrial alloys.
A model for lower continental crust

Abstract This proposed model is based on geological, geophysical and geochemical data. Previous models suggested for the lower continental crust consisted of basalt, gabbro, or charnockitic rocks; however, experimental and field petrological data indicate that the bulk of crustal rocks are metamorphic. A lower crust of heterogeneous metamorphic rocks also agrees with seismic reflection results which show numerous reflections from “layering”. Geothermal conditions favor a “dry” charnockitic or gabbroic lower crust rather than an amphibolitic lower crust because heat production data imply that wet amphibolitic rocks would have a higher heat production than their dry metamorphic equivalents. Relatively high velocities from field and laboratory measurements in such low-density rocks as granite, syenite, anorthosite and granulitic rocks in general imply that the composition of the lower crust is more felsic than gabbro. Variation in seismic velocity and depths from crustal refraction studies and numerous seismic reflections all indicate a highly heterogeneous lower crust. The lower crust, which has traditionally been described as gabbroic or mafic, may consist of such diverse rocks as granite gneiss, syenite gneiss, anorthosite, pyroxene granulite, and amphibolite, interlayered on a small scale, deformed, and intruded by granite and gabbro. Interlayering of these rocks explains the presence and character of seismic reflections. Abrupt changes in dip, tight folding, disruption of layers, intrusion, and changes in layer thickness explain the characteristic discontinuity of deep reflections. Igneous intrusions may be floored by metamorphic rocks. The lower crust consists of a complex series of igneous and metamorphic rock of approximate intermediate composition.
Regulation of kinetochore–microtubule attachments through homeostatic control during mitosis

Faithful chromosome segregation during mitosis is essential for genome integrity and is mediated by the bi-oriented attachment of replicated chromosomes to spindle microtubules through kinetochores. Errors in kinetochore-microtubule (k-MT) attachment that could cause chromosome mis-segregation are frequent and are corrected by the dynamic turnover of k-MT attachments. Thus, regulating the rate of spindle microtubule attachment and detachment to kinetochores is crucial for mitotic fidelity and is frequently disrupted in cancer cells displaying chromosomal instability. A model based on homeostatic principles involving receptors, a core control network, effectors and feedback control may explain the precise regulation of k-MT attachment stability during mitotic progression to ensure error-free mitosis.
Tubular Carcinoma of the Breast: a Retrospective Analysis and Review of the Literature

Background. The favorable prognosis associated with tubular carcinoma of the breast has led some studies to propose less aggressive treatments for patients with this disease. This study aims to address the extent of therapy needed for tubular patients.
Functional dissection of Pax3 in paraxial mesoderm development and myogenesis

The paired box transcription factor Pax3 is well-known as a major regulator of embryonic myogenesis. Before Pax3 expression becomes restricted to the dermomyotome, this transcription factor is also expressed in the developing somites. The role of Pax3 at this early stage is unclear, in particular because of the scarce frequency of Pax3-positive cells in the early mouse embryo. Inducible gene expression in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) represents an excellent tool to overcome this limitation, since it can provide large quantities of otherwise rare embryonic populations expressing a factor of interest. Here we used engineered mouse ESCs to perform a functional analysis of Pax3 with the aim to identify the molecular determinants involved in the early functions of this transcription factor. We find that Pax3 induction during embryoid body differentiation results in the upregulation of genes expressed in the presomitic and somitic mesoderm. Moreover, we show that paraxial mesoderm induced by transient expression of Pax3 is not irreversibly committed to myogenesis rather requires sustained Pax3 expression. Using a series of deletion mutants of Pax3, which differentially affect its transcriptional activity, we map protein domains necessary for induction of paraxial mesoderm and induction of the myogenic program. The paired, homeo-, and transcriptional activation domains were each required for both processes, however, the paired-c-terminal RED domain showed a paraxial mesoderm-specific activity that was dispensable for myogenesis. These findings demonstrate and provide mechanistic insight into an early role for Pax3 in the generation of paraxial mesoderm.
CdTe Gamma Spectrometers for Nondestructive Analysis of Nuclear Fuels

Gamma-ray spectrometry is widely used for identification and assay of nuclear fuel and scrap materials. CdTe detectors are especially promising for use by nuclear safeguards inspectors because of their small physical size and good energy resolution. A 20 mm3 CdTe detector has been used to determine the isotopic composition of uranium and plutonium samples. The energy resolution is superior to that of NaI so that the major lines of Pu-239 are more easily distinguished from interfering lines of Pu-241 and Am-241.
Toward a designed genetic system with biochemical function: polymerase synthesis of single and multiple size-expanded DNA base pairs.

