cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inactivation of the yeast Sen1 protein affects the localization of nucleolar proteins

A mutation in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae SEN1 gene causes accumulation of end-matured, intron-containing pre-tRNAs. Cells containing the thermosensitive sen1-1 mutation exhibit reduced tRNA splicing endonuclease activity. However, Sen1p is not the catalytic subunit of this enzyme. We have used Sen1p-specific antibodies for cell fractionation studies and immunofluorescent microscopy and determined that Sentp is a low abundance protein of about 239 kDa. It localizes to the nucleus with a granular distribution. We verified that a region in SEN1 containing a putative nuclear localization signal sequence (NLS) is necessary for nuclear targeting. Furthermore, we found that inactivation of Sen1p by temperature shift of a strain carrying sen1-1 leads to mislocalization of two nucleolar proteins, Nopt and Ssb1 Possible mechanisms are discussed for several related nuclear functions of Sen1p, including tRNA splicing and the maintenance of a normal crescent-shaped nucleolus.
Preference Factors in Experimental Alcoholism

Normal rats which refused 5-and 20-percent alcohol in a previous study were restricted to 5-percent and 20-percent solutions in their home cages for either 30 or 120 days. Differential preferences for alcohol solutions of up to 8-percent were established as a function of length of time animals consumed alcohol but not as a function of the particular concentration consumed prior to testing.
Atomistic simulation of fracture in CoAl and FeAl

Abstract The behavior of mode I cracks in CoAl and FeAl is investigated using molecular statics computer simulation methods with embedded atom (EAM) potentials developed by Vailhe and Farkas (not yet published). A double ended crack of finite size embedded in a cylindrical simulation cell and fixed boundary conditions are prescribed along the periphery of the cell, whereas periodic boundary conditions are imposed parallel to the crack front. The displacement field of the finite crack is represented by that of an equivalent pileup of opening dislocations distributed in a manner consistent with the anisotropy of the crystal and traction free conditions of the crack faces. The crack lies on the {110} plane and the crack front is located either along 〈100〉, 〈110〉 or 〈111〉 directions. Cleavage in found to occur in both materials for most crack orientations. In one orientation, cleavage in FeAl is found to occur concurrently with dislocation emission. The crack tip response is rationalized in terms of the surface energy ( γ s ) of the cleavage plane and the unstable stacking energies ( γ us ) of the slip planes emanating from the crack front.
Poor discriminatory function for endoscopic skills on a computer-based simulator.

Background Computer-based endoscopy simulators may enable trainees to learn and develop technical skills before performing on patients. Simulators require validation as adequate models of live endoscopy before being used for training or assessment purposes. Objective To evaluate content and criterion validity of the CAE EndoscopyVR Simulator colonoscopy and EGD modules as predictors of clinical endoscopic skills. Design Prospective, observational, non-randomized, parallel cohort study. Setting Single academic center with accredited gastroenterology training program. Participants Five novice first-year gastroenterology fellows and 6 expert gastroenterology attending physicians. Intervention Participants performed 18 simulated colonoscopies and 6 simulated EGDs. The simulator recorded objective performance parameters. Participants then completed feedback surveys. Main Outcome Measurements The 57 objective performance parameters measured by the endoscopy simulator were compared between the two study groups. Novice and expert survey responses were analyzed. Results Significant differences between novice and expert performance were detected in only 19 of 57 (33%) performance metrics. Eight of these 19 (42%) were time-related metrics, such as total procedure time, time to anatomic landmarks, and time spent in contact with GI mucosa. Of 49 non-time related measures, the few additional statistically significant differences between novices and experts involved air insufflation, sedation management, endoscope force, and patient comfort. These findings are of uncertain clinical significance. Survey data found multiple aspects of the simulation to be unrealistic compared with human endoscopy. Limitations Small sample size. Conclusion The CAE EndoscopyVR Simulator displays poor content and criterion validity and is thereby incapable of predicting skill during in vivo endoscopy.
U.S. household energy consumption and intensity trends: A decomposition approach ☆

Concerns over impacts from U.S. energy use on the environment, the economy and the national security warrant an understanding of the key drivers of energy consumption. This paper focuses on decomposing U.S. household energy consumption changes into several factors that have affected its growth. The interval analyzed is based on household surveys conducted by the U.S. Energy Information Administration from 1980 through 2005. Drivers of total household energy consumption, total household electricity consumption and natural gas use for space heating are analyzed and contrasted. While not definitive, sub-period analyses split at 1990, show greater reductions in energy intensity in the later sub-period and provide prima fascia evidence of the efficacy of U.S. efforts to promote energy efficiency through various standards and programs.
The generation of HCl in the system CaCl2-H2O: Vapor-liquid relations from 380–500 °C

