bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discourse Options and the Development of Pragmatic Competence by Classroom Learners of German: The Case of Address Forms
Authors: Belz Julie A. , Kinginger Celeste
Published: November 2003

This study examines the microgenetic development of second‐person pronoun use in a German‐American telecollaborative partnership. We discuss the sociopragmatic ambiguity of informal (T) and formal (V) pronouns of address (realised asduandSiein German), and the precise issues that these pronouns present for American classroom learners of European languages. Tracing the history of particular learners’ pronoun use over time, the study demonstrates that (a) electronically enabled interaction with expert‐speaking German peers is a context in which learners experience both explicit assistance and opportunities to observe appropriate pronoun use, and (b) pragmatic awareness in this domain is reflected in learner performance that develops toward approximation of the expert norm for interaction among peers.
The Political Activity of Evangelical Clergy in the Election of 2000: A Case Study of Five Denominations
Authors: Guth James L. , Beail Linda , Crow Greg , Gaddy Beverly , Montreal Steve , Nelsen Brent , Penning James , Walz Jeff
Published: November 2003

This article focuses on the political participation of ministers from five evangelical Protestant denominations that differ in theology, polity, and history. Despite such differences, these clergy respond to political influences in much the same fashion. We find that the standard theories of political participation have varying success in accounting for their political involvement. Sociodemographic explanations provide little help, but psychological engagement with politics has more explanatory power. Professional role orientations are the best predictors of actual participation. And the clergy who see moral reform issues as the most important confronting the country—and who hold conservative views on such issues—are most likely to become engaged. Finally, membership in Christian Right organizations serves to elicit more activity than might occur if ministers were left to internally motivated participation. Despite the emphasis on other contextual variables in some work on clerical politics, we find that communications exposures, congregational influences, and even the support of clerical colleagues have very limited independent effects on political involvement.
The Politics of the Willow Creek Association Pastors
Authors: Kellstedt Lyman A. , Green John C.
Published: November 2003

The Willow Creek Association (WCA), a loose association of some 8,000 churches with a common interest in evangelizing using the “seeker” model pioneered by the Willow Creek Community Church, is a good example of a postmodern religious association. A survey of clergy whose churches belong to WCA reveals the membership of the WCA to be diverse, with a large membership from mainline and evangelical denominations. However, the clergy are orthodox in theology, conservative in social theology and on political issues, and generally Republican in partisanship. These pastors are also very active in politics and their churches are deeply involved in the provision of social services. Differences among WCA pastors, especially between the mainline and evangelical Protestants, suggest that the WCA will not evolve into a denomination in the near future. However, the communalities among these clergy reveal the potential of postmodern associations to serve as a forum for cross‐denominational coalition building on key issues.
American Rabbis in the 2000 Elections
Authors: Djupe Paul A. , Sokhey Anand E.
Published: November 2003

The 2000 elections were watershed elections for the Jewish community. Joseph Lieberman, an observant Orthodox Jew, was nominated to be the Democratic vice presidential candidate and the events in Florida and New York highlighted the important role of the Jewish community in American politics. The 2000 elections were, therefore, a perfect time to assess the Jewish religious community's connection to politics. Although the central place of American Jews in the Democratic coalition has been long established and continued in 2000, the role of rabbis in maintaining that connection has not been explored empirically. We investigate how rabbis of the four great Jewish movements sustain Jewish political connections, asking: How do rabbis participate in politics, how do their political agendas resonate with their political action, how did they respond to Lieberman's candidacy, and what political information did they transmit to their congregations?
Fos expression in serotonergic neurons in the rat brainstem following noxious stimuli: an immunohistochemical double‐labelling study
Authors: Chen Tao , Dong Yuan‐Xiang , Li Yun‐Qing
Published: November 2003

In order to detect whether there were different expression patterns of Fos protein induced by somatic or visceral noxious stimulation in the serotonergic neurons in the rat brainstem, an immunohistochemical double‐labelling technique for serotonin (5‐HT) and Fos was employed after subcutaneous or stomach injection of formalin. The two stimuli were matched in pilot experiments to produce maximum Fos expression. The expression of Fos protein in 5‐HT‐containing neurons (5‐HT/Fos co‐localized neurons) could be observed in the ventrolateral subdivision of the midbrain periaqueductal grey, interpeduncular nucleus, paramedian raphe nucleus, all of the brainstem raphe nuclei, the alpha part of the gigantocellular reticular nucleus and the lateral paragigantocellular reticular nucleus. The locations of the 5‐HT/Fos co‐localized neurons in the brainstem of animals subjected to somatic noxious stimulation were similar to those subjected to visceral noxious stimulation. However, the number and proportion of the 5‐HT/Fos co‐localized neurons in the median raphe nucleus and nucleus raphe obscurus of the rat subjected to visceral noxious stimulation were statistically greater than those in rats subjected to somatic noxious stimulation. These results suggest that serotonergic neurons in median raphe nucleus and nucleus raphe obscurus have a tendency to higher neuronal activity after visceral noxious stimulation.
Human intervertebral disc cell morphology and cytoskeletal composition: a preliminary study of regional variations in health and disease
Authors: Johnson W. E. B. , Roberts S.
Published: November 2003

