cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of reference lines on displacement thresholds at various durations of movement

Displacement thresholds were determined for durations of movement between 10 msec and 2.5 sec, with and without the presence of a reference line. For all durations of movement, displacement thresholds were lower when a reference line was present. The magnitude of this effect was essentially constant across all durations of movement. These data suggest that previous reports of differential effects of reference lines on long and short durations of movement depend upon the stimulus paradigm employed.
Making PCR: A Story of Biotechnology

Making PCR:. Story of Biotechnology. Paul Rabinow. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1996. vitt. 190 pp., notes, bibliography.
Neonatal and two-stage olfactory bulbectomy: effects on male hamster sexual behavior.

The copulatory behavior of sexually mature male hamsters was investigated following removal of the olfactory bulbs in ways which might be expected to minimize postoperative behavioral effects. Neither two-stage bulbectomy in adults nor a one-stage operation in neonates prevented the total abolition of sexual behavior consequent to bilateral olfactory bulb removal in most of the animals. However, two bulbectomized hamsters (one, one-stage; one, two-stage) displayed an atypical persistence of mating postoperatively. Their lesions, which included total bilateral destruction of the main and accessory bulbs and damage to adjacent olfactory tissue, were histologically comparable to the lesions in two other bulbectomized hamsters (from different studies) which also copulated postoperatively. The behavior of these atypical animals supports the hypothesis that male hamsters can display normal sexual behavior in the absence of olfactory stimulation.
How fast can you go on a bicycle

The bicycle provides a context-rich problem accessible to students in a first-year physics course, encircling several core physics principles such as conservation of total energy and angular momentum, dissipative forces, and vectors. In this article, I develop a simple numerical model that can be used by any first-year physics student to investigate the maximum speed of a road bicycle under various real-world conditions. The model calculates speed as a function of time for a given set of input parameters, such as the rider's input power (delivered through the drive train to the rear wheel) and frontal surface area.
Choosing an Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale: Is Item Randomization Necessary?

Objective: Although behavior rating scales are generally considered de riguer for best clinical practices in the diagnosis and medical management of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity di...
Defined oligomeric SV40 DNA: A sensitive probe of general recombination in somatic cells

We have constructed well defined oligomeric molecules of simian virus 40 (SV40) DNA as probes for investigating mechanisms by which cultured somatic cells recombine DNA. Restriction enzyme fragments from different temperature-sensitive mutants were joined in a head-to-tail orientation to create partial dimers 1.84 genome lengths in size. These molecules are too large to fit into a viral capsid. Therefore an assay that depends on production of progeny virus after infection with oligomeric DNA is a selective measure of precise conversion of oligomers to monomers. By constructing oligomers from appropriate combinations of temperature-sensitive DNAs, we have been able to study the conversion process in several defined regions of the SV40 genome. Our results indicate that conversion of oligomers to monomers occurs uniformly throughout the genome and is not dependent on normal viral DNA replication. These data indicate that conversion occurs primarily by general, homology-dependent recombination. At least one secondary mechanism that generates a low level of wild-type progeny was also detected. Studies with heteroduplex molecules indicate that repair of mismatched bases may be the secondary mechanism.
Infected hydrocele in neonate

A case of infected hydrocele associated with epididymal microabscess in a neonate is presented. Only 1 similar case is described and that was asssociated with a ruptured appendix. Attention is called to the unusual cause in this case, and emphasis is placed on the need for hospitalization and surgical exploration in cases of scrotal pathology in infants.
Cephalosporin antibiotics: Molecules that respond to different needs

Since the introduction of cephalothin in 1964, there has been a large number of cephalosporins synthesized and used clinically. Modification of the beta-acyl side chain has yielded compounds with stability against attack by plasmid and chromosomal beta-lactamases. The presence of methoxy groups at C-7 of the bicyclic cephalosporin nucleus has provided excellent activity against many anaerobic species. Changes in structure have also provided agents with extended half-lives, permitting twice a day dosing or single-dose prophylaxis. Cephalosporins clearly have come of age as agents to meet many different infectious needs.
Learning to draw a picture: The social context of an individual activity∗

Individual activities in a classroom, just as much as group activities, are constructed by persons in a social context. In this paper, one period of nursery school drawing activities is characterized in order to examine drawing and learning how to draw in that context. The first section is an examination of the larger social scene. It is shown how a child's learning to plan and produce a drawing could be facilitated by the teacher's work in organizing the classroom as individual tasks. The second section is an examination of each task as a separate teacher‐child tutorial. It is suggested that a child could be learning to produce a drawing on the basis of the teacher's talk with him, particularly her work in soliciting and acknowledging his verbal formulations of the drawing.
The new wave of private capital inflows : push or pull?

