cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An ambient self-curable latex based on colloidal dispersions in water of two functionalized polymers and the thermally reversible crosslinked films generated

An ambient self-curable latex (ASCL) was prepared by mixing colloidal dispersions in water of a chloromethylstyrene (CMS)-functionalized polymer and a tertiary-amine-functionalized polymer. The two dispersions were obtained via the conventional emulsion copolymerization of CMS and 2-(dimethylamino)ethylacrylate (DMAEA), respectively, with styrene (St), butyl acrylate (BA), or both. No visible coagulation was observed either in the blends after 6 months of storage or after the latexes were introduced into aqueous media with pHs in the range of 3–11. Continuous, transparent, crosslinked elastic films with smooth surfaces were obtained via casting and drying the ASCL at room temperature, when one or both of the two functional polymer particles contained BA monomeric units. Thermocompression cycles; swelling experiments; solubility tests; and 1H NMR, IR, DSC, and transmission electron microscopy tests were carried out to investigate the crosslinking and morphology of the films. The following observations were made: (1) the crosslinks in the films were generated via the Menschutkin reaction (quaternization) between the CH2-Cl groups of the CMS containing particles and the amine groups of the DMAEA containing particles; (2) the crosslinked films were thermally remoldable due to reversible decrosslinking (dequaternization) on heating and recrosslinking (requaternization) on cooling; and (3) phase separation in the films was observed when one of the functional polymers (for instance, the nonpolar CMS-St copolymer) was incompatible with the other one (for instance, the polar BA-DMAEA copolymer). The present ASCL might be useful in producing water-borne coatings and adhesives, elastic films, and functional membranes. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci A: Polym Chem 39: 389–397, 2001
Introduction to the special issue of Substance Use and Misuse on substance misuse and aggression.

:The evidence is clear and substantial. The acute use of alcohol/drugs andinterpersonalaggressionreadilymix.Manydrugsarerelatedtoviolentbehaviorandsomeprovideinsightintopossiblemechanisms.Thelistofdrugsimplicatedisveryinclusiveandifcasereportsareconsidered,evensomeantianxietydrugslist relevant pharmacopia warnings of increased aggression. (Pihl & Sutton,2009, p. 1188)So, the editors have attempted to bring together a number of articles by distinguishedand experienced scientistsworking in this area of investigation that address thisrelationshipfrom various perspectives. Their charge was not only to report some of the best works beingdone but also to point the way toward better avenues of investigation or intervention. Theworks of the authors have more than met the highest expectations of the editors and webelieve that this special issue makes a signiﬁcant contribution to the ﬁeld. So well wroughtand comprehensive are the works of the authors that the editors are at a loss as to howto best introduce this special issue for fear of not doing their work justice. However, anintroduction is required, so asking the authors’ indulgence, the editors will make the effort.In their article, “Drug Use and Aggression Readily Mix; So What Now?,” R.O. Pihland Rachael Sutton explore the relationship between substance use and aggression. Theythen focus on what is known about other factors, both sociocultural and individual, thatseem to strengthen the correlation. Using this as their empirical base, they then discussthe possibilities and perils of public policy interventions. They end by exploring individualinterventions that target anger and problems in executive cognitive functioning. In takingthe approach they do, these authors create a theme of translational research, of using whatis empirically known about a problem as the guide to developing effective interventionsthat will run through all the articles in this issue in one form or another.
Lack of dust in quasar absorption line systems

THE origin of the absorption line systems in quasars is still uncertain1. Most such systems apparently have column densities of atomic hydrogen of the order of 1019cm−2, but, at least two quasars, 1331 + 170 (ref. 2) and PHL957 (ref. 3), have such strong Lyman a absorption lines that atomic hydrogen column densities of the order of 1021 cm−2 are indicated. It should be possible to observe the dust produced 2,200 A extinction bump as it is redshifted into the visible4, and to determine whether the absorption line systems are produced in spiral galaxies where the dust content is similar to that in the interstellar medium. McKee and Petrosian4 argue that the emission line regions of quasars generally lack dust, and that toward PHL957 the 2,200 A feature is absent. From recent published data, I argue that dust similar to that found in the interstellar medium is not found toward the quasars 1331 + 170 and PHL 957. This could explain why H2 is not found toward PHL 957, and it also indicates that the absorption line systems in quasars are not produced in spiral galaxies similar to ours.
Combining sampling-based and scenario-based nested Benders decomposition methods: application to stochastic dual dynamic programming

Nested Benders decomposition is a widely used and accepted solution methodology for multi-stage stochastic linear programming problems. Motivated by large-scale applications in the context of hydro-thermal scheduling, in 1991, Pereira and Pinto introduced a sampling-based variant of the Benders decomposition method, known as stochastic dual dynamic programming (SDDP). In this paper, we embed the SDDP algorithm into the scenario tree framework, essentially combining the nested Benders decomposition method on trees with the sampling procedure of SDDP. This allows for the incorporation of different types of uncertainties in multi-stage stochastic optimization while still maintaining an efficient solution algorithm. We provide an illustration of the applicability of our method towards a least-cost hydro-thermal scheduling problem by examining an illustrative example combining both fuel cost with inflow uncertainty and by studying the Panama power system incorporating both electricity demand and inflow uncertainties.
Sequential Degradation of αII and βII Spectrin by Calpain in Glutamate or Maitotoxin-Stimulated Cells†

