cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Post-transcriptional regulation of organ-specific expression of individual rbcS mRNAs in Lemna gibba.

Many studies of nuclear genes encoding chloroplast proteins have focused on the transcriptional regulation of their expression. The genes (rbcS) encoding the small subunit (SSU) of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase, a major stromal protein, comprise one such group. We have examined the role played by post-transcriptional events in determining the relative levels of individual rbcS mRNAs in different organs of the aquatic monocot Lemna gibba. L. gibba is unusual among angiosperms in that its roots are normally exposed to light during growth and contain chloroplasts. We have found that such roots transcribe rbcS genes and contain rbcS mRNA. We have used sequence-specific probes from the 39-untranslated region of six rbcS genes from L. gibba to analyze the expression of the individual genes in different organs. All six genes were expressed in steady-state mRNA in fronds grown in constant white light. However, only five of these were easily detectable in steady-state mRNA isolated from roots of the same plants, and the relative expression of each gene varied between the roots and the fronds. In steady-state mRNA, SSU1 was found to be highly expressed in both roots and fronds, whereas SSU40B was expressed at low levels in the roots as compared with the fronds, and SSU5B RNA was barely detectable in the roots. The extremely low level of SSU5B RNA in steady-state root mRNA is likely to be a consequence of post-transcriptional events because this gene was transcribed at comparable rates in vitro in nuclei isolated from either roots or fronds. Localization of individual gene transcripts by in situ hybridization showed that SSU1 and SSU5B are expressed in the same cells in the fronds. Thus, the mechanism of differential expression is likely to involve an organ-specific post-transcriptional mechanism.
Synthesis of some O-d-xylosyl-d-mannoses and their derivatives

Abstract Methyl and benzyl 3- O -β- d -xylopyranosyl-α- d -mannopyranoside were prepared by way of d -xylosylation (Koenigs-Knorr) of methyl and benzyl 4,6- O -benzylidene-α- d -mannopyranoside ( 1 and 17 ). Analogous 2- O -β- d -xylopyranosyl-α- d -mannopyranosides could not be prepared efficiently by this procedure. However, methyl and benzyl 3- O -acetyl-4,6- O -benzylidene-α- d -mannopyranoside, prepared by limited acetylation of 1 and 17 , respectively, could be d -xylosylated by the same method, and afforded, after removal of protective groups, methyl and benzyl 2- O -β- d -xylopyranosyl-α- d -mannopyranoside. Hydrogenolysis of benzyl 2- O - and 3- O -β- d -xylopyranosyl-α- d -mannopyranoside yielded the corresponding, reducing disaccharides. In addition to these disaccharides, disaccharides containing an α- d -xylopyranosyl group, and trisaccharides having d -xylopyranosyl groups at both O-2 and O-3 were obtained as minor products.
Non-invasive assessment of aortic mechanical properties

Echocardiography and sphygmomanometry were used to noninvasively assess the changes in aortic mechanical properties associated with aging. Fifty normal individuals were examined and were divided into three groups: young ( 55). Experimental measurements indicated that elastic aortic stiffness in the circumferential direction increased with increased age. It was concluded that this was consistent with increased deposition of circumferentially oriented collagen within the media. Associated with increased elastic aortic stiffness in the circumferential direction was a decrease in the ability of the aorta to act as an auxiliary pump. The average work per unit length recovered from aortas of older individuals was only 44% of that recovered from the aortas of individuals in the young group. These studies suggest that increased elastic aortic stiffness results in decreased aortic pumping efficiency and may lead to a compensating increase in blood pressure.
Differential effects of intracisternal neurotensin and bombesin on stress- and ethanol-induced gastric ulcers.

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of intracisternal (I.C.) administration of the brain and gastrointestinal peptides neurotensin (NT) and bombesin (BOM) on the acute development of gastric ulcers induced by cold-restraint stress (CRS) and ethanol in rats. The results of this study can be summarized as follows: 1. 1) In confirmation of previous observations I.C. NT (30ug) and BOM (lug) significantly reduced gastric ulcer incidence and severity induced by 3h of CRS. 2. 2) The results of the ethanol preparation indicate that although I.C. BOM (1 μg) significantly (P These findings support a role for brain NT and BOM in protection against psycho-behavioral, but not chemical forms of ulcer-producing stress.
TENSILE BEHAVIOUR OF PYROLYTIC GRAPHITE AT 2,750 C

Engineering stress-strain curves were obtained at temperatures of 1,650 to 2,750 deg C for a pyrolytic graphite which had been heated to 2,870 deg C. Changes were observed in the crystal structure as determined by x-ray diffraction. Results are illustrated graphically. Changes in the microstructure caused by the heating and straining were also observed and are illustrated photographically. Data on the tensile properties of pyrolytic graphite are tabulated. (C.H.)
Novel oral anticoagulants in patients undergoing cardioversion for atrial fibrillation