Abstract This paper studies the determinants and sustainability of the widespread private capital inflows to middle-income countries after 1989. The key question is whether these flows are mostly ‘pulled’ by attractive domestic conditions or ‘pushed’ by unfavorable conditions in developed countries. An analytical model focusing on country risk is developed and used empirically. It is argued that the observed improvement in country creditworthiness is mostly due to the decline in international interest rates, and that therefore its importance as a proximate cause does not support the ‘pull’ interpretation. All things considered, in most countries the key answer that emerges is ‘push’.
Inhibition of DNA repair in ultraviolet-irradiated human cells by hydroxyurea.

Abstract The effect on DNA repair in ultraviolet-irradiated human skin fibroblasts by hydroxyurea has been examined in this study using three independent methods for measuring DNA repair: the 5-bromodeoxyuridine photolysis assay which measures DNA repair replication, chromatographic measurement of thymine-containing dimers, and measurement of specific ultraviolet-endonucleasesensitive sites in irradiated DNA. Little effect of hydroxyurea was observed at the concentration of 2 mM, which is often used to inhibit semiconservative DNA synthesis; however, 10 mM hydroxyurea resulted in marked inhibition (65–70%) of excision repair. This inhibition was accompanied by a possible doubling in the size of the repaired region. The accumulation of large numbers of single-strand breaks following ultraviolet irradiation and hydroxyurea incubation seen by other investigators was not observed with the normal skin fibroblasts used in this study. A comparison of hydroxyurea effects on the different DNA repair assays indicates inhibition of one step in DNA repair also results in varying degrees of inhibition of other steps as well.
Race and class consciousness among southern blacks

The present inquiry was an attempt to determine the levels of race consciousness and class consciousness among blacks of a southern city. The relationships between selected sociodemographic variables and race consciousness and class consciousness, respectively, were examined. Middle‐class blacks were found to be more race conscious than class conscious. Lower class blacks were also found to be more race conscious than class conscious. Comparatively, lower class blacks were more class conscious and race conscious than middle class blacks. Age, sex, and occupation were not significantly related to collective race consciousness. However, age was positively related to individual race consciousness. Males have slightly higher collective race consciousness and less individual race consciousness than females. When testing for interaction among the variables, it was found that only two combinations were significant: sex and social class, as related to individual race consciousness; and age and class consciousness...
Outcome Measures in Medication Trials for Substance Use Disorders

There are multiple therapeutic options to treat tobacco (e.g., nicotine replacement therapies, varenicline) and alcohol (e.g., naltrexone, acamprosate) use disorders. In contrast, there are currently no FDA-approved pharmacotherapies to treat stimulant (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine) use disorders. Based on a commentary published by FDA staff, a period of sustained abstinence appears required for regulatory approval of a first-in-class medication to treat stimulant use disorders. Certainly, achieving abstinence remains the goal of treatment in both real world medical practice and clinical trials. However, if a medication can help patients to significantly reduce stimulant use (short of achieving a sustained abstinence) while attempting to quit, such reductions could confer meaningful benefit. The FDA has adopted the “percentage of subjects with no heavy drinking days” as an endpoint for pharmacotherapy trials in alcohol use disorders; this suggests there may be a potential path forward for developing analogous, non-abstinence endpoints for stimulant use disorder trials. However, reductions in drug use per se (short of abstinence) must have prognostic value in order to be considered an acceptable basis for FDA approval. Thus, even if a medication can provide sustained reductions in drug use, the challenge ahead is to demonstrate that this “success” is accompanied by benefits that accrue in dimensions readily understood by patients and their families, and of sufficient value to be reimbursed by third party payers. Emerging data sets discussed in this paper indicate that endpoints other than abstinence may ultimately be validated as outcome measures in pharmacotherapy trials for stimulant use disorders.
Let's Reflect: The Professional Portfolio as a Prerequisite for Internship

Abstract The increased use of professional portfolios as a prerequisite for student teaching is in evidence. The College of Education of a large, metropolitan Central Florida university, adopted the teacher education paradigm of “The Facilitating Reflective Educator” to encourage the development of its students as reflective practitioners. A platform for reflective writing, the professional portfolio was incorporated into the teacher education program, as an admission requirement for student internship. Students are required to submit artifacts termed “evidence” into portfolio sections representing areas deemed essential to effective teaching and to reflect upon these pieces of evidence. The rationale behind portfolio usage, the implementation and continuance of the portfolio requirement, portfolio guidelines, student portfolio development workshops, portfolio reviewer training sessions, and the evaluation process are discussed.
Differential measurements of Raman coherence and two-exciton correlations in quantum wells

Quantum beats involving the light-hole and heavy-hole excitons in GaAs quantum wells are studied using both conventional and novel temporally gated differential detection techniques. The contributions of the exciton-exciton correlations are separated from those of the intervalence-band Raman coherence and the interband (population) coherence by monitoring the signal in the probe direction and by taking advantage of the polarization selection rules for the excitonic transitions. The results are shown to be in agreement with a theoretical analysis based on the dynamics-controlled truncation formalism.
The role of bottom-up confirmation in the phonemic restoration illusion

