cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Selective Life-Long Skeletal Myofiber-Targeted VEGF Gene Ablation Impairs Exercise Capacity in Adult Mice.

Exercise is dependent on adequate oxygen supply for mitochondrial respiration in both cardiac and locomotor muscle. To determine whether skeletal myofiber VEGF is critical for regulating exercise capacity, independent of VEGF function in the heart, ablation of the VEGF gene was targeted to skeletal myofibers (skmVEGF-/-) during embryogenesis (∼ E9.5), leaving intact VEGF expression by all other cells in muscle. In adult mice, VEGF levels were decreased in the soleus (by 65%), plantaris (94%), gastrocnemius (74%), EDL (99%) and diaphragm (64%) (P < 0.0001, each muscle). VEGF levels were unchanged in the heart. Treadmill speed (WT 86 ± 4 cm/sec, skmVEGF-/- 70 ± 5 cm/sec, P = 0.006) and endurance (WT 78 ± 24 min, skmVEGF-/- 18 ± 4 min, P = 0.0004) were severely limited in skmVEGF-/- mice in contrast to minor effect of conditional skmVEGF gene deletion in the adult. Body weight was also reduced (WT 22.8 ± 1.6 g, skmVEGF-/-, 21.1 ± 1.5, P = 0.02), but the muscle mass/body weight ratio was unchanged. The capillary/fiber ratio was lower in skmVEGF-/- plantaris (WT 1.51 ± 0.12, skmVEGF-/- 1.16 ± 0.20, P = 0.01), gastrocnemius (WT 1.61 ± 0.08, skmVEGF-/- 1.39 ± 0.08, P = 0.01), EDL (WT 1.36 ± 0.07, skmVEGF-/- 1.14 ± 0.13, P = 0.03) and diaphragm (WT 1.39 ± 0.18, skmVEGF-/- 0.79 ± 0.16, P = 0.0001) but, not in soleus. Cardiac function (heart rate, maximal pressure, maximal dP/dt, minimal dP/dt,) in response to dobutamine was not impaired in anesthetized skmVEGF-/- mice. Isolated soleus and EDL fatigue times were 16% and 20% (P < 0.02) longer, respectively, in skmVEGF-/- mice than the WT group. These data suggest that skeletal myofiber VEGF expressed during development is necessary to establish capillary networks that allow maximal exercise capacity.
Computation in networks

We present an introduction to the modeling of networks of nodes which parse the information presented to them into an output. One example is the nodes are excitable neurons which are collected into a nervous system for an animal whether invertebrate or vertebrate. We will focus on the development of the ideas and tools that might help us understand how to build a model of such a system being careful to explain the many approximations or model errors we make along the way. We start with a discussion of low level biophysical concepts such as the cable equation and the Hodgkin - Huxley model and end with graph based models of computation. We also include motivational arguments that show hardware and software issues in neural models are interwined.
The Effect of Grafting on the Flowering of Near-Isogenic Lines of Soybean

Grafting of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] genotypes differing in time to flower has been used to study translocation of flowering hormones and also as a tool to facilitate crossing. Our objective was to use Y-shaped, grafted soybean plants to examine the mobility of the flowering stimulus. We grafted plants of 'Harosoy' (L58-266, homozygous for the e 1 e 2 E 3 e 5 genotype) and four isolines of Harosoy [L62-667 (e 1 e 2 e 3 e 5 ), L71-802 (E 1 e 2 e 3 e 5 ), L84-307 (e 1 E 2 e 3 e 5 ), and L84-337 (1 e e 2 e 3 E 5 )], differing by single maturity genes. The scion was reciprocally grafted on one of the branches, leaving the second branch as a stock. Ungrafted and self-grafted controls were included, and plants were grown in growth chambers under short- (12-h) and long-day (20-h) photoperiods. All treatments flowered at the same time under short-day photoperiod. Under long-day photoperiod, the greatest delay of flowering was observed in lines containing the E 1 and E 3 alleles. The stock and scion flowered independently of each other and no stock x scion interaction occurred. Hypothesizing that leaving full foliage on the plants could have been a reason for the lack of mutual effect of scion and stock, we performed a second experiment where one, two, four, eight, and all leaves were maintained on the scion. The scion and stock affected each other only slightly, and only when one or two leaves were present on a scion. The location of the first flowering node suggested the promotion of flowering in the isogenic line containing the late E 3 allele.
The effects of cell proliferation on the lipid composition and fluidity of hepatocyte plasma membranes

Abstract The fluorescence probe, 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene, has been used to investigate the effects of controlled and uncontrolled growth on the dynamic properties of the lipid regions of hepatocyte plasma membranes. DPH was incubated with plasma membranes derived from quiescent and regenerating liver and Morris hepatoma 7777, and the resulting systems were studied by fluorescence polarization spectroscopy. Membranes from the rapidly growing hepatoma exhibited a significantly lower fluorescence polarization than observed in quiescent liver, suggesting the presence of a more fluid membrane lipid domain. Membranes from regenerating liver exhibited a time-dependent increase in membrane fluidity, reaching a maximum 12 h after growth stimulation. A close correspondence between membrane fluidity and the cholesterol-phospholipid ratio was also observed where a decrease in this ratio resulted in a more fluid lipid matrix. These results suggest that cell cycling, as observed in regenerating liver and Morris hepatoma 7777, results in significant increases in membrane fluidity, a property which may play an important regulatory role in various cell functions.
E-Gun anode modulator R&D prototype for RHIC elens project

