cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The mechanism of the effect of obesity in knee osteoarthritis: the mediating role of malalignment.

Objective Obesity is most strongly linked to osteoarthritis (OA) at the knee. Varus malalignment was examined as a possible local mediator that may increase the impact of body weight at the knee, versus the hip or ankle. Compartment load distribution is more equitable in valgus than in varus knees, and valgus knees may better tolerate obesity. We therefore tested whether 1) body mass index (BMI) is correlated with OA severity in varus knees, 2) the BMI–OA severity correlation is weaker in valgus than in varus knees, 3) BMI is correlated with the severity of varus malalignment, and 4) the BMI–medial tibiofemoral OA severity relationship is reduced after controlling for varus malalignment. Methods In 300 community-recruited patients with knee OA, 2 groups (varus and valgus) were identified based on dominant knee alignment on a full-limb radiograph, i.e., the angle formed by the intersection of the femoral and tibial mechanical axes. Severity of knee OA was assessed by measurement of the narrowest joint space width on radiographs of knees in a fluoroscopy-confirmed semiflexed position. Results Alignment direction was symmetric (or neutral in 1 limb) in 87% of patients. One hundred fifty-four patients had varus knees and 115 had valgus knees. BMI correlated with OA severity in the varus group (r = –0.29, P = 0.0009) but not in the valgus group (r = –0.13, P = 0.17). BMI correlated with malalignment in those with varus knees (r = 0.26) but not in those with valgus knees (r = 0.16). The partial correlation of BMI and OA severity, controlling for sex, was reduced from 0.24 (P = 0.002) to 0.04 (P = 0.42) when varus malalignment was added to the model. Conclusion BMI was related to OA severity in those with varus knees but not in those with valgus knees. Much of the effect of BMI on the severity of medial tibiofemoral OA was explained by varus malalignment, after controlling for sex. Whether it precedes or follows the onset of disease, varus malalignment is one local factor that may contribute to rendering the knee most vulnerable to the effects of obesity.
The order-disorder transformation in Ni3Al and Ni3AlFe alloys—I. Determination of the transition temperatures and their relation to ductility

Abstract A combination of dilatometry and high-temperature diffractometry was used to determine the order-disorder transition temperatures for a series of nickel-aluminum-iron alloys. Extrapolation to zero iron content gave an estimate of the transition temperature for a Ni77.5Al22.5 binary alloy: this was 1375°C, just 10°C below the solidus. Further dilatometric runs with several binary Ni-Al alloys, exploiting a new technique of dilatometric curve-fitting, permitted the transition temperature to be plotted as a function of Ni Al ratio. At ~23 at.% Al, the transition temperature crossed over the liquidus temperature; alloys containing less aluminum than this freeze in the disordered form and order on further cooling (sequential ordering); alloys containing more than ~23 at.% Al freeze directly into the ordered form and, unlike the former category, such directly ordered alloys contain no antiphase domains, or very few. Empirical evidence concerning ductility of binary and ternary alloys containing γ′ (Ni3Al) is reviewed, and some new experiments reported. The tentative conclusion is reached that sequential ordering favors polycrystalline ductility because of the role of antiphase domains in braking dislocations. In this way, the ductile-brittle transition between 24 and 25 at.% Al can be interpreted. The congruent (virtual ordering) temperature of stoichiometric Ni3Al is estimated to be 1450 ± 10°C, and from this value, the antiphase domain energy on a (111) plane is calculated to be 112 mJ/m2.
Wet-sand impulse loading of metallic plates and corrugated core sandwich panels

Abstract We have utilized a combination of experimental and modeling methods to investigate the mechanical response of edge-clamped sandwich panels subject to the impact of explosively driven wet sand. A porthole extrusion process followed by friction stir welding was utilized to fabricate 6061-T6 aluminum sandwich panels with corrugated cores. The panels were edge clamped and subjected to localized high intensity dynamic loading by the detonation of spherical explosive charges encased by a concentric shell of wet sand placed at different standoff distances. Monolithic plates of the same alloy and mass per unit area were also tested in an identical manner and found to suffer 15–20% larger permanent deflections. A decoupled wet sand loading model was developed and incorporated into a parallel finite-element simulation capability. The loading model was calibrated to one of the experiments. The model predictions for the remaining tests were found to be in close agreement with experimental observations for both sandwich panels and monolithic plates. The simulation tool was then utilized to explore sandwich panel designs with improved performance. It was found that the performance of the sandwich panel to wet sand blast loading can be varied by redistributing the mass among the core webs and the face sheets. Sandwich panel designs that suffer 30% smaller deflections than equivalent solid plates have been identified.
Growing Tomorrow's Teachers Through the Teacher Center

Texas is facing a critical need for adequately trained teachers both now and in the future. Because of the statewide need for teacher preparation, Eastfield College implemented the Teacher Center. ...
Organic pest management decisions: a systems approach to technology adoption