Phonemic restoration is an illusion in which listeners hear spoken words as intact, even though parts of them have been replaced by an extraneous sound. An improved methodology was used to investigate how much the illusion depends upon the bottom-up confirmation of expectations generated at higher levels. A powerful bottom-up factor was phone class of the sound to be restored, and its acoustic similarity to the sound that replaced it. When white noise was the replacement sound, fricatives were better restored than vowels, whereas the pattern reversed with a pure tone replacement. Including a short silence period increased restoration of stop consonants. The data indicate that phonemic restoration depends upon the interplay between the listener's expectations and the acoustic signal. Language: en
Prediction of convection-enhanced drug delivery to the human brain

The treatment for many neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) involves the delivery of large molecular weight drugs to the brain. The blood brain barrier, however, prevents many therapeutic molecules from entering the CNS. Despite much effort in studying drug dispersion with animal models, accurate drug targeting in humans remains a challenge. This article proposes an engineering approach for the systematic design of targeted drug delivery into the human brain. The proposed method predicts achievable volumes of distribution for therapeutic agents based on first principles transport and chemical kinetics models as well as accurate reconstruction of the brain geometry from patient-specific diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging. The predictive capabilities of the methodology will be demonstrated for invasive intraparenchymal drug administration. A systematic procedure to determine the optimal infusion and catheter design parameters to maximize penetration depth and volumes of distribution in the target area will be discussed. The computational results are validated with agarose gel phantom experiments. The methodology integrates interdisciplinary expertise from medical imaging and engineering. This approach will allow physicians and scientists to design and optimize drug administration in a systematic fashion.
3D Capacitive Sensor Array for Detection of Neural Responses

Neural degenerative diseases and traumatic injuries affect millions of people worldwide, motivating the development of neural prosthetic interfaces to restore sensory or motor function in affected individuals. Advances in neural sensing and stimulation interface technology will allow a more comprehensive understanding of neural function while leading to the development of hybrid biological-electronic sensor devices for robust, functioning neural prosthetic systems. Current techniques of neural activity sensing and stimulation employ multi-electrode arrays (MEAs) that typically incorporate metal electrodes and measure or apply currents via an electrochemical junction, leading to corrosion and charge transfer across the electrode-tissue interface. High-density neural interface technology will require active circuitry within the implant; the device must withstand corrosion and induce minimal damage at the electrode/tissue interface. The work shown here demonstrates a prototype neural interface device based on capacitive coupling through hafnium oxide encapsulation of a novel 3D device architecture, advancing neural sensing technology toward long-term implantable neural interfaces.
Getting to the Heart of the Matter: What Faculty Tell Us about How Our Collections Support Student Learning

In 2010, librarians at IWU's The Ames Library embarked on a multi‐year collection review process. This is an evalu‐ ation and prioritization project for assessing and building our collection as a whole. Our purpose is to not only evaluate what we have now, but also identify what resources, in which formats, best support student learning. The centerpiece of the review is one‐on‐one interviews conducted by librarians with each full‐time faculty member in their liaison subject areas/departments. We asked faculty to reflect on how our collections (in all formats, includ‐ ing electronic) meet their pedagogical needs and support student research, as a way of helping us improve our decision‐making about our collections and anticipate future needs. This presentation will focus on what questions we asked our faculty, what we learned from the interviews, and how these data inform a number of collection‐ related initiatives (including a long‐overdue weeding project, an assessment of our materials fund allocation prac‐ tices, and revision of our collection development policy), as well as our information literacy program. The audience will be asked for their observations about the questions asked of faculty and suggestions for additional ways that these data can be used.
“It Depends on the Cop:” Street-Based Sex Workers’ Perspectives on Police Patrol Officers

Based upon 50 interviews that took place over the course of 3 years of ethnographic research with 100 female street-based sex workers in Denver, Colorado, the tenth largest city in the United States, this article explores the cultural ethos informing women’s interactions with police and the tools women use to navigate their struggles with homelessness, addiction, and the everyday violence of the street. It identifies three beliefs about patrol officers that reflect the complexities of women’s interactions with police: arrest is indiscriminate in a “known prostitution area,” arrest avoidance strategies necessitate interpreting behavioral cues while showing respect to officers and forming affective bonds with potential clients, and officers may abuse their authority. This belief system is part of an environment in which women’s stigmatized behaviors are highly visible and constitute an increased risk of negative police encounters. Changes to policing practices remain unlikely while women’s sex work and drug use activities remain criminalized. Findings presented support arguments for decriminalizing prostitution as well as the implementation of harm reduction-oriented social policy, including services that inform women about their rights in the criminal justice system while facilitating awareness of how their individual lives intersect with gender, class, and racial bias in a sociolegal system that stigmatizes and criminalizes their choices.
Navicular drop as a composite measure of excessive pronation