In order to increase the polarized proton luminosities, a new E-LENS system will be installed in RHIC tunnel. One of the key parts of this project is achieve a fast rise time for elens electron gun. The electron gun is driven by a fast high voltage rise time and high pulse repetition rate anode modulator. This paper will discuss some details of the modulator design concept and its simulation, problems during the test, modulator scheme modification and new modulator scheme prototype test results. Meanwhile, some test diagrams, prototype pictures and measured waveforms will be shown in the paper. The prototype test has reached the specification requirement of the modulator. The output high voltage is 10 kV, HV pulse rise and fall time is about 50nS (10%-90%) and the pulse repetition rate has reached 80 kHz.
Production of Volatile Compounds by Fuji Apples Following Exposure to High CO2 or Low O2

The emission of volatile compounds by Fuji apples following short- or long-term exposure to high CO(2) was studied. The production of ethanol, methyl and ethyl esters, octanal, nonanal, and decanal was enhanced while the production of C(3)-C(6) alcohols, propyl, butyl, pentyl, and hexyl esters and butanal decreased in fruit exposed to 10 kPa O(2) + 20 kPa CO(2) at 20 degrees C for up to 12 days. The impact of high CO(2) exposure on volatile production was dependent on fruit maturity at harvest. Apples stored for 8 months in an ultralow O(2)-controlled atmosphere (CA) (0.5 kPa O(2) + 0.05 kPa CO(2)) or high CO(2) CA (1.5 kPa O(2) + 3 kPa CO(2)) at 0.5 degrees C had reduced production of most volatiles, especially butyl and hexyl esters, as compared to fruit stored in air. Two exceptions were ethanol and ethyl acetate for which the production was enhanced by both CA regimes. Treatment with the antioxidant diphenylamine prior to storage prevented most of the high CO(2)-induced and ultralow O(2)-induced changes in volatile production. The results of this study do not indicate that changes in volatile production following the exposure of Fuji apples to high CO(2) are causally related to the development of CO(2) injury.
Macrocycles with Switchable exo/endo Metal Binding Sites

We report herein the synthesis and metal complexation properties of two macrocyclic hosts that contain two 2,2′-bipyridines and two urea groups. These hosts take advantage of the conformationally mobile 5,5′-positions of the bipyridines to give metal binding sites that are dynamic. By simple bond rotation, these hosts can exchange an interior (endo) situated metal binding site for an exterior (exo) binding site. We examine the solid-state structures of the two free hosts and two coordination complexes ([Cd(host 1)(H2O)(NO3)2] and [Ag2(host 2)](SO3CF3)2) using X-ray crystallography. Analysis of these crystal structures suggests that the bipyridine groups within the hosts are able to rotate to access multiple conformations including the desired exo and endo conformations. We also investigate the binding affinity of these new ligands in solution by UV−vis titrations with a series of metal nitrate salts (Ag, Cd, Zn, Ni, Mn, Fe, Co, Cr, and Cu) to afford discrete metal complexes. Some complexes showed a slow s...
Novel Polymer Synthesis using Enzymatic Catalysis in Nonaqueous Media

The use of enzymes in organic solvents has enabled two distinct polymer syntheses to be performed. The first is the enzyme-catalyzed polycondensation of sucrose with an adipic acid derivative in pyridine. Taking advantage of the extremely high regioselectivity of proleather, an alkaline protease, sucrose has been polymerized with 6 and 1' ester linkages. The result is a highly water-soluble product with sucrose an integral part of the polymer backbone. The polyester is degraded by the proleather in aqueous solution, thereby suggesting that the polymer is biodegradable. The second polymer synthesis is the free-radical polymerization of phenols using horseradish peroxidase in dioxane-water mixtures. Molecular weights in excess of 25,000 have been produced. The scope of polymerization can be predicted based on enzyme kinetics in organic media and using a Monte Carlo simulation. Astonishingly accurate simulations have been run that suggest that the high degree of control afforded by enzymatic catalysis over conventional chemical catalysts can be usedpredictively in polymer synthesis. This is of great importance in process control of polymer syntheses.
Arsenic and Mercury Partitioning in Fly Ash at a Kentucky Power Plant

Coal and fly ash samples were collected from a 500-MW unit at a Kentucky power plant, with the objective of studying the distribution of arsenic, mercury, and other trace elements in fly ash. The coal feed was low-sulfur, high volatile A bituminous central West Virginia coal. The plant produced a relatively low-carbon fly ash. In contrast to power plants with high-mercury feed coal, the fly ashes from the lower-mercury feed coal had low mercury values, generally not exceeding 0.01 ppm Hg. Mercury capture by fly ash varies with both the amount and type of carbon and the collection temperature; mercury capture is more efficient at lower temperatures. Arsenic in the feed coal and in the flue gas is of concern to the utility, because of the potential for catalyst poisoning in the selective catalytic reduction system (in the planning stage at the time of the sampling). Arsenic is captured in the fly ash, increasing in concentration in the more-distant (from the boiler) reaches of the electrostatic precipitator...
The 1976 Standard Atmosphere and its relationship to earlier standards