Abstract We determined vapor-liquid relations (P-T-x) and derived critical parameters for the system CaCl2-H2O from 380–500 °C. Results show that the two-phase region of this system is extremely large and occupies a significant portion of the P-T space to which circulation of fluids in the Earth's crust is constrained. Results also show the system generates significant amounts of HCl (as much as 0.1 mol/kg) in the vapor phase buffered by the liquid at surprisingly high pressures (≤230 bars at 380 °C, ≤580 bars at 500 °C), presumably by hydrolysis of CaCl2: CaCl2 + 2H2O = Ca(OH)2 + 2HCl. We interpret the abundance of HCl in the vapor as due to its preference for the vapor phase, and by the preference of Ca(OH)2 for either the liquid phase or solid. The recent recognition of the abundance of CaCl2 in deep brines of the Earth's crust and their hydrothermal mobilization makes the hydrolysis of CaCl2 geologically important. The boiling of Ca-rich brines produces abundant HCl buffered by the presence of the liquid at moderate pressures. The resultant Ca(OH)2 generated by this process reacts with silicates to form a variety of alteration products, such as epidote, whereas the vapor produces acid-alteration of rocks through which it ascends.
Abstract B121: Ligand-independent AXL diversification of ErbB signaling and ErbB-targeted drug response mitigation in triple negative breast carcinoma cells.

The relationship between drug resistance, changes in signaling, and emergence of an invasive phenotype is well appreciated, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Recently, activation of alternative RTKs as an important resistance process has been identified, although underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Amplification of the targeted signal can also confer resistance, particularly in vivo, where access to the tumor site by therapeutics may be limited. AXL is an RTK linked to secondary resistance in a variety of solid cancers, including those of the breast, lung, glioma, prostate, and colon. Though AXL-mediated resistance is well appreciated, the most effective means of targeting the receptor and basic mechanisms of activation have not been elucidated. Using ligand-blocking antibodies, siRNA-mediated ligand knockdown, and ligand binding-incompetent mutants, we show ligand-independent activation of AXL is present in a subset of cell lines and that this form of activation is actively regulated by ectodomain interactions. With this in mind, we hypothesized ligand-independent mechanisms of activation may be predominant in particular contexts. Using cross-linking coimmunoprecipitation assays, we determined that AXL associated with EGFR, other ErbB receptor family members, MET, and PDGFR but not IGF1R or INSR. Activation of EGFR transactivated AXL, and this ligand-independent AXL activity diversified EGFR-induced signaling into additional downstream pathways beyond those triggered by EGFR alone. AXL-mediated signaling diversification amplified a subset of downstream signaling and was required for EGF-elicited motility responses in AXL-positive TNBC (triple-negative breast cancer) cells. This alternative mechanism of receptor activation may limit the utility of ligand-blocking therapeutic approaches and indicate against therapy withdrawal after acquired resistance. Inhibiting ligand-independent activation, in contrast, may provide more specific efficacy on cancer cells. Moreover, sub-additive interaction between EGFR- and AXL-targeted inhibitors across all AXL-positive TNBC cell lines may indicate that increased abundance of EGFR principally yields transactivation-mediated signaling. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2013;12(11 Suppl):B121. Citation Format: Aaron S. Meyer, Frank B. Gertler, Douglas A. Lauffenburger. Ligand-independent AXL diversification of ErbB signaling and ErbB-targeted drug response mitigation in triple negative breast carcinoma cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2013 Oct 19-23; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2013;12(11 Suppl):Abstract nr B121.
Participatory Student Field Guides and Excursions.

Abstract This paper discusses the motivation, implementation and impressions of involving students in written and oral field guide contributions in two geography classes. This approach is especially useful in situations where the instructor is knowledgeable about the area but not an authority, such as in the case of a recent appointment. Various aspects of the experience, including the superior quality of participatory field guides and excursions as compared with an exclusively instructor‐generated product, prove beneficial for those involved and for outside parties. Students also learn more from participating, obtain written and oral communication opportunities, and acquire self‐esteem through contributing.
Prostaglandin G/H synthase-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) mRNA expression is decreased in Alzheimer's disease

Recent evidence suggests that the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) is beneficial for therapy or prevention of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The major anti-inflammatory action of NSAIDS is to inhibit prostaglandin G/H synthase-2 (PGHS-2), the first committed enzymatic step for prostaglandin biosynthesis. We have previously shown that PGHS-2 message is induced by Interleukin-1 beta and other inflammatory mediators in primary cultures of rodent astrocytes. To determine whether similar elevations of PGHS-2 occur as part of the gliosis in AD, we quantified PGHS-2 mRNA levels in control and AD brain by Northern hybridization analysis. To our surprise we found that PGHS-2 mRNA levels were reduced threefold in AD neocortex relative to control brain tissue. In contrast, levels were not reduced in putamen, an area that is relatively spared in AD. To localize PGHS-2 mRNA production in control and AD brain, sections of neocortex and hippocampus were hybridized with a 35S-labeled riboprobe for human PGHS-2 followed by immunocytochemistry with antibodies against neuron specific enolase (NSE) or glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Our findings indicate that PGHS-2 message is primarily localized to cells that stain for NSE rather than GFAP. Furthermore, in the three cases we examined, PGHS-2 hybridization per neuron appeared to be reduced in AD. Thus, the decrease we observe in overall PGSH-2 mRNA levels is likely to reflect both the known decline in numbers of neurons in AD as well as a lowered capacity for neuronal synthesis of PGHS-2, perhaps due to dysfunction or a loss of synaptic input.
Light distributions in rooms.