Calpain-catalyzed proteolysis of II-spectrin is a regulated event associated with neuronal long-term potentiation, platelet and leukocyte activation, and other processes. Calpain proteolysis is also linked to apoptotic and nonapoptotic cell death following excessive glutamate exposure, hypoxia, HIV-gp120/160 exposure, or toxic injury. The molecular basis for these divergent consequences of calpain action, and their relationship to spectrin proteolysis, is unclear. Calpain preferentially cleaves II spectrin in vitro in repeat 11 between residues Y1176 and G1177. Unless stimulated by Ca++ and calmodulin (CaM), betaII spectrin proteolysis in vitro is much slower. We identify additional unrecognized sites in spectrin targeted by calpain in vitro and in vivo. Bound CaM induces a second II spectrin cleavage at G1230*S1231. BetaII spectrin is cleaved at four sites. One cleavage only occurs in the absence of CaM at high enzyme-to-substrate ratios near the betaII spectrin COOH-terminus. CaM promotes II spectrin cleavages at Q1440*S1441, S1447*Q1448, and L1482*A1483. These sites are also cleaved in the absence of CaM in recombinant II spectrin fusion peptides, indicating that they are probably shielded in the spectrin heterotetramer and become exposed only after CaM binds alphaII spectrin. Using epitope-specific antibodies prepared to the calpain cleavage sites in both alphaII and betaII spectrin, we find in cultured rat cortical neurons that brief glutamate exposure (a physiologic ligand) rapidly stimulates alphaII spectrin cleavage only at Y1176*G1177, while II spectrin remains intact. In cultured SH-SY5Y cells that lack an NMDA receptor, glutamate is without effect. Conversely, when stimulated by calcium influx (via maitotoxin), there is rapid and sequential cleavage of alphaII and then betaII spectrin, coinciding with the onset of nonapoptotic cell death. These results identify (i) novel calpain target sites in both alphaII and betaII spectrin; (ii) trans-regulation of proteolytic susceptibility between the spectrin subunits in vivo; and (iii) the preferential cleavage of alphaII spectrin vs betaII spectrin when responsive cells are stimulated by engagement of the NMDA receptor. We postulate that calpain proteolysis of spectrin can activate two physiologically distinct responses: one that enhances skeletal plasticity without destroying the spectrin-actin skeleton, characterized by preservation of betaII spectrin; or an alternative response closely correlated with nonapoptotic cell death and characterized by proteolysis of betaII spectrin and complete dissolution of the spectrin skeleton.
Treatment of duck hepatitis B virus by antisense poly-2'-O-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-oligoribonucleotides.

The poly-2'-O-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-oligoribonucleotide (poly-DNP-RNA) with antisense sequence 5'ggguguauggaaaagccguc-3' was designed to target the sequence 2468-2487 in the polymerase gene of duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV). The stereochemically pure RNA was synthesized by using T7 RNA polymerase with synthetic DNA template and subsequently derivatized with 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene in mild basic conditions to make the poly-DNP-RNA with an average DNP/base ratio of 0.7. In vitro studies showed that this antisense poly-DNP-RNA can hybridize with sense DNA and has high resistance to RNase A digestion. These poly-DNP-RNA were also found to be potent sequence-independent inhibitors of the reverse transcriptase activity of DHBV DNA-polymerase. For in vivo studies, DHBV-infected ducks were treated with antisense, sense, and random noncomplementary sequence poly-DNP-RNA, respectively. The data showed that the antisense poly-DNP-RNA completely inhibited the duck viremia in all nine ducks that had been treated with a dose of 1 mg/kg (i.v.) per day for 25 days. The viremia did not come back after 10 months recession. In the sense group, three of the four ducks showed no inhibition, and in the random group, both ducks maintained their viremia. After 45 days of treatment with the antisense poly-DNP-RNA, followed by 2 weeks of recession, PCR as well as QC-PCR assay and microscopic examination showed that viral DNA had disappeared in liver and that the histology of the damaged liver (filled with fat granules) had returned to normal.
Longitudinal Prediction of the One-Year Course of Preschool ADHD Symptoms: Implications for Models of Temperament-ADHD Associations

Abstract Despite the fact that Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often conceptualized as an extreme trait, there remains controversy about the best way to understand associations between temperament traits and ADHD. The current study examines longitudinal associations between temperament traits and ADHD during early childhood in order to critically examine vulnerability and spectrum models of trait–ADHD associations. Study participants were 109 children between the ages of 3 and 6 and their primary caregivers and teachers/daycare providers, community-recruited for ADHD-related problems. Primary caregivers completed the Kiddie Disruptive Behavior Disorders Schedule semi-structured diagnostic interview at the initial appointment and one year later. At the initial appointment, primary caregivers completed the Child Behavior Questionnaire as a measure of child temperament traits. Results from the initial time point indicated that high neuroticism and high surgency were associated with inattentive and hyperactive–impulsive ADHD symptoms, and low effortful control was associated with hyperactive–impulsive ADHD symptoms. However, none of these traits predicted the one-year course of ADHD symptoms. Results are more consistent with a spectrum (vs. vulnerability) model of trait–psychopathology associations, suggesting that traits may not influence longitudinal course during early childhood.
Abnormal Genital Bleeding and Secondary Amenorrhea: Common Gynecological Problems

