cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A sparse orthogonal collimator for small animal intensity-modulated radiation therapy. Part II: hardware development and commissioning

Purpose A dose-modulation device for small animal radiotherapy is required to use clinically analogous treatment techniques, which will likely increase the translatability of preclinical research results. Because the clinically used multileaf collimator (MLC) is impractical for miniaturization, we have developed a simpler, better-suited sparse orthogonal collimator (SOC) for delivering small animal intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) using a rectangular aperture optimization (RAO) treatment planning system. Methods The SOC system was modeled in computer-aided design software and fabricated with machined tungsten leaves and three-dimensional (3D) printed leaf housing. A graphical user interface was developed for controlling and calibrating the SOC leaves, which are driven by Arduino-controlled stepper motors. A Winston-Lutz test was performed to assess mechanical alignment, and abutting field and grid dose patterns were created to analyze intra- and intercalibration leaf positioning error. Leaf transmission and penumbra were measured over the full range of gantry angles and leaf positions, respectively. Three SOC test plans were delivered, and film measurements were compared to the intended dose distributions. The differences in maximum, mean, and minimum, as well as pixelwise absolute dose differences, were compared for each structure, and a gamma analysis was performed for the target structures using criteria of 4% dose difference and 0.3 mm distance to agreement. Results The Winston-Lutz test revealed maximum directional offsets between the SOC and primary collimator axes of 0.53 mm at 0° and 0.68 mm over the full 360°. Upper and lower abutting field patterns had maximum dose deviations of 18.8 ± 3.1% and 15.5 ± 2.9%, respectively, and grid patterns showed intra- and intercalibration repeatability of 93% and 91%, respectively. Extremely low midleaf (0.15 ± 0.05%) and interleaf (0.27 ± 0.22%) transmission was measured, with no significant rotational variation. The average penumbra was ~0.8 mm for all leaves at field center, with a range of 0.17 mm for all leaf positions. A highly concave test plan was delivered with a ~ 95% gamma analysis pass rate, and a realistic mouse phantom liver irradiation plan achieved a pass rate of ~98%. A highly complex dose distribution was also created with 551 SOC apertures averaging 2.4 mm in size. Conclusions A sparse orthogonal collimator was developed and commissioned, with promising preliminary dosimetry results. The SOC design, with its limited moving components and high dose-modulation resolution, is ideal for delivering high-quality small animal IMRT with our RAO-based treatment planning system.
Latent transformations neural network for object view synthesis

We propose a fully convolutional conditional generative neural network, the latent transformation neural network, capable of rigid and non-rigid object view synthesis using a lightweight architecture suited for real-time applications and embedded systems. In contrast to existing object view synthesis methods which incorporate conditioning information via concatenation, we introduce a dedicated network component, the conditional transformation unit. This unit is designed to learn the latent space transformations corresponding to specified target views. In addition, a consistency loss term is defined to guide the network toward learning the desired latent space mappings, a task-divided decoder is constructed to refine the quality of generated views of objects, and an adaptive discriminator is introduced to improve the adversarial training process. The generalizability of the proposed methodology is demonstrated on a collection of three diverse tasks: multi-view synthesis on real hand depth images, view synthesis of real and synthetic faces, and the rotation of rigid objects. The proposed model is shown to be comparable with the state-of-the-art methods in structural similarity index measure and $$L_{1}$$ metrics while simultaneously achieving a 24% reduction in the compute time for inference of novel images.
May-Thurner syndrome: History of understanding and need for defining population prevalence

Patients with May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) are at elevated risk of developing an extensive left iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis (DVT; localized blood clot) due to an anatomical variant where the right common iliac artery compresses the left common iliac vein against the lumbar spine. While MTS was initially presumed to be rare when it was first anatomically defined in 1957, case reports of this syndrome have recently become more frequent, perhaps due to improved imaging techniques allowing for enhanced visualization of the iliac veins. Still, the population burden of this condition is unknown, and there is speculation it may be higher than generally perceived. In the present review, we (a) review history of how MTS became recognized, (b) describe practical challenges of studying MTS in population-based settings due to the specialized imaging required for diagnosis, (c) discuss why the contribution of MTS to DVT may be underestimated, (d) describe uncertainty regarding the degree of venous compression which leads to DVT, and (e) outline future research needs. Our goal is to raise awareness of MTS and spark additional research into the epidemiology of this condition, which may be an underappreciated causative venous thromboembolism risk factor.
Si Nano-Crystal Size and Structural Defect Characterization Using Electron Microscopes