The development of alternative architectures for genetic information-encoding systems offers the possibility of new biotechnological tools as well as basic insights into the function of the natural system. In order to examine the potential of benzo-expanded DNA (xDNA) to encode and transfer biochemical information, we carried out a study of the processing of single xDNA pairs by DNA Polymerase I Klenow fragment (Kf, an A-family sterically rigid enzyme) and by the Sulfolobus solfataricus polymerase Dpo4 (a flexible Y-family polymerase). Steady-state kinetics were measured and compared for enzymatic synthesis of the four correct xDNA pairs and twelve mismatched pairs, by incorporation of dNTPs opposite single xDNA bases. Results showed that, like Kf, Dpo4 in most cases selected the correctly paired partner for each xDNA base, but with efficiency lowered by the enlarged pair size. We also evaluated kinetics for extension by these polymerases beyond xDNA pairs and mismatches, and for exonuclease editing by the Klenow exo+ polymerase. Interestingly, the two enzymes were markedly different: Dpo4 extended pairs with relatively high efficiencies (within 18–200-fold of natural DNA), whereas Kf essentially failed at extension. The favorable extension by Dpo4 was tested further by stepwise synthesis of up to four successive xDNA pairs on an xDNA template.
Pulmonary artery endothelial cell function in swine pseudomonas sepsis.

A substantial increase in pulmonary vascular resistance is associated with sepsis and its sequelae (sepsis syndrome and septic shock). It is postulated that increased resistance may result from sepsis-induced endothelial cell injury or altered vasoreactivity secondary to pulmonary hypertension. We, therefore, tested the hypothesis that sepsis causes endothelial cell injury and that increased pulmonary pressure alters vascular reactivity. Young swine (15-25 kg) were anesthetized and ventilated. Septic animals received a 1-hr infusion of live Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 11), and the control cohort received 0.9% NaCl (n = 7). All animals were studied for 300 min following the infusion. Postmortem branches of peripheral pulmonary arteries were prepared and tested in a vessel myograph. Ring segments were set to 90% of the circumference the vessels would have at pressures of 20, 30, 40, or 50 mmHg (L90), corresponding to varying pulmonary pressures observed in sepsis. A high dose of potassium was used to obtain maximum possible contraction. Prostaglandin was used to precontract the vessels before testing endothelial cell responses to acetylcholine or bradykinin. Sodium nitroprusside was added at the end of each experiment to obtain maximum possible smooth muscle relaxation. No differences in contraction or relaxation were observed when vessels were set to different pressures (i.e., 20 vs 50 mmHg). Maximum possible contraction to KCl was significantly decreased after 300 min of sepsis compared to control. No differences between groups were found in contractility to prostaglandin. Bradykinin-induced EDRF/NO production, mediated by BK2 receptors, was not altered in Pseudomonas sepsis (97-98% of total relaxation control and 91-95% septic cohort). Response to acetylcholine was significantly decreased after sepsis (89-95% of total relaxation control and 51-61% of septic cohort relaxation). Decreased response to acetylcholine could not be attributed to decreased smooth muscle sensitivity to nitric oxide because the response to bradykinin plus sodium nitroprusside was not altered following sepsis. Vessel reactivity was not altered by increasing pressure settings reflective of changing pulmonary pressure in vivo. These results strongly suggest a sepsis-induced alteration in pulmonary artery endothelial cell receptor sensitivity to acetylcholine, independent of changing pulmonary arterial pressures. This is the first time this decrease has been shown in pseudomonas sepsis.
A clinical study to assess the effectiveness of a nonhormonal vaginal moisturizer in menopausal women