Abnormal genital bleeding and secondary amenorrhea (cessation of menses) are common gynecologic complaints that can indicate serious physical problems. Abnormal genital bleeding is the most common reason for a gynecological office visit and a leading indication for dilatation of the cervix and curettage of the uterus. One of four women with abnormal genital bleeding may have serious physical problems. Although pregnancy is the most common cause of secondary amenorrhea, other conditions related to abnormal pregnancy, functional disorders, physiological changes, or pathology also must be considered. Procedures for evaluating abnormal genital bleeding and secondary amenorrhea are discussed. Information is provided to assist nurses in collecting and assessing data and planning interventions to promote the health of women with these common problems.
Seasonal and Annual Variation in Weight and Biochemical Content of the Zebra Mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, in Lake St. Clair

Abstract Zebra mussels, Dreissena polymorpha, were collected monthly from April/May to November in 1990 and 1991 from two sites in Lake St. Clair. The sites were characterized by relatively high and low mussel densities. The following variables were measured: ash-free dry weight (AFDW) per unit shell length (SL), lipid content and classes, carbon content, and nitrogen content. Mussels from the high-density site had a lower AFDW:SL relationship, lower lipid content, and a lower C:N ratio than mussels from the low-density site. Seasonal trends in these variables were consistent between sites and years. AFDW:SL, lipid, and carbon content were highest in the spring and then declined to minimum levels in late summer/fall. The mean seasonal decline in weight from spring to late summer for a standard 15-mm mussel was 60%. This decline was greater than might be expected from gamete release alone and was likely a result of nutritional stress from warm summer temperatures and limited food supplies. Between 1990 and 1991, the mean AFDW of a 15-mm mussel declined 34% and 50% at the high- and low-density site, respectively. However, when C:N ratios and lipid levels in 1990 and 1991 were compared, C:N ratios were only lower in fall 1991 compared to fall 1990, and lipid levels for the 2 years were generally similar.
RESPONSE OF COMPOSITE PANELS WITH STIFFNESS GRADIENTS DUE TO STIFFENER TERMINATIONS AND CUTOUTS

The results of an analytical and experimental study of stiffened graphite-epoxy compression panels with terminated stiffeners are presented. The local stress gradients at the stiffener termination location are determined by finite element analysis. Three stiffener termination concepts are evaluated by analysis to determine the stiffener and skin laminate parameters that affect the panel response and failure. The effects of changing local skin laminate definitions, skin reinforcement details, and stiffener termination details on local stress gradients and load-path eccentricities are discussed. Analytical and test results are presented for panels with one terminated stiffener and for panels with one terminated stiffener and two unterminated stiffeners. The effects of a cutout in the skin of a panel with a terminated stiffener is also evaluated to determine the interaction between the stress gradients in the panel due to the cutout and those due to the terminated stiffener. The results of the study indicate that the critical failure modes of the panels initiate at the skin-stiffener interface near the end of the terminated stiffener.
Diterpenoid metabolites from pacific marine algae of the order Caulerpales (Chlorophyta)

Abstract Chemical investigations of two new species of Udotea , reinvestigation of Tydemania expeditionis and Chlorodesmis fastigiata from Guam and Saipan, Marianas Islands, as well as studies of Caulerpa brownii from Southern Australia, have led to the isolation of four new related diterpenoids and several previously described metabolites. These metabolites possess antimicrobial activities and inhibit cell division in the fertilized sea urchin egg bioassay.
Infrared lattice reflection spectra of III–V compound semiconductors

Abstract The fundamental lattice reflection band of InSb, InAs, GaSb and GaAs has been measured at liquid helium temperature with a grating spectrometer. By comparing the observed spectrum with that calculated using a single classical dispersion oscillator, the following values of the transverse ( v 0 ) and longitudinal ( v l ) optical frequencies for long wavelength vibrations and Szigeti effective ionic charge ( e ∗ 8 / e ) are obtained: InSb, v 0 = 184.7 ± 3 cm −1 , v l = 197.2 ± 2, e 8 ∗ e = 0.42; InAs , v 0 = 218.9 ± 3 cm −1 , v l = 243.3 ± 2, e 8 ∗ e = 0.56; GaSb , v 0 = 230.5 ± 3 cm −1 , v l = 240.3 ± 2, e 8 ∗ e = 0.33; GaAs , v 0 = 273.3 ± 3 cm −1 , v l = 297.3 ± 2, e 8 ∗ e = 0.51; InP , v 0 = 307 ± 8 cm −1 , v l = 351 ± 5, e 8 ∗ e = 0.68; AlSb , v 0 = 318 ± 8 cm −1 , v l = 345 ± 5, e 8 ∗ e = 0.53 The values for InP and AlSb were obtained by a reanalysis of earlier room temperature data. An empirical dependence of e 8 ∗ e on the difference between the atomic polarizabilities of the group III and group V atoms has been observed.
Controversies in venous ultrasound

