cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Systematic profiling of poly(A)+ transcripts modulated by core 3' end processing and splicing factors reveals regulatory rules of alternative cleavage and polyadenylation.

Alternative cleavage and polyadenylation (APA) results in mRNA isoforms containing different 3’ untranslated regions (3’UTRs) and/or coding sequences. How core cleavage/polyadenylation (C/P) factors regulate APA is not well understood. Using siRNA knockdown coupled with deep sequencing, we found that several C/P factors can play significant roles in 3’UTR-APA. Whereas Pcf11 and Fip1 enhance usage of proximal poly(A) sites (pAs), CFI-25/68, PABPN1 and PABPC1 promote usage of distal pAs. Strong cis element biases were found for pAs regulated by CFI-25/68 or Fip1, and the distance between pAs plays an important role in APA regulation. In addition, intronic pAs are substantially regulated by splicing factors, with U1 mostly inhibiting C/P events in introns near the 5’ end of gene and U2 suppressing those in introns with features for efficient splicing. Furthermore, PABPN1 inhibits expression of transcripts with pAs near the transcription start site (TSS), a property possibly related to its role in RNA degradation. Finally, we found that groups of APA events regulated by C/P factors are also modulated in cell differentiation and development with distinct trends. Together, our results support an APA code where an APA event in a given cellular context is regulated by a number of parameters, including relative location to the TSS, splicing context, distance between competing pAs, surrounding cis elements and concentrations of core C/P factors.
Pollution and the Planetary Albedo

Addition of cloud nuclei by pollution can lead to an increase in the solar radiation reflected by clouds. The reflection of solar energy by clouds already may have been increased by the addition of man-made cloud nuclei. The albedo of a cloud is proportional to optical thickness for thin clouds, but changes more slowly with increasing thickness. The optical thickness is increased when the number of cloud nuclei is increased. Although the changes are small, the long-term effect on climate can be profound.
Spiritual Maturation and Religious Behaviors in Christian University Students

Spiritual maturation processes of internalization and questing were assessed at a Christian university to determine their relationship to year in school and certain religious behaviors. This was a first step toward the development of a new model of Christian higher education that will intentionally facilitate spiritual maturation. A group of 179 university students, ranging in age from 17 to 25 years and representing all four undergraduate classes, completed measures of spiritual maturation. The group of 75 males and 104 females professing Christian faith completed the Quest Scale (Batson & Schoenrade, 1991), Religious Orientation Scale (Gorsuch & McPherson, 1989), and Christian Religious Internalization Scale (Ryan, Rigby, & King, 1993). Multivariate analysis of variance and multiple regression statistical procedures were used to assess these spiritual maturation processes across year in school, gender, upper and lower class status, and religious behavior levels. The study found that year in school and c...
Single center experience on eversion versus standard carotid endarterectomy: a prospective non-randomized study.

Background and purpose: The prospective studies that have compared the outcomes of eversion and standard longitudinal carotid endarcterectomy (CEA) have been few and small and available data to reach definitive conclusions are still scarce. This prospective, non-randomized study sought to compare eversion and standard CEA for early and late mortality and morbidity and the incidence of late restenosis. Methods: Between 1992 and 1997, we performed 2806 CEAs in 2469 patients (2124 eversion CEAs in 1859 patients and 682 standard CEAs in 610 patients). All patients underwent preoperative neurological examination and cervical duplex scanning. Patients were followed up by neurological evaluation and duplex scanning at 1 and 6 months after CEA, and yearly afterwards. Results: Demographics and neurologic inidications for CEA were similar in both groups. Mean clamping time was shorter in the eversion CEA group (13.5±6.1 vs 19.9±19.1 min, P<0.001). Early (30-day) postoperative mortality due to major stroke was lower after eversion CEA (10/2124 vs 9/682, P=0.037), as well as total cardiovascular mortality (16/2124 vs 12/682, P=0.038). Early carotid occlusion was more frequent in standard CEA group (12/2124 vs 11/682, P=0.017), as well as total early morbidity (112/2124 vs 53/682, P<0.001). During follow-up (mean 56 months, range 6–92), restenosis rate was lower in the eversion CEA group (0.5 vs 1.8%, P=0.006). Conclusions: Our data indicate that eversion CEA as compared to standard CEA technique is associated with lower total cardiovascular perioperative mortality and mortality due to major stroke, shorter clamping time, lower early occlusion rate, and lower late restenosis rate.
Seasonal protein dynamics in Alaskan arctic tundra soils

