cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
PHOTOCHEMISTRY OF TETRACENE ADSORBED ON DRY SILICA : PRODUCTS AND MECHANISM

The photochemistry of tetracene (1) has been studied on dry silica at very low surface coverages (less than 3% of a monolayer). Irradiation of degassed samples of 1 adsorbed on silica surface proceeds very slowly to produce both syn (2) and anti (3) dimers. Under aerated conditions photolysis of 1 at surface coverages <1% of a monolayer gives mainly tetracene-5, 12-endoperoxide (4) and very little dimer. The endoperoxide slowly decomposes to form 5, 12-tetracenequinone (5), 5, 12-dihydroxytetracene (6) and 5, 12-dihydro-5, 12-dihydroxytetracene (7), respectively. As the surface coverage is increased above 1% of a monolayer, dimerization becomes more pronounced as a result of pairing and/or aggregation. The photooxidation process is mediated by the addition of singlet molecular oxygen to 1. Tetracene also undergoes a dark oxidation reaction on the silica surface to give 5 (major), 6 and 7 (minors) as products. The first-order rate constant for this Lewis acid-catalyzed oxidation was determined to be 1 × 105 S−1.
Regulation of glucagon secretion in normal and diabetic human islets by γ-hydroxybutyrate and glycine.

Paracrine signaling between pancreatic islet β-cells and α-cells has been proposed to play a role in regulating glucagon responses to elevated glucose and hypoglycemia. To examine this possibility in human islets, we used a metabolomic approach to trace the responses of amino acids and other potential neurotransmitters to stimulation with [U-13C]glucose in both normal individuals and type 2 diabetics. Islets from type 2 diabetics uniformly showed decreased glucose stimulation of insulin secretion and respiratory rate but demonstrated two different patterns of glucagon responses to glucose: one group responded normally to suppression of glucagon by glucose, but the second group was non-responsive. The non-responsive group showed evidence of suppressed islet GABA levels and of GABA shunt activity. In further studies with normal human islets, we found that γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a potent inhibitory neurotransmitter, is generated in β-cells by an extension of the GABA shunt during glucose stimulation and interacts with α-cell GHB receptors, thus mediating the suppressive effect of glucose on glucagon release. We also identified glycine, acting via α-cell glycine receptors, as the predominant amino acid stimulator of glucagon release. The results suggest that glycine and GHB provide a counterbalancing receptor-based mechanism for controlling α-cell secretory responses to metabolic fuels.
CT imaging of complications of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation

The complication rate following radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation is low (<5%). Complications include pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, pulmonary vein stenosis, oesophageal ulceration or perforation, atrio-oesophageal fistula formation, stroke/transient ischaemic attack, phrenic nerve injury, haematoma at the puncture site, and femoral arteriovenous fistula. Among available imaging tools, computed tomography (CT) can be very useful in diagnosing complications of the procedure, particularly in the subacute and delayed stages after ablation. This review illustrates CT imaging of several of the common and uncommon complications of radiofrequency catheter ablation.
Environmental correlates of vocal communication of wild pygmy marmosets, Cebuella pygmaea

Abstract We quantified the acoustic characteristics of the habitats of two wild populations of pygmy marmosets, in Amazonian Ecuador to evaluate their effects on vocal signal structure. We obtained measures of ambient noise, sound attenuation and reverberation through recordings and broadcasts of exemplars of two short-range vocalizations and one long-range vocalization of the marmosets. Ambient noise levels differed among habitats. The calls of pygmy marmosets had frequencies that coincided with relatively quiet regions of the ambient noise spectra of the habitats. The three vocalization types were degraded similarly in all habitats. The two short-range signals, with a pulsatile structure, were more affected by reverberation than was the long-range, less pulsatile vocalization. This degradation could be used by the marmosets to estimate the distance of the caller animals. We obtained data on context of vocalizations from six groups of pygmy marmosets, three from each population, in both the dry and rainy seasons. The use of Trills, J calls and Long calls was related to the distance between the calling animal and the potential receivers suggesting that marmosets are using the calls in a way appropriate to the effects of habitat acoustics. Copyright 2002 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved .
On the nature of the quasi-stellar sources.

Compton process argument for quasar relative nearness to our Galaxy and contrast between Compton and synchrotron radiation scattering effects
Gastrointestinal complications after coronary artery bypass grafting: a national study of morbidity and mortality predictors.

