cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Self-service data protection for stateful containers

Data protection in containerized environments poses several challenges arising from the need for self-service and the resulting churn in the environment. We present a self-managing backup system for containerized frameworks designed to work for users with little knowledge of the underlying infrastructure. Our system presents users with an interface which allows them to interact with data protection service in the same way used for managing their applications. Additionally, we present a backup scheduler to honor user expressed data protection guarantees while reacting to resource fluctuations on the underlying shared infrastructure. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our system with thousands of request having different data protection guarantees in an environment with various bandwidth and IO patterns.
Multi-Node Open-Loop Distributed Beamforming Based on Scalable, High-Accuracy Ranging

We present a distributed antenna array supporting open-loop distributed beamforming at 1.5 GHz. Based on a scalable, high-accuracy internode ranging technique, we demonstrate open-loop beamforming experiments using three transmitting nodes. To support distributed beamforming without feedback from the destination, the relative positions of the nodes in the distributed array must be known with accuracies below λ/15 of the beamforming carrier frequency to ensure that the array maintains at least 90% coherent beamforming gain at the receive location. For operations in the microwave range, this leads to range estimation accuracies of centimeters or lower. We present a scalable, high-accuracy waveform and new approaches to refine range measurements to significantly improve the estimation accuracy. Using this waveform with a three-node array, we demonstrate high-accuracy ranging simultaneously between multiple nodes, from which phase corrections on two secondary nodes are implemented to maintain beamforming with the primary node, thereby supporting open-loop distributed beamforming. Upon movement of the nodes, the range estimation is used to dynamically update the phase correction, maintaining beamforming as the nodes move. We show the first open-loop distributed beamforming at 1.5 GHz with a three-node array, demonstrating the ability to implement and maintain phase-based beamforming without feedback from the destination.
Monitoring high water table effects on corn growth and water quality in growth chambers and field lysimeters

The effect of two water table depths (surface vs. water table at 15 cm depth) and four stress levels (equivalent to 90, 180, 270, and 360 cmdays of stress as defined by SEW^g concept) on corn vegetative growth was investigated in environmentally-controlled growth chambers. Canopy height, stem height, leaf area, and dry matter were compared for both water table conditions at each stress level. All growth parameters were significantly larger for water table at 15 cm depth than for surface flooding at all four stress levels. This study indicated that SEW^Q concept does not accurately quantify excessivesoil-water stress and its relationship to crop response. Leaf area was found to be the growth parameter most sensitive to excessive soil water and the best indicator for predicting shoot dry matter of corn. Greater dry matter yields with water table at 15 cm depth than with surface flooding suggest that better crop growth could be obtained if water tables were maintained at depths below 15-cm rather than at the surface.
The effect of hypoglycemia on fetal brain function and metabolism

Abstract The effect of hypoglycemia on brain function in terms of the electroencephalogram (EEG) and on brain metabolism in terms of arteriovenous differences in substrate concentrations was studied in 11 in utero fetal sheep experiments. Fetal hypoglycemia was induced by an infusion of insulin to the ewe that resulted in maternal hypoglycemia. Carotid artery glucose concentration decreased to values that were 25 per cent of base line and as low as 3 mg. per 100 ml. The peak effect occurred 30 to 50 minutes following insulin infusion. The fetal EEG showed only minimal changes that consisted of a decrease in voltage and slowing on occasion. A significant decrease in heart rate occurred during the hypoglycemia. There was no significant change in oxygen consumption, blood flow, pH, or P CO 2 . A significant reduction (p
Rapporteur’s Statement

Ecosystems and forests can be among the most difficult sectors for which to develop adaptive measures. Among the issues identified in the following chapter are:
Differential stimulation-induced receptor localization in lipid rafts for interleukin-6 family cytokines signaling through the gp130/ leukemia inhibitory factor receptor complex

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) are cytokines which signal through receptor complexes that include the receptor subunits glycoprotein 130 (gp130) and the LIF receptor (LIFR), but CNTF also requires the non-signal transducing CNTF receptor (CNTFR) for binding. We show here that in IMR-32 neuronal cells endogenously expressing the receptor subunits for LIF and CNTF, CNTFR, but not gp130 or LIFR, is found in detergent-resistant lipid rafts. In addition, stimulation of these cells with CNTF resulted in a rapid translocation of a portion of gp130 and LIFR into detergent-resistant lipid rafts while an equivalent stimulation with LIF did not. Disruption of lipid rafts by cholesterol depletion of cell membranes blocked the CNTF-induced translocation of LIFR and gp130. Interestingly, while cholesterol-depletion did not inhibit signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 phosphorylation by either CNTF or LIF stimulation, it strongly inhibited both CNTF- and LIF-mediated phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 and Akt. LIF and CNTF generally appear to have redundant effects in cells responsive to both cytokines. Intriguingly, the data presented here suggest a possible mechanism whereby CNTF or other cytokines that signal through CNTFR could generate signals distinct from those elicited by cytokines such as LIF which utilize a LIFR/gp130 heterodimer, via association with or exclusion from lipid rafts.
Barriers Facing Women in the Wage-Labor Market and the Need for Additional Remedies: A Reply to Fischel and Lazear

