cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The activation of membrane targeted CaMK-II in the zebrafish Kupffer's vesicle is required for left-right asymmetry

Intracellular calcium ion (Ca(2+)) elevation on the left side of the mouse embryonic node or zebrafish Kupffer's vesicle (KV) is the earliest asymmetric molecular event that is functionally linked to lateral organ placement in these species. In this study, Ca(2+)/CaM-dependent protein kinase (CaMK-II) is identified as a necessary target of this Ca(2+) elevation in zebrafish embryos. CaMK-II is transiently activated in approximately four interconnected cells along the anterior left wall of the KV between the six- and 12-somite stages, which is coincident with known left-sided Ca(2+) elevations. Within these cells, activated CaMK-II is observed at the surface and in clusters, which appear at the base of some KV cilia. Although seven genes encode catalytically active CaMK-II in early zebrafish embryos, one of these genes also encodes a truncated inactive variant (alphaKAP) that can hetero-oligomerize with and target active enzyme to membranes. alphaKAP, beta2 CaMK-II and gamma1 CaMK-II antisense morpholino oligonucleotides, as well as KV-targeted dominant negative CaMK-II, randomize organ laterality and southpaw (spaw) expression in lateral plate mesoderm (LPM). Left-sided CaMK-II activation was most dependent on an intact KV, the PKD2 Ca(2+) channel and gamma1 CaMK-II; however, alphaKAP, beta2 CaMK-II and the RyR3 ryanodine receptor were also necessary for full CaMK-II activation. This is the first report to identify a direct Ca(2+)-sensitive target in left-right asymmetry and supports a model in which membrane targeted CaMK-II hetero-oligomers in nodal cells transduce the left-sided PKD2-dependent Ca(2+) signals to the LPM.
PROBABILITY AND UTILITY ASSUMPTIONS UNDERLYING USE OF THE STRONG VOCATIONAL INTEREST BLANK

Decision implications of Strong's assumption of equal base rates for his menin-gcncral (MIG) and individual occupational groups are explored. Using the Strong Vocational Interest Blank (SVIB) Physician's scale as an example, it is demonstrated that when realistic base rates are assumed, total decision error rate using the SVIB—even when optimal cutting scores are employed— is at best about equal to that resulting from prediction using base rates alone. It is shown that use of the SVIB as recommended by Strong implicitly assumes that false negative errors are much more serious than are false positives. Finally, it is shown that when "reasonable" utility or gain matrices are assumed, use of the SVIB can reduce total error rate despite the limitations imposed by low occupational base rates, and that this effect is greater when statistically optimal cutting scores, rather than those recommended by Strong, are used. In many practical decision-making tasks faced by psychologists , scores on some continuous test or variable are used to make dichotomous decisions. In a study that is now a classic, Meehl and Rosen (1955) demonstrated that cutting scores used in such decisions must take into account population base rates, that is, the relative frequency of the category or group of interest. They showed that a device which usefully reduces decision or classificatio n errors when the base rate of the dichotomous phenomenon of interest (e.g., schizophrenic versus normal or shoplifter versus honest shopper) is near .50 may be useless—or may even lead to increased errors—when the base rate is very high or very low. They presented conditions that must be met for the test to achieve a greater degree of accuracy than would result from use of the base rates alone. Dawes (1962) later provided a more easily understood analysis in terms of conditional probabilities. Rorer, Hoffman, LaForge, and Hsieh (1966) presented an analytic (as opposed to empirical) solution to the determination of optimal cutting scores, and Rorer, Hoffman, and Hsieh (1964) provided extensive tables of optimum cutting scores for groups differing both in
Dynamic job shop scheduling in a tool shared environment

Very little empirical research has been conducted on a flexible manufacturing system in relation to its performances with tool movement approach, specifically a dynamic job shop in a tool shared environment. This study evaluated job loading rules and tool selection policies in a tool shared environment with regard to job shop performance measures. This research also examined the relationship between job loading rules and tool selection policies when tool movement approach was employed.
Vinca alkaloids XXXIV. Preparation of des-Na-methyl-vindoline by microbiological conversion of vindoline, a major alkaloid from Vinca roseaL†

The conversion of vindoline (II) using S. albogriseolus led to the isolation of several compounds including des-Na-methyl vindoline (III) in 8–10% yield.
High-power narrow-linewidth large mode area photonic bandgap fiber amplifier

Ytterbium-doped large mode area all-solid photonic bandgap fiber amplifiers were used to demonstrate <400 W of output power at 1064 nm. In an initial set of experiments, a fiber with a core diameter of ~50 μm, and a calculated effective area of 1450 μm 2 in a straight fiber, was used to generate approximately 600 W. In this case, the input seed was modulated using a sinusoidal format at a frequency of 400 MHz. The output, however, was multimode as the fiber design did not allow for single-mode operation at this wavelength. A second fiber was then fabricated to operate predominantly in single mode at 1064 nm by having the seed closer to the short wavelength edge of the bandgap. This fiber was used to demonstrate 400 W of single-frequency output with excellent beam quality. As the signal power exceeded 450 W, there was significant degradation in the beam quality due to the modal instability. Nevertheless, to the best of our knowledge, the power scaling results obtained in this work far exceed results from prior state of the art all-solid photonic bandgap fiber lasers.
Antiviral activity and toxicity of fialuridine in the woodchuck model of hepatitis B virus infection.

