cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Second-Generation Covalent TMP-Tag for Live Cell Imaging

Chemical tags are now viable alternatives to fluorescent proteins for labeling proteins in living cells with organic fluorophores that have improved brightness and other specialized properties. Recently, we successfully rendered our TMP-tag covalent with a proximity-induced reaction between the protein tag and the ligand-fluorophore label. This initial design, however, suffered from slow in vitro labeling kinetics and limited live cell protein labeling. Thus, here we report a second-generation covalent TMP-tag that has a fast labeling half-life and can readily label a variety of intracellular proteins in living cells. Specifically, we designed an acrylamide-trimethoprim-fluorophore (A-TMP-fluorophore v2.0) electrophile with an optimized linker for fast reaction with a cysteine (Cys) nucleophile engineered just outside the TMP-binding pocket of Escherichia coli dihydrofolate reductase (eDHFR) and developed an efficient chemical synthesis for routine production of a variety of A-TMP-probe v2.0 labels. We th...
Ventilation, gas exchange and blood gases in the snake, Pituophis melanoleucus

Oxygen consumption of Pituophis melanoleucus was about 30-50% of values predicted for snakes of similar body mass. Following a rise in body temperature there were transient increases in CO2 elimination and the respiratory exchange ratio for about 6 hours. Lowering body temperature produced transient decreases in CO2 elimination and the respiratory exchange ratio for about 24 hours. Respiratory exchange ratios measured up to 6 days following these transients were found to be significantly higher at higher temperatures. From 20 to 30 degrees C arterial pH declined 0.157 unit, and there was a significant decline in blood CO2 of 1.3 mM which is consistent with the direction of the transients in CO2 elimination. This fall in CO2 at higher temperatures probably results from increased levels of plasma fixed acid (e.g., lactate). Minute ventilation and breathing frequency increased with body temperature while tidal volume remained nearly constant at 29 ml/kg. Breathing was regular, with each breath followed by an inspiratory pause. Air convection requirement declined from about 61 ml air/ml O2 at 15 degrees C to 36 ml air/ml O2 at 30 degrees C. Blood convection requirement remained constant at about 44.6 ml blood/ml O2 at 20 degrees C and 30 degrees C with the result that ventilation/perfusion declined from approximately 1.13 to 0.76. In Pituophis, mechanisms of acid-base regulation and adjustments in gas transfer with temperature do not differ fundamentally from those of other air-breathing ectotherms. However, snakes utilize tidal volumes which are 2 to 2.5 times larger than other reptiles and have air convection requirements which exceed other reptiles by about 50%.
Disruption of the interface between the pleckstrin homology (PH) and kinase domains of Akt protein is sufficient for hydrophobic motif site phosphorylation in the absence of mTORC2.

The pro-survival kinase Akt requires phosphorylation at two conserved residues, the activation loop site (Thr-308) and the hydrophobic motif site (Ser-473), for maximal activation. Previous reports indicate that mTORC2 is necessary for phosphorylation of the hydrophobic motif and that this site is not phosphorylated in cells lacking components of the mTORC2 complex, such as Sin1. Here we show that Akt can be phosphorylated at the hydrophobic motif site (Ser-473) in the absence of mTORC2. First, increasing the levels of PIP3 in Sin1−/− MEFs by (i) expression of a constitutively active PI3K or (ii) relief of a negative feedback loop on PI3K by prolonged inhibition of mTORC1 or S6K is sufficient to rescue hydrophobic motif phosphorylation of Akt. The resulting accumulation of PIP3 at the plasma membrane results in Ser-473 phosphorylation. Second, constructs of Akt in which the PH domain is constitutively disengaged from the kinase domain are phosphorylated at the hydrophobic motif site in Sin1−/− MEFs; both myristoylated-Akt and Akt lacking the PH domain are phosphorylated at Ser-473. Thus, disruption of the interface between the PH and kinase domains of Akt bypasses the requirement for mTORC2. In summary, these data support a model in which Akt can be phosphorylated at Ser-473 and activated in the absence of mTORC2 by mechanisms that depend on removal of the PH domain from the kinase domain.
Graft histology characteristics in long-term survivors of pediatric liver transplantation

The factors that influence the long-term histological outcome of transplanted liver allografts in children are not yet fully understood, and the role of surveillance biopsies in patients with normal graft function remains controversial. The aims of this study were to describe the long-term graft histology of pediatric liver transplant recipients surviving at least 3 years and to analyze factors correlating with long-term histological outcome. Histological slides of 63 long-term liver transplant recipients were assessed for inflammation and fibrosis. The histological findings were correlated with clinical, biochemical, serological, and radiological findings. A significant proportion of biopsies from these patients showed some type of histological abnormalities, with fibrosis being observed in 61 (97%) patients. Duration of transplantation of >6 years and > or =grade 2 inflammation were significantly associated with advanced fibrosis. We could not identify any correlation between > or =stage 3 fibrosis and donor age, cold and warm ischemia time, history of de novo autoimmune hepatitis, hepatic artery thrombosis, chronic rejection, or alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase values. In conclusion, liver fibrosis appears to be a common finding in long-term pediatric liver transplant survivors. The cause of this fibrosis is uncertain, and normal alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase levels do not exclude the presence of significant fibrosis.
Lipid composition of subcellular fractions from rat testis