Background Previous single-institution studies have documented a 0.6% to 2.4% incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) complications after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), with an associated 14% to 63% mortality rate. To better determine the incidence and impact of GI complications after CABG, national outcomes for CABG were examined from 1998 to 2002. Study Design The Nationwide Inpatient Sample was queried for all patients undergoing CABG (ICD9 procedure codes 36.10 to 36.16). Two cohorts were compared: CABGs with and without GI complications. Both demographic and outcomes variables were compared by either t -test or chi-square analysis. Logistic regression analyses indicated potential predictors of CABG inpatient mortality and GI complications after CABG. Results The incidence of GI complications among 2.7 million CABGs identified was 4.1%. Total hospital length of stay (19.3 versus 8.8 days) and inpatient mortality (12.0% versus 2.5%, both p Conclusions This national population-based study indicates that GI complications after CABG occur at a higher rate than previously described, leading to increased hospital length of stay and mortality.
Membrane Calcium Activation in Excitation-Contraction Coupling

Depolarization thresholds for eliciting tension and Ca electrogenesis have been compared in isolated crayfish muscle fibers. Just-detectable tensions and Ca spikes induced after treatment with procaine were elicited with intracellularly applied depolarizing currents of fixed duration. Both thresholds were found to increase in a similar manner in fibers exposed to increased concentrations of Ca in the bathing solution or addition of other divalent cations (Mg, Mn, Ni). However, antagonistic effects between divalent cations were also demonstrated. Substitution of increasing amounts of NaSCN for NaCl in the standard saline produced a progressive decrease in both thresholds. The correlation in the change in thresholds for the two processes supports the hypothesis that a change in membrane Ca conductance is an integral step in excitation-contraction coupling.
Mechanical land clearing to promote establishment of coastal sandplain grassland and shrubland communities

Author Posting. © The Author(s), 2005. This is the author's version of the work. It is posted here by permission of Blackwell Publishing for personal use, not for redistribution. The definitive version was published in Restoration Ecology 14 (2006): 220-232, doi:10.1111/j.1526-100X.2006.00124.x.
Geographic Range Fragmentation and Abundance in Neotropical Migratory Birds

Populations of neotropical migrant landbirds have experienced significant declines in recent years. We investigated potential consequences of these declines by examining the relationship between abundance and fragmentation of geographic ranges of species on the North American breeding grounds. We estimated areograpbic fragmentation using the box dimension of a species’ geographic range and demographic fragmentation using the fractal dimension of the semivariance function calculated from samples of population abundance across species’ geographic ranges. We found a negative relationship between average abundance and demographic fragmentation for neotropical migrants, but not for residents. We also showed that demographic fragmentation and areographic fragmentation are inversely related for residents, but not for neotropical migrants. These results imply that neotropical migrants may be more sensitive to extinction than are residents. Las poblaciones de pajaros terrestres migratorios neotropicales han experimentado una declinacion significativa en anos recientes. Nosotros investigamos las consecuencias potenciales de esta declinacion examinando la relacion entre abundancia y fragmentacion del rango geografico de especies criadas en Norte America. Nosotros estimamos la fragmentacion areografica utilizando el metodo de “box dimension” del rango geografico de especies y la fragmentacion demografica utilizando dimension fractal de la funcion de semivarianza calculada a partir de las muestras de abundancia de poblacion a traves del rango geografico de especies. Nosotros encontramos que existe una relacion negativa entre la abundancia promedio y la fragmentacion demografica para los migrantes neotropicales, pero no para los residentes. Nosotros tambien demostramos que la fragmentacion demografica y la fragmentacion areografica estan inversamente relacionadas para los residentes, pero no para los migrantes neotropicales. Estos resultados implican que los migrantes neotropicales pueden ser mas susceptibles a la extincion que los residentes.
Contribution of glutathione and metallothioneins to protection against copper toxicity and redox cycling : Quantitative analysis using MT+/+ and MT-/- mouse lung fibroblast cells

Glutathione (GSH) and metallothioneins (MT) are believed to play important roles in protecting cells against high copper (Cu) concentrations. Little is known, however, about their specific intracellular interactions and the coordination of protective functions. We investigated contributions of GSH and MT to protection against Cu toxicity in fibroblasts derived from wild-type (MT+/+) and knockout (MT-/-) mice that were challenged with cupric nitrilotriacetate (Cu-NTA). Endogenous levels of GSH and MT were manipulated using an inhibitor of gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase, buthionine sulfoximine (BSO, 5 microM), as GSH depletor and ZnCl(2) (100 microM) as inducer of MT expression. BSO pretreatment markedly decreased cellular GSH levels in MT+/+ and MT-/- cells, by 65% and 70%, respectively, which resulted in Cu cytotoxicity accompanied by its elevated redox-cycling activity and enhanced Cu-induced membrane phospholipid peroxidation. BSO-pretreated MT-/- cells were markedly more sensitive to Cu despite the fact that the residual levels of GSH were similar in both BSO-pretreated MT+/+ and MT-/- cells. Zn pretreatment resulted in more than 10-fold induction of MT in MT+/+ cells but not in MT-/- cells. Accordingly, Zn pretreatment afforded significant protection of MT+/+ cells against Cu cytotoxicity, likely associated with MT-dependent suppression of Cu redox-cycling activity and phospholipid peroxidation, but it exerted no protection in MT-/- cells (as compared to naive cells). To determine whether MT functions specifically in Cu regulation or rather acts as a nonspecific Cu-binding cysteine-rich nucleophile, experiments were performed using MT+/+ and MT-/- cells pretreated with both BSO and Zn. BSO pretreatment did not affect Zn-induced MT expression in MT+/+ cells. As compared with BSO pretreatment alone, exposure to Cu of MT+/+ cells after Zn/BSO pretreatment resulted in the following: (i) a significantly higher viability; (ii) attenuated Cu-dependent redox-cycling activity; and (iii) a lower level of phospholipid peroxidation. In BSO/Zn-pretreated MT-/- cells, the redox-cycling activity of Cu and the level of phospholipid peroxidation remained remarkably higher than in naive cells and were not significantly different from those in cells pretreated with BSO alone. Cu-induced toxicity was remarkably higher in BSO/Zn-pretreated MT-/- cells than in naive or Zn-pretreated cells, although slightly lower than in the MT-/- cells pretreated with BSO alone.
Large-scale expression analysis reveals distinct microRNA profiles at different stages of human neurodevelopment.