Si nano-crystals (NCs) based flash memory is less susceptible to charge loss in tunnel oxide, allowing tunnel oxide reduction from ~100A to ~50A and therefore lower operating voltage and improved cycling endurance performance. Most critical parameters controlling Si NCs performance include size, size distribution and optimal area density (#/cm2). Objective of this study includes developing an image processing method for large population of Si NCs characterization, evaluating and comparing different electron microscope imaging techniques and studying Si NCs structural defects.
Evaluation of the EDTA-Modified Carbapenem Inactivation Method for Detecting Metallo-β-Lactamase-Producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) is increasing. Identification of carbapenemase-producing P. aeruginosa will have therapeutic, epidemiological, and infection control implications. This study evaluated the performance of the EDTA-modified carbapenem inactivation (eCIM) method in tandem with the modified carbapenem inactivation method (mCIM) against a large collection of clinical P. aeruginosa isolates (n=103) to provide clinicians a phenotypic test to not only identify carbapenemase production, but distinguish between metallo-β-lactamase and serine-carbapenemase production in P. aeruginosa. The mCIM test was performed per the Clinical and Laboratory Institute Standards, while the eCIM was conducted as previously described for Enterobacteriaceae. Test performance was compared to the genotypic profile as reference. mCIM testing successfully categorized 91% (112/123) P. aeruginosa isolates as carbapenemases or non-carbapenemase producers with discordant isolates being primarily GES-type producers. To increase the sensitivity of the mCIM for GES-harboring isolates, a double inoculum, prolonged incubation, or both was evaluated, with each modification improving sensitivity to 100% (12/12). Upon eCIM testing, all VIM- (n=27) and NDM- (n=13) tested had 100% concordance to their genotypic profiles while all KPC- (n=8) and GES- (n=12) isolates tested negative as expected in the presence of EDTA. The eCIM failed to identify all IMP- producing (n=22) and SPM-producing (n=14) isolates. KPC, VIM and NDM-producing P. aeruginosa were well defined by the conventional mCIM and eCIM testing methods; additional modifications appear required to differentiate GES-, IMP-, and SPM-producing isolates.
Elimination of HLA antibodies by platelet adsorption.

CONCLUSIONS The presence of HLA antibodies in patient serum or plasma may make antibody identification difficult. These HLA antibodies may mask the presence of clinically significant red blood cell (RBC) alloantibodies. Because platelets strongly express HLA antigens, it is possible to remove HLA antibodies by adsorbing the patient's serum or plasma using a platelet pool. Large numbers of random platelets are pooled to ensure a wide variety of HLA types are present. Elimination of the reactivity after adsorption suggests the presence of HLA antibodies in the patient's serum or plasma. The adsorbed patient sample may then be used to evaluate RBC alloantibodies without HLA antibody interference.
Developmental changes in the accessible chromatin, transcriptome and Ascl1-binding correlate with the loss in Müller Glial regenerative potential

Diseases and damage to the retina lead to losses in retinal neurons and eventual visual impairment. Although the mammalian retina has no inherent regenerative capabilities, fish have robust regeneration from Muller glia (MG). Recently, we have shown that driving expression of Ascl1 in adult mouse MG stimulates neural regeneration. The regeneration observed in the mouse is limited in the variety of neurons that can be derived from MG; Ascl1-expressing MG primarily generate bipolar cells. To better understand the limits of MG-based regeneration in mouse retinas, we used ATAC- and RNA-seq to compare newborn progenitors, immature MG (P8-P12), and mature MG. Our analysis demonstrated developmental differences in gene expression and accessible chromatin between progenitors and MG, primarily in neurogenic genes. Overexpression of Ascl1 is more effective in reprogramming immature MG, than mature MG, consistent with a more progenitor-like epigenetic landscape in the former. We also used ASCL1 ChIPseq to compare the differences in ASCL1 binding in progenitors and reprogrammed MG. We find that bipolar-specific accessible regions are more frequently linked to bHLH motifs and ASCL1 binding. Overall, our analysis indicates a loss of neurogenic gene expression and motif accessibility during glial maturation that may prevent efficient reprogramming.
Phaseolus vulgaris SUT1.1 is a high affinity sucrose-proton co-transporter.

Plant sucrose transporters are required for phloem loading, and therefore are essential for plant growth and development. In common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) there are only two sucrose transporters functionally characterized. Through a previous RNA-seq study, we identified a putative sucrose transporter in common bean, which we hypothesize to function in import of sucrose into plant cells. In silico analysis revealed that PvSUT1.1 is a putative sucrose-proton co-transporter distinct from other characterized sucrose transporters in common bean indicating that this is a previously undescribed transporter protein in beans. Further analysis revealed that PvSUT1.1 shares high protein sequence homology to the phloem loader Arabidopsis SUC2; both have 12 transmembrane domains, a typical characteristic of plant sucrose transporters. Heterologous expression in yeast further showed PvSUT1.1 to be functional and it imported sucrose into yeast cells with a Km of 0.7 mM sucrose. Import of sucrose through PvSUT1.1 is also pH-dependent with highest uptake at pH 4.0, and activity is lost in the presence of the uncoupler carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone. Consistent with identification of PvSUT1.1 as a Type I transporter, PvSUT1.1 also transports esculin. Finally, PvSUT1.1 showed expression in multiple tissues and the protein was localized to the plasma membrane. The results show that PvSUT1.1 is a sucrose transporter that is probably involved in the uptake of sucrose into source and sink cells. The potential role of PvSUT1.1 in leaf phloem loading of sucrose in common beans and its importance in heat tolerance of reproductive tissues are further discussed.
Art Therapy Drawing Protocols for Chronic Pain: Quantitative Results from a Mixed Method Pilot Study