Abstract A few unofficial terms used in the paper are as follows: pharos F = luminous flux (lumen), pharosage D = luminous flux density (lumen m−2), helios H = generalized brightness: H=π lim ω→0 D ω If D is in lumens per square meter and ω is in steradians, then H is expressed in blondels. The above names are proposed international words, designed to reduce ambiguity in scientific terminology and to do their humble bit toward world understanding and cooperation.
Mass mortality of Diadema antillarum on the Caribbean coast of Panama

The ecologically important sea urchin Diadema antillarum suffered mass mortalities in 1983, first noted in Panama and then reported from the rest of the Caribbean. We documented the effects of this mortality at two localities on the Atlantic coast of Panama, Punta Galeta and the San Blas Archipelago. At Punta Galeta, affected by the mortality in January 1983, the numbers of D. antillarum changed from an estimated 14,000 per ha in June 1982 to 0.5 per ha in May 1983; by February 1984 they had increased to 38 per ha. In the San Blas, where mass mortality started in April 1983, the number of D. antillarum in permanent quadrats on 8 reefs was reduced by an average of 94.2%. The average reduction in population density measured in transects on nine reefs was 98.9%. Data taken in permanent quadrats on four reefs in 1978, 1979 and 1980 indicate that population fluctuations of D. antillarum are normally much smaller, justifying the labeling of the 1983 event as “mass mortality”. Size structure of the San Blas populations was also affected; mean test diameter of D. antillarum on four reefs was reduced from 48.6 mm to 25.0 mm. Other echinoids (Echinometra viridis, E. lucunter, Lytechinus variegatus, L. williamsi, Eucidaris tribuloides, Tripneustes ventricosus, Clypeaster rosaceus and Echinoneus cyclostomus) suffered no ill effects at either Galeta or the San Blas; their population densities remained stable or increased. Density determinations of Diadema mexicanum at the island of Taboguilla on the Pacific side of Panama indicate that Diadema mass mortality did not extend to the eastern Pacific. Sea surface temperatures, tidal levels, rainfall and salinity showed no abnormal fluctuations during the time of D. antillarum mass mortality at Galeta, suggesting that mortality was not due to physical stress. The wide geographical spread and species-specificity of the mortality suggest a water-borne pathogen as the most likely causative agent. Recovery of D. antillarum populations is likely to be slow because there are few, if any, unaffected populations in the Caribbean to contribute larvae for the recolonization of depleted areas. The absence of D. antillarum will probably be reflected by changes in the algal, coral and echinoid communities, and by altered patterns of bioerosion.
Consideration of the bulk impurity effect in surface self-diffusion measurements

Abstract In summary this has been an attempt to review some of the experimental parameters that determine the role which bulk impurities can play in altering surface self-diffusion kinetics. Some particular observations of various surface self-diffusion experiments have been examined in terms of a bulk impurity effect and it has been shown that such results would indeed be predicted by invoking a bulk impurity effect. The especially important parameters which result in an increased contribution from bulk impurities are seen to be the experimental scale-factor and/or temperature range of the experiments. Thus, a general effect due to bulk impurities can be considered which does not require invoking special mechanisms to discuss variations of results occurring over wide temperature ranges and or between separate experimental techniques.
Activation of beta-adrenergic receptors stimulates taurine release from glial cells.

1. Activation of adrenergic receptors in primary cultures of astrocytes and LRM55 glial cells stimulates taurine release. 2. Release is inhibited by theβ-adrenergic antagonists alprenolol and propanolol but not by theα-adrenergic antagonist phentolamine. 3. Receptor-mediated taurine release occurs via a specific mechanism, since efflux of other amino acids and metabolites is not affected by theβ-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol.
Incidence, predictors, and outcomes of hemodynamic instability following carotid angioplasty and stenting.

Objective To explore the incidence, predictors, and outcomes of hemodynamic instability (HI) following carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS). Methods We retrospectively evaluated data on 257 CAS procedures performed in 245 patients from 2002 to 2011 at a single institution. The presence of periprocedural HI, as defined by hypertension (systolic blood pressure >160 mm Hg), hypotension (systolic blood pressure Results Mean age was 70.9 ± 9.9 years (67% male). HI occurred following 84% (n = 216) of procedures. The incidence of hypertension, hypotension, and bradycardia was 54%, 31%, and 60%, respectively. Sixty-three percent of cases involved CS-HI. Recent stroke was an independent risk factor for the development of CS-HI (odds ratio, 5.24; confidence interval, 1.28-21.51; P = .02), whereas baseline chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was protective against CS-HI (odds ratio, 0.34; confidence interval, 0.15-0.80; P = .01). Patients with CS-HI were more likely to experience periprocedural stroke compared to other patients (8% vs 1%; P = .03). There were no significant differences in the incidence of mortality or other major complications between those with and without CS-HI. Conclusions HI represents a common occurrence following CAS. While the presence of periprocedural HI alone did not portend a worse clinical outcome, CS-HI was associated with increased risk of stroke. Expeditious intervention to prevent and manage CS-HI is of critical importance in order to minimize adverse clinical events following CAS.
Biochemical and molecular basis of thimerosal-induced apoptosis in T cells: a major role of mitochondrial pathway