Background MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs predicted to regulate one third of protein coding genes via mRNA targeting. In conjunction with key transcription factors, such as the repressor REST (RE1 silencing transcription factor), miRNAs play crucial roles in neurogenesis, which requires a highly orchestrated program of gene expression to ensure the appropriate development and function of diverse neural cell types. Whilst previous studies have highlighted select groups of miRNAs during neural development, there remains a need for amenable models in which miRNA expression and function can be analyzed over the duration of neurogenesis. Principal Findings We performed large-scale expression profiling of miRNAs in human NTera2/D1 (NT2) cells during retinoic acid (RA)-induced transition from progenitors to fully differentiated neural phenotypes. Our results revealed dynamic changes of miRNA patterns, resulting in distinct miRNA subsets that could be linked to specific neurodevelopmental stages. Moreover, the cell-type specific miRNA subsets were very similar in NT2-derived differentiated cells and human primary neurons and astrocytes. Further analysis identified miRNAs as putative regulators of REST, as well as candidate miRNAs targeted by REST. Finally, we confirmed the existence of two predicted miRNAs; pred-MIR191 and pred-MIR222 associated with SLAIN1 and FOXP2, respectively, and provided some evidence of their potential co-regulation. Conclusions In the present study, we demonstrate that regulation of miRNAs occurs in precise patterns indicative of their roles in cell fate commitment, progenitor expansion and differentiation into neurons and glia. Furthermore, the similarity between our NT2 system and primary human cells suggests their roles in molecular pathways critical for human in vivo neurogenesis.
Regression rates study of mixed hybrid propellants

The low regression rates of classic hybrid rocket fuels lead to large internal ports that limit potential applications. This experimental study investigated the increase in regression rate that results from adding a solid oxidizer and a catalyst to a hybrid fuel grain. The configuration is named a "mixed hybrid" hybrid to signify solid oxidizer and catalyst in the grain. A design of experiments approach guided fuel formulation to systematically control levels of ammonium perehlorate from 25% to 30%, ferric oxide from 0 to 5%, and hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene from 70% to 75%. The 1.5-in. diam. port, 12-in. long center perforated grains were burned with gaseous oxygen at pressure levels from 150 to 550 psig and port flux levels from 0.1 to 0.4 lbm/s-in. 2 . The results show that the mixed hybrid propellants burn as a function of both pressure and mass flux. A grain formulation having 27.5 % ammonium perchlorate and 2.5% ferric oxide provided the maximum burning rate augmentation (447%) among the formulations tested.
Intrafollicular Anesthesia for the Removal of Impacted Teeth

Intrafollicular anesthesia is a method of obtaining rapid and complete local anesthesia for the surgical removal of impacted teeth. When an intrafollicular anesthetic technique is used, a general anesthetic and IV sedations (narcotic or barbiturate) are not needed. This technique also provides for an atmosphere without the stress associated with a patient in pain or the great responsibility associated with general anesthesia in the office. Intrafollicular anesthesia involves much less risk to the patient than general anesthesia or IV sedation (narcotic or barbiturate). The use of this technique aids in keeping scheduling on time by eliminating the need to reinject patients. Therefore, once the intrafollicular technique is mastered, the practitioner will begin to realize benefits other than a painfree procedure.
A Longitudinal Study of Ego Identity Development at a Liberal Arts College.

Ego identity development in the areas of occupational choice, religion, and political ideology was studied using Marcia's categorization system. The results indicated a significant increase in the frequency of the identity achiever status for occupational choice and corresponding decreases in the frequency of the moratorium and identity diffusion statuses. A significant decrease in the frequency of foreclosures on religion was also found. In those instances where students underwent an identity crisis, the probability of resolving it successfully was very high. High scores on the Cultural Sophistication scale of the College Student Questionnaire-Part 1 were found to be associated with presence in the identity achievement status. For students not in the achiever status as freshmen, an interest in various literary and art forms was predictive of becoming an achiever while in college.
Glycoprotein hormone GalNAc- 4-sulphotransferase