The 1976 U.S. Standard Atmosphere, representing a mid-latitude atmosphere for moderate solar activity, is compared to earlier standards. For heights of 51 km and below, this standard is identical with its immediate predecessor, the 1962 U.S. Standard Atmosphere. When the density-height profile of each of five earlier model atmospheres is compared with that of the 1976 standard, an oscillation of this parameter around the currently accepted average value is observed, which is partly the result of true density changes related to the 11-year cycle of solar activity and partly the result of earlier uncertainties. The development of knowledge is also elucidated by comparing the temperature-height profiles of each of the important standards used during the preceding century. Number densities of each of six atmospheric species computed for the 1976 U.S. standard are compared over the height region of 0 to 1000 km.
The application of networks in basic computer science and information science research

Abstract A list of important criteria for research projects in computer network technology and the application of networking to basic computer and information science research is presented. Ten specific research areas deserving of support are identified. Brief snapshots of each of these research areas are given.
Effect of pregnancy in patients with lupus nephropathy.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) occurs primarily in women during child-bearing years. The possible influence of pregnancy on the underlying activity of SLE has important implications for this group of patients because of the threat of severe, and even life threatening, exacerbations of disease, and the possibility of a reduced likelihood of a successful outcome for the product of conception. On the basis of previous reports on large series of cases, the relationship between SLE and pregnancy is controversial [1–4]. Furthermore, although renal involvement is a common feature of SLE and is a major source of morbidity and death [5], the influence of pregnancy on lupus nephropathy has not been ascertained. Previous reports on the relationship between lupus nephropathy and pregnancy are difficult to analyze because, in general, few have detailed information on the chronologic sequence of nephropathy and pregnancy, and the type and severity of the underlying renal histopathologic lesion [1–3, 6–11]. Moreover, in some initial reports, current modes of treatment were not available. The present study was undertaken to characterize the clinical course of SLE in patients with lupus nephropathy during pregnancy and postpartum. Because it seemed unlikely that sufficient clinical materials for analysis would be available to any single clinic, or that a prospective study of pregnancy in patients with SLE would be performed in the near future, we conducted a survey of nephrologists with an interest in lupus nephropathy, representing a wide geographic distribution. This analysis is derived from data obtained on 65 pregnancies by 47 patients with SLE reported from 13 centers. All patients manifested clinical signs of lupus nephropathy at some time during the course of their illness, and renal biopsy material was available in 77% of cases. Because lupus nephropathy increases the morbidity associated with SLE, it seems likely that any bias in selection of these cases would favor those with greater severity. In addition, because these cases were obtained from multiple centers, the clinical material used in this analysis tends to reflect the widely divergent attitudes towards SLE and treatment modalities used to treat this disease.
Low serum cortisol in term newborns with refractory hypotension.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to measure baseline serum cortisol levels and clinical response to glucocorticoid therapy in a group of term infants with refractory hypotension. STUDY DESIGN: Seven term newborns with refractory hypotension were included. Serum cortisol levels were drawn before initiation of glucocorticoid therapy and measured by either fluorescence polarization immunoassay or radioimmunoassay. Baseline blood pressures, heart rate, and inotropes doses were recorded at baseline, then 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after glucocorticoid therapy. Urine output and volume expanders the infants received were recorded 24 hours before and after glucocorticoid therapy. Dexamethasone was used at a starting dose of 0.2 mg/kg per day divided every 12 hours. The statistical analysis was done using analysis of variance with repeated measures and paired t-test. RESULTS: Serum cortisol levels of the infants ranged from 2.0 to 15.4 μg/dl. After initiation of glucocorticoid therapy, there was significant improvement of blood pressure. Vasopressors were rapidly weaned and discontinued within 72 hours. In three of seven infants, no volume expanders were required after initiation of steroids, and none needed volume expanders after 2 days. Urine output increased significantly within 24 hours. All infants survived. CONCLUSIONS: Glucocorticoids improved pressure and stabilized clinical conditions of a group of term newborns with refractory hypotension. Serum cortisol levels of these infants were relatively low. We speculate that a subset of critically ill term infants has relative adrenal insufficiency and glucocorticoid therapy may be essential.
Convective heat transfer in a rotating square channel with oblique cross section

A numerical study has been performed to study the fluid flow and convective heat transfer inside a rotating square isothermal channel with the channel cross-section having oblique angles to the rotational axis. The channel is subjected to a radial rotation. Computations are carried out for flows at Re=500, 1000 and 2000 and range from the channel entrance to a flow distance of 300 and 600 times the hydraulic diameter, depending upon the Reynolds number. Results reveal the vortex flow structures, and consequently the heat transfer phenomena, are quite different from that of previous studies with zero oblique angle. The channel with 45 degree oblique angle yields the best overall heat transfer performance.
Sound conversion in impure superfluids

