cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A 1.6-mm 2 38-mW 1.5-Gb/s LDPC decoder enabled by refresh-free embedded DRAM

Memory dominates the power consumption of high-throughput LDPC decoders. A 700 MHz refresh-free embedded DRAM (eDRAM) is designed as a low-power memory to retain data for the required access window. 32 1-kb eDRAM arrays are integrated in a 1.6 mm2, 65nm LDPC decoder suitable for IEEE 802.11ad. The LDPC decoder consumes 38 mW for a 1.5 Gb/s throughput at 90 MHz and 10 decoding iterations, and it achieves up to 9 Gb/s at 540 MHz.
Internet protocol header compression technology and its applicability on the tactical edge

The increased usage of net-centric IP applications at the tactical edge has pushed DoD communications systems to maximize bandwidth efficiency amid a limited availability of RF spectrum. One method of increasing bandwidth efficiency (especially with the desire to move to IPv6), is the use of IP header compression (IPHC) to compress headers from the network layer and above into small identifiers before sending to the link layer. Although widely used in cell phone technology, the tactical edge provides some unique challenges to traditional IPHC techniques including highly dynamic links and link conditions due to potential jamming threats and difficult environments, multi-hop scenarios due to lack of infrastructure, and a highly diverse set of radio systems lacking interoperability. In this article, we examine two common IP header compression schemes, Robust Header Compression (RFC 5225) and IP Header Compression (RFC 2507) and one experimental scheme, MANET IP header compression, and identify their current use and applicability in the tactical edge. Furthermore, we identify some challenges in implementing header compression schemes in emerging systems.
From the deal world to the real world: maximizing M&A value after the deal is done

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide the key dos and don'ts when integrating the people, processes, and systems of companies undertaking mergers and/or acquisitions.Design/methodology/approach – The paper provides the current state of M&A integration across industries, integration dynamics and common pitfalls, integration best practices, and a section regarding how to conduct “merger repair” activities in order to correct integration efforts that have gotten off track.Findings – The measurable impacts of well‐conducted M&A integration efforts is presented and discussed.Practical implications – Key implications for management who are pursuing a merger and/or acquisition strategy are demonstrated throughout the key success factors described in this paper.Originality/value – The value to the reader is found in the practical recommendations and tangible actions identified. Likewise, the section describing the need for and how to conduct “merger repair” is new to the literature pertaining to M&A i...
Effect of feeding systems on composition of goat milk and yield of Domiati cheese

Abstract Twenty lactating Alpine goats were randomly allocated to four treatment groups to investigate the effect of pasture feeding with different levels of concentrates on composition of Alpine goat milk and quality of Domiati cheese during lactation. Goats in Group A were confined and fed alfalfa hay with 0.66 kg/day of concentrate mixture per 1.5 kg of milk. Groups B, C and D were rotationally grazed and received 0.66, 0.33, and 0 kg/day of concentrate supplementation, respectively. Milk from each group was processed into Domiati soft cheese twice monthly for a 6-month lactation period. Fresh cheese samples were evaluated for sensory quality. The results obtained from this experiment indicated that goats fed a high concentrate level with pasture grazing (Group B) produced milk with significantly higher contents of fat, protein and total solids and thus had a higher cheese yield than goats kept on pasture alone (Group D) or under a confined feeding system with concentrate and hays (Group A). The change of Domiati cheese yield over lactation followed the same trends of fat, protein and total solids in goat milk. The chemical composition of Alpine goat milk and the yield of Domiati cheese varied significantly during lactation, with high values in the early and the late lactations. Contents of milk fat, protein and total solids were highly positively correlated with Domiati cheese yield. The milk fat content had an adverse effect on the cheese flavor score while the level of total fatty acids in milk was positively correlated with the flavor score. Further research is needed to investigate the economical efficiency of milk production using concentrate supplementation to lactating goats and the processing functionalities of goat milk for cheese manufacturing.
The terrain of evolution of isotropic adiabatic supernova remnants

Models of the evolution of supernova remnants in isotropic media are reviewed and generalized. It is shown that properties of remnants (including cooling and volume-filling aspects) are almost history-independent functions of their instantaneous average density and postshock temperature. These properties, presented as a contour diagram in the density-temperature plane, thus define the territory through which remnant properties evolve. In different models, remnants merely take different paths across the available terrain. For the Milky Way, M101, and the LMC, the portions of this terrain which might actually be sampled by the remnant populations are discussed briefly.
Experimental Geometry Optimization Techniques for Multi-Element Airfoils

Experimental geometry optimization techniques for high-lift airfoils are reported. A modern three-element airfoil model with a remotely actuated flap was designed, tested, and used in low-speed wind-tunnel experiments to investigate optimum flap positioning based on lift. Detailed results for lift coefficient vs flap vertical and horizontal position are presented for two airfoil angles of attack, 8 and 14 deg. Two automated optimization simulations, the method of steepest ascent and a sequential simplex method, were demonstrated using experimental data. A simple online optimizer was successfully demonstrated with the wind-tunnel model that automatically seeks the optimum lift as a function of flap position. Hysteresis in lift as a function of flap position was discovered when tests were conducted using continuous flow conditions
Microstructure and Local Charge Distribution in Hydrogenated Nanocrystalline Silicon under Illumination Studied by Electrostatic Force Microscopy.

Hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon (nc-Si:H) is a promising absorber material for photovoltaic applications. Nanoscale electrical conductivity and overall electronic quality of this material are significantly affected by film microstructure, specifically the density and dimension of grains and grain-boundaries (GB). Local charge distribution at grains and grain/GB interfaces of nc-Si:H was studied by Electrostatic Force Microscopy (EFM) in constant force mode under illumination of white LED. Bias voltage from -3V to +3V was applied on the tip. Scanning Kelvin Force (KFM) images were taken before and after illumination to study the change in surface photovoltage (SP). EFM and KFM analysis were combined with film topography to draw a correlation between surface morphology and nanoscale charge distribution in this material. After illumination, small blister like structures were observed whose size and density increase with time. Raman spectroscopy confirmed these new structures as nanocrystalline silicon. This change was assumed due to relaxation of strained Si-Si bonds as an effect of photo response. Nanocrystalline grain interiors were at lower potential and amorphous grain boundaries were at higher potential for negative bias; it was opposite for positive bias. Change in polarity in bias voltage reversed the polarity of the potential in grains and GBs indicating the dominance of negative type of defects. Further study with current sensing AFM in dark and illumination with variable bias voltages will be able to identify the type and density of defects in grains and grain/GB interfaces.
Electrons in a partially-filled Landau level

Abstract In collaboration with Patrick Lee and Nicholas Read, the author has developed a theory of a two-dimensional electron system in an external magnetic field when the Landau-level filling factor ν is close to 1 2 , which is based on a mathematical transformation to a system of fermions interacting with a Chern-Simons gauge field, such that at ν = 1 2 , the averge effective magnetic field seen by the fermions is zero. If one ignores fluctuations in the gauge field, this implies that for a system with no impurity scattering there should be a well-defined Fermi surface for the fermions. When gauge fluctuations are taken into account we find that there can be infrared-divergent corrections to the quasiparticle propagator, which we interpret as a divergence in the effective mass m ∗ , whose form depends on the nature of the assumed electron-electron interaction v( r → ) . For short range repulsive interactions we find power-law divergences; while for Coulomb interactions we find logarithmic corrections to m ∗ . Nevertheless, we argue that many features of the Fermi surface are likely to exist. In the presence of a weak impurity scattering potential, we predict finite resistivity ϱxx at low temperatures, whose value we estimate. We compute an anomalous contribution to surface acoustic wave propagation in qualitative agreement with recent experiments. The theory also gives a simple explanation for the appearance of the most prominent fractional quantized Hall states at odd-denominator fractions of the form ν = p (2p + 1) , where p is an integer, and we make predictions for the size of the energy gap in these cases.
Fuzzy logic control schemes for static VAR compensator to control system damping using global signal

Abstract This paper presents a simple way of achieving damping of phase angle oscillations and improving transient stability of an interconnected power system network using fuzzy logic. The output of the fuzzy logic controller is fed to an already existing Static VAR compensator (SVC). Different input measurements and their combinations are tested and the effectiveness of the fuzzy controller for achieving stability has been demonstrated on a four-generator, two-area system using simulation studies. The inputs tested are line power, angular speed, machine angle, frequency and combination of these. The paper also compares the damping effectiveness of the fuzzy controlled SVC (FCS) and a conventional power system stabilizer (CPSS).
Cation conduction in the calcium release channel of the cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum under physiological and pathophysiological conditions.

Objective: The aim was to perform a theoretical and experimental study of the possible variations in Ca2+ current through the open cardiac sarcoplasmic reticular Ca2+ release channel under the ionic conditions associated with physiological and pathophysiological states. Methods: The sheep cardiac sarcoplasmic reticular Ca2+ release channel was purified and reconstituted into planar phospholipid bilayers for study under voltage clamp conditions. Single channel current-voltage relationships were measured under putative physiological conditions with 1, 5, and 10 mM intraluminal Ca2+. The mathematics of a computer model based on Eyring rate theory were extended to include the interactions of three permeant ions. Results: A model used previously to describe ionic conduction under simpler ionic conditions was able to predict the interaction of Ca2+, Mg2+, and K+ in the probable physiological range over the voltage range of interest. The predicted Ca2+ current under ionic conditions proposed to occur at the end of diastole is sensitive to relatively small changes in holding potential which suggests the need for adequate charge compensation across the sarcoplasmic reticular membrane. Theoretically, it was predicted that variations in intraluminal Ca2+, such as may occur in Ca2+ overload and other conditions, and variations in cytosolic Mg2+, which may occur in myocardial stunning, may significantly affect Ca2+ flux through the open Ca2+ release channel. Conclusions: Variations in permeant ion concentration such as may occur in physiological and pathophysiological states may significantly affect the quantity of Ca2+ released from the cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum. Cardiovascular Research 1993; 27 :1820-1825
Development of the endolymphatic sac and duct in the Japanese red-bellied newt, Cynops pyrrhogaster

