cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the CaMKIIα and β splice-variant distribution among brain regions reveals isoform-specific differences in holoenzyme formation

Four CaMKII isoforms are encoded by distinct genes, and alternative splicing within the variable linker-region generates additional diversity. The α and β isoforms are largely brain-specific, where they mediate synaptic functions underlying learning, memory and cognition. Here, we determined the α and β splice-variant distribution among different mouse brain regions. Surprisingly, the nuclear variant αB was detected in all regions, and even dominated in hypothalamus and brain stem. For CaMKIIβ, the full-length variant dominated in most regions (with higher amounts of minor variants again seen in hypothalamus and brain stem). The mammalian but not fish CaMKIIβ gene lacks exon v3N that encodes the nuclear localization signal in αB, but contains three exons not found in the CaMKIIα gene (exons v1, v4, v5). While skipping of exons v1 and/or v5 generated the minor splice-variants β', βe and βe', essentially all transcripts contained exon v4. However, we instead detected another minor splice-variant (now termed βH), which lacks part of the hub domain that mediates formation of CaMKII holoenzymes. Surprisingly, in an optogenetic cellular assay of protein interactions, CaMKIIβH was impaired for binding to the β hub domain, but still bound CaMKIIα. This provides the first indication for isoform-specific differences in holoenzyme formation.
SiC for Brain–Machine Interface (BMI)

The central nervous system (CNS) does not readily regenerate damage from trauma or disease, but instead a glial scar seals off the damaged area from the rest of the brain. The glial scaring process leaves many people with reduced or even complete loss of motor, sensory, or learning functionality. It has long been established that we can interact with neurons and muscles using electrical signals. This chapter is dedicated to the brain–machine interface (BMI), and how SiC has been used in BMI devices to reconnect failed signal paths in the CNS and PNS (peripheral nervous system).
Anderson on Advocacy

This text on trial advocacy offers guidance on several difficult and overlooked areas of trial practice, such as witness preparation, motions in limine, dealing with expert witnesses, offers of proof, introducing exhibits, making and preserving the record, and refreshing recollection. Anderson illustrates her points with examples from actual trial transcripts showing the work of successful trial lawyers, including Michael Tigar, David Berg, and John Edwards.
Strontium-89 for treatment of painful bone metastasis from prostate cancer.

Purpose/objective To review the current use of strontium-89 (89Sr) to treat pain related to bony metastasis secondary to prostate cancer. Data sources Published articles. Data synthesis Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. The disease's most common site of metastasis is the bones. Bone metastasis leads to unrelenting pain. If healthcare providers are able to manage a patient's pain successfully, the patient's quality of life improves. Conclusion When conventional therapies fail, 89Sr can be used as an alternative or an adjunct to pain management of bony metastasis in prostate cancer. Implications for nursing practice Nursing intervention primarily involves assessing pain, monitoring analgesics until 89Sr can begin to take effect, educating patients on using other medications with 89Sr, and assessing fatigue resulting from 89Sr-induced myelosuppression. As pain decreases, nurses also should monitor patients' activity levels, since they are at risk for pathologic fractures.
New Economic Geography Explanations of Urban and Regional Agglomeration

Abstract The purpose of this chapter is to examine the ‘new economic geography’ (NEG) in terms of how well it explains urban and regional agglomeration. The chapter reviews Krugman's core–periphery model of regional agglomeration with an eye toward what motivates the analysis and how the model accomplishes its ends. It then proceeds to an examination of how several other types of agglomeration, both urban and regional, can be modeled by modifying key assumptions. The chapter concludes with an assessment of what the NEG has accomplished and where its challenges lie, particularly in regard to empirical application.
Finite Frames and Filter Banks

Filter banks are fundamental tools of signal and image processing. A filter is a linear operator which computes the inner products of an input signal with all translates of a fixed function. In a filter bank, several filters are applied to the input, and each of the resulting signals is then downsampled. Such operators are closely related to frames, which consist of equally spaced translates of a fixed set of functions. In this chapter, we highlight the rich connections between frame theory and filter banks. We begin with the algebraic properties of related operations, such as translation, convolution, downsampling, the discrete Fourier transform, and the discrete Z-transform. We then discuss how basic frame concepts, such as frame analysis and synthesis operators, carry over to the filter bank setting. The basic theory culminates with the representation of a filter bank’s synthesis operator in terms of its polyphase matrix. This polyphase representation greatly simplifies the process of constructing a filter bank frame with a given set of properties. Indeed, we use this representation to better understand the special case in which the filters are modulations of each other, namely Gabor frames.
Importance and method of using reference materials in measuring reliability of analytical results and why customers should use them

Reference materials have always been important for validating and controlling analytical methods. They have recently become even more important as quality requirements have become more stringent and customer demands for properly verified and controlled results increase. Clients, especially from the resource exploration industry, demand critical validation of all results reported. Mintek has been producing geological and semi-processed ore references since the early 1970s and recently, due to increase in demand, other manufactures have entered the South African market. This paper descriptionbes analytical challenges from the customersi?½ perspective, the customers being metallurgists, mine geologists, environmental scientists and geologists from resource companies. Reference materials with their appropriate use and a good understanding, can aid greatly in building confidence in the results, choosing the right laboratory for a project, deciding which set of results is correct and providing evidence to the customersi?½ clients that the best possible results have been obtained.
Integrating Objective and Subjective Methods in Guidance Program Evaluation.