The major source of thimerosal (ethyl mercury thiosalicylate) exposure is childhood vaccines. It is believed that the children are exposed to significant accumulative dosage of thimerosal during the first 2 years of life via immunization. Because of health-related concerns for exposure to mercury, we examined the effects of thimerosal on the biochemical and molecular steps of mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis in Jurkat T cells. Thimerosal and not thiosalcylic acid (non-mercury component of thimerosal), in a concentration-dependent manner, induced apoptosis in T cells as determined by TUNEL and propidium iodide assays, suggesting a role of mercury in T cell apoptosis. Apoptosis was associated with depolarization of mitochondrial membrane, release of cytochrome c and apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) from the mitochondria, and activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3, but not of caspase-8. In addition, thimerosal in a concentration-dependent manner inhibited the expression of XIAP, cIAP-1 but did not influence cIAP-2 expression. Furthermore, thimerosal enhanced intracellular reactive oxygen species and reduced intracellular glutathione (GSH). Finally, exogenous glutathione protected T cells from thimerosal-induced apoptosis by upregulation of XIAP and cIAP1 and by inhibiting activation of both caspase-9 and caspase-3. These data suggest that thimerosal induces apoptosis in T cells via mitochondrial pathway by inducing oxidative stress and depletion of GSH.
High-strength graphite fibre/lithium aluminosilicate composites

Graphite fibre/lithium aluminosilicate composites of matrix composition Li2O Al2O3·nSiO2 wheren=3, 4, and 8, have been developed with a high volume fraction of undirectionally aligned graphite fibres. Graphite fibre/ceramic matrix tapes were produced on a drumwinding apparatus and hot-pressed to final dimensions. This composite system exhibits a combination of useful properties, including high strength, low density, excellent thermal shock resistance and impact strength. Shear strength, cyclic modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity and optical and electron microscopic evaluation of microstructure are discussed. Modulus of rupture as a function of vol % fibres was studied. The high modulus of rupture and impact strength are discussed in terms of the relative properties of fibre and matrix.
Regular and irregular splashing of drops on geometric targets

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Accuracy of self-reports of fecal occult blood tests and test results among individuals in the carpentry trade

Abstract Background Inaccuracy in self-reports of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening procedures (e.g., over- or underreporting) may interfere with individuals adhering to appropriate screening intervals, and can blur the true effects of physician recommendations to screen and the effects of interventions designed to promote screening. We assessed accuracy of self-report of having a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) within a 1-year window based on receipt of FOBT kits among individuals aged 50 and older in the carpentry trade ( N = 658) who were off-schedule for having had a FOBT. Method Indices of evaluating accuracy of self-reports (concordance, specificity, false-positive and false-negative rates) were calculated relative to receipt of a mailed FOBT. Among those who mailed a completed FOBT, we assessed accuracy of reporting the test result. Results Participants underestimated having performed a FOBT (false-negative rate of 44%). Accuracy was unrelated to perceptions of getting or worrying about CRC or family history. Self-reports of having a negative FOBT result more consistently matched the laboratory result (specificity 98%) than having a positive test result (sensitivity 63%). Conclusions Contrary to other findings, participants under- rather than overreported FOBT screening. Results suggest greater efforts are needed to enhance accurate recall of FOBT screening.
Misuse of DeLong test to compare AUCs for nested models

The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC of ROC) is a widely used measure of discrimination in risk prediction models. Routinely, the Mann-Whitney statistics is used as an estimator of AUC, while the change in AUC is tested by the DeLong test. However, very often, in settings where the model is developed and tested on the same dataset, the added predictor is statistically significantly associated with the outcome but fails to produce a significant improvement in the AUC. No conclusive resolution exists to explain this finding. In this paper, we will show that the reason lies in the inappropriate application of the DeLong test in the setting of nested models. Using numerical simulations and a theoretical argument based on generalized U-statistics, we show that if the added predictor is not statistically significantly associated with the outcome, the null distribution is non-normal, contrary to the assumption of DeLong test. Our simulations of different scenarios show that the loss of power because of such a misuse of the DeLong test leads to a conservative test for small and moderate effect sizes. This problem does not exist in cases of predictors that are associated with the outcome and for non-nested models. We suggest that for nested models, only the test of association be performed for the new predictors, and if the result is significant, change in AUC be estimated with an appropriate confidence interval, which can be based on the DeLong approach.
The YYRR box: a conserved dipyrimidine-dipurine sequence element in Drosophila and other eukaryotes