Abstract 1. 1. Golgi apparatus, residual body and microsomal fractions were isolated from rat testes. Lipid vesicles were subsequently isolated from residual body fractions. The lipid distribution and fatty acid composition of total lipids and individual phospholipids were determined and compared to whole testis. 2. 2. The lipid/protein ratios of the fractions were: whole testis, 0.4; Golgi apparatus, 1.26; residual bodies, 0.60; microsomes, 0.63; and lipid vesicles, > 19. Phospholipids, as percent of total lipids, decreased in the order microsomes > whole testis > Golgi apparatus > residual bodies > lipid vesicles. Neutral lipids followed the inverse order. With the exception of lipid vesicles, which were not assayed, whole testis and all fractions contained nearly equal levels of a glycolipid tentatively identified as an aminoglycolipid containing galactose and hexosamine as major carbohydrates. 3. 3. The major phospholipids encountered in all fractions were the choline, ethanolamine, inositol and serine phosphatides and sphingomyelin. The distribution of these phospholipids was nearly the same comparing whole testis to the isolated fractions. In addition to these phospholipids, whole testis and residual bodies contained cardiolipin. Triglycerides, free fatty acids and cholesterol were present as major constituents in the neutral lipids from all fractions. 4. 4. Total lipids and all polar lipids except sphingolipids contained 18:1, 20:4, and 22:5 acids as the major unsaturated fatty acids and 16:0 and 18:0 as major saturated acids. Sphingolipids were the most highly saturated lipids encountered.
Finite axisymmetric deformations of elastic membranes

Abstract We consider the axisymmetric deformations due to edge tractions and internal pressure of an elastic membrane composed of a homogeneous, incompressible and isotropic material possessing a strain-energy function. For a given initial thickness the undeformed membrane is determined in terms of the deformed configuration. The solution given to this inverse problem is exact and valid for a general strain-energy function. For the particular case of a neo-Hookean material an explicit solution is given. The theory is illustrated by its application to the specific example of the deformation of a membrane, under edge tractions, into a truncated conic surface.
Relation of agammaglobulinemia sera to rheumatoid agglutination reactions.

In an effort to elucidate the nature of the polyarthritis and other systemic Lesions occurring during the course of hypogammaglobulinemia, sera from patients with hypogammaglobulinemia were tested by serveral procedures for demonstration of the rheumatoid factor or its inhibitor. Neither agglutinator of inhibitor was present in the twelve patients studied, six of whom had arthritis. A possible relationship between the arthritis of agammaglobulinemia and rheumatoid arthritis culd not be confirmed. However, for reasons described, such a relationship could not be excluded. Con le objectivo de elucidar le natura del polyarthritis e del altere lesiones systemic que occurre in le curso de hypogammaglobulinemia, seros ab patientes con hypogammaglobulinemia esseva testate per varie technicas pro le presentia del factor rheumatoide o de su inhibitor. In le dece-duo patientes studiate, incluse sex con arthritis, ni agglutinator ni inhibitor esseva presente. Le existentia possibile de un relation inter le arthritis de agammaglobulinemia e arthritis rheumatoide non poteva esser confirmate. Tamen, pro rationes describite, excluder le existentia de ille relation esseva etiam impossibile.
Preference for an ion-neutral complex-mediated pathway over a five-membered-ring H shift in the isomerization of CH3O+HCH2CH2· to CH3CH2CH2OH+· by Ab initio theory

Ab initio theory is used to explore whether the path from CH3OH+CH2CH 2 · (1) to CH3CH2CH2OH+· (5) goes by way of a conventional 1,4-H shift to form ·CH2OH+CH2CH3 (2), or via the ion-neutral complex-mediated H transfer [CH3OHCH2=CH2]+· (3) → [CH3CH 2 · CH2OH+] (4). Five levels of theory all place the highest energy point in the complex-mediated reaction 3 → 4 slightly below that for the 1,4-H shift 1 → 2, but both routes appear energetically feasible near the threshold for the dissociation of 1 to CH3CH2 + CH2=OH+. Thus, 1 may take both paths to 5. It is concluded that when both a conventional and a complex-mediated pathway seem plausible in a given system, the latter should be considered to be as likely as the former. Ab initio descriptions of other species involved in the isomerization of 1 to 2 also are presented.
Device physics and optimization of conductivity-modulated power MOSFETs

The operation of a novel power MOSFET device that has the capability of controlled conductivity modulation during its on-state operation to reduce its on-resistance is briefly described. CMDMOS (conductivity-modulated double-diffused MOS) devices have been fabricated and characterized along with DMOS devices with various geometries on wafers with various epitaxial layer thicknesses. The on-resistance of the CMDMOS devices was significantly reduced with the introduction of modest (250- mu A) injector currents, which represent a very small fraction of the total current. The current-handling capability of the device increased by about 50%, giving a change in drain current about 10 times the injector current at 2.0-V drain bias. In general, the specific on-resistance of the CMDMOS devices was about half of that of comparable DMOS devices. The geometry and structure of the CMDMOS device were optimized by developing a simple analytical model for the on-resistance. In the analysis, the injector hole concentration and the extent of conductivity modulation in the drift region can be obtained as functions of the injector current, the drain current, and the spacing between the injector and the DMOS channel. The on-resistance is then derived by summing the voltage drops across the MOS channel region, the modulated region, and the drift region. This analysis leads to optimizing the depth of the injector, the separation of the injector from the DMOS channel, and the amount of injector current. The result is a power device that provides substantial flexibility in trading off on-resistance and switching speed. >
Bionomics of Lomamyia hamata (Neuroptera: Berothidae)