Abstract In the arctic tundra of Alaska, plant growth is limited by N supply, especially in tussock tundra. Because proteins are the predominant form of soil organic N, proteolysis is considered to be the rate-limiting step in both the release of amino acids and in N mineralization. To help understand the controls on N availability in tundra soils, and to determine whether proteolysis is controlled by enzyme activity or by substrate availability, we measured soil protein concentrations, and proteolysis rates with and without added protein, every 1–2 weeks through the summer of 2000 and twice in the summer of 2001. Protease activity with added protein (‘potential’) was higher than without added protein (‘actual’). However, differences between the two tended to be driven by relatively brief peaks in potential protease activity. In fact, actual and potential rates were usually similar, suggesting that much of the time proteolysis was not limited by substrate availability, but rather by enzyme activity. Our data suggest that protease activity was actually only substrate limited at the times when it was highest. Potential rates peaked at the same times that soluble proteins were also high. These increases in protease activity and soluble protein concentrations occurred when soil amino acid and NH 4 + concentrations were at their lowest, drawn down by the seasonal peaks in root growth. The fact that the peaks in protease activity coincided with the peak in soil amino acid and NH 4 + demand strongly suggests that proteolysis was stimulated by high soil amino acid demand, and resulted in increases in soluble protein concentrations caused by the solubilization of larger proteins.
An examination of the resurgence of ethnicity literature

This paper presents a critical review of the most frequently cited resurgence of ethnicity studies. Many of the sources cited in recently published ethnic relations books are found to lack an empirical base. They are essentially polemical, impressionistic and anecdotal works. Empirical studies that support the resurgence of ethnicity theme are also examined. Their shortcomings are noted. Nevertheless, these empirical studies provide convincing evidence that ethnic differences persist into the later generations. Overall, however, the empirical studies overwhelmingly document increasing assimilation. Virtually no evidence is found for the notion of a third generation resurgence.
The differential reactivity of octahydridosilsesquioxane on Si(1 0 0)-2×1 and Si(1 1 1)-7×7: a comparative experimental study

Abstract Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), in conjunction with X-ray photoemission (XPS) and reflection-absorption infrared (RAIRS) spectroscopy, has been used to investigate the reaction of octahydridosilsesquioxane clusters (H 8 Si 8 O 12 ) on the Si(1 0 0)-2×1 and Si(1 1 1)-7×7 surfaces. The clusters exhibit a markedly different reactivity upon exposure to the two clean silicon surfaces. STM data is presented that, in conjunction with XPS and RAIRS data, provides numerous constraints upon possible geometries for the chemisorbed clusters. The sum of the data is consistent with a dissociative reaction mechanism on Si(1 0 0)-2×1, resulting in cluster attachment to the surface via a single vertex. Conversely, data of Si(1 1 1)-7×7 subject to a saturation exposure of H 8 Si 8 O 12 is presented that is highly suggestive of cluster decomposition on the surface.
Role of N-terminal myristylation in the structure and regulation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase.

The catalytic (C) subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase [protein kinase A (PKA)] is a major target of cAMP signaling, and its regulation is of fundamental importance to biological processes. One mode of regulation is N-myristylation, which has eluded structural and functional characterization so far because most crystal structures are of the non-myristylated enzyme, are phosphorylated on Ser10, and generally lack electron density for the first 13 residues. We crystallized myristylated wild-type (WT) PKA and a K7C mutant as binary (bound to a substrate peptide) and ternary [bound to a substrate peptide and adenosine-5′-(β,γ-imido)triphosphate] complexes. There was clear electron density for the entire N-terminus in the binary complexes, both refined to 2.0 A, and K7C ternary complex, refined to 1.35 A. The N-termini in these three structures display a novel conformation with a previously unseen helix from residues 1 to 7. The K7C mutant appears to have a more stable N-terminus, and this correlated with a significant decrease in the B-factors for the N-terminus in the myr-K7C complexes compared to the WT binary complex. The N-terminus of the myristylated WT ternary complex, refined to 2.0 A, was disordered as in previous structures. In addition to a more ordered N-terminus, the myristylated K7C mutant exhibited a 53% increase in kcat. The effect of nucleotide binding on the structure of the N-terminus in the WT protein and the kinetic changes in the K7C protein suggest that myristylation or occupancy of the myristyl binding pocket may serve as a site for allosteric regulation in the C-subunit.
Tunneling between dilute GaAs hole layers

We report interlayer tunneling measurements between very dilute two-dimensional GaAs hole layers. Surprisingly, the shape and temperature dependence of the tunneling spectrum can be explained with a Fermi liquid-based tunneling model, but the peak amplitude is much larger than expected from the available hole band parameters. Data as a function of parallel magnetic field reveal additional anomalous features, including a recurrence of a zero-bias tunneling peak at very large fields. In a perpendicular magnetic field, we observe a robust and narrow tunneling peak at total filling factor ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{T}=1$, signaling the formation of a bilayer quantum Hall ferromagnet.
Intermediate filament molecular biology

Epidermal keratin intermediate filaments appear to have a structural function. The functions of other intermediate filaments are being elucidated using a combination of molecular genetic methods, including the expression of dominant negative mutant proteins and gene targeting. The differential expression of intermediate filament genes is regulated by both the accessibility of multiple regulatory elements and the activity or level of multiple positive and negative transcription factors.
Differential effects of long-chain alcohols in long- and short-sleep mice