Organic farmers make system-level crop protection decisions that combine complementary insect, disease, nematode, and weed management strategies. Data from a 1997 national survey of U.S. organic farmers were used in a multivariate count data model to identify the farm and regional factors influencing the adoption of practices across the linked pest management categories. The results show that weed management requires the greatest management effort by organic farmers. More intensive information-seeking and on-farm experimentation, higher educational attainment, and intensity of commitment to organic farming are positively related to the number of weed control strategies adopted. Predictions of adoption based on this model and customized to farm and region specifications will give information providers lead time to develop technical support for reduced chemical pest management systems.
New Experimental Results on p ¯ p → K 0 K ¯ 0 from 700 to 1100 MeV/ c

Cross sections and angular data are presented for proton-antiproton annihilation into ${K}_{S}{K}_{L}$ and ${K}_{S}{K}_{S}$ at six laboratory momenta from 686 to 1098 MeV/c. Unlike results reported elsewhere, the rates for $C=\ensuremath{-}1$ and $C=+1$ states are found to be comparable within statistics. Also, evidence is presented that at least several waves contribute to the direct-channel amplitude with different isospin as well as angular momentum quantum numbers.
Electron observations and ion flows from the pioneer venus orbiter plasma analyzer experiment.

Additional plasma measurements in the vicinity of Venus are presented. It is shown that (1) there are three distinct plasma electron populations - solar wind electrons, ionosheath electrons, and nightside ionosphere electrons; (2) the plasma ion flow pattern in the ionosheath is consistent with deflected flow around a blunt obstacle; (3) the plasma ion flow velocities near the downstream wake may, at times, be consistent with the deflection of plasma into the tail, closing the solar wind cavity downstream from Venus at a relatively close distance (within 5 Venus radii) to the planet; (4) there is a separation between the inner boundary of the downstream ionosheath and the upper boundary of the nightside ionosphere; and (5) during the first 4.5 months in orbit the measured solar wind plasma speed continued to vary, showing a number of high-speed, but generally nonrecurrent, streams.
Wording blurs survey on animal protection.

A survey of Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) members described by Plous and Herzog in their letter (27 Oct., p. [711][1]) purports to show that this group of researchers favors the inclusion of rats, mice, and birds under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). The survey question the
A two-compartment model of systemic circulation: Influence of transmural pressure

To study the effect of changes in transmural pressure upon parameters of a two-compartment model of the systemic circulation, a right-heart bypass preparation in 7 dogs separated the venous return into splanchnic\((\dot Q_s )\) and non-splanchnic (termed peripheral,\((\dot Q_p )\)) flows. Flows from these two channels drained by gravity into an external reservoir. Reservoir blood was returned by a pump to the pulmonary artery. Venous resistances (Rvs and Rvp), arterial resistances (Ras and Rap), compliances (Cs and Cp) and upstream venous pressures (Ps and Pp) for the splanchnic and peripheral channels were calculated from the steady-state and transient volume shifts which occurred following rapid drops in venous pressure. These parameters were determined at cardiac outputs of 48, 64, 80, 96, and 112 ml·kg−1·min−1. Linear regressions were obtained for venous resistances and compliances against the upstream venous pressure for the associated channel and also for the arterial resistances, against mean arterial pressure (Pa). Over the range of upstream venous pressures and arterial pressure produced by the cardiac output variations, statistically significant dependencies were found for Rvs and Cs against Ps, Cp against Pp, and Ras against Pa The peripheral compartment resistances, Rvp and Rap, did not display significant dependencies on transmural pressure. A computer simulation of the effects of cardiac output variations induced by volume loading substantiates the conclusions that the observed curvature of pressure—flow relationships is due to increasing splanchnic venous resistance with upstream splanchnic pressure while the observed linearity of volume—flow relationships is due to the offsetting effects of increasing venous resistances and decreasing compliances with increasing upstream venous pressure.
A review of math-based CAE tools for rollover simulations

This article presents a review of math-based models simulating rollover events under various test conditions. The types of model reviewed include rigid-body- and deformable-body-(or finite-element-) based models. Rigid-body-based models consist of those developed using packages including ADAMS, HVE, CarSim, Truck-Sim, MADYMO, CAL3D and PC-Crash. Deformable-body-based models require the use of non-linear crash analysis codes, such as LS-DYNA, Pam-Crash or RADIOSS. Simulations of the SAE J2114 rollover test procedure using both types of model are demonstrated. Model limitations and issues are addressed in regards to model applicability to potential users/modellers. Potential areas of further improvements over these models are also presented.
Impact Fee Program for Fulton County, Georgia

Impact fees are being used by an increasing number of growing local governments across the United States. Impact fees shift the burden of paying for new public facilities away from the community at large and onto new development. Impact fees are not an infrastructure financing solution for all facilities or for all local governments. Here we assess the feasibility of applying impact fees in one large, growing urban county: Fulton County, Georgia. The review of impact fee concepts and standards, and the feasibility assessment process we undertook is instructive to all local governments seeking new sources of infrastructure financing. While impact fees appear a feasible supplemental revenue‐generating solution, more study is needed to allocate financing burdens properly using impact fee standards established by the courts.
Book Review: Social Media Go to War: Rage, Rebellion and Revolution in the Age of Twitter, edited by Ralph D. Berenger