Fischel and Lazear perceive a world in which women's jobs pay less than men's jobs either because women face barriers to entry into male occupations or because women choose jobs that pay less. They believe that barriers to entry can effectively be eliminated by direct remedies, especially Title VII and the Equal Pay Act. Were these perceptions shared by all, comparable worth would not be the hot issue it is today. Fischel and Lazear suggest that women may "choose" lower paying, more flexible, less skilled, jobs because of their specialization in non-wage labor.' Although this theory seems intuitively plausible, it is not likely to explain, for example, why tree trimmers are paid more than nurses.2 Other more precise empirical studies3 suggest that this choice, or human capital theory, does not explain sexual segregation of the wage-labor market and the associated wage gap.4 Women with less
Techniques for estimation of milk yield in beef cows and relationships of milk yield to calf weight gain and postpartum reproduction

Milk production is a primary factor controlling weaning weight of beef calves. The purpose of this experiment was to develop a practical and reliable on-farm method of estimating milk production and to relate estimates of milk production and milk composition to preweaning weight gain of calves. A second objective was to relate milk production to postpartum ovarian activity. Milk production of spring- and fall-calving grade Angus cows was estimated by machine milking (MM; average of 66, 123 and 189 d postpartum) and weigh-suckle-weigh (WSW; average of 50, 95, 136 and 179 d postpartum) techniques following overnight calf removal. Cows and calves were weighed monthly and the postpartum interval to first ovulation following calving was determined. The repeatability of the estimated milk production by MM (.97) was higher (P less than .01) than by WSW (.35). The correlation of average WSW and average MM estimates of milk production with preweaning calf gain were high and similar (greater than .75). Inclusion of milk composition did not improve the multiple correlation of MM-estimated milk production and calf gain. Neither milk production in early lactation (-.06) nor prebreeding weight change (-.07) was correlated with postpartum interval to ovulation. Machine milking was a repeatable method of estimating milk production of beef cows and can be used to evaluate effects of management variables on lactation of beef cows.
Treatment of senile vaginitis with estrogenic hormones

Hemoglobin in the urine would be more frequently encountered if one would search for it. The importance of chemical and spectroscopic tests is stressed. Hemoglobinuria is a not infrequent accompaniment of ruptured ectopic pregnancy with intraadbominal hemorrhage, and may be a significant symptom of the disease. Therefore, whenever the possibility of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy is considered in the differential diagnosis, the appearance of hemoglobinuria should be determined and evaluated in the presenting syndrome.
Graded-index antireflective coatings for high power lasers deposited by the sol-gel process

Gradient-index alkali borosilicate antireflection films for use in laser systems were deposited by the sol-gel process. Laser damage thresholds of these films, measured with 1.07 ..mu..m, 1-ns pulses, were four times greater than thresholds of widely-used, multilayer, antireflection coatings.
Markets in Intangibles: Patent Licensing

The absence of organized markets in intangibles has been a major hindrance to their recognition as assets in financial reports. Economic conditions, however, change fast and markets in intangibles, particularly in patents and know-how, are operating both off and on-line (Internet). We examine various valuation and disclosure aspects of the most active of these markets - the licensing of patents and know-how - which has grown substantially in recent years. Our findings indicate that: (a) a significant nonuniformity exists in the financial reporting of royalty (licensing) income across firms, (b) royalty income is a highly relevant variable to investors, (c) in addition to being an important source of income, the intensity of patent royalties provides investors with a strong signal concerning the value and potential of R&D expenditures, and (d) given both the direct and indirect (signaling) valuation implications of royalty income, and the heightened public concern about the adequacy of information concerning intangibles, accounting standard-setters should reevaluate firms' disclosure of various aspects of patents, technology, and know-how.
A method of mapping compact structure in radio sources using VLBI observations

A two-part technique is described for determining the angular structure of the compact components of radio sources from VLBI observations. With this technique, the source structure is first approximated, using both amplitudes and closure phases, by a model consisting of circularly symmetric Gaussian components located on a grid of positions on the sky. The second part begins by employing this model to predict the visibility phase corresponding to each observed visibility amplitude; these estimated visibility phases are then adjusted to agree with the observed closure phases. The resulting estimates of the visibility phases and the observed visibility amplitudes are then combined in a direct Fourier transform to produce a 'dirty' source map that is deconvolved via the CLEAN procedure on the basis of the point-source response. Some examples based on data generated from test models are provided.
Classical detection theory and the cryo-EM particle selection problem

