bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of Aurivillius Phases in the Bi–Ag–Ti–O System
Authors: Hu Xing , Škapin Srečo D. , Suvorov Danilo
Published: July 2007

New Aurivillius phases in the Bi–Ag–Ti–O system were investigated by means of a solid‐state reaction and X‐ray diffraction. We found that the oxygen partial pressure has a significant influence on the synthesis of the Aurivillius phases. The mixed‐layer Aurivillius phase Ag0.5Bi8.5Ti7O27 was observed after firing in an O2 flow, but a single‐phase material is difficult to obtain. A single‐phase compound of the four‐layer Aurivillius phase Ag0.5Bi4.5Ti4O15 was obtained on firing in an oxygen partial pressure of 10 bar (1 × 106 Pa). The dielectric properties (at 1 MHz) of the Ag0.5Bi4.5Ti4O15 compound were as follows: Tmax=687°C, ɛr=166 (∼20°C), and tan δ=0.004 (∼20°C).
Continuous Synthesis of Tin and Indium Oxide Nanoparticles in Sub‐ and Supercritical Water
Authors: Fang Zhen , Assaaoudi Hassane , Guthrie Roderick I. L. , Kozinski Janusz A. , Butler Ian S.
Published: July 2007

Nanocrystalline tin and indium oxides (In2O3/SnO2) were synthesized in sub‐ and supercritical water at 350°/380°C and 30 MPa in <73 s in a tubular flow reactor from an aqueous solution of {SnCl4+InCl3} (0.2 M). The conversion rate for tin was 100%. Nanoparticles were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), emitted X‐rays, Raman, differential scanning calorimetry, and X‐ray diffraction techniques. The bulk particles were composed of In, Sn, and O atoms, and made up of cubic In2O3 (10 nm) and tetragonal SnO2 (5.5 nm) crystals. After calcination at 500°C for 2 h, little change occurred in the particle size and crystal phase. Traces of tin‐doped indium oxide particles were also formed as confirmed by the TEM electron diffraction pattern. Using this one‐step, high‐temperature hydrothermal process, oxide nanoparticles can be continuously and conveniently produced in a well‐controlled process.
Intravitreal triamcinolone as adjunctive treatment to laser panretinal photocoagulation for concomitant proliferative diabetic retinopathy and clinically significant macular oedema
Authors: Margolis Ron , Singh Rishi P. , Bhatnagar Pawan , Kaiser Peter K.
Published: July 2007

Purpose:  To evaluate the effect of intravitreal injections of triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) combined with panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) on visual acuity (VA) and foveal thickness in patients with concomitant high‐risk proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and clinically significant macular oedema (CSMO).

Methods:  This retrospective interventional case series included seven eyes diagnosed with both high‐risk PDR and CSMO that underwent PRP and a single injection of 4 mg of IVTA. The main outcome measures were VA and foveal thickness, measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT) before treatment and throughout the follow‐up period.

Results:  Median follow‐up was 301 days (range 180–715 days). Foveal thickness data were available for four of seven eyes. Before the combined treatment, median LogMAR (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) VA and median foveal thickness were 1 (Snellen 20/200, range 20/40–20/800) and 559 µm (range 333–689 µm), respectively. After treatment, median vision improved to LogMAR 0.544 (Snellen 20/70, range 20/40–20/1000) (P = 0.13). Vision improved or remained stable in six of seven eyes. Median foveal thickness at final follow‐up was 436 µm (range 259–623 µm) (P = 0.15). Foveal thickness decreased or remained stable in all eyes.

Conclusion:  The addition of IVTA to PRP in the treatment of eyes with high‐risk PDR and CSMO may prevent PRP‐induced foveal thickening and loss of vision.
Manuscript in Print: The Materiality of Alternative Comics
Authors: Tinker Emma
Published: July 2007

This paper forms part of a Literature Compass cluster on Modern Book History. The full cluster is made up of the following articles:

‘Between Then and Now: Modern Book History’, Kate Longworth, Literature Compass 4 (2007), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2007.00474.x.

‘Ezra Pound's Cantos: A Compact History of Twentieth‐Century Authorship, Publishing and Editing’, Mark Byron, Literature Compass 4 (2007), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2007.00475.x.

‘ “The Making of the Book”: Roy Fisher, the Circle Press and the Poetics of Book Art’, Matthew Sperling, Literature Compass 4 (2007), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2007.00476.x.

‘Bakhtinian “Journalization” and the Mid‐Victorian Literary Marketplace’, Dallas Liddle, Literature Compass 4 (2007), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2007.00477.x.

‘Manuscript in Print: The Materiality of Alternative Comics’, Emma Tinker, Literature Compass 4 (2007), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2007.00478.x.

‘Lost in a World of Books: Reading and Identity in Pre‐War Japan’, Susan C. Townsend, Literature Compass 4 (2007), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2007.00479.x.