Heteromorphic larvae of the beaded lacewing, Lomamyia hamata (Walker), are obligate predators of the eastern subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes (Kollar). First and third instars are campodeiform, highly mobile, and will feed on freezer-stored or live termites. Second instars are scarabaeiform, sessile, and do not feed. Under laboratory conditions of 25°C, 80% RH, and 16:8 (L:D) photoperiod, development from egg to adult averaged 40.5 d. Field-collected females laid an average of 13.7 fertile egg clutches with 13.4 eggs per clutch; mean percentage of eclosion was <90%. In northwestern South Carolina, this species is probably bivoltine, possibly trivoltine, and overwinters as a prepupa; pupation occurs in the spring, starting in March.
Approximate analytical solution for one-dimensional tissue freezing around cylindrical cryoprobes

An approximate analytical solution for the temperature distribution and interface motion is determined for the freezing of blood-perfused tissue around a cylindrical cryoprobe. The solution is based on an improved quasi-steady model in which assumed temperature profiles in the frozen and unfrozen tissue are used to determine the interface motion. The approximate solution satisfies all temperature boundary conditions as well as the transient heat equations at the interface. Due to blood perfusion in the unfrozen tissue, a steady state is reached where the interface becomes stationary. The solution converges to the exact steady state interface location. Improvement over the quasi-steady solution and the accuracy of the present theory are verified by comparison with numerical solutions for the limiting case of zero blood perfusion and metabolic heat production. Results show that a typical quasi-steady error of 73% is reduced to 8% using the present theory. Parametric charts are presented to evaluate the effect of the governing parameters on interface location.
The stereochemical course of thiophosphoryl group transfer catalyzed by adenosine kinase.

Adenosine kinase was partially purified form beef liver and used to catalyze the conversion of (γR)ATPγS,γ18O and adenosine to ADP and AMPαS,α18O. The configuration at phosphorus in AMPαS,α18O was established by subjecting it to stereospecific phosphorylation to (αS)ATPαS,α18O and showing that only the nonbridging oxygen bonded to the α-P was enriched with 18O. The configuration at α-P in AMPαS,α18O was therefore S, and the transfer of the [18O]thiophosphoryl group occurred with inversion of configuration.
A brain-liver circuit regulates glucose homeostasis

Increased glucose production (GP) is the major determinant of fasting hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus. Previous studies suggested that lipid metabolism within specific hypothalamic nuclei is a biochemical sensor for nutrient availability that exerts negative feedback on GP. Here we show that central inhibition of fat oxidation leads to selective activation of brainstem neurons within the nucleus of the solitary tract and the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus and markedly decreases liver gluconeogenesis, expression of gluconeogenic enzymes, and GP. These effects require central activation of ATP-dependent potassium channels (K(ATP)) and descending fibers within the hepatic branch of the vagus nerve. Thus, hypothalamic lipid sensing potently modulates glucose metabolism via neural circuitry that requires the activation of K(ATP) and selective brainstem neurons and intact vagal input to the liver. This crosstalk between brain and liver couples central nutrient sensing to peripheral nutrient production and its disruption may lead to hyperglycemia.
RFLP mapping and race specificity of bacterial blight resistance genes (QTLs) in rice.

By using a set of 315 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) from the cross Lemont (japonica) × Teqing (indica) and a complete linkage map with 186 well distributed RFLP markers and 3 morphological markers, a major gene (Xa4) and 10 QTLs and 9 pairs of epistkis loci conferring horizontal resistance to three strains of Xanthomonas orym pv oryza (Xoo) were mapped. The Teqing allele at Xa4 on chromosome 11 acts as a dominant resistant gene against pathogen race CR4 and CX08, but as an additive QTL with a significantly (47%) reduced effect against the virulent strain, CR6. The major gene Xa4 exhibited stronger degree of race specificity. Most QTLs showed consistent levels of resistance against all three Xoo strains. The results suggest that a high level durable resistance to Xoo may be achieved by cumulative effects of multiple QTL.
Control of an Infestation of a Fish Leech (Myzobdella lugubris) on Catfishes in Tanks and Earthen Ponds