The development and maturation of the endolymphatic sac (ES) and duct (ED) were studied in the newt Cynops pyrrhogaster. The ES first appears as an oval capsule at the dorsal-medial tip of the otic vesicle at stage 39, about 11 days after oviposition. The ES consists of polymorphous epithelial cells with a minimum of cytoplasm. The intercellular space (IS) between the epithelial cells is narrow and has a smooth surface. At stage 44, the size of the ES increases as many vacuoles in the IS become filled. At stage 46, 18 days after oviposition, the ES elongates markedly and a slit-like lumen is found in the ES. The epithelium contains a few cell organelles which are scattered in the cytoplasm. The vacuoles in the IS are fused, which expands the IS. Two days later (stage 48), floccular material (endolymph) is present in the expanded lumen. The IS dilates and has a wide and irregular appearance. At stage 50, approximately 26 days after oviposition, the ES extends and expands significantly and crystals (otoconia) can now be seen in the widened lumen of the ES. The cytoplasm of the cuboidal epithelial cells contains an abundance of vesicles surrounded by ribosomes and Golgi complexes. Intercellular digitations are formed in the expanded IS. At stage 54, the ES forms a large bellow-like pouch. Numerous otoconia accumulate in the lumen. Free floating cells and cell debris can be seen in the lumen at this stage. The epithelial cells contain numerous cytoplasmic organelles which are evenly distributed in the cytoplasm. Granules are found in the apical and lateral cytoplasm. The IS is loose and displays a labyrinthine appearance. The primitive ED first appears as a connection between the ES and the saccule but no lumen is present inside at stage 39. At stage 46, a narrow lumen is formed in the ED, which corresponds to the formation of the ES lumen. At stage 50, as the ED extends, floccular material is seen in the lumen. At stage 54, the ED bears numerous microvilli on its luminal surface. Otoconia and endolymph are present in the ED. Tight junctions between the epithelial cells are formed at stage 46. A fully developed intercellular junctional complex is produced at stage 54. Based on the development of the ES and ED, the maturation of function of the ES and ED are discussed.
The infrared laser atmosphere scattering communication study based on Non-line-of-sight

The communication ways nowadays has highly developed, but because of its using limitation, the application is restricted, especially under the emergency situations. Using infrared laser non line of sight atmosphere scattering can solve the difficult problem effectively, and achieve the function of “minimizing communication support”. The article try to study the 1.06μm laser atmosphere scattering communication, first, we introduce the laser scattering communication technique and principle, and then describe the system composition and work route. In the way of building the laser atmosphere scattering communication system math model, the article analyze the relations between the laser receiving rate and the following elements: laser beam emission angle, receiving field vision, detector sensitivity, emission inclination angle, receiver inclination, atmosphere attenuation, laser launch rate, and communication distance. Based on the simulations, the field experiment showed, that the 1.06μm infrared laser signals transmission has the probability to achieve the long distance atmosphere scattering communication under certain atmosphere conditions.
TerraFly GeoCloud: An Online Spatial Data Analysis and Visualization System

With the exponential growth of the usage of web map services, geo-data analysis has become more and more popular. This article develops an online spatial data analysis and visualization system, TerraFly GeoCloud, which helps end-users visualize and analyze spatial data and share the analysis results. Built on the TerraFly Geo spatial database, TerraFly GeoCloud is an extra layer running upon the TerraFly map and can efficiently support many different visualization functions and spatial data analysis models. Furthermore, users can create unique URLs to visualize and share the analysis results. TerraFly GeoCloud also enables the MapQL technology to customize map visualization using SQL-like statements. The system is available at http://terrafly.fiu.edu/GeoCloud/.
The 5-HT3 receptor agonist 2-methyl-5-HT reduces postsynaptic potentials in rat CA1 pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus in vitro ☆

The effects of the serotonin (5-HT)3 receptor agonist, 2-methyl-5-hydroxytryptamine (2-methyl-5-HT), were studied in CA1 pyramidal cells of the rat hippocampus in vitro using the whole cell gigaseal technique. 2-Methyl-5-HT (10 and 50 μM) did not change significantly the electrophysiologic properties of the cells but reversibly reduced excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials evoked by stimulation of the Schaffer collaterals. The onset and termination of this effect was in the order of minutes and no desensitization was observed. The selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, granisetron, when applied as a pretreatment completely prevented but did not reverse this action when given after administration of 2-methyl-5-HT while the non-specific 5-HT1,2 receptor antagonist, metergoline, was ineffective. These results suggest that the activation of 5-HT3 receptors reduces the efficacy of glutamatergic synaptic transmission in this area.
A trust based Information sharing model (TRUISM) in MANET in the presence of uncertainty

