cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nonacid meat decontamination technologies: model studies and commercial applications.

Increased consumer awareness and concern about microbial foodborne diseases has resulted in intensified efforts to reduce contamination of raw meat, as evidenced by new meat and poultry inspection regulations being implemented in the United States. In addition to requiring operation of meat and poultry slaughtering and processing plants under the principles of the hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP) system, the new regulations have established microbiological testing criteria for Escherichia coli and Salmonella, as a means of evaluating plant performance. These developments have renewed and intensified interest in the development and commercial application of meat and poultry decontamination procedures. Technologies developed and evaluated for decontamination include live animal cleaning/washing, chemical dehairing, carcass knife-trimming to remove physical contaminants, steam/hot water-vacuuming for spot-cleaning/decontamination of carcasses, spray washing/rinsing of carcasses with water of low or high pressures and temperatures or chemical solutions, and exposure of carcass sides to pressurized steam. Under appropriate conditions, the technologies applied to carcasses may reduce mean microbiological counts by approximately one-three log colony forming units (cfu)/cm2, and some of them have been approved and are employed in commercial applications (i.e., steam-vacuuming; carcass spray-washing with water, chlorine, organic acid or trisodium phosphate solutions; hot water deluging/spraying/rinsing, and pressurized steam). The contribution of these decontamination technologies to the enhancement of food safety will be determined over the long term, as surveillance data on microbial foodborne illness are collected. This review examines carcass decontamination technologies, other than organic acids, with emphasis placed on recent advances and commercial applications.
Bulk residual resistivity of ultra-pure gallium

Abstract A study of the effect of boundary scattering on the residual resistivity of gallium single crystals oriented for current flow along the b -axis gives for the extrapolated bulk residual resistivity a value of 1.6 ± 0.8 ϱΩ cm . Coupled with the approximate determination of the ϱ b l b product, an electron mean free path of 4 cm is estimated.
Sequential hemi-body irradiation (HBI) in treatment of advanced neuroblastoma: A pilot study

Abstract Eight patients between 13 months and 15 years old with Stage IV neuroblastoma were treated between December, 1978 and March, 1980 with half body irradiation (HBI) in addition to multidrug chemotherapy. Three patients had HBI after completion of treatment. Five patients had HBI concomitantly with chemotherapy, of these 4 are alive. The mean survival time of the patients who died is 15 months, 2 patients are alive with disease at 18 and 25 months and 2 are disease free at 16 and 19 months from diagnosis. The main side effect of treatment was bone marrow depression. HBI did not significantly increase the toxicity produced by chemotherapy.
Modulation of leukotriene synthesis and actions by synthetic derivatives of arachidonic acid

Seven analogs of arachidonic acid were tested for their coronary vasoactivity and their ability to inhibit LTC4 and LTD4 synthesis by lung tissue and to antagonize LTD4 induced coronary constriction. None of the seven arachidonic acid analogs significantly altered peptide leukotriene production by minced cat lung. Two of the analogs (i.e., 7, 13-diethanoarachidonic acid and 7, 10, 13-triethanoarachidonic acid) exerted modest but significant coronary vasodilation in isolated cat coronary arteries, and significantly antagonized the coronary vasoconstrictor response to LTD4. These analogs may be of interest in modulating leukotriene actions.
Toxicity of 5-thioglucose towards a pathogenic yeast, Torulopsis glabrata.

5-thioglucose (T-glc) caused premature death of T. glabrata cells after 1-and 2-day culture in defined glucosecontaining medium. T-glc equilibrated with 80% of the cell water but did not accumulate in resting or growing cells. The sulfur analog had little or no effect on, 1) the rate of glucose uptake, 2) the kinetics of endogenous trehalose turnover preceding new growth, and 3) the viability of resting cells. A hallmark of cells grown in the presence of T-glc was the retention of abnormally high concentrations of glycogen after 2-day culture. Toxicity of T-glc towards Candida albicans and C. tropicalis was also indicated.
Antixenosis in Maize Reduces Feeding by Western Corn Rootworm Larvae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