Abstract An infestation of a fish leech, Myzobdella lugubris, was discovered in a brood pond containing female channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus and mixed-sex blue catfish I. furcatus. Three chemical treatments -trichlorfon (0.5 mg/L), formalin (150 mg/L), and sodium chloride (1%)-were compared for their effectiveness in the control of this parasite on individual fish held in tanks at 21–23°C. Trichlorfon demonstrated the greatest leech reduction (34.4%), followed in effectiveness by formalin (28.9%) and salt (17.2%). In further experiments at 26–28°C, 0.5 mg trichlorfon/L achieved 91% reduction of attached leeches in 6-h tank treatments and 100% reduction after 48 h in small ponds. Two applications of 0.5 mg trichlorfon/L 21 d apart were required for complete leech elimination in the brood-fish pond. The initial application resulted in 100% reduction of attached leeches on fish sampled 8 d afterward. Reinfestation occurred between 8 and 21 d after treatment, as indicated by the presence of small leeche...
CryoEM Structure at 9 Å Resolution of an Adenovirus Vector Targeted to Hematopoietic Cells

We report a sub-nanometer resolution cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) structural analysis of an adenoviral vector, Ad35F, comprised of an adenovirus type 5 (Ad5) capsid pseudo-typed with an Ad35 fiber. This vector transduces human hematopoietic cells via association of its fiber protein with CD46, a member of the complement regulatory protein family. Major advances in data acquisition and image processing allowed a significant improvement in resolution compared to earlier structures. Analysis of the cryoEM density was enhanced by docking the crystal structures of both the hexon and penton base capsid proteins. CryoEM density was observed for hexon residues missing from the crystal structure that include hypervariable regions and the epitope of a neutralizing monoclonal antibody. Within the penton base, density was observed for the integrin-binding RGD loop missing from the crystal structure and for the flexible β ribbon of the variable loop on the side of the penton base. The Ad35 fiber is flexible, consistent with the sequence insert in the third β-spiral repeat. On the inner capsid surface density is revealed at the base of the hexons and below the penton base. A revised model is presented for protein IX within the virion. Well-defined density was assigned to a conserved domain in the N terminus of protein IX required for incorporation into the virion. For the C-terminal domain of protein IX two alternate conformations are proposed, either binding on the capsid surface or extending away from the capsid. This model is consistent with the tolerance of the C terminus for inserted ligands and its potential use in vector retargeting. This structural study increases our knowledge of Ad capsid assembly, antibody neutralization mechanisms, and may aid further improvements in gene delivery to important human cell types.
Developing Tomorrow's Academic Radiologists: A 3-Month Residency Elective in Education

Abstract Rationale and Objectives The shortage of academic radiologists reveals an urgent need to attract more residents into academic careers. A great deal of attention has been focused on research, but few programmatic initiatives have addressed the development of the next generation of radiology educators. The purpose of this study was to develop and test a new 3-month residency elective in education. Materials and Methods A large academic radiology department developed a 3-month education elective, during which two residents would be relieved of clinical duties and focus full-time on tasks related to their development as educators, including the completion of a major educational project. Results Two residents, in their 3rd year and 4th year of residency, respectively, proposed to collaborate in developing a Web-delivered tutorial for the department's senior medical student clerkship. At the end of 3 months, their radiology tutorial was introduced. In its 1st month, it received a mean rating of 4.3 on a five-point scale. The residents stated that the elective had enabled them to develop important skills in instructional technology, put into practice their enhanced understanding of learning psychology, and substantially strengthened their overall commitment to academic careers. Conclusion It is vital that residency programs focus on developing the next generation of radiology educators. This ongoing education elective represents one successful model.
Optimal mixed strategies in a dynamic game

In this paper we treat a specific two-person, zero-sum, dynamic game of the type x_{k + 1} = f(x_{k}, u_{k}, w_{k}) . The optimal solutions for this game (i.e, a saddle point) have to be sought in the class of mixed (synonymously, randomized) strategies. For this particular game a theory of optimality of mixed strategies is developed and a hierarchy of problems of increasing generality, within this particular game, is solved. The specific game considered is one of the most classic of the problems in game theory. A gun is firing at a moving object. How best should the object move in order to reach a certain destination? Conversely, where should the gun fire in order to prevent the object from reaching its destination? This problem occurs in different guises in a variety of situations. The moving object could, for example, be a ship or a tank. The optimal strategies of the two palyers have perforce to be mixed.
Study of radiation induced resistance mechanisms in GaAs MESFET and TLM structures

The effects of λ-ray irradiation on GaAs MESFETs were studied. The λ-ray irradiation was generated from a 60Co source. DC characteristics of the MESFETs were used to monitor the effects of radiation, which included source–drain I–V characteristics, gate leakage current, saturation drain current, sub-threshold gate leakage current, and sheet resistance. These changes of device characteristics provided us a useful method to determine the radiation damage coefficient.
Schools as Knowledge Work Organizations: Perspectives and Implications from the New Management Literature.

