cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Information theory and the security of binary data perturbation

Random data perturbation (RDP) has been in use for several years in statistical databases and public surveys as a means of providing privacy to individuals while collecting information on groups. It has recently gained popularity as a privacy technique in data mining. To our knowledge, attacks on binary RDP have not been completely characterized, its security has not been analyzed from a complexity-theoretic or information-theoretic perspective, and there is no privacy measure of binary RDP that is related to the complexity of an attack. We characterize all inference attacks on binary RDP, and show that if it is possible to reduce estimation error indefinitely, a finite number of queries per bit of entropy is enough to do so. We define this finite number as the privacy measure of the binary RDP.
Therapeutic measures promoting recovery from the physiologic disturbances of infantile diarrhea.

ALTHOUGH the improvements in fluid therapy have seemed to result largely from recent clinical observations, actually the fundamental ideas were developed by research on experimental animals in laboratories of physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology and clinical medicine. In many aspects, the progress has depended on laboratory work using physiologic and biochemical methods but applied with a point of view arising from clinical experience. The opportunities for this type of research came largely with full-time medicine in clinical departments. I was led to the use of potassium in fluid therapy by studies which were carried out on experimental animals throughout a period of 10 years in association with Drs. Yannet, Harrison and Miller. We had the excellent technical assistance of Miss Carey, Miss Coville and Mr. lannucci and Mr. Barringham. During these years, the knowledge of the metabolism of water and electrolyte was advancing rapidly under the leadership of Gamble, Van Slyke, Peters, Loeb, Hastings, Fenn, Adolph, Butler, Homer Smith, and Newburg to mention only a few. In 1945, I summarized this knowledge of body water and electrolytes as related to clinical problems. Through the courtesy of Dr. Park, I came to Baltimore on VJ day to work for 60 days with the facilities of the pediatric department at Johns Hopkins. The study of diarrhea was made possible by the nurses, the resident, Dr. Govan, the head of the laboratory, Dr. Kaydi, and a superb technician, Mrs. Radcliffe. Through Hansen9s generosity, Flett, Pratt, Wiese, Alice Gamble and I later extended these observations in Texas. We were able to show that deficiency of potassium occurs in diarrhea, that potassium may safely be used parenterally or orally and that improved results follow its use.
A method for multistrategy task-adaptive learning based on plausible justifications

Abstract Multistrategy task-adaptive learning (MTL) comprises a class of methods in which the learner determines by itself which strategy or combination of strategies is most appropriate for a given learning task defined by the learner's goal, the learner's background knowledge (BK) and the input to the learning process. The paper presents a MTL method which is based on building a plausible justification that the learner's input is a consequence of its BK. The method assumes a general learning goal of deriving any useful knowledge from a given input and integrates dynamically a whole range of learning strategies. It also behaves as a single-strategy method when the relationship between the input and the BK satisfies the requirements of the single-strategy method, and the general learning goal of the MTL method is specialized to the goal of the single-strategy method. Joint appointment with the Research Institute for Informatics, 71316, Bd.Miciurin 8-10, Bucharest 1, Romania
Testing for Maternal Cell Contamination in Prenatal Samples: A Comprehensive Survey of Current Diagnostic Practices in 35 Molecular Diagnostic Laboratories

The potential presence of maternal cell contamination (MCC) in chorionic villus or amniotic fluid samples poses a serious preanalytical risk for prenatal misdiagnosis. The aim of this study was to identify current diagnostic practices in the absence of comprehensive practice guidelines. Thirty-five clinical molecular laboratories that conduct prenatal testing agreed to participate in a clinical practice survey. The survey included questions about sample requirements, test indications, assay type, test performance and limitations, criteria and management of uninformative test results, reporting, and billing. Sixty percent of participating laboratories performed testing on direct and cultured amniotic fluid, whereas forty percent tested cultured cells only. Most also accepted chorionic villus samples. Although MCC testing of fetal samples is recommended in guidelines by the American College of Medical Genetics, only 60% of surveyed laboratories performed it without exception. Commercially available assays were used by 75% of participating laboratories, and at least five identity markers were evaluated at 87% of the laboratories. The reported lower limit of MCC detection ranged from 1 to 20% but was not determined in all laboratories. MCC testing was performed in the majority of molecular diagnostic laboratories, but guidelines for standardization are needed to ensure optimal and accurate prenatal patient care.
Macromolecular transport in the fetal rat intestine

