cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extraction of major acidic Ca2+ dependent phosphoproteins from synaptic membranes

The association of several phosphoproteins with the synaptosomal plasma membrane (SPM) was investigated by phosphorylating SPM fractions from neonatal rat brain in the presence of Ca2+ and then exposing these to a variety of agents. Extraction of the major acidic phosphoproteins, GAP-43, pp40, and pp80, was assessed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and fluorography. All three proteins were best extracted from the membrane by high pH and by guanidine hydrochloride. GAP-43 was not extracted in the presence of either low- or high-ionic-strength buffers, reducing agents, or chelating agents; pp80 and pp40, however, showed a significant extraction even under low-ionic-strength conditions. Partition experiments with Triton X-114 revealed an amphiphilic behavior for GAP-43 and a strong affinity for hydrophobic environments for pp80 and pp40. None of the phosphoproteins was released from the membrane by the use of a phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C. The extraction properties of GAP-43, pp80, and pp40 are similar to those of known extrinsic membrane proteins and therefore suggest that these phosphoproteins are peripheral rather than integral to the membrane compartment.
Comparative Gene Prediction using Conditional Random Fields

Computational gene prediction using generative models has reached a plateau, with several groups converging to a generalized hidden Markov model (GHMM) incorporating phylogenetic models of nucleotide sequence evolution. Further improvements in gene calling accuracy are likely to come through new methods that incorporate additional data, both comparative and species specific. Conditional Random Fields (CRFs), which directly model the conditional probability P(y|x) of a vector of hidden states conditioned on a set of observations, provide a unified framework for combining probabilistic and non-probabilistic information and have been shown to outperform HMMs on sequence labeling tasks in natural language processing. We describe the use of CRFs for comparative gene prediction. We implement a model that encapsulates both a phylogenetic-GHMM (our baseline comparative model) and additional non-probabilistic features. We tested our model on the genome sequence of the fungal human pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. Our baseline comparative model displays accuracy comparable to the the best available gene prediction tool for this organism. Moreover, we show that discriminative training and the incorporation of non-probabilistic evidence significantly improve performance. Our software implementation, Conrad, is freely available with an open source license at http://www.broad.mit.edu/annotation/conrad/.
The release of dissolved organic carbon as a result of diatom fragmentation during feeding by Mysis relicta

The release of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) by Mysis relicta that occurs while feeding may be an important pathway in the recycling of nutrients in Lake Michigan. Laboratory experiments were conducted to determine the levels of DOC released by M. relicta from Lake Michigan while grazing on laboratory-cultured diatoms. Increasing filtering rates were observed at progressively lower chlorophyll concentrations. Higher filtering rates were accompanied by higher fragmentation of diatoms and a higher concomitant release of DOC from broken cells. While the amount of DOC release is small (0.02−3.30 μg C·1−1 · h−1), it nonetheless is of importance to bacteria and possibly some algae. After assimilation by bacteria and algae, the organic carbon is then available to consumers.
LTP mechanisms: from silence to four-lane traffic

Brief periods of strong neuronal activity induce long-lasting changes in synaptic function. This synaptic plasticity is thought to play important roles in learning and memory. One example--long-term potentation in the CA1 region of the hippocampus--has been studied extensively, and conflicting views regarding the underlying mechanisms have emerged. Recent findings, regarding basic properties of synaptic transmission, appear to reconcile these diverging views.
Antenna system improvement to control GPS radiation pattern on portable radios

The technique to improve performance of specific GPS antennas on portable handsets by means of controlling the radiation pattern is presented in this paper. Location-based applications for handheld wireless communication devices may represent a significant revenue stream for cellular operators and may therefore add value to global positioning system (GPS) enabled handsets. Location-enabled features may also be desirable or even required, for instance, in professional and public safety radios. In order for location-based applications to provide the required quality-of-service (QoS), as it may be defined from case to case depending on the type of application, it is critical to implement GPS systems capable of operating reliably in the envisioned use scenarios.
Public Violence and State Building in Central America

This article examines the role played by war, and public violence more generally, in the state-building experiences of Central America. Bellicist theory expects that wars provide a stimulus to extractive efforts, thus enhancing the autonomy and capacity of the state over time, though recent qualitative studies of South America find the opposite. I expand the reach of bellicist theory to Central America through the broader concept of public violence, which captures the long-term impact of external and internal rivals on the state. The quantitative tests demonstrate that Central American interstate and civil wars reduce the extractive ability of states, consistent with the South American evidence. Interstate rivals stimulate extractive efforts among governments, whereas intrastate rivals detract from those efforts. Incorporating the concept of public violence into bellicist theory thus helps to increase our understanding of Central American state building.
Should I Fence the Streams, Ponds, and Wetlands in My Pastures?