We have discovered a novel DNA sequence element in Drosophila which is based upon a CTGA tandem repeat. This element has been named the YYRR box to emphasize its dipyrimidine-dipurine nature which is predicted to have unusual structural features. Southern hybridization analysis of genomic DNA indicates the presence of 25-30 copies of the YYRR box in each of three Drosophila species (melanogaster, pseudoobscura, and virilis) and conservation of genomic location within species. Similar analysis of human and rat DNA indicates the presence of YYRR related sequences in mammals as well. YYRR boxes have been localized to two genetic loci in Drosophila: Gld and a gene tentative identified as ted. These two genes exhibit correlated patterns of developmental expression and an identical mutant phenotype. Sequence analysis of the Gld YYRR box in three Drosophila species revealed a high degree of conservation despite its intronic location.
The nuclear synthesis of ribosomes in cell cultures

Abstract Ribonucleoprotein particles have been prepared from isolated nuclei of cultured tobacco cells. These particles possess a chemical composition similar to that of ribosomes and contain particles which possess a sedimentation coefficient of 80 S. These particles, nuclear ribosomes, are of intranuclear origin and are not the result of contamination with cytoplasmic elements. They do not, in the state in which they are present in the nucleus, support protein synthesis but are rather the products of protein synthesis within the nucleus. They appear to be unfinished precursors of the functional ribosomes of the cytoplasm.
DETERMINING THE SOURCES OF ERROR IN A TRANSLATION FROM SENTENCE TO EQUATION

checking the equation, failure to base the equation on the meaning of the sentence, and use of nonalgebraic symbols. Students could successfully check when prompted. After a 10-minute classroom intervention on the need for basing the equation on sentence meaning and for checking, immediate success was nearly 100%. A discussion suggests ways to ensure lasting effects. The ability to translate sentences into algebraic relationships figures heavily among the problem-solving skills required in quantitative science courses and mathematics courses in secondary school and college. The use of algebra, in particular, always starts with nonalgebraic formulations of problems. Algebra textbooks, however, place their greatest emphasis on the development of mechanical skill; an equation is given, and the problem is to work with the equation. It is possible, therefore, to develop such skills as graphing or solving simultaneous equations without developing skill in using algebra to describe and predict natural phenomena. Indeed, recent research suggests that this state of affairs may be common.
On the error in a certain interpolation formula and in the Gaussian integration formula

We first prove a basic theorem that if a set of polynomials satisfies an orthogonality relation with respect to integration, the set also satisfies an orthogonality relation with respect to summation. This result is then used to derive the Gaussian quadrature formula. The orthogonality relations give rise to interpolation formulas and a connection between the coefficients in these interpolation formulas is established. Finally, the analysis is used to get an estimate of the error in the Gaussian quadrature formula. Some error coefficients are evaluated in the cases where the orthogonal polynomials are those of Jacobi, Laguerre, Hermite and Bessel.
Advantages of a Combined Approach to Recanalization Therapy

To the Editor: We agree with Ciccone et al’s article regarding the myths of arterial therapy1 and Mattle’s accompanying editorial2 that advocates further controlled trials involving endovascular strategies in acute stroke. IV recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) therapy remains the standard of care for patients presenting within 3 hours of symptom onset. Yet, whereas 13% to 21% of patients will have recanalization of middle cerebral artery occlusions during the first hour of IV rt-PA treatment,3,4 patients with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) of 10 or greater often have …
Effects of parathyroid hormone-related peptide on adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate and ornithine decarboxylase in a human colonic cell line.

PTH-related peptide (PTHrP) is widely distributed in normal tissues, including the gut, and is considered a potential autocrine or paracrine regulator of cellular growth and differentiation. With this in mind, a human colonic cell line (LoVo) was used to study the effect of PTHrP on ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), because ODC is known to have profound effects on the growth and differentiation of many cell types via stimulation of synthesis of polyamines. cAMP also was measured, because this second messenger has been implicated in the regulation of ODC activity. Nearly confluent LoVo cells, grown in F-12 medium and 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), were preincubated in 1% FBS for at least 5 h, and then PTHrP-(1-34) was added, and the incubation was continued for up to 6 h. Cell extracts were analyzed for ODC activity by measuring 14CO2 liberated from 14C-labeled ornithine, for cAMP by RIA, and for ODC mRNA by Northern analysis. PTHrP produced dose-related increases in both cAMP (2- to 3-fold) and ODC (3- to 5-f...
Mechanisms underlying modulation of monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1) by somatostatin in human intestinal epithelial cells

Somatostatin (SST), an important neuropeptide of the gastrointestinal tract has been shown to stimulate sodium chloride absorption and inhibit chloride secretion in the intestine. However, the effe...
Directed Evolution of DNA Polymerases for Next Generation Sequencing