We consider the conversion of first sound into second sound and the reverse in different impure superfluid systems. We calculate the coupling between temperature (entropy) oscillations and pressure (density) oscillations for impure superfluids (including ${}^{3}\mathrm{He}{\ensuremath{-}}^{4}\mathrm{He}$ mixtures) and for superfluid He (both ${}^{3}\mathrm{He}$ and ${}^{4}\mathrm{He})$ in aerogel and show that sound conversion in these systems is governed by $c(\ensuremath{\partial}\ensuremath{\rho}/\ensuremath{\partial}c)$ or by $\ensuremath{\sigma}{\ensuremath{\rho}}_{a}{\ensuremath{\rho}}_{s}$ (instead of $\ensuremath{\partial}\ensuremath{\rho}/\ensuremath{\partial}T,$ which is enormously small in pure He). This replacement plays a fundamental role in the sound conversion phenomenon in impure superfluids and superfluids in aerogel. It enhances the coupling strengths of the two sounds and decreases the threshold values for nonlinear processes in homogeneous superfluids. Some phenomena such as the slow mode of superfluid ${}^{3}\mathrm{He}$ and ${}^{4}\mathrm{He}$ in aerogel, and heat pulse propagation with the velocity of first sound in HeII in aerogel can be understood as a double sound conversion phenomena.
Cognitive processes and social norms in natural discourse at the marketplace

Abstract This study constitutes a preliminary attempt to begin answering the following question: how can we hope to reconcile two seemingly opposite views of natural discourse, namely one which focuses on cognitive processes and underlying knowledge structures, and another which focuses on the participants' ‘social construction of reality’ through ongoing interactive processes? An interesting source of inspiration for this task is the recently developed ‘communicator goal’ approach, which is strongly influenced by Schank and Abelson's view of interaction as guided by pre-existing goals. This cognitive model is used here in conjunction with the ethnomethodological model of social interaction which stresses its dynamic dimensions. The focus in this paper is on one particular dimension of communicative competence which relates to both models, namely the interactants' ability to deal with changeable goals during a conversation. My proposed methodological framework is tested through the analysis of a 45-minute transcript of naturally occurring speech recorded at a Southern California marketplace. Verbal interaction in service encounters is shown not to always follow a prototype scenario based on pre-existing knowledge structures and goals: discourse has emergent properties based on the particular circumstances of the situation.
Treatment of Peri-Implantitis and the Failing Implant

Appropriate treatment of implants is becoming increasingly important for the general dentist as the number of implants placed per year continues to increase. Early diagnosis of peri-implantitis is imperative; initiating the correct treatment protocol depends on a proper diagnosis. Several risk factors exist for the development of peri-implantitis, which can guide patient selection and treatment planning. Treatment of peri-implantitis should be tailored to the severity of the lesion (as outlined by the cumulative interceptive supportive treatment protocol), ranging from mechanical debridement to explantation. Several surgical and nonsurgical treatment alternatives exist. There is little consensus on superior treatment methods.
Role of Procoagulant Lipids in Human Prothrombin Activation. 2. Soluble Phosphatidylserine Upregulates and Directs Factor Xa to Appropriate Peptide Bonds in Prothrombin

Activation of human prothrombin to thrombin (IIa) by factor Xa during blood coagulation requires proteolysis of two bonds and thus involves two possible activation pathways (parallel-sequential act...
The executive growth factor: how Siemens invigorated its customer relationships

Purpose – Many companies claim to have established senior executive relationship programs, but few have linked their account plans to senior executive actions, and consequently, only a few can report successful growth results. This article provides a systematic approach to create a replicable executive engagement process.Design/methodology/approach – During 1997‐2005, five research consortiums on global account management (GAM), involving more than 30 companies around the world, were conducted. The objectives were to explore current successful practices and future competencies in GAM. In addition to the empirical investigation of the effects of successful GAM implementation, several case studies were developed.Findings – The case of Siemens Information & Communication illustrates the benefits on both the supplier and the customer sides when companies make a systematic effort to link their account plans to senior executive actions. In the case of Siemens, the growth rate of the systematically “managed” acc...
The synergistic effect of growing older with hoarding behaviors.

Clinically significant hoarding behaviors (HB) have been defined as acquisition of, and failure to discard, large numbers of items, which limits the use of one’s home and causes functional impairme...
Visualization techniques in the nasal airway: Their role in the diagnosis of upper airway disease and measurement of therapeutic response

Flexible fiberoptic rhinopharyngolaryngoscopy permits the examination of most areas of the upper airway that heretofore have not been easily visualized with other available techniques. Use of the flexible fiberscope is safe, convenient, quick, and cost efficient. Abnormalities can be easily seen relating to the septum, turbinates, and mucosa, as well as the nasopharynx, adenoids, eustachian orifice, tonsils, posterior tongue, epiglottis, glottis, and vocal cords. The origin of nasal polyps can also be identified. Furthermore, effects of treatment can be followed with the fiberscope as well. For example, when flunisolide is given to a patient with allergic rhinitis, the reduction of nasal obstruction and edema can be easily visualized.
Production of /∫/ in trochaic and nontrochaic weak contexts