The measure of navicular drop has been used as an indicator of pronation at the foot. It is defined as the distance the navicular tuberosity moves in standing, as the subtalar joint is allowed to move from its neutral position to a relaxed position. The purposes of this study were to test the reliability of a method to measure navicular drop and to assess the relationships among measures of forefoot to rearfoot position, subtalar joint neutral position, and navicular drop. The results support traditional biomechanical theory but indicate that other factors contribute significantly to navicular drop.
Permutation decoding for binary codes from lattice graphs

By finding explicit PD sets, we show that permutation decoding can be used for the binary code obtained from the row span over the field F"2 of an adjacency matrix of the lattice graph L"2(n) for any n>=5.
A logical starting point for developing priorities for lizard and snake ecotoxicology: A review of available data

Reptiles, specifically lizards and snakes, usually are excluded from environmental contamination studies and ecological risk assessments. This brief summary of available lizard and snake environmental contaminant data is presented to assist in the development of priorities for lizard and snake ecotoxicology. Most contaminant studies were not conducted recently, list animals found dead or dying after pesticide application, report residue concentrations after pesticide exposure, compare contaminant concentrations in animals from different areas, compare residue concentrations found in different tissues and organs, or compare changes in concentrations over time. The biological significance of the contaminant concentrations is rarely studied. A few recent studies, especially those conducted on modern pesticides, link the contaminant effects with exposure concentrations. Nondestructive sampling techniques for determining organic and inorganic contaminant concentrations in lizards and snakes recently have been developed. Studies that relate exposure, concentration, and effects of all types of environmental contaminants on lizards and snakes are needed. Because most lizards eat insects, studies on the exposure, effects, and accumulation of insecticides in lizards, and their predators, should be a top priority. Because all snakes are upper-trophic-level carnivores, studies on the accumulation and effects of contaminants that are known to bioaccumulate or biomagnify up the food chain should be the top priority.
Application of the locally corrected Nystro/spl uml/m method to the EFIE for the linear dipole antenna

The locally corrected Nystro/spl uml/m method is used to solve the electric field integral equation to determine the currents and input impedance of a hollow linear dipole. The results suggest that the Nystro/spl uml/m method, despite the use of a discontinuous underlying representation for the currents, can produce currents and input impedance comparable in accuracy to those obtained by the method of moments.
Integration of instructional approaches through media combination in an undergraduate information systems course

Reviews instructional approaches based on the use of different media to provide examples of strategies and evaluation tools for media integration. Uses an introductory information systems undergraduate course taught at the George Washington University as an example.
Constraint design principle of large-displacement flexure systems

In the family of large-range flexure systems, large-deflection flexural pivots, linear-motion guiding stages, XY compliant parallel micromanipulators (CPMs) are commonly used in a variety of fields. The issue related to their design, however, is concerned with minor literatures. In this paper, we focus on the design of these large-range flexure systems from the view of constraint-based design principle. The proposed approach is established upon the combination of type synthesis and improved stiffness design within the framework of screw theory and compliance transformation. In this study, graphic-based type synthesis of large-range flexure systems with symmetrical geometry and composed of constraint elements is first provided for selecting those useful configurations in an intuitive way. Subsequently, a compliance-based compensation approach is presented which is applicable for synthesizing large-range flexure systems that eliminate parasitic errors. Finally, a case study for design of XY CPMs is provided to illustrate the constraint-based approach.
Safety analysis of usage control authorization models

The usage control (UCON) model was introduced as a unified approach to capture a number of extensions for traditional access control models. While the policy specification flexibility and expressive power of this model have been studied in previous work, as a related and fundamental problem, the safety analysis of UCON has not been explored. This paper presents two fundamental safety results for UCONA, a sub-model of UCON only considering authorizations. In UCONA, an access control decision is based on the subject and/or the object attributes, which can be changed as the side-effects of using the access right, resulting in possible changes to future access control decisions. Hence the safety question in UCONA is all the more pressing since every access can potentially enable additional permissions due to the mutability of attributes in UCON. In this paper, first we show that the safety problem is in general undecidable. Then, we show that a restricted form of UCONA with finite attribute value domains and acyclic attribute creation relation has a decidable safety property. The decidable model maintains good expressive power as shown by specifying an RBAC system with a specific user-role assignment scheme and a DRM application with consumable rights.
Using combinatorics to screen Bacillus thuringiensis isolates for toxicity against Manduca sexta and Plutella xylostella

Screening Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) isolates or strains for toxicity has traditionally been performed with one bacterial isolate at a time versus a specific insect. By testing Bt strains in groups, we more rapidly identified 28 of 147 Bt isolates as toxic to either diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.), or tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta (L.). The use of freeze-dried diet and directed pooling of isolates for toxicity testing decreased the number of bioassays required to identify toxic strains by as much as 60% for a given group of isolates. Three of the B. thuringiensis isolates were more toxic to diamondback moth than a standard commercial strain. This method parallels the concept of combinatorics used for screening compounds in the pharmaceutical industry by the use of bacterial strains rather than chemicals.
Lymphocytic responses and the gradual hippocampal neuron loss following infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV).