Recent trials on novel oral anticoagulants (NOAC) in patients undergoing cardioversion showed that NOACs are as safe and effective as treatment with vitamin K antagonists in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing electric or pharmacological cardioversion. We conducted an EMBASE and MEDLINE search for studies in which patients undergoing cardioversion were assigned to treatment with NOACs versus VKAs. We identified one prospective randomized study and three post hoc analysis of randomized trials which enrolled 2,788 controls that received NOACs and 1,729 patients that received VKAs. NOACs and VKAs had comparable effects on the rates of stroke/thromboembolism, major bleeding events and all-cause mortality. NOACs are safe and effective alternatives to VKA in patients with AF undergoing cardioversion.
Single-Molecule Analysis of Thymine Dimer-Containing G-Quadruplexes Formed from the Human Telomere Sequence

The human telomere plays crucial roles in maintaining genome stability. In the presence of suitable cations, the repetitive 5′-TTAGGG-3′ human telomere sequence can fold into G-quadruplexes that adopt the hybrid, basket, or propeller fold. The telomere sequence is hypersensitive to UV-induced thymine dimer (T=T) formation, yet it does not cause telomere shortening. In this work, the potential structural disruption and thermodynamic stability of the T=T-containing natural telomere sequences were studied to understand why this damage is tolerated in telomeres. First, established methods, such as thermal melting measurements, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and circular dichroism spectroscopy, were utilized to determine the effects of the damage on these structures. Second, a single-molecule ion channel recording technique using α-hemolysin (α-HL) was employed to examine further the structural differences between the damaged sequences. It was observed that the damage caused slightly lower thermal stab...
A multiple objective approach to workforce redeployment planning

Abstract In recent years, increasing worldwide competition has often resulted in a spate of plant closures and labor cutbacks. As a consequence, job security has been a growing concern of both employees and employers alike. Declining labor productivity, in turn, can lead to gradual loss of the company's competitive edge over its competitors. As learned from the Japanese success, a better way to stop such a vicious circle is a long-term commitment to ‘no-layoff’ policies. A no-layoff policy may be tenable by utilizing a redeployment strategy with which some US companies are starting to experiment. The key to success of redeployment is measuring its effectiveness and tackling its various related issues. This paper attempts to do so by developing a multiple objective quantitative model which captures many realistic variations of redeployment.
Age-related losses of retinal ganglion cells and axons.

Purpose Age-related losses in retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness have been assumed to be the result of an age-dependent reduction of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), but the published rates differ: age-related losses of RGCs of approximately 0.6%/year compared to 0.2%/year for thinning of the RNFL. An analysis of normative data for standard automated perimetry (SAP) sensitivities and optical coherence tomography (OCT) measures of RNFL thickness showed that the apparent disagreement in age-dependent losses of RGCs and axons in the RNFL can be reconciled by an age-dependent decrease in the proportion of the RNFL thickness that is composed of axons. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether the mechanisms of age-related losses that were suggested by the normative data can be confirmed with data from healthy, normal eyes. Methods Data were obtained from visual fields (normal results in a Glaucoma Hemifield Test [GHT] on standard automated perimetry [SAP] 24-2 fields) and RNFL thickness measurements (standard OCT scan) of 55 patients (age range, 18-80 years; mean, 44.5 +/- 17.3). The SAP measures of visual sensitivity and OCT measures of RNFL thickness for one eye of each patient were used to estimate neuron counts by each procedure. Results The age-related thinning of RNFL was 0.27%/year when a constant axon density was used to derive axon counts from RNFL thickness, compared with 0.50%/year for the age-related loss of RGCs from SAP. In agreement with the model developed with normative clinical data, concordance between losses of axons and soma was achieved by an age-dependent reduction of 0.46%/year in the density of axons in the RNFL. Conclusions The results suggest that the proportion of RNFL that is composed of RGC axons is not constant with age; rather, the proportion of the total thickness from non-neuronal tissue increases with age. If a similar compensation occurs in the RNFL thickness with axon loss from glaucoma, then a stage-dependent correction to translate OCT measurements to neuronal components is needed, in addition to the age-dependent correction.
Hormonal Effects on Kallikrein, Esterase A2, and Their Inhibitors in Rat Urine*

The effects of various hormones on the urinary excretion of kallikrein and esterase A2 were studied in rats. Chronic treatment with antidiuretic hormone had no effect on the excretion of either enzyme. Deoxycorticosterone treatment or a low sodium diet stimulated urinary kallikrein excretion (as is well known), but had no effect on urinary esterase A2. Dexamethasone markedly suppressed the excretion of both kallikrein and esterase A2 and increased the excretion of proteins inhibitors) that bind to each of these enzymes. It is likely that the suppressive effect of glucocorticoid on urinary kallikrein and esterase A2 activities is due to the increase in urinary binding proteins. There is also a strong correlation between the excretion of kallikrein and esterase A2 in normal untreated rats. Such a correlation might arise from a common effect of glucocorticoidinfluenced inhibitors on both enzymes. (Endocrinology 114: 951, 1984)
Personality and Emotional Reactivity