In the absence of centralized trusted authorities (CTA), security is one of the foremost concern in Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANET) as the network is open to attacks and unreliability in the presence of malicious nodes (devices). With increasing demand of interactions among nodes, trust based information sharing needs more stringent rules to ensure security in this pervasive computing scenario. In this paper, we present a novel multi-hop recommendation based trust management scheme (TRUISM). We adapt famous Dempster-Shafer theory that can efficiently combine recommendations from multiple devices in the presence of unreliable and malicious recommendations. A novel recommendation-routing protocol named `buffering on-the-fly' has been introduced to reduce the number of recommendation traffic by storing trust values in intermediate nodes. TRUISM also provides a flexible behavioral model for trust computation where a node can prioritize recommendations based on its requirements. Evaluation result shows that our model not only performs well in the presence of contradictory recommendations but also ensures a faster and scalable trust based information sharing by reducing the overall packet flow in the system.
Heavy quarks and tau

I present some recent experimental results on τ, charm, and bottom physics. CVC test and Michel parameters of the τ; mixing and fDs; and fB, Nc, η'K, ππ and Kπ, Vcb and Vub, lifetime and mixing, and CP violation searches in B decays.
Perturbative corrections to curvature sum rules

Two new sum rules were recently discovered by Le Yaouanc et al. by applying the operator product expansion to the nonforward matrix element of a time-ordered product of b{yields}c currents in the heavy-quark limit of QCD. They lead to the constraints {sigma}{sup 2}>5{rho}{sup 2}/4 and {sigma}{sup 2}>3({rho}{sup 2}){sup 2}/5+4{rho}{sup 2}/5 on the curvature of the B{yields}D{sup (}*{sup )} Isgur-Wise function, both of which imply the absolute lower bound {sigma}{sup 2}>15/16 when combined with the Uraltsev bound {rho}{sup 2}>3/4 on the slope. This paper calculates order {alpha}{sub s} corrections to these bounds, increasing the accuracy of the resultant constraints on the physical form factors. The latter may have implications for the determination of |V{sub cb}| from exclusive semileptonic B meson decays.
WATER-VAPOR TRANSFER OVER THE NORTH AMERICAN CONTINENT

Abstract The transfer of water in vapor form by the atmosphere is presented for the calendar year 1949. Monthly and seasonal patterns of moisture flow are evaluated, and it is shown that there is a close relationship between these patterns and the distribution of precipitation. The importance of eddy systems in effecting moisture transfer is examined, and the meridional flow of vapor over the North American sector is compared with the average for the Northern Hemisphere. Divergence fields of water-vapor transfer are used in conjunction with a mass-continuity equation for water to compute evapotranspiration over the North American continent. Hydrologic data verify these computations to a remarkable degree.
Combined splint-stress breaker removable partial denture

Abstract A method for constructing a removable partial denture, which incorporates broad distribution of stress and the principles of broken stress and functional bases, has been described. This technique minimizes lateral stresses by keeping all forces in a vertical direction and by allowing rotation without torquing of the teeth. Stresses are distributed maximally by (1) employing a rigid splint on the remaining teeth, (2) the use of a rigid major connector on the partial denture framework, (3) lowering the fulcrum of rotation, and (4) extending the denture bases to the physiologic limit.
Tensile behavior of irradiated SiC fibers

Abstract The strength and toughness of continuous fiber reinforced ceramic composites (CFCCs) are highly dependent on the fiber strength distribution. To first order, weaker fibers lead to low strength but higher toughness while stronger fibers lead to high strength composites of relatively low toughness. Toughness is associated with pullout of the fibers from the ceramic matrix. It has been shown previously that both strength and toughness of SiC/Nicalon TM composites are drastically changed following irradiation. Tensile results are presented for low oxygen Nicalon fibers neutron irradiated at damage levels of 0.013 displacements per atom (dpa), 0.13 dpa and 0.32 dpa. Single fibers were tensile tested and analyzed, using Weibull statistics, for mean strength and distribution. Tensile modulus was also determined. Using a diffractometer, the fiber grain size and percent crystallinity were determined. The initial results of these low fluence neutron irradiations exhibit no substantial degradation of the properties investigated. Therefore, continued research at higher doses is recommended.
A new dosing protocol reduces dexmedetomidine-associated hypotension in critically ill surgical patients.

Background Although no ideal sedative exists, dexmedetomidine is unique because it produces sedation and analgesia without decreasing the respiratory drive. Hemodynamic responses to dexmedetomidine are variable and dependent on the patient population. Our initial experience was associated with an unacceptable incidence of hypotension and bradycardia. We evaluated occurrence of hypotension and bradycardia in critically ill surgical patients receiving dexmedetomidine before and after implementation of a dosing protocol.
Factors Affecting Spontaneous Closure of Gastrocutaneous Fistulae After Removal of Gastrostomy Tubes in Children With Intestinal Failure.