Woodchucks were used to study the antiviral activity and toxicity of fialuridine (FIAU; 1,-2′deoxy-2′fluoro-1-β-d-arabinofuranosyl-5-iodo-uracil). In an initial experiment, groups of six chronic woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) carrier woodchucks received daily doses of FIAU by intraperitoneal injection for 4 weeks. At 0.3 mg/kg/d, the antiviral effect was equivocal, but at 1.5 mg/kg/d, FIAU had significant antiviral activity. No evidence of drug toxicity was observed during the 4-week period of treatment or during posttreatment follow-up. In a second experiment, groups of nine WHV carriers or uninfected woodchucks were given 1.5 mg/kg/d of FIAU orally for 12 weeks, and the results compared with placebo-treated controls. After 4 weeks, the serum WHV-DNA concentration in the FIAU-treated carrier group was two to three logs lower than that in the placebo-treated group. After 12 weeks of FIAU treatment, serum WHV DNA was not detectable by conventional dot-blot analysis, hepatic WHV-DNA replicative intermediates (RI) had decreased 100-fold, and hepatic expression of WHV core antigen was remarkably decreased. No evidence of toxicity was observed after 4 weeks, but, after 6 to 7 weeks, food intake decreased and, after 8 weeks, the mean body weights of woodchucks treated with FIAU were significantly lower than controls. Anorexia, weight loss, muscle wasting, and lethargy became progressively severe, and all FIAU-treated woodchucks died or were euthanized 78 to 111 days after treatment began. Hepatic insufficiency (hyperbilirubinemia, decreased serum fibrinogen, elevated prothrombin time), lactic acidosis, and hepatic steatosis were characteristic findings in the final stages of FIAU toxicity in woodchucks. The syndrome of delayed toxicity in woodchucks was similar to that observed previously in humans treated with FIAU, suggesting that the woodchuck should be valuable in future investigations of the molecular mechanisms of FIAU toxicity in vivo and for preclinical toxicological evaluation of other nucleoside analogs before use in patients.
Abnormal T cell signal transduction in systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an acute and chronic autoimmune disease of indeterminate etiology characterized by protean clinical symptoms and signs. Although this syndrome can occur in children or the elderly (1), SLE predominantly affects women in their childbearing years. Current information suggests that a complex interaction between environmental agents and disease susceptibility genes may predispose to SLE. Although many of these genes have not yet been identified, it is currently believed that the expression of such genes may predispose to aberrant cellular and humoral immune responses. Altered immune responses to autoantigens then result in pathologic autoantibody production, formation and deposition of antigen– antibody complexes, and propagation of a chronic inflammatory process that destroys organ parenchyma and results in end-stage organ failure, such as end-stage renal disease (2). At the cellular level, T lymphocytes mediate this altered immune response in SLE. Indeed, compared with normal controls in whom a balance of T cell functions exists (Figure 1A), diverse T cell dysfunctions result in an imbalance in the functions of T cell subsets in SLE (3–5) (Table 1 and Figure 1B). A pan–T cell dysfunction appears to exist that is characterized by exaggerated CD4 and diminished CD8 T cell activities. Moreover, natural killer (NK) cell functions are also defective (6). Due to the loss of effective CD8 T and NK cell feedback on B cells (7), forbidden B cell clones produce autoantibodies directed against an array of intraand extracellular autoantigens. Inquiries into the mechanism(s) causing these T cell dysfunctions have led to the identification of several new defects of signal transduction and have begun to reveal their molecular basis. It is timely, therefore, to review our progress during the 6 years since this subject was previously reviewed (8) to assess how abnormal signaling events contribute to our understanding of T cell dysfunctions in SLE. Second, we address the impact these signaling defects are likely to have on regulation and expression of IL2, a representative T cell–specific gene. Third, we summarize new signaling abnormalities that contribute to T cell apoptosis and necrosis, impaired protein translation, and altered DNA methylation. Fourth, we highlight initial genetic approaches in SLE T cells designed to bypass and to reconstitute a signaling defect and its effect on interleukin-2 (IL-2) production. Finally, we identify likely directions of future research that are anticipated to yield new information and novel insights into T cell effector dysfunctions in SLE.
Crystallization in Zeolite A Studied by Atomic Force Microscopy

Crystal growth in zeolite A has been studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM), which is a very powerful technique for imaging nanoscale surface features. However, imaging microcrystallites is far f...
Seller‐Financing of Homes: A Consumer Economic Perspective

In recent years, the proportion of home purchases financed by lending institutions has declined and the use of alternative financing methods has increased. This paper examines the costs, risks and benefits associated with seller-financing, a popular alternative financing method. The topic is discussed from the perspectives of the buyer and the seller. An empirical analysis is also conducted of condominium sales in Hawaii to gauge the impact of seller-financing upon the housing market as well as its economic effects upon buyers and sellers. Overall, it is concluded that buyers are the primary beneficiaries of seller-financing.
Generalizability of Repetitive Thought: Examining Stability in Thought Content and Process