Abstract This study examined the relationship between personality and emotional reactivity. Extraversion and neuroticism were measured using the Eysenck Personality Inventory. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive either caffeine or placebo. Reported emotional experience was measured after subjects viewed positive and negative affect-eliciting filmclips, and facial expressiveness was measured from videotapes recorded while the subjects viewed the filmclips. Personality was associated with emotional reactivity among individuals who received placebo, but not among individuals who received caffeine. Among individuals who received placebo, higher levels of extraversion were associated with less reactivity to the negative stimuli, and higher levels of neuroticism were associated with less reactivity to positive stimuli.
Lysophosphatidic Acid Signaling in the Nervous System

The brain is composed of many lipids with varied forms that serve not only as structural components but also as essential signaling molecules. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is an important bioactive lipid species that is part of the lysophospholipid (LP) family. LPA is primarily derived from membrane phospholipids and signals through six cognate G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), LPA1-6. These receptors are expressed on most cell types within central and peripheral nervous tissues and have been functionally linked to many neural processes and pathways. This Review covers a current understanding of LPA signaling in the nervous system, with particular focus on the relevance of LPA to both physiological and diseased states.
Improved H.264 rate control by enhanced MAD-based frame complexity prediction

Abstract This paper presents a revised rate control scheme based on an improved frame complexity measure. Rate control adopted by both MPEG-4 VM18 and H.264/AVC use a quadratic rate–distortion (R–D) model that determines quantization parameters (QPs). Classical quadratic R–D model is suitable for MPEG-4 but it performs poorly for H.264/AVC because one of the important parameters, mean absolute difference (MAD), is predicted through a linear model, whereas the MAD used in MPEG-4 VM18 is the actual MAD. Inaccurately predicted MAD results in wrong QP and consequently degrades rate–distortion optimization (RDO) performance in H.264. To overcome the limitation of the existing rate control schemes, we introduce an enhanced linear model for predicting MAD, utilizing some knowledge of current frame complexity. Moreover, we propose a more accurate frame complexity measure, namely, normalized MAD, to replace the current use of MAD parameter. Normalized MAD has a stronger correlation with optimally allocated bits than that of the predicted MAD. To minimize video quality variations, we also propose a novel long-term QP limiter (LTQPL). Finally, a dynamic bit allocation scheme among basic units is implemented. Extensive simulation results show that our method, with inexpensive computational complexity added, improves the average peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and reduces video quality variations considerably.
The protection of high efficiency solar thermal collectors using the ternary mixture MnSO4·H2O·C2H6O2

Abstract The solubility of MnSO4 in water declines markedly as the temperature of the solution is raised. This effect can be used to coat the absorber plate of a solar collector with a layer of fine white crystals which scatter light away from the absorber if it exceeds a predetermined temperature. We have investigated the solubility limits of the ternary system MnSO4H2OC2H6O2 and found that ethylene glycol, added to the mix, provided adequate antifreeze protection and also increased the coating ability of the solution. We also found that the kinetics of nucleation and crystallization for this system are so slow that it will remain indefinitely in the supersaturated state; crystals only precipitate upon the initiation of boiling.
A chance observation of oriented diffraction from low-density serum lipoprotein

The X-ray diffraction patterns have been recorded from concentrated preparations of low-density serum lipoprotein (LDL). In one case a specimen gave rise to oriented diffraction: the 36 A ring, which has previously been attributed to the cholesteryl esters in LDL, shows markedly oriented intensity; and of the other small-angle rings, which do not show oriented peak intensity, one nonetheless shows significant anisometry. The possibility cannot be ruled out that an artifactual structure has been created; however, it is calculated that the structure will, if exposed in an unoriented preparation, give rise to 36 A diffraction not obviously distinguishable from the native pattern. If valid for the native LDL particle, these observation suggest that the cholesteryl esters in the core of the particle may be arranged in simple planar, or else cylindrically concentric, layers and that the overall shape of the particle is not a uniform sphere.
Nonlinear dynamic polarization force on a relativistic test particle in a nonequilibrium relativistic beam-plasma system

In a nonequilibrium beam-plasma system, the contribution of the polarization charge to the total force on a relativistic test particle, namely the dynamic polarization force, is calculated to fourth order in the total electromagnetic field for a slowly varying, nearly spatially independent background distribution with no external fields. This relation is useful in calculations of collective radiation processes and the conditions for the occurrence of collective radiative instability in relativistic beam-plasma systems.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A discrepancy between measurements of bone resorption in vivo and in vitro in newborn osteopetrotic rats.