Abstract Macromolecular barrier function of the fetal rat small intestine and colon was analyzed from 16 to 22 days gestation (birth). During this period the epithelium is converted from stratified to simple columnar. To assess permeability, horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was introduced by microinjection into the lumen or into the umbilical circulation. Proximal small intestine, distal small intestine, and colon were examined after 10–20 min. Paracellular passage of HRP through occluding junctions was not observed after either intraluminal or intravascular injection. After intraluminal injection, transepithelial transport of HRP from lumen to blood occurred in all regions at all ages studied. Horseradish peroxidase was present in cytoplasmic vesicles of most cells in the primitive stratified epithelia, during epithelial conversion, and in simple columnar epithelia. After intravascular injection, HRP was present in the lamina propria and in intercellular spaces of the epithelium, but HRP did not enter tight junctions. Tracer was taken up into cytoplasmic vesicles of both stratified and simple columnar epithelial cells, but was only rarely seen in the lumen. We conclude that (a) there is rapid transcellular, vesicle-mediated transport from lumen to blood across both stratified and simple columnar epithelia of fetal rat small intestine and colon; (b) after intravascular injection, macromolecules may be taken up into vesicles at basolateral epithelial cell surfaces but are not rapidly transported into the lumen; (c) paracellular passage does not occur in the fetal ages studied.
Fracture Toughness of Fiber Metal Laminates: Carbon Nanotube Modified Ti–Polymer–Matrix Composite Interface

Multifunctional hybrid composites are proposed as novel solutions to meet the demands in various industrial applications ranging from aerospace to biomedicine. The combination of carbon fiber and/o...
Haemolymph ecdysone concentrations in Hyalophora cecropia pupae, dauer pupae and adults

Abstract Haemolymph ecdysone concentrations were determined by radioimmunoassay in diapausing pupae, pharate adults, adults, and chilled dauer pupae. The concentration in diapausing pupae after 6 months chilling (5.35 pg/μl) increased dramatically after 3 days at 27°C (>200 pg/μl) and then decreased to low levels in adult females (1.63 pg/μl). In adult males ecdysone was undetectable in all except one animal. Dauer pupae showed a decrease from 6.1 to 1.7 pg/μl 1 day after being transferred from 6 to 27°C. Over a 3-day period the value increased to 3.19 pg/μl and remained constant for more than a year. These results suggest that diapausing pupae with and without brain neurosecretory cells maintain a low concentration of ecdysone in the haemolymph.
Dolichol-bound oligosaccharides and the transfer of distal monosaccharides in the synthesis of glycoproteins by normal and tumor mammary epithelial cells

The main dolichol diphosphate-bound oligosaccharides present in primary cultures of both normal and tumor mouse mammary epithelial cells had the same size, yielded the same pattern after acetolysis and paper chromatography, had the same number of mannose residues susceptible to alpha-mannosidase degradation, and were composed of the same monosaccharide residues. This is the first demonstration that normal and tumor mammary cells have dolichol diphosphate-bound oligosaccharides with very similar, if not identical, structures. These compounds are intermediates in the synthesis of asparagine-linked oligosaccharides. On the other hand, normal and tumor cells showed differences in the specific activities of the enzymes involved in the transfer of the distal monosaccharides from the sugar nucleotides to glycoproteins. Sialyl- and fucosyltransferases were elevated and galactosyl- and N-acetylglucosaminyltransferases were diminished in mammary tumor cells. The intact tumor cells showed an increased fucosylation of glycoproteins of the asparagine-linkage type.
Global child health: reaching the tipping point for all children.

This speech presented for the Academic Pediatric Association calls for the continuation of social and scientific progress for children in terms of persisting health disparities and lack of health equity. The presenter notes achievements in the field of pediatrics and the evolution of fields to include child abuse pediatrics with the need to respond to child maltreatment as well as related social and legal realms proposing laws against child labor the right to health care and the right to education. The objectives presented in this discussion are to define extreme poverty in the United States and globally; to describe excess mortality/morbidity by reviewing the key challenges in the United States and abroad; to outline a framework for analysis and solutions; and to propose tangible steps for uniformly tipping the balance in favor of children. To assist in this discussion the presenter examines population-specific and local data; polarization of resources allocation and achievements; positive strategies within community pediatrics and evidence-based global health strategies persistence of advocacy that leads to action; and necessary partnerships in reaching the tipping point for all children.
Episodic acidification during snowmelt of high elevation lakes in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California

Atmospheric loads to dilute lakes in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California are very low, and fall almost entirely as snow. When acidic anions preferentially elute from melting snow, these low loads may nontheless be enough to acidify low ANC lakes. Two of the ten lakes included in the Sierra Episodes Study are discussed here: High Lake, the only lake in the study to become acidic during snowmelt; and Treasure Lake, typical of the remainder of the lakes. All lakes exhibited increases in NO3− concentrations during early snowmelt; these were accompanied by increases in base cations, primarily Ca2+. In the first few days of snowmelt, NO3− concentrations at High Lake increased more rapidly than concentrations of base cations, resulting in ANC values below zero. Export of both NO3− and SO42− from the watersheds exceeded the inputs from the snowpack, suggesting that other sources (e.g., watershed minerals, stored inputs from the previous summer, transformations of other inputs) of these anions are important.
Paying dues to the union: A study of blue-collar workers in a right-to-work environment