This study examined whether young children produce an emerging sound (/s/) more accurately in a weak syllable if the syllable is trochaic (i.e., in a strong-weak syllable pattern) than if it is nontrochaic (i.e., either preceding a strong syllable or following another weak syllable). Eight typically-developing 28- to 32-month-old children who sometimes misproduced /s/ imitated three-syllable nonwords with /s/ as the onset in five syllable types: (a) word-medial stressed, (b) word-medial unstressed following a stressed syllable (i.e., trochaic), (c) word-initial nontrochaic, (d) word-medial nontrochaic, and (e) word-final nontrochaic. As predicted, /s/ was more accurate in trochaic than nontrochaic contexts. Among nontrochaic contexts, /s/ was more accurate in word-final position than in word-initial or word-medial positions. Production of /s/ in word-final nontrochaic syllables was similar to that in word-medial trochaic syllables. Metrical structure and final syllable prominence together predicted which weak syllables are most likely to contain consonant errors.
Juvenile hormone and colony conditions differentially influence cytochrome P450 gene expression in the termite Reticulitermes flavipes

In lower termites, the worker caste is a totipotent immature stage that is capable of differentiating into other adult caste phenotypes. We investigated the diversity of family 4 cytochrome P450 (CYP4) genes in Reticulitermes flavipes workers, with the specific goal of identifying P450s potentially involved in regulating caste differentiation. Seven novel CYP4 genes were identified. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed the tissue distribution of expression for the seven CYP4s, as well as temporal expression changes in workers in association with a release from colony influences and during juvenile hormone (JH)-induced soldier caste differentiation. Several fat-body-related CYP4 genes were differentially expressed after JH treatment. Still other genes changed expression in association with removal from colony influences, suggesting that primer pheromones and/or other colony influences impact their expression. These findings add to a growing database of candidate termite caste-regulatory genes, and provide explicit evidence that colony factors influence termite gene expression.
Effect of inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme and/or neutral endopeptidase on vascular and neural complications in high fat fed/low dose streptozotocin-diabetic rats

Treating high fat fed/low dose streptozotocin-diabetic rats; model of type 2 diabetes, with ilepatril (vasopeptidase inhibitor, blocks neutral endopeptidase (NEP) and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)) improved vascular and neural function. Next, studies were performed to determine the individual effect of inhibition of NEP and ACE on diabetes-induced vascular and neural dysfunction. High fat fed rats (8 weeks) were treated with 30 mg/kg streptozotocin (i.p.) and after 4 additional weeks, were treated for 12 weeks with ilepatril, enalapril (ACE inhibitor) or candoxatril (NEP inhibitor) followed by analysis of vascular and neural function. Glucose clearance was impaired in diabetic rats and was not improved with treatment although treatment with ilepatril or candoxatril partially improved insulin stimulated glucose uptake by isolated soleus muscle. Diabetes caused slowing of motor and sensory nerve conduction, thermal hypoalgesia, reduction in intraepidermal nerve fiber (IENF) profiles and impairment in vascular relaxation to acetylcholine and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in epineurial arterioles of the sciatic nerve. Inhibition of NEP improved nerve conduction velocity and inhibition of NEP or ACE improved thermal sensitivity and protected IENF density. Ilepatril and candoxatril treatment of diabetic rats was efficacious in improving vascular responsiveness to acetylcholine in epineurial arterioles; whereas all three treatments improved vascular response to CGRP. These studies suggest that inhibition of NEP and ACE activity is an effective approach for treatment of type 2 diabetes neural and vascular complications.
Adenylate cyclase coupled beta adrenergic receptors of rauscher erythroleukemia cells

Rauscher murine erythroleukemia cells undergo erythroid differentiation in response to the hormonal inducer erythropoietin and to synthetic inducers. Incubation of these cells with (−) isoproterenol or (−) epinephrine results in a 2–3-fold increase in cyclic AMP levels. This effect is completely blocked by propranolol, identifying the response as due to a β-adrenergic receptor·adenylate cyclase system. Experiments with [125I]iodohydroxybenzylpindolol demonstrate 1700 β-adrenergic receptors/cell with a KD of 320 pM. These results form the basis for further studies of the β-adrenergic receptor·adenylate cyclase complex during erythropoiesis.
Perspective: Time to face the fungal threat

Changing crop selection and improving food storage might reduce global rates of liver cancer, says Felicia Wu.
Third Place—Resident Basic Science Award 1997 Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase causes elevation of hearing thresholds☆☆☆★

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Nitric oxide mediates the effects of excitatory amino acids in the central nervous system. The excitatory amino acids are thought to be the neurotransmitters at the cochlear hair cell–afferent nerve synapse. Nitric oxide synthase is present in spiral ganglion cells. This study investigated the role of nitric oxide in cochlear neurotransmission. METHODS: In gerbils, cochlear compound action potential thresholds were recorded before and after cochlear perfusions with control solutions of artificial perilymph solution and test solutions of S-methyl- l -thiocitrulline (MTC), a competitive inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. Cochleas were also preperfused with l -arginine before perfusion with a mixture of MTC/ l -arginine (to overcome competitive inhibition by MTC with l -arginine, the natural substrate of nitric oxide synthase). RESULTS: Cochlear perfusion with MTC caused significant elevations of compound action potential threshold of 51 dB as opposed to insignificant elevations of only 10 dB in control animals. An insignificant threshold shift of 9 dB was observed when l -arginine was coperfused with MTC. CONCLUSIONS: Nitric oxide is involved in neurotransmission/neuromodulation in the cochlea. Because nitric oxide is both a mediator of neurotoxicity and an initiator of apoptosis in the central nervous system, nitric oxide may play a role in these processes in the cochlea. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1998;119:159-63.)
Variable-size variable-band selection for spectral feature characterization in hyperspectral data