Particle selection is an essential but tedious step in the determination of macromolecular structures by single particle reconstruction. This paper presents an automatic, multi-reference particle detection scheme that is based on the classical matched filter principle. It makes use of a pre-whitening filter to standardize the noise, a reduced representation of the references by means of principal component analysis, and a statistic for distinguishing particles from image artifacts. Standardizing the noise allows the noise-induced false-positive frequency to be estimated, and also allows the distribution of the discrimination statistic to be calculated a priori. The method is demonstrated with an annotated dataset of cryo-EM images.
Unidos Por La Justicia and Mujeres Fuertes: Grassroots groups shaping Mexican immigrant women's activism in San José, California

This article analyzes how two grassroots groups in San Jose, California – Unidos Por La Justicia and Mujeres Fuertes – shape women's politicization and consequent activism. Using Mexican immigrant women's narratives and ethnographic fieldwork, I argue that women's activism and emerging political consciousness arises from their grounded experience as Mexican immigrants struggling to understand their new place of residence as it relates to their immigration status and rights. This article contributes to the growing literature on Latina community politics.
The effects of pentylenetetrazol, bicuculline and strychnine on the development of kindled seizures

Abstract Modification of the rate of acquisition of the kindled amygdaloid seizure by the convulsants pentylenetetrazol, bicuculline and strychnine was studied. Injections of saline, 25 mg/kg of pentylenetetrazol, 2 mg/kg of bicuculline or 1 mg/kg of strychnine were given 15 min prior to the daily electrical stimulation of the amygdala. The drug doses selected were capable of producing some behavioral and electrical epileptoid activity prior to stimulation without inducing generalized seizures. To determine whether pentylenetetrazol or bicuculline accelerated the rate of development of the kindled amygdaloid seizure or merely augmented the expression of each seizure, a crossover design was implemented. The crossover studies involved switching animals during the acquisition phase (between stimulations 3–6) from prestimulation saline to drug or drug to saline injections. It was found that pentylenetetrazol markedly augmented the expression of seizures during kindling development but the results of the crossover studies showed a less dramatic acceleration in the actual rate of the development of the fully generalized kindled amygdaloid seizure. The bicuculline-treated animals showed little augmentation in the expression of seizures during the kindling acquisition phase and in the actual rate of development of the kindled amygdaloid seizure. The strychnine treated animals showed no augmentation in expression of the seizures nor in the rate of development. The effects of prestimulation injections of bicuculline (1, 2 and 3 mg/kg) and strychnine (0.5, 1 and 2 mg/kg) on fully developed kindled amygdaloid seizures were also evaluated. Pretreatment with bicuculline minimally increased seizure afterdischarge duration at the highest dose. When fully kindled animals were pretreated with strychnine, a paradoxical decrease in afterdischarge length and an increase in severity (tonic hindlimb extension) was seen with the largest dose tested. This study emphasizes the potential importance of crossover studies in evaluating pharmacological manipulations of the rate of acquisition of the kindled seizure.
High-resolution 3D CANCA NMR experiments for complete mainchain assignments using Cα direct-detection

The primary limitation of solution state NMR with larger, highly dynamic, or paramagnetic systems originates from signal losses due to fast transverse relaxation. This is related to the high gyromagnetic ratio γ of protons, which are usually detected. Thus, it is attractive to consider detection of nuclei with lower γ, such as 13C, for extending the size limits of NMR. Here, we present an approach for complete assignment of Cα and N resonances in fast relaxing proteins using a Cα detected 3D CANCA experiment for perdeuterated proteins. The CANCA experiment correlates alpha carbons with the sequentially adjacent and succeeding nitrogen and alpha carbons. This enables elongation of the chain of assigned residues simply by navigating along both nitrogen and carbon dimensions using a “stairway” assignment procedure. The simultaneous use of both Cα and N sequential connectivities makes the experiment more robust than conventional 3D experiments, which rely solely on a single 13C indirect dimension for sequenti...
Titration of Poly(carboxylic acid)s in Methanol Solution. Polymer Chain Extension, Ionization Equilibria, and Conformational Mobility

The titration of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and poly(methacrylic acid) (PMA) with LiOCH3 and NaOCH3 in methanol was studied by solution viscosity, potentiometry, and NMR spectroscopy. When titrating with LiOCH3, the reduced viscosity (rv) first increased with an increasing degree of neutralization (α) but then decreased due to counterion condensation and the mutual attraction of the ion-pair dipoles. The earlier rv maximum and the steeper rv decline in the case of PMA were attributed to a lower local dielectric constant. The rise of the pK with α continued for PAA even after the onset of counterion condensation as judged by the rv reversal, although Manning's theory predicts that the polymer charge density should remain constant. The NMR spectra of PMA and PAA showed a significantly greater line broadening with increasing neutralization in methanol than in D2O, indicating a sharp decrease of conformational mobility due to the energetic interactions between the polymer-bound ionic charges and ion-pair dipole...
The human gene for the type III isozyme of hexokinase: structure, basal promoter, and evolution.