Of the 39 states that permit some form of public sector collective bargaining, union security agreements are prohibited in 19. Employees may join and pay dues to the union representing them in these states but they are not required to do so. This study of 372 state government workers compares union dues-payers and non-dues-payers on a variety of personal, positional, economic, and noneconomic variables. Workers who were exposed to more physical danger and less noise were more likely to be dues-payers; higher seniority workers and skilled craftworkers were more likely to pay dues. Results suggest that union voting and union dues-paying have different antecedents. They also raise questions about the generalizability of previous dues-paying research to blue-collar settings. Holding a union card in a right-to-work environment seems to have little to do with the traditional collective pursuit of economic power.
Dietary intake, eating behavior, and physical activity-related determinants of high body mass index in rural communities in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho

OBJECTIVE: To assess the relation between body mass index (BMI) levels and various lifestyle variables related to physical activity and specific characteristics of a healthy eating pattern, using baseline cross-sectional data from the Wellness IN the Rockies project. SUBJECTS: A total of 928 males and 889 females, aged 18–99 y, recruited from six rural communities in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. MEASUREMENTS: Using BMI as the criterion, overweight was defined as a BMI ⩽25 kg/m2 and obesity was defined as a BMI ⩽30 kg/m2. All participants in this study completed a questionnaire that elicited sociodemographic information, self-reported height and weight, and data related to specific dietary intakes, eating-related behaviors, and physical activity behaviors and perceptions. RESULTS: Prevalence of overweight was 70% in men and 59% in women. Increased likelihood of overweight or obesity was associated with greater frequency of the following: drinking sweetened beverages such as soft drinks/soda pop, ordering supersized portions, eating while doing other activities, and watching television. Other predictors were lower frequency of participation in physical activity and the perception of not getting as much exercise as needed. CONCLUSIONS: The increased probability of having a high BMI in individuals who more often eat while doing another activity appears to be a novel finding that will need to be substantiated by additional research. The finding that the vast majority of overweight and obese respondents believed that they do not get as much exercise as needed strengthens the assertion that finding ways to increase participation in physical activity should remain a high priority in obesity prevention and intervention efforts at the community and individual levels.
Conductivity and creep in acceptor-dominated polycrystalline Al2O3

Ionic and electronic conductivity and compressive creep of hot-pressed polycrystalline acceptor-dominated Al2O3 were measured as a function of oxygen partial pressure and grain size varying from 3 to 200 μm. Hole conduction shows a slight preference for grainboundaries; ionic conduction is slightly hindered by grain boundaries, indicating that fast oxygen grain-boundary diffusion involving charged species does not occur. Conductivity and creep are accounted for on the basis of a model in which there is fast grain-boundary migration by a neutral oxygen species.
Papillon-Lefèvre syndrome: a successful outcome.

Background: Papillon-Lefevre syndrome (PLS) is a rare autosomal recessive condition manifested clinically by hyperkeratosis of the palms and soles and rapidly progressive periodontitis resulting in loss of deciduous and permanent teeth. This case report describes the clinical periodontal findings and treatment of a 10-year-old male patient with PLS. The patient provided informed consent, and the study was conducted in accordance with the Helsinki Declaration of 1975, as revised in 2000.Methods: Upon initial presentation, a full periodontal examination was completed. Conventional probing depths, clinical attachment levels (CAL), gingival index (GI), and plaque index (PI) were measured prior to initial therapy, which involved oral hygiene instruction and scaling and root planing. At reevaluation, initial treatment proved unsuccessful, and a surgical approach with concomitant systemic antibiotic therapy was implemented. In addition, the patient's dermatologist treated his palmoplantar keratoderma with system...
Comments on the Development of Techniques for Management of Environmental Quality in Aquaculture

Abstract Management procedures which improve or stabilize environmental quality in aquaculture ponds are needed. The development of such procedures requires knowledge of quantitative relationships among two sets of variables: (1) fish production and specific aspects of environmental quality and (2) the management procedure and environmental quality. The specific changes desired in environmental quality must be identified, and the effect of a given degree of application of a management procedure on both environmental quality and aquacultural production must be ascertained. Management procedures must produce predictable results at a reasonable cost. Environmental factors which must be considered in managing water quality in fertilized ponds and in ponds in which feeds are applied are discussed. Some examples of the development of successful environmental quality management techniques are provided and topics for future research are mentioned.
Polyvinylpyrrolidone adhesion layer for increased uniformity and optical transmittance of silica nanoparticle antireflective coatings

The uniformity of silica nanoparticle antireflective coatings deposited from aqueous solutions on glass substrates is limited by the high surface tension and low evaporation rate of water. In this ...
Approaches to nuclear fuel assurance Balancing nonproliferation with energy security

Abstract Nuclear fuel assurances are the formal promises that international suppliers extend to consumers of nuclear fuel for the twin purpose of meeting energy security needs and discouraging the proliferation of nuclear weapons. This article examines various international perspectives on the implementation of fuel assurances and suggests that a supplier's unilateral ability to solve either problem may be far more limited than is commonly believed. The relevance of fuel assurances in future international regimes for nuclear energy will be dependent upon the future structure of the nuclear market and the political linkages that are made between energy security and nonproliferation commitments.
Central stimulation of renin secretion through serotonergic, noncardiovascular mechanisms.