Ultrasound is the principal method used for diagnosing deep venous thrombosis in the United States, and its accuracy and limitations are well known. As venous ultrasound examination has matured, several controversial issues, primarily clinical, have arisen concerning the application of this diagnostic method. This article addresses some of the more noteworthy and vexing issues, including, but not limited to (a) the need to examine both legs in patients with unilateral symptoms; (b) the role of venous ultrasound in patients with bilateral leg swelling; (c) the necessary extent of the venous ultrasound examination; (d) the importance of calf vein thrombosis; (e) the significance of negative leg veins in a patient with possible pulmonary embolus; and (f) deep venous thrombosis in patients with occult malignancy. Technical aspects of the venous ultrasound examination, and diagnostic accuracy are not described.
Advances in ethanol production

Barriers to the commercialization of lignocellulosic ethanol include the development of more robust biocatalysts, reduction of cellulase costs, and high capital cost associated with a complex process. Improvements have been made in all areas during the past two years. Oxidoreductases, transporters, and regulators have been identified that can increase the tolerance of biocatalysts to inhibitors formed during pretreatment. Biocatalysts are being developed that grow under conditions that are optimal for cellulase activity and others have been engineered to produce glycoside hydrolases. Ethanol yields resulting from most current process configurations are similar, approximately 0.21 g ethanol/g dry cellulosic feedstock. Potentially, this can be increased to at least 0.27 g ethanol/g biomass (83 gal/ton) using simpler processes.
Trauma and multiple sclerosis

The belief that trauma may precede or exacerbate multiple sclerosis (MS) has come primarily from anecdotal reports and case series that provide no rates and no basis for critical comparison. Each year in the United States, approximately 10,000 persons develop MS. A high proportion of the estimated 250,000 prevalence cases have one or more exacerbations, whereas one-third (or 83,000,000 persons in the United States) suffer a memorable injury; therefore, when trauma precedes MS onset or exacerbation, coincidence, as well as causal association, must be considered. For many patients, MS disability may have precipitated an injury, rather than follow one. Two major prospective cohort studies of MS indicate that physical trauma is not responsible for onset or exacerbation. A prospective cohort of patients with MS followed for eight years at the University of Arizona has failed to demonstrate an association between physical trauma and exacerbation. At the Mayo Clinic, cohorts identified in the Olmsted County, Minnesota population with MS, head injury (819), and lumbar disk surgery (942) demonstrated no correlation between onset or exacerbation of MS. Thus, on the basis of credible epidemiological studies, and particularly the studies of cohorts with MS and with trauma, there is no indication that either onset or exacerbation of MS is the result of physical trauma.
Effects of Hydration on Nanoscale Structural Morphology and Mechanics of Individual Type I Collagen Fibrils

Type I collagen is one of the most vital proteins in our bodies and serves a number of structural roles. Despite collagen’s importance, little is known about its nanoscale morphology in tissues and how morphology relates to mechanical function. This study directly probes nanoscale structure and mechanics in collagen as a function of hydration utilizing atomic force microscopy investigations of the mouse tail tendon. We demonstrate that collagen morphology and mechanical properties at the nanoscale change with dehydration, indicating that hydration is a factor which must be considered when performing studies at any length scale in collagen-based tissues. Studies are underway to further investigate this phenomenon and to determine how these properties change with disease in tendon and other Type I collagen-based tissues.
Syntheses of olefin and acetylene complexes, [Ru(C5H5)(PMe3)2(un)]PF6

Abstract Reactions of Ru(C 5 H 5 )(PMe 3 ) 2 Cl with various olefins and acetylenes, followed by NH 4 PF 6 addition, have produced the compounds [Ru(C 5 H 5 )(PMe 3 ) 2 -(un)PF 6 (un  CH 2 CHPh, CH 2 CHCN, CH 2 CHCH 3 , trans -ClCHCHCl, cis -EtO 2 CCHCHCO 2 Et, PhCCPh, EtCCEt, MeO 2 CCCCO 2 Me) The same reaction with 1,5-cyclooctadiene gave [{Ru(C 5 H 5 )-(PMe 3 ) 2 } 2 C 8 H 12 ](PF 6 ) 2 . Similar reactions ofPhCCH or PhCCSiMe 3 gave the carboalkylidene complex [Ru(C 5 H 5 )(PMe 3 ) 2 (CCHPh)]PF 6 .
Interferon regulatory factors 4 and 8 induce the expression of Ikaros and Aiolos to down-regulate pre-B-cell receptor and promote cell-cycle withdrawal in pre-B-cell development.