Observations that the long-sleep (LS) and short-sleep (SS) mouse lines differ in their depressant response to barbiturates, and that the difference between lines becomes greater as lipid solubility increases, prompted this investigation of the effects of alcohols that differ in lipid solubility. Results indicate that LS and SS mice differ significantly in their sleep time responses to propanol, butanol, and 3-methyl butanol, as well as ethanol: their hypothermic responses showed a similar pattern, but only the response to ethanol differed significantly between lines. For both sleep time and hypothermia, the difference between lines decreased with increasing lipid solubility. In all cases, the LS mice were more sensitive than the SS to the depressant effects of the alcohol. Similar ratios of SS:LS waking brain ethanol and butanol levels indicated that CNS sensitivity to long-chain alcohols is similar to that for ethanol. A pharmacokinetic study revealed higher ethanol levels for LS than for SS mice at all time points in blood, fat, and brain body compartments. Blood ethanol elimination curves showed that the SS mice eliminate ethanol at a faster rate than do the LS.
How does viewing one computer animation affect students' interpretations of another animation depicting the same oxidation–reduction reaction?

Two groups of students were shown unnarrated versions of two different particulate-level computer animations of varying complexity depicting the oxidation–reduction reaction of aqueous silver nitrate and solid copper metal; one group saw the more simplified animation first and the more complex animation second while the other group saw these animations in the reverse order. The goal of this study is to determine how viewing one of the animations affects the participants' subsequent explanations of the other animation. Viewing the more complex animation before the more simplified animation did not affect the participants' explanations of the more simplified animation, but did lead to a slight improvement in their abilities to write a balanced chemical equation of the oxidation–reduction reaction. Viewing the more simplified animation before viewing the more complex animation improved the participants' explanations of the more complex animation with respect to the 1:1 ratio of the silver and nitrate ions, the 2:1 reacting ratio of the silver ions and the copper atoms, the electron transfer process, and writing a balanced equation for this reaction. This positive effect was attributed to the fact that the more simplified animation was easier to interpret since it depicted fewer objects on-screen moving around at the same time, and was therefore less confusing or distracting to the participants. Viewing the more simplified animation before the more complex animation negatively impacted their explanations of the source of the blue colour in the aqueous solution. This negative impact was attributed to the fact that the more simplified animation explicitly depicted the colour change and caused participants viewing the more complex animation to expect that animation to also explicitly depict this colour change.
Luminescence in the system Mg4Ta2−xNbxO9

Abstract Detailed emission and excitation spectra and decay measurements of the luminescence of the system Mg 4 Ta 2− x Nb x O 9 are reported. In Mg 4 Ta 2 O 9 a new emission and excitation band at relatively low energy has been found. In the samples with a high niobium concentration ( x ⩾ 1) a new weak orange emission has been observed upon long-wavelength uv excitation. A new interpretation of the results, based on the occurrence of different niobate or tantalate centers, is presented.
Computational design and experimental validation of oligonucleotide-sensing allosteric ribozymes

Allosteric RNAs operate as molecular switches that alter folding and function in response to ligand binding. A common type of natural allosteric RNAs is the riboswitch; designer RNAs with similar properties can be created by RNA engineering. We describe a computational approach for designing allosteric ribozymes triggered by binding oligonucleotides. Four universal types of RNA switches possessing AND, OR, YES and NOT Boolean logic functions were created in modular form, which allows ligand specificity to be changed without altering the catalytic core of the ribozyme. All computationally designed allosteric ribozymes were synthesized and experimentally tested in vitro. Engineered ribozymes exhibit >1,000-fold activation, demonstrate precise ligand specificity and function in molecular circuits in which the self-cleavage product of one RNA triggers the action of a second. This engineering approach provides a rapid and inexpensive way to create allosteric RNAs for constructing complex molecular circuits, nucleic acid detection systems and gene control elements.
Industrial engineers articulate their critical thinking for problem solving via the D.R.I.V.E.S. model

Industrial engineers face a challenge to develop sustainable continuous improvement implementations, to help businesses change and adapt to continual survival challenges. Recent industrial engineering graduates face difficulties in structuring their acquired knowledge from an open-ended problem solving perspective. Leadership at Boeing is determined by the ability to define knowledge, model and mentor/teach others that knowledge. By this definition, industrial engineers fall short on their ability to teach others their problem solving process. This paper first provides a framework for a set of attributes, defined to establish the core elements of what industrial engineers must learn, practice and develop for sustainable solutions, to later introduce the D.R.I.V.E.S. model as a structured methodology for continuous improvement, using different industrial engineering tools to narrow down open-ended problems into a sequence of steps to propose the right set of solutions and ensure sustainable improvement imp...
Microstructural investigation of plasma-sprayed aluminum coatings☆