Background: Children with intestinal failure (IF) frequently require gastrostomy tubes (GTs) for long-term nutrition support. Risk factors for persistent gastrocutaneous fistulae (GCFs) in pediatric patients with IF are largely unknown but may include underlying nutrition status and duration of indwelling GT. Materials and Methods: Records of patients with IF having undergone GT removal and allowed a trial at spontaneous closure were reviewed. Nonparametric continuous variables were analyzed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Post hoc analysis was performed to identify the optimal threshold of GT duration predicting probability of spontaneous closure identified using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results: Fifty-nine children with IF undergoing GT removal were identified. Spontaneous closure occurred in 36 (61%) sites, while 23 (39%) underwent operative closure at a median 67 days after GT removal. The duration of indwelling GT was significantly shorter in the spontaneous closure group (...
Duck hepatitis B virus is tropic exocrine cells of the pancreas

Abstract Earlier observations had established that duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV) is tropic for pancreatic endocrine cells, including cells localized to islets and to acini. Because cells identifiable as endocrine represented only a minor fraction of the total acinar-associated, infected subpopulation, the possibility was addressed in the present study that this subpupolation also comprises exocrine cells. Fixed preparations of cells from pancreas of congenitally DHBV-infected young ducks were reacted in double immunofluorescence assay with anti-virus serum and either anti-avian pancreatic polypeptide (APP) serum, a probe for a major subclass of acinar-associated endocrine cells, or anti-chymotrypsin serum, a probe for exocrine cells. Approximately 2–5% of the cells in these preparations were viral antigen-positive, comprising a minor fraction positive for APP and a much larger fraction positive for chymotrypsinogen. The detection of the latter establishes that DHBV is tropic for exocrine cells.
Neural network and pattern recognition techniques for characterizing ultrasonic transducers

A system in which transducers are characterized and classified using both pattern recognition and neural network algorithms is presented. Various techniques are investigated, compared, and analyzed. The hardware of the system used in collecting and measuring the characteristics of the transducers, and the parameters used in classifying the transducers into classes are described. The neural network and pattern recognition algorithms used to classify the transducers are introduced. The results of the classification are presented and the various algorithms are analyzed and compared. >
Synthesis of [2,3,4,5,6‐2H5]phenyl glucosinolate

Starting from commercially available [2,3,4,5,6-2H5]benzoic acid, [2,3,4,5,6-2H5]phenyl glucosinolate was synthesized. Under negative-ion electrospray-ionization mass spectrometric conditions, this compound affords a peak at m/z 399. Since this m/z value is not known from the ions derived from natural glucosinolates, the [2,3,4,5,6-2H5]phenyl glucosinolate reported here is useful as an internal standard for the quantification of glucosinolates by negative-ion mass spectrometry (MS) and liquid chromatography (LC)/MS techniques. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fractionation of hyaluronic acid the polydispersity of hyaluronic acid from the bovine vitreous body

The polydispersity of hyaluronic acid from the bovine vitreous body has been demonstrated by the successful separation of the polysaccharide into fractions with molecular weights ranging from 7.7·104 to 1.7·106. The results of light-scattering, ultracentrifuge and viscosity studies have been compared; it has been found that, where discrepancies occur, the limiting viscosity numbers correspond more closely to the molecular weights obtained by light-scattering than to those evaluated from ultracentrifuge data. The extent to which light-scattering and ultracentrifuge molecular weights are at variance appears to be a function of the degree of polydispersity of each individual sample. The relationship between the limiting viscosity number and molecular weight, [η] = 0.036·M0.78 is expected for a coil configuration for hyaluronic acid.
Effects of Aerosol vs IV UT-15 on Prostaglandin H2 Analog-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension in Sheep

minutes after iloprost, PVR and systemic vascular resistance both decreased by approximately 15% and log SDQ increased by 13 14%, Svo2 was not altered, but Pao2 was lowered from 9.2 2.1 to 8.0 1.5 kPa (p 0.06). IV epoprostanol and inhaled iloprost reduce PVR to a similar degree, and both worsen V/Q mismatching. However, during epoprostanol, the increased log SDQ and the higher increase in shunt was compensated by increased Svo2, resulting in a Pao2 that was not significantly changed. After iloprost, the increased log SDQ was not compensated by increased Svo2, and thus Pao2 was more consistently decreased.
Superconducting super collider (SSC) collider dipole magnet (CDM) cold test stand integration and performance

Integration of the General Dynamics specified CDM cold test stand, including 10k ampere DC power supplies, high and low speed data acquisition systems, cryogenic facility, cryogenic distribution and end cans, coil protection system, vacuum leak test equipment and test stand controller is discussed. This paper addresses the lessons learned from the integration of these various equipment items. A description of systems is presented. Definition of the hardware and software systems and the interface to the CDM is included. >
The rat paw formalin test: comparison of noxious agents.