The glycoprotein hormones lutropin (LH) and thyrotropin and a limited number of additional glycoproteins bear carbohydrate structures terminating with the unique sequence SO(4)-4-GalNAcbeta1,4GlcNAcbeta that has been conserved in the glycoprotein hormones of all vertebrate species. Synthesis of these structures is mediated by a protein-specific beta1,4GalNAc-transferase and a GalNAc-4-sulphotransferase (GalNAc-4-ST1). GalNAc-4-ST1 is a member of a family of sulphotransferases that includes HNK-1 sulphotransferase, chondroitin-4-sulphotransferases-1-3 and dermatan-4-sulphotransferase-1. With the exception of HNK-1-ST, these sulphotransferases add sulphate to the C-4 hydroxy group of either terminal or non-terminal beta1,4-linked GalNAc. GalNAc-4-ST1 is most highly expressed in pituitary, cerebellum and other regions of the brain. The terminal GalNAcSO(4) on LH is recognized by the cysteine-rich domain of the mannose/GalNAc-4-SO(4) receptor located in hepatic endothelial cells. Each cysteine-rich domain binds a single terminal GalNAc-4-SO(4), and the receptor must form non-covalently associated homodimers in order to simultaneously engage two GalNAc-4-SO(4) moieties on separate oligosaccharides with sufficient affinity to form stable complexes. The receptor mediates the clearance of LH from the blood. This clearance, in conjunction with the stimulated release of hormone from dense core granules in pituitary gonadotroph cells, is required to produce the episodic rise and fall in LH levels needed for optimal oestrogen production during the implantation of embryos in the uterus.
The effect of si additions on Ω precipitation in Al-Cu-Mg-(Ag) alloys

Abstract A series of Al–Cu–Mg–(Ag)–Si alloys were prepared to investigate the role of Si additions on formation. Trace amounts of Si were found to quell precipitation, indicating that it is necessary to overcome a critical Mg/Si ratio for nucleation in this alloy system, regardless of the presence of Ag.
Key management requirements for Positive Train Control communications security

Positive Train Control (PTC) is an electronic system that enforces train separation, speed enforcement, roadway worker protection and a host of other activities essential to operate railroads safety and efficiently that requires wireless communication to exchange control and sensory information between mobile locomotive and static control centers and wayside devices. This requires communication security ensuring the freshness, confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of the information. For that purpose, we propose a cryptography based key management system (KMS). This paper outlines the requirements for a KMS, provides a proposed key distribution method, and highlights several significant implementation tradeoffs.
Drug‐induced alterations of tumor necrosis factor‐mediated cytotoxicity: Discrimination of early versus late stage action

The killing of L-M cells by murine tumor necrosis factor (mTNF) was investigated by a combination of drug, antiserum neutralization, and kinetic studies. Kinetic studies with 125I-mTNF showed that the bulk of association of ligand with L-M cells peaked within 2 hr and the ligand was not degraded. Cell surface receptors were depleted (down regulated) by 6 hr when death commenced. The off-rates of acid dissociabie (surface bound) and acid-indissociable (internalized) compartments were found to be 9 min and 35 hr, respectively. Nevertheless, complete cell killing required the persistent presence of mTNF for up to 20 hr. This requirement was ablated by the concomitant addition of cycloheximide. Antiserum completely inhibited cytotoxicity when it was applied up to 4 hr after mTNF, but antiserum added I hr after mTNF was not neutralizing in the presence of cydohe.ximide. Thus, the inclusion of cycloheximide temporally dissociated early events (internalization and signal transduction) from lysis. Other drugs with and without cycloheximide were found to preferentially affect either early or later aspects of cell death. Phorbol myristate acetate and the ionophore A23187 were potent inhibitors of cytotoxicity and staurosporine was a potent enhancer. These agents were more effective when added 1 hr before mTNF and cycloheximide than when added 1 hr after and likely affected early events in the cytolytic program. In contrast, chloroquine and cAMP likely affect more terminal aspects of cytotoxicity. Dibutyrylcyclic AMP, cholera, and pertussis toxins enhanced cytotoxicity. They were equipotent when added either before or after mTNF regardless of the presence of cycloheximide. Likewise, chloroquine was an equipotent inhibitor when added either before or after mTNF regardless of the presence ofcycloheximide. Agents that primarily affect association events may be more likely to impinge on other TNF-mediated activities than agents that primarily affect lysis.
Quantification and existence

Those who want to interpret the quantifier ‘ (3 x) (. . .x. . .)'as having no existence commitment often fail to distinguish between this objective and that of merely changing the values of the variables. The confusion vitiates solutions of the singular existence anomalies which purport to be based on a non‐existential interpretation of the quantifier. An example of one who makes the distinction but still interprets the particular quantifier non‐existentially is offered by Czeslaw Lejewski. Objection to the classical interpretation of the quantifiers often runs hand in hand with aversion to extensional logic. However, it is at least arguable that such an aversion is the result of underestimating the resources of extensional logic. These points arc discussed in the wake of Professor Marcus's recent paper in this journal “Interpreting Quantification”.
Decisions for the IVF laboratory: comparative analysis of embryo culture incubators.