Trait conceptualizations of repetitive thought assume that both the degree and the quality of thoughts are stable over time. In order to test this assumption, the generalizability of thought valence (positive vs. negative), purpose (searching vs. solving), and thought duration were tested using repetitive thought descriptions generated across time in a sample of first-year law students (N = 73) and a sample of dementia caregivers and matched controls (N = 57). Based on objective ratings of these descriptions, there was mixed evidence for stable individual differences with regard to valence, purpose, and duration, depending on the sample and the topic of the thoughts. Variance estimates ranged from 25 to 70% for valence, 7–24% for purpose, and 0–8% for thought duration. The results indicate that repetitive thought qualities change over time and that RT patterns may be more stable in older and less stressed samples.
EHD-Enhanced Drying With Auxiliary Heating From Below

The present study investigates the possible drying enhancement provided by auxiliary heating to the sample in addition to the application of electric field. The electric field is produced by charging a needle electrode with direct current at a sufficiently high voltage. The auxiliary heating is provided through a thermofoil heater attached to the bottom plate of the sample container. The samples used are 3 mm and 6 mm glass beads saturated with water. Both positive and negative corona discharges have been employed. Two sets of experiments have been conducted, with and without cross-flow, at 1 kV increment from the corona threshold voltage until the occurrence of sparkover. For each case, a companion experiment was carried out simultaneously under the same ambient conditions but without the application of electric field or auxiliary heating. The result of which is used as a basis in the evaluation of drying enhancement using electric field (with or without crossflow). The drying enhancement is evaluated as a function of the governing electric field parameters. In addition, the performance of EHD drying is compared with the conventional drying techniques.
A method for evaluation of subsystem alternate designs

The current trend in aerospace business is to provide cost-effective programs and designs that are optimized to provide the most for the dollar but not overdesigned beyond the necessary requirements. Too many dollars can be spent on achieving results far above those required to meet the function for which the design is intended. A systematic, quantitative method is required for deciding how much should be spent in a design effort to obtain better performance and reliability. This paper is an explanation of one method of combining these factors and an example of how it was applied to a project in evaluating alternate potential designs and subsystems.
Drugs as tools for research in neuropsychobiology: a historical perspective.

Knowledge in neuropsychobiology continues to benefit from the use of drugs as ‘tools’ to alter neurochemical events as a means of studying interactions between the events and behaviour. Before drugs could play such a role, concepts about basic properties of living organism had to be refined. Techniques had to be invented for investigating the kinetics by which drugs reach their sites of action within the body and the dynamics of their effects once they have occupied their receptors, behaviour being one category of such effects. The present discussion examines these developments in historical perspective, focusing upon influences they have in advancing our understanding of neurochemical substrates of behaviour.
Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography in the Evaluation of Liver Transplant Candidates.

The feasibility, safety, and value of coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) in evaluating orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) candidates are unknown. We studied a cohort of consecutive OLT...
Simulation of Flow and Structural Dynamics in Human Upper Airways

Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Hypo Apnea Syndrome (OSAHS) is a respiratory disorder characterized by repeated episodes of partial or complete airway obstruction. OSAHS is also associated with decreased quality of life, decreased cardiovascular health, day-time sleepiness, and increased transportation accidents. Its high prevalence with as much as 4% of American population suffering from OSAHS also makes it an important health care issue[1]. Existing surgical treatments suffer from a moderate to high successful failure rates. Broader research on this respiratory disorder for a better understanding of the pathophysiology of human upper airway, to develop better diagnostic methods and treatment modalities is very much needed.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Hard Times and Harder Choices: An Instructional Case Focusing on Ethical Responsibilities of CPAs in Public Practice

CPAs in public practice often find themselves facing challenging, if not troubling, ethical dilemmas. In this case, you have an opportunity to “step into the shoes” of Thomas Forehand, the owner of a small accounting firm. After spending several years working in a major metropolitan area, Forehand and his wife decided that they wanted a different lifestyle for themselves and their children. Unfortunately, a nationwide recession has cost Forehand many of his clients and forced him to lay off two of his six employees. Desperate for new clients, Forehand must decide whether to accept an unusual but lucrative engagement proposed by a new client who suddenly appeared in his office one day. Eventually, the client explains the true nature of the engagement. At this point, Forehand must decide what to do. In this case, you will play the role of Forehand and decide what you would have done had you been in his shoes.
Optimal control of manifold filling during VDE mode transitions

During mode transitions in advanced engines and powertrains, actuators (electronic throttle, fuel, spark timing, variable valve timing, etc.) need to be optimally coordinated to obtain the correct state for the next mode. Specific examples of mode changes include cylinder deactivation/reactivation transitions in variable displacement engines, combustion mode transitions in HCCI and DISI engines and clutch transitions between locked and unlocked states in dual clutch transmissions. Mode transitions lead naturally to optimal control problems that can be analyzed using the maximum principle and solved numerically. From this perspective, the paper considers in detail one of the simplest problems of its kind (which to the authors' knowledge has not been treated), the optimal control of intake manifold filling using the electronic throttle. This problem is relevant to variable displacement engines and to the fuel economy that these engines can achieve. The analysis of minimum time and Nonlinear Quadratic (NLQ) optimal control problems is presented for the nonlinear manifold filling dynamics based on the maximum principle and simulated optimal trajectories are reported. Then a recently proposed Iterative Model and Trajectory Refinement (IMTR) strategy for solving trajectory optimization problems is validated using the intake manifold pressure filling as a case study. Specifically, we demonstrate the convergence of IMTR to trajectories that are close enough to the trajectories obtained from the maximum principle.
Phosphorylation by glycogen synthase kinase-3 controls c-myc proteolysis and subnuclear localization.