Fencing pasture streams, ponds, and wetlands can improve fish and wildlife habitat and benefit agricultural landowners. DOI:10.2458/azu_rangelands_v28i1_Giuliano
1,1-bissilylallenes from the rearrangement of 1-(pentamethyldisilanyl)-3-(trimethylsiloxy)-1-alkylnes

Abstract The reaction of 1-(pentamethyldisilanyl)-3-(trimethylsiloxy)-1-alkynes with TiCl 4 or FeCl 3 - Me 3 SiCl affords 1-(chlorodimothylsilyl)-1-(trimethylsilyl)allenes.
An analytical model for self-limiting behavior of hot-carrier degradation in 0.25 mu m n-MOSFET's

Hot-carrier degradation of short-channel n-MOSFETs becomes saturated after reaching a certain threshold value. The physical mechanism for this self-limiting behavior is investigated. It is proposed that the hot-carrier-induced oxide trapped charge and interface states form a potential barrier that repels subsequent hot carriers from causing further damage and can lead to the saturation of device degradation. A physical model is developed on the basis of the analysis. The model is verified by experimental results and can be used for more accurate device reliability projection. >
Fault-tolerance through scheduling of aperiodic tasks in hard real-time multiprocessor systems

Real time systems are being increasingly used in several applications which are time critical in nature. Fault tolerance is an important requirement of such systems, due to the catastrophic consequences of not tolerating faults. We study a scheme that provides fault tolerance through scheduling in real time multiprocessor systems. We schedule multiple copies of dynamic, aperiodic, nonpreemptive tasks in the system, and use two techniques that we call deallocation and overloading to achieve high acceptance ratio (percentage of arriving tasks scheduled by the system). The paper compares the performance of our scheme with that of other fault tolerant scheduling schemes, and determines how much each of deallocation and overloading affects the acceptance ratio of tasks. The paper also provides a technique that can help real time system designers determine the number of processors required to provide fault tolerance in dynamic systems. Lastly, a formal model is developed for the analysis of systems with uniform tasks.
ON THE STRUCTURE OF CONTINUOUS SPATIAL SEMIGROUPS OF *-ENDOMORPHISMS OF ${\mathfrak B} ({\mathfrak h})$

This paper concerns the structure of continuous spatial semigroups of *-endomorphisms of . These are semigroups of *-endomorphisms of for which there exist a strongly continuous one parameter semigroup of intertwining isometries. The nature of the intertwining semigroups and the associated boundary representation is analyzed.
Current concepts of competitive exclusion cultures for the control of salmonellae in domestic poultry.

Two defined competitive exclusion (CE) cultures (CF-I and CF-II) and a characterized CE culture (CF-III), which are composed of mixtures of nonpathogenic bacteria, were developed from anaerobic continuous-flow (CF) cultures that had been inoculated with cecal contents from adult chickens. After the primary CF cultures attained homeostasis, 13 bacteria (11 facultative anaerobes and 2 obligate anaerobes) representing 6 genera were isolated from CF-I; 11 bacteria (9 facultative anaerobes and 2 obligate anaerobes) representing 7 genera were isolated from CF-II; and 29 bacteria (15 facultative anaerobes and 14 obligate anaerobes) representing 14 genera were isolated from CF-III. Newly hatched chicks were treated orally with each primary CF culture; challenged on day 3 with Salmonella typhimurium; and cultured on day 10. Each culture significantly (p 0.05) reduced salmonellae intestinal colonization and organ invasion. From the reconstituted CF-I and CF-II cultures, all organisms were isolated and their fermentation parameters and efficacy against salmonellae challenge were similar, if not identical, to the primary cultures. The CF-I and CF-II cultures satisfied the 5 requirements for defined CE cultures: 1) the primary CE culture must be efficacious; 2) all bacteria must be isolated and identified; 3) the fermentation parameters of the reconstituted CE culture must be similar to those of the primary culture; 4) all bacteria from the reconstituted culture must be isolated and identified; and 5) the efficacy of the reconstituted culture must be very similar to the primary culture. From these integrated studies, 3 mechanisms were demonstrated for preventing the enteric colonization of salmonellae in newly hatched chicks that were pretreated with CE cultures. First, the component organisms in the CE culture establish a normal enteric flora prior to salmonellae exposure. Second, the CE organisms compete with salmonellae for essential nutrients. Third, the CE organisms produce concentrations of volatile fatty acids at low pH levels that are bacteriostatic for salmonellae.
Determining the persuasiveness of message sidedness: A prudent note about utilizing research summaries

This essay responds to the analysis by O'Keefe and analyzes the impact of his suggestions. Most of what O'Keefe suggests contains merit, however a 100% acceptance of the suggestions still generates a conclusion that two‐sided refutational messages constitute the most persuasive form of message. Caution remains warranted when accepting scientific findings but prudence suggests that when the available research points to a finding and independent replications agree with that conclusion, then the cautious person should accept that point until provided substantial evidence to the contrary.
Microarray Profiling of microRNA Changes in Cells That Express HIV-1 Proteins