Bone resorption in newborn osteopetrotic rats and their normal littermates was measured in vivo and in vitro with different results. The resorption measured in vivo was that induced by injection of parathyroid extract after labeling bone matrix with 3H. Resorption was measured in vitro, by a commonly used method, as the release into the culture medium of 45Ca and 3H previously incorporated in vivo into bone mineral and matrix respectively. In osteopetrotic rats resorption induced by parathyroid extract in vivo was 34 percent less than in littermate controls, whereas the resorption measured in vitro was 26 percent greater in bone from osteopetrotic rats. In addition, the hypercalcemia induced by injections of parathyroid extract was only half as great in osteopetrotic rats as in normal littermates. Acid phosphatase appears to be important in bone resorption; osteoclasts are rich in the enzyme and it is released from them during bone resorption. Newborn osteopetrotic rats have more osteoclasts which are richer in acid phosphatase than normal littermates. Therefore, it is proposed that the enhanced resorption found in bone from osteopetrotic rats in vitro is the result of release of this excessive acid phosphatase from osteoclasts under the conditions of culture and does not truly reflect resorption in vivo.
A Strategic Model of the U.S. Brewing Industry: 1952-1971

Quantitative models of business strategy can be developed upon the key relationship between a firm's objectives, its strategy and the environment in which it operates. To be meaningful, this paper ...
Infrared imaging of the anterior deltoid during overhead static exertions

Infrared imaging has been used to detect the presence of neuromuscular disorders of the cervical spine and upper extremities. Despite diagnostic uses, evaluative or prognostic uses of thermography are limited. The objective of this study was to quantify surface temperature changes over the anterior deltoid and evaluate efficacy of thermography as an assessment tool. Surface temperature, discomfort ratings and endurance time were quantified during overhead static exertions until exhaustion at two work loads (15 and 30% maximum voluntary contraction) and shoulder angles (90 degrees and 115 degrees ). Ten participants free of confounding conditions participated in the study. The 90 degrees shoulder angle and 30% exertion level resulted in significantly faster thermal image rates of change, shorter endurance times and faster perceived discomfort increases. Thermography readings were more sensitive to changes in shoulder posture than load changes. This study provides preliminary evidence that thermography may be a useful exposure assessment tool. There is a need for new evaluation tools to quantify risk factor exposure for injury. Thermography was sensitive to changes in task loadings, illustrating its potential use for risk assessment. Specifically, changes in observed blood flow patterns during task performance are likely to conform to known physiological responses to injury.
A comparison of empirical and semiempirical efficiency calculations for Ge detectors

Abstract Empirical and semiempirical formulations for calculating the full energy peak efficiency (FEPE) of Ge detectors are reviewed. By comparing the predictions of these formulae with experimental data obtained from an 86 cm 3 Ge(HP) crystal, it is found that the most precise predictions, over the largest possible energy range, are obtained using the semiempirical formula of Hajnal and Klusek [Nucl. Instr. and Meth. 122 (1974) 559]. Mean deviations of 1.8% were recorded over the energy range 59.6–3253.6 keV. The calculated efficiency curve was found to be in good agreement with Monte Carlo calculations.
Solubility and availability to sugarcane (Saccharum Spp.) of two silicate materials

Silicate materials, dicalcium orthosilicate (Ca2SiO4), calcium metasilicate (CaSiO3), and mini-granulated CaSiO3, were incorporated into three highly weathered, low-Si soils. The mixtures were moistened to field moisture-holding capacity and incubated in plastic bags for 60 days at approximately 25°C, after which Si was extracted. Application rates of silicate materials were 0, 460, 920, and 1380 mg Si per kg soil. Two ranges of particles sizes, 0.25 to 0.84 mm and 0.074 to 0.15 mm CaSiO3 and Ca2SiO4 were compared. The soils were a Typic Gibbsiorthox, pH 4.6; a Humoxic Tropohumult, pH 4.2; and a Typic Hydrandept, pH 5.0. Materials were evaluated by four extraction procedures: shaking in water, water displacement from saturated soil, shaking in ammonium acetate solution, and biologically by roots of sugarcane (Saccharum Spp. hybrid). Silicate from the CaSiO3 materials were generally more readily extracted chemically and biologically than silicate from the Ca2SiO4. Solubility and availability of Si usually increased as primary particle size of the silicate materials decreased. The exceptions were associated with the most acid (pH 4.2) Ultisol. Mini-granulation did not reduce the effectiveness of CaSiO3 thus confirming agronomic feasibility of mini-granulation. Plant uptake of Si was most closely related to water-extractable soil Si, followed by Si in saturation extracts and then by NH4 OAc-extractable Si.
On the hidden charm state at 3872 MeV

Abstract We discuss some puzzling aspects of the narrow hidden charm resonance that was recently discovered by the Belle Collaboration at mass 3872 MeV. In order to determine its quantum numbers, a crucial piece of information is the spin of the dipion in the decay final state π + π − J / ψ . We give the angular distributions and correlations of the final particles in the decay which will provide this information about the nature of this resonance.
A generalized computational approach to stability of static equilibria of nonlinearly elastic rods in the presence of constraints