Abstract This pilot study explored the effects of a psychosocial empirically supported arts drawing protocol for trauma on chronic pain reduction, positive and negative affect, as well as relationships and resources. Additional aims were to explore memory reconsolidation as a change factor in art therapy. The study examined three- and four-drawing protocols and two resource reminder conditions to evaluate which version of the protocol was most helpful. Significant improvements were found in ratings of pain, depression, anxiety, relationship quality, and helplessness from pre-test to post-test, and in the frequency of experiencing pain, depression, fear, anger, relationship problems, and endorsed resources. There were significant differences between groups for anger, and a time by resource reminder condition interaction effect for fear. Exploratory analyses showed similar results for those who participated in the study before and during the first three months of the COVID-19 pandemic, and online versus in-person participation. However, pre-pandemic participants reported an increase in frequency of hopefulness over time, yet participants during the pandemic reported a decrease in frequency of experiencing hopefulness over time. Also, online participants reported a greater decrease in hopefulness frequencies when compared to in-person participants. There were no significant differences between the two versions of the protocol or the memory reconsolidation reminder conditions.
Linearity-Enhanced Quasi-Balanced Doherty Power Amplifier With Mismatch Resilience Through Series/Parallel Reconfiguration for Massive MIMO

A reconfigurable series/parallel quasi-balanced Doherty power amplifier (QB-DPA) is presented with a unique capability of maintaining high linearity and high efficiency against load mismatch, which is highly desirable for massive multiple-input–multiple-output (MIMO) and active array applications. Based on the new QB-DPA topology derived from an ideal balanced amplifier, it is, for the first time, discovered that QB-DPA can be reconfigured between series- and parallel-DPA modes by setting the isolation-port loading to the ground and open circuit, respectively, and exchanging the roles of main and auxiliary amplifiers. Expanding from the ideal Doherty modes, the isolation port can be loaded with small reactance (susceptance) for linearity enhancement of series (parallel) QB-DPA. Furthermore, by leveraging the symmetry of series and parallel modes with complementary sensitivities to load impedance/admittance, it is theoretically proved that the QB-DPA can be strongly mismatch-resilient. Based upon the comprehensive and conclusive theoretical analysis, a physical prototype demonstration is practically presented using the GaN technology at 3.5 GHz. In modulated measurement using Long-Term Evolution (LTE) signals, the developed QB-DPA exhibits excellent linearity, e.g., $\Omega $ condition, which compares favorably with state of the art. More importantly, through only a two-state adaption (using silicon-on-insulator (SOI)-based switches) of reactive loading at the output isolation port together with optimized gate biasing, the high linearity ( 31%) can be experimentally maintained up to 2.5:1 of voltage standing wave ratio.
Navigating a Path to Equity in Cancer Care: The Role of Patient Navigation.

Notable barriers exist in the delivery of equitable care for all patients with cancers. Social determinants of health at distal, intermediate, and proximal levels impact cancer care. Patient naviga...
Increasing System Transparency About Medical AI Recommendations May Not Improve Clinical Experts’ Decision Quality

Medical AI systems generate personalized recommendations to improve patient care, but it is unclear how system transparency affects how clinicians incorporate AI recommendations into care decisions. We employ mixed methods, combining semi-structured interviews and two computer-based experiments to examine factors posited to support proper system use. In the interviews from Study 1, clinicians expressed that features like the level of confidence and explanations for AI recommendations would increase adoption, consistent with the general literature on the use of recommender systems. To evaluate this within the clinical context, we conducted a pair of experiments where kidney transplant experts were faced with decision tasks. In Study 2, participants received AI recommendations for drug dosing and were shown (or not) the confidence level and an explanation. In Study 3, participants were shown explanations (or not) and received two patient cases each with either a high- or low-quality AI recommendation. Contrary to theoretical predictions, providing explanations did not uniformly increase adoption of AI recommendations or improve clinical decision quality. Instead, explanations increased adoption of low-quality AI recommendations and decreased the adoption of high-quality recommendations. The results also revealed significant differences in the behaviors of physicians and non-physicians regarding the use of AI advice.
Signal Integrity in High Speed 3D IC Design- A Case Study