We present the application of an activity-based phage display method to identify DNA polymerases tailored for next generation sequencing applications. Using this approach, we identify a mutant of Taq DNA polymerase that incorporates the fluorophore-labeled dA, dT, dC, and dG substrates ~50 to 400-fold more efficiently into scarred primers in solution and that also demonstrates significantly improved performance under actual sequencing conditions.
Consistent Chromosome Abnormalities in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Vulva

Six squamous cell carcinomas of the vulva (SCV) were karyotyped in short-term culture and in early passages as established cell lines. Each tumor was cytogenetically distinct, contained multiple chromosome rearrangements, and was karyotypically stable in culture. Heterogeneity within individual tumors was manifested by the presence of more than one clonal population, but the clones within each tumor were closely related to one another. Seven consistent chromosome abnormalities found in five of the six tumors were: losses of 3p 14-cen, 8pter-p 11, 22q 13.1 -q 13.2, and the short arm of the inactive X; chromosome gains involving 3q25-qter and 11 q21; and rearrangement breakpoints at 5cen-q 12. Ten additional chromosome changes were observed in four of the six SCVs, and together, 22 changes occurred in at least three of the tumors. Two specific losses, 10q23-q25 and 18q22-q23, were present in all four tumors that exhibited biologically aggressive behavior in vivo, but these losses were not found in the tumors of the two long-term survivors. These findings indicate that: 1) SCVs are genetically complex, but homogeneous; 2) loss of 18q22-q23 and loss of 10q23-q25 may be associated with a poor prognosis; and 3) development and progression of SCV appear to result from cumulative effects of altered gene dosage at multiple, consistent loci.
Temporary Muscle Paralysis for Accurate Measurement of Pulmonary Artery Occlusion Pressure

Succinylcholine, a short-acting neuromuscular blocking agent, was used to accurately measure the pulmonary artery occlusion pressure (PAOP) in eight patients requiring mechanical ventilation for acute respiratory failure, in whom measurement was difficult because of significant respiratory variation in PAOP. The mean decrease in PAOP after paralysis was 9.8 ± 5.3 mm Hg, with a range of 4 to 20 mm Hg (p
The ground state of H2CO

Abstract The analysis of high resolution spectra of H 2 CO in the 3.5 μ region reveals that the observed combination differences with Δ K a = 2 for K a > 5 do not agree with the energy level differences calculated from the microwave-determined ground state constants. The present study combines the reported microwave data with averaged combination differences from five infrared bands to obtain new ground state constants of the Watson Hamiltonian (all in MHz): A = 281966.69 (49), B = 38835.428 (4), C = 34005.732 (4), τ aaaa = − 82.0 (1), τ bbbb = − 0.3887 (3), τ cccc = − 0.2218 (3), τ 1 = − 6.069 (5), τ 2 = − 0.7777 (6), H K = + 0.00153 (29), h JK = + 5.09 (1.67) × 10 −6 , and h K = + 0.001595 (95).
Assessing the state of the art in edge detection: 1992

Hoping the reader will not find the title overly pompous, we offer a brief and decidedly informal view of the state of the edge detection art, as we see it, in early 1992. We make no claim to clairvoyance, nor even to being especially insightful. But we have looked over the recent literature and made some attempt to evaluate where we are as a community with respect to this most ubiquitous problem and where we should be headed. We also briefly summarize the work of this session and our own recent contributions to compare the spectrum of philosophies represented to the community at large. This paper should be taken in the spirit in which it was written, which is to say not too seriously. Our aim is by no means frivolous, but we did try to have a little fun while dabbling as futurists. The ultimate goal of this paper is to stimulate some interesting interchange not so much on the `how to' of edge detection as on the `what next.'© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Comparison of Quantitative RT-PCR with Cell Culture to Detect Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus (VHSV) IVb Infections in the Great Lakes

Viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV) is an important pathogen of cultured and wild fish in marine and freshwater environments. A new genotype, VHSV IVb, was isolated from a fish collected from the Great Lakes in 2003. Since the first isolation, VHSV IVb has been confirmed in 28 species, signaling the early invasion and continued spread of this Office International des Epizooties-reportable agent. For surveillance of this virus in both wild and experimental settings, we have developed a rapid and sensitive one-step quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay that amplifies a 100-base-pair conserved segment from both the genomic negative strand and the mRNA positive strand of the nucleoprotein (N) gene of VHSV IVb. This assay is linear over seven orders of magnitude, with an analytical capability of detecting a single copy of viral RNA and reproducibility at 100 copies. The assay is approximately linear with RNA input from 50 to 1000 ng per assay and works equally well with RNA prepared from a column-based or phenol-chloroform-based method. In wild-caught fish, 97% of the cases were found to be more than three orders of magnitude more sensitive using qRT-PCR than using cell culture. Of the 1,428 fish from the Great Lakes region tested in 2006 and 2007, 24% were positive by qRT-PCR whereas only 5% were positive by cell culture. All of the fish that were positive by cell culture were also positive by qRT-PCR. Importantly, qRT-PCR sensitivity is comparable to that of cell culture detection when comparing VHSV viral RNA levels with viral titer stocks, confirming that the high qRT-PCR signals obtained with diagnostic samples are due to the accumulation of N gene mRNA by transcriptional attenuation. The qRT-PCR assay is particularly valuable for rapid and high-throughput prescreening of fish before confirmatory testing by cell culture or sequencing tissue-derived amplicons and especially in detecting infection in fish that do not show clinical signs of VHS.
The pericardium and cardiac function