The c-Myc protein is a transcription factor that is a central regulator of cell growth and proliferation. Thr-58 is a major phosphorylation site in c-Myc and is a mutational hotspot in Burkitt's and other aggressive human lymphomas, indicating that Thr-58 phosphorylation restricts the oncogenic potential of c-Myc. Mutation of Thr-58 is also associated with increased c-Myc protein stability. Here we show that inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) activity with lithium increases c-Myc stability and inhibits phosphorylation of c-Myc specifically at Thr-58 in vivo. Conversely, overexpression of GSK-3α or GSK-3β enhances Thr-58 phosphorylation and ubiquitination of c-Myc. Together, these observations suggest that phosphorylation of Thr-58 mediated by GSK-3 facilitates c-Myc rapid proteolysis by the ubiquitin pathway. Furthermore, we demonstrate that GSK-3 binds c-Myc in vivo and in vitro and that GSK-3 colocalizes with c-Myc in the nucleus, strongly arguing that GSK-3 is the c-Myc Thr-58 kinase. We found that c-MycS, which lacks the N-terminal 100 amino acids of c-Myc, is unable to bind GSK-3; however, mutation of Ser-62, the priming phosphorylation site necessary for Thr-58 phosphorylation, does not disrupt GSK-3 binding. Finally, we show that Thr-58 phosphorylation alters the subnuclear localization of c-Myc, enhancing its localization to discrete nuclear bodies together with GSK-3.
Patient perspectives on opt-out HIV screening in a Guyanese emergency department.

Abstract In 2007, the WHO recommended that healthcare providers in areas of a generalised HIV epidemic perform HIV testing on all adults and adolescents presenting for healthcare. Studies regarding patient acceptability of opt-out testing, however, have reported wide variation in acceptance rates. This study examines patient-reported acceptability of such testing at the emergency department (ED) of Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, the largest public hospital in Guyana. In June 2010, a convenience sample of 343 non-critical adult patients who presented to the ED were interviewed regarding potential acceptance of opt-out HIV testing, with 75.5% (95% CI 70.5–80.0%) stating they would accept testing should it be implemented in the ED. Of 12 patient characteristics, 3 had significant differences in acceptance rates on multivariate analysis: age; gender; and previous HIV testing. In this study, potential reasons for declining testing were also examined. The highest percentage of patient agreement was with the statements ‘I have had an HIV test recently enough’ (84%, 95% CI 74.0–91.4%) and ‘I am not at risk for HIV/AIDS’ (83%, 95% CI 73.0–90.4%). The results of this study indicate that the majority of patients in this setting would accept opt-out HIV testing, although some still had concerns regarding testing. Opt-out testing in the ED has the potential to facilitate national goals for increased testing and diagnosis.
Possible role of adenosine in macula densa control of glomerular hemodynamics.

Possible role of adenosine in macula densa control of glomerular hemodynamics. Background The macula densa (MD), a plaque of specialized tubular epithelial cells, senses changes in tubular NaCl concentration and sends a signal(s) that controls the resistance of the glomerular afferent arteriole (Af-Art). This mechanism, called tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF), is thought to be important in the homeostasis of body fluids and electrolytes. Our aim was to determine the range of NaCl concentrations in tubular fluid at the MD that would elicit the Af-Art response. In addition, we examined the possible involvement of adenosine in transmitting the signal from the MD to the Af-Art. Methods Rabbit Af-Arts and attached MD were simultaneously microperfused in vitro, keeping pressure in the Af-Art at 60mm Hg. Results Increasing the Na + /Cl - concentration of the MD perfusate from 26/7 to 41/22 mEq/L decreased the luminal diameter of the terminal Af-Art segment by 10 ± 4% ( N = 9; P -6 mol/L), a specific adenosine A 1 receptor antagonist, was added to both Af-Art perfusate and bath, Af-Art constriction was completely abolished. The maximum response was 20 ± 3% before FK838 and 0.6 ± 1% afterward ( N = 12). Adding adenosine at 10 -8 mol/L to both bath and perfusate significantly augmented Af-Art constriction induced by increased NaCl at the MD ( P -8 to 10 -6 mol/L adenosine to the MD perfusate had no effect regardless of the NaCl concentration at the MD. Conclusions These results demonstrate that MD control of Af-Art resistance is induced by relatively low NaCl concentrations at the MD, and that activation of the adenosine A 1 receptor in the vascular and interstitial space (but not the tubular lumen) may be essential for signal transmission from the MD to the Af-Art.
Using an operand file to save energy and to decouple commit resources