A comparison was made of the spontaneous nociceptive behaviors elicited by s.c. injection into the rat hind paw of the following 8 irritants: acetic acid, carrageenan, formalin, kaolin, platelet-activating factor, mustard oil (given topically), serotonin, and yeast. Two distinct quantifiable behaviors indicative of pain were identified: flinching/shaking of the paw and hindquarters and licking/biting of the injected paw. These behaviors were prolonged and intense after formalin and acetic acid. Formalin-induced flinching was biphasic across time, a finding potentially useful for the study of both acute and tonic pain. Of the remaining test agents, only yeast caused significant spontaneous behavioral activity, which was of low intensity but long duration. Different time-courses for nociceptive behavior and development of edema were demonstrated for formalin, acetic acid and yeast. It is therefore unlikely that these endpoints are causally related. Overall, the present data strongly support the use of formalin as a noxious stimulus in tonic pain research.
Beyond the Ear: Physiological Perspectives on Auditory Rehabilitation

ABSTRACT Despite much research focusing on hearing aid and cochlearimplant devices, their engineering, and how they might be modiﬁed toensurebetteruse,researchstillcannotfullyexplainwhytwoindividualswiththe same conﬁguration of hearing loss demonstrate signiﬁcantly differentimprovements in speech understanding with similar hearing devices. Onepotential source of performance variability might be the central auditorysystem. Here we review the use of speech-evoked cortical potentials toinvestigate issues of performance variability and auditory rehabilitation.Speciﬁcally addressed are issues pertaining to the neural detection of time-varying speech cues, auditory training, and aging. KEYWORDS: Auditory evoked potentials, neural plasticity, hearing aidacclimatization, cochlear implants, auditory training, auditoryrehabilitation Learning Outcomes: As a result of this activity, the reader will be able to (1) describe how hearing involves bothperipheral and central mechanisms and that hearing loss (as well as the reintroduction of sound) alters centralauditory function, and (2) explain that the aforementioned experience-related biological changes probablycontribute to a person’s ability to make use of a hearing aid or cochlear implant.
Postnatal development of catecholamine inputs to the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus in rats

Adrenergic and noradrenergic neural projections to the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) contribute importantly to viscerosensory modulation of pituitary hormone secretion. Immaturity of ascending catecholamine pathways may partially underlie the documented hyporesponsiveness of PVN neurosecretory cells to certain interoceptive stimuli in rats during the first few weeks of postnatal development. To explore this possibility, the present study compared the distribution and number of dopamine-β-hydroxylase (DBH)- and phenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase (PNMT)-positive neurons projecting to the PVN in newborn and adult rats. In addition, a quantitative analysis of DBH- and PNMT-immunoreactive fibers in the medial parvocellular subnucleus, dorsal division (PVNmpd) and posterior magnocellular subnucleus, lateral division (PVNpml) was performed in adult rats and in developing rats on postnatal day (P)1, P7, P14, and P21. The numbers of PVN-projecting neurons in the A1, C1, A2/C2, C3, or A6 catecholamine cell groups were similar in newborn and adult rats, as were the proportions of PVN-projecting neurons in each region that were PNMT-positive. However, fewer PVN-projecting neurons in the C1 and C3 regions expressed DBH immunolabeling in newborn rats compared to adults. DBH immunolabeling increased progressively in the PVNmpd and PVNpml between postnatal days P1 and P21, when adult-like levels were achieved. Conversely, PNMT immunolabeling in the same PVN subdivisions was most dense at P1, gradually decreasing to adult-like levels by P21. These dynamic developmental changes in catecholamine synthetic enzyme immunolabeling densities in the PVN may reflect functional changes in noradrenergic and adrenergic signaling capacity in rats during the first few weeks of postnatal development. J. Comp. Neurol. 438:411–422, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Inhibition of protein kinase C by alcohols and anaesthetics

DESPITE almost a century of research, the mechanism of anaesthesia remains obscure and there is still no agreement on the location of the site(s) of action1–7. Because the potencies of general anaesthetics increase in proportion to their solubility in olive oil, this led to a consensus that the site is within the cell membrane8–10. This led to theories that lipid bilayer perturbation was the primary event, which was then transmitted to a membrane protein11. But at the concentrations used clinically, such perturbations are small3. A plausible site would be in or on ion channels at the synapse, where a number of modulatory effects have been described6. A possible location for such a site would be at the protein–lipid interface5,12,13. We report here that anaesthetics inhibit protein kinase C, a key component in signal transduction. The potency is a linear function of the octanol–water partition coefficient (the Meyer–Overton rule of anaesthesia). The effect was obtained in a lipid-free assay, implicating a hydrophobic site in the protein, supporting the contention that a (membrane) protein may be a target for anaesthetic interactions14–17. In a lipid-dependent assay, a potential role of lipids in the protein-site model was demonstrated. The inhibition was absent in the isolated catalytic domain, suggesting that the site of inhibition is on the regulatory subunit, which is unique to protein kinase C.
Ecosystem function differs between Old World bluestem invaded and native coastal prairie in South Texas