Pre-B lymphocytes consist of 2 distinct cell populations: large pre-B and small pre-B. The large pre-B cells are newly generated pre-B cells that express pre–B-cell receptor (pre-BCR) on the surface and are highly proliferative; small pre-B cells are derived from large pre-B cells that have down-regulated pre-BCR and withdrawn from cell cycle. The molecular events that mediate the transition from cycling pre-B to small, resting pre-B have not been fully elucidated. Here, we show that interferon regulatory factors 4 and 8 (IRF4,8) suppress surrogate light chain expression and down-regulate pre-BCR in pre-B cells. Our studies further reveal that IRF4,8 induce the expression of Ikaros and Aiolos in pre-B cells, and reconstitution of expression of either one is sufficient to suppress surrogate light chain expression and down-regulate pre-BCR in pre-B cells lacking IRF4,8. Interestingly, our results also indicate that pre-B cells undergo growth inhibition and cell-cycle arrest in the presence of IRF4,8. Moreover, we provide evidence that Ikaros and Aiolos are indispensable for the down-regulation of pre-BCR and the cell-cycle withdrawal mediated by IRF4,8. Thus, IRF4,8 orchestrate the transition from large pre-B to small pre-B cells by inducing the expression of Ikaros and Aiolos.
Intracellular distribution of mucosubstances in the major sublingual gland of the rat

The intracellular distribution of mucosubstances in the acinar cells of the rat sublingual gland has been studied at the electron microscopic level by means of two histochemical techniques: PA-silver methenamine for the detection of vicinal glycols and colloidal thorium for the detection of polyanions. By both methods the secretory granules in the mucous acinar cells were selectively stained. The reaction products were visualized as dense closely packed precipitates covering the entire matrix of the individual mucous granules. Similar reaction products were also often observed within the Golgi apparatus of the mucous cells. In striking contrast, the secretory granules and Golgi apparatus of the demilunar cells exhibited no demonstrable selective staining by either method. It is concluded that the secretory granules of the mucous acinar cells are largely composed of mucosubstances containing vicinal glycols and polyanions and that the secretory granules in demilunar cells contain no demonstrable content of such mucosubstances.
A 256-Kb Dual- ${V}_{\rm CC}$ SRAM Building Block in 65-nm CMOS Process With Actively Clamped Sleep Transistor

This paper addresses the stability problem of SRAM cells used in dense last level caches (LLCs). In order for the LLC not to limit the minimum voltage at which a processor core can run, a dual-VCC 256-Kb SRAM building block is proposed. A fixed high-voltage supply powers the cache which allows the use of the smallest SRAM cell for maximum density, while a separate variable supply is used by the core for ultra-low-voltage operation using dynamic voltage and frequency (DVF). Implemented in a 65-nm bulk CMOS process, the block features low overhead embedded level shifters and an actively clamped sleep transistor for maximum cache leakage power reduction during standby. Measured results show that the proposed block runs at 4.2GHz while consuming 30 mW at 85degC and 1.2V supply. Furthermore, measurements across a wide range of process, voltage, temperature, and aging conditions indicate virtual ground clamping accuracy within a few millivolts of required cache standby VMIN. Extrapolating the 256-Kb block measurement results in a large 64-Mb LLC used in a dual-V CC processor gives 35% reduction in total processor power as compared with a single-VCC processor design running at a high supply voltage
Convergent Evolution and Divergent Selection: Lizards at the White Sands Ecotone

Ecological transition zones, where organismal pheno- types result from a delicate balance between selection and migration, highlight the interplay of local adaptation and gene flow. Here, I study the response of an entire species assemblage to natural selection across a common ecotone. Three lizard species, distributed along a dramatic environmental gradient in substrate color, display conver- gent adaptation of blanched coloration on the gypsum dunes of White Sands National Monument. I investigate the role of gene flow in modulating phenotypic response to selection by quantifying color variation and genetic variation across the ecotone. I find species differences in degree of background matching and in genetic con- nectivity of populations across the ecotone. Differences among spe- cies in phenotypic response to selection scale precisely to levels of genetic isolation. Species with higher levels of gene flow across the ecotone exhibit less dramatic responses to selection. Results also reveal a strong signal of ecologically mediated divergence for White Sands lizards. For all species, phenotypic variation is better explained by habitat similarity than genetic similarity. Convergent evolution of blanched coloration at White Sands clearly reflects the action of strong divergent selection; however, adaptive response appears to be modulated by gene flow and demographic history and can be pre- dicted by divergence-with-gene-flow models.
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) during gestation and lactation does not alter sow performance or body weight gain and adiposity in progeny