Social Media Go to War: Rage, Rebellion and Revolution in the Age of Twitter. Ralph D. Berenger, ed. Spokane, WA: Marquette Books, 2013. 531 pp. $49.95 pbk.This third book in a trilogy from Marquette Books examines the uses and impact of social media in conflicts throughout the world, particularly in Northern Africa and the Middle East. The volume consists of twenty-eight essays from thirty-nine authors, and as with the first two books in the series (Global Media Go to War and Cybermedia Go to War), this volume draws on scholars with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Some of the con- tributors are graduate students; some are journalists. Many are scholars who live and work in the Middle East. Berenger, who also edited the other volumes in the series, is a professor of mass communication at the American University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, and author of numerous studies on media behavior in times of crisis.Five essays in Part 1 consider the theoretical constructs and ideologies that help explain the impact social media had on world uprisings from 2008 until 2013. An essay by the late John C. Merrill leads off the section with a look at ideological forces driving political upheavals. Steven Dick and Katharine R. Allen contribute essays that consider how existing mass communication theories might be applied to social media. Sohail Dahdal explores how Al Jazeera, a popular television series, and social media contributed to the rise of Arab Nationalism. Lt. Col. Jennifer A. Berenger concludes the section with a look at U.S. Department of Defense policies concerning soldiers' use of social media.Part 2 presents case studies of social media use prior to the Arab Spring. This sec- tion includes Byron T. Scott and Ellada Gamreklidze's report on how social media was used during Georgia's war with Russia in 2008; Basma Botros and Melanie Mills' look at the contribution of Facebook to an Egyptian youth movement in 2008; Martin A. Parlett's report of how Barack Obama used social media during the 2008 election; Katherine R. Allen's report on a Cuban blogger; and Catherine Cassara's essay on Tunisian citizen journalists. The section also includes essays by Melissa Wall and Treepon Kirdnak who look at the use of YouTube videos in Thailand; Tim Macafee and J. J. De Simone, who studied social media use during the recall election of Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker; and Margaret D'Silva, Siobhan Smith, and Girish Nikam, who discuss how social media helped free an Indian civil rights activist.Part 3 focuses on Iran's presidential election protests in 2009. The five essays in this section include a historical overview by Irfan Raja, a report from Cora Werwitzke and Jurgen Wilke on social media use during the mass demonstrations of June 2009, Emily A. …
Metabolism of N-methylcarbazole by rat lung microsomes.

N-Methylcarbazole (NMC) is a procarcinogenic component of tobacco smoke particulate matter. It is metabolized by liver microsomes into some hydroxylated metabolites such as the potent mutagen N-hydroxymethylcarbazole (NHMC). Lung metabolism and toxicity of NMC is not known. Since the lung is the primary organ of inhalation of tobacco smoke, NMC metabolism by lung microsomes was studied in comparison with the metabolism by liver microsomes. Liver or lung microsomes (1 mg/mL) were incubated with 0.5 mM NMC for 30 min at 37°C. NMC metabolites were extracted with ethyl acetate and analyzed by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Rat lung microsomes metabolized NMC with a similar profile to liver microsomes, although lung microsomes produced greater number of metabolites. The potent mutagen NHMC was also the major NMC metabolite produced by lung microsomes, as confirmed by particle beam mass spectrometry. However, lung microsomes produced only 10% of NHMC produced by liver microsomes. Metabol...
Small Group Multitasking In Literature Classes

Faced with the challenge of teaching American literature to large, multilevel classes in Vietnam, the writer developed a flexible small group framework called ‘multitasking’. ‘Multitasking’ sets up stable task categories which rotate among small groups from lesson to lesson. This framework enabled students to work cooperatively in a variety of formats and the teacher to generate a wide range of materials and activities efficiently. It also spurred students to develop more independent learning skills and the teacher to experiment more freely with new techniques. In a narrative and reflective format, in terms both of what he expected and what he experienced, the writer presents the structure, goals, problems, and benefits of this approach.
Molecular cloning and expression of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae RFC3 gene, an essential component of replication factor C.