Abstract Objective: To assess the effectiveness of a vaginal moisturizer in menopausal women with external vaginal dryness. We studied a nonhormonal topically applied external vaginal moisturizer in women with external vaginal (vulvar) dryness to see if we could approach the results of a topically applied hormonal product. Methods: The 4-week clinical study included 30 subjects who were randomly divided into two groups to use either one of two topically-applied products for treating vaginal dryness: Vagisil Intimate Moisturizer (VIM) a nonprescription, nonhormonal, water based lotion and Premarin Creme (PC), a prescription hormone cream. VIM was applied twice a day to the external vaginal area. PC was applied once every other day to the internal vaginal area in healthy menopausal patients with vaginal dryness not requiring systemic therapy. The parameters studied were external dryness (0–5), pH, and subject discomfort (0–5). Patients accepted into the study were evaluated for vaginal dryness at baseline determined on a scale of 0–5. An external pH was taken and the patient rated her own discomfort on a scale of 0–5. Patients were seen at 2 and 4 weeks at which time they repeated the discomfort scale and were rated by the investigator for external vaginal dryness and pH. Subjects reported any adverse events. Results: 100% of PC treated patients and 75% of VIM patients decreased their pH to below 5. However, significant improvement was reported by patient and physician evaluation in both treatment groups. Conclusion: The nonhormonal, topical lotion Vagisil Intimate Moisturizer is a viable alternative to hormone cream for treatment of external vaginal dryness.
Predicting Our Impressions on Others Effects of Public Self-Consciousness and Acting, a Self-Monitoring Subscale

High self-monitoring (SM) subjects were hypothesized to be more aware than low SM subjects of their impressions on others. Female subjects were videotaped and then predicted their impressions on anyone who viewed the film. The tapes were evaluated by 10 judges, and their impressions were compared with the subjects' predictions. Results showed that high SM subjects were somewhat better than low SM subjects at predicting their impressions, but the difference between groups was not reliable. A 4-item, factor analytically derived SM subscale labeled Acting and the Public Self-Consciousness Scale did differentiate subjects, such that high scorers on both measures were more accurate than low scorers in predicting their impressions on the judges. In addition, high actors left more favorable impressions on the judges. Implications of the multidimensionality of the SM Scale were discussed.
Effect of Glycerol on Cochlea Microcirculation

Microcirulation in the cochlea of 12 normal anesthetized guinea pigs was investigated after intravenous infusion of 2.4 ml/kg of 40% glycerol. In these experiments endolymphatic PO2, blood pressure. cochlear microphonics, and endocochlear potentials were recorded. Administration of glycerol caused a significant increase in endocochlear PO2 for about 30 minutes. The improvement of hearing in patients with Meniere's disease is thus not only a result of the reduced hydrostatic preswe. as has been demonstrated by others. but may also he the result of vasodilatation. which improves micro-circulation in the cochlea with resultant increases in endocochlear PO2.
The performance of several tests for outliers.

Tests for the presence of outlying observations generally have one of the following aims: (a) to screen data in routine fashion preparatory to analysis (the problem of 'rejection of outliers'); (b) to sound an alarm that outliers are present, thus indicating the need for closer study of the data-generating process; (c) to pin-point observations which may be of special interest just because they are extreme. The proper treatment of outliers has long been a subject for study. Numerous teststatistics have been devised, mostly from intuitive considerations, and their percentage points tabulated, on the assumption of a common normal parent population. A historical survey is unnecessary here especially as a number of review papers have recently appeared (Dixon, 1962; Ferguson, 1961a; see also Anscombe, 1960). In spite of the long literature on the subject much more needs to be known about the performance of the various statistics in use for the non-null situation when outliers are present. Case (a) will not be treated in this paper but has received some attention in the references just cited. In ? 2 we list and discuss several measures of performance, including the power function, which are relevant to cases (b) and (c). These measures are illustrated on four well-known statistics expressible as ratios of the extreme deviate from the sample mean to the population standard deviation cr or estimates thereof. It is assumed that the underlying variation is normal with a single true outlier present which differs in mean from the remainder of the sample. Some of the statistics we consider have been studied under these assumptions by experimental sampling (Dixon, 1950, 1962; Ferguson, 1961 b). A theoretical attempt, unfortunately erroneous, at evaluating the power of the extreme deviate test (cknown) was made by David (1956). A table there given is corrected and extended in ? 3. The simple measure P2 of ? 2 is used in ? 4 for the construction of charts comparing all four statistics. Of particular interest is the comparison of Nair's (1948) (externally) studentized extreme deviate test with the corresponding test in which the estimation of cr is based on (internal) information from the sample at hand as well as on the independent (external) information needed for Nair's statistic.
Pump/Probe Measurements of V-V Transfer in O2 AND H2