***

This article argues that the writers and illustrators of alternative comics show a particular interest in the material form of their work, and that this preoccupation is linked to the publication history of these texts. It begins by discussing the changes in publication of alternative comics over the past thirty years, including the shift from single issue to trade paperback or ‘graphic novel’ format, the decline of specialist retailers, and the growth in production of small press comics and fanzines. It then considers some implications of this shift, and examines two texts in which authors have directly addressed the materiality of their comics in the books themselves: Craig Thompson's Blankets and Chris Ware's Jimmy Corrigan. It argues that comic book authors, who are also readers and collectors, have a strong personal investment in the physical form of comics, and that this interest is also manifest in the content of these texts.
The bacterium, nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae, enhances host antiviral response by inducing Toll‐like receptor 7 expression
Authors: Sakai Akihiro , Koga Tomoaki , Lim Jae‐Hyang , Jono Hirofumi , Harada Kazutsune , Szymanski Erika , Xu Haidong , Kai Hirofumi , Li Jian‐Dong
Published: July 2007

The incidence of mixed viral/bacterial infections has increased recently because of the dramatic increase in antibiotic‐resistant strains, the emergence of new pathogens, and the resurgence of old ones. Despite the relatively well‐known role of viruses in enhancing bacterial infections, the impact of bacterial infections on viral infections remains unknown. In this study, we provide direct evidence that nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi), a major respiratory bacterial pathogen, augments the host antiviral response by up‐regulating epithelial Toll‐like receptor 7 (TLR7) expression in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, NTHi induces TLR7 expression via a TLR2‐MyD88‐IRAK‐TRAF6‐IKK‐NF‐κB‐dependent signaling pathway. Interestingly, CYLD, a novel deubiquitinase, acts as a negative regulator of TLR7 induction by NTHi. Our study thus provides new insights into a novel role for bacterial infection in enhancing host antiviral response and further identifies CYLD for the first time as a critical negative regulator of host antiviral response.
An audit of all prostate‐specific antigen tests requested by non‐urologists in a 1‐year period in a district general hospital
Authors: James Nicola , James Michael Jonathan
Published: July 2007

There has been much debate and controversy about prostate cancer screening and the use and abuse of the prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) test. Much of this debate is centred around primary care. It was noticed that increasing numbers of men admitted to secondary care, as patients of non‐urologists in a district general hospital, were having their PSA tested. A retrospective audit of all PSA tests requested during a 1‐year period was undertaken by a practicing clinical nurse specialist and consultant urologist. The reasons for the requests for the test were examined along with the implications of the results. The results showed that many PSA tests were requested without clinical indication or understanding of prostate cancer, without the patient’s knowledge or consent and without a clear interpretation of the results. Moreover, some patients who tested positive did not receive the appropriate investigations or treatment, thereby putting them at risk. This audit has shown a need for guidelines to be developed for PSA testing in the secondary care setting to complement those already in use in primary care.
Urology ward attenders: auditing a nurse‐led service
Authors: Nariculam Joseph , Murphy Declan G , Jenner Cathy
Published: July 2007

This audit describes a urology walk‐in service where patients are treated on the acute urology ward. Any patient previously known to the urology department or undergoing urology treatment can contact the ward 24 h a day for management of urology‐related issues. The service is nurse led and has evolved to become known as a ‘ward attender’ service. The audit is designed to observe how many patients present over a 12‐month period and the type of conditions seen. The aim is to see what effect this service has on the ward, its resources and primary care. The notes of ward attenders presenting to the urology ward over a 12‐month period were retrospectively analysed. Data collected included source of referral, types of urology conditions seen and treatment provided. Patients were divided in to two groups based on either planned (elective) or unplanned (emergency) attendance. Attenders were given questionnaires to obtain patient opinion on various aspects of service provision. Four hundred and four patients presented to the urology ward for review and treatment in one calendar year. These patients were seen by nursing staff and 21 other patients were reviewed by doctors. Ten patients required admission following review. Emergency attendances included patients with blocked nephrostomy tubes; haematuria, urinary retention or sepsis following endoscopy and catheter‐related issues. Elective attendances included patients requiring bladder washouts, change of catheter and instructions for intermittent self‐catheterization. This service helps forge a close working relationship with general practitioners, community nurses and nursing homes, by accepting direct referrals from them. Patients presenting as ward attenders comment that the service is rapid and that by being seen by more familiar staff, trust and confidence is built. By introducing this service, we feel we are contributing to the changes in the way urology patients are managed in the National Health Service.
Effect of Interference on the Mechanics of Load Transfer in Aircraft Fuselage Lap Joints
Authors: Atre Amarendra , Johnson W. S.
Published: July 2007

Much of the fatigue damage in aircraft structures can be linked to the stress concentration arising at the rivet/skin interface in fuselage lap-joints. Fatigue damage can degrade the strength of the structure and reduce structural integrity. The stress distribution around the rivet holes, which depends on several loading conditions, is therefore of prime importance. Critical manufacturing process variations must be taken into account to observe the effect on local stresses at the hole. This paper presents three-dimensional (3D) nonlinear finite element analyses to investigate the stress state at rivet holes in fuselage lap joints. Initially, a 3D single rivet model of the riveting process was developed to characterize the unsymmetric residual stress distribution resulting from rivet installation. Then a global three-rivet model of the fuselage lap-joint, which takes into account the residual stresses from rivet installation and fuselage pressurization, was analyzed and compared to observations available from teardown inspection. The models were then implemented to observe the effects of rivet interference, sealant, and drill shavings on the stress state. A multiaxial fatigue criterion was implemented to predict cycles to crack nucleation for the modeled parameters. The effect of underdriven rivets and sealant were observed to be the most critical on the stress state of the fuselage splice. Excellent comparison with the damage characterization of the fuselage lap-joint provides validation to the finite element model.
Efficacy, Pharmacokinetics, and Metabolism of Tetrahydroquinoline Inhibitors of
Plasmodium falciparum
Protein Farnesyltransferase
Authors: Van Voorhis Wesley C. , Rivas Kasey L. , Bendale Pravin , Nallan Laxman , Hornéy Carolyn , Barrett Lynn K. , Bauer Kevin D. , Smart Brian P. , Ankala Sudha , Hucke Oliver , Verlinde Christophe L. M. J. , Chakrabarti Debopam , Strickland Corey , Yokoyama Kohei , Buckner Frederick S. , Hamilton Andrew D. , Williams David K. , Lombardo Louis J. , Floyd David , Gelb Michael H.
Published: July 2007