The authors argue that the knowledge work metaphor is the most powerful image of schools for understanding reform. Using themes from the new management literature, such as shared decision making, collegiality, innovation, and experimentation, as additional guides for school improvement, the authors develop a case for systemic reform based on the professionalization of teaching and the integration of theory, research, and practice, Finally, transformational leadership is presented as the key to facilitating systemic reform.
Parasitics-Aware Design of Symmetric and Asymmetric Gate-Workfunction FinFET SRAMs

Multigate FET technology is the most viable successor to planar CMOS technology at the 22-nm node and beyond. Prior research on multigate SRAMs is generally confined to the optimization of DC targets. However, on account of the nonplanar nature of multigate FETs, it is highly questionable whether multigate SRAM DC metrics can guide bitcell designers, as parasitic capacitances for two topologically equivalent bitcells can be very different - due to various issues such as fin pitches - resulting in widely varying transient characteristics. In this paper, we evaluate several known symmetric gate-workfunction (Symm- ΦG) 6T FinFET SRAMs and, for the first time, asymmetric gate-workfunction (Asymm-ΦG) 6T FinFET SRAMs, head-to-head in a 22-nm silicon-on-insulator process, from the perspective of transient behavior, using a unified 3-D/mixed-mode 2-D TCAD technology-circuit co-design methodology. We accomplish the latter by capturing bitcell parasitics accurately through transport analysis-based 3-D TCAD capacitance extractions that leverage automated layout-3-D TCAD structure synthesis algorithms. Mixed-mode transient device simulations (incorporating back-annotated 3-D TCAD parasitics) indicate that a design guided by DC metrics alone can lead to erroneous conclusions and suboptimal bitcell choices. Overall, from the perspective of area and performance, in single- ΦG processes, shorted-gate (or vanilla) configurations are superior to topologies employing independent-gate configurations, even though the latter often have better DC metrics. In a larger design space encompassing dual/Asymm-ΦG devices, Asymm-ΦG FinFET SRAMs are very competitive with respect to vanilla topologies in terms of DC metrics and have better dynamic write-ability, even at low VDD.
After Neo-liberal Globalization: The Great Transformation of Turkey

Pursuing a macro sociological approach, this contribution examines the great transformation of Turkey around rising market hegemony and increasing impact of global forces. Throughout the paper, I show how the new orientation is consolidating the power of globalist classes, creating conspicuous consumption as a marker of class distinctions, and prioritizing global networks over domestic structures at the expense of sustaining domestic inequalities in Turkey.
Essential role for the alpha 1 chain of type VIII collagen in zebrafish notochord formation

Several zebrafish mutants identified in large-scale forward genetic screens exhibit notochord distortion. We now report the cloning and further characterization of one such mutant, gulliver(m208) (gul(m208)). The notochord defect in gul(m208) mutants is exacerbated under conditions of copper depletion or lysyl oxidase cuproenzyme inhibition that are without a notochord effect on wild-type embryos. The gul(m208) phenotype results from a missense mutation in the gene encoding Col8a1, a lysyl oxidase substrate, and morpholino knockdown of col8a1 recapitulates the notochord distortion observed in gul(m208) mutants. Of interest, the amino acid mutated in gul(m208) Col8a1 is highly conserved, and the equivalent substitution in a closely related human protein, COL10A1, causes Schmid metaphyseal chondrodysplasia. Taken together, the data identify a new protein essential for notochord morphogenesis, extend our understanding of gene-nutrient interactions in early development, and suggest that human mutations in COL8A1 may cause structural birth defects.
SU-E-T-888: Dosimetric Evaluation of VMAT Techniques in Lung Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy

Purpose: Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) is introduced recently as a new lung stereotactic body radiotherapy(SBRT)treatment modality. Because of its shorter delivery time, it reduces the possibility of target misalignment due to patient motion. The dose distributions of VMAT plans are quite different from standard 3D therapy. This study quantitatively evaluates the VMAT plans. Methods: Fifteen lungcancer patients previously treated with 3D or VMAT SBRT were randomly selected. VMAT plans are generated using normal and flattening‐filter‐free (FFF‐VMAT) beams. All plans used the same objectives with 5000 cGy to cover 95% PTV. Two dynamic arcs were utilized in each VMAT plan. The couch was set at ± 5 degrees to the straight position for the two non‐coplanar arcs. SmartArc was used for VMAT planning. The conformity index (CI), which is the ratio of the total volume receiving at least the prescription dose to the target volume receiving at least the prescription dose and the gradient index (GI) which is the ratio of the volume of 50% of the prescription isodose to the volume of the prescription isodose were compared. The dosimetric comparison also includes the V20 (percentage normal lung volume receiving at least 20 Gy) and V5. Results: The average and one standard deviation of CI for the 3D, coplanar, non‐coplanar VMAT and FFF‐VMAT plans was 1.52±0.33, 1.29±0.21, 1.28±0.18 and 1.28±0.19 respectively. GI: 8.41±3.78, 7.42±2.98, 7.33±3.00, 7.87±2.79, indicating sharper dose fall‐off in normal tissues in VMAT plans. V20: 7.8±2.9%, 6.9±2.6%, 7.0± 2.6%, 6.8± 2.3%; V5: 24.8±8.7%, 24.1± 6.5%, 23.7± 6.6%, 22.5±6.5%; PTV mean dose: 5348± 118, 5294±125, 5291±117 and 5279±97 cGy. VMAT plans tend to use more MUs Conclusions: VMAT plans demonstrated better conformity to target, sharper dose fall‐off in normal tissues and smaller V20 and V5 than the 3D plans for lungSBRT while maintaining mean target dose.
Three-dimensional heat and material flow during friction stir welding of mild steel