The structure of the gene for the Type III isozyme of human hexokinase is nearly identical to that of previously characterized genes for other isozymes of hexokinase. The most striking difference is that the 5'-untranslated sequence and the initial coding sequence are contained in two exons in the Type III hexokinase gene but in a single exon in genes for the other isozymes. Sequence at the transcriptional start site for rat Type III hexokinase (S. Sebastian, J. A. White, and J. E. Wilson, 1999, J. Biol. Chem. 274, 31700-31706) is conserved in the human gene, as is an Oct-1 site, in reverse orientation, approximately 30 bp upstream from the start site. This site has been shown to regulate transcription of both human and rat genes for Type III hexokinase. Comparison of the genes for the various mammalian isozymes of hexokinase indicates that a major feature in the evolution of this isozyme family has been acquisition of alternative first exons.
Loss and correlation measurements in squaraine-doped nonlinear polymer optical fibers

Loss measurements for dye-doped polymer optical fibers are reported. These losses can contribute to the degradation of information in communications systems and limit the effectiveness of optical modulators built from nonlinear polymer optical fibers. Therefore it is essential that loss mechanisms be studied to determine which dyes can be used successfully. rThansverse scattering and successive-cut-and-measure techniques are compared. The benefit of the transverse loss measurement is that it is non-destructive while the successive-cut-and-measure method is simple albeit time consuming. Along with a characterization of linear absorption, the transverse loss technique provides a way to quantitatively describe the inhomogeneities in these fibers by providing the means for calculating the correlation length (to be described in the text) of the fiber that is measured.
Effect of spectral range on convergence in Lanczos algorithm, a numerical study

Abstract We investigate the numerical performance of the Lanczos algorithm applied to large eigenproblems in chemical physics. Particular attention is paid to the effect of the spectral range of the Hamiltonian (ΔH) on the convergence of Lanczos eigenvalues in finite-precision arithmetic. A simple approximate scaling law is found in numerical tests involving one-, three-, and six-dimensional systems. The number of converged eigenlevels (nconv) increases linearly with the scaled length of the Lanczos recursion (Knorm), which is inversely proportional to the square root of the spectral range ( K norm =K/ Δ H ). Discussions on controlling the spectral range and its effect on the performance of Lanczos algorithm are presented.
Kinetics of the oxidation of metals: parallel circuit for point defects diffusion

A model is proposed for the oxidation of metals including both bulk crystal lattice diffusion and short-circuit diffusion paths. Assuming local equilibrium between point defects in the bulk and in grain boundaries, we obtain an effective parabolic rate constant keff=kbulk [1+θ exp-(ΔH/RT],where ΔH is the enthalpy for the reaction between point defects in the bulk and in short circuits, θ is the fraction of the short-circuit area, and T is temperature. In the case of the high-temperature oxidation of nickel coated with a thin film of vanadium pentoxide, this model yields to a rate law with a critical oxygen pressure Pc. The nickel vanadium oxide located in the short circuits of the growing oxide NiO is liquid below Pc, leading to a rapid short-circuit diffusion. Above this value, a vanadate precipitates and acts as diffusion blocks for migrating Ni ions.
Chronic vitamin D deficiency in the weanling rat alters catecholamine metabolism in the cortex

The effect of a vitamin D deficient (—D), vitamin D replete (150 I.U.D3 twice weekly) and normal rat diets for 4 weeks in weanling male rats on the steady-state concentration in several brain sites of dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), and dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) was investigated. The areas of the central nervous system assayed were the brainstem, cerebellum, cerebral cortex, hypothalamus-median eminence, and striatum. The results indicate that DA content of cortex and hypothalamus significantly increased in the —D group compared to the normal diet or D replete groups. The concentrations of DOPAC and NE in the cortex of both —D and D replete rats increased significantly compared to normal diet group. Plasma calcium level was significantly lower in —D group compared to the normal diet or vitamin D replete groups.
Does Pornography Consumption Increase Participation in Friends with Benefits Relationships

Friends with benefits (FWB) relationships integrate two types of relationships—friendship and a relationship that includes sexual intimacy but without an expectation of commitment. These relationships are often seen as less risky than other casual sexual behaviors, but they still pose a high risk of contracting an STI. Pornography consumption has been connected to increases in risky sexual behavior in other types of casual sex. In two studies (Study 1 N = 850; Study 2 N = 992), we examined the hypothesis that pornography use influences FWB behaviors, specifically through the mechanism of sexual scripts. Our results demonstrate that more frequent viewing of pornography is associated with a higher incidence of FWB relationships, a higher number of unique FWB partners, and engagement in all types of risky sexual behaviors during FWB relationships. We did a direct replication of these effects in Study 2 with all point estimates falling within their respective confidence intervals. We also examined these effects while controlling for the stability of FWB behaviors over the course of a semester. Finally, we provided evidence that more permissive sexual scripts mediated the association between frequency of pornography use and FWB behaviors. We discuss our findings with an eye toward mitigating public health risks among emerging adults.
Stimulus information and stimulus interference in bisensory short-term memory