Abstract We present a generalized approach to stability of static equilibria of nonlinearly elastic rods, subjected to general loading, boundary conditions and constraints (of both point-wise and integral type), based upon the linearized dynamics stability criterion. Discretization of the governing equations leads to a non-standard (singular) generalized eigenvalue problem. A new efficient sparse-matrix-friendly algorithm is presented to determine its few left-most eigenvalues, which, in turn, yield stability/instability information. For conservative problems, the eigenvalue problem arising from the linearized dynamics stability criterion is also shown to be equivalent to that arising in the determination of constrained local minima of the potential energy. We illustrate the method with several examples. A novel variational formulation for extensible and unshearable rods is also proposed within the context of one of the example problems.
Determination of Free Estriol in Amniotic Fluid by High Performance Liquid Chromatography

Abstract The estrogen levels of amniotic fluid and maternal plasma may be altered in those cases with a fetus which presents Down syndrome. This paper describes the methodology for determination of free estriol in amniotic fluid. Fresh amniotic fluid was extracted using solid phase extraction techniques. Analtech C18 Spice cartridges were used to extract estriol (E3) prior to chromatography. After elution of the analyte E3 from the cartridge, the solvent was evaporated under nitrogen in a warm water bath at 60°C. The extract was reconstituted in methanol and E3 separated by high-performance liquid chromatography. A reversed phase C18 Partisil ODS-3 (4.6 mm × 25 cm) column was developed with acetonitrile—methanol (65:35 v/v) as mobile phase. Subambient temperature (−20°C) improved the resolution and aided separation from extraneous material. Quantitation followed intrapolation against a standard curve prepared under identical conditions. Measurement of amniotic fluid E3 may provide insight into the reporte...
Delay in seeking emergency care.

Abstract. Objective: To determine whether patient clinical and socioeconomic characteristics predict patient delay in coming to the emergency department (ED). Methods: Adult ED patients at five urban teaching hospitals were surveyed regarding self-reported delay in coming to the ED. Delay was measured by self-perception as well as by the number of days ill and unable to work. Patient socioeconomic and clinical characteristics were obtained by survey questionnaire and chart review. Cross-sectional analysis within a prospective study of 4,094 consecutive patients was performed using a subset of 1,920 patients (84% eligible rate) to whom questionnaires were administered. Results: Overall, 32% of the patients completing the survey reported delay in seeking ED care. Of these patients reporting delay, 71% thought their problem would go away or was not serious. Patients who were older, had higher acuity, or were frequent ED users reported less delay in coming to the ED, while patients without a regular physician or who were African American reported more delay. Perception of increased number of days ill prior to visiting the ED was reported by frequent ED users and those with worse baseline physical function, while patients who had higher acuity reported fewer days ill prior to coming to the ED. Conclusions: A patient's decision to delay coming to the ED often reflects a belief that his or her illness is either self-limited or not serious. The decision to delay correlates with patient characteristics and access to a regular physician. The correlates of delay in seeking ED care may depend on the delay measure used. Better understanding of patients at risk for delaying care may influence interventions to reduce delay.
Can medroxyprogesterone acetate alter Toll-like receptor expression in a mouse model of intrauterine inflammation?

Objective Activation of the innate immune receptors, Toll-like receptors 2 and 4, are critical for a host inflammatory response to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. These receptors can initiate and modulate the inflammatory response. Differential regulation of Toll-like receptors may be one of the mechanisms by which intrauterine inflammation signals parturition. Likewise, progestational agents may have the ability to modify this effect. These studies were performed to elucidate the effect of intrauterine inflammation and medroxyprogesterone acetate on Toll-like receptor expression in the uterus, cervix, and placenta in a mouse model of intrauterine inflammation. Study design On day 15 of gestation, CD-1 mice were randomized to pretreatment with medroxyprogesterone acetate or vehicle before intrauterine infusion with lipopolysaccharide or sterile saline solution. Six hours after intrauterine infusion, uterine, cervical, and placental tissues were harvested. RNA and protein were extracted. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed for Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 messenger RNA. Western blot analysis was performed with Toll-like receptor 4–specific antibodies. Results Intrauterine inflammation up-regulated Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 messenger RNA in uterus, cervix, and placenta. Pretreatment with medroxyprogesterone acetate decreased the lipopolysaccharide-induced up-regulation of Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 messenger RNA in the cervix and placenta. Medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment, in the presence of lipopolysaccharide, was unable to prevent the lipopolysaccharide-induced increase in Toll-like receptor 4 messenger RNA and protein in the uterus. Medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment alone in pregnant mice significantly increased Toll-like receptor 4 messenger RNA expression in the uterus. Conclusion Intrauterine inflammation has a differential effect on Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 expression. The observed up-regulation of Toll-like receptor 2 in the uterus in response to intrauterine lipopolysaccharide may be a mechanism to augment the inflammatory response and may serve to promote parturition in the setting of inflammation. Consequently, the ability of medroxyprogesterone acetate to suppress lipopolysaccharide-induced up-regulation of Toll-like receptor 2 messenger RNA may be one of the mechanisms by which progestins are able to decrease preterm birth.
Non-Abelian bosonization and topological aspects of BCS systems