The objective of this study was to determine the long-term effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in pigs exposed to CLA during fetal and neonatal growth. Sows were fed a diet with 0.83% soy oil or 0.83% CLA-60 containing 60% active CLA isomers from either d 40 (group 1; CON n = 8, CLA n = 6) or d 75 (group 2; CON n = 8, CLA n = 8) of gestation through weaning on d 28. Within group 1, one male and one female piglet per litter (CON n = 6, CLA n = 5) were sacrificed within 24 hours of birth (d 0) and body weights recorded. Semitendinosus muscle, subcutaneous adi- pose tissue and organs, including heart, liver, lung, kidney, brain were weighed and tissue samples were frozen. Two average weight barrows and two gilts per litter were weaned and fed standard diets without added CLA until market weight. CLA did not alter sow's feed intake during gestation or lactation, body weight or backfat thickness, and litter size and weight at birth (P > 0.05). CLA decreased newborn pig heart, but not backfat or semitendinosus muscle weights relative to their body weights (d 0). CLA decreased pre-weaning weight in selected piglets but this was not maintained post-weaning. CLA decreased total milk fat by 17% (P < 0.01) and resulted in an increase in the relative amount of saturated fatty acids and a decrease in the relative amount of unsaturated fatty acids in milk on d 21 of lactation (P < 0.05). Decreases in growth rates until d 14 may be due to decreased fat in sow's milk since growth rate and body weight of selected progeny did not differ post-weaning. Serum from newborn CLA pigs suppressed relative preadipocyte number and did not change lipid filling in stromal-vascular cell cultures. The response to this serum was greater in females than in males (PDiet = 0.04; PDiet × Gender = 0.04). Thus, there do not seem to be any long-term effects on growth and body composition of market weight pigs given 0.5% CLA through weaning that would be beneficial in a production scheme. conjugated linoleic acid / gestation / lactation / porcine / adipose
Fleet level anomaly detection of aviation safety data

For the purposes of this paper, the National Airspace System (NAS) encompasses the operations of all aircraft which are subject to air traffic control procedures. The NAS is a highly complex dynamic system that is sensitive to aeronautical decision-making and risk management skills. In order to ensure a healthy system with safe flights a systematic approach to anomaly detection is very important when evaluating a given set of circumstances and for determination of the best possible course of action. Given the fact that the NAS is a vast and loosely integrated network of systems, it requires improved safety assurance capabilities to maintain an extremely low accident rate under increasingly dense operating conditions. Data mining based tools and techniques are required to support and aid operators' (such as pilots, management, or policy makers) overall decision-making capacity. Within the NAS, the ability to analyze fleetwide aircraft data autonomously is still considered a significantly challenging task. For our purposes a fleet is defined as a group of aircraft sharing generally compatible parameter lists. Here, in this effort, we aim at developing a system level analysis scheme. In this paper we address the capability for detection of fleetwide anomalies as they occur, which itself is an important initiative toward the safety of the real-world flight operations. The flight data recorders archive millions of data points with valuable information on flights everyday. The operational parameters consist of both continuous and discrete (binary & categorical) data from several critical subsystems and numerous complex procedures. In this paper, we discuss a system level anomaly detection approach based on the theory of kernel learning to detect potential safety anomalies in a very large data base of commercial aircraft. We also demonstrate that the proposed approach uncovers some operationally significant events due to environmental, mechanical, and human factors issues in high dimensional, multivariate Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) data. We present the results of our detection algorithms on real FOQA data from a regional carrier.
Reovirus reverse genetics: Incorporation of the CAT gene into the reovirus genome.

We have modified the infectious reovirus RNA system so as to generate a reovirus reverse genetics system. The system consists of (i) the plus strands of nine wild-type reovirus genome segments; (ii) transcripts of the genetically modified cDNA form of the tenth genome segment; and (iii) a cell line transformed so as to express the protein normally encoded by the tenth genome segment. In the work described here, we have generated a serotype 3 reovirus into the S2 double-stranded RNA genome segment of which the CAT gene has been cloned. The virus is stable, replicates in cells that have been transformed (so as to express the S2 gene product, protein σ2), and expresses high levels of CAT activity. This technology can be extended to members of the orbivirus and rotavirus genera. This technology provides a powerful system for basic studies of double-stranded RNA virus replication; a nonpathogenic viral vector that replicates to high titers and could be used for clinical applications; and a system for providing nonselectable viral variants (the result of mutations, insertions, and deletions) that could be valuable for the construction of viral vaccine strains against human and animal pathogens.
SPIT Detection and Prevention Method Based on Signal Analysis

In order to resolve the SPIT (spam over Internet telephony) risk in the ALL-IP convergence network, a multilayered detection and prevention method is proposed in this paper. This method firstly analyzes the unique characteristics of SPIT as well as the features of various SPIT attacks to enhance the pertinence of detection and prevention. Afterwards, the detection and prevention are divided into several layers, signal monitoring algorithm monitors the SPIT-related atom information, statistic and analysis algorithm analyzes the atom information to gain the more meaningful alert, correlation algorithm associates the alert to identify the behavior trace and reconstruct the attack scenario. Experiment and analysis results show that the efficiency and performance of the method satisfies the requirement of SPIT detection and prevention.
A Three-Dimensional Finite-Difference Time-Domain Scheme Based on a Transversely Extended-Curl Operator