Classically, intervertebral disc cells have been described as fibrocytic in the anulus fibrosus and chondrocytic in the nucleus pulposus. Recent animal studies, however, have suggested that disc cell morphology may be more complex than previously considered. Here, by utilizing labelling of components of the cytoskeleton in combination with confocal microscopy, we have examined the detailed morphology of human intervertebral disc cells in pathological and non‐pathological tissue. Filamentous‐actin‐ and vimentin‐positive cells that appeared either fibrocytic or chondrocytic were observed in all intervertebral discs. However, in localized areas of the disc, stellate cells that extended multiple, branching cytoplasmic processes into their surrounding matrix were also seen. This stellate appearance formed a marked feature of disc cells regionally in certain pathologies, i.e. in cells of the outer anulus fibrosus in scoliotic discs and in inner anulus/nucleus pulposus cells in one spondylolisthetic disc. We conclude that the phenotypic variation of human intervertebral disc cells should be extended to include cells with a stellate appearance, which may be more prevalent in tissue that has been subjected to abnormal load or tension.
Co‐activation of PKA and PKC in cerebrocortical nerve terminals synergistically facilitates glutamate release
Authors: Millán Carmelo , Torres Magdalena , Sánchez‐Prieto José
Published: November 2003

Protein kinase A and protein kinase C are involved in processes that enhance glutamate release at glutamatergic nerve terminals. However, it is not known whether these two kinases co‐exist within the same nerve terminal, nor is it clear what impact their simultaneous activation may have on neurotransmitter release. In cerebrocortical nerve terminals, co‐application of forskolin, which increases cAMP levels and activates protein kinase A, and 4β‐phorbol dibutyrate, a direct activator of protein kinase C, synergistically enhanced the spontaneous release of glutamate. This enhancement exhibited both tetrodotoxin‐sensitive and tetrodotoxin‐resistant components. Interestingly, the tetrodotoxin‐resistant component of release was not observed when cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinase (PKA) and calcium‐ and phospholipid‐dependent protein kinase (PKC) were activated separately, but developed slowly after the co‐activation of the two kinases, accounting for 50% of the facilitated release. This release component was dependent on voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channels that opened spontaneously after PKA and PKC activation and occurred in the absence of Na+ channel firing. These data provide functional evidence for the co‐existence of PKA‐ and PKC‐signalling pathways in a subpopulation of glutamatergic nerve terminals.
Differential distribution of CREB in the mesolimbic dopamine reward pathway
Authors: Walters Carrie L. , Kuo Yuo‐Chen , Blendy Julie A.
Published: November 2003

The transcription factor cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) has been implicated in the long‐term neuronal plasticity associated with addiction. While CREB is expressed in many cells throughout the brain, very little is known about the relative concentrations of CREB protein in various brain regions. Studies in which CREB levels have been altered, either constitutively throughout the brain via gene targeting or transiently in specific brain regions, demonstrate variable roles for this protein in mediating reinforcing properties of drugs of abuse. To investigate the complex nature of CREB function in addiction, we examined the distribution of CREB protein in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and ventral tegmental area (VTA), two brain regions that are part of the well‐defined mesolimbic dopamine pathway involved in reward processing. Our data demonstrate significantly more CRE binding activity and CREB protein in the NAc compared to levels present in the VTA of wild‐type mice. Phospho‐CREB levels are increased in the NAc of both wild‐type and CREBαΔ mutant animals after cocaine. However, morphine‐induced increases of phospho‐CREB levels are seen in the VTA of wild‐type mice but not CREBαΔ mutant mice. Consequently, the 90% reduction of CREB in CREBαΔ mutant mice differentially affects CREB phosphorylation and induction of downstream targets of CREB in the NAc and VTA.
A point mutation uncouples transducin‐α from the photoreceptor RGS and effector proteins
Authors: Natochin Michael , Artemyev Nikolai O.
Published: November 2003

A novel gain‐of‐function mutation, R243Q, has been recently identified in the Candida elegans Gqα protein EGL‐30. The position corresponding to Arg243 in EGL‐30 is absolutely conserved among heterotrimeric G proteins. This mutation appears to be the first gain‐of‐function mutation in the switch III region of Gα subunits. To investigate consequences of the R→Q mutation we introduced the corresponding R238Q mutation into transducin‐like Gtα* subunit. The mutant retained intact interactions with Gtβγ and rhodopsin but exhibited a twofold reduction in the kcat value for guanosine 5'‐triphosphate (GTP) hydrolysis. The GTPase activity of R238Q was not accelerated by the RGS domain of the visual GTPase‐activating protein, RGS9‐1. In addition, R238Q displayed a significant impairment in the effector function. Our data and the crystal structures of transducin suggest that the major reason for the reduced intrinsic GTPase activity of R238Q and the lack of RGS9 function is the break of the conserved ionic contact between Arg238 and Glu39, which apparently stabilizes the transitional state for GTP hydrolysis. We hypothesize that the R243Q mutation in EGL‐30 severs the ionic interaction of Arg243 with Glu43, leading to a defective inactivation of the mutant by the C. elegans RGS protein EAT‐16.
Real‐time decoding of dopamine concentration changes in the caudate–putamen during tonic and phasic firing
Authors: Venton B. Jill , Zhang Hui , Garris Paul A. , Phillips Paul E. M. , Sulzer David , Wightman R. Mark
Published: November 2003