Few evaluations of guidance programs appear in the literature. This may be because of lack of concern for teaching evaluation methods in counselor education programs. This article illustrates how s...
Gettering of Residual Gas and the Adsorption of Hydrogen on Evaporated Molybdenum Films at Liquid-Nitrogen Temperatures

It has been established that evaporated molybdenum films at room temperature are effective adsorbers of hydrogen and most residual gases in ultrahigh-vacuum systems [1]. Preliminary experiments indicated additional adsorption was possible if the molybdenum was evaporated onto a liquid-nitrogen-cooled surface[2]. The objectives of the present experiments were: (1) to ascertain the magnitude of the pressure reduction due to adsorption in a baked vacuum system as compared with an unbaked system; (2) to identify the gaseous components adsorbed; and (3) to measure the pumping speed of hydrogen on molybdenum films at room and liquid-nitrogen temperatures.
A Complete Circuit Model for the Key Distribution System Using Resistors and Noise Sources

A complete circuit model is developed for modeling the classical key distribution system based on resistors and band-limited noise sources. Theoretical analysis provides component values, including...
Reliability of Self-Reported Gleason Scores in Studies of Sexual Minority Prostate Cancer Survivors

AbstractIntroduction:In 2 studies prostate cancer survivors who were gay, bisexual or other men who had sex with men reported lower Gleason scores than heterosexual prostate cancer survivors. These...
Large posttraumatic stress disorder improvement and antidepressant medication adherence

Abstract Background Patients with vs. without posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are more likely to have poor antidepressant medication (ADM) adherence but it is unclear if improved PTSD is associated with ADM adherence. We determined if clinically meaningful PTSD symptom reduction was associated with ADM adherence. Methods Electronic health record data (2008–2015) was obtained from 742 Veterans Health Affairs (VHA) patients using PTSD specialty clinics with a PTSD diagnosis and PTSD checklist (PCL) score ≥50. The last PCL in the exposure year after the first PCL≥50 was used to identify patients with a clinically meaningful PCL decrease (≥20 point) versus those without ( Results Patients were 42.2 ± 13.1 years of age, 63.9% white and 18.9% had a clinically meaningful PCL decrease. After controlling for confounding variables, patients with vs. without a clinically meaningful PCL decrease were significantly more likely to be adherent (OR = 1.78; 95% CI:1.16–2.73). However, adherence remained low in both patients with and without meaningful PCL decrease (53.5% vs. 39.3%). Limitations The sample was limited to VHA patients. Patients may not have taken medication as prescribed. Conclusions Large reductions in PTSD symptoms are associated with ADM adherence. Prior literature suggests ADM adherence improves depression symptoms. Thus, PTSD symptom reduction may lead to better depression outcomes.
Negative Affect, SCUM, and the Politics of Possibility:

Negativity has been widely framed through Edelman’s “no future” orientation. While being productive, this orientation forecloses the potential negativity to foster coalitional alliances. Building o...
Isolation and Structural Characterization of Specific Bacterial β-Glucuronidase Inhibitors from Noni (Morinda citrifolia) Fruits

An extract of noni (Morinda citrifolia) fruits has shown potent inhibitory activity on gut bacterial β-glucuronidase, which could help reduce irinotecan-induced diarrhea. In this study, four bacterial β-glucuronidase inhibitors were obtained following bioactive assay-guided isolation, including two sesquineolignans, (7S,8S,7′R,8′R)-isoamericanol B (1) and americanol B (2), and two dineolignans, moricitrins A (3) and B (4). Compounds 2–4 are new, and the absolute configuration of compound 1 was determined for the first time. Their chemical structures were elucidated through HRESIMS and NMR spectra, and their absolute configurations were established via the comparison of the experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism spectra. These compounds showed potent inhibition against gut bacterial β-glucuronidase with IC50 values in the range 0.62–6.91 μM. The inhibition presented specificity for β-glucuronidase, as all the compounds showed no or weak effects on digestive enzymes such as α-amylase, α-g...
Fault Location for Distribution Systems with Distributed Generations without Using Source Impedances

Fault location reveals the exact information needed for utility crews to timely and promptly perform maintenance and system restoration. This paper proposes a new impedance-based fault location algorithm using sparse voltage measurements to identify the location of a fault. Depending on the availability of source currents at substations and distributed generations (DG), the algorithm has three variants. It is assumed that the network topology and parameters are known. Information of fault types, fault resistances, source impedances, and prefault measurements is not needed to determine the fault location. The proposed algorithm is validated by evaluation studies performed on the modified IEEE 34 Node Test Feeder with over 45% DG penetration.
Whole genome duplication does not promote common modes of reproductive isolation in Trifolium pratense.