Incubators in the IVF laboratory play a pivotal role in providing a stable and appropriate culture environment required for optimizing embryo development and clinical outcomes. With technological advances, several types of incubators are now available and careful consideration is required for selection. Examination of variables, such as recovery/stabilization of temperature, gas atmosphere and humidity, as well as understanding various approaches utilized by each device to regulate these variables, is crit- ical. Additionally, a comprehensive examination of clinical studies that compare various incubators may provide insight into their efficacy. Other factors, both technical and practical, must also be considered when selecting an incubator. Importantly, proper management, including patient volume and workflow, is paramount in optimizing function of any incubator, regardless of the tech- nology incorporated. This review highlights incubator function and reviews key environmental variables controlled and the technol- ogy utilized in various units. Additionally, existing comparative studies focused on incubator recovery and clinical outcomes are critically analysed. Finally, strategies employed for incubator management, as well as future potential incubator improvements are discussed. While existing reports indicate that smaller benchtop/topload incubators provide faster recovery of environmental variables, there is no clear advantage of any particular incubator based on clinical outcomes. RBMOnline
Axotomized Rubrospinal Neurons Rescued by Fetal Spinal Cord Transplants Maintain Axon Collaterals to Rostral CNS Targets

Neurons that maintain extensive axon collaterals proximal to the site of axotomy may be better able to survive injury. Early lesions of the rubrospinal tract lead to retrograde cell death of the majority of axotomized immature neurons. Transplants of fetal spinal cord tissue rescue axotomized rubrospinal neurons and promote their axonal regeneration. Rubrospinal neurons develop many of their axon collaterals postnatally. The present study tests the hypothesis that the axotomized rubrospinal neurons that are rescued by transplants and regenerate their axons are those neurons that have established axon collaterals to targets rostral to the lesion. Neonatal rats received a transplant of fetal spinal cord tissue placed into a midthoracic spinal cord hemisection. One month after transplantation, the retrogradely transported fluorescent tracers fast blue (FB) and diamidino yellow (DY) were used to identify rubrospinal neurons with collaterals to particular targets. FB was injected either into the interpositus nucleus of the cerebellum or into the gray matter of the cervical enlargement to identify collaterals to these targets, and DY was injected into the spinal cord approximately 5 mm caudal to the transplant and lesion site to label retrogradely the neurons that regenerated their axons. Double labeling was observed in the axotomized neurons of the red nucleus after tracer injections into the cervical spinal cord but not after injections into the cerebellum. This labeling pattern indicates that axotomized rubrospinal neurons that are rescued and regenerate axons caudal to the transplant maintain axon collaterals at cervical spinal cord levels. Cerebellar collaterals do not appear to play a role in the survival and regrowth of axotomized rubrospinal neurons.
An examination of the consistency characteristics of abelson and Rosenberg's “symbolic psycho-logic”

In reference to this article the author states: Since my earliest exposure to psychological theory, I have been convinced that the old conception of psychology as a mental' science had more in its favor than its historical plight indicates. It was Descartes who convinced himself poignantly that his existence was real by recognizing the simple fact that he thought. Whether the phenomenal awareness that an individual possesses of his thoughts is sound evidence of his existence may be questionable; but clearly, that awareness makes thinking a psychological process of considerable importance to the psychologist interested in mental phenomena. The mathematical psychologist who looks for a way of analyzing thinking may be tempted to start by trying to establish a comparison between human modes of simple verbal deduction on the one hand and the normative prescriptions for valid deduction given by the logician on the other. It was in the process of attempting such a comparison that I came to know, and indeed appreciate, the work of Abelson and Rosenberg.
New Sum Rule for Photoproduction Amplitudes Based on Local Current Commutators

A sum rule for isovector Compton scattering, previously derived using dispersive techniques, is rederived using the + + light-cone commutator. The (nontrivial) limit of the sum rule at ${q}^{2}=0$ is given, and is found to be in excellent agreement with experiment. The deep-inelastic limit of the sum rule is discussed in the context of the covariant parton model, where it is shown that the free-field realization is untenable.
A unified cohesive zone approach to model the ductile to brittle transition of fracture toughness in reactor pressure vessel steels

Abstract In this study, a unified cohesive zone model is proposed to predict the ductile to brittle transition of fracture toughness in reactor pressure vessel steels. A general procedure is described to obtain the temperature and failure probability dependent cohesive zone model parameters. In order to establish the full master-curve, the procedure requires calibration at two different temperatures with one at the upper shelf for ductile fracture and one near the lower shelf for cleavage failure. In the present study, these calibrations are performed using the experimental fracture toughness values and the flow curves. Subsequently, fracture simulations are performed on one-inch thick compact tension and 3-point bend specimens at different temperatures and the resulting fracture toughness values are compared with experiments. A satisfactory agreement is observed which indicates the viability of such a unified modeling approach.
Development of a Rapid Fleet-Level Noise Computation Model

Future air transportation demand forecasts suggest that environmental concerns such as noise will be exacerbated beyond their current level. Although detailed airport noise modeling with tools such as the integrated noise model and the Federal Aviation Administration’s Aviation Environmental Design Tool are available, these software require relatively long setup and run times due to the number of inputs available to the user and the general fidelity level of the models. A rapid, flexible, and more simplified method that reduces the input variables to a critical few and can provide results in minutes is desired to evaluate fleet-level metrics with respect to new technologies or forecasted changes in demand. Current lower-fidelity methods only calculate a change in contour area due to changes within the overall fleet composition. These methods cannot account for the shape of the contour. This paper presents a rapid airport noise computation model that leverages the fidelity of detailed models. By performing...
Flexibility in Intercommodity Substitution May Sharpen Price Fluctuations