This paper presents a band selection technique for spectral feature characterization in hyperspectral data, referred to as band selection for hyperspectral signature feature characterization (BSHSFC). Since a hyperspectral signature is characterized by its spectral profile, the number of bands to be selected is totally determined by spectral features that uniquely characterize the signature. As a result, two hyperspectral signatures may require different sets of bands for spectral characterization. The proposed BSHSFC is a variable-size variable-band selection (VSVBS) where the number of selected bands varies with a hyperspectral signature to be processed. In order for BSHSFC to select an appropriate set of bands for a hyperspectral signature, a new band prioritization criterion, referred to as orthogonal subspace projectorbased band prioritization criterion (OSP-BPC) is derived for this purpose. It assigns a different priority score to each spectral band of a hyperspectral signature such that various features can be captured by the BSHSFC from the original set of bands. Accordingly, the BSHSFC can be interpreted as a spectral feature extraction technique for signature characterization. Finally, experiments using two sets of data are conducted to demonstrate that the BSHSFC-based BS can improve the performance of hyperspectral signature characterization.
F SCALE ELEVATION AND PTSD MMPI PROFILES

MMPI profiles for 87 PTSD veteran inpatients were classified and studied according to MMPI F Scale elevation. Mean MMPI profiles and frequency of high two-point code types were studied for different levels of F Scale elevation. Similar mean profile configurations were found for subgroups with F ≥ 70 with Scales 2 and 8 appearing as the two highest clinical scales. For F < 70 the configuration was different in that Scale 8 was not one of the two highest scales. The 2-8/8-2 high two-point code was the modal high two-point code for the total sample but the relative frequency of high two-point codes did vary somewhat within and across levels of F Scale elevation.
Power system state forecasting using regression analysis

This paper presents a block-diagonal state transition matrix based on regression analysis. The state transition matrix is used to forecast the system state, which is subsequently corrected through extended Kalman filter in classical dynamic state estimation (DSE). The transition matrix is updated when new online measurement data are available. The forecasting accuracy can be traded off according to the frequency of the updates. The tests on IEEE 14- and 30-bus system show improvement in the state forecasting accuracy when compared to the existing state forecasting methods in dynamic state estimation.
Assessing the gifts, talents, and skills of nursing home residents.

A team of observant student nurses at the University of Texas (UT) developed a new way of thinking about older adults in nursing facilities and established an innovative program within those facilities to highlight the skills and talents of older adults. The following event prompted the innovation. Mrs. King, a resident, had a daughter who visited her almost daily.When Mrs. King died, her daughter continued to visit the other residents she had befriended. She found out that the nursing home needed more bibs and napkins in the dining room. She also found some residents, three in particular, who loved to sew but couldn’t because they had sold their sewing machines when they moved into the nursing facility. Although the three residents’ mobility was impaired somewhat, they socialized and participated in various activities. Mrs. King’s daughter decided to invite the three residents to her home to sew. They looked forward to their weekly jaunts, and soon they made more than 300 bibs and napkins and began looking for other projects. The student nurses who observed and encouraged Mrs. King’s daughter discussed this case with their classmates at the UT School of Nursing, where they were enrolled in a course on aging. After much discussion, a class project was developed to systematically identify more residents in their nursing facilities and others who had special gifts and talents they were willing to share within their facility and community organizations.
The Second Great Emancipation: The Mechanical Cotton Picker, Black Migration, and How They Shaped the Modern South

In the Cotton South before World War II, every task, from plowing to cultivating to harvesting the crop, was done by hand. These labor-intensive practices, coupled with too many farmers -- both tenants and owners -- trying to survive on small, uneconomical farms, kept the region poor, backward, and unmechanized. From 1940 to 1970, however, in the Great Migration, southern blacks and whites thronged to new opportunities in the postwar, industrial North. In this revisionist study, Donald Holley marshals impressive statistical and narrative evidence to show that mechanization occurred in the Delta region of Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi only after the region's oversupply of small farmers was reduced. He thereby corrects a long-standing belief that mechanization pushed labor off the land. Development of the mechanical cotton picker not only made possible the continuation of cotton cultivation in the post-plantation era, it helped free the region of Jim Crow laws as political power was relocated from farms to cities and thereby opened the door for the civil rights movement of the 1950s. Just as President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation freed African Americans from chattel slavery, the mechanical cotton picker freed laborers from the drudgery of the cotton harvest and brought the agricultural South into a period of greater prosperity.
Non-linear waves in chromatography III. Multicomponent Langmuir and Langmuir-like systems