The aims of the study were to determine; (1) whether activation of serotonin (5-HT) receptors in the brain increases renin secretion, and (2) whether the hypertensive effects of a 5-HT agonist and 5-HT releaser obscure their ability to stimulate renin release. Various drugs that increase serotonergic neurotransmission can activate the secretion of renin from the kidneys. Many of these drugs can also elevate blood pressure. Changes in blood pressure can alter renin secretion by activating renal baroreceptor mechanisms, so that a decrease in perfusion pressure will increase renin secretion and vice versa. To address the first objective, the 5-HT agonist RU 24969 (0, 10, 100 and 200 µg/kg) and the 5-HT releaser p-chloroamphetamine (0, 50, 500 and 1,000 µg/ kg) were injected intracerebroventricularly (ICV) at doses lower than those that are peripherally effective. ICV injection of RU 24969 dose-dependently increased plasma levels of renin. ICV injection of the 5-HT2A/5-HT2C antagonist LY53857 (50 µg/kg) inhibited the renin response to peripherally injected RU 24969 (0, 1, 5 and 10 mg/kg i.p.), suggesting that 5-HT2A/5-HT2C receptors in the brain mediate the effect of peripherally injected RU 24969 on renin secretion. In contrast, ICV injection of p-chloroamphetamine decreased renin secretion. To determine whether hypertensive actions could account for the differences between RU 24969 and p-chloroamphetamine, we measured the effects of both p-chloroamphetamine and RU 24969 on blood pressure and heart rate. ICV injection of p-chloroamphetamine (1,000 µg/kg) produced a large rise of 44 mm Hg at 2 min and 25 mm Hg at 5 min after injection, while ICV injection of RU 24969 (200 µg/kg) caused a slower and smaller blood pressure elevation of 18 mm Hg at 5 min after injection. To determine whether the hypertensive effects of both RU 24969 and p-chloroamphetamine could mask their effects on renin secretion, rats were pretreated with the α1 antagonist prazosin. Administration of prazosin (1 mg/kg s.c), which prevents the hypertensive effects of p-chloroamphetamine, exposed a stimulatory effect of ICV-injected p-chloroamphetamine (500 µg/kg) on renin secretion and potentiated the effect of RU 24969 (5 mg/kg i.p.) on renin release. In conclusion, these data suggest that both RU 24969 and p-chloroamphetamine increase renin secretion through central 5-HT receptors, and that these effects are partially obscured by their hypertensive actions.
Influence of CTA Reconstruction Software on Anatomic Measurements and Endograft Component Selection for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

anastomosis (ES) and a patch angioplasty (Patch). A third model required suturing around a clock-face design printed on patch material (CF). ACGME log experience was recorded. Secondary evaluations of the finished models were then performed by four blinded assessors. Results: Inter-rater reliability among the seven assessors was high (a 1⁄4 .91). Evaluations acquired by direct observation correlated well with participants’ training level/experience for all three models (ES r 1⁄4 .85/.83, Patch r 1⁄4 .71/.69, CF r 1⁄4 .82/.84). Highest correlation with training level/experience was obtained with a combined score for each participant incorporating all observed ratings on each model (r 1⁄4 .90/.93). Construct validity was demonstrated by each model’s ability to discern junior (Pre-MD to PGY2) from senior (PGY 3-5) trainees (ES P < .005, Patch P < .05, CF P < .001). Internal consistency was confirmed for each participant on all three models (a 1⁄4 .89). Finished product evaluation demonstrated fair to poor correlation with training level/experience (ES r 1⁄4 .58/.51, Patch r 1⁄4 .53/.44, CF r 1⁄4 .24/.12). Conclusions: These results provide construct validity for three vascular skill assessment models. Our data also demonstrates that the most accurate assessments are obtained by direct observation with trained evaluators. Validated models and experienced assessors should be considered obligatory components of a meaningful system for vascular skill testing and improvement.
Determination of the δ′ solvus line in AlLi alloys by measurement of the δ′ volume fraction

Dans les alliages Al-Li ou la fraction volumique de Al 3 Li(δ') est pratiquement la meme que la fraction molaire, l'equivalence de ces deux concepts peut etre utilise pour determiner la composition de la phase δ' par diffraction RX et metallographie quantitative. La phase δ' perd sa stœchiometrie lorsque la temperature augmente
A hypothesized unifying mechanism in neural function.