An attempt was made to determine if Ss’ strategy of retaining stimulus material changed under conditions of bisensory simultaneous stimulation when one of the two inputs was relevant information as opposed to interference. Thus in Group 1 Ss were stimulated bisensorily, attended to both inputs (information), but recalled only one input. Ss in Group 2 were stimulated bisensorily, attended to only one input, and recalled only that input (interference). It was found that S’s efficiency of recall was decreased in the information condition (Group 1) but strategy was not altered. In both groups, Ss performed similarly; performance was in turn similar to that observed in the typical bisensory situation, i.e., where both channels are recalled.
Witnessing Versus Experiencing Direct Violence in Childhood as Correlates of Adulthood PTSD

Research has established that childhood violence exposure plays a considerable role in the development of deleterious outcomes in childhood and adulthood. However, important gaps remain in understanding the complex relationships between early violence exposure, adulthood trauma exposure, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study investigates whether two specific types of childhood violence exposure (witnessing domestic violence and experiencing child abuse) are uniquely associated with PTSD while controlling for additional trauma experience. In a community sample of pregnant women, this study finds that childhood abuse only and combined exposure to abuse and witnessing abuse correlated to current and lifetime PTSD diagnoses, but witnessing alone did not. In addition, adult nonviolence trauma histories account for more variance in PTSD than did any early violence exposure type.
Coupled systems of two-dimensional turbulence

Ordinary two-dimensional turbulence corresponds to a Hamiltonian dynamics that conserves energy and the vorticity on fluid particles. This paper considers coupled systems of two-dimensional turbulence with three distinct governing dynamics. One is a Hamiltonian dynamics that conserves the vorticity on fluid particles and a quantity analogous to the energy that causes the system members to develop a strong correlation in velocity. The other two dynamics considered are non-Hamiltonian. One conserves the vorticity on particles but has no conservation law analogous to energy conservation; the other conserves energy and enstrophy but it does not conserve the vorticity on fluid particles. The coupled Hamiltonian system behaves like two-dimensional turbulence, even to the extent of forming isolated coherent vortices. The other two dynamics behave very differently, but the behaviours of all four dynamics are accurately predicted by the methods of equilibrium statistical mechanics.
Design, Synthesis, and Characterization of Conifer‐Shaped Dendritic Architectures

An elongated structural design leading to more conical-shaped dendritic architectures by using a combination of 1-->3, 1-->(2+1), and 1-->(2+1 Me) C-branched monomers is presented. Synthesis of the conifer-shaped macromolecule was achieved by reaction between isocyanate 20 and amine 26 in dry CH2Cl2. A resultant extended focal adamantane-modified dendron was deprotected to generate the water-soluble product, which was subsequently complexed with beta-cyclodextrin in D2O to create the desired tree-like product. Host-guest interactions of the adamantane moiety with the beta-cyclodextrin cavity were monitored by 1H NMR spectroscopy. All monomers, key intermediates, and final products were fully characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, ESI or MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and IR spectroscopy.
Charles E. Terry (1878-1945): early campaigner against drug addiction.

CHARLES E. TERRY WAS BORN in 1878 in Hartford, Connecticut. During his childhood, his family moved to Florida and then to Georgia in an attempt to allow his father, who suffered from tuberculosis, to regain his health. His father eventually succumbed to the disease, leading Terry to study medicine; he enrolled in the University of Maryland Medical School in 1899. After graduation, he settled in Jacksonville, Florida, and joined his brother-in-law in medical practice.1 He had a successful career in Florida, becoming president of the Duval County Medical Society in 1910, and in the same year, city health officer of Jacksonville, a position he held until 1917. As city health officer, Terry was a whirl of activity. He began strict enforcement of the sanitary codes, lobbied for more sewage and drainage improvements, and established programs to give schoolchildren medical examinations, eradicate rats, and ensure smallpox vaccination on a house-to-house basis. He also created a midwifery program and a visiting nurse service. Terry is, however, mainly remembered for his campaign against drug addiction. During his time as city health officer, he secured the passage of a municipal ordinance which identified and contacted all users of opiates and cocaine; the ordinance also established a program giving the health department authority, if necessary, to legally supply the addicts with drugs. This was the first such “maintenance” drug program in the United States. In the selection reprinted here, Terry lays out the requirements for a successful program against addiction. Terry stopped supplying addicts with drugs after the passage of the Harrison Narcotic Act of 1914, although he was pessimistic about the effectiveness of this legislation.2 He concluded one article with a diatribe against physicians: Experience has conclusively shown the futility of looking to the medical profession for the solution of the narcotic evil and, until legislators, both state and national, come to realize this fact and take cognizance of it in anti-narcotic enactments, a continuance of the abuses of the past may be expected.2(p1092) Terry was a member of the American Public Health Association and served as its president from 1914 to 1915. He was chair of its Committee on Habit-Forming Drugs and worked to defend addicts and decry repressive measures regarding the drug issue. He later became executive director of a private group, the Committee on Drug Addictions, which was funded by the Bureau of Social Hygiene, which was in turn funded by John D. Rockefeller Jr. In 1928, with his third wife, Mildred Pellens, Terry published The Opium Problem, still regarded as a classic in the field.3
A comparative evaluation of the sealing ability of 2 root-end filling materials: an in vitro leakage study using Enterococcus faecalis.