New antimalarials are urgently needed. We have shown that tetrahydroquinoline (THQ) protein farnesyltransferase (PFT) inhibitors (PFTIs) are effective against the
Plasmodium falciparum
PFT and are effective at killing
P. falciparum
in vitro. Previously described THQ PFTIs had limitations of poor oral bioavailability and rapid clearance from the circulation of rodents. In this paper, we validate both the Caco-2 cell permeability model for predicting THQ intestinal absorption and the in vitro liver microsome model for predicting THQ clearance in vivo. Incremental improvements in efficacy, oral absorption, and clearance rate were monitored by in vitro tests; and these tests were followed up with in vivo absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion studies. One compound, PB-93, achieved cure when it was given orally to
P. berghei-
infected rats every 8 h for a total of 72 h. However, PB-93 was rapidly cleared, and dosing every 12 h failed to cure the rats. Thus, the in vivo results corroborate the in vitro pharmacodynamics and demonstrate that 72 h of continuous high-level exposure to PFTIs is necessary to kill plasmodia. The metabolism of PB-93 was demonstrated by a novel technique that relied on double labeling with a radiolabel and heavy isotopes combined with radiometric liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. The major liver microsome metabolite of PB-93 has the PFT Zn-binding
N
-methyl-imidazole removed; this metabolite is inactive in blocking PFT function. By solving the X-ray crystal structure of PB-93 bound to rat PFT, a model of PB-93 bound to malarial PFT was constructed. This model suggests areas of the THQ PFTIs that can be modified to retain efficacy and protect the Zn-binding
N
-methyl-imidazole from dealkylation.
In Vitro and In Vivo Activities of T-705 against Arenavirus and Bunyavirus Infections
Authors: Gowen Brian B. , Wong Min-Hui , Jung Kie-Hoon , Sanders Andrew B. , Mendenhall Michelle , Bailey Kevin W. , Furuta Yousuke , Sidwell Robert W.
Published: July 2007

There is a need for the development of effective antivirals for the treatment of severe viral diseases caused by members of the virus families
Bunyaviridae
and
Arenaviridae
. The pyrazine derivative T-705 (6-fluoro-3-hydroxy-2-pyrazinecarboxamide) has demonstrated remarkable antiviral activity against influenza virus and, to a lesser degree, against some other RNA viruses (Y. Furuta, K. Takahashi, Y. Fukuda, M. Kuno, T. Kamiyama, K. Kozaki, N. Nomura, H. Egawa, S. Minami, Y. Watanabe, H. Narita, and K. Shiraki, Antimicrob. Agents Chemother.,
46:
977-981, 2002). Here, we report that T-705 is highly active against a panel of bunyaviruses (La Crosse, Punta Toro, Rift Valley fever, and sandfly fever viruses) and arenaviruses (Junin, Pichinde, and Tacaribe viruses) by cytopathic effect and virus yield reduction cell-based assays. The 50% effective concentrations for T-705 ranged from 5 to 30 μg/ml and 0.7 to 1.2 μg/ml against the bunyaviruses and arenaviruses examined, respectively. We also demonstrate that orally administered T-705 is efficacious in treating Punta Toro virus in the mouse and hamster infection models, as well as Pichinde virus infection in hamsters. When administered twice daily for 5 to 6 days, beginning 4 h pre- or 24 h post-Punta Toro virus challenge, a 30-mg/kg of body weight/day dose provided complete protection from death and limited viral burden and liver disease. A dose of 50 mg/kg/day was found to be optimal for treating Pichinde infection and limiting viral replication and disease severity. In general, T-705 was found to be more active than ribavirin in cell-based assays and in vivo, as reflected by substantially greater therapeutic indexes. Our results suggest that T-705 may be a viable alternative for the treatment of life-threatening bunyaviral and arenaviral infections.
Determination of the Primary Target of a Quinolone Drug and the Effect of Quinolone Resistance-Conferring Mutations by Measuring Quinolone Sensitivity Based on Its Mode of Action
Authors: Pfeiffer Emily S. , Hiasa Hiroshi
Published: July 2007

We used an assay to measure quinolone sensitivity as a shift in the position of the cleavage-religation equilibrium. This assay was found to be useful in identifying the primary target of a quinolone drug and assessing the effect of quinolone resistance-conferring mutations.
In Vivo Efficacy of a Novel Oxazolidinone Compound in Two Mouse Models of Infection
Authors: Gill Charles J. , Abruzzo George K. , Flattery Amy M. , Misura Andrew S. , Bartizal Ken , Hickey Emily J.
Published: July 2007