Es wird die Hypothese aufgestellt, wonach alle nervosen Prozesse auf Ligandenkomplexierung mit Rezeptordisulfiden und/oder Sulfhydrylprotomeren der Nervenmembranen beruhen und diese Prozesse mit Reduktions- bzw. Oxydationsprozessen gekoppelt sein konnten. Lernprozesse wurden auf dem gleichen Mechanismus beruhen.
Practical Ecocriticism: Literature, Biology, and the Environment

This text grounds environmental literature firmly in the life sciences, particularly evolutionary biology. It attempts to bridge the ever-widening gulf between the "Two Cultures". Glen Love - a founder of ecocriticism - argues that literary studies has been diminshed by a general lack of recognition for the vital role that the biological foundation of human life plays in cultural imagination. He presents with clarity and directness a model for how to incorporate Darwinian ideas - the basis for all modern biology and ecology - into ecocritical thinking. Beginning with an overview of the field of literature and environment and its claim to our attention and arguing for a biologically informed theoretical base for literary studies, Love then aims the lens of this critical perspective on the pastoral genre and works by canonical writers such as Willa Cather, Ernet Hemingway and William Dean Howells. This interdisciplinary work should be of interest to the entire ecocritical community, as well as humanists, social scientists and others concerned with the rediscovery of human nature.
ADENOCARCINOMA IN AN INDIANA POUCH AFTER CYSTECTOMY FOR TRANSITIONAL CELL CARCINOMA

With the increasing popularity of bladder substitution using bowel segments, the potential for malignancy needs to be considered. We report colonic adenocarcinoma in an Indiana pouch in a patient with no family history of gastrointestinal malignancies. To our knowledge, only 1 other similar case has been reported,1 which was thought to be due to hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer.
Investigation of SiO 2 etch properties using pulse power in capacitively coupled plasmas

The fluxes of radicals and ions to the wafer in plasma processing of microelectronic devices determine the quality of the etch or deposition. These fluxes are ultimately controlled by controlling and customizing the electron energy distribution function ƒ(e) which determines the dissociation patterns of feedstock gases. In quasi-steady state operation, an equilibrium condition for ƒ(e) results from a real time balance between electron sources and sinks. As such, for a given geometry, pressure and frequency of operation, there is not much latitude in controlling ƒ(e). By using pulse power, electron sources and sinks do not need to instantaneously balance - they need to balance only over the longer pulse period. This provides additional leverage to control ƒ(e). For example, during the power-on portion of the pulse cycle, high energy electrons are generated due to an overshoot of E/N above the steady state value. Then, in the power-off cycle, high energy electrons are quickly lost due to inelastic collisions and rapid diffusion losses to the wall. In these systems, ƒ(e) can be controlled through choice of the pulse repetition frequency (PRF) and duty cycle as these determine the relative role of thermalization. As a result, the fluxes to the wafer can also be controlled with these parameters. Hence, the etch properties during pulsed-operation may be controllably different than with continuous wave (CW) excited plasma.
Coding by Everyone, Every Day

In recent years, advances in machine learning and related fields have led to significant advances in a range of user-interface technologies, including audio processing, speech recognition, and natural language processing. These advances in turn have enabled speech-based digital assistants and speech-to-speech translation systems to become practical to deploy on a large scale. In essence, machines are becoming capable of hearing what we are saying. But will they understand what we want them to do when we talk to them? What are the prospects for getting useful work done in essence, by synthesizing programs -- through the act of having a conversation with a computer? In this lecture, I will speculate on the central role that programming-language design and program synthesis may have in this possible -- and I will argue, likely -- future of computing, one in which every user writes programs, every day, by conversing with a computing system.
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Aggression in Women and Girls: An Introduction

In this introduction to the papers in the special issue of Sex Roles on female aggression, I emphasize the range and variety of our subject and the need for a multiplicity of perspectives. In the work of the eleven authors contained in this volume we can see the utility of both relativist and universalists frameworks. I discuss the problems with identifying aggression and violence cross-culturally and underline the importance of incorporating other perspectives into our theories. I also discuss the potential advantages and shortcomings of phrasing our questions about women's and girls's aggression in terms of sexual difference.
SU-FF-J-10: Converting Cone-Beam CT to In-Room Conventional CT by a Deformable Image Registration Method

Purpose: Poor image quality in Cone‐beam CT(CBCT) usually poses a challenge for soft tissue based target localization or accurate dose calculation for adaptive radiotherapy. The purpose of this study is to develop an effective post‐processing method to drastically improve CBCTimage quality without losing anatomical and geometric information it provides. Method and Materials: We used an image‐based deformable registration algorithm to establish dense correspondence among voxels of the daily CBCT and the planning CTimages. Once the voxel‐by‐voxel correspondence is obtained, conventional CT numbers from the planning CT can be mapped to the geometrically aligned voxel locations of the daily CBCT. The converted CBCT (Mapped‐CBCT) maintains the geometrical information of the daily CBCT while retaining the more accurate electron density information from the original planning CT. A previously validated, in‐house developed “demons” algorithm was used in combination with an intensity pre‐processing method. Results: Soft tissue contrast is greatly enhanced in each of the prostate, lung, and head & neck cases we tested. In addition, various CBCTimaging artifacts, caused by beam hardening, detector response lag, scatter, and organ motion during CBCT acquisition etc., were all disappeared. Histogram distribution of voxel intensities in the soft tissue region showed a better tissue/fat separation in the mapped CBCT than the original CBCT. For a prostate case, we observed a 41% reduction in entropy, which further demonstrates improved soft‐tissue discrimination. Correspondence ambiguity in some anatomical objects is one limitation for this method. For example, the daily variation of rectal gas will not be presented if the rectum is empty in the planning CT.Conclusion: We demonstrated an effective voxel mapping procedure to match the CBCTimage to the quality of a conventional CT, which should improve online image evaluation or provide a more accurate CT data set for adaptive replanning or dose accumulation.
Marine Stratocumulus Layers. Part II: Turbulence Budgets