Three-dimensional viscoplastic flow and heat transfer during friction stir welding of mild steel were investigated both experimentally and theoretically. The equations of conservation of mass, momentum and energy were solved in three dimensions using spatially variable thermo-physical properties and a methodology adapted from well-established previous work in fusion welding. Non-Newtonian viscosity for the metal flow was calculated considering temperature and strain rate dependent flow stress. The computed results showed significant viscoplastic flow near the tool surface, and convection was found to be the primary mechanism of heat transfer in this region. Also, the results demonstrated the strong three-dimensional nature of the transport of heat and mass, reaffirming the need for three-dimensional calculations. The streamlines of plastic flow indicated that material was transported mainly along the retreating side. The computed temperatures were in good agreement with the corresponding experimentally determined values.
Ordered probabilistic metric spaces

Probabilistic quasi-metric spaces are introduced and used to define ordered probabilistic metric spaces. The latter spaces arise naturally in the study of probability and statistics; they closely resemble the uniform ordered spaces of L. Nachbin. A procedure is described for constructing ordered probabilistic metric spaces from quasi-simple spaces, and a completions theory is developed simultaneously for probabilistic quasi-metric spaces and ordered probabilistic metric spaces.
Is cardiac output the key to vasovagal syncope? A reevaluation of putative pathophysiology

“Undoubtedly the main cause of the fall in blood pressure in these attacks, and the enfeeblement loss of pulse, is independent of the vagus, and lies in the blood vessels.... Attacks in which the blood pressure sinks without a lowering of the pulse rate, and the patient verges on unconsciousness whenever the pressure reaches certain low levels, have been encountered. Thus, the cause of the syncope is mainly vasomotor and not vagal; but the vagus adds impressively to the clinical picture by inducing conspicuous slowing of the heart and gastric manifestations”.
Nominal GDP futures targeting

Abstract Central banks have recently done a poor job of stabilizing the path of nominal expenditures. The adverse demand shock of 2008–2009 led to a severe recession in the United States and Europe. Monetary policy could be greatly improved with a regime of “targeting the forecast,” or setting policy so that the expected growth in nominal GDP is equal to the central bank's target growth rate. This goal could be accomplished by setting up a nominal GDP prediction market and then adjusting the monetary base to stabilize nominal GDP futures prices. The market, not central banks, would set the level of the monetary base and short-term interest rates under this sort of policy regime. Modest adjustments in such a regime could address many previous criticisms of futures targeting.
Scattering of spherical elastic waves from a small‐volume spherical inclusion

SUMMARY A theory is presented for the scattering of spherical elastic waves by a small, spherical inclusion. The domain of validity of the treatment is ka′« 1, where k is the wavenumber and a′ is the radius of the spherical inclusion. The treatment is an extension of that of Gritto, Korneev & Johnson (1995), who derived exact expressions for the scattered wavefield from a plane P wave incident on a spherical inclusion in the low-frequency limit. Since neither treatment assumes small perturbations, they are also valid for an arbitrary material property contrast between the spherical inclusion and the background medium. For spherical elastic wavefields propagating through an infinite, homogeneous medium and interacting with a single small, spherical inclusion, the scattered wavefield is obtained directly as a sum of spheroidal motions of degrees 0, 1 and 2 in scatterer-centred coordinates, with nine independent amplitude coefficients which depend on the contrast in material properties and are proportional to the volume of the inclusion. If the inclusion is embedded in a stratified and bounded medium, then these scattering coefficients provide a valid local description of the scattered wavefield in the vicinity of the inclusion. Exploiting this fact, source equivalents in the frequency domain (six moment tensor elements and three single forces) are derived from the scattering coefficients. To first order in material property contrasts, equivalence is established between these source equivalents and the coupled mode theory developed for surface waves and long-period body waves using perturbation theory.
Inhibiting an Epoxide Hydrolase Virulence Factor from Pseudomonas aeruginosa Protects CFTR

Opportunistic pathogens exploit diverse strategies to sabotage host defenses. Pseudomonas aeruginosa secretes the CFTR inhibitory factor Cif and thus triggers loss of CFTR, an ion channel required for airway mucociliary defense. However, the mechanism of action of Cif has remained unclear. It catalyzes epoxide hydrolysis, but there is no known role for natural epoxides in CFTR regulation. It was demonstrated that the hydrolase activity of Cif is strictly required for its effects on CFTR. A small-molecule inhibitor that protects this key component of the mucociliary defense system was also uncovered. These results provide a basis for targeting the distinctive virulence chemistry of Cif and suggest an unanticipated role of physiological epoxides in intracellular protein trafficking.
Contingency Management and Rate of Classroom Productivity

The baserate of producing academic material was ascertained for 6 boys in a remedial classroom. Permitting the students to leave the classroom and engage in favored activities contingent upon completion of a specified amount of work resulted in increased rates as compared to baseline conditions. Using a similar experimental design the rate of productivity of a group of 6 girls was also associated with contingency management.
Performance improved during system fault of angle controlled STATCOM by current control

Voltage source converter (VSC) based STATCOM (synchronous static compensator) is used for voltage regulation in transmission and distribution systems. Over-currents and trips of the STATCOM during and after system faults or bus voltage harmonic distortions may occur in STATCOM without PWM control. Selecting proper DC capacitor (Cdc) may keep negative-sequence and harmonic currents low, and as a result, prevent over-currents within the STATCOM. However, the capacitor value depends on the type of voltage distortion. In this paper, we propose and develop a current control strategy for an ldquoangle controlledrdquo STATCOM, to prevent over-currents (and trips) in the VSC during and after system faults and bus voltage distortions. Simulation results are presented for a 48-pulse VSC based plusmn100 MVAR STATCOM connected to a 2-bus power system. Simulation results validate the current control strategy to prevent VSC over-currents and to supply required reactive power under system fault.
The influence of emotion on face processing.