Premise Although polyploidy has been studied since the early 1900s, fundamental aspects of polyploid ecology and evolution remain unexplored. In particular, surprisingly little is known about how newly formed polyploids (neopolyploids) become demographically established. Models predict that most polyploids should go extinct within the first few generations as a result of reproductive disadvantages associated with being the minority in a primarily diploid population (i.e., the minority cytotype principle), yet polyploidy is extremely common. Therefore, a key goal in the study of polyploidy is to determine the mechanisms that promote polyploid establishment in nature. Because premating isolation is critical in order for neopolylpoids to avoid minority cytotype exclusion and thus facilitate establishment, we examined floral morphology and three common premating barriers to determine their importance in generating reproductive isolation of neopolyploids from diploids. Methods We induced neopolyploidy in Trifolium pratense and compared their floral traits to the diploid progenitors. In addition to shifts in floral morphology, we examined three premating barriers: isolation by self-fertilization, flowering-time asynchrony, and pollinator-mediated isolation. Results We found significant differences in the morphology of diploid and neopolyploid flowers, but these changes did not facilitate premating barriers that would generate reproductive isolation of neopolyploids from diploids. There was no difference in flowering phenology, pollinator visitation, or selfing between the cytotypes. Conclusions Our results indicate that barriers other than the ones tested in this study-such as geographic isolation, vegetative reproduction, and pistil-stigma incompatibilities-may be more important in facilitating isolation and establishment of neopolyploid T. pratense.
Killing for the Telephone Company: Why the Nation‐State is Not the Keeper of the Common Good

Christian ethicists often assume that the state is the agency whose purpose it is to protect and promote the common good. This conclusion is based on a series of assumptions of fact: that the state is natural and primordial, that society gives rise to the state and not vice-versa, and that the state is one limited part of society. In this essay I examine the origins of the state and the state-society relationship according to those who study the historical record, and argue that the above assumptions of fact are untenable in the face of the evidence. The essay concludes by registering a theological challenge to the state's sometimes overreaching claims to be the keeper of the common good and the repository of sacred values that demands sacrifice on its behalf. In the face of these tendencies, one of the church's urgent tasks is to demystify the nation-state and to treat it like the telephone company—i.e., as a provider of goods and services that contribute to a certain limited order.
The Use of Human Brain Microphysiological Systems to Diagnose Autoimmune Central Nervous System Diseases (481)

Objective: To assess the potential utility of BMPs in the diagnosis of N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) encephalitis, limbic encephalitis (LE), neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein disease (MOG). Background: Despite recent improvements in the diagnosis of autoimmune disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) using cell- and tissue-based assays, diagnostic measures remain suboptimal. The development of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) derived multicellular 3D co-culture brain microphysiological systems (BMPS), containing specific neural cell types, could be a more human-representative model. Design/Methods: BMPS were generated from human iPSC generated from fibroblasts using EBV-based vectors; iPSCs colonies were differentiated to generate aggregates of neuronal and glial progenitor cells on culture. Immunohistochemistry was performed on BMPS incubated with primary antibodies to surface neuronal and glial proteins, or human serum/CSF from patients with autoimmune CNS disorders and healthy controls, combined with intracellular markers of neurons and glial cells. For detection, secondary fluorescent antibodies were used. Results: BMPS showed expression of neuronal and glial antigens targeted in NMDA, LE encephalitis, NMO, and MOG. NR1 and LGI1 expression was observed only in neuronal cells. AQP4 and MOG expression was observed only in glial cells. Patient serum and CSF from patients suffering from NMDA (n=4) and LE (n=2) encephalitis bound to BMPS neuronal cells, while serum from patients suffering from NMO (n=2) and MOG (n=2) bound to BMPS glial cells. Serum/CSF from healthy controls (n=10) did not bind to BMPS neuronal or glial cells. Thirteen patient’s sera/CSF with presumed autoimmune CNS disorder but sero-negative by conventional assays were screened with BMPS; eight bound to antigens present in neuronal and/or glial cells in different staining patterns. Six demonstrated extracellular binding and two intracellular binding. Conclusions: Since human BMPs may express human-specific antigens that are not present on rodent cells, they could be an additional diagnostic and research tool for autoimmune CNS disorders. Disclosure: Dr. Carvajal- Gonzalez has nothing to disclose. Dr. Munoz-Arcos has nothing to disclose. Dr. Barreras has nothing to disclose. Dr. Pamies has nothing to disclose. Dr. Pardo-Villamizar has received research support from McLean’s foundation. Dr. Venkatesan has nothing to disclose.
Combining Particles with Surfactants to Improve Microscopic Displacement and Sweep Efficiency

Surfactants and gel treatments are two major types of chemicals that have gained a great deal of attention in the oil industry due to their oil recovery enhancement and water shutoff improvement. The surfactants are mainly used to improve the microscopic displacement efficiency or change the rock wettability from oil wet to oil wet for oil recovery improvement, while gel treatments are often used to significantly reduce the fluid flow through channels or fracture and thus improve water flooding efficiency. The combination of these two methods have a great potential to significantly improve oil recovery in both micro- and macro-scope. This chapter first reviews the fundamentals of surfactants, conventional nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles and preformed gel particles that are often used in EOR applications. Then, it describes how the combination of surfactants with these particles can be used to significantly enhance oil recovery in terms of their mechanisms and laboratory experimental results.
Impact of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy on Image-Defined Risk Factors in High-Risk Neuroblastoma.