We presented new sets of V-V rate coefficients for vibrational levels 0 – 6 in O2 and H2 at 300 K, using a stimulated Raman – spontaneous Raman pump/probe apparatus. For O2 it is found that previously reported semi-classical trajectory calculations of Coleti and Billing underestimate the V-V rate coefficients by approximately one order of magnitude, in agreement with the earlier observations of Diskin. For H2 nonresonant processes, such as , comparison with recalculated semi-
Minicomputer data acquisition system for nuclear physics applications

Abstract The data acquisition system for the Princeton Cyclotron facility based on a Data General Eclipse computer is described. The program ACQUIRE is a highly flexible acquisition code able to support diverse experimental requirements and yet capable of sorting a repetitious pulser in a single ADC at up to 40 kHz without loss.
Verification of protein structures: Patterns of nonbonded atomic interactions

A novel method for differentiating between correctly and incorrectly determined regions of protein structures based on characteristic atomic interaction is described. Different types of atoms are distributed nonrandomly with respect to each other in proteins. Errors in model building lead to more randomized distributions of the different atom types, which can be distinguished from correct distributions by statistical methods. Atoms are classified in one of three categories: carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and oxygen (O). This leads to six different combinations of pairwise noncovalently bonded interactions (CC, CN, CO, NN, NO, and OO). A quadratic error function is used to characterize the set of pairwise interactions from nine-residue sliding windows in a database of 96 reliable protein structures. Regions of candidate protein structures that are mistraced or misregistered can then be identified by analysis of the pattern of nonbonded interactions from each window.
‘Semantics, Applications, and Implementation of Program Generation’

This special issue of the Journal of Functional Programming follows up on the First International ACM SIGPLAN Workshop on the Semantics, Applications, and Implementation of Program Generators (SAIG 2000). The special issue contains eight full length papers, which were received based on an open call for papers. Six of these papers are substantially extended revisions of papers presented at the workshop itself.
Detection of developmental changes in hippocampal EEG during REM sleep through ICA and eigen analysis

ICA and eigen analysis were used in this paper to develop quantitative measures to underscore changes in hippocampal EEGs at subfields CA1 and the dentate gyrus during REM sleep as animal matures. Rats of 15 and 90 days old age were used to compare developmental changes. It was observed that the ratio of eigen values from 15-day old rats are much larger than those of 90-day old rats. There are no noticeable differences when comparing potential crosstalk effects at CA1 and the dentate gyrus. Statistical comparisons were performed between these two age groups.
Ultrastructural and Energy Dispersive Analysis of Inorganic Inclusions in a Muscle Biopsy

A muscle biopsy that, by light microscopy, exhibited mild atrophy consistent with chronic denervating disease was submitted for ultrastructural analysis. Inorganic structures within the tissue were defined by energy dispersive analysis as aluminosilicates, magnesium silicates, and iron deposits. These structures were localized in the interstitial (intercollagenous) area and in high concentrations within degenerated muscle bundles. An alteration of the blood/muscle barrier has obviously occurred; however, the extent to which the end result commonly occurs in humans is unknown. Clarification of the question raised by this observation will have to be derived from animal studies, and clinicians must have an awareness of the need for electron microscopy/energy-dispersive x-ray analysis in muscle biopsies from patients with similar therapeutic backgrounds.
Steady growth in Fall Meeting's scope

The 2011 Fall Meeting exceeded attendance projections, with 12% growth over last year in abstract submissions (20,087) and 9% growth in attendees (20,890). Participants at the meeting represented 96 countries—14 more than last year. With 1620 oral and poster sessions throughout the week—up 11% from last year—attendees had a lot of presentations to choose from! Student participation also increased markedly, by 17%, and the number of companies with booths in the exhibit hall increased by 5%. In addition, a total of 66 sessions and lectures were videotaped (compared to 21 last year) and are now archived to view. Be sure to catch these sessions at http://sites.agu.org/fallmeeting/scientific-program/sessions-on-demand/.
Using Interval Function Approximation to Estimate Uncertainty

Uncertainties in the real world often appear as variabilities of observed data under similar conditions. In this paper, we use interval functions to model uncertainty and function volatility. To estimate such kinds of functions, we propose a practical interval function approximation algorithm. Applying this algorithm, we have studied stock market forecasting with real economic data from 1930-2004. The computational results indicate that interval function approximation can produce better quality forecasts than that obtained with other methods.
Sympathetic Activity and the Underlying Action Potentials in Sympathetic Nerves: A Simulation