The fundamental process that underlies volume transmission in the brain is the extracellular diffusion of neurotransmitters from release sites to distal target cells. Dopaminergic neurons display a range of activity states, from low‐frequency tonic firing to bursts of high‐frequency action potentials (phasic firing). However, it is not clear how this activity affects volume transmission on a subsecond time scale. To evaluate this, we developed a finite‐difference model that predicts the lifetime and diffusion of dopamine in brain tissue. We first used this model to decode in vivo amperometric measurements of electrically evoked dopamine, and obtained rate constants for release and uptake as well as the extent of diffusion. Accurate predictions were made under a variety of conditions including different regions, different stimulation parameters and with uptake inhibited. Second, we used the decoded rate constants to predict how heterogeneity of dopamine release and uptake sites would affect dopamine concentration fluctuations during different activity states in the absence of an electrode. These simulations show that synchronous phasic firing can produce spatially and temporally heterogeneous concentration profiles whereas asynchronous tonic firing elicits uniform, steady‐state dopamine concentrations.
Characterization of Cln3p, the gene product responsible for juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, as a lysosomal integral membrane glycoprotein
Authors: Ezaki Junji , Takeda‐Ezaki Mitsue , Koike Masato , Ohsawa Yoshiyuki , Taka Hikari , Mineki Reiko , Murayama Kimie , Uchiyama Yasuo , Ueno Takashi , Kominami Eiki
Published: November 2003

Juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (JNCL) is an autosomal recessively inherited lysosomal storage disease involving a mutation in the CLN3 gene. The sequence of CLN3 was determined in 1995; however, the localization of the CLN3 gene product (Cln3p) was not confirmed. In this study, we investigated endogenous Cln3p using two peptide antibodies raised against two distinct epitopes of murine Cln3p. Identification of the liver 60 kDa protein as Cln3p was ascertained by amino acid sequence analysis using tandem mass spectrometry. Liver Cln3p was predominantly localized in the lysosomal membranes, not in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or Golgi apparatus. As the tissue concentration of brain Cln3p was much lower than that of liver Cln3p, it could be detected only after purification from brain extract using anti‐Cln3p IgG Sepharose. The apparent molecular masses of liver Cln3p and brain Cln3p were determined to be about 60 kDa and 55 kDa, respectively. Both brain and liver Cln3p were deglycosylated by PNGase F treatment to form polypeptides with almost the same molecular mass (45 kDa). However, they were not affected by Endo h treatment. In addition, it was also elucidated that the amino terminal region of Cln3p faces the cytosol.
Characterization of microsatellite loci for Reissita simonyi (Rebel, 1899) (Lepidoptera, Zygaenidae)
Authors: Klütsch C. F. C. , Misof B. , Naumann C. M.
Published: November 2003

The newly developed microsatellite set for Reissita simonyi (Rebel 1899) (Lepidoptera, Zyganidae) is presented. In total, 14 loci turned out to be highly polymorphic. The microsatellite set will be used for a population genetic analysis of this endemic species in Southern Arabia. In the focus of this study stands the genetic differentiation and variability of isolated populations, which are assumed to be based on habitat fragmentation due to natural processes and human impact. Moreover, this new microsatellite set showed accurate band patterns in the Palaearctic genus Zygaena which seems to be promising for further studies.
Microsatellite loci for paternity analysis in the fathead minnow, Pimephales promelas (Teleostei: Cyprinidae)
Authors: Bessert Michael L. , Ortí Guillermo
Published: November 2003

Many recent studies have employed molecular markers to uncover important aspects of mating systems in teleost fishes. The fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) is a nest‐building North American cyprinid that spawns multiply and exhibits exclusive male parental care. A battery of microsatellite markers was developed to analyse paternity in this species. The seven characterized loci possess four to 31 alleles and expected heterozygosities of 0.455–0.974. In combination, they elicit an exclusion probability of 0.999, a desirable level for paternity analysis. In addition, cross‐amplifications were conducted to test primer efficacy in 13 other taxa, including two congeners.
Characterization of microsatellite markers for the apicultural pest Varroa destructor (Acari: Varroidae) and its relatives
Authors: Solignac Michel , Vautrin Dominique , Pizzo Astrid , Navajas Maria , Le Conte Yves , Cornuet Jean‐Marie
Published: November 2003

Sixteen microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized for Varroa destructor using two procedures to screen genomic libraries. Together with those previously designed, they provide useful markers for the study of this harmful apicultural pest whose populations on Apis mellifera are poorly variable. Observed variability has been expressed as the number of alleles because heterozygosity is only rarely present. The defined primers have been assayed on another species of the same genus (V. jacobsoni) and almost half of them successfully cross‐amplified and revealed polymorphism. These results suggest that the microsatellites isolated here should prove useful for population studies in different Varroa species.
Polymorphic microsatellite markers for the antPlagiolepis pygmaea
Authors: Trontti K. , Tay W. T. , Sundström L.
Published: November 2003