Consider a competitive industry using an aggregate of two commodities as an input to production. Suppose that the supply of one of the commodities is stochastic. It can then be shown that investment in flexibility in the ex post choice among the two commodities is likely to result in a sharpening rather than dampening of the stochastic fluctuations in the aggregate commodity price if the supply elasticity is lower for the substitute commodity than for the one with stochastic supply. The paper derives this result and applies it to the case of ex post flexibility in fuel choice with uncertain fuel supply.
A step-by-step approach to parent involvement programs for handicapped children

Parent involvement in programs for handicapped children is essential. It is often difficult, however, to develop involvement programs that are considered by professionals and parents to be truly successful. Presented are (1) a summary of the reasons for parent involvement and (2) parent, staff, and program factors that can hinder the implementation of a successful program. This is followed by an outline of a five-step approach to developing realistic and meaningful programs for parent involvement that will benefit parents, staff and, most importantly, the children.
Measurements of energy distribution and thrust for microwave plasma coupling of electrical energy to hydrogen for propulsion

A microwave plasma system for transfer of electrical energy to hydrogen flowing through the system has potential application for coupling energy to a flowing gas in the electrothermal propulsion concept. Experimental systems have been designed and built for determination of the energy inputs and outputs and thrust for the microwave coupling of energy to hydrogen. Results for experiments with pressure in the range 100 microns-6 torr, hydrogen flow rate up to 1000 micronmoles/s, and total absorbed power to 700 w are presented.
Response of Small Mammal Populations to Fuel Treatment and Precipitation in a Ponderosa Pine Forest, New Mexico

Mechanical and fire treatments are commonly used to reduce fuels where land use practices have encouraged accumulation of woody debris and high densities of trees. Treatments focus on restoration of vegetation structure, but will also affect wildlife populations. Small mammal populations were monitored before and after dense tree stands were thinned on 2,800 ha in NM, U.S.A. Mammals were live-trapped in upland and riparian habitats from 2002 to 2006 in thinned and unthinned forests. Populations of deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) and voles (Microtus spp.) were estimated using mark‐recapture data. An index of abundance was used for chipmunks (Tamias spp.) and woodrats (Neotoma spp.). Deer mice responded positively to thinning in 2005 in upland and riparian habitats. Voles responded positively to thinning in 2005 and 2006 in riparian habitats. There was no change related to thinning in relative abundance of chipmunks and woodrats or in total small mammal biomass. Because abiotic processes affect wildlife populations, we also examined response of deer mouse populations to precipitation. After removing treatment effects, populations were modeled with winter and summer precipitation. In both upland and riparian habitats, deer mouse populations had a curvilinear response to precipitation from the preceding winter, while responding negatively to summer rainfall only in riparian habitats. Increases in deer mice populations occurred on thinned sites during a year of high winter precipitation, generally associated with depressed populations, indicating that forest thinning moderated this relationship. Results suggest that precipitation plays a role in determining timing and presence of response to restoration treatments.
Radiation-induced grafting of methacrylic acid onto polyurethane in the presence of solvents

The radiation-induced grafting of methacrylic acid onto polyurethane has been carried out in the presence of solvents. The swelling of polyurethane was highest when the solubility parameter of the monomer solution was 11.0. The molecular weight of polyurethane did not change with the irradiation dose up to 30 Mrad in the absence of solvent. The irradiation in the presence of solvent, on the other hand, decreased the molecular weight. The grafting yield in CCl4, benzene, and n-hexane decreased monotonously with the decrease in monomer concentration. The large decrease of the grafting yield in CCl4 was proved to be due to the high possibility of chain transfer to CCl4. When such solvents as water, methanol, and DMF were used, on the other hand, a maximum grafting yield was obtained when the monomer concentration was ca. 75%. The hydrogen bonding among polyurethane, methacrylic acid, and solvent was found to affect both the swelling and the grafting yield.
516 METHYLATED 5′-TFRMINI OF GLOBIN mRNAs IN SbT-THALASSEMIA

Modified 5′-terminal structures (caps) of mRNA play an important role in the initiation of protein synthesis. A deficiency of 5′-capping and methylation has been suggested as a possible cause of β mRNA deficiency in β-thalassemia (β-thal). After incubating peripheral blood from β+-thal major, α-thal, nonthal adults with reticulocytosis, and erythroblastotic infants with [methyl-3H] methionine, the 5′-terminal structures of human α and β globin mRNA were labeled. To separate the 5′-terminal oligonucleotide of α mRNA from that of β mRNA, [3H]-labeled poly(A+) RNA was digested with RNase T1 and alkaline phosphatase, and the digest was fractionated by DFAE-Sephadex chromatography in 7 M urea. After sequence analysis, we found that the methylated 5′-termini of the α and β mRNAs are identical through the first three nucleotides: m7Gpppm6AmpCmp. Our data also indicate that addition of the four methyl groups to the 5′-end follows an orderly sequence. The rate of methylation of the 5′-terminus of β mRNA was compared to that of α mRNA in a patient with β+-thal major and in non-thal patients. No major differences in methylation were observed between the β+-thal and nonthal samples. We conclude that 5′-capping and methylation is not defective in our β+-thal patient.
Radiative leptonic tau decays and a search for τ− → μ−γ