A novel oxazolidinone, AM 7359, was evaluated in two mouse models of
Staphylococcus aureus
infection. AM 7359 and linezolid were equally efficacious in a methicillin-susceptible
S. aureus
organ burden model and a methicillin-resistant
S. aureus
localized infection model. However, AM 7359 was eightfold more efficacious than linezolid against a linezolid- and methicillin-resistant
S. aureus
strain in this localized (thigh) infection model.
Contribution of the CmeABC Efflux Pump to Macrolide and Tetracycline Resistance in
Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: Gibreel Amera , Wetsch Nicole M. , Taylor Diane E.
Published: July 2007

We investigated the involvement of the CmeABC efflux pump in acquired resistance of
Campylobacter jejuni
to macrolides and tetracycline. Inactivation of the
cmeB
gene had no effect on macrolide resistance when all copies of the target gene carried an A2074C mutation. In contrast, the CmeABC pump significantly contributed to macrolide resistance when two or three copies of the 23S rRNA had an A2075G transition. Inactivation of the
cmeB
gene led to restoration of tetracycline susceptibility in the isolates examined. Complete susceptibility to tetracycline or macrolides, however, was not restored when phenylalanine-arginine β-naphthylamide was used. These data confirm contribution of the CmeABC efflux pump to acquired resistance of
Campylobacter jejuni
to tetracycline and macrolides.
Serogroup-Related Escape of
Yersinia enterocolitica
YopE from Degradation by the Ubiquitin-Proteasome Pathway
Authors: Hentschke Moritz , Trülzsch Konrad , Heesemann Jürgen , Aepfelbacher Martin , Ruckdeschel Klaus
Published: July 2007

Pathogenic
Yersinia
spp. employ a type III protein secretion system that translocates several
Yersinia
outer proteins (Yops) into the host cell to modify the host immune response. One strategy of the infected host cell to resist the bacterial attack is degradation and inactivation of injected bacterial virulence proteins through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. The cytotoxin YopE is a known target protein of this major proteolytic system in eukaryotic cells. Here, we investigated the sensitivity of YopE belonging to different enteropathogenic
Yersinia enterocolitica
serogroups to ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Analysis of the YopE protein levels in proteasome inhibitor-treated versus untreated cells revealed that YopE from the highly pathogenic
Y. enterocolitica
serotype O8 was subjected to proteasomal destabilization, whereas the YopE isotypes from serogroups O3 and O9 evaded degradation. Accumulation of YopE from serotypes O3 and O9 was accompanied by an enhanced cytotoxic effect. Using
Yersinia
strains that specifically produced YopE from either
Y. enterocolitica
O8 or O9, we found that only the YopE protein from serogroup O8 was modified by polyubiquitination, although both YopE isotypes were highly homologous. We determined two unique N-terminal lysines (K62 and K75) in serogroup O8 YopE, not present in serogroup O9 YopE, that served as polyubiquitin acceptor sites. Insertion of either lysine in serotype O9 YopE enabled its ubiquitination and destabilization. These results define a serotype-dependent difference in the stability and activity of the
Yersinia
effector protein YopE that could influence
Y. enterocolitica
pathogenesis.
Coxiella burnetiiInhibits Apoptosis in Human THP-1 Cells and Monkey Primary Alveolar Macrophages
Authors: Voth Daniel E. , Howe Dale , Heinzen Robert A.
Published: July 2007

Coxiella burnetii, the cause of human Q fever, is an aerosol-borne, obligate intracellular bacterium that targets host alveolar mononuclear phagocytic cells during infection. In all cell types examined,C. burnetiiestablishes a replicative niche in a lysosome-like parasitophorous vacuole where it carries out a lengthy infectious cycle with minimal cytopathic effects. The persistent and mild nature ofC. burnetiiinfection in vitro suggests that the pathogen modulates apoptosis to sustain the host cell. In the current study, we examined the ability ofC. burnetiito inhibit apoptotic cell death during infection of human THP-1 monocyte-derived macrophages and primary monkey alveolar macrophages.C. burnetii-infected cells demonstrated significant protection from death relative to uninfected cells following treatment with staurosporine, a potent inducer of intrinsic apoptosis. This protection correlated with reduced cleavage of caspase-9, caspase-3, and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), all proteolytic events that occur during apoptosis. Reduced PARP cleavage was also observed in cells treated with tumor necrosis factor alpha to induce extrinsic apoptosis. Apoptosis inhibition was aC. burnetii-driven process as infected cells treated with rifampin or chloramphenicol, inhibitors of bacterial RNA and protein synthesis, respectively, showed significantly reduced protection against staurosporine-induced apoptosis.C. burnetiiinfection affected the expression of multiple apoptosis-related genes and resulted in increased synthesis of the antiapoptotic proteins A1/Bfl-1 and c-IAP2. Collectively, these data suggest thatC. burnetiimodulates apoptotic pathways to inhibit host cell death, thus providing a stable, intracellular niche for the course of the pathogen's infectious cycle.
Comparisons of Mutants Lacking the Golgi UDP-Galactose or GDP-Mannose Transporters Establish that Phosphoglycans Are Important for Promastigote but Not Amastigote Virulence in
Leishmania major
Authors: Capul Althea A. , Hickerson Suzanne , Barron Tamara , Turco Salvatore J. , Beverley Stephen M.
Published: July 2007