S.-Y. Ying (ed.) Current Perspectives in microRNAs (miRNA), 385 © Springer Science + Business Media B.V. 2008 Abstract Mammalian microRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNAs of 18–25 nucleotides (nt) in length that are transcribed from the genome and serve a variety of regulatory functions. Recent studies have verified that miRNAs in addition to playing antipathogen roles in plants and lower eukaryotes also serve important roles in defending mammalian cells against endogenous and exogenous viral infection. In a setting where miRNAs may act to restrict viral infection, it stands to reason that viruses may have a vested interest to change the miRNA expression profile of infected cells. Here, we describe our experience in establishing a microarray for measuring 327 human miRNAs. We illustrate an example whereby this microarray approach was used to measure miRNA changes in human cells transfected to express human immunodeficiency virus proteins.
The Timing of Tax Transparency

Fairness in the administration of the tax law is the subject of intense debate in the United States. As recent headlines reveal, the Internal Revenue Service has been accused of failing to enforce the tax law equitably in its review of tax-exempt status applications by political organizations, the international tax structures of multinational corporations, and the estate tax returns of millionaires, among other areas. Many have argued that greater “tax transparency” would better empower the public to hold the IRS accountable and the IRS to defend itself against accusations of malfeasance. Mandatory public disclosure of taxpayers’ tax return information is often proposed as a way to achieve greater tax transparency. Yet, in addition to concerns regarding exposure of personal and proprietary information, broad public disclosure measures pose potential threats to the taxing authority’s ability to enforce the tax law.Given the competing values of accountability and enforcement, what tax return information should be observable by the public? This Article argues that timing matters. The IRS continually engages in enforcement actions ex post, after taxpayers have pursued transactions and claimed tax positions, such as by conducting audits or settlements. But it also frequently engages in actions ex ante, before taxpayers pursue transactions and claim tax positions, by issuing advance tax rulings to and entering into agreements with specific taxpayers. While current law appears to require public disclosure of certain types of ex ante tax administration, many forms of ex ante tax administration remain concealed from public view. This Article argues that documents related to a specific taxpayer’s tax affairs that reflect ex ante tax administration should be publicly accessible as a means of accountability, but that documents that reflect ex post tax actions should remain private in order to preserve effective tax enforcement. Further, this Article proposes that the public should have access not only to ex ante tax administration actions where the taxing authority grants taxpayers’ requests, but also to those actions where the taxing authority denies such requests, even if it does so without issuing an official written determination, a concept it defines as “dual tax transparency.”The Article then applies this analysis to several types of ex ante tax administration that are currently obscured by the curtain of tax privacy: withdrawn private letter ruling requests, adverse tax-exempt determination letters and advance pricing agreements. It concludes by exploring approaches to improving the accountability of the IRS regarding its ex post tax enforcement other than public disclosure of tax return information.
Graft Modification of Collagen and Blending Spinning in Concentrated Aqueous Solution of Sodium Thiocyanate

Graft modification of collagen in aqueous solution of sodium thiocyanate(NaSCN) is developed in this paper and this modification can largely change it's solubility in water,thus make it can be used in fiber production.Grafting modified collagen was characterized by infrared spectrum and X-ray diffraction.Spinning performances of spinning solution with several ratios of modified collagen to polyacrylonitrile were checked.The breaking strength of collagen/PAN blending fibers gradually decreases as the content of collagen raising.Micro-appearance observed under scanning electron microscope(SEM) presents the surface with longitudinal groove which is typical character of wet spinning and the depth of grooves increases with the increase of draw ratio.
Minimizing Wide Range Regret with Time Selection Functions.

We consider the problem of minimizing regret with respect to a given set S of pairs of time selection functions and modifications rules. We give an online algorithm that has O( √ T log |S|) regret with respect to S when the algorithm is run for T time steps and there are N actions allowed. This improves the upper bound of O( √ TN log(|I||F|)) given by Blum and Mansour [BM07a] for the case when S = I × F for a set I of time selection functions and a set F of modification rules. We do so by giving a simple reduction that uses an online algorithm for external regret as a black box.
Consequences of constitutive deletion of melanin-concentrating hormone-1 receptors for feeding and foraging behaviors of mice.

In order to decipher the functional involvement of melanin-concentrating hormone 1 (MCH1) receptors in the control of feeding and foraging behaviors, mice with constitutive deletion of MCH1 receptors MCH1R −/− or knockout (KO) were studied and compared to age-matched littermate control mice (MCH1R +/+ or wildtype (WT)). Several challenges to food-motivated behaviors of food-restricted WT and KO mice were implemented. There were no differences between genotypes in the acquisition of a nose-poke response that produced food or in a discrimination between a response that produced food and one that did not. There were also no genotype differences in the rate of extinction of a food-motivated response. However, during the first day of extinction, foraging behaviors were increased significantly more in KO than in WT mice. Likewise, when the response requirement to obtain food was progressively increased, KO mice made significantly more food-directed responses than WT mice. Although adulteration of food with quinine did not suppress food-directed behavior in either genotype when the mice were food-restricted, manipulation of the degree of food-deprivation resulted in suppression of behavior of WT mice without suppressing the behavior of KO mice. Although response-produced foot shock suppressed food-maintained responding of both WT and KO mice, equipotent levels of shock (based upon psychophysical thresholds) suppressed behavior of WT mice without suppressing behavior of the KO mice. Finally, under a Vogel conflict procedure, KO mice had significantly higher levels of both punished and non-punished food maintained responding. Thus, the data from challenges with both appetitive and noxious stimulus challenges support the conclusion that mice with constitutive deletion of MCH1Rs have increased food seeking motivation that is coincident with their higher metabolism. The data also highlight important differences in the biological impact of MCH1 receptor KO and MCH1 receptor antagonism.
Prognostic Value of FDG-PET in Lymphoma Patients Undergoing Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation.