Abstract Using the CLEO II detector at the Cornell Electron Storage Ring (CESR) the radiative decay of the τ has been studied and a search for the lepton number violating decay τ− → μ−γ has been performed. For a 10 MeV minimum photon energy in the τ rest frame B (τ− → ντμ− ν μγ) = (3.61 ± 0.16 ± 0.35 × 10−3) and B (τ− → ντe− ν eγ) = (1.75 ± 0.06 ± 0.17 × 10−2), in agreement with the Standard Model. For the decay τ− → μ−γ an upper limit of B )τ− → μ−γ)
Using analogical mapping to simulate time-course phenomena in perceptual similarity

We present a computational model of visual similarity. The model is based upon the idea that perceptual comparisons may utilize the same mapping processes as are used in analogy. We use the Structure Mapping Engine (SME), a model of Gentner's structure-mapping theory of analogy, to perform comparison on representations that are automatically generated from visual input. By encoding visual scenes incrementally and sampling the output of SME at multiple stages in its processing, we are able to model not only the output of similarity judgments, but the time course of the comparison process. We demonstrate the model's effectiveness by replicating the results from three psychological studies that bear on the time course of comparison.
Abnormalities in Zinc Homeostasis in Young Infants with Cystic Fibrosis

Low plasma zinc concentrations have been reported in approximately 30% of young infants with cystic fibrosis identified by newborn screening. The objective of this study was to examine zinc homeostasis in this population by application of stable isotope methodology. Fifteen infants with cystic fibrosis (9 male, 6 female; 7 breast-fed, 8 formula-fed) were studied at a mean (±SD) age of 1.8 ± 0.7 mo. On d 1, 70Zn was administered intravenously, and 67Zn was quantitatively administered with all human milk/formula feeds during the day. Three days later, a 3-d metabolic period was initiated, during which time intake was measured and complete urine and fecal collections were obtained. Fractional zinc absorption, total absorbed zinc, endogenous fecal zinc, and net absorbed zinc were measured; fecal fat excretion was also determined. Fractional absorption was significantly higher for the breast-fed infants (0.40 ± 0.21) compared with the formula-fed group (0.13 ± 0.06) (p = 0.01), but with the significantly higher dietary zinc intake of the formula-fed group, total absorbed zinc was higher for those receiving formula (p = 0.01). In 11 infants with complete zinc metabolic data, excretion of endogenous zinc was twofold greater for the formula-fed infants (p < 0.05); net absorption (mg zinc/d) was negative for both feeding groups: −0.04 ± 0.52 for breast-fed; −0.28 ± 0.57 for formula-fed. Endogenous fecal zinc losses correlated with fecal fat excretion (r = 0.89, n = 9, p = 0.001), suggesting interference with normal conservation of endogenously secreted zinc. These findings indicate impaired zinc homeostasis in this population and suggest an explanation for the observations of suboptimal zinc status in many young infants with cystic fibrosis prior to diagnosis and treatment.
Vaginal conductivity as an indicator for optimum breeding time in the sow after weaning

Abstract One hundred crossbreed multiparous sows were probed for vaginal mucosal conductivity using a conductivity meter (OVU-MATETM) to detect optimum time for breeding. The vaginal mucosal conductivity was measured once daily, starting the day of weaning until the sows were bred. According to the manufacturer, a 15 point increase in the OVU-MATE reading, when compared to that of the previous day, indicates the approach of estrus. After weaning the one hundred sows were randomly assigned to one (n = 20) of the five groups according to the following breeding schedules: sows were bred once at 0 h (Group 1), at 12 h (Group 2), at 24 h (Group 3) and at 36 h (Group 4) following a 15 point or higher increase in vaginal mucosal conductivity. Control sows (Group 5) were bred twice, 24 h apart, when estrus was detected by intact boars. All sows were bred naturally. The percentage of sows standing for the scheduled breeding, farrowing rate and litter size of each group were recorded. Only 60 and 50% of the sows were mated at 0 and 12 h, respectively, after an increase in vaginal mucosal conductivity, while all the sows in the other groups were mated. Sows in the control group and sows bred at 24 and 36 h after the vaginal mucosal conductivity increase had a similar farrowing rate (85%). There was no significant difference for litter size between the treatment groups when compared with those of the controls (0 h:10.33; 12 h:10.8; 24 h:11.11, 36 h:9.76, and controls:10.29;). These results suggest that a single mating at 24 or 36 h after a 15-point or higher vaginal mucosal conductivity increase results in a farrowing rate and litter size which is comparable with twice-mated control sows.
Free Fatty Acid Metabolism during Embryogenesis of Periplaneta americana (L)