Detailed studies on kin structure, mating patterns and dispersal in social insects require highly polymorphic markers, of which the most commonly used today are DNA microsatellites. Here we characterize 10 polymorphic microsatellite markers for the antPlagiolepis pygmaea. We also investigated the within‐genus applicability of the markers onP. xene, a social parasite of the source species. In addition, we tested amplification of the markers in three species of the generaFormicaandLasius. Eight of the markers also amplified inP. xeneand were polymorphic. Seven markers amplified in at least one other formicine ant.
Development and characterization of polymorphic microsatellites from Prunus avium‘Napoleon’
Authors: Clarke J. B. , Tobutt K. R.
Published: November 2003

Primers were developed for 21 microsatellite loci isolated by enrichment from Prunus avium‘Napoleon’. Twelve loci contained uninterrupted dinucleotide repeats and nine were more complex. Nineteen primer pairs (EMPA001–019) showed single locus polymorphisms in a cultivar survey of 14 sweet cherries, with two to seven alleles per locus. Three primer pairs in combination (EMPA014, 015 and 018) discriminated all cultivars. Two primer pairs for loci monomorphic in P. avium were included: EMPA020 revealed segregation in an interspecific progeny and EMPA021 revealed polymorphism in P. dulcis. Twelve primer pairs reliably amplified products in three peach cultivars of which seven revealed polymorphisms.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in the olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus)
Authors: Kim W. J. , Kim K. K. , Lee J. H. , Park D. W. , Park J. Y. , Lee J. Y.
Published: November 2003

We described the isolation and characterization of 27 new microsatellite loci from olive flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus. All loci were found to be polymorphic, and had between five and 22 alleles with observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.161 to 1.0 in 31 individuals examined. These micorsatellite makers are likely to be useful for studies of genome mapping, mating systems and population genetics in this species.
Development and characterization of 10 novel microsatellite markers from Chital deer (Cervus axis) and their cross–amplification in other related species
Authors: Gaur A. , Singh A. , Arunabala V. , Umapathy G. , Shailaja K. , Singh L.
Published: November 2003

Ten polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized from Chital deer (Cervus axis). These loci show high levels of allelic diversity with four to eight alleles per locus in the 22 individuals of the free‐ranging population of Chital deer in Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad. In addition, we found that all the loci show cross–amplification in closely related as well as distantly related deer species. The amplification of these markers in different genera further indicates that these can be applied to a wide range of endangered deer species for their population genetics studies and conservation management.
Characterization of microsatellite DNA loci for the southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans)
Authors: Fokidis H. Bobby , Schable Nancy A. , Hagen Cris , Glenn Travis C. , Risch Thomas S.
Published: November 2003

Polymerase chain reaction primers for microsatellite DNA loci (one dinucleotide, four tetranucleotide and two compound) and the conditions necessary to amplify each are described for the southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans). These primers were tested on 22 or more individuals from a population at the Savannah River Site in South Carolina. These microsatellite primers yielded a high allelic diversity (6–22 alleles/locus), and moderate to high observed heterozygosities (0.318–0.826). Primers developed for the northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus) were also tested for use on G. volans, with only two successful cross amplifications from the seven loci.
New microsatellite loci for the socially diverse paper wasp genusRopalidia
Authors: Henshaw M. T. , Crozier Y. C. , Crozier R. H.
Published: November 2003

The Polistine wasps include both independent‐founding species, with small, single‐queen colonies founded by one or a few potential queens, and swarm‐founding species, which have larger societies, many queens and initiate colonies as a swarm of queens and workers. Swarm‐founding evolved from independent‐founding andRopalidiais the only genus with both types, making it an excellent model system for understanding this dramatic shift in colony organization. We have isolated 18 polymorphic microsatellite loci from three species ofRopalidia, including two independent‐founding and one swarm‐founding species. These loci will allow us to reconstruct colony social and genetic structures in this important genus.
Isolation and characterization of nine microsatellite markers from Coffea arabica L., showing wide cross‐species amplifications
Authors: Baruah A. , Naik V. , Hendre P. S. , Rajkumar R. , Rajendrakumar P. , Aggarwal R. K.
Published: November 2003

Genetic improvement of coffee (Coffea arabica L.) is constrained by low genetic diversity and lack of genetic markers, suitable screening tools, information on the genetic make‐up of available gene pool and long generation time. In this context, use of DNA markers such as microsatellites that provide high genetic‐resolution becomes highly desirable. Here, we report the development of nine new microsatellite markers from partial genomic library of an elite variety of Coffea arabica. The developed microsatellites revealed robust cross‐species amplifications in 17 related species of coffee, and their Polymorphic Information Content varied from 0 to 0.6, 0 to 0.78 and 0.67 to 0.90 for the arabica, robusta genotypes and species representatives, respectively. The data thus suggest their potential use as genetic markers for assessment of germplasm diversity and linkage analysis of coffee.
A set of primers for length and nucleotide‐substitution polymorphism in chloroplastic DNA of Olea europaea L. (Oleaceae)
Authors: Besnard G. , De Casas R. Rubio , Vargas P.
Published: November 2003