3D stacking technology presents benefits over 2D by providing an increased packing density, however, signal routing complexity increases significantly. Moreover, the high-density 3D vertical interconnects can cause additional signal integrity degradation due to parasitics from different directions and coupling noise. This can severely impact system performance. This paper shows a detailed case study of signal integrity and electrical modeling for 3D Vias based on MIT 0.15 µm 3DFDSOI process technology. The three-dimensional EM field solver (HFSS) and Advanced System Design simulator (ADS) are used to conduct 3D circuit analysis and simulations in both frequency (S-Parameters) and time (Eye Diagram) domains. In addition, a proposed circuit 3D test architecture based on the Gunning Transceiver Logic (GTL) I/O is proposed, which can potentially validate the 3D Via electrical modeling.
Foundations of Dynamic Economic Analysis: Optimal Control Theory and Applications

1. Essential elements of continuous time dynamic optimization 2. Necessary conditions for a simplified control problem 3. Concavity and sufficiency in optimal control problems 4. The maximum principle and economic interpretations 5. Linear optimal control problems 6. Necessary and sufficient conditions for a general class of control problems 7. Necessary and sufficient conditions for isoperimetric problems 8. Economic characterization of reciprocal isoperimetric problems 9. The dynamic envelope theorem and economic interpretations 10. The dynamic envelope theorem and transversality conditions 11. Comparative dynamics via envelope methods 12. Discounting, current values, and time consistency 13. Local stability and phase portraits of autonomous differential equations 14. Necessary and sufficient conditions for infinite horizon control problems 15. The neoclassical optimal economic growth model 16. A dynamic limit pricing model of the firm 17. The adjustment cost model of the firm 18. Qualitative properties of infinite horizon optimal control problems with one state variable and one control variable 19. Dynamic programming and the Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation 20. Intertemporal duality in the adjustment cost model of the firm.
SU-E-T-374: Evaluation and Verification of Dose Calculation Accuracy with Different Dose Grid Sizes for Intracranial Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Purpose: In this study, we aim to evaluate the effect of dose grid size on the accuracy of calculated dose for small lesions in intracranial stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and to verify dose calculation accuracy with radiochromic film dosimetry. Methods: 15 intracranial lesions from previous SRS patients were retrospectively selected for this study. The planning target volume (PTV) ranged from 0.17 to 2.3 cm3. A commercial treatment planning system was used to generate SRS plans using the volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique using two arc fields. Two convolution-superposition-based dose calculation algorithms (Anisotropic Analytical Algorithm and Acuros XB algorithm) were used to calculate volume dose distribution with dose grid size ranging from 1 mm to 3 mm with 0.5 mm step size. First, while the plan monitor units (MU) were kept constant, PTV dose variations were analyzed. Second, with 95% of the PTV covered by the prescription dose, variations of the plan MUs as a function of dose grid size were analyzed. Radiochomic films were used to compare the delivered dose and profile with the calculated dose distribution with different dose grid sizes. Results: The dose to the PTV, in terms of the mean dose, maximum, and minimum dose, showed steady decrease with increasing dose grid size using both algorithms. With 95% of the PTV covered by the prescription dose, the total MU increased with increasing dose grid size in most of the plans. Radiochromic film measurements showed better agreement with dose distributions calculated with 1-mm dose grid size. Conclusion: Dose grid size has significant impact on calculated dose distribution in intracranial SRS treatment planning with small target volumes. Using the default dose grid size could lead to under-estimation of delivered dose. A small dose grid size should be used to ensure calculation accuracy and agreement with QA measurements.
Conservation and redistribution of crust during the Indo-Asian collision

We evaluate the mass balance of the Indo-Asian orogen by reconstructing the Indian and Asian margins prior to collision using recently published paleomagnetic and surface shortening constraints, and subtracting modern crustal volumes derived from gravity inversions and deep seismic soundings. Results show a ~30% deficit between original and modern orogen volumes if the average global crustal thickness of 41 km is assumed prior to collision, even once eastward extrusion and crustal flow are considered. Such a large discrepancy requires crustal recycling of a magnitude that is greater than one half of the modern orogenic mass, as others have previously suggested. Proposals for extensive high elevations prior to or soon after the collision further exacerbate this mismatch and dramatically increase the volume of material necessary to be placed into the mantle. However, we show that this discrepancy can be eliminated with a 23–29 km thick crust within the orogen prior to collision along with a thick southern Tibet margin (the Lhasa and Qiangtang terranes). Because of the relatively low magnitude of surface shortening in Asia, an initially thin crust would require underplating of Indian crust in southern Tibet and displacement of a highly mobile lower crust to the north and east in order to explain modern crustal thicknesses. The contrast between a proposed thinner Asian interior and older and thicker lithosphere of the North China block may have defined the distal extent of deformation at the time of collision and since.
The adaptive landscape as a conceptual bridge between micro- and macroevolution.