Abstract Yeast replication factor C (RF-C) is a multi-polypeptide complex required for processive DNA replication by DNA polymerases delta and epsilon. The gene encoding the 40-kDa subunit of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae RF-C (RFC3) has been cloned. The RFC3 gene is required for yeast cell growth and has been mapped to the left arm of chromosome XIV. The deduced amino acid sequence of the RFC3 gene shows a high homology to the 36-, 37-, and 40-kDa subunits of human RF-C (also called activator 1), with the highest homology to the 36-kDa subunit. Among the conserved regions are the A motif of ATP binding proteins; the "DEAD box," common to DNA helicases and other ATPases; and the "RFC box," an approximately 15-amino acid domain virtually identical in the yeast and human RF-C subunits. Limited homology to the functional homologs of the Escherichia coli replication apparatus was also observed. The steady-state mRNA levels of RFC3 do not change significantly during the mitotic cell cycle of yeast. The intact form of the RFC3 gene product (Rfc3p) has been overproduced in E. coli and purified to homogeneity. Purified Rfc3p has an ATPase activity that is markedly stimulated by single-stranded DNA but not by double-stranded DNA or RNA.
Effect of Inhibitors of S-Adenosylmethionine Decarboxylase on Polyamine Content and Growth of L1210 Cells

Analogues of S-adenosylmethionine that were designed as inhibitors of S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase were tested for their abilities to inhibit the purified enzyme from rat prostate. The most potent inhibitors were 5'-deoxy-5'-[N-methyl-N-[2-(aminooxy)ethyl]amino]adenosine (MAOEA) and 5'-deoxy-5'-[N-methyl-N-(3-hydrazinopropyl)amino]adenosine (MHZPA), which had I50 values of 400 nM and 70 nM, respectively, when added directly to the assay medium under standard conditions. These compounds were irreversible inactivators of the enzyme, and more than 95% of the activity was lost within 15 min of exposure to 5 microM MAOEA or 0.5 microM MHZPA. Both inhibitors led to a large reduction in the content of decarboxylated S-adenosylmethionine in L1210 cells and to a substantial decrease in the production of 5'-(methylthio)adenosine by these cells. These results are consistent with their bringing about an inhibition of S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase activity in the cell which leads to a reduction in the synthesis of spermidine and spermine. Analysis of the polyamine content in L1210 cells exposed to 100 microM MAOEA or 50 microM MHZPA showed that this was the case and that putrescine levels were greatly increased while spermidine and spermine content declined. The combined application of 100 microM MAOEA and 5 mM alpha-(difluoromethyl)ornithine (an ornithine decarboxylase inhibitor) to L1210 cells completely prevented the synthesis of putrescine, spermidine, and spermine for up to 48 h. The reduction in polyamine content brought about by MHZPA or MAOEA could be partially prevented by the addition of decarboxylated S-adenosylmethionine to the culture medium. These inhibitors also brought about an inhibition of cell growth which could be reversed by the addition of spermidine.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Nonselective inhibition of messenger RNA translation by highly purified low molecular weight RNA species from ribosomal salt wash of chick embryonic muscle.

A low molecular weight RNA species, in the 70–90 nucleotide size range (iRNA), has been purified from the ribosomal salt wash of chick embryonic muscle by a combination of DEAE-cellulose and hydroxyapatite chromatography. This method yields iRNA free from contaminating tRNA and gives better and more reproducible yields than those obtained with our previous method involving lengthy dialysis of the salt wash. The iRNA at a concentration of 20–80 ng range strongly inhibits the translation of homologous and heterologous mRNAs i.e. chick muscle poly(A)+mRNA and rabbit globin mRNA; uncapped mRNA; and poly(A)-mRNA in micrococcal nuclease-treated reticulocyte lysate indicating that inhibition by iRNA is nonselective in nature. The translation of endogenous globin mRNA and polysomes in the lysate is strikingly less sensitive to iRNA suggesting that the initiation step is primarily affected by iRNA. The iRNA does not appear to be double-stranded RNA. It is concluded that iRNA is distinct from other low molecular weight RNA species described in the literature which modulate protein synthesis in cell-free systems.
A model wheat cultivar for transformation to improve resistance to Fusarium Head Blight

Fusarium head blight (FHB), caused primarily by Fusarium graminearum, is a major disease problem in wheat (Triticum aestivum). Genetic engineering holds significant potential to enhance FHB resistance in wheat. Due to the requirement of screening for FHB resistance on flowers at anthesis, the number of screens carried out in a year is limited. Our objective was to evaluate the feasibility of using the rapid-maturing dwarf wheat cultivar Apogee as an alternative genotype for transgenic FHB resistance research. Our transformation efficiency (number of transgenic plants/number of embryos) for Apogee was 1.33%. Apogee was also found to exhibit high FHB susceptibility and reached anthesis within 4 weeks. Interestingly, microsatellite marker haplotype analysis of the chromosome 3BS FHB resistant quantitative trait locus (QTL) region indicated that this region maybe deleted in Apogee. Our results indicate that Apogee is particularly well suited for accelerating transgenic FHB resistance research and transgenic wheat research in general.
The Role of the Advertising Agency in the Cultural Message Content of Advertisements: A Comparison of the Middle East and the United States