Abstract It is shown that many features of the low energy behaviour of weak coupling BCS systems are topological in character. This is done by writing the BCS action as a Fermi surface sum of (1 + 1)-dimentional non-Abelian actions, each one of which can be bosonized a la Witten. This process leads to the correct current generating parts (as found by Cross) in the effective action for the gap function, and in addition a Wess-Zumino term. The mass and spin currents are calculated for the three-dimensional theory, and it is shown that upon averaging over all directions on the Fermi surface, the contribution from the Wess-Zumino term vanishes for a pure spin singlet or pure spin triplet gap, but not otherwise.
In vitro condensation of amino acids in aqueous media: A synthesis driven by catalytic carbon monoxide oxidation

Abstract A novel mechanism is proposed for amino acid condensations to oligopeptides in aqueous media. The palladium-catalyzed condensation appears to proceed through a mechanism involving the Pd(0)/Pd(II) redox cycle. The reaction requires the use of carbon monoxide and an oxidant, and it is proposed that the oxidation of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide drives the otherwise thermodynamically uphill condensation. The reaction occurs for several amino acids including glycine, alanine, β-alanine, and 5-aminopentanoic acid. Competition studies between glycine and alanine reveal steric effects on product formation. Dipeptides are the predominant condensation products, though some longer chains, containing up to 4 amino acids, can be observed. First-order plots for dipeptide appearance show an inverse, secondary, isotope effect consistent with the rate determining carboxylic-carbamic anhydride formation.
Aerial Attack Produces Reciprocal Fatal Trauma between Great Horned Owl and Red-Shouldered Hawk

Abstract A Bubo virginianus (Great Horned Owl) and a Buteo lineatus (Red-Shouldered Hawk) were found dead in a field in Morgan County, GA following a reported mid-air attack. The birds were submitted to the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study (SCWDS), College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA for a postmortem examination. Necropsy results disclosed multiple foci of severe hemorrhage and bone fractures in both birds, and the findings suggest that this is an apparent case of reciprocal trauma in two raptors. Documented reciprocal fatal trauma in raptors is scarce, and to the author's knowledge, this is the only report involving Great Horned Owls.
Relationship of abnormal intracellular calcium mobilisation to myocyte hypertrophy in human ventricular myocardium

Objective: Calcium transients in muscles from patients with end stage heart failure consist of two components (L1 and L2) at physiological extracellular calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]); the second component (L2) can appear in normal human myocardium at high [Ca2+]. In muscles from end stage heart failure patients L2 is associated with significant hypertrophy. To expand these observations a group of muscles from control patients with mild hypertrophy but without overt heart disease was studied (n=8), in which a second calcium transient component was present during high [Ca2+]. Methods: Using the ratio of the two components of the calcium transient (L2/L1) seen in trabeculae from heart failure patients as a marker of intracellular calcium mobilisation, the hypothesis was tested that the extent of abnormality in transsarcolemmal calcium flux, and/or sarcoplasmic reticular calcium release and reuptake, correlates with the degree of hypertrophy present. Results: In contrast to non-hypertrophied myocardium, hypertrophied myocardium from patients without heart failure often showed an increase in the L2/L1 ratio at higher [Ca2+]. Hypertrophied myocardium from patients with failure showed a progressive increase in the L2/L1 ratio, reflecting further impairment of calcium mobilisation. There was a positive correlation between the degree of hypertrophy and calcium mobilisation alterations that was enhanced by raised [Ca2+]. Altered [Ca2+]i mobilisation may develop early in the course of hypertrophy, before the onset of clinical signs of cardiac dysfunction. Cardiovascular Research 1993; 27 :199-203
Polygonal representation of digital planar curves through dominant point detection-a nonparametric algorithm

We describe a new algorithm that detects a set of feature points on the boundary of an 8-connected shape that constitute the vertices of a polygonal approximation of the shape itself. The set of feature points (nodes) is a ranked subset of the original shape points whose connected left and right arm extents cover the entire shape. Nodes are ranked based on their strength (in terms of their importance to other boundary points), length of support region, and distance from the centroid. The polygon obtained by linking the detected nodes approximates the contour in an intuitive way. The proposed algorithm does not require an input parameter and works well for shapes with features of multiple sizes.
Gas-Phase Proton Affinity and Protonation Entropy Scale between Acetaldehyde and Methyl Acetate. An Experimental Evaluation and Comparative Analysis

The thermochemistry associated with the gas-phase proton affinity scale between acetaldehyde and methyl acetate has been reinvestigated by variable-temperature equilibrium measurements using pulsed electron beam high-pressure mass spectrometry. This experimentally difficult and sometimes kinetically inaccessible subset is particularly important since it provides the only bridge between the expansive lower and upper scales. Data were taken from 497 to 665 K, with an average temperature for all base pair combinations of 584 K. Special care was taken to ensure that the measurements accurately reflected both the ΔH° and ΔS° values within this temperature range. The present data indicate that earlier values from this laboratory within the same subset were expanded by ∼13% in both ΔG° and ΔH°, although no evidence was found for a similar expansion in our original ladder for bases with proton affinities above isobutene, which was used as the reference base in that study. A detailed analysis and comparison betwee...
Evidence-Based Clinical Voice Assessment: A Systematic Review