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sealing ability of EndoSequence Bioceramic Root-end Repair (BCRR) material when compared with white mineral trioxide aggregate (WMTA). Study design Forty single-rooted teeth were instrumented, obturated with gutta-percha, root-end resected, and retrofilled with 2 different materials: white ProRoot MTA (WMTA) (n = 15) and BCRR (n = 15). Unfilled specimens (n = 10) received no retrofill and were used as controls. All groups received E. faecalis in a created reservoir coronal to the root filling and the presence of microleakage was evaluated by counting the colony-forming units from each specimen. The results were analyzed with 1-way analysis of variance. Results There was no significant difference in leakage between the 2 experimental groups, but there was a significant difference with the control ( P ≤ .05). Conclusions This study suggests that BCRR is equivalent in sealing ability to WMTA when used as root-end filling material in vitro.
Carbazole donor-carbazole linker-based compounds: preparation, photophysical properties, and formation of fluorescent nanoparticles.

A new class of highly soluble and stable compounds (1−4) has been synthesized and characterized. Compounds 1, 2, and 3 have 3,6-disubstituted carbazole as electron-donor-linked through the 2,7-positions of N-substituted carbazole with variably substituted phenyl acetylenes as electron acceptors. Compound 4 has two identical donors linked through the 2,7-position of N-substituted carbazole. These compounds absorb from UV to visible region and emit intensely from blue to green. The effect on the photophysical properties of these compounds by changing acceptors while keeping the donor and linker constant has been studied. A study of solvent effects on their photophysical properties has shown that an increase in polarity of the solvent causes a reduction of fluorescence quantum yields. With a decrease in temperature, these compounds showed increased emission intensity accompanied by a red shift of emission. Edge excitation red shift showed as much as 128 nm for compound 2 in isopropanol. Solid-state fluoresce...
Temperature feedback for the control of migraine

Abstract The following case studies describe the treatment of two patients who were first treated with EMG feedback training without positive response and who were treated later with the “temperature trainer” with positive response.
3D MRI brain image segmentation based on region restricted EM algorithm

This paper presents a novel algorithm of 3D human brain tissue segmentation and classification in magnetic resonance image (MRI) based on region restricted EM algorithm (RREM). The RREM is a level set segmentation method while the evolution of the contours was driven by the force field composed by the probability density functions of the Gaussian models. Each tissue is modeled by one or more Gaussian models restricted by free shaped contour so that the Gaussian models are adaptive to the local intensities. The RREM is guaranteed to be convergency and achieving the local minimum. The segmentation avoids to be trapped in the local minimum by the split and merge operation. A fuzzy rule based classifier finally groups the regions belonging to the same tissue and forms the segmented 3D image of white matter (WM) and gray matter (GM) which are of major interest in numerous applications. The presented method can be extended to segment brain images with tumor or the images having part of the brain removed with the adjusted classifier.
Experience with importation of electronic images into the medical record from physical media

The purpose of this article is to describe a system we developed for importing images on compact discs (CDs) from external imaging departments into our clinical image viewing system, and to report on key metrics regarding veracity of information seen on the CDs. We recommend careful attention to the process of CD importation because of the error rate we have seen. We developed a system and process for importing images on CD into our EMR. The importation system scans the CD for digital imaging and communications in medicine (DICOM) images, and collects all patient information seen. That information is presented to the patient for verification. Once validated, the image data is copied into our clinical viewing system. The importation system includes facilities for collecting instances of incorrect data. About 90% of images are now exchanged between our healthcare enterprise and other entities via CD. Data for the wrong patient (e.g., the wrong CD) is seen in about 0.1% of cases, and a similar number of CDs have data for more than one patient on the CD(s) the patient bring to our facility. Most data are now exchanged via DICOM files. DICOM images burned onto CD media are now commonly used for image exchange. However, applications to import DICOM images are not enough. One must implement a process to assure high confidence that the data imported belongs to the patient you are importing.
Base-Calling in DNA Pyrosequencing with Reconfigurable Bayesian Network

A reconfigurable computing method based on dynamic Bayesian learning network is proposed for base-calling in pyrosequencing from microarray gene expression data. Due to long memory and stochastic non-idealities in the pyrosequencing process, exact inference on the proposed dynamic Bayesian learning network is computationally prohibitive in both run-time and memory usage for reasonable problem sizes. To circumvent these issues, we design a reconfigurable Bayesian learning network, whereby processing nodes evaluate posterior probabilities of all states in parallel and crossbar switch realizes network topology that interconnects all processing nodes. The success of the proposed method is demonstrated by a prototype system implemented with Berkeley Emulation Engine 3 (BEE3) board, which achieves close to 2 times increase in read length and about 3 orders of reduction in run-time than previously reported for both experimental and simulated pyrosequencing data.
The long-run determinants of U.S. lumber imported from Canada revisited