EXERGONIC reactions involving predominantly the catabolism of lipid materials1, particularly triglycerides2,3, provide the developing oviparous arthropod embryo with the energy necessary to sustain the intense metabolic activity occurring during its embryogenesis. The integral metabolism of these lipids should be closely reflected in the pattern of the free or unesterified fatty acids during this period, for these acids ultimately are the oxidizable form of the stored glycerides. It is established from analytical data2,4 and measurements of the respiratory quotient (R.Q.)5 that free fatty acids are catabolized to provide respiratory energy in both invertebrate and vertebrate tissue. The metabolic pattern of these acids was investigated with the developing embryo of the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana (L), as the experimental material.
Elaborating Cognitive Psychology through Linkages to Psychology as a Helping Profession

Many psychology students are interested in psychology as a helping profession. Teachers of cognitive psychology can establish links from the cognitive course to psychology as a helping profession that will motivate students both to take the course and to learn more effectively in the course because of personal meaningfulness. Teachers of cognitive psychology can establish at least 6 major links throughout the course.
Application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapies for Comorbid Insomnia and Depression

This article provides an overview of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia and depression. Included is a discussion of how CBT for insomnia affects depression symptoms and how CBT for depression affects insomnia symptoms. The extant literature is reviewed on ways that depression/insomnia comorbidity moderates CBT response. The article concludes with an introduction to cognitive behavioral social rhythm therapy, a group therapy that integrates tenets of CBT for both disorders.
COMPARATIVE BEHAVIOUR OF WEST AFRICAN AND SOUTH AFRICAN SUBSPECIES OF PLOCEUS CUCULLATUS

(1971). COMPARATIVE BEHAVIOUR OF WEST AFRICAN AND SOUTH AFRICAN SUBSPECIES OF PLOCEUS CUCULLATUS. Ostrich: Vol. 42, No. sup1, pp. 41-52.
Design of optimal quantizers for distributed source coding

The problem of designing optimal quantizers for distributed source coding is addressed. The generality of this formulation includes both the symmetric and asymmetric scenarios, together with a number of coding schemes, such as ideal coding achieving a rate equal to the joint conditional entropy of the quantized sources given the side information. The paper shows the optimality conditions that quantizers must satisfy, and generalizes the Lloyd algorithm for their design. Experimental results are shown for the Gaussian scalar asymmetric case.
3,5‐Dimethoxybenzyl 4‐Nitrophenyl Carbonate

[6453-62-9] C16H15NO7 (MW 333.30) InChI = 1S/C16H15NO7/c1-21-14-7-11(8-15(9-14)22-2)10-23-16(18)24-13-5-3-12(4-6-13)17(19)20/h3-9H,10H2,1-2H3 InChIKey = RIOVOTMXFSAZJL-UHFFFAOYSA-N (amino-protecting group used in peptide synthesis1) Physical Data: mp 114–15 °C. Solubility: sol chloroform, THF. Preparative Method: by reduction of 3,5-dimethoxybenzoic acid with Lithium Aluminum Hydride and then acylation of the resulting 3,5-dimethoxybenzyl alcohol with 4-nitrophenyl chloroformate.1
A Study of Dielectric Covered Shunt Slots in a Waveguide

The purpose of this study was to experimentally determine the effects of placing dielectric covers of various thicknesses over a shunt slot in a waveguide. Slot lengths L and displacements x were chosen so that the data cover the waveguide bandwidth for dielectric constants ?' from ?' = 1 to ?' = 4. Utilizing the measured data, formulas are developed for the mean values of slot conductance and resonant frequency for cover thicknesses greater than ??'/4. In addition, it is shown that plane wave theory gives a bound on the conductance variation for covers thicker than ??'/4. Finally, pattern and VSWR measurements of linear arrays of dielectric covered slots designed with single slot data give predictable results.
Feedback control of an underactuated system with two unactuated degrees of freedom

Studies the problem of controlling a planar rigid body containing a sliding block, which represents an underactuated mechanical system with two unactuated degrees of freedom. The main result of the paper is the construction of a point-to-point discontinuous feedback controller for the system by utilizing the nonlinear coupling between the directly actuated degrees of freedom and the unactuated degrees of freedom.
A Mobile Trading Scheme for Digital Content Based on Digital Rights

To support users' purchase of digital content over a mobile network, a mobile trading scheme for digital content based on the digital rights concept is proposed in this paper. Based on our proposed mobile trading scheme, not only can content providers transmit authorized digital content to service providers according to predefined contracts, but consumers can also purchase digital content through their telecommunication companies via mobile personal devices, and the purchasing costs can be charged by the telecommunication companies. The proposed scheme supports mobile users' purchase of digital content in both the home domain and any visited domain. Moreover, the proposed scheme provides authentication, non-repudiation and confidentiality properties and makes sure the obligations and rights of participants are not violated.
Tetrad Analysis in Higher Plants. A Budding Technology

Tetrad analysis, the ability to manipulate and individually study the four products of a single meiotic event, has been critical to understanding the mechanisms of heredity. The Arabidopsis quartet (qrt) mutation, which causes the four products of male meiosis to remain attached, enables plant biologists to apply this powerful tool to investigations of gamete development, cell division, chromosome dynamics, and recombination. Here we highlight several examples of how qrt has been used to perform tetrad analysis and suggest additional applications including a genetic screen for gametophytic mutants and methods for investigating gene interactions by synthetic lethal analysis.