Abstract This paper discusses the turbulence profiles and budgets for two days of radiation, dynamical and thermodynamical observations by the NCAR Electra in shallow marine stratocumulus off the California coast in June 1976. The boundary layer is characterized by relatively high wind speeds (12–20 m s−1) and low liquid water contents (0.1 g kg−1); the clouds are not very convective and seem to have little influence on the turbulence budgets. In cloud, drizzle has a significant impact on the liquid water budget and occasionally even on the total water budget even though no drizzle is observed at the surface. The stresses, velocity variances, and their budgets behave as in a neutral boundary layer, sometimes with an additional peak in the cross-wind variance at the inversion due to shear production. There is scant evidence of direct production of vertical velocity variance at cloud top due to radiative cooling or latent heat release; it is maintained principally by the pressure-scrambling terms through re...
A comprehensive approach to monitoring in management systems for forest pests

Abstract Although management of forest pests has advanced rapidly over the past decade in many countries where intensive forestry is practiced, the development of monitoring systems — or, more broadly, the information base — required to support newly-emerging programs is generally lagging. A more comprehensive approach to monitoring, which includes improved accounting of pest occurrence and damage through forest inventories and reliable indices of pest-related hazard and risk, is needed to augment customary procedures of surveillance and evaluation. Also, optimization of pest management strategies requires a better accounting of the interactive effects of destructive insects and diseases and, thus, monitoring of pest complexes as they occur, rather than uncoordinated monitoring of individual pests. Full realization of the potential benefits of forest pest management depends on replacing the present-day fragmented approach to monitoring with a broader-based information system directed to the prime decision-maker, the forest resource manager.
Sensing vehicle dynamics for determining driver phone use

This paper utilizes smartphone sensing of vehicle dynamics to determine driver phone use, which can facilitate many traffic safety applications. Our system uses embedded sensors in smartphones, i.e., accelerometers and gyroscopes, to capture differences in centripetal acceleration due to vehicle dynamics. These differences combined with angular speed can determine whether the phone is on the left or right side of the vehicle. Our low infrastructure approach is flexible with different turn sizes and driving speeds. Extensive experiments conducted with two vehicles in two different cities demonstrate that our system is robust to real driving environments. Despite noisy sensor readings from smartphones, our approach can achieve a classification accuracy of over $90\%$ with a false positive rate of a few percent. We also find that by combining sensing results in a few turns, we can achieve better accuracy (e.g., $95\%$) with a lower false positive rate.
Maximum multiplicity distributions (MMD)

This paper proposes and explores the implications of a new interconnect length distribution that is referred to as the maximum multiplicity distribution (MMD). This distribution has the property of having the largest number of placement configurations (i.e. multiplicity) for a given average wire length and could have significant advantages for interconnect-centric CAD algorithms. Experimental investigation using ISCAS'85 benchmark circuits illustrates that finding a placement that results in the MMD distribution could result in a significant decrease in global interconnect area.
Differential expression analysis of MIM (MTSS1) splice variants and a functional role of MIM in prostate cancer cell biology

We previously identified MIM-A (missing in metastasis, MTSS1) by differential display techniques as missing in invasive, metastatic bladder cancer cell lines and suggested that MIM-A is a novel putative metastasis suppressor gene. Characterization of the MIM gene revealed a WH2 (Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein homology 2) domain in the C-terminus that is known to bind actin monomers and regulate organization of the actin cytoskeleton. Here, we further describe two alternatively splice variants of MIM-A, called MIM(12del) and MIM-B, which share > 50% amino acid sequence homology with MIM-A in the C-terminal domain. We show that expression of all three transcripts is down-regulated in prostate cancer cell lines and tumor samples from patients. In addition, we generated stably-transfected PC-3 cells overexpressing MIM-A to evaluate the importance of MIM-A in prostate cancer biology. The initial experiments show that expression of MIM decreased the number of actin filaments and was associated with a decrease in the G:F actin ratio. Overexpression of MIM-A had no effect on PC-3 cell adhesion to extracellular matrices, as well as no effect on PC-3 motility. Further, overexpression of MIM-A reduced the rate of PC-3 cell proliferation. These results support the hypothesis that MIM-A is an actin-binding protein and implicate a role of MIM-A in the regulation of cellular proliferation. These data suggest that the reduction of MIM-A gene expression in prostate cancer and other cancers may contribute to tumor growth and development, as well as metastasis.
Simulation of a low-cost method for solar-heating an aquaculture pond

Abstract A greenhouse computer model was used to predict the temperature change of a solar-heated aquaculture pond that is insulated with a double layer of transparent plastic film suspended over the pond. The results showed that a 9° C rise in water temperature can be achieved in January in Phoenix, AZ. This implies that such covers could allow year-round aquaculture production in Phoenix and other southern U.S. areas. Furthermore, the economics of a covered nursery pond operation appear particularly attractive.
Use of intravenous immunoglobulin in sensitized LVAD recipients.