Abstract This paper examines the effects of the lumber price, the housing starts, and the bilateral exchange rate on U.S. softwood lumber imports from Canada in a cointegration framework. To that end, the Phillips–Hansen fully-modified cointegration (FM-OLS) procedure is applied to monthly data for the period from January 1994 through June 2009. Results show that there exists the long-run equilibrium relationship between the U.S. lumber imports from Canada and the selected macroeconomic and market variables. We also find that the U.S. lumber price and housing starts are more important than the bilateral exchange rate in influencing U.S.–Canada softwood lumber trade.
θ-Defensin pseudogenes in HIV-1-exposed, persistently seronegative female sex-workers from Thailand

The leukocytes of rhesus monkeys contain cyclic octadecapeptides (theta;-defensins) that can protect cells from infection by HIV-1 in vitro. Although humans express mRNA from one or more theta;-defensin pseudogenes, these transcripts contain a premature stop codon that prevents formation of theta;-defensin peptides. We hypothesized that some highly exposed persistently seronegative (HEPS) individuals might have intact theta;-defensin (DEFT) genes and produce functional theta;-defensins that might account for their resistance to HIV-1 infection. We sequenced DEFT genes from 30 women in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand: 11 HEPS female sex-workers and 19 control women (10 HIV-1 infected and 9 HIV-1 uninfected). We found that theta;-defensin genes from all 11 HEPS women contained the crucial signal sequence stop codon, as did the 19 control women. Synthetic theta;-defensins based on the cDNA sequences to generate a human theta;-defensin (termed retrocyclin-1 and -2) were capable of inhibiting replication of Thai HIV-1 subtype B and CRF01_AE isolates regardless of the coreceptor utilization of the isolates. Although our study indicates that synthetic theta;-defensin peptides are effective in vitro against Thai subtype B and CRF01_AE isolates of HIV-1, the presence of premature stop codons in the DEFT genes of these HEPS women makes it unlikely that endogenous theta;-defensin production accounts for their resistance to HIV-1.
Classroom Interaction Patterns among Teachers and Emotionally Disturbed Children.

Abstract Observational procedures were used to investigate classroom interaction patterns among direct and indirect teachers and emotionally disturbed children who were classified as conduct problems or personality problems. It was expected that initiated and respondent interaction dyads, classified as dominant, non‐direct, and nurturant modes, would be the same (reciprocal), thus creating an interaction “cycle”. The cycle concept was only partially supported; instead, initiated dominance by teachers and conduct problem children was the most influential interaction characteristic affecting the classroom environment. A discussion of teacher managerial/instructional behaviours, the impact of student behaviours, and implications for additional research are included.
Free-style free flap

Advancements in microsurgical techniques as applied to perforator flaps have made harvesting flaps in a free-style manner a practical reality. A hand-held Doppler identifies sizable perforators on which flaps can be based. In free-style free flap harvesting, any region of the body can be chosen as a donor site as long as there is an audible pulsatile Doppler signal. The value of the free-style free flap concept lies in its ability to overcome anatomical variations. The clinical application of raising flaps in a free-style manner has been demonstrated in the thigh where flaps have been raised safety and reliably in spite of the many anatomical uncertainties in this area. Flaps can, thus, be designed and raised in any region of the body to suite the unique requirements of individual cases. However, limitations to the clinical application of the free-style free flap should be noted; the course of the perforator may be unpredictable. Small and long perforators may be difficult to harvest and inset. Furthermore, the skin territory and intra-operative flap thinning should more conservative compared with conventional flaps. These shortcomings can however be overcome by clinical experience and improvement in surgical techniques.
Treatment of vesicoureteral reflux point system based on twenty years of experience

During the last 20 years 500 girls with recurrent urinary tract infection and documented reflux were seen in private practice. All patients received medical treatment for 3 to 48 months (an average of 15 months) after which the 250 who were not cured underwent a corrective operation. The primary reason for an antireflux operation is to protect the kidney from the damaging effect of a combination of high pressure and infection. Thus, the criteria for operation included persistent infection, renal changes typical of previous pyelonephritis, major reflux and abdominal or flank pain. The surgical cure rate after careful long-term followup approaches 98%. The medical cure rate at the end of 2 years reached 88%. This experience has enabled the establishment of a rigorous point system, providing common denominators regarding indications for operation. It emphasizes the desirability of attempting a medical cure for at least 1 year after urethral dilatation, except when major orifice defects and major reflux exist. This system should help to increase communication and coordination of efforts among the pediatrician, radiologist and urologist.
Laser RaD at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for fusion and isotope separation applications

Application objectives of the Laser Fusion and Isotope Separation Programs at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory are reviewed, and projected laser system performance requirements for each application are summarized. Historical perspectives of the laser technology options considered to meet these requirements are described, and technical highlights in the ensuing development of Nd: glass (fusion), and copper vapor and tunable dye (isotope separation) laser systems are given.
FINE STRUCTURE OF THE LIPID BODIES IN JUVENILE AMAUROTIC IDIOCY.