Image-defined risk factors (IDRFs) are associated with surgical risks in neuroblastoma. We sought to evaluate the impact of neoadjuvant therapy on IDRFs and associated ability to achieve gross total resection (GTR) of locoregional disease in patients with high-risk neuroblastoma. We retrospectively reviewed charts of patients treated on four consecutive high-risk neuroblastoma protocols over a 20-year period at a single institution. The number of IDRFs at diagnosis and just prior to surgery, and the percent decrease of tumor volume from just prior to surgery to the end of induction were determined. Eighty-eight patients were included. There were 438 IDRFs (average 5.0 ± 3.1 per patient) at diagnosis and 198 (average 2.3 ± 1.9 per patient) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p 90% GTR at 9.33 [95% confidence interval 3.14–31.5]. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy reduced the number of IDRFs in the majority of patients with high-risk neuroblastoma. The number of IDRFs present after neoadjuvant therapy correlated with the extent of resection.
Prioritizing Quality Management and Sociotechnical Variables in Terms of Quality Performance

The purpose of this study was to identify the critical work environment variables for quality performance in a service organization. The study's theoretical framework was based on total quality man...
Effect of Coupling on Defect Proneness in Evolutionary Open-Source Software Development

Previous research on closed-source software found that highly coupled software modules were more defect prone, which makes it important to understand the effect of coupling on defect proneness in open-source software (OSS) projects. For this purpose, we used Cox proportional hazards modeling with recurrent events. We found that the effect of coupling was significant, and we quantified this effect on defect proneness.
Adaptation of reef and mangrove sponges to stress: evidence for ecological speciation exemplified by Chondrilla caribensis new species (Demospongiae, Chondrosida)

Sponges (Porifera) in mangroves have adapted to a wide range of environmental parameters except for extended periods of exposure to freshwater or air. Many marine mangrove islands are located in the shallow backwaters of coral reefs in Belize and elsewhere in the Caribbean and have a mean tidal range of only 15 cm. They are densely populated by sponges, mostly attached to subtidal red-mangrove stilt roots and peat banks lining tidal channels. Some species are endemic to mangroves, others are immigrants from nearby reefs. Mangrove endemics endure environmental hardships, such as occasional exposure to air during spring tides, temperature and salinity extremes, fine sediments, even burial in detritus. Reef immigrants into mangroves enjoy protection from spongivores that do not stray into the swamp but they eventually succumb to environmental stress. There is evidence exemplified by the common demosponge Chondrilla aff. nucula, that sponges flourishing in both mangrove and reef habitats may develop separate ecologically specialized and reproductively isolated populations. Such processes can lead to genetic modifications and thus serve as mechanisms for ecological speciation. Because Chondrilla nucula Schmidt was first described from the Mediterranean Sea, it was long suspected that the western Atlantic population may be a separate species. New morphological and molecular evidence prompt us to describe it under a new name, Chondrilla caribensis, with two ecological forms, forma caribensis from mangroves and lagoons, and forma hermatypica from open reefs.
NAU Web Course Evaluations; Online Learning from the Students’ Perspective

Northern Arizona University (NAU) is the only university located outside major Arizona metropolitan areas. The universities mission is to serve rural Arizona through distance education initiatives. Recently NAU has added web courses to further serve a growing number of statewide students. It is recognized that to offer meaningful courses on the Internet changes to the organization of class materials and method of instruction have to occur. Student evaluation of web courses is key to understanding the impact of this method of delivery on the students and the institution. It is crucial for effective planning and to improve the web courses. More research must be done to continually improve the web courses and the methods for delivering class materials for the students to work on. This process has just begun at NAU and will continue. Results of the Fall ‘98 and Spring ‘99 semesters can be viewed at http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~tdf/eval.
Melting points and heats of fusion of polymers and copolymers