Abstract Infection of rats with LCMV is known to cause a bi-phasic neurodegeneration characterized by acute T lymphocyte-mediated cerebellar damage, followed by gradual hippocampal neuron loss that occurs by an undefined mechanism. We found infiltration of CD8+ T-cells (but not CD4+ or NK cells) in the hippocampus which correlated with the acute phase, but not the chronic hippocampal degenerative phase. While immunosuppression of T lymphocytes protected the cerebellum and revealed the infection of corticohippocampal glia, the degeneration in the hippocampus was unabated. These data suggest that T lymphocytes control glial infection and mediate degeneration in the cerebellum but not the hippocampus.
Polarization-dependent detection of Impulsive Stimulated Raman Scattering in alpha-quartz

We have, for the first time, stimulated and detected both the A- and E-symmetry Raman lines in alpha-quartz using ultrafast Impulsive Stimulated Raman Scattering. Using a heterodyne detection scheme along with a Transient Grating set-up, we match the prediction of stimulated Raman theory. Experimentally-determined lineshapes will be presented and discussed.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE PRODUCTION OF ETHANOL BY FUNGI AND YEASTS

queint disappearance of the maj oritv of these are far-reaching. MIanifestly, the continuous and extensive transformations in the cellular pattern of the cambium must have been accompanied bv intercellular adjustments of more profound nature and of more rapid consummation than hitherto assumed. It should be emphasized that the plhenomenon of repeated anticlinal divisions with subsequent disappearance of many of the new-formed initials was not restricted to the vicinity of abnormal rays. Investigations carried out in this laboratory indicated considerable variation in different parts of the tree and from one specimen to another, but on the whole activity in the cambium was such as to require extensive intercellular adjustments. It is hoped to report more fully on these investigations at a later date.
The Jupiter-Io Connection: An Alfvén Engine in Space

Much has been learned about the electromagnetic interaction between Jupiter and its satellite Io from in situ observations. Io, in its motion through the Io plasma torus at Jupiter, continuously generates an Alfven wing that carries two billion kilowatts of power into the jovian ionosphere. Concurrently, Io is acted upon by a J x B force tending to propel it out of the jovian system. The energy source for these processes is the rotation of Jupiter. This unusual planet-satellite coupling serves as an archetype for the interaction of a large moving conductor with a magnetized plasma, a problem of general space and astrophysical interest.
Sequential methods for parametric survival models

SUMMARY The asymptotic sequential distribution is derived for score tests and maximum likelihood estimates in parametric survival models in the presence of nuisance parameters where individuals enter over time and the data are subject to right censoring. It is shown that these sequential tests and estimates have an independent increments structure. This allows the use of standard group sequential methods for early stopping.
The role of oxygen in toxic shock syndrome

Abstract The etiology of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) has been extensively investigated in recent years. It is generally accepted that the causative organism is Staphylococcus aureus . Certain strains of this bacterium produce one or more toxins which are thought to be responsible for the sumptoms associated with TSS. There is no general agreement, however, as to why menstruating women who use tampons are of particular risk for developing this disease. More recently, TSS has also been associated with the use of absorbent contraceptive sponges. In this paper I will present evidence that the introduction of oxygen into the vaginal cavity during tampon insertion is responsible in part for the development of TSS. Furthermore, I will discuss several methods for the safe removal of this exogenous oxygen.
Effect of ethanol on pancreatic and biliary secretions in humans.

The effect of various doses of ethanol on pancreatic and biliary secretions was studied in normal subjects and in patients with alcoholic pancreatitis. The composition of duodenal aspirates after ethanol administration was compared to that obtained after isotonic saline administration. A multilumen tube was used to perfuse a nonabsorbable marker (phenol red) into the duodenum, to collect duodenal secretions, and to perfuse saline or ethanol 45 cm beyond the ligament of Treitz. After the equilibration period, three 20-minute basal collections were obtained, followed by nine more collections after ethanol was started. Jejunal perfusion of isotonic (1.39%) alcohol, at rates at which no significant blood ethanol levels could be detected, did not cause changes in pancreatic or biliary secretions in either group. On the other hand, jejunal or intravenous alcohol administration in doses of 1 g/kg body weight caused marked reductions in volume and outputs of pancreatic enzymes, bicarbonate, and bile salts. The decrease in outputs was accompanied by a corresponding diminution in concentrations. The changes observed indicate that acute administration of large doses of ethanol causes rapid changes in the composition of duodenal aspirates in humans, which cannot be totally explained by postulating a spasm of the sphincter of Oddi.
The effects of appeal on children's comprehension and recall of content in educational television programs ☆