High-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is a standard treatment for patients (pts) with relapsed or primary refractory lymphoma that is responding to salvage chemotherapy. Limitations of ASCT include significant morbidity, cost, restriction of further treatment options, and frequent relapse of lymphoma. To define the ability of FDG-PET to predict clinical outcome after ASCT, we conducted a retrospective analysis of lymphoma pts in our institution who received salvage chemotherapy followed by ASCT for relapsed or primary refractory lymphoma between 1999 and 2005. We identified 47 lymphoma pts (19 with diffuse large B-cell, 18 with Hodgkin, 4 with mantle cell, 3 with follicular and 3 with other lymphomas) who had an FDG-PET scan after at least two cycles of salvage chemotherapy and prior to ASCT. Three pts were excluded from the analysis because their FDG-PET scan results were non-conclusive. The remaining 44 pts (median age 44 yrs, range: 19–65) were categorized into FDG-PET scan negative (26 pts) and positive (18 pts) groups. Each group was evaluated for event-free survival (EFS), which was defined as the interval between the date of the transplant to the date of relapse after complete remission (CR) or the date of progression for pts without CR or the date of death from any cause without a documented relapse. The overall median follow-up was 14 mo (range: 2–58). There were no statistically significant differences in the distribution of lymphoma subtypes between the two groups. In the FDG-PET negative group, the median EFS was 18 mo (range: 3–58) with 14 pts (54%) remaining in CR. In the FDG-PET positive group, the median EFS was 5 mo (range: 1.5–19) with only 1 pt (6%) remaining in CR. Comparison between the two groups confirmed that the difference in the median EFS was highly statistically significant (p<0.001). Additional data to determine the correlation of the FDG-PET with conventional CT scans will be presented. Our study suggests that a positive FDG-PET scan after salvage chemotherapy and prior to ASCT indicates an extremely poor chance of achieving a prolonged remission after ASCT. Clinical trials of new approaches should be investigated for pts with relapsed or primary refractory lymphoma that remains detectable by FDG-PET after salvage chemotherapy. ![Figure][1] Figure [1]: pending:yes
[211At]YC-I-27 for PSMA-Targeted Alpha-Particle Radiopharmaceutical Therapy

143 Objectives Alpha particle emitters such as 211At have a high linear energy transfer and short range, offering the potential to treat micrometastases effectively while sparing normal tissues. We synthesized and investigated a novel urea-based astatinated small molecule targeting the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) for treatment of prostate cancer (PC) micrometastases. Methods The PSMA-targeting alpha emitter (2S)-2-(3-(1-carboxy-5-(4-[211At]asatatobenzamido)pentyl)ureido)pentanedioic acid ([211At]YC-I-27) was synthesized. Cellular uptake and clonogenic survival were tested in PSMA-positive (PSMA+) PC3 PIP and PSMA-negative (PSMA-) PC3 flu human PC cells after treatment with [211At]YC-I-27. Antitumor efficacy was tested in mice bearing PSMA+ PC3 PIP and PSMA- PC3 flu flank xenografts after administration of 740 kBq (20 µCi), as well as in mice bearing micrometastases from a novel PSMA+ luciferase-expressing PC3-ML cell line after administration of doses ranging from 0 to 370 kBq (10 µCi). Biodistribution was tested in mice bearing PSMA+ PC3 PIP and PSMA- PC3 flu flank xenografts after administration of 185 kBq (5 µCi). Sub-organ distribution was evaluated using α-Camera images, and micro-scale dosimetry was modeled. Long-term toxicity was assessed in mice by serial weights and laboratory tests for up to 12 mo, as well as necropsy. Results Treatment with [211At]YC-I-27 resulted in PSMA-specific cellular uptake and decreased clonogenic survival in vitro in PSMA+ PC3 PIP cells. This agent also demonstrated significantly improved survival in the PSMA+ micrometastatic PC model (P Conclusions PSMA-targeted α-particle radiopharmaceutical therapy with [211At]YC-I-27 yielded significantly improved survival in mice bearing PC micrometastases after systemic administration. [211At]YC-I-27 also showed uptake in renal proximal tubules resulting in late nephrotoxicity, highlighting the importance of long-term toxicity studies and micro-scale dosimetry.
Evaluating opportunities for an increased role of winter crops as adaptation to climate change in dryland cropping systems of the U.S. Inland Pacific Northwest