This third instalment on non-linear waves examines in detail the chromatographic behavior of multicomponent systems whose sorption equilibria are uniformly competitive and without selectivity reversals. This very common class includes systems with multicomponent Langmuir isotherms, but is not restricted to them. An examination of particle velocities and wave velocities leads to a set of rules for what may and may not happen in a column if sorption equilibrium is of this type. As an example, all qualitative features of frontal analysis are deduced without calculation. The arguments also illustrate how, more generally, wave theory can be used to deduce chromatographic behavior from given equilibrium properties. In addition, an easy-to-use mathematical procedure is presented with which column responses in systems with Langmuir sorption isotherms can be calculated. The procedure is based on a transformation of the concentration variables. Compositions of plateau zones between waves, wave velocities, and sharpening criteria are obtained as simple algebraic expressions or conditions in terms of the values of the new variables in only the initial and entering fluids. The new variables are easily transformed back into concentrations where this is desired. Three fully calculated examples of five-component frontal analysis, separation of a three-component mixture by displacement development, and two-component elution from an overloaded column show how analytical solutions can be obtained for many cases of practical interest. As in Part II, the assumptions of ideal chromatography are taken for granted.
The metallography of oxide scales on metals

Abstract A method is described for mounting sheet specimens of oxidized metal to avoid separation between the specimen and plastic mount and thereby minimize edge rounding and damage to the polished cross section.
Thermodynamics of protonation of alkanolamines in aqueous solution to 325° C

Abstract Equilibrium quotients ( K ') for the protonation of diethanolamine (DEA), 2-(2-aminoethoxy) ethanol or diglycolamine (DGA), and N -methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) were determined potentiometrically over the ionic strength range 0.004–4.0 at 298.2 K. Corresponding Δ H values were determined by a flow calorimetric procedure at six temperatures from 299.9 to 422.1 K. At 299.9 K the protonation reactions become less exothermic, i.e. -Δ H decreases, in the order DGA (primary amine), DEA (secondary amine), MDEA (tertiary amine). From 299.9 to 422.1 K this order remains unchanged but the differences among the Δ H values decrease. The Δ H results are used, together with the 298.2 K lg K values (valid at ionic strength, μ = 0), to calculate the dissociation constants of the corresponding protonated alkanolamines from 298.2 to 423.2 K. The effect of μ on the lg K value (valid at μ = 0) for proton ionization from protonated alkanolamines is large. The change of lg K ' with μ is nearly insensitive to substitution of functional groups on the nitrogen atom. The isocoulombic reaction principle was used to extrapolate K and Δ H to 423.2 K. Equations are given describing lg K , Δ H , Δ S and Δ C p at μ = 0 from 298.2 to 423.2 K.
Reliable infrared line lists for 13 CO2 isotopologues up to E′=18,000 cm−1 and 1500 K, with line shape parameters

Abstract Reliable infrared (IR) line lists are reported for the 13 isotopologues of carbon dioxide in HITRAN notation: 626, 636, 628, 627, 828, 727, 827, 638, 637, 737, 838, 738, and 646. Three IR lists are available for each istotopologue: a complete list at 296 K, a reduced-size list at 296 K, plus a reduced-size list at 1000 K. They are denoted Ames-296K, Ames-296K.reduced and Ames-1000K.reduced. With J up to 150, and energy up to 18,000 cm−1 above the zero point energy, these lists are expected to cover the temperature range up to 1500 K. Line shape parameters including temperature dependence are calculated and reported for four temperature ranges: Mars, Earth, Venus, and Hotter (700–2000 K). Comparisons are made against the available transition data in the HITRAN2012 models. Line position accuracy for most transitions up to 10,000–13,000 cm−1 is better than 0.03–0.05 cm−1. Computed transition intensities agree well with most HITRAN data but there exist suspicious exceptions for isotopologues. These line lists will expedite CO2 IR experimental data analysis and provide the scientific community with trustworthy alternatives for unknown IR bands. These line lists may be combined with existing experimental databases to facilitate the analysis of future laboratory experiments or astronomical observations.
Thermodynamic theory of dislocation-enabled plasticity

The thermodynamic theory of dislocation-enabled plasticity is based on two unconventional hypotheses. The first of these is that a system of dislocations, driven by external forces and irreversibly exchanging heat with its environment, must be characterized by a thermodynamically defined effective temperature that is not the same as the ordinary temperature. The second hypothesis is that the overwhelmingly dominant mechanism controlling plastic deformation is thermally activated depinning of entangled pairs of dislocations. This paper consists of a systematic reformulation of this theory followed by examples of its use in analyses of experimentally observed phenomena including strain hardening, grain-size (Hall-Petch) effects, yielding transitions, and adiabatic shear banding.
Monte Carlo investigations of megavoltage cone-beam CT using thick, segmented scintillating detectors for soft tissue visualization