Chloroplastic DNA (cpDNA) variation at five microsatellite motifs, two insertion‐deletion sites, and eight nucleotide substitution sites was investigated in the Olea europaea complex. Primers were designed for flanking regions of these sites to amplify short cpDNA regions. They provided polymorphism when polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products from a representative sample of 128 O. europaea individuals were either resolved by size into polyacrylamide gels (length polymorphism) or digested with restriction enzymes (nucleotide‐substitution polymorphism). These polymorphisms serve to distinguish most of the cytoplasmic haplotypes previously recognized. Potential application of these markers in O. europaea includes phylogeography, conservation and germplasm identification, even when using poorly preserved material from herbarium specimens or forensic and archaeological materials.
Polymorphic microsatellite markers for paternity assessment in southern calamari Sepioteuthis australis (Cephalopoda: Loliginidae)
Authors: Van Camp L. M. , Saint K. M. , Donnellan S. , Havenhand J. N. , Fairweather P. G.
Published: November 2003

Recent decades have seen the fast growth of cephalopod fisheries but their management is compromised by the critical gaps in our knowledge of cephalopod life histories. Molecular markers are invaluable tools for studying the evolutionary significance and management implications of variation in mating systems. We have developed seven polymorphic microsatellite loci for mating system analysis in the southern calamari Sepioteuthis australis Quoy & Gaimard 1833 using magnetic enrichment and colony hybridization techniques. Observed heterozygosities range from 32% to 100% and will have sufficient power to examine the relative success of alternate mating strategies in S. australis.
Case Study: The Lemba
Authors: Johnston Josephine
Published: November 2003

The attempts of scholars and scientists to unravel the mystery of the ancestral origins of the Lemba are summarised, focusing on Tudor Parfitt's book, Journey to the Vanished City, and a study by an international group of genetic and social scientists. The impact of this research on identity questions is raised.
Constructing Black Jews: Genetic Tests and the Lemba – the ‘Black Jews’ of South Africa
Authors: Parfitt Tudor
Published: November 2003

This commentary examines the use of Y‐chromosome testing to reconstruct a genetic ancestry for the Lemba, a group in southern Africa that has long considered itself Jewish. The commentary looks especially at the reasons why this project drew such attention from the mainstream media.
The Ethical and Social Implications of Exploring African American Genealogies
Authors: Dula Annette , Royal Charmaine , Secundy Marian Gray , Miles Steven
Published: November 2003

In June 2002, the University of Minnesota hosted a conference to explore the implications of using genetic technologies and genealogical methods to reconstruct African identity. This paper includes transcribed remarks from that conference by Annette Dula, Marian Gray Secundy and Charmaine Royal.
Genetic Ancestry Tracing and the African Identity: A Double‐Edged Sword?
Authors: Rotimi Charles N.
Published: November 2003

As both a geneticist and a Nigerian living in the United States, the author responds to the prospect of African Americans using genetic science to trace their ancestry to the African continent. He articulates concerns about both the limitations of the science to offer satisfying, accurate, and meaningful results, and the ability of individuals to make real, life‐altering sense of these results. However, he notes that given the history and impact of slavery on African Americans, the desire to trace roots to Africa is both real and understandable.
Chimerical Categories: Caste, Race, and Genetics
Authors: Sabir Sharjeel
Published: November 2003

Is discrimination based on caste equivalent to racism? This paper explores the complex relationship between genetic, race and caste. It also discusses the debate over the exclusion of a discussion of caste‐based discrimination at the 2001 World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance held in Durban, South Africa.
Place, Priestly Status and Purity: The Impact of Genetic Research on an Indian Jewish Community
Authors: Parfitt Tudor
Published: November 2003

The Bene Israel is a Jewish community in western India whose origins are unknown from conventional sources. This paper discusses a genetic ancestry study that mapped Bene Israel geneaologies and the impact of the study on the Bene Israel.
Allergic rhinitis and quality of life: where are we?
Authors: Majani G. , Baiardini I. , Giardini A. , Pasquali M. , Tosca M. A. , Canonica G. W.
Published: November 2003

Health‐Related Quality of Life (QoL) considers the impact of both illness and treatment on a patient's life as perceived by the patient himself. As well as providing information on how a disease affects a patient's life, QoL instruments could provide important information concerning the treatment outcomes. The SF‐36 enlighted a significant impairment in eight of the nine QoL domains in patients with persistent allergic rhinitis, compared to healthy subjects. In seasonal rhinitis a patient's satisfaction profile does not show consistent changes before and after the pollen season. Adherence to treatment and caregivers' and relatives' QoL assessment still deserve more attention. In conclusion there is still a long way to go towards a full knowledge of QoL in allergic rhinitis.
What's My Line? A Comparison of Industry Classification Schemes for Capital Market Research
Authors: Bhojraj Sanjeev , Lee Charles M. C. , Oler Derek K.
Published: November 2003