The register file of a modern superscalar processor is a critical component of the processor pipeline that can have a large impact on processor performance. Large register files provide larger windows of speculation to the processor and allow greater levels of instruction-level parallelism. However, the access time and energy consumption of these structures can grow quite large when these structures increase in size, especially considering the number of ports required. The paper proposes an architecture that moves the large register file needed to fully exploit greater levels of instruction level parallelism off the schedule to the execute path of the processor. This is accomplished by decoupling the instruction window (the amount of instruction state maintained in the reorder buffer and register file) from the scheduling window (the working set of registers required by the instruction scheduler and execution core). The state of the scheduling window is maintained by an operand file and a speculative logical register file. The operand file stores only the set of input registers to be consumed by instructions in the issue queue, and provides low-latency and energy efficient storage for the working set of registers. This design can reduce the energy dissipation by a factor of 6.5 on average over a traditional large register file, and allows the instruction window to be scaled independently of the register file structures on the schedule to execute path.
Detection of amyloid plaques by radioligands for Aβ40 and Aβ42

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is linked to increased brain deposition of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides in senile plaques (SPs), and recent therapeutic efforts have focused on inhibiting the production or enhancing the clearance of Aβ in brain. However, it has not been possible to measure the burden of SPs or assess the effect of potential therapies on brain Aβ levels in patients. Toward that end, we have developed a novel radioligand, [125I]TZDM, which binds Aβ fibrils with high affinity, crosses the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and labels amyloid plaques in vivo. Compared to a styrylbenzene probe, [125I]IMSB, [125I]TZDM showed a 10-fold greater brain penetration and labeled plaques with higher sensitivity for in vivo imaging. However, this ligand also labels white matter, which contributes to undesirable high background regions of the brain. Interestingly, parallel to their differential binding characteristics onto fibrils composed of 40 (Aβ40)- or 42 (Aβ42)-amino-acid-long forms of Aβ peptides, these radioligands displayed differential labeling of SPs in AD brain sections under our experimental conditions. It was observed that [125I]IMSB labeled SPs containing Aβ40, amyloid angiopathy (AA), and neurofibrillary tangles, whereas [125I]TZDM detected only SPs and Aβ42-positive AA. Since increased production and deposition of Aβ42 relative to Aβ40 may be crucial for the generation of SPs, [125I]TZDM and related derivatives may be more attractive probes for in vivo plaque labeling. Further structural modifications of TZDM to lower the background labeling will be needed to optimize the plaque-labeling property.
The effect of calmodulin antagonists on hyperthermic cell killing and the development of thermotolerance.

The role of calmodulin (CaM) in hyperthermic cell killing, and the development of thermotolerance in rat 13762NF mammary adenocarcinoma cells, was investigated by using the CaM antagonists W-7 [N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-l-naphthalene sulphon-amide] and W-13 [iV-(4-aminobutyl)-2-chloro-naphthalenesulphonamide] and their less active analogues W-5 [N-(6-aminohexyl)-l-naphthalenesulphonamide] and W-12 [N-(4-aminobutyl)-2-naphthalenesulphonamide]. The CaM antagonists W-7 and W-13 potentiated 43 °C cell killing (and the less active analogues did not) at a concentration compatible with CaM inhibition, thus hyperthermic perturbation of CaM-regulated processes may contribute to cellular lethality. The potentiation of hyperthermic killing by antagonists appeared to be temperature-dependent, sensitizing much more effectively to 43 °C than to 42°C killing. The effect may be related to differing primary mechanisms of hyperthermic killing activated at the two temperatures, or simply to differences in incorporation or l...
Effect of high-pressure hot water washing treatment on fruit quality, insects, and disease in apples and pears: Part IV: Use of silicone-based materials and mechanical methods to eliminate surface arthropod eggs

The presence of surface arthropods on commercially processed apples and pears poses a problem when these fruits are exported to countries where there are either limits on the numbers of eggs or a total quarantine restriction against these pests. Removal of mite and other arthropod eggs, such as European red mite (ERM) and codling moth (CM) eggs, may be enhanced by the use of a surface cleaning system, such as a hot water, high-pressure spray. Even if organosilicones, like Silwet L-77, have been used to kill spider mites, it was unclear if these chemicals could also facilitate the removal of arthropod eggs from the surface of fruit. In the present study, high-pressure washing process was highly effective in removing CM and ERM eggs at pressures as low as 400 kPa, resulting in greater than 60% removal of ERM eggs and 90% of CM eggs. High-pressure washing was the most important factor in removal of codling moth and European red mite eggs than organosilicone dips or hot water sprays.
SU-FF-T-218: Volumetric Patient-Specific Quality Assurance for VMAT Treatment Delivery Using the Dynalog Files