Theoretical calculations indicate that the melting point of a linear polyethylene should be experimentally determinable within 0.1°C., that of a low density polyethylene within 1°C., that of a 80/20 copolyester within 2°C. copolyester within 2°C. and that of a 60/40 copolyester within 5°C. Heats of fusion of polyethylene and polyesters as estimated by diffeerent methods are in good agreement, but uncertainties still exist in the case of polyamides. It is shown that correlation of melting points with molar cohesion energies is misleading and without theoretical foundation. Eastimation of the absolute entropies of polyethylene, polyethylene sebacate and several polyamides gives results indicating that the high melting point of the polyamides is due to a low entropy of the liquid phase rather than to a high entropy of the solid phase as has hitherto been proposed. On the other hand the low melting point of the aliphatic polyesters results chiefly from a low heat of fusion, and not from a high entropy of fusion as has also been previously suggested. Two melting regions which can be observed in certain copolyesters result from melting of crystals formed under two conditions; namely, small crystals produced by random crystallization of nearest neighbours, “cold crystallization”, and crystals of equilibrium size produced under ideal thermodynamic conditions. Because of restrications to crystallization due to the decreasing numbers of long sequences of crystallizable units with decreasing mole fraction, it is doubtful if melting points of copolymers hitherto measured have any thermodynamic significance. Much more precise measurements of carefully annealed samples at high mole fractions will be required before heats of fusion of activity coefficients of crystallizable units can be calculated from melting point data.
Topic Discovery and Future Trend Prediction Using Association Analysis and Ensemble Forecasting

In this paper, we propose using association analysis and ensemble forecasting to automatically discover topics from a set of text documents and forecast their evolving trend in the near future. In order to discover meaningful topics, we collect publications from a particular research area, data mining and machine learning, as our data domain. An association analysis process is applied to the collected data to first identify a set of topics, followed by a temporal correlation analysis to help discover correlations between topics, and identify a network of topics and communities. After that, an ensemble forecasting approach is proposed to predict the popularity of research topics in the future. Our experiments and validations on data with 9 years of publication records validate the effectiveness of the proposed designs.
The MAX 7000 architecture: building on a winning formula

Altera's MAX 7000 architecture provides a high performance, high programmable logic solution, maintaining the easy to use features that were pioneered by the MAX 5000 architecture. The level of performance that MAX 7000 provides is important, since high density programmable-logic devices will continue to be driven by advancements in digital system technologies. As technology advances, the amount of information and data to be processed increases, and as a result, this data must be processed at a faster and faster rate to satisfy the ultimate system's goal. Therefore, the performance and logic capability of a particular PLD's architecture become the key factors in its value to designers of high technology products.
Effect of osmolality on angiotensin-stimulated aldosterone production by primary cultures of bovine adrenal glomerulosa cells

Studies were performed to examine the relationship between osmolality and aldosterone production using primary cultures of bovine adrenal glomerulosa cells. Cell monolayers were incubated under hypo- (234 mOsm), iso- (274 mOsm), or hyperosmotic (318 mOsm) conditions in the absence or presence of angiotensin II (10(-12) M to 10(-9) M). Although basal steroidogenesis was unaffected, angiotensin II-stimulated aldosterone production was inversely related to osmolality. Mannitol and NaCl were equally effective as osmotic particles. Thus, modulation of angiotensin II-stimulated aldosterone secretion produced in vivo by changes in plasma osmolality result, in part, from a direct effect on the glomerulosa cells.
Statins and postoperative delirium

Delirium (acute confusional state) may be the most common postoperative complication in elderly people. It is associated with substantial morbidity, mortality and cost.[1][1] Two decades ago, the prevalent belief was that it was normal for older patients to be a “bit confused” after surgery. Now
Glucose-specific regulation of aldose reductase in capan-1 human pancreatic duct cells In vitro.

Impaired pancreatic duct secretion is frequently observed in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), although the cellular mechanism(s) of dysfunction remains unknown. Studies in other tissues have suggested that a hyperglycemia-induced decrease in Na, K-ATPase activity could contribute to the metabolic complications of IDDM and that increased polyol metabolism is involved in this response. The present studies examined the effects of glucose on Na, K-ATPase activity and on expression and activity of aldose reductase (AR), a primary enzyme of polyol metabolism, in Capan-1 human pancreatic duct cells. Increasing medium glucose from 5.5 to 22 mM caused a 29% decrease in Na,K-ATPase activity. The decrease was corrected by 100 microM sorbinil, a specific AR inhibitor. Increasing glucose from 5.5 to 110 mM also resulted in concentration-dependent increases in AR mRNA and enzyme activity that could be resolved into two components, one that was glucose specific and observed at pathophysiological concentrations ( 55 mM) and which was not glucose specific. The present study demonstrates that pathophysiological levels of glucose specifically activate polyol metabolism with a consequent decrease in Na,K-ATPase activity in pancreatic duct epithelial cells, and that this response to hyperglycemia could contribute to decreased pancreatic secretion observed in IDDM. This is the first report of AR regulation in the pancreatic duct epithelium.
Electron-energy-loss spectroscopy of H adsorbed on Rh(100): Interpretation of overtone spectra as two-phonon bound states