In this paper, a three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) scheme is presented with improved isotropy characteristics and higher Courant number than the standard Yee scheme. The basic idea is to transversely extend the curl operator in order to improve the transverse Laplacian representation of the curl-curl operator. A stability analysis is performed, and the dispersion characteristics of the proposed scheme are investigated. It is shown that the latter is significantly more isotropic than the regular FDTD scheme. Additionally, it is proved that under certain conditions a unity Courant number can be achieved, and the resulting scheme is characterized by dispersion characteristics complementary to those of the regular FDTD scheme. Numerical simulations are performed that validate the theoretically derived results
Do individual plant species show predictable responses to nitrogen addition across multiple experiments

A number of experiments have addressed how increases in nitrogen availability increase the productivity and decrease the diversity of plant communities. We lack, however, a rigorous mechanistic understanding of how changes in abundance of particular species combine to produce changes in community productivity and diversity. Single experiments cannot provide insight into this issue because each species occurs only once per experiment, and each experiment is conducted in only one location; thus, it is impossible from single experiments to determine whether responses of particular species are consistent across environments or dependent on the particular environmental context in which the experiment was conducted. To address this issue, we assembled a dataset of 20 herbaceous species that were each represented in at least 6 different fertilization experiments and tested whether responses were general across experiments. Of the 20 species, one consistently increased in relative abundance and five consistently decreased across replicate experiments. A partially-overlapping group of 8 species displayed responses to nitrogen that varied predictably among experiments as a function of geographic location, neighboring species, or a handful of other community characteristics (ANPP, precipitation, species richness, relative abundance of focal species in control plots, and community composition). Thus, despite modest replication and a limited number of predictor variables, we were able to identify consistent patterns in response of 10 out of 20 species across multiple experiments. We conclude that the responses of individual species to nitrogen addition are often predictable, but that in most cases these responses are functions of the abiotic or biotic environment. Thus, a rigorous understanding of how plant species respond to nitrogen addition will have to consider not only the traits of individual plant species, but also aspects of the communities in which those plants live.
Food and agricultural organization of the United Nations : Technical report

(1996). Food and agricultural organization of the United Nations: Technical report. Ecology of Food and Nutrition: Vol. 35, No. 2, pp. 105-110.
Approach to esophageal disease in AIDS: A primer for the endoscopist

Despite the major impact of highly active antiretroviral therapy on reducing AIDS-related complications, gastrointestinal disorders will remain a challenge for endoscopists. The endoscopic appearance of these esophageal disorders is well described. When coupled with experienced histopathologic support and clinical follow-up, endoscopy with biopsy will yield the diagnosis in essentially all cases. The efficacy of therapy underscores the importance of a prompt and accurate diagnosis. Endoscopists will remain essential for the diagnosis of esophageal disorders in AIDS
Finite Sets and an Infinite Set

We have proved that sets are finite, but we have not yet shown rigorously that a set is infinite. It is not as easy as you might think to do so, nor do we have an exact notion of what it means for a finite set “to have n elements.” Our proof of the former and the definition of the latter will depend on a principle known as the pigeonhole principle. The pigeonhole principle is something that is familiar to all of us. As a very simple example of this, recall a childhood birthday party in which you played musical chairs. In case you weren’t invited to any parties, we’ll remind you of the rules behind the game. Let’s say there were 10 children at the party. Someone, say the child’s father, would set up 9 chairs in a row. Someone else, say the child’s mother, would play a song on the piano stopping unexpectedly at some point. When the music ended, the 10 children would scramble for the 9 seats. If everyone sat down, two people would sit in the same chair. This game is our first example of the pigeonhole principle. Now we turn to a more elaborate one.
Joel Robbins. Becoming Sinners: Christianity and Moral Torment in a Papua New Guinea Society . Berkeley, Los Angeles, and London: University of California Press, 2004 (xxvii and 383 pp., 10 photos, 2 maps)

A string of important articles over the years has established Joel Robbins at the forefront of the anthropological study of Christianity. Although his long awaited book draws on these earlier publications, it presents a powerful and sustained argument that is far greater than the sum of its parts. It is hard to think of another recent work in the anthropology of Christianity, or even of religion more generally, that displays such a command of local knowledge in tandem with so broad and secure a mastery both of social theory and the history of religious doctrine. Moreover, counter to the particularistic tendency of some cultural anthropology today, this book forthrightly lays the groundwork for further comparative research. It is also an exemplary piece of ethnographic and historical writing. Although the volume is long and well documented, every detail works for the analysis. Robbins writes in language so clear, measured, and intellectually sober that those whose palates have become accustomed to the harsher spices and artificial flavorings so often served up in the name of cultural theory may miss its significance. They should not: this is a monumental book with which all subsequent writers on religious conversion, culture theory, social transformation, and globalization should have to contend.
Becoming normal: Certification as a stage in exiting from crime

Certification is the final stage in exiting from a career in crime. This paper presents the major elements in the process of certification as revealed by an analysis of a set of life‐history interviews. This look at the process of certification uncovers that, like deviance, conventionality is a social phenomenon constructing from both social action and societal reaction.
Applications of percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy in transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt and portal vein thrombosis.