Purpose: The Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) technology is a novel delivery method that is capable of producing highly conformal dose distributions though concomitant optimization of MLC shapes, dose rate and gantry speed. The aim of this work is to present a practical approach for patient—specific volumetric reconstruction of the dose delivered of a VMAT treatment using the DMLC and treatment controller log (Dynalog) files. Method: The accuracy of VMAT delivery was analyzed for prostate patients. For each patient, a clinical treatment was reconstructed and values recorded in the log files for the gantry angle, dose rate and leaf positions were converted to a new DICOM‐compliant plan using a custom‐developed software system. The plan was imported in a treatment planning system and the reconstructed dose was recreated on the original CT by simply recomputing the dose. Reconstructed and planned doses together with original CT scan and delineated structures are in the same coordinate systems and can be combined directly or verified through dose‐volume histograms to asses treatment objective degradation due to machine imprecision. Results: In all cases, analysis of the leaf positions showed a maximum error of −0.26 mm (mean 0.15 mm). Gantry speed deviation was less than 1° and the delivered MU was within 0.001 % from the planned value. Measurements using the Matrixx system in a phantom were used to validate the dosimetric accuracy of the proposed method, with an agreement of at least 96% using the gamma index. Conclusions: The methodology provides an volumetric evaluation of the dose delivered by VMAT plans, easily achieved by automated analysis of Dynalog files without additional measurements or phantom setups. It provides a valuable platform for adaptive therapy in future.
Shin'm 2.0

Shin'm 2.0 is the second version of Shin'm project that was created in 2009. Using the Kinect sensor, spatialized sound and two video projections aligned together, it creates an interactive space of nebula bubbles in one corner of the exhibition space. This fluid space is filled with nebula bubbles constantly circulating through a "black hole" in the center. As the participant moves in deeper, first the bubbles' gravity center moves to the participant, and forms the shape of the participant's body. If the participant jumps or raises his or her hand up high, bubbles explode as their bubble-filled-body dissipates. Sound texture is designed to enhance the illusion of attachment and dissipation through this experience.
Determination of linear components in additive models

Additive models have been widely used in nonparametric regression, mainly due to their ability to avoid the problem of the ‘curse of dimensionality’. When some of the additive components are linear, the model can be further simplified and higher convergence rates can be achieved for the estimation of these linear components. In this paper, we propose a testing procedure for the determination of linear components in nonparametric additive models. We adopt the penalised spline approach for modelling the nonparametric functions, and the test is a sort of Chi-square test based on finite-order penalised spline estimators. The limiting behaviour of the test statistic is investigated. To obtain the critical values for finite sample problems, we use resampling techniques to establish a bootstrap test. The performance of the proposed tests is studied through simulation experiments and a real-data example.
Myocardial tagging and strain analysis at 3 Tesla: comparison with 1.5 Tesla imaging.

Purpose To determine whether imaging at 3 T could improve and prolong the tag contrast compared to images acquired at 1.5 T in normal volunteers, and whether such improvement would translate into the ability to perform strain measurements in diastole. Materials and Methods Normal volunteers (N = 13) were scanned at 1.5 T (GE Signa CV/i) and 3.0 T (GE VH/i). An ECG-triggered, segmented k-space, spoiled-gradient-echo grid-tagged sequence was used during cine acquisition. Tag contrast was determined by the difference of the mean signal intensity (SI) of the tagline to the mean SI of the myocardium divided by the standard deviation (SD) of the noise (CNRtag). Matched short-axis (SA) slices were analyzed. Strain measurements were performed on images using a 2D strain analysis software program (harmonic phase (HARP)). Results The average CNRtag over the cardiac cycle was superior at 3 T compared to 1.5 T for all slices (3 T: 23.4 ± 12.1, 1.5 T: 9.8 ± 8.4; P < 0.0001). This difference remained significant at cycle initiation, end-systole, and the end R-R interval (at cycle termination: 3 T = 14.0 ± 11.0 vs. 1.5 T = 4.4 ± 3.5; P < 0.01). Strain measures were obtainable only in early systole for 1.5 T images, but were robust throughout the entire R-R interval for 3 T images. Conclusion Imaging at 3 T had a significant benefit for myocardial tag persistence through the cardiac cycle. The improvement allowed strain analysis to be performed into diastole. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Solution of some two-dimensional incompressible flow problems using a curvilinear coordinate system based calculation procedure

The capabilities of a new curvilinear coordinate-based calculation procedure for incompressible flows are demonstrated by its application to a variety of test problems. The results are compared with the results of independent numerical and experimental studies available in the literature. These comparisons indicate that the proposed scheme can be successfully used to predict fluid flow and heat transfer phenomena in complex configurations.
Endo R DpnI restriction of Escherichia coli DNA synthesized in vitro. Evidence that the ends of Okazaki pieces are determined by template deoxynucleotide sequence.