This study compares four broadly available industry classification schemes in a variety of applications common to capital market research. Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes have been available since 1939 but are being replaced by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes. The Global Industry Classifications Standard (GICS)SM system, jointly developed by Standard & Poor's and Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI), is popular among financial practitioners, whereas the Fama and French [1997] algorithm is used primarily by academics. Our results show that GICS classifications are significantly better at explaining stock return comovements, as well as cross‐sectional variations in valuation multiples, forecasted and realized growth rates, research and development expenditures, and various key financial ratios. The GICS advantage is consistent from year to year and is most pronounced among large firms. The other three methods differ little from each other in most applications.
The Role of Supplementary Statements with Management Earnings Forecasts
Authors: Hutton Amy P. , Miller Gregory S. , Skinner Douglas J.
Published: November 2003

We investigate managers' decisions to supplement their firms' management earnings forecasts. We classify these supplementary disclosures as qualitative “soft talk” disclosures or verifiable forward‐looking statements. We find that managers provide soft talk disclosures with similar frequency for good and bad news forecasts but are more likely to supplement good news forecasts with verifiable forward‐looking statements. We examine the market response to these forecasts and find that bad news earnings forecasts are always informative but that good news forecasts are informative only when supplemented by verifiable forward‐looking statements, supporting our argument that these statements bolster the credibility of good news forecasts.
Continuation of exchange with neighbors in later life: The importance of the neighborhood context
Authors: Thomése Fleur , Tilburg Theo Van , Knipscheer Kees C. P. M.
Published: November 2003

Relationships with neighbors are considered exchange relationships, in which the continuation of exchanges depends on balance in previous exchanges. Our study tested whether this is the case. An exchange relationship implies that neighbor relationships are isolated units. We expected, however, that neighborhood integration also affects the continuation of exchange among neighbors. Data were from a longitudinal study among 1,692 independently living Dutch adults of ages 55 to 85 years at baseline and their 7,415 relationships with proximate network members. At a four–year follow–up, both perceived balance and neighborhood integration at baseline increased the chance of instrumental support exchange occurring. We concluded that it is too limited to view relationships between neighbors as exchange relationships, as these relationships are embedded in larger communities, where such communities exist.
Location of Mutation in the KCNQ1 and Phenotypic Presentation of Long QT Syndrome
Authors: ZAREBA WOJCIECH , MOSS ARTHUR J. , SHEU GLORIA , KAUFMAN ELIZABETH S. , PRIORI SILVIA , VINCENT G. MICHAEL , TOWBIN JEFFREY A. , BENHORIN JESAIA , SCHWARTZ PETER J. , NAPOLITANO CARLO , HALL W. JACKSON , KEATING MARK T. , QI MING , ROBINSON JENNIFER L. , ANDREWS MARK L. ,   International LQTS Registry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York
Published: November 2003

Introduction: Recent data showed that long QT syndrome (LQTS) patients with mutations in the pore region of the HERG (LQT2) gene have significantly higher risk of cardiac events than subjects with mutations in the non‐pore region. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an association between the location of mutations in the KCNQ1 gene and cardiac events in LQT1 patients.

Methods and Results: The study population consisted of 294 LQT1 patients with KCNQ1 gene mutations. Demographic, clinical, and follow‐up information was compared among subjects with different locations of KCNQ1 mutations defined as pre‐pore region including N‐terminus (1–278), pore region (279–354), and post‐pore region including C‐terminus (>354). Cardiac events observed during follow‐up from birth until age of last contact or age 40 years were defined as syncope, cardiac arrest, or sudden death. There were 164 (56%) LQT1 patients with pre‐pore mutations, 101 (34%) with pore mutations, and 29 (10%) with post‐pore mutations. QTc duration did not differ significantly among the three subgroups (mean QTc = 494, 487, and 501 ms, respectively). There was no significant difference between groups with regard to the risk of cardiac events by age 40 years.

Conclusion: There are no significant differences in clinical presentation, ECG parameters, and cardiac events among LQT1 patients with different locations of KCNQ1 mutations. These findings indicate that factors other than location of mutation influence clinical phenotype in patients with LQT1 mutations. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. 1149‐1153, November 2003)
Iontophoresis with or without dexamethazone in the treatment of acute Achilles tendon pain
Authors: Neeter C. , Thomeé R. , Silbernagel K. G. , Thomeé P. , Karlsson J.
Published: November 2003