ABSTRACT This study compared responses of advertising agencies located in the Middle East and the United States to an email survey examining their approach in designing advertisements. The survey examined whether the advertising agency incorporated area-specific cultural values and advertising appeals in the execution of their advertisements. Results indicate that indeed advertising agencies do use, or at least report to use, different cultural values and advertising appeals. Advertising agencies in the Middle East tend to focus more on filial obedience, customs and traditions, loyalty to one's group, honor, and patience. In addition, agencies in the Middle East reported that they tended to portray women in a more modest fashion than their counterparts in the United States.
Growth, shrinkage, and stability of interfacial oxide layers between directly bonded silicon wafers

Models for the growth and shrinkage of an interfacial oxide layer and for the stability of the interfacial oxide layer are formulated. Predictions of these models are compared to results obtained by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Wafers containing different concentrations of oxygen interstitials are bonded. Depending on the starting concentration of oxygen interstitials in the wafers, the interfacial oxide layer grows or shrinks during long-time annealing at high temperatures. For much shorter annealing times, local disintegration of the oxide layer may occur, which is less severely influenced by the concentration of oxygen interstitials. Rather, it depends on the thickness of the interfacial oxide layer. The influence of rotational misorientation is examined by rotating wafers around their common axes perpendicular to a wafer plane and subsequent bonding. Above a critical angle of about 1–3°, a continuous oxide layer is formed, whereas below this critical angle, sufficiently thin oxide layers disintegrate.
The Trial of Cn. Piso in Tacitus' Annals and the Senatus consultum de Cn. Pisone patre : New Light on Narrative Technique

Dans le cadre du seminaire sur le «Senatus consultum de Cn. Pisone Patre» organise par l'APA et l'AIA a Chicago le 28 decembre 1997, l'A. etudie la technique narrative utilisee par Tacite dans les «Annales», livres 2 et 3, afin de rapporter la mort de Germanicus et le proces de Pison consignes par le decret public. Examinant la structure des histoires en miroir chez Tacite et son ordonnancement des evenements a partir du «Senatus Consultum», l'A. montre que Tacite s'attache d'abord a reveler les faits tels qu'ils se sont deroules, puis a expliquer comment la verite a ete obscurcie par le brouillard de la rumeur et de la suspicion dans un monde gouverne par l'obsequiosite et la dissimilation
A new species of Raveniopsis (Rutaceae), a genus new to Brazil

Raveniopsis aracaensis is described from Serra Araca, Brazil and is the first record of the genus from Brazil.
The Role of Transformational and Transactional Leadership in Creating, Sharing and Exploiting Organizational Knowledge:

Strategy scholars have argued that managing knowledge effectively can provide firms with sustainable competitive advantages. Leaders are central to the process of managing knowledge effectively. Managing knowledge includes three key processes: creating, sharing, and exploiting knowledge. Leaders are central to each of these processes at multiple levels of the firm. Examining the role of leadership in converting knowledge into competitive advantages is important to our understanding of leaders and organizations. Transformational leadership may be more effective at creating and sharing knowledge at the individual and group levels, while transactional leadership is more effective at exploiting knowledge at the organizational level. This paper begins to integrate the transformational leadership literature with the organizational knowledge literature.
Predicting process lethality of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes in ground, formulated, and formed beef/turkey links cooked in an air impingement oven

Abstract The pathogen thermal lethality in ground and formulated beef/turkey was evaluated for a cocktail of E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes, respectively. At a temperature range of 55–70°C, the heat resistance of L. monocytogenes was not significantly (at α=0.05) different from those of Salmonella. The heat resistance of L. monocytogenes at 55–70°C was 45–81% higher than that of E. coli O157:H7. In this study, a practical approach was developed to predict log10(CFU/g) reduction of E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella, or L. monocytogenes in ground, formulated, and formed beef/turkey links that were cooked in an air impingement oven. The predictions of pathogen thermal kills in the links were verified via the inoculation studies for at least a 7 log10(CFU/g) reduction of E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella, and L. monocytogenes.
Parades and processions: Protestant and catholic ritual performances in a Nuevo new south town

Since the early 1990s, the American South has changed drastically and Siler City, North Carolina reflects those changes. Like larger southern cities, Siler City has received a significant number of migrants from Latin America in a short amount of time. New migrants, many but not all of them Roman Catholic, bring diverse sets of ethnic, cultural, and religious practices to a town traditionally dominated by Baptists and Methodists. One of the most visible examples of local religious disruption in Siler City has been the public display of Good Friday processions by Latino Catholics. That performance signified the presence of new migrants in downtown space. White Protestants, in turn, drew on the long standing ritual tradition of downtown Fourth of July parades to reassert their presence in that same space. Annually performed since 1901, the parades revealed a moral order based on the logic of southern Christian sacrifice. And the vitality of downtown parades indicated the political strength of white Protestants to maintain established order. That strength diminished with the local economic decline of downtown businesses in the 1980s and was challenged by the arrival of Latino migrants in the 1990s. The parades ended in 1988 but were renewed in 1997, the year following the first Good Friday procession in city streets. In the revitalized parade, white Protestants expressed nostalgia for a southern way of life and publicly remembered a time and place — downtown Siler City — before economic decline and Latino arrival.
Molecular cloning and expression of human parainfluenza virus type 1 L gene