The long-term sustainability of wheat-based dryland cropping systems in the Inland Pacific Northwest (IPNW) of the United States depends on how these systems adapt to climate change. Climate models project warming with slight increases in winter precipitation but drier summers for the IPNW. These conditions combined with elevated atmospheric CO2, which promote crop growth and improve transpiration-use efficiency, may be beneficial for cropping systems in the IPNW and may provide regional opportunities for agricultural diversification and intensification. Crop modeling simulation under future climatic conditions showed increased wheat productivity for the IPNW for most of the century. Water use by winter wheat was projected to decrease significantly in higher and intermediate precipitation zones and increase slightly in drier locations, but with winter crops utilizing significantly more water overall than spring crops. Crop diversification with inclusion of winter crops other than wheat is a possibility depending on agronomic and economic considerations, while substitution of winter for spring crops appeared feasible only in high precipitation areas. Increased weed pressure, higher pest populations, expanded ranges of biotic stressors, and agronomic, plant breeding, economic, technology, and other factors will influence what production systems eventually prevail under future climatic conditions in the region.
CodePilot: Scaffolding End-to-End Collaborative Software Development for Novice Programmers

Novice programmers often have trouble installing, configuring, and managing disparate tools (e.g., version control systems, testing infrastructure, bug trackers) that are required to become productive in a modern collaborative software development environment. To lower the barriers to entry into software development, we created a prototype IDE for novices called CodePilot, which is, to our knowledge, the first attempt to integrate coding, testing, bug reporting, and version control management into a real-time collaborative system. CodePilot enables multiple users to connect to a web-based programming session and work together on several major phases of software development. An eight-subject exploratory user study found that first-time users of CodePilot spontaneously used it to assume roles such as developer/tester and developer/assistant when creating a web application together in pairs. Users felt that CodePilot could aid in scaffolding for novices, situational awareness, and lowering barriers to impromptu collaboration.
Cripping Care for Individuals with Psychiatric Disability: Looking Beyond Self-Determination Frameworks to Address Treatment and Recovery

This paper seeks to intervene in mental health discourses of self-determination as well as disability studies discourses concerning care. Attending to the material, gendered, and racialized individual care needs of living, cooking, cleaning, working, and raising children is an affirmative step towards alleviating the difficulties in navigating mental distress and treatment for white women and, especially, women of color in the global north.
Developing Preservice Teachers’ Instructional Design Skills Through Case-Based Instruction: Examining the Impact of Discussion Format:

For more than 100 years, case-based instruction (CBI) has been an effective instructional method for building problem-solving skills in learners. While class discussion is often included as part of...
Exploring the Effects of Social Contexts on Task-Based Information Seeking Behavior

The aim of this study is to identify social effects on task-based information seeking behavior. Task has been studied for understanding information seeking behavior in relation to task properties and task performers» characteristics. However, there has been little attention to social contexts of task. This work focuses on social aspects of task performance and information seeking behavior by analyzing effects of a social context in which task is generated and conducted on cognition of individual performers. A novel theoretical framework has been designed based on literature on information science and sociology. In the future, data will be collected using self-recorded diaries and subsequent in-depth interviews.
Between Diaspora and Homeland: The Study of Africa and the African Diaspora in the USA

The end of the Cold War resulted in a decline of one of its academic handmaidens, area studies, and a rise in other academic pursuits, including diaspora studies, among them African diaspora studies. Yet African diaspora studies is not new, but rather has a long genealogy, especially among the Western African diaspora, meaning the African diaspora in the Western world, in the Americas and Europe. Ideologically, the defining contribution of the Western African diaspora was a worldview that conceived of peoples of African descent not in ethnic, national, imperial, regional, or even continental terms, but in global ones. In the new academic dispensation, the study of peoples of African descent globally should build on this tradition and eschew particularism, exceptionalism, and national historiography in favor of a transnational, transcontinental, and transoceanic approach.
Reduction of Amplitude-to-Phase Conversion in Charge-Compensated Modified Uni-traveling Carrier Photodiodes

We report optimization of charge-compensated modified unitravelling carrier photodiodes to reduce amplitude-to-phase conversion. Phase variation with photocurrent is decreased by up to 5 times.
Transition from the Profit to the Nonprofit World

Nonprofit managers understand what is needed to succeed in their sector. Within the context of the classroom, many nonprofit managers came and talked to the displaced managers about their own careers. Instead of teaching in an abstract way, nonprofit managers related their own personal experiences as a way of showing the importance of certain roles and ideas. Their “moral tales” are in fact professional signposts, which describe the most important roles in the nonprofit sector.
Technology Gap Analysis on Sodium-Heated Steam Generators Supporting Advanced Burner Reactor Development

The goals of the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership (GNEP) are to expand the use of nuclear energy to meet increasing global energy demand in an environmentally sustainable manner, to address nuclea...
Water Technology in Ancient Egypt

Throughout history humans have been fascinated with the Nile River, especially the Egyptian part of the Nile. The birth of this great civilization has been traced back to a time between 11,000 and 10,000 years ago. Around five thousand years ago this civilization started depending entirely on the Nile River and its annual inundation. This chapter traces the history of water engineering in ancient Egypt starting with the uses of water from the annual inundation of the Nile River for natural irrigation in the Predynastic period to the development of methodologies to advance the use of the Nile River for irrigation.
Seed deposition patterns: influence of season, nutrients, and vegetation structure