An adaptive landscape concept outlined by G.G. Simpson constitutes the major conceptual bridge between the fields of micro- and macroevolutionary study. Despite some important theoretical extensions since 1944, this conceptual bridge has been ignored in many empirical studies. In this article, we review the status of theoretical work and emphasize the importance of models for peak movement. Although much theoretical work has been devoted to evolution on stationary, unchanging landscapes, an important new development is a focus on the evolution of the landscape itself. We also sketch an agenda of empirical issues that is inspired by theoretical developments.
Super-Parameterization of Boundary Layer Roll Vortices in Tropical Cyclone Models

Abstract : Our approach to parameterization of roll vortices in a TC model resembles the superparameterization approach used to simulate cloud physics processes in general circulation models (Grabowski 2001). This methodology includes embedding a roll vortex resolving high-resolution 2-D LES model into the 3-D equation system representing a TC model. The decomposition of a 3-D equation system into two coupled equation systems for the mean flow and convective scale motions (roll vortices) is described in detail by Ginis et al. (2004) for an idealized 2-D mean flow. In this project, we extended this procedure for a general case of a 3-D TC model. The two models are coupled and explicitly solve the two-way interaction between the large-scale flow and roll vortices. The approach is schematically illustrated in Fig. 1. The 2-D LES model numerical meshes are oriented perpendicular to the direction of the mean wind flow generated by the TC model within the lowest 3 km thickness layer. The exact location of the convective meshes are determined experimentally
Monte Carlo Simulations of the 2+1 Dimensional Fokker-Planck Equation: Spherical Star Clusters Containing Massive, Central Black Holes

The dynamical behavior of a relaxed star cluster containing a massive, central black hole poses a challenging problem for the theorist and intriguing possibilities for the observer. The historical development of the subject is sketched and the salient features of the physical solution and its observational consequences are summarized.
Relations between personality, knowledge, and behavior in professional service encounters

We report two studies that tested hypotheses about relations between personality, knowledge about service encounters, and performance in service encounters. A novel method for measuring knowledge was used. In one study, we measured undergraduates' personality, knowledge, and skill in handling service encounters in jobs performed by human factors professionals. The other study reanalyzed data reported by Motowidlo, Crook, Kell, and Naemi about volunteers' personality, knowledge about volunteer service encounters, and job performance. Both studies found that knowledge about service encounters is correlated with effectiveness in service encounters, even when effects of personality are controlled. Conscientiousness was correlated with this knowledge. We discuss implications of personality in the development of knowledge about effective behavior in social situations at work.
Participation of NF-κB in cell survival or proliferation is regulated by interaction with β-catenin (398.7)

Understanding the signaling pathways involved in liver regeneration (LR) has important therapeutic implications. We have previously shown that β-catenin sequestration of p65 in cytosol prevents it ...
Effect of Trace Metals on Phagocytosis by Alveolar Macrophages

Experiments were performed to measure the effect of trace metals on a vital function of the alveolar macrophage (AM), phagocytosis. Since certain trace metals were found to reduce the viability of AMs, a technique was developed to permit examination of live cells only for phagocytosis. Evidence is presented that Ni2+ selectively altered the phagocytic activity of AMs at concentrations lower than those which caused cell death. It is further shown that a level of VO3− that caused extensive lysis and death did not reduce phagocytosis in surviving cells. The effects of Cd2+, Cr3+, and Mn2+ on AMs were also examined.
Modal analysis of segmented, laminated, anisotropic, inhomogeneous beams

Early skis were made from wood, they varied in length, width and thickness but all were similar in performance. They now have very different performance characteristics from the giant slalom, racing, bump and recreational skis. However, very little is known about the changes in these materials after thousands of cycles of finite strain levels. We study the dynamic behavior of skis using the nondestructive technique of modal analysis. This method separates the fundamental modes of vibration. The mode shapes are generated and the dampening factors are calculated for the different modes. Each mode is dynamically displayed on a computer and the data sets printed out. The goal is to determine why and how skis change their dynamic response.
Fasting and postprandial hepatic bile flow in unanesthetized opossums

In conscious opossums, we evaluated the relationship between hepatic bile flow and the intestinal motor function during fasting as well as after feeding. In six opossums, bipolar electrodes were implanted from the gastric antrum to the terminal ileum. After cholecystectomy, the common duct was ligated, and a catheter was tied into the proximal common duct for collecting hepatic bile. During subsequent studies, hepatic bile flow was measured, and bile was returned to the duodenum through an externalized duodenal catheter. Cyclic increases in bile flow during fasting did not show a close correlate with the duodenal migratory motor complex (MMC) cycle. Rather, bile flow showed peak values [0.11 +/- 0.02 (SE) ml/min] when phase III MMC activity reached the midileum. Hepatic bile flow correlated closely with the amount of bile acid secreted by the liver. When the bile acid pool was depleted by diverting bile from the intestine, hepatic secretion of bile fell to uniformly low values of approximately 0.04 ml/min that did not show cyclic variation. Hepatic bile flow after feeding increased to a maximal value of 0.12 +/- 0.01 ml/min at 90 min. We conclude that increases in hepatic bile flow during fasting and after meals are determined mainly by variations in intestinal motor activity that alter small bowel transit and thereby affect the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids.
A Discussion of Enzyme Reference Materials: Applications and Specifications