According to the broaden-and-build theory, positive emotions broaden one's thought-action repertoire, which may manifest as a widened attentional scope in cognitive processing. The present study directly tests this hypothesis by examining the influences of induced emotions (positive, neutral and negative) on holistic processing of face (Experiment 1) and face discrimination (Experiment 2). In both experiments, emotions induced with images from the International Affective Picture System significantly interacted with face processing. That is, positive emotions engendered greater holistic face encoding in a composite-face task in Experiment 1 and more accurate face discrimination in Experiment 2, relative to the neutral condition. In contrast, negative emotions impaired holistic face encoding in the composite-face task and reduced face discrimination accuracy. Taken together, these results provide further support for the attentional broadening effect of positive affect by demonstrating that induced positive ...
An azimuthal omni-directional array for multi-target acquisition and tracking

A technique for multi-target acquisition and tracking is presented. The target localization technique requires only the amplitude signal of each antenna, and not the phase. The proposed design can operate over a wide frequency range (20-100 GHz). The array can resolve a large number of targets accurately and is lightweight and relatively small (2 ft in diameter or less). The array has no moving parts, and no expensive RF electronics such as phase shifters and power combiners are needed. The design can be extended to hemispherical arrays for omni-directional half-plane coverage. >
The Viable-but-Nonculturable Condition Is Induced by Copper in Agrobacterium tumefaciens and Rhizobium leguminosarum

Many bacteria respond to changes in environmental conditions by entering the viable-but-nonculturable state. We have determined that copper can induce nutrient-starved Agrobacterium tumefaciens and Rhizobium leguminosarum cells to become viable but nonculturable. This is the first report of a chemical inducer of this condition.
Technostructures and Interorganizational Relations

The article reviews the book “Technostructures and Interorganizational Relations,” by David F. Gillespie and Dennis S. Milett.
Differential gene expression signatures of adult peripheral blood vs cord blood monocyte-derived immature and mature dendritic cells.

Objective Our previous studies have demonstrated differentially expressed genetic signature patterns in adult peripheral blood (APB) monocytes (Mos) vs cord blood (CB) Mos. Materials and Methods In this study, we examined the differential gene expression profiles of APB vs CB immature dendritic cells (iDCs) and mature dendritic cells (mDCs) derived from Mos. Results By utilizing oligonucleotide microarray, significant differential gene expression signature patterns were identified in APB vs CB mDCs, including increased expression of chemokines, cytokine receptors, and cell surface molecules. Additionally, signaling protein genes were significantly overexpressed in APB vs CB mDCs. There was also a significant amplification of expression of transcription factor interferon (IFN) regulatory factors and structure regulatory genes in APB vs CB mDCs. In contrast, there were genes expressed significantly higher in CB vs APB mDCs, including cell-cycle regulators and signaling molecule gene. Conclusion Taken together, these results suggest that specific genetic signatures might be responsible for differential DC differentiation and maturation between APB vs CB, and may provide insight into molecular mechanisms regulating differential immune responses between neonates and adults.
Forward Euler Stability of the Bidomain Model of Cardiac Tissue

The bidomain model describes the anisotropic electrical properties of cardiac tissue. One common numerical technique for solving the bidomain equations is the explicit forward Euler method. In this communication we derive a relationship between the time and space steps that ensures the stability of this numerical method
Enhanced Production of Phospholipase C and Perfringolysin O (Alpha and Theta Toxins) in a Gatifloxacin-Resistant Strain of Clostridium perfringens

Clostridium perfringens-induced gas gangrene is mediated by potent extracellular toxins, especially alpha toxin (a phospholipase C [PLC]) and theta toxin (perfringolysin O [PFO], a thiol-activated cytolysin); and antibiotic-induced suppression of toxin synthesis is an important clinical goal. The production of PLC and PFO by a gatifloxacin-induced, fluoroquinolone-resistant mutant strain of C. perfringens, strain 10G, carrying a stable mutation in DNA gyrase was compared with that of the wild-type (WT) parent strain. Zymography (with sheep red blood cell and egg yolk overlays) and time course analysis [with hydrolysis of egg yolk lecithin and O-(4 nitrophenyl-phosphoryl)choline] demonstrated that strain 10G produced more PLC and PFO than the WT strain. Increased toxin production in strain 10G was not related either to differences in growth characteristics between the wild-type and the mutant strain or to nonsynonymous polymorphisms in PLC, PFO, or their known regulatory proteins. Increased PLC and PFO production by strain 10G was associated with increased cytotoxic activity for HT-29 human adenocarcinoma cells and with increased platelet-neutrophil aggregate formation. Four other gatifloxacin-induced gyrase mutants did not show increased toxin production, suggesting that gatifloxacin resistance was not always associated with increased toxin production in all strains of C. perfringens. This is the first report of increased toxin production in a fluoroquinolone-resistant strain of C. perfringens.
Folate status of gut microbiome affects Caenorhabditis elegans lifespan