The large (L) protein, a subunit of paramyxovirus RNA polymerase complex is responsible for the majority of enzymic activities involved in viral replication and transcription. To gain insight of the functions of the L protein, we cloned the L gene of human parainfluenza virus type 1 (hPIV1) and sequenced the entire gene. The L gene, which was 6800 nucleotides, encoded a protein of 2223 residues with a calculated molecular weight of 253657. The predicted amino acid sequence was highly homologous with that of Sendai virus (SV) L (86% identity). The hPIV1 L protein expressed from the cloned L gene bound hPIV1 P expressed in the same cells. When cells were transfected with hPIV1 L, P and NP genes together with SV minigenome RNA containing a chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene (Send-CAT), RNA was transcribed, and CAT proteins were detected. These results indicate that the protein encoded by the cloned hPIV1 L gene was biologically functional and that the hPIV1 polymerase complex recognized SV transcription initiation and termination sequences to produce viral transcripts.
Formal Patient Education Improves Patient Knowledge of Hepatitis C in Vulnerable Populations

Background Hepatitis C (HCV) knowledge is limited in injection drug users (IDU). Vulnerable populations including IDUs are disproportionally affected by HCV. Effective HCV education can potentially reduce disparity in HCV prevalence and its outcome in this population.
Inhibition of the nuclear localization of [3H] estradiol in rat uterine tissue in vitro

The temperature coefficient (Q10) for the nuclear-cytoplasmic intracellular distribution of specifically-bound [3H]estradiol is approximately 1.0 over the interval 10-30 degrees C. However, this value increases to 3.19 for the temperature influence upon the nuclear-cytoplasmic localization of hormone between 30 degrees and 37 degrees C. A Q10 value of this magnitude is indicative of a biological, rather than physical, translocation event. In assessment of a biological basis for translocation, several antimicrotubular/antimicrofilamentous agents were used alone and in combination to ascertain their effects upon in vitro nuclear localization of labeled estradiol in the uterus. The incubation of uterine tissue in D2O-Locke-Ringer's solution containing 10(-4) M colchicine or vinblastine significantly reduced the nuclear localization of [3H]estradiol to nonspecific retention. Tissue uptake of the hormone, cytoplasmic binding and retention of estrogen, and the nucleophilic property of the receptor-estrogen complex (REC) were unaffected. Other drug treatments were without effect upon nuclear occupancy of the REC. The apparent inhibition of translocation by the above regimen could be due to an alteration in cellular architecture incompatible with hormone movement or the result of a direct effect upon cellular components which impede the dynamic interactions of REC in nuclei of whole tissue. Although these results do not necessarily imply that a functional cytoskeleton is required for translocation, we suggest that the estrogen-mediated nuclear occupancy of REC is a biological process susceptible to disruption.
Why do speech-enhancement algorithms not improve speech intelligibility?

While most speech enhancement algorithms improve speech quality, they do not improve speech intelligibility in noise. The reasons for that remain unclear. In this paper, we present a theoretical framework that can be used to analyze potential factors influencing the intelligibility of processed speech. It is hypothesized that if distortions are properly controlled, then large gains in intelligibility can be achieved. To assess the perceptual effect of the various distortions that can be introduced by speech enhancement algorithms, intelligibility tests are conducted with human listeners. The results indicated that certain distortions are more critical than others. The result of listening tests suggested that when these distortions are properly controlled, substantial gains in intelligibility can be obtained.
Evaluation of the theory and experimental consequences of gradient liquid chromatographic polymer separations

Abstract The separation of synthetic polymers of different molecular weight by non-aqueous, gradient liquid chromatography does not follow traditional chromatographic mechanisms. As a result one can produce separations where late eluting solutes have narrower bandwidths than early eluting solutes, where shorter columns result in higher resolution than identical longer columns, and where the selectivity and resolution are independent of the type of stationary phase used. These results are explained for polystyrene, poly-α-methylstyrene and polyisoprene using recently developed theory. The results of this work are not only pertinent to the practice and theory of chromatography but also to the study of polymers.
Riparian woody plant traits across an urban-rural land use gradient and implications for watershed function with urbanization.

Abstract Worldwide riparian forests are increasingly threatened by urbanization and land use change. Plant trait-based analyses provide a useful approach for comparing and describing distinct plant communities and may offer a more general understanding of the influences and consequences of disturbance associated with land use on riparian vegetation. This research addressed two primary questions focusing on nine plant traits that may significantly influence ecological processes or function. Are riparian woody plant traits related to the surrounding watershed matrix? Are trends in plant traits that are related to the watershed matrix also evident in the riparian woody plant regeneration layer? Using a rapidly urbanizing region of the southeastern United States near Columbus, GA as an example, data on woody plant species composition were collected from 17 forested watersheds along headwater streams representing an urban-to-rural land use gradient. Land cover and hydrologic indices were used to characterize the watershed landscape matrix at each site. Plant species were described by morphological, physiological, and reproductive trait groups. A site × trait matrix was obtained and detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) ordinations were used to identify trends in plant traits. Correlative analyses were used to relate watershed matrix indices to plant traits. Analyses indicated that riparian woody plant traits were related to the surrounding watershed matrix, most notably flood intolerance showed increased importance in urban areas possibly signifying a shift in hydrologic function. Changes in riparian woody plant traits are related to the watershed matrix and may have significant implications for ecological function and structure as urbanization continues.
Early results of transurethral vaporisation of prostate in Nigeria