Abundant surface
Leishmania
phosphoglycans (PGs) containing [Gal(β1,4)Man(α1-PO
4
)]-derived repeating units are important at several points in the infectious cycle of this protozoan parasite. PG synthesis requires transport of activated nucleotide-sugar precursors from the cytoplasm to the Golgi apparatus. Correspondingly, null mutants of the
L. major
GDP-mannose transporter
LPG2
lack PGs and are severely compromised in macrophage survival and induction of acute pathology in susceptible mice, yet they are able to persist indefinitely and induce protective immunity. However,
lpg2
−
L. mexicana
amastigotes similarly lacking PGs but otherwise normal in known glycoconjugates remain able to induce acute pathology. To explore this further, we tested the infectivity of a new PG-null
L. major
mutant, which is inactivated in the two UDP-galactose transporter genes
LPG5A
and
LPG5B.
Surprisingly this mutant did not recapitulate the phenotype of
L. major lpg2
−
, instead resembling the
L. major
lipophosphoglycan-deficient
lpg1
−
mutant. Metacyclic
lpg5A
−
/
lpg5B
−
promastigotes showed strong defects in the initial steps of macrophage infection and survival. However, after a modest delay, the
lpg5A
−
/lpg5B
−
mutant induced lesion pathology in infected mice, which thereafter progressed normally. Amastigotes recovered from these lesions were fully infective in mice and in macrophages despite the continued absence of PGs. This suggests that another
LPG2
-dependent metabolite is responsible for the
L. major
amastigote virulence defect, although further studies ruled out cytoplasmic mannans. These data thus resolve the distinct phenotypes seen among
lpg2
−
Leishmania
species by emphasizing the role of glycoconjugates other than PGs in amastigote virulence, while providing further support for the role of PGs in metacyclic promastigote virulence.
DCL4 Targets
Cucumber Mosaic Virus
Satellite RNA at Novel Secondary Structures
Authors: Du Quan-Sheng , Duan Cheng-Guo , Zhang Zhong-Hui , Fang Yuan-Yuan , Fang Rong-Xiang , Xie Qi , Guo Hui-Shan
Published: July 2007

It has been reported that plant virus-derived small interfering RNAs (vsiRNAs) originated predominantly from structured single-stranded viral RNA of a positive single-stranded RNA virus replicating in the cytoplasm and from the nuclear stem-loop 35S leader RNA of a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) virus. Increasing lines of evidence have also shown that hierarchical actions of plant Dicer-like (DCL) proteins are required in the biogenesis process of small RNAs, and DCL4 is the primary producer of vsiRNAs. However, the structures of such single-stranded viral RNA that can be recognized by DCLs remain unknown. In an attempt to determine these structures, we have cloned siRNAs derived from the satellite RNA (satRNA) of
Cucumber mosaic virus
(CMV-satRNA) and studied the relationship between satRNA-derived siRNAs (satsiRNAs) and satRNA secondary structure. satsiRNAs were confirmed to be derived from single-stranded satRNA and are primarily 21 (64.7%) or 22 (22%) nucleotides (nt) in length. The most frequently cloned positive-strand satsiRNAs were found to derive from novel hairpins that differ from the structure of known DCL substrates, miRNA and siRNA precursors, which are prevalent stem-loop-shaped or dsRNAs. DCL4 was shown to be the primary producer of satsiRNAs. In the absence of DCL4, only 22-nt satsiRNAs were detected. Our results suggest that DCL4 is capable of accessing flexibly structured single-stranded RNA substrates (preferably T-shaped hairpins) to produce satsiRNAs. This result reveals that viral RNA of diverse structures may stimulate antiviral DCL activities in plant cells.
Quantum Communication
Authors: Jackson Judy , Calder Neil
Published: July 2007

Few would dispute that the science of particle physics in the United States has reached a crossroads. Policies, decisions, and events of the coming decade will be critical in determining whether the United States continues to carry out a competitive program of leadership in this field of fundamental science. The field of particle physics has responded to this reality by fundamentally changing its model of communication from “business as usual” to a strategic and collaborative method that is clearly focused on achieving a healthy future for the science. Over the past half-dozen years, the particle physics community has gone from being an oft-cited example of how not to communicate effectively, to a frequently cited—and emulated—model for science communication. This review outlines the new approach toward communication in particle physics and then goes into detail about three case studies.
Synthesis, Characterization and Swelling Behavior of Gelatin-g-poly(sodium acrylate)/Kaolin Superabsorbent Hydrogel Composites
Authors: Pourjavadi A. , Hosseinzadeh H. , Sadeghi M.
Published: July 2007