This exploratory study investigated the effects of audience appeal on fourth-graders' (n = 25) and fifth-graders' (n = 24) comprehension of and selective attention to narrative and academic content in educational program segments. Students were shown two program segments that focused on one of two math concepts, perimeter or scale, and that were rated as high or low in appeal. After each segment, they provided written answers to questions designed to elicit recall of educational and narrative content. Findings indicated that most students recalled relevant narrative content. Students showed greater conceptual understanding of the math concepts after viewing segments featuring the concept of perimeter and segments rated low in appeal. Contrary to expectations, students indicated greater confidence in their ability to solve problems shown in the low appeal segments. Greater confidence was also displayed for segments featuring the concept of perimeter.
Influence of design concept and liquid properties on fuel injector performance

An experimental investigation of the influence of design concept and liquid properties on fuel injector performance of airblast atomizers is carried out. Three injectors with distinctly different fuel filming concepts were employed in this program. In the experiments, the nozzle operating conditions (namely, air/liquid ratio and air pressure drop) and liquid properties were varied. Drop sizes were measured with a laser diffraction instrument and a photographic technique was employed for cone angle measurement. The results indicate that the method of spreading the liquid into a film has a significant effect on atomization quality. Also, surface tension has the most dominant effect on mean drop size. The drop size distribution data followed closely the modified Rosin-Rammler type under almost all conditions. Equations to correlate mean drop sizes to distribution parameters were derived to facilitate the prediction of the range of droplets in the spray.
Langmuir Probe Measurements in the Plume of a Pulsed Plasma Thruster

Anexperimentalapparatususingtriplelangmuirprobeswasdesignedtoobtainelectrontemperatureanddensity in theplume of a laboratory-model pulsed plasma thruster (PPT)operating at discharge energy levels of 5, 20, and 40 J. Electron temperature and density were obtained on two planes parallel and perpendicular to the thruster electrodes passing through the thruster’ s centerline. Measurements were obtained for radial distances of 6, 10, 12, 14,16,18,and20cmandforpolaranglesof10,20,30,and45degwithrespectto thecenteroftheTee on ® propellant face.Plumepropertiesshowlargeangularvariationontheperpendiculartotheelectrodesplanebutsmallvariation on the parallel plane cone rming the asymmetry of the PPT plume. Electron density and temperature decrease with increasing radial distance from the Tee on surface. The average maximum temperature is between 2 and 4 eV for all discharge energy levels considered. The average maximum electron density is 1 6 £ 10 20 , 1 6 £ 10 21 , and 1 8 £ 10 21 m i 3 for the 5-, 20-, and 40-J discharge. The time-average electron density increases with increasing discharge energy and is in the range between 10 19 and 2 £ 10 20 m i 3 for 5 J, 3 £ 10 19 and 10 21 m i 3 for 20 J, and 5 £ 10 19 and 1 4 £ 10 21 m i 3 for 40 J. Nomenclature An = area of probe n 1;2;3 ds = probe sheath thickness e
Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy: a trinucleotide-repeat expansion neurodegenerative disease

Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) is an X-linked, adult-onset motor neuronopathy that is caused by expansion of a trinucleotide (CAG) repeat in the androgen-receptor gene. The length of this repeat varies as it is passed down through SBMA families, and correlates inversely with the age of onset of the disease. The motor-neuron degeneration that occurs in this disease is probably caused by a toxic gain of function in the androgen-receptor protein. Subsequent to the identification of the mutation in SBMA, other inherited neurodegenerative diseases have been found to be caused by the expansion of CAG repeats in the coding regions of other genes. Because these diseases probably share a common pathogenesis, investigation of SBMA might help to determine a general mechanism of neuronal degeneration.
Anatomical connections between the anterior and posterodorsal sub-regions of the medial amygdala: Integration of odor and hormone signals