Understanding the relationship between activity recorded in sympathetic nerves and the action potentials of the axons that contribute to that activity is important for understanding the processing of sympathetic activity by the central nervous system. Because this relationship cannot be determined experimentally and is difficult to predict analytically, we simulated the summed action potentials of 300 axons. This simulation closely resembled actual sympathetic activity and permitted us to know how many action potentials contributed to each burst of simulated sympathetic activity and the durations and amplitudes of each burst. We used these simulated data to examine a statistical method (cluster analysis) that has been used to identify and quantify bursts of sympathetic activity. Simulation indicated that the integrals of bursts, whether determined directly from the simulation or by integrating bursts detected by cluster analysis, were linearly correlated to the number of action potentials contributing to bursts. The variances of samples of the simulated signal were also linearly correlated to the number of action potentials. The amplitudes of bursts of sympathetic activity were less well correlated to the number of underlying action potentials. A linear relationship existed between the average number of action potentials contributing to simulated bursts and the integral of the amplitude spectra obtained by Fourier transform of the simulated activity. Finally, simulated experiments indicated that relatively brief recordings might be sufficient to detect statistically significant changes in sympathetic activity.
Design and noise analysis of an automotive accelerometer

The MMAS40G is a highly miniaturized accelerometer developed for automotive applications. This two-chip system includes a capacitive micromechanical silicon chip and an associated CMOS integrated circuit for interfacing and signal conditioning each with a die size of 130 mil/sup 2/. The accelerometer requires a 5 V power supply and consumes 3.8 mA of quiescent current. The frequency response is flat from dc to 400 Hz and exhibits a 4-pole rolloff beyond 400 Hz. A noise analysis of the circuitry is presented herein.
Fault Detection in Nonlinear Continuous-Time Systems with Uncertain Parameters

In model-based fault diagnosis for dynamic systems with uncertain parameters, an envelope of all fault-free behaviors can be determined from the model and used as a reference for detecting faults. We demonstrate here a method for generating an envelope that is rigorously guaranteed to be complete, but without significant overestimation. The method is based on an interval approach, but uses Taylor models to reduce the overestimation often associated with interval methods. To speed fault detection, a method that uses bounded-error measurement data and a constraint propagation procedure is proposed for shrinking the envelope. Several fault detection scenarios involving nonlinear, continuous-time systems are used to evaluate this approach. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
State-space synthesis and analysis of log-domain filters

The general state-space synthesis of linear filters is reviewed including the use of linear transformations. Then the use of time-varying nonlinear mappings on the state variables is shown to produce equations for the synthesis of linear, linear companding, and log-domain filters. Formulas are developed which underlie the realization of log-domain filters. Design issues relating to realizability, noise, and nonideal performance are discussed using the state-space mathematical formulation.
A New Framework for Music Education Knowledge and Skill

This study investigates perceptions of secondary school band and orchestra teachers regarding the relative importance of knowledge and skill categories to professional success, using a framework mo...
INFERRING ECOLOGICAL RELATIONSHIPS FROM THE EDGES OF SCATTER DIAGRAMS: COMPARISON OF REGRESSION TECHNIQUES

Scatter diagrams have historically proved useful in the study of associative relationships in ecology. Several important ecological questions involve correlations be- tween variables resulting in polygonal shapes. Two examples that have received consid- erable attention are patterns between prey size and predator size in animal populations and the relationship between animal abundance and body size. Each is typically illustrated using scatter diagrams with upper and lower boundaries of response variables often changing at different rates with changes in the independent variables. Despite recent statistical contri- butions that have stimulated an interest in characterizing the limits of a variable, a consensus on an appropriate methodology to quantify the boundaries of scatter diagrams has not yet been achieved. We tested regression techniques based on least squares and least absolute values models using several independent data sets on prey length and predator length for piscivorous fishes and compared estimated slopes for consistency. Our results indicated that least squares regression techniques were particularly sensitive to outlying y values and irregularities in the distribution of observations, and that they frequently produced incon- sistent estimates of slope for upper and lower bounds. In contrast, quantile regression techniques based on least absolute values models appeared robust to outlying y values and sparseness within data sets, while providing consistent estimates of upper and lower bound slopes. Moreover, the use of quantile regression eliminated the need for an excess of arbitrary decision-making on the part of the investigator. We recommend quantile regression as an improvement to currently available techniques used to examine potential ecological relationships dependent upon quantitative information on the boundaries of polygonal re- lationships.
Peripheral and central chemosensitivity: multiple mechanisms, multiple sites? A workshop summary.