Exotic Old World bluestem grasses (OWBG) are invading prairie and savanna ecosystems of the southern Great Plains USA, yet little is known about whether or how this invasion alters ecosystem processes. We conducted a study in a south Texas coastal prairie to address the following questions: (1) Does litter production, quality, decomposition rates, and soil nutrient dynamics differ significantly between areas dominated by OWBG versus native prairie?; and, (2) Does soil texture influence the effects of OWBG dominance on ecosystem processes? Ecosystem parameters were measured in adjacent patches of native and OWBG invaded coastal prairie on two soil textures, sandy loam and clay. Our findings indicate that ecosystem function differed between OWBG and native prairie dominated areas, but these results were not consistent across soil textures. On sandy loam soil, the soil microclimate differed substantially between OWBG and native prairie, and areas dominated by OWBG had higher aboveground plant production, soil organic C and total N pools, soil inorganic N concentrations and mineralization rates, and litter decomposition rates than native prairie. In contrast, on clay soils, these ecosystem properties often varied little between OWBG and native prairie. Dominance of OWBG appears to have altered native ecosystem function; yet, in this study the directionality and extent of these OWBG effects were strongly soil texture dependent, suggesting that local edaphic factors will likely interact with OWBG dominance in determining ecosystem properties. Consideration of these results may be valuable for managing OWBG such that control or restoration efforts on coarse-textured soils may be given priority over finer-textured soils.
Metabolism of Androsterone and 5α-Androstane-3α,17β-Diol in Human Lung Tissue and in Pulmonary Endothelial Cells in Culture*

The metabolism of [3H]androsterone and [3H] 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha,17 beta-diol ( [3H] 3 alpha-diol) was studied in slices of human lung tissue and cultures of human pulmonary artery endothelial cells. Lung tissue metabolized [3H]androsterone (0.25 microM) to 5 alpha-androstane-3,17-dione (30.3 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue h-1), isoandrosterone (0.7 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue h-1), 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (5 alpha-DHT; 0.1 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue h-1), 3 alpha-diol (0.1 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue h-1), and two polar metabolites. Pulmonary arterial endothelial cells produced the same metabolites of [3H]androsterone (0.083 microM), with the exception of the polar compounds [5 alpha-androstane-3,17-dione (1.3 pmol mg-1 protein h-1), isoandrosterone (0.1 pmol mg-1 protein h-1), 5 alpha-DHT (0.2 pmol mg-1 protein h-1), and 3 alpha-diol (0.2 pmol mg-1 protein h-1)]. Thus, the principal metabolite of [3H]androsterone in both lung tissue and endothelial cells was 5 alpha-androstane-3,17-dione. Human lung tissue metabolized [3H]3 alpha-diol (0.28 microM) to 5 alpha-DHT (8.8 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue h-1), androsterone (2.2 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue h-1), 5 alpha-androstane-3,17-dione (0.8 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue h-1), isoandrosterone (0.1 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue h-1), and four polar metabolites (0.2 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue h-1). 5 alpha-DHT was the principal metabolite of [3H]3 alpha-diol within the first hour of incubation, but the concentration of this androgen declined thereafter to 3.6 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue after 4 h of incubation. This decline was correlated with increased 5 alpha-androstane-3,17-dione synthesis (6.7 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue 4 h-1). Androsterone formation from [3H]3 alpha-diol, however, was linear with time of incubation for 4 h (8.9 pmol 100 mg-1 tissue 4 h-1). The formation of these products demonstrates that the principal 5 alpha-reduced-C19-steroid-metabolizing enzymes in human lung are 3 alpha-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase.
A Majority consensus approach to concurrency control for multiple copy databases

A “majority consensus” algorithm which represents a new solution to the update synchronization problem for multiple copy databases is presented. The algorithm embodies distributed control and can function effectively in the presence of communication and database site outages. The correctness of the algorithm is demonstrated and the cost of using it is analyzed. Several examples that illustrate aspects of the algorithm operation are included in the Appendix.
Online Health Monitoring in Digitally Controlled Power Converters

Spacecraft power systems and other mission- critical applications require robust power delivery systems. This paper focuses on two aspects of power converter health monitoring: detecting and analyzing loss-related and frequency response-related changes. Two hardware-efficient algorithms are discussed that can be implemented without any additional sensing points other than those required for operation of the converter and with minimal additional digital hardware. It is shown that available converter operating information can be processed to detect a significant (e.g. 2x) change in the power MOSFET RON- In addition, a system identification-based approach with an additional digital pre-fllter is used to extract an accurate and useful frequency response of the converter despite large quantization noise caused by a low-resolution A/D converter. It is shown that this information can be used to accurately monitor the stability margins of the converter. The techniques are verified experimentally on a 90 W 50 V-15 V forward converter with FPGA control.
EXPLORING CHARACTERISTICS OF SOCIAL CLASSIFICATION

Three empirical studies on characteristics of social classification are reported in this paper. The first study compared social tags with controlled vocabularies and title-based automatic indexing and found little overlaps among the three indexing methods. The second study investigated how well tags could be categorized to improve effectiveness of searching and browsing. The third study explored factors and radios that had the most significant impact on tag convergence. Finding of the three studies will help to identify characteristics of those tagging terms that are content-rich and that can be used to increase effectiveness of tagging, searching and browsing.
Plasma exchange as a therapeutic option in patients with neurologic symptoms due to antibodies to voltage-gated potassium channels: A report of five cases and review of the literature