In many rodent species, such as Syrian hamsters, reproductive behavior requires neural integration of chemosensory information and steroid hormone cues. The medial amygdala processes both of these signals through anatomically distinct sub-regions; the anterior region (MeA) receives substantial chemosensory input, but contains few steroid receptor-labeled neurons, whereas the posterodorsal region (MePD) receives less chemosensory input, but contains dense populations of androgen and estrogen receptors. Importantly, these sub-regions have considerable reciprocal connections, and previous studies in our laboratory have shown that functional interactions between MeA and MePD are required for the preference to investigate opposite-sex odors in male hamsters. We therefore hypothesized that chemosensory and hormone signals are conveyed directly between MeA and MePD. To test this hypothesis, we injected the retrograde tracer, cholera toxin B (CTB), into either MeA or MePD of male subjects and identified whether retrogradely labeled cells within MePD or MeA, respectively, expressed (1) Fos protein following exposure to female or male odors or (2) androgen receptors (AR). Approximately 36% of CTB-labeled cells within MeA (that project to MePD) also expressed Fos following exposure to either social odor, compared to the only 13% of CTB-labeled cells within MePD (that project to MeA) that also expressed odor-induced Fos. In contrast, 57% of CTB-labeled cells within MePD also contained AR, compared to the 28% of CTB-labeled cells within MeA that were double-labeled for AR/CTB. These results provide the first anatomical evidence that chemosensory and hormone cues are conveyed directly between MeA and MePD. Furthermore, these data suggest that chemosensory information is conveyed primarily from MeA to MePD, whereas hormone information is conveyed primarily from MePD to MeA. More broadly, the interactions between MeA and MePD may represent a basic mechanism by which the brain integrates information about social cues in the environment with hormonal indices of reproductive state.
Structural, Biochemical, and Functional Studies on the Regulation of the S. Cerevisiae AMPK Homolog SNF1

The 5’AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a master regulator of energy homeostasis. AMPK is activated by a high AMP:ATP ratio, and functions as a metabolic thermostat. By sensing when energy is low, AMPK upregulates energy-producing pathways (e.g., glycolysis, glucose transport, fatty acid oxidation, food intake) while downregulating energy-consuming pathways (e.g., gluconeogenesis, fatty acid synthesis). Due to its central role in controlling these processes, AMPK represents a key drug target for both diabetes and obesity. In S. cerevisiae, the AMPK homolog Sucrose Non-Fermenting 1 (SNF1) controls many of the same pathways as AMPK and, like AMPK, is a heterotrimeric protein comprised of a catalytic alpha subunit and regulatory beta and gamma subunits. We present here structures of the heterotrimer core of SNF1 and the catalytic protein kinase domain/auto-inhibitory domain (KD-AID) of the alpha subunit. Our studies elucidate important differences between SNF1 and higher eukaryotic AMPKs, especially with regards to AMP activation. In addition, we provide the first structural insight into the Regulatory Sequence (RS) of the alpha subunit, a region that interacts with the gamma subunit of SNF1. GST pulldown experiments demonstrate strong, direct interactions between the RS and the heterotrimer core. These interactions can be greatly reduced in vitro by the introduction of single-site mutations, although no effect is observed in vivo. We also probed the role of an AID N-terminal to the RS through crystallographic studies of a KD-AID protein. Interestingly, the AID in this structure is disordered, but the KD reveals a novel DFG-out conformation blocking ATP binding to the active site. Together, these data indicate that the RS is constitutively bound to the SNF1 gamma subunit, and the AID may be required to regulate SNF1 activity.
Periganglionic inflammation elicits a distally radiating pain hypersensitivity by promoting COX-2 induction in the dorsal root ganglion

We have developed a model in which inflammation contiguous to and within a dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was generated by local application of complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) to the L4 lumbar spinal nerve as it exits from the intervertebral foramen. The periganglionic inflammation (PGI) elicited a marked reduction in withdrawal threshold to mechanical stimuli and an increase in heat pain sensitivity in the ipsilateral hindpaw in the absence of any hindpaw inflammation. The pain sensitivity appeared within hours and lasted for a week. The PGI also induced a prominent increase in IL-1 β and TNF-α levels in the DRG and of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in neurons and satellite cells. A selective COX-2 inhibitor reduced the PGI-induced hyperalgesia. We also show that IL-1 β induces COX-2 expression and prostaglandin release in DRG neurons in vitro in a MAP kinase-dependent fashion. The COX-2 induction was prevented by ERK and p38 inhibitors. We conclude that periganglionic inflammation increases cytokine levels, including IL-1 β, leading to the transcription of COX-2 and prostaglandin production in the affected DRG, and thereby to the development of a dermatomally distributed pain hypersensitivity.
Effects of simulated Venusian atmosphere on polymeric materials

Simulated Venusian atmosphere effects on polymeric plastic and rubber materials, comparing with high temperature air and nitrogen exposures
CLOSED-FORM SOLUTION FOR OPTIMAL CONTROL OF LAMINATED PLATE

Abstract A closed-form solution for the optimal control of flexural vibration of simply supported symmetric laminated plate is obtained. The method of designing the optimal steady-state regulator is employed. Results for both full state feedback and output feedback are presented. Results may be useful for the purpose of comparing the numerical model and experimental results.
Simultaneous input and state smoothing and its application to oceanographic flow field reconstruction