HEART transplantation remains standard surgical therapy for select patients with end-stage heart failure. Due to longer waiting list times, an increasing number of potential recipients require mechanical circulatory support as a bridge to transplantation. However, placement of mechanical cardiac assist devices often leads to the use of multiple blood products and results in high levels of preformed cytotoxic alloantibodies to MHC class I antigen. We hypothesized that the use of intravenous immune gamma globulin (IVIG) would decrease the level of preformed cytotoxic alloantibodies. We report the use of IVIG in these highly sensitized patients awaiting heart transplantation on mechanical circulatory support.
Human Interactions with Free-Ranging and Captive Bottlenose Dolphins

ABSTRACTThe popular demand for encounters with dolphins has resulted in organized encounters around the world involving in-water interactions with both captive and free-ranging dolphins. Many concerns about these interactions have been raised with regard to the well-being of human and dolphin participants (e.g. Capaldo 1989; Iannuzzi and Rowan 1991). In this paper we (a) review existing information on human/dolphin interactions, (b) provide a qualitative comparison of such interactions in the captive and in the wild with the same species of dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), and (c) make suggestions regarding future research needs regarding the wellbeing of dolphins and humans in interactive programs.This study found that the free-ranging dolphin/human interactions consisted primarily of basic elements of intraspecific interactions among free-ranging dolphins. Interactive dolphin behaviors in the captive environment consisted primarily of actions that had been signaled and then reinforced by humans. Potential ...
Facile Two-Step Synthesis of 2-(2′-Aminobenzylamino)benzyl Alcohol, a Naturally Occurring Amine from Justicia gendarussa

Abstract A very simple and preparatively efficient two-step synthesis of the title compound 1, a basic constituent of the Indian medicinal plant Justicia gendarussa is accomplished via reductive alkylation of 2-aminobenzyl alcohol using zinc chloride and zinc borohydride.
Optimal Small-Capacitor Biphasic Waveform for External Defibrillation Influence of Phase-1 Tilt and Phase-2 Voltage

Background—Biphasic waveforms have been reported to be more efficacious than monophasic waveforms for external defibrillation. This study examined the optimal phase-1 tilts and phase-2 leading-edge voltages with small capacitors (60 and 20 μF) for external defibrillation. We also assessed the ability of the “charge-burping” model to predict the optimal waveforms. Methods and Results—Two groups of studies were performed. In group 1, 9 biphasic waveforms from a combination of 3 phase-1 tilt values (30%, 50%, and 70%) and 3 phase-2 leading-edge voltage values (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 times the phase-1 leading-edge voltage, V1) were tested. Phase-2 pulse width was held constant at 3 ms in all waveforms. Two separate 60-μF capacitors were used in each phase. The energy value that would produce a 50% likelihood of successful defibrillation (E50) decreased with increasing phase-1 tilt and increased with increasing phase-2 leading-edge voltage except for the 30% phase-1 tilt waveforms. In group 2, 9 waveforms were iden...
Antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella enterica serovar Dublin isolates from beef and dairy sources

Salmonella enterica serovar Dublin (S. Dublin) is a cattle-adapted Salmonella serovar, so if antimicrobial resistance in S. Dublin arises as a result of antimicrobial use this most likely occurs within the cattle reservoir without impact from antimicrobial use in humans. We tested the antimicrobial resistance of bovine-origin S. Dublin isolates from 1986 through 2004 using a standard disk diffusion method. High proportions of isolates throughout the time period were resistant to one or more antimicrobials, and a marked increase in resistance to ceftazidime occurred between 2000 and 2004. Dairy-origin isolates were more likely to be resistant to several antibiotics than were isolates from beef operations where exposure to antimicrobials is likely to be less frequent. Plasmid analysis of a subset of isolates also supported the hypothesis that antimicrobial resistance traits in the cattle-adapted serovar Dublin were acquired within the bovine host environment.
Isoflavone genistein protects human vascular endothelial cells against tumor necrosis factor-α-induced apoptosis through the p38β mitogen-activated protein kinase

Isoflavone genistein may have beneficial effects on vascular function, but the mechanism is unclear. Here, we investigated whether genistein protects vascular endothelial cells against apoptosis induced by tumor necrosis factor-α. We show that genistein significantly inhibited TNF-α-induced apoptosis in human aortic endothelial cells as determined by caspase-3 activation, 7-amino actinomycin D staining, in situ apoptotic cell detection and DNA laddering. The anti-apoptotic effect of genistein was associated with an enhanced expression of Bcl-2 protein and its promoter activity. Inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, protein kinase A, or estrogen receptors had no effect on the cytoprotective effect of genistein. However, inhibition of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38) completely abolished this genistein effect. Accordingly, stimulation of HAECs with genistein resulted in rapid activation of p38β, but not p38α. These findings provide the evidence that genistein acts as a survival factor for vascular ECs to protect cells against apoptosis via activation of p38β. Preservation of the functional integrity of the endothelial monolayer may represent an important mechanism by which genistein exerts its vasculoprotective effect.
Distinct lateral and medial projections of the spinohypothalamic tract of the rat