Seed associations were analysed from 5314 bird droppings, 5697 bird stomach contents, and 129 1 m2 seed traps at two sites over four years to evaluate temporal and spatial seed associations in the Eastern Deciduous Forest of North America. Analysis was concentrated on the eight most abundant seeds found in seed traps in two sites in New Jersey. Seed mixing at any given location over the course of a year is greater for seeds of fruits of low nutritional quality than for seeds of high quality fruits. Mixing within bird guts and in fecal droppings is greater for small seeds than for large seeds. The factors influencing mixing patterns and the potential selective influences on the evolution of nutritional quality of fruits and timing of fruit ripening are discussed.
Developing physician-scientists: a perspective.

Giving this talk with Andy Schafer sitting in the audience may define “chutzpah.” In his book The Vanishing Physician-Scientist? (1), he provides a comprehensive collection of thoughtful essays on the topic of training physician-scientists and I recommend it to you. As I begin, I must admit to several biases. The first is the belief that a scientist who is also a physician is uniquely poised to make discovery based on his or her exposure to the experiments of nature in the practice of medicine. The identification of H. Pylori as the cause of gastritis and peptic ulceration by Barry Marshall and Robin Warren provides a classic example. In 1984, Marshall and Warren published a seminal paper describing the identification of curved bacilli in the stomach of patients with gastritis and peptic ulceration (2). Their drive to pursue this observation and to test the hypothesis that ingestion of the bacillus led to gastritis distinguished them as scientists as well as observant physicians (3). Conversely, I hold that physicians who think scientifically or critically provide the best patient care. Here I will cite the example of April Pettit, a young physician-scientist at Vanderbilt who recently detected the index case of a now well-known outbreak of fungal meningitis resulting from an injection with a contaminated steroid preparation (4). Dr. Pettit's experience as a scientist studying tuberculosis led her to recognize that the patient for whom she was caring had an unusual form of meningitis with significant arachnoiditis, to consider pathogens beyond the usual bacteria, and to sound the alarm when it became clear that an immunocompetent host with a recent history of a spinal injection had fungal meningitis. Beyond these biases, I will elaborate several assumptions regarding the training and development of physician-scientists. The first is that all physician-scientists require a firm grounding in the principles of basic science—molecular biology, genetics, systems biology—as articulated in the report of the American Association of Medical Colleges-Howard Hughes Medical Institute report, Scientific Foundations for Future Physicians (5). Second, the mentored research apprenticeship forms the foundation of training physician-scientists. Third, these physician-scientists, whether they are clinical or translational investigators or molecular biologists, require protected time for research to be successful. Lastly, success requires exposure to a critical mass of smart people. In the context of these assumptions, in the remainder of this essay I will provide one person's perspective on how we attract and train future physician-scientists, how we maximize the yield on our training investment (and reduce attrition), and how we increase the productive lifespan of the physician-scientist.
Dioxygen Insertion into Metal-Carbon Bonds of Metalloporphyrins: Formation and Characterization of Alkylperoxy Metalloporphyrins

Under photolytic and/or thermal-reaction conditions in organic solvents, dioxygen inserts into the metal-carbon bond of a series of metalloporphyrins, (P)M(R) and (P)M(R)(L), where P = octaethylporphyrin (OEP), tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP), or tetratolylporphyrin (TTP), M = Co(III), R = -CH3, -CH2CH3, -CH2C6H5, or CH2C(CH3)3, and L = PR3, pyridine, or 1-methylimidazole to form alkylperoxy metalloporphyrins, (P)M(OOR) and (P)M(OOR)(L). The alkylperoxy metalloporphyrns isolated have been characterized by 1H NMR, FT-IR, UV-visible spectrophotometry, cyclic voltammetry, and elemental analysis. Activation parameters for dioxygen insertion into the Co-R bond have been determined from kinetic experiments. The insertion reaction proceeds via a Co(II) intermediate, which can be detected spectrophotometrically. The rate of formation of the (P)CoIII(OOR)(L) complexes is strongly dependent upon the Co-R bond dissociation energies of the parent (P)CoIII(R) complexes, which have been determined previously1. The generality of this reaction for other metalloporphyrins and the utility of these complexes in understanding heterolytic and homolytic O-O bond cleavage reactions common in the biological manipulation of dioxygen by metalloporphyrins will be discussed.
Water Structure Controls Carbonic Acid Formation in Adsorbed Water Films.