SUM2162 is the first known example of a naturally occurring maize, Zea mays L., genotype with antixenosis (nonpreference) resistance to western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), larval feeding. Behavioral responses of neonate western corn rootworm larvae were evaluated in laboratory bioassays with seven maize genotypes selected for native resistance to rootworm feeding damage. Two susceptible maize genotypes and one transgenic (Bacillus thuringiensis) maize genotype were included as controls. In soil bioassays with cut roots, no larvae entered the roots of the resistant variety SUM2162, but at least 75% of the larvae entered the roots of every other maize type. Larvae made significantly fewer feeding holes in the roots of SUM2162 than in all the other maize genotypes, except the isoline control. In feeding bioassays, larval feeding varied significantly among maize genotypes, but there was no significant difference between the resistant varieties and the susceptible controls. There were no significant differences among any of the genotypes in host recognition (search) behavior of larvae after exposure to the roots. Little variation in feeding stimulant blends was observed among maize genotypes, indicating minimal contribution to the observed antixenosis.
A goal programming/constrained regression review of the Bell system breakup

The recently implemented court decision to break up Bell (=American Telephone & Telegraph Co.) to accord with U.S. anti-trust laws represents a highly significant policy decision which is proving to be influential in other countries as well as the U.S. The telecommunication industry is of such size and importance that even relatively small economies that might be lost with Bell's breakup as a “natural monopoly” could involve substantial welfare losses to consumers and producers. Studies commissioned by the U.S. Justice Department that approached this topic by econometric methods reported that the evidence failed to support the contention that Bell was a natural monopoly. Here a goal programming/constrained regression, as developed in the Management Science literature, uses the same functional form and the same data but nevertheless reverses the main findings of the econometric studies in every one of the 20 years covered. This kind of difference in results obtained by two different methods of analysis poi...
Chronology of Holocene glaciation, central Brooks Range, Alaska

The central Brooks Range was glacierized in the highest, north-facing cirques during late-middle to late Holocene (Neoglacial) time. This Neoglaciation involved at least 5 major cirque-glacier expansions of similar magnitude, as based on lichenometric mapping of more than 50 glaciers and radiocarbon dates directly associated with 5 moraines. Initial stabilization of debris-covered glaciers took place by early Holocene time, but evidently no moraines formed during this interval. Few morainal ridges are preserved that date from the older expansions, but they have been lichenometrically dated (± 20% age reliability) to 3 separate intervals: 4400, 3500, and 2900 yr B.P. Twelve morainal complexes have ridges indicative of glacial advance that lichenometrically date at 1800 ± 500 yr B.P. Relict lichens that are now emerging undisturbed from beneath a receding glacier toe imply that this time was one of prolonged recession in at least some parts of the Brooks Range, however. Radiocarbon analysis of dead moss at this same site dates a subsequent Neoglacial advance across the cirque floor at 1120 ± 180 yr B.P. Our data suggest that for the past ∼1,100 yr, cirque glaciers have been continuously in more extended positions than they are today. During this glaciologically favorable interval, the last two major advances occurred at 800 ± 150 and 390 ± 90 yr B.P. (A.D. 1410–1600). Glaciers across the central Brooks Range stayed close to their maxima until A.D. 1640–1750. Historical photographs and lichenometry show that retreat was most rapid after A.D. 1870 and decelerated after the mid-1900s. Recession from this most recent Neoglacial maximum has amounted to 150–700 m and continues at present. The cirque glacier advances were accompanied by equilibrium-line altitude (ELA) depressions of 100 to 200 m below levels maintained in the late 1970s. Environmental lapse rate estimates and 1977–1981 glaciologic-meteorologic measurements suggest that summer air temperatures accompanying Neoglacial maxima were, respectively, 1 °C or 3 to 4 °C cooler than those of the late 1970s. Across the central Brooks Range, the Neoglacial maxima ELAs rise northeastward and northward from 2 to 5 m km −1 .
Interpreting and evaluating CESIfo's World Economic Survey directional forecasts