Clinical laboratories estimating enzyme activity in serum are using commercial lyophilized sera for four major purposes. These uses—as a standard and for intermethod, intramethod, and precision control—are segregated, and specifications for each deployment are examined in terms of requirements for the enzyme material: freedom from interfering or indicator enzymes and chromogens; high specific activity; inclusion of optimal cofactor concentrations; commutability, human properties and source; the presence of a single isoenzyme; and stability. The effects of serum matrix and variable assay conditions on the utility of enzyme materials are analyzed. Specifications differ for each enzyme material application. The compatibility of commercial lyophilized sera containing aspartate aminotransferase activity with several cited specifications is assessed
Multiple kinases mediate T-cell-receptor signalling

T-cell-receptor stimulation results in an array of early responses similar to those evoked by activation of receptor tyrosine kinases, including rapid induction of tyrosine phosphorylation, although no tyrosine kinase activity resides within any of the chains of the T-cell receptor. However, a 70 kDa tyrosine kinase, ZAP-70, has been found to associate with the zeta and CD3 chains of the T-cell receptor following stimulation. Recently, several immunodeficient individuals have been identified with loss-of-function mutations of ZAP-70. T cells from these patients have impaired responses to T-cell-receptor ligands, implying a central role for ZAP-70 in T-cell signaling. Here we examine the likely interactions of ZAP-70 and Src family kinases in generating a T-cell response.
Lung hernia after video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy.

Lung hernias are rare and are most commonly secondary to blunt or penetrating trauma. Few cases have been reported after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery and only one case after video-assisted ...
The pros and cons of drug testing in the business sector

The public policy issues of whether society should permit the business sector to test for the presence of illegal drug use by the employees is one in which seemingly convincing arguments can be advanced to support self-policing in this area as well as equally cogent arguments erected against the concept of empowering the corporate sector, to investigate the presumably enact sanctions against employee illegal drug usage. In this paper the authors will attempt to explore the controversy from several different scholarly perspectives, analyzing the most important arguments both for and against permitting the corporate sector to engage in employee drug testing. In criticizing each argument we will attempt to explicate the salient public policy implications, business effects and unique ethical issues that will have profound ramifications upon the larger society. In addition, we will analyze the current legal status of this controversy, citing the applicable controlling cases at the Federal level. Finally, the authors will give their policy recommendations based upon their analysis of the discussion in this paper. The authors believe it would be most advantageous to facilitate this discussion by first considering the arguments for permitting the corporate sector to engage in drug-testing employees for illegal substances, and then consider the arguments against permitting corporate drug-testing.
Baryon distribution in relativistic heavy-ion collisions

Recently there has been considerable interest in highly relativistic heavy-ion collisions which was suggested as a way to produce a phase transition from the ordinary confined matter to the unconfined quark-gluon plasma. As the fraction of baryons in the early universe was small, it seems desirable to design a heavy-ion collider such that when the energy density in the central rapidity is high enough for a phase transition, there is no net baryon density there. Recent investigations reveal that the average downward shift of the projectile baryon rapidity is quite large. The formation of a pure quark-gluon plasma depends on the shape of the baryon momentum distributions. It is of interest to estimate the baryon momentum distribution. We shall study the baryon distribution using the Glauber-type multiple collision model. In this model, a nucleon in one nucleus makes many inelastic collisions with nucleons in the other nucleus, the probability being given by the thickness function and the total nucleon-nucleon inelastic cross section. Each baryon-baryon collision results in a degradation of their energies and momenta in accordance with experimental nucleon-nucleon inelastic differential cross section data. This model is an extension of the model of Blankenbecler et al. to include the effectmore » of energy degradation. We shall focus our attention on the longitudinal momentum distribution in terms of the Feynman scaling variable x.« less
Exploring structural differences between rural and urban informal settlements from imagery: the basureros of Cobán

This study evaluates whether imagery and geospatial-based measures show differences between urban and suburban informal settlements. A secondary focus is to determine if these differences are sufficient to characterize an established urban and a newly forming squatter settlement in a suburban area, and what qualities can help identify such areas that may otherwise be overlooked in standard image or land cover classification of human settlements. Comparing a suburban informal settlement in Coban and an established urban informal settlement in Guatemala City, Guatemala, the research demonstrates that accessibility measures of roads, their surface texture, and geomorphic properties of curvature and slope are significantly different between the two settlements. The ability to understand informal settlement differences from imagery and geographic information systems (GIS) is an important advantage when household surveys and field work are ineffective or not possible. In addition, such understanding can assist ...
Knowledge management and its link to artificial intelligence

Abstract Knowledge management is an emerging area which is gaining interest by both industry and government. As we move toward building knowledge organizations, knowledge management will play a fundamental role towards the success of transforming individual knowledge into organizational knowledge. One of the key building blocks for developing and advancing this field of knowledge management is artificial intelligence, which many knowledge management practitioners and theorists are overlooking. This paper will discuss the emergence and future of knowledge management, and its link to artificial intelligence.
Thermal-induced simultaneous liquid–liquid phase separation and liquid–solid transition in aqueous polyurethane dispersions