The purpose of this double‐blind study was to evaluate the effects of iontophoresis with dexamethazone to iontophoresis with saline solution on patients who had acute (less than 3 months) pain from the Achilles tendon, in terms of range of motion, muscular endurance, pain and symptoms. Twenty‐five patients (15 men and 10 women), aged between 18 and 76 years (mean = 38), were evaluated before and after 2 weeks of treatment with iontophoresis, as well as after 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months and 1 year. Two groups were treated for 2 weeks with iontophoresis for each treatment. Three ml of dexamethazone were used for the experiment group (n = 14) and 3 ml of saline solution for the control group (n = 11). Both groups then followed the same rehabilitation programme for 10 weeks. Good reliability was found for the toe‐raise and range of motion tests. Poor reliability was, however, found for the pain on palpation test, which was therefore excluded. No difference was found between or within groups for the toe‐raise test. Several significant improvements were seen in the experiment group but not in the control group, in the range of motion test, pain during and after physical activity, pain during walking and walking up and down stairs, morning stiffness and tendon swelling. Even though the small sample size limits the possibilities to draw definite conclusions, we conclude from the present study, using a double‐blind, randomised approach and a 1‐year follow‐up period, that positive effects from using iontophoresis with dexamethazone were found in the treatment of patients with acute Achilles tendon pain.
The Office of Management and Budget in a Changing Scene
Authors: Mosher Frederick C. , Stephenson Max O.
Published: November 2003

Authors' Note: It is too early to provide a definitive view and appraisal of the Office of Management and Budget in the Reagan presidency. The discussion that follows is based partly on current and recent articles and a few recent monographs and books, many of which are credited in footnotes. In additon we have relied upon a considerable number of interviews with current participants and alumni of OMB as well as with some observers from outside. It would be impracticable to list those who helped us, but we are grateful to all of them. The substance of this article was completed in mid‐July 1982.
Estimation of Optimal Blank Holder Force Trajectories in Segmented Binders Using an ARMA Model
Authors: Krishnan Neil , Cao Jian
Published: November 2003

Sheet metal forming is one of the most important and frequently used manufacturing processes in industry today. One of the key parameters affecting the forming process is the blank holder force (BHF). In the past, researchers have demonstrated the advantages of varying the blank holder force during the forming process, that is, the two primary modes of failure in sheet metal forming (wrinkling and tearing) are avoided. This gives rise to improved formability, higher accuracy and better part consistency. In recent years, researchers have also shown increasing interest in forming processes where the blank holder force is varied spatially with the help of segmented binders or flexible binders. In this paper, we have combined the above two aspects and used a robust method to determine the blank holder force trajectories for a non-circular part using segmented binders. The proposed strategy is verified by implementing it into a finite element simulation. Binder force is treated as a system input. The displacement of the binder is used as a measure of the tendency to wrinkle, and is therefore treated as a system output. The parameters of the system are continuously identified and updated using a deterministic Auto-Regressive Moving-Average model (ARMA). The model is then used to control the binder displacement to a prescribed value by adjusting the system input, i.e., the binder force. In this manner, individual binder force profiles for each of the segmented binders are obtained. Due to the generic nature of the ARMA model, the strategy proposed in this paper can be applied to a variety of forming problems, making it a robust approach.
Gear Forging: Mathematical Modeling and Experimental Validation
Authors: Sadeghi M. H.
Published: November 2003

A useful facility to the adaptation of precision gear forging by industry, is a quick method of load and flow predictions. In this work, the process of precision forging spur and helical gears is modeled by means of an upper bound analysis. A new velocity field, which includes bulging of the tooth form, is proposed and a computerized incremental procedure for the prediction of the bulged surface profile of the teeth, the forging load, and its increase due to corner filling is presented. The effect of workpiece/die interface friction, gear module, numbers of teeth, helix angle, gear height and bore size on forging pressure are determined. Experimental results obtained for room and elevated temperature forgings compared well with theoretical predictions.
Mechanistic Understanding of Material Detachment During Micro-Scale Polishing
Authors: Che W. , Guo Y. , Chandra A. , Bastawros A-F.
Published: November 2003

A combined experimental and modeling approach has been devised to understand the material removal mechanism during abrasion of ductile copper discs. First, single grit scratch intersection experiments are conducted at the micro-scale (with 1-30 μm depth of cut). This is followed by FEM analysis. Then a simple analytical model is developed, and the model prediction is verified against experimental observations and results from numerical simulations. A characteristic material detachment length is correlated between experimental observations and model predictions. The insights gained from this exercise may be used to develop a mechanistic model of material removal in chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) of ductile materials.
Calculations pertaining to the use of fast (≲50‐MeV) neutrons in cancer radiotherapy
Authors: Alsmiller R. G. , Barish J.
Published: November 2003

Calculated results are presented for a variety of neutron spectra incident on a tissue‐equivalent phantom. The neutron spectra considered are those produced by 35‐ and 50‐MeV deuterons in a thick beryllium target and by 67‐MeV protons in a thick lithium target. Results are presented for the absorbed doses, LET spectra, cell‐survival probabilities, OERs, and RBEs as a function of position in the phantom. The cell‐inactivation calculations were carried out using the model of Katz et al. and parameters for T‐1 kidney cells. In the case of incident neutrons from 35‐MeV 2H on Be, experimental and calculated absorbed‐dose data are compared as a function of position in the phantom and are shown to be in good agreement.
Downtime experience for clinical linear accelerators
Authors: Bjärngard B. E. , McEwen D. A.
Published: November 2003