In the present paper, a novel superabsorbent hydrogel composite based on gelatin have been prepared via graft copolymerization of acrylic acid (AA) in the presence of kaolin powder using methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) as a crosslinking agent and ammonium persulfate (APS) as an initiator. Certain variables of the graft copolymerization (i.e., the monomer, the initiator, and the crosslinker concentration as well as kaolin/gelatin weight ratio) affected on the ultimate water-swelling capacity were optimized. The composite structure was confirmed using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. A new absorption band at 1728 cm—1 in the composite spectrum confirmed kaolin—organic polymer linkage. The effect of kaolin amount and MBA concentration showed that with increase of these parameters, the water absorbency of the superabsorbent composite was decreased. The swelling measurements of the hydrogels were conducted in aqueous salt solutions. Results indicated that the swelling ratios decreased with an increase in the ionic strength of the salt solutions. This behavior can be attributed to `charge screening effect' for monovalent cations, as well as `ionic crosslinking' for multivalent cations. The effect of solutions with different pHs on the swelling of the superabsorbent was also studied and the hydrogels exhibited pH responsiveness, so a swelling—deswelling pulsatile behavior was recorded at pHs 2 and 8. Finally, the swelling kinetics of the synthesized composite with various particle sizes was preliminarily investigated as well.
Older Adults' Early Disability Following a Cardiac Event
Authors: Dolansky Mary A. , Moore Shirley M.
Published: July 2007

Using the disablement model, the authors examined the following questions in adults 70 years of age and older during the 6 weeks following hospitalization for a cardiac event: (a) What are the patterns in physical performance, self-report of functional limitations, and disability, and (b) to what extent does physical performance in the hospital and self-report of functional limitations pre-event predict 6-week disability? Data were collected before discharge and 3 and 6 weeks later on a sample of 60 older adults after a cardiac event. Results show that although the majority of participants improved in their objective physical performance, 70% self-reported no improvement or worsening. Physical performance during hospitalization is a better predictor of disability than a pre-event self-report of functional limitations, even when controlling for depression, gender, and comorbidity. Assessment of objective physical performance prior to discharge will help to identify older adults at risk for progressive disability.
A Comparison of Two Pain Measures for Asian American Cancer Patients
Authors: Shin Hyunjeong , Kim Kyungsuk , Young Hee Kim  , Chee Wonshik , Im Eun-Ok
Published: July 2007

Although two of the most commonly used multidimensional pain scales are the McGill Pain Questionnaire—Short Form (MPQ-SF) and the Brief Pain Inventory—Short Form (BPI-SF), little psychometric analysis of these tools has been done among ethnic minority populations. This study evaluates and compares psychometric properties of these scales among 119 Asian American cancer patients. Cronbach's alphas of the MPQ-SF and BPI-SF are high (α = .85 to .97). Correlation coefficients of the item analyses are .12 to .88 for the MPQ-SF and .44 to .90 for the BPI-SF. Two factors are extracted for both instruments. Correlations between pain scores and the usage of pain medications are low for the MPQ-SF ( r = .23 to .33) and moderate for the BPI-SF ( r = .40 to .42). Results indicate that among Asian Americans, both pain scales are internally consistent, some items in each are redundant, and the BPI-SF is more valid than the MPQ-SF.
Initial Psychometric Evaluation of the Wayfinding Effectiveness Scale
Authors: Algase Donna , Son Gwi-Ryung , Beel-Bates Cynthia , Song Junah , Lan Yao  , Beattie Elizabeth , Leitsch Sara
Published: July 2007

This study evaluates three versions of the Wayfinding Effectiveness Scale (WES), developed to differentiate problems of wayfinding and wandering behavior of community-residing elders with dementia (EWD), in 266 dyads (EWD and caregiver) recruited from Alzheimer's Association chapters. Factor analyses yield a five-factor solution (explained variance = 62.6%): complex wayfinding goals, analytic strategies, global strategies, simple wayfinding goals, and being stimulus bound. Overall, internal consistencies are high: WES (.94-.95), and subscales are stable across all versions. Testretest reliability is acceptable for the overall WES and two subscales (complex and simple wayfinding goals) for the care recipient current behavior version. Construct validity is supported by the pattern of correlations among subscales and analyses of variance (ANOVAs) showing significant differences among the care recipient (current vs. prior behavior) and caregiver versions overall and for all subscales. Results support the WES as a valid and reliable measure of wayfinding effectiveness in persons with dementia.
Aromatic Polyisophthalamides with Mononitro, Dinitro and Trinitroiminobenzoyl Pendant Groups
Authors: Serna Felipe , García Félix , De La Peña José Luis , García José Miguel
Published: July 2007

A series of aromatic polyisophthalamides containing mono-, di- and tri-nitroiminobenzoyl pendant groups were prepared from aromatic diamines and different 5-iminonitrobenzoylisophthalic acids. Interesting property relationships were revealed when evaluating the influence of the number and the position of the nitro groups in the benzoyl ring. Semi-empirical methods were used to obtain quantitative structure—property relationships (QSPR), which correlated the parameters obtained by molecular modeling with water uptake, thermal stability and 13 C and 1 H NMR chemical shifts. Moreover, by modifying the Bicerano method for aromatic polyamides, the predicted glass transition temperature ( Tg) values showed a high degree of correlation with the measured data. The polyamides registered high Tg values of up to 343°C, good thermal and mechanical properties, enhanced solubility in polar aprotic solvents, and their water uptake was as high as 19% (w/w) at 100% relative humidity.
PMR Type Polyimides by Aqueous Cyclization Methods — Chemistry
Authors: Dao Buu , Groth Andrew M. , Hodgkin Jonathan H.
Published: July 2007