Abstract Thermal-induced simultaneous phase separation and liquid–solid transition (gelation) in waterborne polyurethane dispersions has been detected morphologically and rheologically. The viscoelastic material functions, such as dynamic shear moduli, G′ and G″ complex shear viscosity, η* and loss tangent, tan δ were found to be very sensitive to the structure evolution during the gelation process and the subsequent formation of a fractal polymer gel. At the onset temperature of the gelation process, an abrupt increase in G′, G″ and η* (several orders of magnitude) was observed during the dynamic temperature ramps (2 °C/min heating-rate) over a wide range of angular frequency. The temperature dependencies of G′, G″ and tan δ were found to be frequency independent at the gel-point, Tgel, providing a fingerprint for determining Tgel of the dispersions. Furthermore, a dramatic increase in zero-shear viscosity, η0 (v-shape) was observed at T=Tgel and found to be in good agreement with the value obtained from the tan δ versus T data. As expected, the time–temperature–superposition principle was found to be only valid for temperatures lower than the Tgel; the principle failed at T≥70 °C. The morphology of the dispersions at 70 °C for 2 h showed for 36, 38 and 40 wt% formation of a network structure having a unique periodicity and phase connectivity. A lower critical solution temperature (LCST) phase diagram was estimated based on the different morphologies of the dispersions. The coexistence of liquid–liquid and liquid–solid transitions at the same temperature range confirmed the complex behavior of the polyurethane dispersions, pointing to the need for a new theory that explicitly takes this special behavior into account.
Differential Impact of Temperature and Magnesium on Myosin V and Myosin II

We examined the impact of temperature and free magnesium concentration on monomeric FlAsH labeled myosin V (MV FlAsH), dimeric myosin V (MV HMM), and dimeric fast skeletal muscle myosin II (SK HMM) using ATPase and motility assays. Our results indicate that MV HMM and SK HMM both have a linear dependence on temperature that is similar in both ATPase and motility assays. However, MV FlAsH contains a different temperature dependence in ATPase and motility assays suggesting its short lever arm may impart a high strain dependence in the motility assay. MV HMM and MV FlAsH are inhibited by high concentrations of magnesium in both ATPase and motility assays. The rate-limiting step in myosin V is known to be ADP release, which we demonstrate correlates well with the magnesium and temperature dependence of ATPase and motility assays. Interestingly, SK HMM exhibits magnesium inhibition in ATPase assays, but only a slight decrease is observed in the motility assay. In SK HMM the rate-limiting step in ATPase assays is thought to be attachment to actin or phosphate release, while in motility assays it is controversial. Our results indicate that SK HMM is better described by an attachment limited model in the motility assay. Magnesium may reduce the duty ratio of SK HMM which alters ATPase activity but not velocity in the motility assay. Future experiments will determine if magnesium alters the actin binding and/or the product release steps in myosin V and skeletal muscle myosin. Myosin V contains a tyrosine (residue 439) in the switch II region, which is an alanine at the corresponding position in myosin II, suggesting this residue may play a key role in differentially altering magnesium coordination in the active site of myosins.
Residual stresses in TiPdNi base thin film shape memory alloys

Abstract TiPdNi thin films with less than 2 μm thickness were produced using ion beam assisted deposition (IBAD) on heated and unheated substrates. Films deposited on unheated substrates were found to be amorphous, and subsequently annealed to induce crystallization. Residual stresses in the films were evaluated using the Stoney equation after deposition, and after annealing. Films deposited using IBAD on unheated substrates were found to have slight compressive stress (−22.4 MPa) while films deposited on heated substrates had a moderate tensile stress (176.2 MPa). Annealed films experienced extensive tensile stress (598.3 MPa), resulting in film failure.
Increased Complication Rates After Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in Patients With Cirrhosis of the Liver

Background Risk stratification is critical in patients with cirrhosis undergoing THAs and TKAs, as they may be more likely to have serious medical and surgical complications. As opposed to the Child-Pugh scoring system, which has limited use for orthopaedic surgeons inexperienced in assessing ascites and hepatic encephalopathy, the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) is an easily calculated, validated scoring system for severity of liver disease based on common laboratory values; however, its usefulness for predicting complications after elective arthroplasty has not been studied.
The temporal degradation of bone collagen: A histochemical approach.