Purpose To determine what research evidence exists to support the use of voice measures in the clinical assessment of patients with voice disorders. Method The American Speech-Language-Hearing Asso...
The biopsied donor liver: Incorporating macrosteatosis into high‐risk donor assessment

To expand the donor liver pool, ways are sought to better define the limits of marginally transplantable organs. The Donor Risk Index (DRI) lists 7 donor characteristics, together with cold ischemia time and location of the donor, as risk factors for graft failure. We hypothesized that donor hepatic steatosis is an additional independent risk factor. We analyzed the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients for all adult liver transplants performed from October 1, 2003, through February 6, 2008, with grafts from deceased donors to identify donor characteristics and procurement logistics parameters predictive of decreased graft survival. A proportional hazard model of donor variables, including percent steatosis from higher-risk donors, was created with graft survival as the primary outcome. Of 21,777 transplants, 5051 donors had percent macrovesicular steatosis recorded on donor liver biopsy. Compared to the 16,726 donors with no recorded liver biopsy, the donors with biopsied livers had a higher DRI, were older and more obese, and a higher percentage died from anoxia or stroke than from head trauma. The donors whose livers were biopsied became our study group. Factors most strongly associated with graft failure at 1 year after transplantation with livers from this high-risk donor group were donor age, donor liver macrovesicular steatosis, cold ischemia time, and donation after cardiac death status. In conclusion, in a high-risk donor group, macrovesicular steatosis is an independent risk factor for graft survival, along with other factors of the DRI including donor age, donor race, donation after cardiac death status, and cold ischemia time.
Initial clinical experience with a new MRI vacuum‐assisted breast biopsy device

Purpose To report initial clinical experience with a new previously unreported vacuum-assisted device (EnCor MR, SenoRx, Aliso Viejo, CA) for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided breast biopsy and to compare this device with previously reported technologies. Materials and Methods A prospective study of MRI-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsies using the EnCor device was undertaken. Lesions targeted for biopsy were occult on mammography, ultrasound, and physical examination. Histologic results were obtained for all cases. Patients with benign, concordant results underwent clinical and imaging follow-up. Cases with discordant, high-risk, or malignant results were referred for surgical biopsy. Results A total of 55 biopsies were performed in 47 patients. All biopsies were technically successful. Histologic results yielded malignancy in 10 (10/55, 18%) of the 55 lesions and high-risk or atypical lesions in 7 (7/55, 13%) of the cases. All of these patients have had surgical follow-up, with four (4/55, 7%) underestimations. There were three (3/55, 5%) discordant cases. 35 (35/55, 64%) lesions yielded benign concordant results. Of these, six (6/35, 17%) lesions were removed surgically, with confirmation of the MR-guided biopsy results. Twenty (20/35, 57%) lesions have undergone at least 6-month follow-up MRI, with resolution or stability of the MRI findings. Conclusion The EnCor breast biopsy device has comparable results to those previously reported for other MRI-guided vacuum-assisted technologies. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008;28:900–905. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Sensing, Understanding, and Shaping Social Behavior

The ability to understand social systems through the aid of computational tools is central to the emerging field of computational social systems. Such understanding can answer epistemological questions on human behavior in a data-driven manner, and provide prescriptive guidelines for persuading humans to undertake certain actions in real-world social scenarios. The growing number of works in this subfield has the potential to impact multiple walks of human life including health, wellness, productivity, mobility, transportation, education, shopping, and sustenance. The contribution of this paper is twofold. First, we provide a functional survey of recent advances in sensing, understanding, and shaping human behavior, focusing on real-world behavior of users as measured using passive sensors. Second, we present a case study on how trust, which is an important building block of computational social systems, can be quantified, sensed, and applied to shape human behavior. Our findings suggest that: 1) trust can be operationalized and predicted via computational methods (passive sensing and network analysis) and 2) trust has a significant impact on social persuasion; in fact, it was found to be significantly more effective than the closeness of ties in determining the amount of behavior change.
Lack of Release of Cytochrome c from Mitochondria into Cytosol Early in the Course of Fas-mediated Apoptosis of Jurkat Cells

Abstract Several groups have reported that during apoptosis, cytochrome c is released from the mitochondria into the cytosol, but we have found that in apoptotic cells the cytochrome appears to remain with the mitochondria. In hopes of reconciling these findings, we compared the results obtained from cells disrupted by our method (nitrogen cavitation) with those obtained using the cell-disruption method employed by others (homogenization). We observed that at 2 h, cytochrome c levels in apoptotic cytosols from homogenized cells exceeded control levels, whereas cytochrome c levels in apoptotic cytosols fromcavitated cells were similar to control. Outer membranes of homogenized mitochondria appeared damaged because the mitochondria had become permeable to cytochrome c, whereas outer membranes of cavitated mitochondria excluded the cytochrome. 4 h after Fas ligation, both cavitated and homogenized mitochondria had released small amounts of cytochrome c into the cytosol, whereas after 6 h the cytochrome had disappeared from the cell lysate. We believe that the differences between our results and those reported by others were due to 1) our examining the cells after a short (2 h) incubation with the anti-Fas antibody, and 2) our use of nitrogen cavitation instead of homogenization to disrupt the cells.
The effects of iodination on the polypeptide heterogeneity of thyroglobulin.