PMR-15 has long been the leading resin system for high performance composite applications requiring long-term use temperatures up to 300°C. A mixture of carboxylic esters and acids, aromatic diamine and norbornyl end caps capable of crosslinking by a reverse Diels—Alder mechanism in methanol is pre-pregged into cloth and under careful processing conditions produces high quality composite parts. Some problems with handling and processing remain in this commercial system and in an attempt to overcome these problems we have synthesized a series of fully cyclized PMR type prepolymers under aqueous imidization conditions. Their solubility and cure behavior have been determined with a view to producing resins that will form good quality, high performance composites. While resins with these characteristics have been obtained, the best of them utilize significant proportions of relatively expensive co-monomers. Almost all of the materials presented in this study have very high temperature stability and high glass transition temperatures, although no one system out performs PMR-15 on a monomer cost basis, the advantages of water as the synthesis solvent includes both its low cost and low toxicity and its ability to fully react the monomers to cyclic imide structures.
Synthesis and Characterization of a POSS-Maleimide Precursor for Hybrid Nanocomposites
Authors: Jothibasu Seetharaman , Premkumar Shanmugam , Alagar Muthukaruppan , Hamerton Ian
Published: July 2007

Epoxy polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS)-based hybrid nanocomposites were prepared by in situ polymerization of a homogeneous blend of the diglycidylether of bisphenol-A and 4,4'diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM) in the presence of octa(maleimidophenyl)silsesquioxane. The reaction of a maleimido-functionalized POSS cube with the epoxy resin was studied by Fourier transform infrared analysis and the formation of nanocomposites was confirmed by wide-angle X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Dynamic mechanical analysis studies indicated that the crosslinking structures of the nanocomposite networks were predominantly formed between the terminal maleimide double bonds and the amino groups of DDM through a Michael addition reaction to form an aspartimide. The values of the glass transition temperatures ( Tg) decreased with increasing POSS-maleimide content and this was likely to be due to the inclusion of POSS cages into the system and the consequent increase in free volume. The dynamic thermal stability of the cured polymers was increased by increasing the POSS content in the hybrid epoxy matrices as evidenced from thermogravimetric analysis data.
Sports Participation Among Females From Adolescence To Adulthood
Authors: Scheerder Jeroen , Thomis Martine , Vanreusel Bart , Lefevre Johan , Renson Roland , Vanden Eynde Bart , Beunen Gaston P.
Published: July 2007

It is widely believed that active participation in sports during youth is an important prerequisite for adult involvement in sports. However, data from reliable longitudinal studies tracking patterns of sports participation from youth into adulthood are scarce. This study addresses the leisure-time sports participation of adult women, 32—41 years of age, from a lifetime sports socialization perspective. Some 20 years after they participated in 1979 in the Leuven Growth Study on Flemish Girls, 257 female adults participated again in a comprehensive questionnaire and face-to-face interview. Inter-age correlations for sports participation are calculated from adolescence into adulthood. Logistic regression modeling and structural equation modeling are used to explain individual differences in adult sports participation. Outcomes indicate that tracking of sports involvement between late adolescence and adulthood is moderately high ( r = .41; beta .42). The results from the multivariate analysis show that sport participation during adolescence is a better predictor of adults' involvement in sports than educational level or parental socioeconomic status. The variances accounted for are rather small, indicating that sport experiences and social background characteristics only partially explain the sport participation behavior of adults. In the sports socialization process, late adolescent sports experience, along with the school program in which an adolescent is involved, appear to play a crucial role in sport involvement in later life. We recommend that youth sports programs need to be examined critically with regard to their contribution to lifetime sports participation.
Birth Spacing Perceptions of Rural Filipinos
Authors: de Vera Noemi Z.
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of rural Filipinos concerning the various factors influencing birth spacing. The Household Production of Health nested in the Ecological Model was used to provide the conceptual framework for this study. Analysis of ethnographic data produced one domain of meaning, Factors Influencing Birth Spacing, and six categories: (a) gender relations, (b) religion and the Catholic Church, (c) contraceptive technology, (d) media, (e) family and friends, and (f) family planning education. Understanding the factors influencing birth spacing in different cultures may provide health care providers with a broader scope for providing culturally competent care.
Can You Keep Them? Strategies to Attract and Retain Nursing Students From Diverse Populations: Best Practices in Nursing Education
Authors: Gilchrist Kathleen L. , Rector Cherie
Published: July 2007

There have been a number of articles addressing diversity in nursing programs and the nursing workforce. However, few of the programs have reviewed the best practices to attract and retain nursing students. This article delineates a number of programs and then makes suggestions for the best practices for nursing schools.
Neighborhood Economic Development Effects of the Earned Income Tax Credit in Los Angeles
Authors: Spencer James H.
Published: July 2007

This paper explores the effect of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) on poor neighborhoods of Los Angeles during the late 1990s. To date, few analyses have empirically examined the impact of people-based policies on the economies of poor neighborhoods. The paper first documents the magnitude of this individual wage subsidy in Los Angeles as an unrecognized investment in poor neighborhoods on par with place-based policies such as Enterprise Zones. The paper then uses IRS and Economic Census data by ZIP Code to test whether increased EITC income has an effect on the neighborhood retail job base. Findings suggest an independent correlation between EITC investments and retail job gain. The conclusion uses these results to suggest better policy coordination and recommend four productive areas for future research.
Police Practices in Immigrant-Destination Cities
Authors: Lewis Paul G. , Ramakrishnan S. Karthick
Published: July 2007