In a paper in BMC Biology Virk et al. show that Caenorhabditis elegans lifespan is extended in response to a diet of folate-deficient Escherichia coli. The deficiencies in folate biosynthesis were due to an aroD mutation, or treatment of E. coli with sulfa drugs, which are mimics of the folate precursor para-aminobenzoic acid. This study suggests that pharmacological manipulation of the gut microbiome folate status may be a viable approach to slow animal aging, and raises questions about folate supplementation.
Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy and Small Angle Neutron Scattering Characterization of Nanostructural Features in Irradiated Fe-Cu-Mn Alloys

Radiation embrittlement of nuclear reactor pressure vessel steels results from a high number density of nanometer sized Cu-Mn-Ni rich precipitates (CRPs) and sub-nanometer matrix features, thought to be vacancy-solute cluster complexes (VSC). However, questions exist regarding both the composition of the precipitates and the defect character and composition of the matrix features. We present results of positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) and small angle neutron scattering (SANS) characterization of irradiated and thermally aged Fe-Cu and Fe-Cu-Mn alloys. These complementary techniques provide insight into the composition and character of both types of nanoscale features. The SANS measurements indicate populations of CRPs and VSCs in both alloys. The CRPs are coarser in the Fe-Cu alloy and the number densities of CRP and VSC increase with the addition of Mn. The PAS involved measuring both the positron lifetimes and the Doppler broadened annihilation spectra in the high momentum region to provide elemental sensitivity at the annihilation site. The spectra in Fe-Cu-Mn specimens thermally aged to peak hardness at 450°C and irradiated at 288°C are nearly identical to elemental Cu. Positron lifetime and spectrum measurements in Fe-Cu specimens irradiated at 288°C clearly show the existence of long lifetime (∼500 ps) open volume defects, which also contain Cu. Thus the SANS and PAS provide a self-consistent picture of nanostructures composed of CRPs and VSCs and tend to discount high Fe concentrations in the CRPs.
Simultaneous Surface Approximation and Segmentation of Complex Objects

Deformable models represent a useful approach to approximate objects from collected data points. We propose to augment the basic approaches designed to handle mostly compact objects or objects of known topology.Our approach can fit simultaneously more than one curve or surface to approximate multiple topologically complex objects by using (1) the residual data points, (2) the badly fitting parts of the approximating surface, and (3) appropriate Boolean operations. In 2-D, B-snakes 3] are used to approximate each object (pattern). In 3-D, an analytical surface representation, based on the elements detected, is presented. The global representation of a 3-D object, in terms of elements and their connection, takes the form of B-spline and Bezier surfaces. A Bezier surface is used to connect different elements, and the connecting surface itself conforms to the data points nearby through energy minimization. This way, aG1continuity surface is achieved for the underlying 3-D object.We present experiments on synthetic and real data in 2-D and 3-D. In these experiments, multiple complex patterns and objects with through holes are segmented. The system proceeds automatically without human interaction or any prior knowledge of the topology of the underlying object.
Fascism, Marxism, and the Question of Modern Revolution:

Bitterly anti-Marxist though it was, fascism now appears to have been in some sense revolutionary in its own right, but this raises new questions about the meaning of modern revolution. In a recent essay Roger Griffin, a major authority on fascism, challenges Marxists and non-Marxists to engage in a dialogue that would deepen our understanding of the relationship between the Marxist-communist and fascist revolutionary directions. Although he finds openings within the Marxist tradition, Griffin insists that, if such dialogue is to be possible, the Marxists must give up any a priori claim to the unique validity of the Marxist revolutionary project. However, Griffin’s way of framing the issues proves too limited, first because his understanding fascism as revolutionary is not rich enough, but also because he too often forces his argument to make the fascist revolution seem the archetypal 20th-century revolution. The alternative starts with a deeper understanding of the basis of the fascist claim to be spearh...
Interobserver variability in human papillomavirus test results in cervicovaginal cytologic specimens interpreted as atypical squamous cells.

We studied interobserver variability in the proportions of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive results for atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) and atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H) diagnoses among 5 pathologists from the same laboratory during a 2-year period. These proportions were compared with individual pathologist’s ASCUS/squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL) ratios. Of 1,299 ASCUS diagnoses, 32.3% had HPV testing; 49.4% were HPV+. Positive findings by individual pathologists ranged from 38% to 67% ( P = .057). There was a difference in the proportions of high-risk HPV results for individual pathologists ( P < .001). For the pathologist who diagnosed 38% (23/61) of samples as HPV+, the ASCUS/SIL was 0.58; the pathologist who diagnosed 67% (28/42) as HPV+ had a ratio of 1.02. Of the ASC-H diagnoses, 32.9% were tested for HPV; 63% (46/73) were positive. Although the HPV+ proportion by pathologist ranged from 54% to 83%, no significant differences were identified. Within the same laboratory, interobserver variability exists in the proportions of HPV positivity for ASCUS and ASC-H interpretations.