Abstract Although plasma-sprayed coatings have been used extensively in industry, limited studies have been carried out on the microstructural details. In this program scanning and transmission electron microscopy, combined with other techniques, were used to examine the grain morphology in plasma-flame-sprayed aluminum coatings. In plasma spraying, the initial particles which impinge onto the cold substrate solidify at rates comparable with those obtained by splat quenching. Since such particles are responsible for the bonding between the coating and the substrate, the first layer has received the central emphasis in this study. Because subsequent layers experience lower cooling rates, a non-uniform grain morphology is obtained which is substantially affected by the particle morphology. The topography of the surface on which the particles impinge is shown to play a decisive role with respect to the orientation of the grains within each particle. These morphological details are considered in the light of models proposed for splat quenching. Another important factor in grain morphology is the position of the particle within the coating. For aluminum, the layers adjacent to the substrate contain highly oriented elongated grains, with the longitudinal axis perpendicular to the substrate. However, because of heating by the flame itself, the particles located away from the substrate are composed of large, equiaxed and randomly oriented grains. Finally, the reaction of the molten droplets with the plasma effluent and the surrounding environment is considered. Oxidation and porosity result when aluminum is sprayed in air. The oxidation of the particles results in a thin layer of oxide which (i) hinders particle-particle interaction and thus results in the formation of interparticle pores and (ii) provides a path for crack propagation and failure, which can occur by delamination. The pore structure of the coating was investigated and correlated with fractography.
Pulse wave velocity does not predict ventricular strain in Ross patients

Background Worsened aortic pathology may adversely affect ventricular function over time. Patients requiring the Ross procedure are at risk for aortopathy including worsened aortic stiffness, and are at risk for left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Early changes in vascular stiffness can be measured with cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) by pulse wave velocity (PWV). Likewise, decreased LV strain may precede changes in ejection fraction. We hypothesized thoracic aorta PWV would predict impaired left ventricular systolic function in patients after the Ross procedure.
Hemodilution modulates the time of onset and rate of fibrinolysis in human and rabbit plasma.

Background Fibrinolysis has a critical role in the development of bleeding after insertion of a ventricular assist device (VAD). However, chronically, VAD-mediated fibrinolysis may also diminish thromboembolic events. Management of VADs involves fluid administration. It was hypothesized that the fluid administered could modulate fibrinolysis. Methods Human plasma was diluted (0% to 30%) with 0.9% NaCl, 5% albumin or Voluven (6% hydroxyethyl-starch [HES], mean molecular weight 130 kD) and exposed to tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA). Plasma obtained from rabbits just before and after 30% dilution with PentaLyte (6% HES, 220 kD), Voluven or Hextend (6% HES, 450 kD) were exposed to tPA. Thrombelastographic clot strength and onset/rate of fibrinolysis were determined. Results In human plasma, 0.9% NaCl significantly decreased clot strength, but either prolonged or maintained the onset of fibrinolysis, with the rate of fibrinolysis significantly increased only at 30% dilution. Five percent albumin significantly decreased clot strength and did not affect the onset of fibrinolysis, but it did decrease the rate of fibrinolysis. Voluven significantly decreased clot strength to the greatest extent compared with the other fluids, and decreased the time of onset of fibrinolysis. Rabbit plasma after hemodilution demonstrated significantly decreased clot strength and decreased time of onset of fibrinolysis as compared with Voluven in human plasma. Conclusions Compared with crystalloid or albumin, HES solutions enhance fibrinolysis by decreasing clot strength and decreasing the time of onset of fibrinolysis. Further studies are warranted to determine whether the fluid administered to patients with VADs can impact hemorrhagic and thrombotic morbidity.
Building a learning progression for celestial motion: Elementary levels from an earth‐based perspective

Prior research has demonstrated that neither children nor adults hold a scientific understanding of the big ideas of astronomy, as described in standards documents for science education (National Research Council (1996). National science education standards. Washington, DC: National Academy Press; American Association for the Advancement of Science (1993). Benchmarks for science literacy. New York: Oxford University Press). This manuscript focuses on ideas in astronomy that are at the foundation of elementary students' understanding of the discipline: the apparent motion of the sun, moon, and stars as seen from an earth-based perspective. Lack of understanding of these concepts may hinder students' progress towards more advanced understanding in the domain. We have analyzed the logic of the domain and synthesized prior research assessing children's knowledge to develop a set of learning trajectories that describe how students' initial ideas about apparent celestial motion as they enter school can be built upon, through successively more sophisticated levels of understanding, to reach a level that aligns with the scientific view. Analysis of an instructional intervention with elementary students in the planetarium was used to test our initial construction of the learning trajectories. This manuscript presents a first look at the use of a learning progression framework in analyzing the structure of astronomy education. We discuss how this work may eventually lead towards the development and empirical testing of a full learning progression on the big idea: how children learn to describe and explain apparent patterns of celestial motion. 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 47: 768-787, 2010
Testing for random individual and time effects using a Gauss-Newton regression