The downtime for four linear accelerators in clinical radiation therapy has been studied for about four years. The time lost during patient treatment hours is on the average 3% with an in‐house technical service group, which invests approximately 1000 man‐hours per machine and year in preventive maintenance and repair. The time lost decreases significantly with time after installation.
An examination of different mathematical models for renal function as measured by 131I–hippuran renography
Authors: Lindmo T. , Skretting A. , Nakken K. F.
Published: November 2003

The aim of this study is to present a comparison between different mathematical models that can be used to represent renal function, as characterized by the I–hippuran method. Based on physiological considerations, a general model for renal function is established, and three special and less complex models are derived a priori by choosing special values for some of the parameters of the general model. The three special models have previously been investigated by other authors. A general‐purpose computer program has been developed to fit any of the four models to the kinetic data. Parameters inherently dependent on the detection technique are calculated by a special method independent of the estimation of the physiologically relevant model parameters. Output from the computer program is used to determine which model gives the most relevant interpretation of I–hippuran renographic curves. In accordance with recent examinations performed by other workers, the results seem to indicate that each kidney can be satisfactorily represented by an ordinary compartment in series with a “delay compartment.”
An intercomparison of the modulation transfer functions of square and circular focal spots
Authors: Rao Gopala U. V. , Soong An‐Liang
Published: November 2003

In field emission x‐ray tubes, the target is conical in shape and the projection of the focal spot along the central axis a circular disk. To determine the resolution capability of such tubes, a theoretical expression has been derived for the MTF of a circular focal spot. It has been shown that the MTF is given by the equation where m is the magnification factor, f0 the spatial frequency in the object plane, and δ the diameter of the focal spot. J1 stands for the Bessel function of the first order. The above expression has been tested experimentally and used to compare circular focal spots with square focal spots.
An approach to summarizing interrelations between functions used in radiotherapy dose calculations
Authors: Shrivastava P. N.
Published: November 2003

An approach to summarizing interrelations between functions used in radiotherapy dose calculations is suggested. A mnemonic diagram is proposed which should be useful for radiation physicists in radiotherapy to obtain at a quick glance the definitions and interrelations between the commonly used functions like back‐scatter factor, percent depth dose, tissue–air ratio, scatter–air ratio, and scatter function. The conditions under which the measurements must be made for these functions and interrelations to be valid are described. Rules for application of the diagram and some practical examples are included. The diagram also serves as a very effective teaching aid.
Translocated Intimin Receptor and Its Chaperone Interact with ATPase of the Type III Secretion Apparatus of EnteropathogenicEscherichia coli
Authors: Gauthier Annick , Finlay B. Brett
Published: November 2003

Few interactions have been reported between effectors and components of the type III secretion apparatus, although many interactions have been demonstrated between type III effectors and their cognate chaperones. It is thought that chaperones may play a role in directing effectors to the type III secretion apparatus. The ATPase FliI in the flagellar assembly apparatus plays a pivotal role in interacting with other components of the apparatus and with substrates of the flagellar system. We performed experiments to determine if there were any interactions between the effector Tir and its chaperone CesT and the type III secretion apparatus of enteropathogenicEscherichia coli(EPEC). Specifically, based on analogies with the flagella system, we examined Tir-CesT interactions with the putative ATPase EscN. We showed by affinity chromatography that EscN and Tir bind CesT specifically. Tir is not necessary for CesT and EscN interactions, and EscN binds Tir specifically without its chaperone CesT. Moreover, Tir directly binds EscN, as shown via gel overlay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and coimmunoprecipitation experiments revealed that Tir interacts with EscN inside EPEC. These data provide evidence for direct interactions between a chaperone, effector, and type III component in the pathogenic type III secretion system and suggest a model for Tir translocation whereby its chaperone, CesT, brings Tir to the type III secretion apparatus by specifically interacting with the type III ATPase EscN.
Structural Analysis of the Peptide Pheromone Receptor PlnB, a Histidine Protein Kinase fromLactobacillus plantarum
Authors: Johnsborg Ola , Diep Dzung B. , Nes Ingolf F.
Published: November 2003

Intercellular communication plays a key role in the regulation of several physiological processes in gram-positive bacteria. Cell-cell communication is often mediated by secreted inducer peptide pheromones (IPs), which upon reaching a threshold concentration in the environment specifically activate a cognate membrane-localized histidine protein kinase (HPK). Interestingly, the majority of IP-activated HPKs fall into one distinct subfamily (HPK10). As part of an effort to study the mechanism underlying pheromone-mediated activation of the HPK10subfamily, the present work investigated the membrane topology of PlnB fromLactobacillus plantarum. Gene fusion experiments withEscherichia coliandLactobacillus sakei, using alkaline phosphatase, β-lactamase, and β-galactosidase reporter fusions, suggested that PlnB is anchored to the cytoplasmic membrane via seven transmembrane segments. By domain switching between HPK10members, it was demonstrated that the determinants for pheromone binding and specificity are contained within the transmembrane domain. The results also indicate that the mechanism of signal transduction, in which the final transmembrane segment apparently plays a key role, is conserved between members of the HPK10subfamily.