Megavoltage cone-beam computed tomography (MV CBCT) is a highly promising technique for providing volumetric patient position information in the radiation treatment room. Such information has the potential to greatly assist in registering the patient to the planned treatment position, helping to ensure accurate delivery of the high energy therapy beam to the tumor volume while sparing the surrounding normal tissues. Presently, CBCT systems using conventional MV active matrix flat-panel imagers (AMFPIs), which are commonly used in portal imaging, require a relatively large amount of dose to create images that are clinically useful. This is due to the fact that the phosphor screen detector employed in conventional MV AMFPIs utilizes only {approx}2% of the incident radiation (for a 6 MV x-ray spectrum). Fortunately, thick segmented scintillating detectors can overcome this limitation, and the first prototype imager has demonstrated highly promising performance for projection imaging at low doses. It is therefore of definite interest to examine the potential performance of such thick, segmented scintillating detectors for MV CBCT. In this study, Monte Carlo simulations of radiation energy deposition were used to examine reconstructed images of cylindrical CT contrast phantoms, embedded with tissue-equivalent objects. The phantoms were scanned at 6 MV using segmentedmore » detectors having various design parameters (i.e., detector thickness as well as scintillator and septal wall materials). Due to constraints imposed by the nature of this study, the size of the phantoms was limited to {approx}6 cm. For such phantoms, the simulation results suggest that a 40 mm thick, segmented CsI detector with low density septal walls can delineate electron density differences of {approx}2.3% and 1.3% at doses of 1.54 and 3.08 cGy, respectively. In addition, it was found that segmented detectors with greater thickness, higher density scintillator material, or lower density septal walls exhibit higher contrast-to-noise performance. Finally, the performance of various segmented detectors obtained at a relatively low dose (1.54 cGy) was compared with that of a phosphor screen similar to that employed in conventional MV AMFPIs. This comparison indicates that for a phosphor screen to achieve the same contrast-to-noise performance as the segmented detectors {approx}18 to 59 times more dose is required, depending on the configuration of the segmented detectors.« less
The role of the serotonergic system in locomotor recovery after spinal cord injury.

Serotonin (5-HT), a monoamine neurotransmitter synthesized in various populations of brainstem neurons, plays an important role in modulating the activity of spinal networks involved in vertebrate locomotion. Following spinal cord injury (SCI) there is a disruption of descending serotonergic projections to spinal motor areas, which results in a subsequent depletion in 5-HT, the dysregulation of serotonin transporters as well as the elevated expression, super-sensitivity and/or constitutive auto-activation of specific serotonin receptors. These changes in the serotonergic system can produce varying degrees of locomotor dysfunction through to paralysis. To date, various approaches targeting the different components of the serotonergic system have been employed to restore limb coordination and improve locomotor function in experimental models of SCI. These strategies have included pharmacological modulation of serotonergic receptors, through the administration of specific 5-HT receptor agonists, or by elevating the serotonin precursor 5-hydroxytryptophan, which produces a global activation of all classes of 5-HT receptors. Stimulation of these receptors leads to the activation of the locomotor central pattern generator (CPG) below the site of injury to facilitate or improve the quality and frequency of movements, particularly when used in concert with the activation of other monoaminergic systems or coupled with electrical stimulation. Another approach has been to employ cell therapeutics to replace the loss of descending serotonergic input to the CPG, either through transplanted fetal brainstem 5-HT neurons at the site of injury that can supply 5-HT to below the level of the lesion or by other cell types to provide a substrate at the lesion for encouraging serotonergic axon regrowth across the lesion to the caudal spinal cord for restoring locomotion.
Effects of Conjugated Linoleic Acid Supplementation During Resistance Training on Body Composition, Bone Density, Strength, and Selected Hematological Markers

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) are essential fatty acids that have been reported in animal studies to decrease catabolism, promote fat loss, increase bone density, enhance immunity, and serve as an antiatherogenic and anticarcinogenic agent. For this reason, CLA has been marketed as a supplement to promote weight loss and general health. CLA has also been heavily marketed to resistance-trained athletes as a supplement that may help lessen catabolism, decrease body fat, and promote greater gains in strength and muscle mass during training. Although basic research is promising, few studies have examined whether CLA supplementation during training enhances training adaptations and/or affects markers of health. This study evaluated whether CLA supplementation during resistance training affects body composition, strength, and/or general markers of catabolism and immunity. In a double-blind and randomized manner, 23 experienced, resistance-trained subjects were matched according to body mass and training volume and randomly assigned to supplement their diet with 9 g;pdd(-1) of an olive oil placebo or 6 g;pdd(-1) of CLA with 3 g;pdd(-1) of fatty acids for 28 days. Prior to and following supplementation, fasting blood samples, total body mass, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) determined body composition, and isotonic bench press and leg press 1 repetition maximums (1RMs) were determined. Results revealed that although some statistical trends were observed with moderate to large effect sizes, CLA supplementation did not significantly affect (p > 0.05) changes in total body mass, fat-free mass, fat mass, percent body fat, bone mass, strength, serum substrates, or general markers of catabolism and immunity during training. These findings indicate that CLA does not appear to possess significant ergogenic value for experienced resistance-trained athletes.
Layer Variations of Long-Term Depression in Rat Visual Cortex

In vitro long-term depression (LTD) is thought to be a model for the loss of cortical responsiveness to an eye deprived of vision during the critical period. Using whole cell recording, the present...