Abstract 19 S thyroglobulins from several mammals were prepared under conditions designed to minimize endogenous proteolytic activities. The purified iodoproteins were then fractionated by RbCl isopycnic gradient centrifugation and fractions of varying iodine content analyzed by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The dependence on the iodination level of molecular dissociability, previously reported in preparations ‘markedly’ differing in their iodination degree, has been now ultimately assessed in all species investigated and demonstrated even for fractions differing from each other only by a few iodine atoms. Upon reduction fractions across the isopycnic gradients showed the occurrence of discrete electrophoretic bands faster than the 300000 Da subunit: the relative amount of these peptides has been found to be linearly related to the iodine content of the molecules analyzed. This behaviour has been observed in all animal species investigated. In conclusion, our data suggest that iodination, beside the well-documented effects on thyroglobulin conformational properties, may also affect its ‘apparent’ polypeptide chain composition. The origin of such heterogeneity is discussed.
Prediction of Functional Sites in 50,000 Protein Domains Using Dynamics Perturbation Analysis

Dynamics perturbation analysis (DPA) [1-3] finds regions in a protein structure where proteins are “ticklish,” i.e., where interactions cause a large change in protein dynamics. Such regions corresponded to native binding sites in a test set of hundreds of protein-ligand complexes [3]. We have further tested DPA for prediction of protein functional sites by applying an accelerated algorithm, Fast DPA [4], to over 50,000 structures of protein domains from the SCOP database [5]. We compared the predicted sites with known functional sites obtained from two sources: catalytic residues in the Catalytic Site Atlas; and putative binding sites identified by finding protein residues near small molecules in crystal structures. Combining predictions with information from sequence conservation and multiple sequence alignments reduced false positive rates. Overall, prediction of functional sites using DPA recapitulates much of the known information about functional sites in SCOP domains, and validates the use of DPA to predict functional sites in proteins. These results further suggest that functional sites in proteins tend to evolve at control points where interactions cause a large change in protein dynamics [1, 3].1. Ming D. and Wall M.E. Quantifying allosteric effects in proteins. 2005. Proteins 59:697-707.2. Ming D. and Wall M.E. Allostery in a coarse-grained model of protein dynamics. 2005. Phys Rev Lett 95:198301.3. Ming D. and Wall M.E. Interactions in native binding sites cause a large change in protein dynamics. 2006. J Mol Biol 358:213-223.4. Ming D., Cohn J.D. and Wall M.E. Fast dynamics perturbation analysis for prediction of functional sites. 2008. BMC Struct Biol 8:5.5. Murzin A.G., Brenner S.E., Hubbard T. and Chothia C. SCOP: a structural classification of proteins database for the investigation of sequences and structures. 1995. J Mol Biol 247:536-540.
Preservice Secondary Science Teachers’ Teaching and Reflections During a Teacher Education Program

The 39 preservice teachers (PSTs) who participated in this study were enrolled in a masters program for secondary science teacher certification. Initially they held broad ideas about teaching and learning gleaned from their own experiences. Guided by the program course work, some PSTs embraced the pedagogical approaches introduced in the program, applied them in their teaching, and reflected on the outcomes. Their reflections showed that they were focused on keeping all of their students interested in science and on student participation in the process of meaning-making. Some PSTs embraced the program goals but struggled to achieve them in teaching. Others focused on transmission of content and did not attempt to develop an environment of student agency. There were nine career-changer PSTs and most of them remained teacher-centered throughout the program. The implications of student- and teacher-centered approaches adopted by the PSTs and the rationales provided by them are discussed in the paper.
US climate change politics and policymaking

The United States is often identified as a global laggard on climate change policymaking and implementation. Although this reputation may be deserved by the US federal government, a look across all levels of the US federal political system and a multitude of political actors demonstrates the existence of a significant number of climate change and energy-related activities. This brief review of US climate change politics covers climate change policy support and opposition across different governance levels, involving legal and political activities and interactions of a large number of public, private, and civil society sector actors. It examines US federal climate change legislation and politics, and how activities in Washington, DC are connected to both international politics and domestic conditions and debates. This discussion is linked to state and municipal level climate change action, followed by a discussion of how activities of firms and advocacy groups and aspects of US public opinion shape US climate change politics. The review ends with a few concluding remarks about the future of US climate change policymaking and implementation. WIREs Clim Change 2011 2 121–127 DOI: 10.1002/wcc.94 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website