Abstract As forensic anthropologists are currently unable to estimate reliably and quantitatively the postmortem interval (PMI) of skeletonized remains, the current study was conducted to determine if degradation of bone collagen over time could be quantified using sirius red/fast green staining, and whether the degradation would occur at a predictive rate such that it may be used to estimate the PMI of skeletonized individuals. Resin embedded 200–300 μm cross-sections of pig (Sus scrofa) long bones with known provenience and PMIs ranging from fresh to 12 months were stained using a histochemical reaction which differentially stains collagenous (Co) and non-collagenous (NCo) proteins. Spectrophotometry was used to determine the concentration of Co and NCo proteins in each bone section, after which the ratio of these proteins was calculated. The results of this study revealed a significant decline in the ratios of Co/NCo protein concentrations over the time period studied (p
The xerogel made from decomposing liquid metal-ammonia solutions ― A solid material which carries current densities of 105 A cm−2 at room temperature

Abstract Decomposing liquid lithium-ammonia and sodium-ammonia solutions are high-conducting in some critically decomposed states, in which they form a gel with capillaries of the non-decomposed solution extending one-dimensionally through a sponge-like network of the decomposition product (alkali amide). The solutions may be stabilized at room temperature in their critically decomposed state if the ammonia is swept out of the capillaries of the gel in order to inhibit any further decomposition reaction. The xerogel, which retains the reduced structural dimensionality of the gel, can carry current densities of 105 A cm−2.
Neighborhood Socioeconomic Conditions as Moderators of Family Resource Transmission: High School Completion among At-Risk Youth

We investigate how neighborhood socioeconomic conditions (SES), family resources during adolescence, and high school completion are related for a sample of at-risk youth. Borrowing from the “neighb...
Flexible Production and Flexible Theory: The Case of South Africa

Abstract By providing a simple overview of the character of the South African economy as a ‘minerals-energy complex’, the relevance of flexible production to policy making is contested, alongside the presentation of a broader critique of the flec-spec debate. In addition, the intellectual origins of the flexibility approach are identified in terms of dual labour market theory and the simple reversal of the merits of the primary and secondary sectors. This confirms the neglect in policy based on flexibility production both of South African economic realities and the class interests underlying them.
The nature of cognitions in panic disorder.

Abstract The importance of cognitions in panic disorder is discussed. Data is presented comparing cognitions in panic and non-panic anxiety in 159 patients. Panic cognitions are of personal catastrophe and directed towards the immediate present. This is true even in depressed patients. These cognitions can be seen as interpretations of internal stimuli. This aspect of panic complements behavioural and biological approaches and there is a significant cognitive component to these therapies.
Measuring Customer Wine Satisfaction When Dining at a Restaurant

The present study reports the factors that influence wine satisfaction when dining at a restaurant. Wine pairings with food have been a popular way to encourage restaurant patrons to purchase wine. Satisfaction with wine shows a strong relationship with increased sales at restaurants. In this research, wine consumers' confidence, food quality, environment, and service were used as independent variables to investigate the impact on wine satisfaction in a restaurant setting. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to measure significance of independent variables. The study was exploratory, relating the four factors to satisfaction of wine experiences in restaurants. The results suggested that food quality was the significant indicator of wine satisfaction among customers when dining at a restaurant.
Foundations of Buoyancy Driven Heat Transfer Correlations

In terms of a dimensionless number, Π N ∼Ra/(1+Pr -1 ), introduced by Arpact for buoyancy driven flows, Ra and Pr respectively being the usual Rayleigh and Prandtl numbers, two well-known correlations (Churchill and Chu) for natural convection next to a vertical isothermal plate are reduced in terms of Π L =Ra/(1+0.492Pr -1 ) to Nu=0.67Π 1/4 L 10 3 ≤Π L ≤10 9 , for the laminar case, and in terms of Π T =Ra/(1+0.164Pr -1 ) to Nu=0.15Π 1/3 T , 10 9 ≤Π T ≤10 12 , for the turbulent case
Neuroanatomical Correlates to Central Deafness

Our research experience with five centrally deaf patients showed that damage to various anatomical sites could result in central deafness. This finding was contrary to the commonly held notion that both Heschl's gyri must be severely damaged to yield central deafness. To discover whether lesions in various brain areas could cause central deafness, we reviewed 33 cases of central deafness reported in the literature which had sufficient radiological data to determine the anatomical regions involved. Both Heschl's gyri were involved in the majority of these cases, but there were definite exceptions. In these exceptional cases of central deafness, subcortical areas were involved (usually the internal capsule), as was the insula. Overall findings are discussed and recommendations are offered for the future study of centrally deaf patients.
SYNCHRONOUS CHAOS IN COUPLED OSCILLATOR SYSTEMS

We investigate the synchronization of chaotic oscillations in coupled oscillator systems, both theoretically and in analog electronic circuits. Particular attention is paid to deriving and testing general conditions for the stability of synchronous chaotic behavior in cases where the coupled oscillator array possesses a shift-invariant symmetry. These cases include the well studied cases of nearest-neighbor diffusive coupling and all-to-all or global coupling. An approximate criterion is developed to predict the stability of synchronous chaotic oscillations in the strong coupling limit, when the oscillators are coupled through a single coordinate (scalar coupling). This stability criterion is illustrated numerically in a set of coupled R\"ossler-like oscillators. Synchronization experiments with coupled R\"ossler-like oscillator circuits are also carried out to demonstrate the applicability of the theory to real systems.