Political incorporation theory suggests that the incorporation of new groups into city electoral politics will precede any improvements in the way that local bureaucracies treat members of those groups. We argue, however, that the logic and sequencing of political incorporation and bureaucratic response do not apply when explaining police practices toward immigrant residents. Drawing on survey evidence and case studies of California cities, we find that police departments are ahead of city councils and other municipal agencies in providing language support and that local elected officials are largely unaware of key practices of their police departments regarding interactions with immigrants. Such findings support the perspective of bureaucratic incorporation of immigrants, in which local bureaucracies proactively develop their own practices, drawing on a professional ethos.
Rethinking the architecture
Authors: Davis Julie M.
Published: July 2007

The thesis as a bulky `tome' with a traditional structure —literature review, methodology, research design, findings and conclusions — is a concept under increasing challenge. Recently, I completed a doctoral action research project based on environmental education in a primary school. However, I found that trying to force the action research process into a linear writing structure was an unsatisfactory experience. After much anxiety and considerable experimentation, I resolved the problem of `fit' between action research and the traditional thesis format by creating an alternative architecture based on each of the action research cycles. While still producing a bulky `doorstopper', I feel this structure is a better reflection of the way the study evolved. This article outlines this new architecture and discusses its rationale. It also challenges other action researchers to innovate and experiment with the ways they represent their research work. Licence for such innovation is rapidly developing especially with the advent of digital thesis production and performative theses. I see no reason why action researchers cannot be leaders in the creation of new forms of practice about how research theses and dissertations are represented in the academy.
Critical reflections on participatory action research for rural development in Iran
Authors: Kamali Bagher
Published: July 2007

Critical reflections are presented from two pilot participatory action research (PAR) projects in rural Iran that aimed to improve communication between state development workers and male and female rural extension workers, and to increase participants' knowledge of participatory communication and their gender awareness. The research team adopted the perspective that people cannot be developed, they can only develop themselves. One of the main findings was that critical gender analysis is valuable in relation to all participants, including the research team. This is important in a predominantly patriarchal system. Conducting this ongoing PAR has been very challenging in a society with a centralized hegemonic structure, where participatory research is very new. In this context, achieving authentic participation and communication requires patience, commitment and sacrifice on the part of action researchers. Despite this, the project has changed the attitudes of rural extension workers and bureaucrats towards a more participatory decision-making process.
Three Stories of Loss and Return
Authors: McCall Michal M.
Published: July 2007

"Land of My Fathers," "Another Mother," and "Someday He'll Come Along" were written for and presented at sessions chaired by Norman Denzin at the Midwest Sociological Society meetings in 1998, 1999, and 2000, respectively. Along with two earlier pieces, "My Mother's Car" and "Sarah and Me," they are intended to answer Denzin's call for new stories about life in postmodern society in his presidential address to the Midwest Sociological Society.
Art, Entertainment, Culture, and Nation
Authors: Alasuutari Pertti
Published: July 2007

This article questions the popular and social science notion of (national) cul ture and the functions of culturespeak. An empirical analysis of the public discussion in Finland during the 1980s and 1990s on national arts and cul ture shows that culture is used as a word that refers to a national way of life and as a synonym for art or other cultural products. Due to changes related to globalization, both dimensions of culturespeak are becoming problem atic. The expansion and deepening of market relations has not only made nation-state cultural protectionism ineffective or impossible but also prob lematized the high-low distinction and affected the underlying notions of the general public. The nationalist rhetoric creates another kind of problem— it is problematic to promote an ethnocultural conception of nationhood and citizenship in today's multicultural Europe and world.
On the Relationship of the Criticism of Ethnographic Writing and the Cultural Studies of Science
Authors: Clough Patricia Ticineto
Published: July 2007

In the wake of the Sokol Affair, there has been a halt to discussion of the broad implications of cultural studies of science. Here these implications are considered in relationship to the critique of ethnographic writing. In treating the latter as part of the cultural studies of science, the author aims to link the critique of ethnographic writing and the cultural studies of science to changes in technology, especially the development of teletechnology. She also hopes to show that both the critique of ethnographic writing and the cultural studies of science have ontological implications fitting the age of teletechnology.
Diasporic Nationalism
Authors: Lie John
Published: July 2007

In the article, the author stresses the significance of the external and diasporic origins of nationalism. To illustrate the argument, the author draws on the examples of modern Japan and Korea.
A Biographical Turn in the Social Sciences? A British-European View
Authors: Wengraf Tom , Chamberlayne Prue , Bornat Joanna
Published: July 2007

Biographical research is increasingly used for understanding current historical and cultural changes and for purposes of education, training, and policy development. This "biographizing" movement is part of a broader picture of shifting configurations of concerns, concepts, and methodologies. In 2000, the introduction to the authors' The Turn to Biographical Methods in Social Science attempted such a picture. The authors wanted to promote greater mutual awareness and partnership between a "German" approach, seen as having a more explicit conceptual and methodological apparatus, and a "British" approach that had a greater concern for power relations around the interview relationship and in processing, interpreting, and reporting. In that text, cultural studies was relatively neglected and treated rather dismissively. The authors welcome the opportunity in this shortened, revised version to include a more extended and reflective treatment of cultural studies. They invite others to tell different stories, to supplement or correct their own
Poetry and Public Life
Authors: Lemert Charles
Published: July 2007

The public life is one entered more by the patience of the poetic ear than by the sharpness of the pen or the truth of the facts.