Objective: to determine the effectiveness of transurethral electrovaporisation of prostate for the relief of obstructive prostatic disease in Nigeria. Methods: Consecutive patients presenting with obstructive prostatic disease with prostate size of less than 40gm were treated by transurethral electrovaporisation of prostate using a 5mm rollerball electrode. Results: A total of 27 patients were entered into the study, 7(26%) had clinically malignant prostates; 2 patients (7%) had immediate post operative retention requiring resection of residual prostate. No patients exhibited the clinical features of TUR syndrome, all patients were discharged by the 4th post operative day and required no blood trnsfusions. Conclusions: Transurethral electrovaporisation is effective for treatment of obstructive prostatic disease, benign or malignant. using the 5mm rollerball instead of the recommended vaportrode still confers benefit over TURP. TEVP confers all the benefits of TURP with less mobidity. Key words: Transurethral, Vaporisation, Prostate, Nigeria. Resume Objectif: Determiner l'efficacite du “Transuurethral” par electro-evaporisation de la prostate pour soulager le mai de l'epidemie de la prostate obstructive au Nigeria. Methode: Des patients se presentants successivement avec l'eoidemic de la prostate obstructive dont la taille de la prostate mesurait un peu moins de 40mg ont ete traites par “Transuretthral” electrovaporisation de la proste en utilisant une “rollerball” electrode de 5mm. Resultats: L‘etude a ete experiments sur un total de 27 patients, dont 7 (soit 27%) presentaient des prostates cliniquement malignes, 2 patients (soit 7%) ont eu retention post-operative necessitant re-operation de la prostate residuelle. Aucun patients n'exhibaient anomalies cliniques du “syndrom de TUR”. Tous les patients ont ete decharges (relaches) au 4eme jour post-operatoire et ne necessitaient pas de trannfusion sanguine. Conclusions: Le “Transurethral” par electro-evaporisation est effective pour traiter l'epidemie de la prostate obstructive que se soit benine ou maligne. En faisant usage du “rollerball” electrode wen lieu du “vaportrode” recommende tout en conferant le benefice du “TURP” “TEVP” confere tous les benefices du “TURP” avec moins d'effets morbides. West African Journal of Medicine Vol.23(2) 2004: 139-141
Price Volatility of Idaho Fresh Potatoes: 1987–2007

This paper presents an empirical analysis of the effectiveness of policies and programs of the United Fresh Potato Growers of Idaho directed toward more careful management of fresh potato supplies. Using autoregressive-conditional-heteroscedasticity models, we analyze Idaho fresh potato prices before the cooperative was formed and during the period when the cooperative is operating. This allows us to measure the cooperative’s influence on the market for Idaho fresh potatoes. We find statistically significant evidence suggesting that fresh potato price volatility is lower during the period when the cooperative is in the market as compared to the pre-cooperative period. The mean price level for fresh potatoes is slightly higher during the cooperative period relative to the pre-cooperative period; however this difference is not statistically significant.
Investigation on asphalt binder strength at low temperatures

A new strength test method for asphalt binders at low temperatures is investigated in this paper. A modified Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR), capable of applying loads at different rates, is used to obtain asphalt binder flexural strength. Strength values obtained from the BBR test are compared with strength values obtained from the Direct Tension Tester (DTT) test and significant differences are found between the two tests. Additional BBR strength tests are run on asphalt binder beams after replacing the ethanol used in the cooling bath with potassium acetate, similar to DTT testing conditions, and flexural strengths significantly larger than those obtained with ethanol are obtained. Weakest link theory is used to convert three-point bending strength to direct tension strength and to perform volume correction of DTT values. Based on the corrected values, the BBR and DTT strength measurements are similar, when the same cooling medium is used. The effect of the cooling medium on BBR creep stiffness is also ev...
Perceptions of the acceptability of parent training among Chinese immigrant parents: contributions of cultural factors and clinical need.