Abstract A restriction enzyme from Diplococcus pneumoniae, Endo R DpnI, cuts methylated DNA on cellophane discs into pieces which are about the same size as Okazaki pieces. DNA was synthesized in vitro on cellophane discs in the presence of β-nicotinamide mononucleotide to prevent joining of Okazaki pieces. This DNA was methylated by the addition of S-adenosyl methionine to the reaction mixture. When Endo R DpnI was used to cut methylated DNA made in vitro in the presence of S-adenosyl methionine and β-nicotinamide mononucleotide, no decrease in sedimentation of the Okazaki pieces was observed. Control experiments demonstrated that Okazaki pieces were methylated in vitro and that Endo R DpnI was capable of cutting double-stranded DNA containing methylated Okazaki pieces, that is, synthesized in β-nicotinamide mononucleotide and S-adenosyl methionine. These results are interpreted to mean that the ends of Okazaki pieces are non-randomly distributed with respect to 6-methyl adenine residues.
Violence in schools: Prevalence, prediction, and prevention

Violence in schools is a pervasive problem and one that requires greater attention from educators, policy makers, and researchers. This review will examine the prevalence and evolution of school violence as well as the risk factors for students, families, and schools. In addition, prevention and intervention strategies will be identified as well as suggestions for future research.
Design and synthesis of new steroidal inhibitors of estrogen synthase (aromatase).

The estrogen synthase (aromatase) enzyme system is responsible for the biosynthesis of estrogen hormones in human females. Estrogens are vital for normal growth and development, but will promote the growth of certain breast cancers. Appromaximately 30–50% of breast cancers are considered to be hormone-dependent. Consequently regulation of estrogen biosynthesis has advanced as a potential therapeutic strategy. This has led to the development of active-site inhibitors, which may have potential for the control of breast cancer. We have recently prepared a number of new steroidal inhibitors that have been evaluated as aromatase inhibitors. These include steroidal A/B-ring isoxazoles and a series of A/B-ring pyrazoles with alkyl- and aryl-substituted nitrogen. In addition, we have developed new chemical procedures for the synthesis of 6β-hydroxy steroids, which could be key intermediates in the preparation of C-19 inhibitors of aromatase activity.
Upconversion luminescence of Er-doped ZnF/sub 2/ channel waveguides grown by MBE

Planar waveguides of erbium doped ZnF2 on MgF2 substrates have been grown using molecular beam epitaxy and channel waveguides have been formed by ion milling. By exciting individual channels with an 800 nm pump, strong upconversion fluorescence has been generated at 410, 550 and 670 nm and at numerous weaker peaks. The fabrication technique can be adapted to semiconductor substrates for making compact diode-pumped visible and infra-red lasers.
SU‐GG‐T‐198: Measurements and Evaluation of Doses Outside the Treatment Volume From Photon External Beam Radiation Therapy

Purpose: There has been increased concern about the amount of dose delivered outside the treatment volume from advanced radiation therapy techniques. It has been suggested that these treatments, such as IMRT, IGRT, and SBRT, present a potential impact on the induction of second malignancies due to a larger scattered and leakage radiation. Children have much higher risks to develop a radiation‐induced cancer from radiotherapy. In this study, doses outside the treatment volume calculated from the Eclipse planning system were evaluated and compared with measurements from MOSFET and TL dosimeters. An anthropomorphic phantom and a 3‐D polymergeldosimeter were employed for measurements. Method and Materials: The “ATOM” anthropomorphic phantom was CT‐ scanned into the Eclipse‐Helios system. An IMRT prostate plan was designed for the ATOM phantom. Both MOSFET detectors and TLD were calibrated based on ion chamber dosimetry. The MOSFET and TLD were precisely placed in positions corresponding to various internal organs, allowing point‐dose measurements and comparison. BANG® polymergel, prepared in a cylindrical container with a volume similar to that of a 10‐year child, was placed next to the phantom head for 3D dose distribution measurement in a brain IMRT. The DVH in the gel cylinder, analyzed with an optical CT scanner, was compared with that from the planning system. Results: Our results show that the agreement between the MOSFET measurements and the calculated results are within 5% for points within the target. At medium‐dose regions (2–50%), discrepancies are within 15%. At low dose regions (<2%) the measured results from MOSFET and TLD agree well, and can be 2–3 times larger than the planning results. DVH comparison between gels and the treatment planning will be presented. Conclusion: Anthropomorphic phantom with MOSFET and TL detectors as well as polymergels can provide evaluation of doses outside the treatment volume.
An embryonic stage-specific enhancer within the murine β-globin locus mediates domain-wide histone hyperacetylation

In mammalian nuclei, a select number of tissue-specific gene loci exhibit broadly distributed patterns of histone modifications, such as histone hyperacetylation, that are normally associated with active gene promoters. Previously, we characterized such hyperacetylated domains within mammalian β-globin gene loci, and determined that within the murine locus, neither the β-globin locus control region nor the gene promoters were required for domain formation. Here, we identify a developmentally specific erythroid enhancer, hypersensitive site-embryonic 1 (HS-E1), located within the embryonic β-globin domain in mouse, which is homologous to a region located downstream of the human embryonic ϵ-globin gene. This sequence exhibits nuclease hypersensitivity in primitive erythroid cells and acts as an enhancer in gain-of-function assays. Deletion of HS-E1 from the endogenous murine β-globin locus results in significant decrease in the expression of the embryonic β-globin genes and loss of the domain-wide pattern of histone hyperacetylation. The data suggest that HS-E1 is an enhancer that is uniquely required for β-like globin expression in primitive erythroid cells, and that it defines a novel class of enhancer that works in part by domain-wide modulation of chromatin structure.
Crystal Structure of the Conserved Core of HIV-1 Nef Complexed with a Src Family SH3 Domain