Abstract This paper derives a simple method for testing for zero random individual and time period effects in a non-linear model using a Gauss-Newton regression. In case, the regression model is linear, this test amounts to running the original regression with two additional regressors. The first is the average of the least squares residuals over time, while the second is the average of the least squares residuals over individuals. The test statistic becomes the F-statistic for the significance of the two additional regressors.
A Constant-time Algorithm for Erosions/Dilations with Applications to Morphological Texture Feature Computation

A computationally efficient algorithm for computing erosions and dilations by one- dimensional grayscale structuring elements with constant slope is proposed. The computational complexity of this algorithm is independent of the size of the support of the structuring function. This is a generalization of the method proposed by Van Herk for the case of erosion and dilation by flat one-dimensional structuring elements. By appropriate combinations of these structuring elements, it is possible to approximate many useful structuring elements. This enables efficient computation of granulometries where the number of operations depends linearly on the number of openings. Theoretical and experimental results comparing the complexity of this algorithm with other standard techniques is presented. Two memory efficient algorithms are then presented. Several implementation issues in computing a granulometry and moments of the associated morphological pattern spectrum are then addressed. An efficient implementation of granulometries for large images on machines with limited memory, by dividing the image into smaller rectangular patches is then discussed. The optimum size of these patches is a function of the specific hardware and has been obtained experimentally for three different hardware platforms. Finally, parallel implementation of the different algorithms on two multi-processor machines is discussed.
Engineering Therapeutic Nanocarriers with Optimal Adhesion for Targeting

There is considerable interest in developing therapeutic delivery carriers that can be targeted via receptor-ligand interactions to sites within the blood stream. The adhesion of carriers is determined by the combined effects of transport phenomena, hydrodynamic force, and the dynamics of multivalent receptor/ligand bonding. Optimizing the adhesion of carriers requires developing relationships between these factors and carrier properties such as size and receptor coating density. Recently, we developed canonical relationships for the binding of antibody-conjugated 200 nm particles to surfaces coated with a vascular adhesion molecule, intercellular adhesion molecule-1. Here we extend our previous studies of adhesion to particles of different size, including 40 nm and 1 μm particles. Particle binding is assessed under fluid flow in a parallel plate flow chamber while varying particle receptor density, substrate ligand density, and flow rate. Using a stochastic simulation and transport-reaction model we then...
Minimum weights of point codes of Steiner triple systems

The point code of a Steiner triple system always contains vectors of weight equal to the replication number. The existence of Steiner triple systems whose point code has minimum weight less than the replication number is examined. In particular, the possible minimum weights are determined.
Developing a Quality Screening Colonoscopy Referral System in Primary Care Practice: A Report from the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable

The use of colonoscopy in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening has increased substantially in recent years. Media messages and changes in insurance reimbursement, as well as new screening guidelines from the American Cancer Society and the US Preventive Services Task Force, have contributed to this increase. Primary care providers (PCPs) are frequently responsible for making the recommendation and referral for screening. The process of successfully referring a patient for screening colonoscopy can be cumbersome and requires a coordinated effort between the PCP and the endoscopist. In recognition of the potential complexity of this process, the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable has issued a report to describe the components of a quality screening colonoscopy referral system in primary care practice. The elements of a quality program include an optimal scheduling and referral system, the appropriate patient preparation information, consistent reporting and follow-up systems, and a detailed approach to dealing with special situations.
THE EFFECT OF AN ALTERNATIVE MEDICAL PROCEDURE UPON LOW-FREQUENCY OSCILLATIONS IN CUTANEOUS BLOOD FLOW VELOCITY

Objective: Compression of the fourth ventricle (CV-4) is a manual, noninvasive procedure that reportedly affects the cranial rhythmic impulse, a phenomenon recognized by practitioners of cranial manipulation, that is concomitant with low-frequency Traube-Hering (TH) oscillations in blood flow velocity. This study examines the CV-4 and its effect upon blood flow velocity. Methods: Human subjects were paired with 28 individual physicians for application of the CV-4, and the duration of the application was recorded. Flowmetry records tracking the course of the procedure were obtained, 20 of which were useable for intergroup comparisons. Segments of these records (control, treatment, response) were Fourier-transformed; the Fourier-transformed spectra were subtracted from one another and the resultant difference-spectra compared. Results: The mean CV-4 procedure length was 4.43 F 2.22 minutes. The mean frequency of the TH waveform visible in the blood flowmetry record was 7.10 F 2.07 cpm. The CV-4 procedure specifically affected the low-frequency oscillations in blood flow velocity. After application, the amplitude of the TH, 0.10 Hz, frequency wave increased (relative area units: control minus treatment [0.08010 units) compared with control minus response [0.03358 units]; P = .011). Conclusions: This study showed that CV-4 has an effect on the TH frequency component of blood flow velocity. The practitioners of cranial manipulation who participated in this study affected their subjects in a quantifiable manner with the application of the CV-4 procedure. (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2006;29:626-636) Key Indexing Terms: Skull; Manipulation, Osteopathic; Flowmeters; Blood Circulation; Baroreflex
Predicting the effects of climate change on water yield and forest production in the northeastern United States