The vibrational properties of H adsorbed in the fourfold-hollow site on Rh(100) have been studied with high-resolution electron-energy-loss spectroscopy. At saturation coverage (one H per Rh atom), proper selection of the incident-electron energy and collection angle of the scattered electrons allow the detection of the symmetric (perpendicular) and asymmetric (degenerate parallel) fundamental transitions and five overtone transitions. The fundamental transitions exhibit significant frequency shifts as the H coverage is changed, establishing that H-H interactions are important in determining the local curvature of the adsorption potential-energy surface. Spectra of isotopically mixed layers (H and D) establish that significant dynamic coupling exists in both the parallel and perpendicular states at 1.0 monolayer coverage. The phonon bandwidths estimated from the isotope dilution experiments are 12--15 meV. The dynamic coupling is comparable to the local anharmonicity of the vibrational potential, and the overtones correspond to two-phonon bound-state excitations. A one-dimensional model of coupled, anharmonic oscillators is used to guide the interpretation of the overtone spectra. A qualitative interpretation of the spectra requires a proper accounting of the dispersion of both the fundamental and overtone excitations and indicates that the predominantly parallel polarized vibrations are extremely anharmonic, and the predominantly vertical polarized vibrations are only mildly anharmonic. Quantitative determination of the local anharmonicity requires a more detailed description of the H-H coupling than is currently available as the dispersion and anharmonicity are comparable.
Moderate, excessive or heavy alcohol consumption: each is significantly associated with increased mortality in patients with chronic hepatitis C.

Summary Background The impact of moderate alcohol consumption on long-term outcomes of chronic hepatitis C (CH-C) infected patients remains controversial. Aim To assess the impact of moderate alcohol consumption on long-term outcomes of CH-C patients using population-based data. Methods Data were obtained from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III)-mortality linked files. Alcohol consumption was estimated as grams/day. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was utilized to assess the effects of CH-C and alcohol consumption on mortality (all causes, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease). Results A total of 8985 participants were included as the study cohort. Of these, 218 had CH-C. The follow-up time was 162.95 months for CH-C and 178.27 months for controls. CH-C patients had increased risk for both overall mortality and liver-related mortality. CH-C patients with excessive alcohol consumption had even higher risks for overall mortality and liver-related mortality. The risk of overall mortality associated with CH-C increased with moderate alcohol consumption of 1–19 g/day and heavy alcohol consumption ≥30 g/day. Conclusion Although chronic hepatitis C is associated with increased risks for overall and liver-related mortality, these risks are even higher for patients consuming moderate and excessive amounts of alcohol.
Synthesis of α and β anomers of l-serine d-xylopyranoside

Abstract The synthesis of l -serine β- d -xylopyranoside as well as of its α-anomer is described. Both compounds were compared with the natural material isolated from heparin and from cartilage chondroitin sulfate. The natural material is identical with l -serine β- d -xylopyranoside.
[3H]Muscimol photolabels the γ-aminobutyric acid receptor binding site on a peptide subunit distinct from that labeled with benzodiazepines

Summary Affinity column-purified GABA-benzodiazepine receptor protein from bovine brain was photoaffinity labeled with both [ 3 h]flunitrazepam and [ 3 h]muscimol. Gel electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate revealed that the benzodiazepine binding site labeled with [ 3 h]flunitrazepam was primarily associated with a major peptide subunit revealed by protein staining with Mr=52 kiloDaltons, with minor labeling of a second peptide of Mr=57 kiloDaltons, corresponding to a second major stained band. Covalent incorporation of [ 3 H]muscimol was limited to the 57 kiloDalton band, with no labeling of the 52 kiloDalton peptide, showing that the GABA binding site is carried by a subunit distinct from that carrying the benzodiazepine binding site.
Microstructure of copper and nickel irradiated with fission neutrons near 230°C

The microstructures of pure copper and nickel specimens were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) following irradiation at ∼ 230°C in a mixed spectrum fission reactor to damage levels between 0.01 and 0.25 displacements per atom (dpa). A high density of small stacking fault tetrahedra (SFT) and dislocation loops was observed in both materials, and a moderate density of small voids was observed in the irradiated copper specimens. From a comparison with published studies, the proportion of SFTs and dislocation loops in copper was observed to be nearly constant over a wide range of damage levels at temperatures between 200 and 250°C. This suggests that nucleation and growth of interstitial loops to visible sizes is rather difficult in copper in this temperature regime. On the other hand, the loop size and density in nickel increased steadily with increasing dose. The defect clusters in nickel formed a {001} planar wall pattern which became visible after damage levels of ∼ 0.1 dpa. Defect cluster patterning was not observed in the irradiated copper specimens.
Variability in the southerly flow into the eastern pacific ITCZ

Abstract During boreal summer and fall, there is a strong southerly boundary layer flow across the equator into the east Pacific intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ). The modulation of this flow on synoptic to seasonal time scales is studied using an index of meridional pressure difference between the equator and the ITCZ along 95°W. Two complementary datasets from the East Pacific Investigation of Climate (EPIC) are used to study eastern Pacific variability. Daily measurements of sea level pressure (SLP) from Tropical Atmosphere Ocean (TOA) array buoys from May to November 2001 provide temporal coverage, and eight flights by a C-130 aircraft during September to October 2001 document the associated modulation of lower tropospheric vertical structure. The principal mode of variability of the perturbation SLP along 95°W from 1°S to 12°N, derived by principal component analysis from either the eight flights (PC1C-130) or from daily TAO buoy observations (PC1), explains 77% of the meridional pressure gradien...
Regional Precipitation Trends: Distinguishing Natural Variability from Anthropogenic Forcing