Antibodies to voltage-gated potassium channels (VGKC) are associated with acquired neuromyotonia, limbic encephalitis, and Morvan's syndrome. The antibodies are often not associated with malignancy and have shown good clinical response to immunomodulatory therapies. A record review identified five patients with laboratory evidence of antibodies to VGKC who underwent plasma exchange (PE) as part of their immunosuppressive therapy for neurologic disease. Four of the patients presented with limbic encephalitis and one with neuromyotonia. Symptoms included memory impairment, seizures, and personality changes. All PE were 1.0 volume and were performed on an every-other-day schedule. Replacement fluid was 5% normal serum albumin except when a bleeding risk was identified and then fresh frozen plasma was added. Four of five patients were also receiving concurrent immunosuppressive therapy including corticosteroids. Of the five patients treated with PE, three had sustained improvement in symptoms for 6-17 months following PE. Two patients did not have signs of improvement at a limited follow-up. One patient had recurrence of her symptoms, which responded to additional PE. These cases, as well as the reports in the literature, suggest that PE could be a useful adjunctive therapy for patients with VGKC antibodies and neurologic symptoms.
Tradeoff between stability and maneuverability during whole-body movements.

Background: Understanding how stability and/or maneuverability affects motor control strategies can provide insight on moving about safely in an unpredictable world. Stability in human movement has been well-studied while maneuverability has not. Further, a tradeoff between stability and maneuverability during movement seems apparent, yet has not been quantified. We proposed that greater maneuverability, the ability to rapidly and purposefully change movement direction and speed, is beneficial in uncertain environments. We also hypothesized that gaining maneuverability comes at the expense of stability and perhaps also corresponds with decreased muscle coactivation. Materials and Methods: We used a goal-directed forward lean movement task that integrated both stability and maneuverability. Subjects (n=11) used their center of pressure to control a cursor on a computer monitor to reach a target. We added task uncertainty by shifting the target anterior-posterior position mid-movement. We used a balance board with a narrow beam that reduced the base of support in the medio-lateral direction and defined stability as the probability that subjects could keep the balance board level during the task. Results: During the uncertainty condition, subjects were able to change direction of their anterior-posterior center of pressure more rapidly, indicating that subjects were more maneuverable. Furthermore, medio-lateral center of pressure excursions also approached the edges of the beam and reduced stability margins, implying that subjects were less stable (i.e. less able to keep the board level). On the narrow beam board, subjects increased muscle coactivation of lateral muscle pairs and had greater muscle activity in the left leg. However, there were no statistically significant differences in muscle activity amplitudes or coactivation with uncertainty. Conclusions/Significance: These results demonstrate that there is a tradeoff between stability and maneuverability during a goal-directed whole-body movement. Tasks with added uncertainty could help individuals learn to be more maneuverable yet sufficiently stable.
A personal reflection on educating for meaning

Teachers are gifted with the responsibility of helping their students, their colleagues, and themselves find meaning in their lives. Robert Nash offers his gift of reflection on how best to accomplish this most important work.
Using data to attribute episodes of warming and cooling in instrumental records

The observed global-warming rate has been nonuniform, and the cause of each episode of slowing in the expected warming rate is the subject of intense debate. To explain this, nonrecurrent events have commonly been invoked for each episode separately. After reviewing evidence in both the latest global data (HadCRUT4) and the longest instrumental record, Central England Temperature, a revised picture is emerging that gives a consistent attribution for each multidecadal episode of warming and cooling in recent history, and suggests that the anthropogenic global warming trends might have been overestimated by a factor of two in the second half of the 20th century. A recurrent multidecadal oscillation is found to extend to the preindustrial era in the 353-y Central England Temperature and is likely an internal variability related to the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), possibly caused by the thermohaline circulation variability. The perspective of a long record helps in quantifying the contribution from internal variability, especially one with a period so long that it is often confused with secular trends in shorter records. Solar contribution is found to be minimal for the second half of the 20th century and less than 10% for the first half. The underlying net anthropogenic warming rate in the industrial era is found to have been steady since 1910 at 0.07–0.08 °C/decade, with superimposed AMO-related ups and downs that included the early 20th century warming, the cooling of the 1960s and 1970s, the accelerated warming of the 1980s and 1990s, and the recent slowing of the warming rates. Quantitatively, the recurrent multidecadal internal variability, often underestimated in attribution studies, accounts for 40% of the observed recent 50-y warming trend.
Relative Abundance of Stenohaline and Euryhaline Oyster Reef Crab Populations as a Tool for Managing Freshwater Inflow to Estuaries

Abstract The timing and quantity of fresh water flowing into the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, southwest Florida, have been altered by channelization of natural watershed sheetflow and increases in freshwater storage for aquifer recharge and irrigation. As part of the ongoing Everglades Restoration Initiative, the Southern Golden Gate Estates (SGGE) Restoration and Henderson Creek Freshwater Inflow Restoration Projects are opportunities to re-establish watershed sheetflow and restore the natural timing and quantity of fresh water flowing into the Reserve's estuaries. For 3 years, data loggers have been used to record water quality at continuous half-hour intervals, and Hester-Dendy artificial substrates have been used to sample oyster reef crab populations each month in four estuaries managed by the Reserve. These four estuaries differ in their seasonal and annual salinity patterns because of varying degrees of anthropogenically altered freshwater inflow. Our observations indicate that ...