Rapid and simultaneous changes in temperature, precipitation and the atmospheric concentration of CO2 are predicted to occur over the next century. Simple, well-validated models of ecosystem function are required to predict the effects of these changes. This paper describes an improved version of a forest carbon and water balance model (PnET-II) and the application of the model to predict stand- and regional-level effects of changes in temperature, precipitation and atmospheric CO2 concentration. PnET-II is a simple, generalized, monthly time-step model of water and carbon balances (gross and net) driven by nitrogen availability as expressed through foliar N concentration. Improvements from the original model include a complete carbon balance and improvements in the prediction of canopy phenology, as well as in the computation of canopy structure and photosynthesis. The model was parameterized and run for 4 forest/site combinations and validated against available data for water yield, gross and net carbon exchange and biomass production. The validation exercise suggests that the determination of actual water availability to stands and the occurrence or non-occurrence of soil-based water stress are critical to accurate modeling of forest net primary production (NPP) and net ecosystem production (NEP). The model was then run for the entire NewEngland/New York (USA) region using a 1 km resolution geographic information system. Predicted long-term NEP ranged from -85 to +275 g C m-2 yr-1 for the 4 forest/site combinations, and from -150 to 350 g C m-2 yr-1 for the region, with a regional average of 76 g C m-2 yr-1. A combination of increased temperature (+6*C), decreased precipitation (-15%) and increased water use efficiency (2x, due to doubling of CO2) resulted generally in increases in NPP and decreases in water yield over the region.
Microinvasive ductal carcinoma in situ: clinical presentation, imaging features, pathologic findings, and outcome.

Abstract Objective The purpose of our study was to describe the clinical features, imaging characteristics, pathologic findings and outcome of microinvasive ductal carcinoma in situ (DCISM). Materials and methods The records of 21 women diagnosed with microinvasive ductal carcinoma in situ (DCISM) from November 1993 to September 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. The clinical presentation, imaging and histopathologic features, and clinical follow-up were reviewed. Results The 21 lesions all occurred in women with a mean age of 56 years (range, 27–79 years). Clinical findings were present in ten (48%): 10 with palpable masses, four with associated nipple discharge. Mean lesion size was 21mm (range, 9–65mm). The lesion size in 62% was 15mm or smaller. Mammographic findings were calcifications only in nine (43%) and an associated or other finding in nine (43%) [mass ( n =7), asymmetry ( n =1), architectural distortion ( n =1)]. Three lesions were mammographically occult. Sonographic findings available in 11 lesions showed a solid hypoechoic mass in 10 cases (eight irregular in shape, one round, one oval). One lesion was not seen on sonography. On histopathologic examination, all lesions were diagnosed as DCISM, with a focus of invasive carcinoma less than or equal to 1mm in diameter within an area of DCIS. Sixteen (76%) lesions were high nuclear grade, four (19%) were intermediate and one was low grade (5%). Sixteen (76%) had the presence of necrosis. Positivity for ER and PR was noted in 75% and 38%. Nodal metastasis was present in one case with axillary lymph node dissection. Mean follow-up time for 16 women was 36 months without evidence of local or systemic recurrence. One patient developed a second primary in the contralateral breast 3 years later. Conclusion The clinical presentation and radiologic appearance of a mass are commonly encountered in DCISM lesions (48% and 57%, respectively), irrespective of lesion size, mimicking findings seen in invasive carcinoma. Despite its potential for nodal metastasis (5% in our series), mean follow-up at 36 months was good with no evidence of local or systemic recurrence at follow-up. Knowledge of these clinical and imaging findings in DCISM lesions may alert the clinician to the possibility of microinvasion and guide appropriate management.
Electromagnetic shift of pomeranchuk trajectory

Electromagnetic shift of the Pomeranchuk trajectory is calculated at t = 0 through its virtual dissociation into a photon and a vector meson. A numerical estimate using the data of vector meson production by electrons leads to the effective electromagnetic upward shift of the intercept DELTA alpha /sub p/ (0) approx equal 0.0023. It corresponds to DELTA sigma /sub tot approx equal 0.6 mb for the proton--proton collision at the highest ISR energy available, s = 4 x 10/sup 3/ GeV/sup 2/.
Apollo 12 clinopyroxenes: Chemical trends

Clinopyroxenes from Apollo 12 rocks studied by X ray diffraction and electron microprobe methods, noting phenocrysts, chemical composition and crystallization
HIV-related lentiviruses of nonhuman primates.