Forward-backward smoothing of unknown inputs and states of a nonlinear system is studied in this paper, motivated by oceanographic flow field reconstruction using a swarm of buoyancy-controlled drogues. A Bayesian paradigm is developed first to provide a statistics based solution framework. A nonlinear maximum a posteriori (MAP) optimization problem is established within the framework as a means to achieve simultaneous input and state smoothing, which is solved by the iteration based Gauss-Newton method. Application of the proposed method to reconstruction of a complex three-dimensional flow field is investigated via simulation studies.
Changes in lattice-strain profiles around a fatigue crack through the retardation period after overloading

An overload was applied during a fatigue-crack-growth experiment, resulting in a temporary decrease in crack-growth rates, i.e., a retardation period. Neutron diffraction was used to investigate the retardation phenomenon by mapping the changes in the lattice-strain profiles around the fatigue-crack tip in a series of compact-tension (CT) specimens, which were fatigued to various stages through the retardation period after the overload. Following the overload, compressive-strain fields were observed along the loading direction close to the crack tip. As the crack grows out of the retardation period, the residual compressive strains decreased.
Strategies to Manage Paraplegia Risk After Endovascular Stent Repair of Descending Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms

Background Paraplegia is a recognized complication after endovascular stent repair of descending thoracic aortic aneurysms. A management algorithm employing neurologic assessment, somatosensory evoked potential monitoring, arterial pressure augmentation, and cerebrospinal fluid drainage evolved to decrease the risk of postoperative paraplegia. Methods Patients in thoracic aortic aneurysm stent trials from 1999 to 2004 were analyzed for paraplegic complications. Lower extremity strength was assessed after anesthesia and in the intensive care unit. A loss of lower extremity somatosensory evoked potential or lower extremity strength was treated emergently to maintain a mean arterial pressure 90 mmHg or greater and a cerebrospinal fluid pressure 10 mm Hg or less. Results Seventy-five patients (male = 49, female=26, age=75 ± 7.4 years) had descending thoracic aortic aneurysms repaired with endovascular stenting. Lumbar cerebrospinal fluid drainage (n = 23) and somatosensory evoked potential monitoring (n = 15) were performed selectively in patients with significant aneurysm extent or with prior abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (n = 17). Spinal cord ischemia occurred in 5 patients (6.6%); two had lower extremity somatosensory evoked potential loss after stent deployment and 4 developed delayed-onset paraplegia. Two had full recovery in response to arterial pressure augmentation alone. Two had full recovery and one had near-complete recovery in response to arterial pressure augmentation and cerebrospinal fluid drainage. Spinal cord ischemia was associated with retroperitoneal bleed (n = 1), prior abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (n = 2), iliac artery injury (n = 1), and atheroembolism (n = 1). Conclusions Early detection and intervention to augment spinal cord perfusion pressure was effective for decreasing the magnitude of injury or preventing permanent paraplegia from spinal cord ischemia after endovascular stent repair of descending thoracic aortic aneurysm. Routine somatosensory evoked potential monitoring, serial neurologic assessment, arterial pressure augmentation, and cerebrospinal fluid drainage may benefit patients at risk for paraplegia.
Atoh1-Lineal Neurons Are Required for Hearing and for the Survival of Neurons in the Spiral Ganglion and Brainstem Accessory Auditory Nuclei

Atoh1 is a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor necessary for the specification of inner ear hair cells and central auditory system neurons derived from the rhombic lip. We used the Cre-loxP system and two Cre-driver lines (Egr2(Cre) and Hoxb1(Cre)) to delete Atoh1 from different regions of the cochlear nucleus (CN) and accessory auditory nuclei (AAN). Adult Atoh1-conditional knock-out mice (Atoh1(CKO)) are behaviorally deaf, have diminished auditory brainstem evoked responses, and have disrupted CN and AAN morphology and connectivity. In addition, Egr2; Atoh1(CKO) mice lose spiral ganglion neurons in the cochlea and AAN neurons during the first 3 d of life, revealing a novel critical period in the development of these neurons. These new mouse models of predominantly central deafness illuminate the importance of the CN for support of a subset of peripheral and central auditory neurons.
Short stature and overweight in infants of Western Massachusetts

A cross‐sectional study of the nutritional status of 268 urban white, black and Puerto Rican infants, age 1–26 weeks, of three economic levels, was undertaken between November 1972 and March 1974. Subjects were selected at random. Mothers were interviewed and infants measured and weighed by a nutritionist during a single home visit. Crown‐heel length, weight and weight/height ratio of 254 full‐term infants are discussed. Physical characteristics of the children suggest that their diet was limited more in quality than in quantity. Limitations in linear growth and excessive weight gain were particularly noted in many boys under three months of age of all ethnic and socioeconomic groups, when compared to percentile distributions of the Child Research Council. Girls were generally less heavy for their length than boys, but girls from low income families tended to be heavier for their length than those from middle and high income families. Low income black children were longer than low income white and Puerto ...