Abstract In this study, the nature and causes for observed regional precipitation trends during 1977–2006 are diagnosed. It is found that major features of regional trends in annual precipitation during 1977–2006 are consistent with an atmospheric response to observed sea surface temperature (SST) variability. This includes drying over the eastern Pacific Ocean that extends into western portions of the Americas related to a cooling of eastern Pacific SSTs, and broad increases in rainfall over the tropical Eastern Hemisphere, including a Sahelian rainfall recovery and increased wetness over the Indo–West Pacific related to North Atlantic and Indo–West Pacific ocean warming. It is further determined that these relationships between SST and rainfall change are generally not symptomatic of human-induced emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and aerosols. The intensity of regional trends simulated in climate models using observed time variability in greenhouse gases, tropospheric sulfate aerosol, and solar and ...
Clumping: A clue to the limitations of rodent density studies and their interpretation

Deermice living in a large enclosure were observed to spend most of their time in extremely close proximity to each other. In light of this finding, crowding interpretations of density effects and methodological difficulties attendant on the use of density as a variable are considered.
Interaction between DNA and an Escherichia coli protein ω

Abstract An E. coli protein, designated ω, has been purified at least 1000-fold. Treatment of a eovalently closed DNA duplex containing negative superhelical turns with ω results in the loss of most of the superhelical turns. The loss of superhelical turns follows a gradual course rather than a one-hit mechanism. This reaction does not require a cofactor. No other change in the physical properties of the DNA could be detected. The DNA remains covalently closed. Its ultraviolet absorption spectrum, circular dichroism, buoyant density in CsCl, sedimentation properties in neutral media containing varying amounts of ethidium and in an alkaline medium, and its susceptibility toward Neurospora endonuclease, are not significantly different from an untreated DNA containing the same number of superhelical turns. Thus it appears that ω is capable of introducing a “swivel” reversibly into a DNA. A plausible mechanism is postulated.
Identification of PATCHED mutations in medulloblastomas by direct sequencing.

*Correspondence to Allen Bale, Department of Genetics, SHM I321, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street,New Haven, CT 06520-8005, USA; Telephone: 203-785-7610; E-mail: bale@biomed.med.yale.edu ; Fax: 203-785-7227.†Jianli Dong is currently at the Department of Human Genetics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York.
Biological similarity relative to allometric quantities.

It is an empirical finding that an allometric quantity with dimensional exponents α, β and γ relative to mass, length, and time, respectively, has a value for its allometric exponentb satisfying the relation $$\tfrac{1}{3}(3\alpha + \beta + {\gamma \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {\gamma 2}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} 2}) \leqslant b \leqslant \tfrac{1}{3}(3\alpha + \beta + \gamma ).$$ A theoretical derivation is given of this double inequality using only the fact of constant density and the plausible assumption that metabolic rate is a dominant allometric quantity.
Sparse PrP Sc accumulation in the placentas of goats with naturally acquired scrapie

Background Domestic goats (Capra hircus) are a natural and experimental host of scrapie and bovine spongiform encephalopathy, the transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) of sheep and cattle. Goats are also susceptible to experimental infection with the agents of TSEs of deer and elk (chronic wasting disease) and humans (Creutzfeldt Jakob disease). Distribution of PrPSc, the abnormal prion protein, is similar in the tissues of scrapie-infected sheep and goats but no data are available on the potential shedding of the agent through the placenta, the presumed route of transmission of ovine scrapie. We describe the sparse accumulation of PrPSc in the placentas of goats with naturally acquired classical scrapie in comparison to field cases of classical ovine scrapie.
Heat and Power Integration of Methane Reforming Based Hydrogen Production

Heat and power integration studies are carried out for a conventional methane reforming based hydrogen production plant by formulating and solving the minimum hot/cold/electric utility cost problem for the associated heat exchange network. The formulation of the problem allows for the optimal integration of heat exchangers, heat engines, and heat pumps, and its solution shows a utility profit due to electricity production in excess of process needs. Heat integration alone (pinch analysis) results in a 36% reduction in utility costs with respect to a conventional (albeit nonoptimized) process.
New concentration gradient designs for reverse saturable absorption limiters

A new method for the design of reverse saturable absorbing (RSA) dye concentration gradient (CG) limiters is developed and applied to produce three new designs. The radiation transport equation and the divergence behavior cI Gaussian beams are solved together analyticaly for the dye concentration gradient and the fluence distribution in the sample. It is demonstrated that the fluence distribution for a given CG can be found which is independent of the dye kinetics. A new figure ofmerit for gradient RSA limiters is defmed and used to compare designs. These new designs are shown to be significantly better than a constant fluence design. These designs are useful for initiating numerical nonlinear beam propagation studies.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The importance of nonpharmacologic approaches in management of osteoarthritis