The purpose of this review is to summarize the current status of known natural infections with SIV, the pathogenic potential of SIV in natural and unnaturual hosts, the genetic diversity of SIV, and possible monkey origins for HIV. In addition, we discuss the importance of SIV for studying the pathogenesis of AIDS and strategies for therapeutic and vaccine intervention
Experimental study of acoustoelectric interaction in Hg1-xCdxTe/CdTe

Due to the extremely unstable surface condition of Hg1-xCdxTe, a technique is needed to study its surface electrical properties repeatedly after each fabrication step. The surface acoustic wave (SAW) technique here is applied to perform such a study. It is found that some samples exhibit changes in their surface conductivity as a function of temperature from electron conductivity to hole conductivity. The band discontinuity between Hg1-xCdxTe and CdTe is also determined using spectroscopy with the SAW power as an additional parameter. Using large SAW powers, the transverse acoustoelectric voltage (TAV) mostly due to interaction of SAW with substrate CdTe is detected. The structures in the TAV vs incident photon energy, at low SAW powers, are related to different transitions between CdTe and Hg1-xCdxTe conduction and valence bands. The value of the composition index ‘x’ is calculated from the energies of these transitions. TAV vs voltage measurements were also performed and it is observed that inverted surface carrier mobilities are in qualitative agreement with the theoretical values. Also, in the TAV waveforms interesting ringing with ∼ 40 kHz frequency is observed which becomes stronger at low temperatures.
Method development for the separation of phospholipids by subcritical fluid chromatography

Abstract A packed-column subcritical fluid chromatographic separation of five phospholipids was achieved in less than 20 min by using a Luna octyl column (25 cm×4.6 mm I.D., 5 μm) employing evaporative light scattering detection. The chromatographic conditions used for the separation of (a) 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphate (DPPA), 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC), (c) poly(ethylene glycolated)-1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPE–PEG), (d) 1,2-dicaproyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DCPC) and (e) 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-[phospho-rac-(1-glycerol)] (DPPG) were: 9% ethanol–methanol (50:50, v/v), containing 0.10% (v/v) trifluoroacetic acid for 2 min, increasing by 0.5%/min to 15% in 14 min, to 40% at 14.1 min, at a column temperature of 70°C, an outlet pressure of 135 bar and a mobile phase flow-rate of 2.0 ml/min. The separation was shown to be significantly influenced by the presence of a mobile phase acidic additive (e.g. trifluoroacetic acid) and its concentration, the overall modifier ramp rate and the column outlet pressure.
Visual speech information: A help or hindrance in perceptual processing of dysarthric speech

This study investigated the influence of visual speech information on perceptual processing of neurologically degraded speech. Fifty listeners identified spastic dysarthric speech under both audio (A) and audiovisual (AV) conditions. Condition comparisons revealed that the addition of visual speech information enhanced processing of the neurologically degraded input in terms of (a) acuity (percent phonemes correct) of vowels and consonants and (b) recognition (percent words correct) of predictive and nonpredictive phrases. Listeners exploited stress-based segmentation strategies more readily in AV conditions, suggesting that the perceptual benefit associated with adding visual speech information to the auditory signal—the AV advantage—has both segmental and suprasegmental origins. Results also revealed that the magnitude of the AV advantage can be predicted, to some degree, by the extent to which an individual utilizes syllabic stress cues to inform word recognition in AV conditions. Findings inform the development of a listener-specific model of speech perception that applies to processing of dysarthric speech in everyday communication contexts.
Protective Activities of the Filamentous Hemagglutinin and the Lymphocytosis-Promoting Factor of Bordetella pertussis in Mice

Protective activities of the filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA) and the lymphocytosis-promoting factor (LPF) of Bordetella pertussis were compared by active and passive protection tests with intracerebral or respiratory challenge in mice. Mice immunized twice by intraperitoneal injection of 8 micrograms of FHA or glutaraldehyde-inactivated LPF were protected after aerosol challenge. One intraperitoneal injection of inactivated LPF also protected mice from intracerebral challenge; the dose protecting 50% of the mice was 8.5 micrograms. However, one intraperitoneal injection of 48 micrograms of FHA or two weekly intraperitoneal injections of 20 micrograms did not protect mice from death after intracerebral challenge. Injection of affinity-purified antibody to LPF from mouse hybridomas or from goats gave a dose-dependent protection against aerosol challenge. The smallest dose giving protection was 80-90 micrograms. Polyclonal or monoclonal antibody to FHA at doses of 1,440 micrograms or 360 micrograms, respectively, gave very little protection from disease after respiratory challenge. These data indicate that active immunization of mice followed by respiratory challenge with B. pertussis is a useful model to identify protective antigens.
Differential results of instruction at the preoperational/concrete operational transition

The same cognitive intervention was attempted with children from two schools serving different populations. All children were identified by their teachers as having cognitive difficulties in kindergarten. Within each school, children were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Children in the experimental groups received more than 40 short lessons on unidimensional classification (oddity), seriation, and number conservation. These lessons were taught via a learning-set procedure employing 160 kinds of manipulatable objects. Children in the control groups received an equal amount of instruction on verbal and mathematics materials recommended by their teachers. Five months after the instruction was concluded, the experimental group in one school scored significantly better on a psychometric test of reasoning. There was no significant difference in verbal and mathematics achievement. Differences in the significance of outcomes of the intervention at the two schools suggest that children at different stages of cognitive development will benefit differently from cognitive interventions. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Foot and ankle forces during an automobile collision: the influence of muscles