The crystal structure of the conserved core of HIV-1 Nef has been determined in complex with the SH3 domain of a mutant Fyn tyrosine kinase (a single amino acid substitution, Arg-96 to isoleucine), to which Nef binds tightly. The conserved PxxP sequence motif of Nef, known to be important for optimal viral replication, is part of a polyproline type II helix that engages the SH3 domain in a manner resembling closely the interaction of isolated peptides with SH3 domains. The Nef-SH3 structure also reveals how high affinity and specificity in the SH3 interaction is achieved by the presentation of the PxxP motif within the context of the folded structure of Nef.
Heritability study of eGFP-transformed Aspergillus flavus strains

Field inoculation with non-aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus is a preferred method for pre-harvest biocontrol of aflatoxin contamination of maize, cottonseed, and groundnut. Rationale for using these A. flavus strains is that they (1) maintain persistent control of aflatoxigenic fungi in the field, and (2) are incapable of out-crossing. Trackable field-released biocontrol strains will be beneficial to study the movement and longevity of non-aflatoxigenic A. flavus strains. Incorporating a naturally-occurring compound such as enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) into a biocontrol strain might allow observation of its behaviour in field settings. The success of long-term field testing of eGFP-expressing A. flavus strains depends on their ability to maintain fluorescence throughout growth. Additionally, to ensure accurate tracking of the fluorescent atoxigenic strain, the likelihood of their out-crossing with individuals from the native population must be determined. In vitro mating experiments paired ea...
Identification of a Key Structural Element for Protein Folding Within β-Hairpin Turns

Specific residues in a polypeptide may be key contributors to the stability and foldability of the unique native structure. Identification and prediction of such residues is, therefore, an important area of investigation in solving the protein folding problem. Atypical main-chain conformations can help identify strains within a folded protein, and by inference, positions where unique amino acids may have a naturally high frequency of occurrence due to favorable contributions to stability and folding. Non-Gly residues located near the left-handed alpha-helical region (L-alpha) of the Ramachandran plot are a potential indicator of structural strain. Although many investigators have studied mutations at such positions, no consistent energetic or kinetic contributions to stability or folding have been elucidated. Here we report a study of the effects of Gly, Ala and Asn substitutions found within the L-alpha region at a characteristic position in defined beta-hairpin turns within human acidic fibroblast growth factor, and demonstrate consistent effects upon stability and folding kinetics. The thermodynamic and kinetic data are compared to available data for similar mutations in other proteins, with excellent agreement. The results have identified that Gly at the i+3 position within a subset of beta-hairpin turns is a key contributor towards increasing the rate of folding to the native state of the polypeptide while leaving the rate of unfolding largely unchanged.
Analysis of interaction between number of implant catheters and dose-volume histograms in prostate high- dose-rate brachytherapy using a computer model.

Abstract Purpose In prostate high-dose-rate brachytherapy, to determine before implant, using the standard geometric optimization algorithm, whether there is an optimal number of catheters. Materials and methods Transrectal ultrasound images of the prostate from 24 patients were transferred into the brachytherapy planning system. Urethra and prostate contours were digitized onto each axial slice of a CT scan, as well as hypothetical locations of the catheters (2/3 of the catheters along the prostate contour, 1/3 around the urethra). Each prostate was implanted with 9, 12, 15, 18, and 21 catheters. Dosimetry was optimized using a geometric optimization algorithm; prescription isodose was chosen so that 95% of planning target volume was covered by the 100% isodose. Results A significant increase in mean volume of prostate receiving 150% of the dose (V150) when the number of catheters decreased ( p Conclusion V150 increased when fewer catheters were used. There was no significant difference among the 21-, 18-, and 15-catheter groups: the geometric optimization routine probably compensated for the larger distance between dwell positions. Based on the technique described in our study, we conclude that 15 to 21 catheters seem to cover the prostate adequately without creating excess hot spots.
Airborne cow allergen, ammonia and particulate matter at homes vary with distance to industrial scale dairy operations: an exposure assessment

Community exposures to environmental contaminants from industrial scale dairy operations are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of dairy operations on nearby communities by assessing airborne contaminants (particulate matter, ammonia, and cow allergen, Bos d 2) associated with dairy operations inside and outside homes. The study was conducted in 40 homes in the Yakima Valley, Washington State where over 61 dairies operate. A concentration gradient was observed showing that airborne contaminants are significantly greater at homes within one-quarter mile (0.4 km) of dairy facilities, outdoor Bos d 2, ammonia, and TD were 60, eight, and two times higher as compared to homes greater than three miles (4.8 km) away. In addition median indoor airborne Bos d 2 and ammonia concentrations were approximately 10 and two times higher in homes within one-quarter mile (0.4 km) compared to homes greater than three miles (4.8 km) away. These findings demonstrate that dairy operations increase community exposures to agents with known human health effects. This study also provides evidence that airborne biological contaminants (i.e. cow allergen) associated with airborne particulate matter are statistically elevated at distances up to three miles (4.8 km) from dairy operations.