Treatment of the patient with osteoarthritis should be comprehensive, with nonpharmacologic approaches considered as primary therapy, and analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) assigned to an adjunctive role. These nonmedicinal approaches can include joint protection strategies; the use of thermal modalities (heat and cold) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS); the development of exercise programs (that focus not only on the localized impairment, but on the functional limitations and disability secondary to inactivity); weight loss programs; the use of patellar tapping, wedged insoles, tidal irrigation (of the knee); and the introduction of coping skills and social support.
The Experimental Mindset within Development Economics: Proper Use and Handling Are Everything

Recent work with Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) in development economics has contributed to economists' use of the experimental mindset to inform policy choices. Development scholars, however, question the authority of RCT evidence, and worry that the RCT trend will turn their profession away from theory and econometrics. We examine this challenge, as well as RCTs' role within the broader experimental area, with a thorough review of relevant literature. We find that generic RCT fears are overstated. Experimental methods should be evaluated as a tool to test theory, search for patterns, and to pre-test new institutions. From this mindset, we see unexplored pathways that may benefit from the experimental mindset, further economic theory, and reduce poverty.
Environmental sequence following the Fraser advance of the Juan de Fuca lobe, Washington

Abstract Stratigraphic palynology and radiocarbon chronology of two bogs and a lake on the northwestern Olympic Peninsula serve to record the environmental sequence postdating the Fraser maximum of the Juan de Fuca lobe. Wastage of the lobe in the terminal area began before 14,460 ± 200 BP. Differential downwasting followed, and the last remnants of dead ice probably disappeared some time before 9,380 ± 180 BP. Ablation moraine became sufficiently thick in the course of wastage for a vegetation cover to become established. Arboreal remains of this cover, found buried in till, date between 12,020 ± 210 and 13,380 ± 250 BP. Communities of Pinus contorta first succeeded on deglaciated surfaces during the Vashon Stade. Environmental conditions were comparable to those prevailing in the modern subalpine forest, and average July temperature stood near 12°C. Later, during the Everson Interstade (11,000–13,000 BP.), Alnus and Picea multiplied as temperature increased posibly to as much as 14°. During the Sumas Stade (10,000–11,000 BP.), temperature was again ca. 12°, the cooler climate halting wastage and the spread of Alnus and enabling communities of Picea, Tsuga heterophylla, and T. mertensiana to temporarily achieve stability. Postglacial environments through the Hypsithermal (ca. 3,000 BP) were dominated principally by Alnus. Alnus, succeeded in turn by Picea, invaded the landscape, following the recession of alpine glaciers and the rise in elevation of the snowline. For a time, as suggested by a peak of Pseudotsuga, temperature may have reached close to 17° and annual precipitation less than 760 mm. Arboreal communities were relatively open while light-requiring Pteridium remained conspicuous in the record. After 3000 BP during Neoglaciation, climate became sufficiently cool and moist to favor the development of extensive, closed communities of Tsuga, Picea, Thuja, and other hygrophilous species.
Advisor-Advisee Relationships in Graduate Training Programs:

Advisor—advisee relationships are an important aspect of the career development of professionals in many fields; however, limited scholarship has focused on these relationships. In the three articles of this special section, the authors attempt to help remedy this situation by articulating a culturally infused model of advising relationships in graduate training. This article lays the foundation for the authors’ model by reviewing the literature relevant to advising and mentoring. In the subsequent articles, the authors propose that it is critical to understand how within-group cultural variables affect the advising relationship. Articulating a framework for understanding the advising relationship as a multicultural endeavor may help educators prepare the next generations of professionals and facilitate increased empirical attention to this important, yet underexamined construct.
Neutron resonance spectroscopy: Fluorine

Results are reported of high resolution transmission measurements on Teflon, ${(\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{F}}_{2})}_{n}$, for the total cross section of natural fluorine vs energy from 500 eV to 200 keV. This region has three strong $l=1$ levels which were fitted using a multilevel $R$-matrix analysis. The best fit (${E}_{0},J,{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{n}$) parameters are (26.99, 2, 0.325), (48.78, 1, 1.67), and (97.50, 1, 14.5), where ${E}_{0}$ and ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{n}$ are in keV. The results are consistent with previous measurements. They yield $10^{4}S_{1}=({11.1}_{\ensuremath{-}5.2}^{+12.4})$ for $^{19}\mathrm{F}$ using a 5 fm channel redius.NUCLEAR REACTIONS $^{19}\mathrm{F}(n,n)$, $n,\ensuremath{\gamma}$, $E=500 \mathrm{eV}\ensuremath{-}200 \mathrm{keV}$; measured ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{t}(E)$; deduced ${E}_{0}$, $l$, $J$, ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{n}$, ${S}_{1}$.