The importance of peripheral chemoreceptors, especially the carotid bodies in control of breathing during hypoxia is being increasingly appreciated. Currently there are two views as to how hypoxia augments carotid body activity1. According to one view, a redox sensitive protein in the glomus cell is the oxygen sensor, and a variety of mitochondria) and non-mitochondrial redox-sensitive proteins have been proposed as potential 02 sensors. The other view assumes that a K+ channel in glomus cell is the primary 02 sensor. The most challenging question is whether transduction involves a “single” or “multiple” 02 sensors’. It is more than likely that multiple sensors are needed for oxygen sensing allowing the carotid body to respond to a wide range of arterial P02’s resulting in a curvilinear stimulus-response curve.
Abstract T P248: Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Induced-Akt Activation Protects Neurons from Ischemic Damage by Increasing Superoxide Dismutase Activity and Expression

Objective: To determine the molecular mechanisms by which leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) protects neurons during permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Hypothesis: LIF protects neurons from ischemic oxidative injury through Akt-mediated increases in superoxide dismutase 3 (SOD3) expression and total SOD activity. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats injected with vehicle (PBS) or LIF (125 μg/kg) were euthanized 24, 48, and 72 h post-MCAO or sham surgery for assessment of SOD activity and SOD3 expression. Rat cortical neurons were subjected to 24 h oxygen glucose deprivation or normoxia following treatment with vehicle , 50, 200, or 1000 ng/mL LIF (n=3 per group). In a third experiment, neurons were treated with vehicle, 50 ng/mL LIF,10 μM Akt inhibitor, or 50 ng/mL LIF+10 μM Akt inhibitor (n=3 per group) prior to oxygen glucose deprivation. Lactate dehydrogenase levels in media were measured to assess neuronal death. We used immunocytochemistry to assess expression of SOD3, phospho-Akt (Ser473), and myeloid zinc finger-1 in neurons. Results: LIF significantly increased brain SOD activity (2.085 ± 0.476 U/mg lysate; n=5) compared to vehicle (0.919 ± 0.285 U/mg lysate; n=7) 72 h post-MCAO (p<0.05). LIF significantly increased SOD3 protein expression in the brain (3.707 ± 0.541 units; n=3) compared to vehicle (1.401 ± 0.825 units; n=3) at 72 h post-MCAO (p<0.05). Co-localization of phospho-Akt and SOD3 occurred 24 h post-MCAO. Additionally, 50 ng/mL LIF (0.789 ± 0.018 U/mL media; n=3) significantly decreased lactate dehydrogenase levels in vitro compared to vehicle (1.000 ± 0.023 U/mL media; n=3) (p<0.0001). Co-incubation of 50/mL ng LIF with 10 μM Akt inhibitor (1.070 ±0.106 U/mL media; n=3) reversed the protective effect of LIF (0.705 ± 0.050 U/mL media; n=3) (p<0.01). Increases in SOD3, phospho-Akt, and myeloid zinc finger-1 staining after oxygen glucose deprivation and LIF were abolished upon Akt inhibition. Conclusion: Our data demonstrates that LIF-mediated protection against ischemia in vivo and in vitro results from Akt-dependent increases in SOD3 expression and SOD activity.
Terminating the Trance

Since most people find a trance experience quite pleasant, an occasional subject may take an extra moment or two to open his eyes at the conclusion of a trance session, much in the manner of a sleeper who does not immediately wish to interrupt his pleasant reverie. Since these subjects will usually show some outward signs of responding to the suggestions to terminate the session, such as a twitching of their eyelids, specific suggestions to accelerate these tendencies may be given as a means of facilitating the return to an everyday mental set: “Your eyelids are beginning to twitch now, as you continue to return from the trance, and soon your eyes will be completely open.” This is usually sufficient to bring about eye opening within a matter of a few seconds. If the subject still does not open his eyes, the suggestor may continue: “All right, you can take a little bit longer if you wish, and soon your eyes will be ready to open. Now your eyes are just about ready to open, and any second now they will be open, almost ready, any second now.”
Poly(Dimethylsiloxane) Elastomers from Aqueous Emulsions: II. Mechanical Properties