Abstract Muscles have a potentially important effect on lower extremity injuries during an automobile collision. Computational modeling can be a powerful tool to predict these effects and develop protective interventions. Our purpose was to determine how muscles influence peak foot and ankle forces during an automobile collision. A 2-D bilateral musculoskeletal model was constructed with seven segments. Six muscle groups were included in the right lower extremity, each represented by a Hill muscle model. Vehicle deceleration data were applied as input and the resulting movements were simulated. Three models were evaluated: no muscles (NM), minimal muscle activation at a brake pedal force of 400 N (MN), and maximal muscle activation to simulate panic braking (MX). Muscle activation always resulted in large increases in peak joint force. Peak ankle joint force was greatest for MX (10120 N), yet this model also had the lowest peak rearfoot force (629 N). Peak force on the Achilles tendon was 4.5 times greater, during MX (6446 N) compared to MN (1430 N). We conclude that (1) external and internal forces are dependent on muscles, (2) muscle activation level could exacerbate axial loading injuries, (3) external and internal forces can be inversely related once muscle properties are included.
Button battery perforating a Meckel's diverticulum in an asymptomatic child: An exception to recommendations for management

Abstract National guidelines recommend observation for spontaneous passage of an ingested battery if the battery moves beyond the stomach in an asymptomatic child. We present a case of an asymptomatic child who presented with a button battery impacted in a Meckel's diverticulum causing perforation. We review national guidelines and suggest earlier consideration for intervention such as endoscopy or laparoscopy in children 2 years of age or younger, even if asymptomatic , in cases where there is a battery that fails to pass within 1 week.
A Descriptive Study of School Discipline Referrals in First Grade

School discipline referrals (SDRs) may be useful in the early detection and monitoring of disruptive behavior problems to inform prevention efforts in the school setting, yet little is known about the nature and validity of SDRs in the early grades. For this descriptive study, SDR data were collected on a sample of first grade students who were at risk for developing disruptive behavior problems (n = 186) and a universal sample (n = 531) from 20 schools. Most SDRs were given for physical aggression and the predominant consequence was time out. As expected, boys and at-risk students were more likely to receive an SDR and to have more SDRs than were girls and the universal sample. A large difference between schools regarding the delivery of SDRs was found. A zero-inflated Poisson model clustered by school tested the prediction of school-level variables. Students in schools that had a systematic way of tracking SDRs were more likely to receive one. Also, schools with more low-income students and larger class sizes gave fewer SDRs. SDRs predicted teacher ratings, and to a lesser extent, parent ratings of disruptive behavior at the end of first grade. Practitioners and researchers must examine school-level influences whenever first grade discipline referrals are used to measure problem behavior for the purpose of planning and evaluating interventions.
Real-time three-dimensional shape measurement of moving objects without edge errors by time-synchronized structured illumination.

Structured-light illumination is a process of three-dimensional imaging where a series of time-multiplexed, striped patterns are projected onto a target scene with the corresponding captured images used to determine surface shape according to the warping of the projected patterns around the target. In a real-time system, a high-speed projector/camera pair is used such that any surface motion is small over the projected pattern sequence, but regardless of acquisition speed, there are always those pixels near the edge of a moving surface that capture the projected patterns on both fore- and background surfaces. These edge pixels then create unpredictable results that typically require expensive processing steps to remove, but in this Letter, we introduce a filtering process that identifies motion artifacts based upon the discrete Fourier transform applied to the time axis of the captured pattern sequence. The process is of very low computational complexity, and in this Letter, we demonstrate that in a real-time structured-light illumination (SLI) system, the process comes at a cost of 15 frames per second (fps), where our SLI system drops from 180 to 165fps after deleting those edge pixels where motion was detected.
Detection of Optical Synchrotron Emission from the Radio Jet of 3C 279

We report the detection of optical and ultraviolet emission from the kiloparsec-scale jet of the well-known quasar 3C 279. A bright knot, discovered in archival V- and U-band Hubble Space Telescope Faint Object Camera images, is coincident with a peak in the radio jet ~06 from the nucleus. The detection was also confirmed in Wide Field Planetary Camera 2 images. Archival Very Large Array and MERLIN radio data are also analyzed, and these data help to show that the high-energy optical/UV continuum and the spectrum are consistent with a synchrotron origin from the same population of relativistic electrons responsible for the radio emission.
Losing TREC with Age

In this issue of Immunity, den Braber et al. (2012) highlight differences in naive T cell lifespan between mice and humans. Their data suggest that mechanisms of naive T cell maintenance may differ between mice and men.
Electrocardiographic changes in cardiovascular abnormalities concomitant with gastrointestinal disease

Abnormalities or peculiarities of the electrocardiogram are encountered frequently in patients with symptoms suggestive of disorder of the digestive system.