Reaction pathways and kinetics in highly structured H2O adsorbed as Angstrom to nanometer thick layers on mineral surfaces are distinct from those facilitated by bulk liquid water. We investigate the role of the interfacial H2O structure in the reaction of H2O and CO2 to form carbonic acid (H2CO3) in thin H2O films condensed onto silica nanoparticles from humidified supercritical CO2. Rates of carbonic acid formation are correlated with spectroscopic signatures of H2O structure using oxygen isotopic tracers and infrared spectroscopy. While carbonic acid virtually does not form in the supercritical phase, the silica surface catalyzes this reaction by concentrating H2O through adsorption at hydrophilic silanol groups. Within measurement uncertainty, we found no evidence that carbonic acid forms when exclusively ice-like structured H2O is detected at the silica surface. Instead, formation of H2C18O16O2 from H218O and C16O2 was found to be linearly correlated with liquid-like structured H2O that formed on the...
A high-order accurate scheme for Maxwell's equations with a generalized dispersive material model

Abstract A high-order accurate scheme for solving the time-domain Maxwell's equations with a generalized dispersive material model is described. The equations for the electric field are solved in second-order form, and a general dispersion model is treated with the addition of one or more polarization vectors which obey a set of auxiliary differential equations (ADE). Numerical methods are developed for both second-order and fourth-order accuracy in space and time. The equations are discretized using finite-differences, and advanced in time with a single-stage, three-level, space–time scheme which remains stable up to the usual explicit CFL restriction, as proven using mode analysis. Because the equations are treated in their second-order form, there is no need for grid staggering, and instead a collocated grid is used. Composite overlapping grids are used to treat complex geometries with boundary-conforming grids, and a high-order upwind dissipation is added to ensure robust and stable approximations on overlapping grids. Numerical results in two and three space dimensions confirm the accuracy and stability of the new schemes.
Automated Generation of CONSORT Diagrams Using Relational Database Software.

Background Investigators conducting prospective clinical trials must report patient flow using the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement. Depending on how data are collected, this can be a laborious, time-intensive process. However, because many trials enter data electronically, CONSORT diagrams may be generated in an automated fashion. Objective Our objective was to use an off-the-shelf software to develop a technique to generate CONSORT diagrams automatically. Methods During a recent trial, data were entered into FileMaker Pro, a commercially available software, at enrollment and three waves of follow-up. Patient-level data were coded to automatically generate CONSORT diagrams for use by the study team. Results From August 2012 to July 2014, 1,044 participants were enrolled. CONSORT diagrams were generated weekly for study team meetings to track follow-ups at 1, 6, and 12 months, for 960 (92%), 921 (90%), and 871 (88%) participants who were contacted or deceased, respectively. Reasons for loss to follow-up were captured at each follow-up. Conclusion CONSORT diagrams can be generated using a standard software for any trial and can facilitate data collection, project management, and reporting.
KRAS G12C inhibition produces a driver-limited state revealing collateral dependencies

Inhibitors targeting KRASG12C, a mutant form of the guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) KRAS, are a promising new class of oncogene-specific therapeutics for the treatment of tumors driven by the mutant protein. These inhibitors react with the mutant cysteine residue by binding covalently to the switch-II pocket (S-IIP) that is present only in the inactive guanosine diphosphate (GDP)–bound form of KRASG12C, sparing the wild-type protein. We used a genome-scale CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) functional genomics platform to systematically identify genetic interactions with a KRASG12C inhibitor in cellular models of KRASG12C mutant lung and pancreatic cancer. Our data revealed genes that were selectively essential in this oncogenic driver–limited cell state, meaning that their loss enhanced cellular susceptibility to direct KRASG12C inhibition. We termed such genes “collateral dependencies” (CDs) and identified two classes of combination therapies targeting these CDs that increased KRASG12C target engagement or blocked residual survival pathways in cells and in vivo. From our findings, we propose a framework for assessing genetic dependencies induced by oncogene inhibition.
A widely distributed metalloenzyme class enables gut microbial metabolism of host- and diet-derived catechols

Catechol dehydroxylation is a central chemical transformation in the gut microbial metabolism of plant- and host-derived small molecules. However, the molecular basis for this transformation and its distribution among gut microorganisms are poorly understood. Here, we characterize a molybdenum-dependent enzyme from the prevalent human gut bacterium Eggerthella lenta that specifically dehydroxylates catecholamine neurotransmitters available in the human gut. Our findings suggest that this activity enables E. lenta to use dopamine as an electron acceptor under anaerobic conditions. In addition to characterizing catecholamine dehydroxylation, we identify candidate molybdenum-dependent enzymes that dehydroxylate additional host-and plant-derived small molecules. These gut bacterial catechol dehydroxylases are specific in their substrate scope and transcriptional regulation and belong to a distinct group of largely uncharacterized molybdenum-dependent enzymes that likely mediate both primary and secondary metabolism in multiple environments. Finally, we observe catechol dehydroxylation in the gut microbiotas of diverse mammals, suggesting that this chemistry is present in habitats beyond the human gut. Altogether, our data reveal the molecular basis of catechol dehydroxylation among gut bacteria and suggest that the chemical strategies that mediate metabolism and interactions in the human gut are relevant to a broad range of species and habitats.
Peer Interventions for Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder in School Settings: Introduction to the Special Issue

Federal legislation protects the rights of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to be educated alongside typically developing peers in inclusive settings. The majority of students with ASD ...
On space-spectrum uncertainty analysis for spectrally programmable cameras

We introduce and analyze the concept of space-spectrum uncertainty for certain commonly used designs of spectrally programmable cameras. Our key finding states that, it is not possible to simultaneously acquire high-resolution spatial images while programming the spectrum at high resolution. This phenomenon arises due to a Fourier relationship between the aperture used for resolving spectrum and its corresponding diffraction blur in the spatial image. We show that the product of spatial and spectral standard deviations is lower bounded by λ4π ν 0 femto square-meters, where ν0 is the density of groves in the diffraction grating and λ is the wavelength of light. Experiments with a lab prototype validate our findings and its implication for spectral programming.
The Use of Lactose as an Alternative Coating for Nanoparticles.