T HE object of this review can conveniently be divided into three major areas: (1) normal physiology, i.e., the role played by the pericardium in cardiac function in the subject without disease of the heart or pericardium; (2) the contribution of the pericardium to abnormalities of cardiac function when the heart is diseased or working under abnormal loading conditions; and (3) the effects of diseases of the pericardium on cardiac function.
Giant foxtail (Setaria faberi) outcrossing and inheritance of resistance to acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase inhibitors

Abstract Gene flow via pollen and inheritance of acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase (ACCase) inhibitor resistance in giant foxtail have not been previously characterized. Therefore, experiments were conducted to quantify outcrossing rates and flowering periods of giant foxtail accessions resistant or susceptible to ACCase inhibitors and to determine the inheritance pattern of gene(s) that confer resistance. In greenhouse experiments, outcrossing rates between resistant and susceptible parents ranged from 0.24 to 0.73%, as gauged by the response of F1 plants to fluazifop-P. Resistant plants and susceptible plants flowered at similar times, with peak flowering occurring 63 to 67 d after planting. During this period, flower initiation was nearly twice as great for resistant plants as for susceptible plants. In inheritance experiments F2 plants segregated in a 1:2:1 ratio of resistant–intermediate–susceptible phenotypes after exposure to fluazifop-P, indicating that resistance was associated with a single nuclear,...
Survey for viruses of grapevine in oregon and washington

Grapevines (Vitis spp.) in Washington and Oregon were surveyed for the prevalence of key grapevine viruses. Samples collected from 1,522 vines in Washington were tested for Rupestris stem pitting associated virus (RSPaV), Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV), Arabis mosaic virus (ArMV), Tomato ringspot virus (ToRSV), and Grapevine leafroll associated virus-3 (GLRaV-3). Tests were also conducted for GLRaV-1 and -2 on 420 samples from Washington. Two hundred forty samples collected from wine grape vineyards in Oregon were tested for GLRaV-1, -2, and -3, and an additional 2,880 samples were collected from 40 vineyards known to have high populations of Xiphinema americanum nematodes. The latter were tested for ArMV, ToRSV, and GFLV. GLRaV-1, -2, and -3 were detected in 2.6, 0.2, and 6.5% of the Washington samples and in 3.0, 0.4, and 4.4% of the Oregon samples. RSPaV was detected in 4.6% of the samples from Washington. No ToRSV, ArMV, or GFLV was detected in any of the samples from Oregon or Washington. Transmission of field isolates of GLRaV-3 from Washington by the grape mealybug also was demonstrated.
AIDS policy responsiveness in Africa: Evidence from opinion surveys

As a result of massive scale-up efforts in developing countries, millions of people living with HIV are now receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, countries have been uneven in their scale-up efforts with ART coverage rates exceeding expectations in some places and lagging behind expectation in others. This paper develops a model that explains ART scale-up as a function of the responsiveness of political parties to their primary constituents. Specifically, the paper argues that, faced with a perilous ‘threat to the nation’, countries responded in one of two ways, both of which were designed to appeal to their primary constituents – either adopting a ‘Geneva Consensus’ response, or depicting the epidemic as a Western disease and adopting a ‘pan-African’ response. The article tests this theory using Afrobarometer data for eleven countries. The paper finds that HIV/AIDS is generally a non-partisan issue in most countries. However, the analysis does uncover some differences in partisan support for H...
GMM estimation of spatial autoregressive models with unknown heteroskedasticity

Abstract In the presence of heteroskedastic disturbances, the MLE for the SAR models without taking into account the heteroskedasticity is generally inconsistent. The 2SLS estimates can have large variances and biases for cases where regressors do not have strong effects. In contrast, GMM estimators obtained from certain moment conditions can be robust. Asymptotically valid inferences can be drawn with consistently estimated covariance matrices. Efficiency can be improved by constructing the optimal weighted estimation. The approaches are applied to the study of county teenage pregnancy rates. The empirical results show a strong spatial convergence among county teenage pregnancy rates.
The challenges of nutrition policymaking.