We recently described a direct nociceptive projection from the spinal cord to the hypothalamus in the rat. Several electrophysiological studies of this projection indicated that the axons of some spinohypothalamic tract neurons (SHT) reach the hypothalamus either by a lateral or by a medial route. The purpose of this study was to determine the origin of all SHT neurons that reach the hypothalamus through the lateral and the medial projections, and to investigate the possibility of ablating the SHT without damaging other important sensory and motor tracts by combining retrograde tracing techniques with axonal ablation. As compared with control cases, significant (P < .05) reductions in the number of labeled SHT neurons were encountered, 26% in the ipsilateral spinal cord following lesions of the medial projection, 67% in the contralateral spinal cord following lesions of the lateral projection, and 94% in both contra- and ipsilateral sides following lesions of both the medial and lateral projections. Bilateral lesions of the lateral projections had no effect on the distribution of labeled neurons in the spinal cord and dorsal column nuclei following injections of Fluoro-Gold (FG) into the thalamus, and a small unilateral lesion of the lateral projection reduced the ipsilateral labeling in the motor cortex following injections of FG into the pyramidal decussation. These findings suggest that most SHT neurons ascend through the contralateral lateral projection and that less than half continue in the medial projection to the ipsilateral side. They also suggest a site that can be lesioned without affecting other ascending sensory spinal pathways.
Direct DNA hybridization screening of primary yeast transformants in the construction of targeted yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) libraries.

Abstract A simple and inexpensive method for direct, large-scale DNA hybridization screening of primary yeast colonies following introduction of foreign DNA into Saccharomyces cerevisiae by spheroplast transformation is presented. An optimally thin layer of standard regeneration agar containing the transformed spheroplasts is spread on selective plates using carefully controlled temperature conditions; the colonies regenerate initially within the thin layer of hardened regeneration agar, but as they grow, > 90% of them break the surface and become accessible to direct lifting and screening methods. The technique avoids the manual or mechanized picking of transformants from within the regeneration top agar, does not require specialized (and often expensive) regeneration matrices such as alginate or low-melting-point agarose, and yields transformation efficiencies and screening results identical to those obtained using the standard spheroplast transformation protocol. We demonstrate the utility of this method for the construction of a targeted human-YAC library from a hamster hybrid cell line that contains chromosome 13 as its only human DNA.
Film Noir and Automotive Isolation in Los Angeles

This essay examines the emergence of a now dominant transportation system through the critical perspective of film noir. In the 1940s, Los Angeles began redesigning itself to better accommodate the automobile. At the same time, two films by Billy Wilder provided a subtle critique of this accommodation. The criminality of Double Indemnity (1944) depends on the same fantasy in technical rationality that legitimized highway planning. Sunset Boulevard(1950) mocks the planned obsolescence inspired by the automobile industry. Both films depict the landscape created by cars as deeply isolating. The analysis of T. W. Adorno and Max Horkheimer, who also lived in Los Angeles at this time, is used to draw out the theoretical implications of Wilder’s films and to further locate a pessimism toward the automobile lifestyle at the time and place of its rise to power.
Abstract B70: Race, age, and advanced stage colorectal cancer survival

African Americans (AA) have worse survival from colorectal cancer (CRC) compared to European Americans (EA), but the reasons for the racial differences in stage-specific survival are poorly understood. To address this gap, we analyzed population-based data from the South Carolina Central Cancer Registry (SCCCR) to examine racial differences in advanced stage survival before and after the introduction of the new chemotherapeutic regimens in 2004 and to integrate information on race, age, and pathologic prognostic tumor characteristics and survival. The study focused on metastatic disease because of similar recommended standard therapy, the large racial difference in the relative survival, and a documented change in chemotherapy usage in 2004. The study population was comprised of data from patients with newly diagnosed advanced stage CRC (SEER staging distant) from 1/1/96 through 12/31/06 with follow-up data until 12/31/07. Analyses were designed to compare AA to EA by computing median survival and hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CIs to model the hazard of death as a function of race, controlling for age, sex, year of diagnosis, and first-line chemotherapy treatment. We assessed interactions between race and age, gender, colorectal location, histologic type, and grade on overall survival. Data from 3463 (1057 AA and 2406 EA) patients with advanced stage colorectal adenocarcinoma were evaluated. 732 AA and 1707 EA were diagnosed before 2004. Compared to EA, AA were more likely to be younger, female, have proximal cancers, have lower tumor grades, and were less likely to report first line chemotherapy usage. Histologic type or year of diagnosis did not significantly differ by race. Overall survival among AA and EA differed by age, with the racial difference in survival most pronounced among those Citation Information: Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2011;20(10 Suppl):B70.