Abstract Nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery has long utilized PEGylation as a mechanism for reducing uptake by the reticuloendothelial system and extending circulation lifetimes. However, studies over the past 2 decades have established that immune responses to PEG can promote clearance on repeat injection and elicit life-threatening anaphylactic reactions in some patients. As a potential alternative to PEGylation, we explored the ability of utilizing lactose, a naturally occurring sugar that is common on the surface of blood cells, as a coating for lipoplexes. Our data indicate that lactose imparts similar effects as PEG in terms of reducing leukocyte uptake, extending circulation half-life, and enhancing delivery to the tumor and other organs. In addition, measurements of blood cytokine levels after repeat injection indicate that reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IFN-γ, TNFα) are elicited in response to lipoplexes coated with lactose as compared to PEG. These data indicate that a lactose coating on lipoplexes results in slightly improved tumor accumulation as compared to PEGylated formulations while eliciting a reduced innate immune response.
Immunomodulation in the front, bone-binding in the back

Zoledronic acid–tethered nanoparticles bind remodeling bone, polarize macrophages, and reduce osteoclasts to prevent breast cancer–induced osteolysis.
Utilization of a Peritoneal Interposition Flap to Prevent Symptomatic Lymphoceles After Robotic Radical Prostatectomy and Bilateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection.

Introduction: The peritoneal interposition flap (PIF) has been shown to prevent postoperative symptomatic lymphocele (SL) formation after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). The PIF inhibits the mobilized bladder from resealing over its lateral dissection planes, which overly the lymphadenectomy beds. This creates a window for lymphatic fluid to drain into the peritoneal cavity where it can be absorbed. Herein, we externally validate its utility in preventing postoperative SL formation and assess its effect on postoperative urinary function. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all consecutive patients who underwent RARP with bilateral PLND by a single surgeon between July 2016 and September 2019. All patients who underwent surgery before August 8, 2018 did not receive the PIF, while those who underwent surgery after August 8, 2018 received the PIF. Our PIF technique involves fixing the peritoneum overlying the lateral dome of the bladder to the ipsilateral, anterior-lateral surface of the bladder using a barbed absorbable suture. Continuous and categorical variables were compared between the two groups using independent t-tests and chi-square tests, respectively; p 2) between both groups (p = 0.800). With regard to urinary function, there was no difference in the rate of 3-month postoperative continence (p = 0.624), preoperative American Urological Association Symptom Score (AUASS) (p = 0.898), and postoperative AUASS (p = 0.470) between both groups. Conclusion: Utilization of a PIF may minimize the risk of SL formation after RARP and PLND without increasing the risk of non-SL-related complications. This technique does not adversely affect postoperative urinary function.
9.22 – Photopolymerizable Systems

Photopolymerization has become a common technology for a wide variety of applications including coatings and adhesives and recently for biotechnology. The fast polymerization kinetics under physiological conditions, the chemical versatility, and the spatial and temporal control has led to photopolymerization becoming an important processing method for the fabrication of biomaterials. In this chapter, we discuss the basics of photopolymerization reactions, specific polymer systems that are photopolymerized, the characterization of photopolymerization reactions, some of the important parameters that influence photopolymerization, and general applications with special emphasis on dental materials, tissue engineering, and drug delivery.
Cumulative skin dose estimates for the medical diagnostic X-ray workers in Jiangsu province from 1950 to 2011

Objective To provide the dose information from the epidemiological cohort established in 1980 in Jiangsu province using normalized workload method,and to estimate cumulative skin dose to medical diagnostic X-ray workers based on personal dosimeter were worn as members of the epidemiologicat cohort.Methods Data for fixed cohort members of X-ray exposure history from 1950 to June 2011 were collected.According to correction factors such as examination types and protection conditions,exposure doses from 1950s to June of 2011 were estimated through a Visual Basic language program.Results Average annual doses vary significantly between during different time periods:10.1 (6.1-12.3) mGy/year during 1950-1965,3.5 (2.1-5.4) mGy/year for 1966-1984 and 1.3 (0.9-1.9) mGy/year during 1985-2011,respectively.Conclusions Average annual doses received by 3 961 medical diagnostic X-ray workers during different time periods in this investigation are nearly consistent with the results reported previously and show a roughly similar trend. Key words: X-ray exposure history; Dose estimate; Annual dose