Abstract Stress—strain measurements in simple uniaxial extension were used to characterize the mechanical properties of the elastomers prepared from poly(dimethylsilxoxane) emulsions as described in the preceding paper. The studies were carried out on the materials in the unswollen state, after they had received different treatments, specifically no aging, aging in the dry state, or aging in the wet (emulsion) state. Increase in silane crosslinker concentration was found to increase nominal stresses and moduli but to decrease extensibility, two changes that parallel the observed decreases in soluble polymer fractions and extents of equilibrium swelling reported earlier. The energy for rupture (“toughness”) frequently stays roughly constant because the decreased extensibility at least partially offsets the increased stresses. The changes in mechanical properties are due both to increased crosslinking and to reinforcing effects from silica generated from the silane, with the latter effect generally being th...
Ceramers: Hybrid materials incorporating polymeric/oligomeric species with inorganic glasses by a sol-gel process

A sol-gel process has been successfully utilized to produce hybrid materials incorporating polymeric/oligomeric components of polydimethyl siloxane(PDMS) with silicon glasses. All the samples made were transparent and flexible. Dynamic mechanical studies indicate that a portion of the siloxane species is phase-separated while the remainder is well dispersed. The effect of acid content were proven to be significant on the dispersion of the siloxane components and on the structure and properties of final products.
ρ − A 2 Exchange Degeneracy and the Adler Sum Rule

On the basis of $\ensuremath{\rho}\ensuremath{-}{A}_{2}$ exchange degeneracy, the structure functions for virtual Compton scattering with $I=1$ and $C=\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1$ in the $t$ channel are assumed proportional to one another. The constant of proportionality is determined by the threshold relation of Bloom and Gilman. The Adler sum rule ($I=1$, $C=\ensuremath{-}1$) is found to be consistent with the observed behavior of the structure function ($I=1$, $C=+1$) in the scaling region. A simple proportionality relation between $\ensuremath{\nu}({W}_{2}^{\overline{\ensuremath{\nu}}p}\ensuremath{-}{W}_{2}^{\ensuremath{\nu}p})$ and $\ensuremath{\nu}({W}_{2}^{\ensuremath{\gamma}p}\ensuremath{-}{W}_{2}^{\ensuremath{\gamma}n})$ is obtained in the scaling limit.
ONTOGENETIC VARIATION IN PATTERNS OF DEVELOPMENTAL AND FUNCTIONAL INTEGRATION IN SKULLS OF SIGMODON FULVIVENTER.

Patterns of variation and covariation within populations can influence how characters respond to natural selection and random genetic drift and so constrain the ability of natural selection to modify the phenotype. We examined several potential developmental and functional explanations of character covariation throughout ontogeny using known-age samples of the cotton rat (Sigmodon fulviventer) to identify the causes of covariation and to assess the variability of patterns of covariation throughout postnatal growth. Competing developmental and functional models were fit to samples of orofacial and neurocranial measures by confirmatory factor analysis and evaluated for their ability to reconstruct observed variance-covariance matrices. Samples of successive ages were simultaneously fit to a common model to test the hypothesis that the patterns of developmental and functional integration were invariant between ages. Orofacial characters derived from the same branchial-arch primordium covary early in ontogeny. Subsequently, there is a repatterning of integration that may reflect a transition from developmental to functional sources of integration. Neurocranial characters exhibit even more variation in patterns of covariation: initially, characters appear to comprise a single integrated unit; before puberty, they appear to respond to localized bone growth; after puberty, they form separate calvarial and basicranial components. This ontogenetic variation in patterns of covariation suggests that developmental constraints are transient and flexible and that the consequences of selection may depend upon the age at which it acts.
The Role of Shellfish in Prehistoric Economies: A Protein Perspective

In many prehistoric economies where plant foods supplied a majority of caloric requirements, shellfish may have served as a protein staple, at least on a seasonal basis. This hypothesis is supported with an archaeological example from coastal California, experimental data on shellfish protein yields in southeast Alaska, and review of two previous studies of the economics of shellfish exploitation (Osborn 1977; Parmalee and Klippel 1974). Evaluating the dietary role of shellfish from a protein perspective may have a profound effect on the reconstruction of settlement and subsistence strategies for coastal, riverine, or lacustrine economies, including both hunter-gatherers and agriculturalists.