Electronmicroscopic examination of brain tissue from patients with juvenile amaurotic idiocy (Batten-Spielmeyer-Vogt disease) revealed a highly characteristic fine architecture of the lipid bodies accumulated in the perikarya. These pleomorphic bodies present two different types of internal structure, either a densely granular stroma, or round, oval and tubular membranes giving the cross section a multilocular appearance. There is some suggestion that the bodies might derive from degenerating mitochondria. In all four patients, regardless of age, the lipid bodies were similar in structure but they were distinctly different from the membranous cytoplasmic bodies of infantile amaurotic idiocy (Tay-Sachs disease) as described byTerry andKorey.
The effect of U-50,488H tolerance-dependence and abstinence on the levels of dynorphin (1-13) in brain regions, spinal cord, pituitary gland and peripheral tissues of the rat.

Abstract Male Sprague-Dawley rats were rendered tolerant to and physically dependent on U-50,488H, a κ-opiate agonist, by injecting 25 mg/kg of the drug intraperitoneally twice a day for 4 days. Two sets of rats were used. Rats labeled as tolerant-dependent were injected with U-50,488H (25 mg/kg) 1 h before sacrificing on day 5, whereas the abstinent rats were sacrificed on day 5 without the injection of U-50,488H. Of all the tissues examined, the pituitary gland had the highest level of dynorphin (1–13), whereas the heart had the lowest level. The levels of dynorphin (1–13) increased in the hypothalamus, hippocampus and pons/medulla of U-50,488H tolerant-dependent rats, whereas in abstinent rats the levels of dynorphin (1–13) were elevated only in the midbrain. The levels of dynorphin (1–13) in the pituitary gland of U-50,488H tolerant-dependent or abstinent rats were unchanged. In peripheral tissues, the levels of dynorphin (1–13) in the heart of U-50,488H tolerant-dependent rats were increased. In the abstinent rats they were elevated in the adrenals, spleen, and the heart but were decreased in the kidneys. Compared to morphine tolerant-dependent and abstinent rats, significant differences in the levels of dynorphin (1–13) in tissues of 50,488H tolerant-dependent and abstinent rats were observed and may explain many pharmacological differences in the μ- and κ-opiate induced tolerance-dependence and abstinence processes.
Heterogeneity of Endotoxic Bacterial Lipopolysaccharides Revealed by Ion-Exchange Column Chromatography

Heterogeneity of Endotoxic Bacterial Lipopolysaccharides Revealed by Ion-Exchange Column Chromatography
The Effect of Dietary Protein Levels in Isocaloric Diets on the Composition of Avian Pancreatic Juice

A permanent indwelling cannula was placed in the main pancreatic duct of 10-week-old commercial strain male chickens. The birds were fed isocaloric corn-soybean meal diets containing either 11.5% or 18.5% crude protein for two 5-day periods in a reversal experimental design. Irrespective of diet, chickens consumed more feed and secreted more pancreatic juice during the daytime than during the nighttime (P less than .01). The concentrations of crude protein and chloride ion and the activities of trypsin, chymotrypsin, and amylase in the pancreatic juice were the same for the daytime and nighttime periods. Significant differences were observed between the two collection periods for the total quantities of these materials secreted (P less than .01). Although the chickens consumed equal amounts of the two rations, trypsin and chymotrypsin responded to the dietary change. Greater proteolytic enzyme activities were found in the pancreatic juice as a response to eating the 18.5% protein diet. The chickens remained in excellent condition throughout the experiment, the cannulas remained unobstructed, and the pancreata secreted up to seven weeks with no cessation of flow.
Polyphenoloxidase from DeChaunac grapes

Polyphenoloxidase (PPO) from red grape cultivar, DeChaunac, grown in New York State was isolated and purified 17-fold by using Phenyl Sepharose CL-4B column. Disc gel electrophoresis revealed near homogeneity of three isoenzyme bands. The molecular weight of this enzyme ranged from 73 000 to 85 000. The temperature and pH optima of the purified enzyme were 20 °C and 6.0, respectively. Kinetic studies showed that the thermal inactivation of the PPO followed first-order kinetics, with the activation energy, Ea = 52.39 Kcal mol−1. The substrate specificity showed a high degree of PPO activity toward o-diphenolic compounds with the highest affinity toward caffeic acid among substrates studied. The apparent Km values for caffeic acid and 4-methylcatechol as substrates for the Dechaunac PPO were 16 mmol and 25 mmol, respectively. The most potent inhibitors of the PPO were D.L-dithiothreitol and sodium metasulphite at the concentration level of 0.5 mmol.