Abstract Parent training (PT) is well established for reducing child externalizing problems; however, lower rates of engagement in PT among ethnic minority/immigrant families have been found. We assessed PT acceptability among Chinese immigrant parents and explored clinical and cultural factors that may be associated with acceptability. Participants were a community sample of 145 Chinese immigrant parents (84% mothers) between the ages of 32 and 65 years ( M = 43.3 years, SD = 6.2) who had children (84 boys, 59 girls) between the ages of 4 and 17 years ( M = 10.7 years, SD = 3.6). Results suggest that parents found positive reinforcement techniques significantly more acceptable, less problematic, and more likely to be supported by others than punishment-based techniques. Parents who endorsed the Chinese child-rearing value of shaming were less likely to find PT acceptable. Parents who reported greater dysfunction in parent–child interactions rated PT as more acceptable, and families with prior Child Protective Services (CPS) involvement rated PT as less acceptable. However, previous mental health treatment appears to bolster acceptability among parents with prior CPS involvement. Clinical implications for addressing barriers to PT engagement and future research directions are discussed.
Merchants and Empire: Trading in Colonial New York

In Merchants and Empire, Cathy Matson examines the economic ideas and behavior of New York City's commercial wholesalers, especially the middling merchants who, as a majority of active traders, affected the character of city commerce over its colonial years. Although less prominent in transatlantic dry goods commerce than the great traders, this middling majority spread dissenting economic ideas and flouted political authority time and again when the benefits to their interests were clear. Indeed, middling or lesser merchants fashioned a plausible alternative to mercantilism, and contributed significantly to the challenges Americans offered to British rule in the final colonial years.
The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act: conflict and controversy

Pending land claims by Alaska Natives were extinguished by the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. This act marked the culmination of more than 100 years of expressed Federal concern for protection of land rights of aboriginal peoples within the region, starting with the 1867 Treaty of Cession. The Federal legislation provided both a cash and a land settlement, and mandated creation of corporations to manage the resulting assets. Two amendments, in 1976 and 1980, attempted to alleviate certain problems arising from the original act. Nonetheless, many difficulties with the act itself are becoming more apparent as the 1990s approach, and certain sections of the act such as taxation and stock alienation become activated. This paper discusses the major events leading to passage of the act, key provisions of the act, and the major controversies and conflicts facing Alaska Natives through the next two decades as a result of the legislation.
The State as Strategist in International Business Research

No matter what strategy managers choose, cross-national differences in states' strategic capabilities and objectives affect multinational corporations' capabilities to manage interdependent operations. In this paper, we develop four attribute dimensions along which states' strategic economic capabilities vary. We then apply these dimensions to show how they contribute to familiar international business models of managerial process, MNC strategy and organizational structure, and country competitiveness.
Wireless energy transmission to supplement energy harvesters in sensor network applications

In this paper we present a method for coupling wireless energy transmission with traditional energy harvesting techniques in order to power sensor nodes for structural health monitoring applications. The goal of this study is to develop a system that can be permanently embedded within civil structures without the need for on-board power sources. Wireless energy transmission is included to supplement energy harvesting techniques that rely on ambient or environmental, energy sources. This approach combines several transducer types that harvest ambient energy with wireless transmission sources, providing a robust solution that does not rely on a single energy source. Experimental results from laboratory and field experiments are presented to address duty cycle limitations of conventional energy harvesting techniques, and the advantages gained by incorporating a wireless energy transmission subsystem. Methods of increasing the efficiency, energy storage medium, target applications and the integrated use of energy harvesting sources with wireless energy transmission will be discussed.
Tracer gas technique: A new approach for steady state infiltration rate measurement of open refrigerated display cases

A new approach, combining experimental and analytical methods, for finding the infiltration rate of outside warm air into open refrigerated display cases is introduced. This method is based on direct measurements and is more reliable and accurate than conventional techniques. Although a typical display case usually benefits from an air curtain at its opening to reduce the infiltration of the warm ambient air into the system, still the infiltration accounts for up to 75% of the total cooling load of their refrigeration system. In 1999, for example, about 69,000 of such display cases were operating in the supermarkets and grocery stores of the USA with annual energy consumption more than 1000 GW-hr (California Energy Commission (CEC) and Southern California Edison (SCE) Co., (2003). Private Communications.). Therefore, determining the exact amount of their infiltration rate and improving their performance are of great importance. In this method, a tracer gas is released into the air inside the duct of a display case and after mixing, the mixture discharges into the display area and ambient through the air curtain and/or the perforated back panel of the display case. This technique is based upon the concentration measurements of the tracer gas at three locations: Discharge duct, return duct and the ambient. Finding the percentage of the tracer gas that is lost (by escaping into the ambient) between the Discharge and the return ducts forms the fundamental of this approach. By analyzing the mass conservation around the air curtain of the display case, a relationship between the tracer gas concentration and the infiltration rate can be established.
Electronic properties of semimetallic quasicrystals

Abstract Experimental results on transport and electronic properties of selected quasicrystal systems based on good metals are presented. The effects of icosahedral symmetry and disorder on properties are examined. Semimetallic and anomalous transport behaviors as well as their strong variation with alloy composition in the highly ordered icosahedral crystals and their crystal-analog phases are reported. Comparisons are made with theories. The effects of structural order on electronic properties and the propensity toward a metal-insulator transition in ordered quasicrystals are ascribed to symmetry induced band-structure effects, despite the short electronic mean free path.