In my over three decades of work in the field of food and nutrition, I have participated in many efforts that seek new policy initiatives in the hopes that these programs can curb rates of obesity and chronic disease and help consumers make healthier dietary choices. Because of the profound effect that many of these policies have on consumers, the food environment, federal nutrition assistance programs and subsequent policy and regulatory recommendations, it is imperative that only the strongest, best available evidence is used to set policy. This review evaluates methods by which current nutrition policies use scientific research as well as provides recommendations for how best to ensure future nutrition policies are truly science-based and likely to have a meaningful impact on public health. Specifically, this review will:
Parameterisation of observers for time delay systems and its application in observer design

The paper addresses the design of observers for systems with time delay. A factorisation approach is used to parameterise all observers for such systems. The necessary and sufficient condition of existence for observers is obtained. Based on the results in the parameterisation of observers, the estimation error dynamics is also parametrised. A design example is given to illustrate the proposed parameterisation procedure.
A Fully Integrated 0.13- $\mu$ m CMOS Digital Low-IF DBS Satellite Tuner Using a Ring Oscillator-Based Frequency Synthesizer

A low-IF fully integrated tuner for DBS satellite TV applications has been realized in 0.13-mum CMOS. A wideband ring oscillator-based frequency synthesizer having a large frequency step was used to downconvert a cluster of channels to a sliding low-IF frequency, while the second downconversion to baseband was performed in the digital domain. Eliminating the inductors and using a small-area oscillator has reduced both the parasitic magnetic and substrate coupling, allowing single-chip integration of the sensitive tuner and the noisy digital demodulator. A significant reduction in die area was achieved by using a single oscillator to cover the entire satellite TV spectrum, while a noise attenuator was cascaded with the PLL passive loop filter to reduce the equivalent VCO tuning gain. This improves PLL noise and spur performance and allows the on-chip integration of the loop filter. The digital low-IF tuner allows the use of a discrete step AGC loop that results in lower noise figure and higher linearity. Automatic signal path gain and bandwidth digital calibration was realized using replica ring oscillators. Tuner specifications include: 90 dB gain range, 10 dB noise figure at max gain, +25dBm IIP3 at min gain, 1.3deg rms integrated phase noise, <-50dBc spurs, 0.5-W power consumption from dual 1.8/3.3-V supplies, and 1.8times1.2 mm2 die area
Ink-jetted Silver/Copper conductors for printed RFID applications

Low-resistance printed conductors are crucial for the development of ultra-low cost electronic systems such as radio frequency identification tags. Low resistance conductors are required to enable the fabrication of high-Q inductors, capacitors, tuned circuits, and interconnects. Furthermore, conductors of appropriate workfunction are also required to enable fabrication of printed Schottky diodes, necessary for rectification in RFID circuits. Last year, we demonstrated the formation of low-resistance conductive printed structures using gold nanoparticles. Here we demonstrate, for the first time, technologies for formation of printed conductors using silver and copper nanoparticles. These are particularly advantageous for several reasons. First, both silver and copper offer a 2X reduction in sheet resistance over gold, resulting in improved interconnect performance and inductor Q. Second, the material costs associated with both silver and copper are expected to be significantly cheaper than gold. Third, the workfunction of silver enables the fabrication of all-printed Schottky diodes with a silver rectifying contact to many common printable organic semiconductors. Solutions of organic-encapsulated silver and copper nanoparticles may be printed and subsequently annealed to form low-resistance conductor patterns. We describe novel processes for forming silver and copper nanoparticles, and discuss the optimization of the printing/annealing processes to demonstrate plastic-compatible low-resistance conductors. By optimizing both the size of the nanoparticle and the encapsulant sublimation kinetics, it is possible to produce particles that anneal at low-temperatures (<150 °C) to form continuous films having low resistivity and appropriate workfunction for formation of rectifying contacts. This represents a major component required for all- printed RFID.
Phase behavior and superprotonic conductivity in the Cs1−xRbxH2PO4 and Cs1−xKxH2PO4 systems

The solid acid compound CsH2PO4 (CDP) adopts a cubic structure of high conductivity above 228 °C, rendering it attractive as a fuel cell electrolyte for intermediate temperature operation. This superprotonic phase is stable from the phase transition temperature, Ts, to the dehydration temperature, Td, where the latter depends on water vapor pressure (e.g. Td = 290 °C at pH2O = 0.8 atm). In this work we examine the possibility of modifying these temperatures and thereby, amongst other characteristics, fuel cell operating conditions by introduction of Rb and K as substituents for Cs in CDP. The phase behavior of the Cs1−xRbxH2PO4 and Cs1−xKxH2PO4 pseudo-binary systems are determined by in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermal analysis. It is found that RbH2PO4 (RDP) and CDP are entirely miscible both below and above the transition to the cubic phase. With increasing Rb concentration, Ts increases and Td decreases. In contrast, K has limited solubility in CDP, with a 27 at.% solubility limit in the cubic phase, and both Ts and Td decrease with K content. The eutectoid temperature in the Cs1−xKxH2PO4 system is 208 ± 2 °C and the K solubility decreases sharply below this temperature. In both systems, conductivity decreases monotonically with increasing substituent concentration. Furthermore, even after normalization for cation size, the impact of K is greater than that of Rb, suggesting local disruptions to the proton migration pathway, beyond global changes in unit cell volume. Although this investigation shows unmodified CDP to remain the optimal fuel cell electrolyte material, the study provides a possible framework for elucidating proton transport mechanisms in superprotonic conductors.