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is an uncommon cause for presinusoidal portal hypertension. PVT can be caused by one of three broad mechanisms: (1) spontaneous thrombosis when thrombosis develops in the absence of mechanical obstruction, usually in the presence of inherited or acquired hypercoagulable states; (2) intrinsic mechanical obstruction because of vascular injury and scarring or invasion by an intrahepatic or adjacent tumor; or (3) extrinsic constriction by adjacent tumor, lymphadenopathy or inflammatory process. Usually, several combined factors are necessary to result in PVT. The consequences of portal vein thrombosis are mostly related to the extension of the clot within the vein. Gastrointestinal bleeding from gastroesophageal varices is the most frequent presentation. Noninvasive imaging techniques are currently used for the screening of patients and the initial diagnosis of PVT. The invasive techniques are reserved for cases when noninvasive techniques are inconclusive, before percutaneous interventional treatment, or in preoperative assessment of patients who are candidates for surgery. Recanalization of the portal vein with anticoagulation alone may not be consistent or appropriate in highly symptomatic patients. Catheterization of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is helpful for diagnosis as well as for therapy by allowing the intra-arterial infusion of thrombolytic drugs in the same setting. Direct transhepatic portography allows precise determination of the degree of stenosis and extension within the portal vein, as well as pressure measurements. Thrombotic occlusions of the portal, mesenteric, and splenic veins can be managed by mechanical thrombectomy (MT) or pharmacologic thrombolysis. Underlying occlusions because of organized or refractory thrombus or fixed venous stenosis are best corrected by balloon angioplasty and stent placement. Access into the portal venous system can also be established through creating a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). Creating a TIPS is also important in the setting of PVT associated with cirrhosis to decompress portal hypertension and improve portal venous flow. PVT involving the portal, splenic, and/or mesenteric veins can also complicate a preexisting TIPS in which case the shunt can be readily used as therapy access. Several techniques may be used to recanalize the shunt and portal venous system, including thrombolytic therapy, balloon angioplasty/embolectomy, suction embolectomy, basket extraction of clots, and mechanical thrombectomy with a variety of devices. Advantages of MT include the potential to rapidly remove thrombus without the need for prolonged thrombolytic infusions, and reducing the potential life-threatening complications of thrombolytic therapy. Possible drawbacks include the risk of intimal or vascular trauma to the portal vein, which may promote recurrent thrombosis.
Distinct Mg2+-dependent Steps Rate Limit Opening and Closing of a Single CFTR Cl− Channel

The roles played by ATP binding and hydrolysis in the complex mechanisms that open and close cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) Cl− channels remain controversial. In this work, the contributions made by ATP and Mg2+ ions to the gating of phosphorylated cardiac CFTR channels were evaluated separately by measuring the rates of opening and closing of single channels in excised patches exposed to solutions in which [ATP] and [Mg2+] were varied independently. Channel opening was found to be rate-limited not by the binding of ATP alone, but by a Mg2+-dependent step that followed binding of both ATP and Mg2+. Once a channel had opened, sudden withdrawal of all Mg2+ and ATP could prevent it from closing for tens of seconds. But subsequent exposure of such an open channel to Mg2+ ions alone could close it, and the closing rate increased with [Mg2+] over the micromolar range (half maximal at ∼50 μM [Mg2+]). A simple interpretation is that channel closing is stoichiometrically coupled to hydrolysis of an ATP molecule that remains tightly associated with the open CFTR channel despite continuous washing. If correct, that ATP molecule appears able to reside for over a minute in the catalytic site that controls channel closing, implying that the site must entrap, or have an intrinsically high apparent affinity for, ATP, even without a Mg2+ ion. Such stabilization of the open-channel conformation of CFTR by tight binding, or occlusion, of an ATP molecule echoes the stabilization of the active conformation of a G protein by GTP.
Le principe de continuité et la théorie des quanta

L’ancienne theorie des quanta a eu pour origine l’effort de Max Planck pour surmonter le paradoxe de discontinuite inherent au theoreme classique de l’equipartition de l’energie. La theorie (luantique moderne peut etre deduite d’un postulat de continuite pour l’entropie permettant de tourner le paradoxe de discontinuite de Gibbs. La superposition des amplitudes de probabilites est la consequence naturelle d’un postulat relatif a la loi de correlation existant entre les diverses probabilites, postulat suivant lequel cette loi de correlation est generale, ne favorise aucun etat particulier et, par consequent, est symetrique par rapport a tous les etats.
Emerging treatments in Castleman disease – a critical appraisal of siltuximab

Castleman disease (CD) is a rare, heterogeneous lymphoproliferative disorder for which no standard of care currently exists. Evidence that the pathophysiology of CD is fueled by excessive interleukin-6 (IL-6) has led to considerable interest in therapeutic targeting of this cytokine. Siltuximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody to IL-6, has thus emerged as a promising treatment option in a disease lacking efficacious therapy. Here, we review the findings of recent studies evaluating single-agent siltuximab treatment in CD, including the first-ever randomized clinical trial in this disease. Although much more work is needed to establish a standardized treatment approach, siltuximab appears to be a safe and effective treatment for patients with newly diagnosed and previously treated CD.