Abstract Using the Carlson and Parkin (1975) framework and employing the Pesaran–Timmermann (1992) Predictive Failure statistic, we evaluate several consensus forecast series from CESIfo's World Economic Survey. Several issues are examined related to interpreting qualitative survey responses. We define what an “about the same” response implies across different economic variables, the value of agreement across the forecast panel, and how to maximize the signal value provided by the survey. We find that survey respondents provide statistically significant directional forecasts or signals.
Finance and Property Rights: Exploring Other Directions

There is a consensus that stronger property rights advance financial development. We provide evidence that the reverse hypothesis is also true. We isolate the structural component in the finance–property rights relationship using an instrument for financial development (private credit) based on an index of exposure to foreign crises, in addition to generalized method of moments approaches for panel data. Our results suggest a one standard deviation increase in private credit from its average in 2005 translates into a 0.5- to 1.0-point increase in property rights. To contextualize this, the difference in property rights between Israel and Uruguay, two countries separated by about one standard deviation in the volume of private credit, was 0.67 points.
P or CP determination by sequential decays: V 1 V 2 modes with decays into l̄ A l B and/or q̄ A q B

For application at modern colliders, the \ensuremath{\varphi}\ensuremath{\varphi} symmetry tests are generalized to the generic sequential decay X\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${V}_{1}$${V}_{2}$ where at least one of the vector bosons decays into a lepton and an antilepton, or a quark and an antiquark. The general decay correlation function I(${\mathrm{theta}}_{1}$,${\mathrm{theta}}_{2}$,\ensuremath{\varphi}) and its integrated distributions are simultaneously characterized in convenient \ensuremath{\alpha}'s, \ensuremath{\beta}'s, and \ensuremath{\gamma}'s which are simple triquadratic functions of the three sets of helicity amplitudes. From a JJ, \ensuremath{\Upsilon}\ensuremath{\Upsilon}, or ${Z}^{0}$${Z}^{0}$ mode the parity ${\ensuremath{\eta}}_{P}$ or the CP eigenvalue ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\mathrm{CP}}$ of X can always be determined if the decay is respectively P or CP invariant, as can (${\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}})}^{J}$ of X except in certain circumstances. From a ${W}^{+}$${W}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ mode, ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\mathrm{CP}}$ can always be determined. For modes such as \ensuremath{\varphi}J, J\ensuremath{\Upsilon}, and \ensuremath{\varphi}${Z}^{0}$, ${\mathrm{JZ}}^{0}$, ${\ensuremath{\eta}}_{P}$${(\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}})}^{J}$, or ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\mathrm{CP}}$${(\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}})}^{J}$ can be determined provided certain amplitudes do not accidentally vanish. Generalization to the ${\mathrm{gZ}}^{0}$ and gg decay channels, g=gluon jet, is discussed.
Using choice question formats to determine compensable values: The case of a landfill-siting process

Abstract Siting noxious facilities, such as community landfills, is a challenging problem for local planners who recognize the importance of economic efficiency and equity, political acceptance, and meeting federal regulatory standards. Meeting these criteria requires technical and socio-economic analyses in conjunction with public input. Planners may also recognize that political acceptance requires compensation for the host community, either in the form of monetary or in-kind transfers. Following Breffle and Rowe [Breffle, W.S., Rowe. R.D., 2002. Comparing choice question formats for evaluating natural resource tradeoffs. Land Econ. 78 (2), 298–314], we use a “resource-to-resource” paired-comparison survey method to estimate compensatory values associated with an in-county landfill for both the host and non-host communities. Our results indicate that while a host-community household's minimum willingness to accept payment for hosting a landfill may exceed a non-host-community household's maximum willingness to pay, a large difference in population sizes between the two communities enables the landfill to pass a Kaldor potential compensation test.
HP1 recruitment in the absence of argonaute proteins in Drosophila.

Highly repetitive and transposable element rich regions of the genome must be stabilized by the presence of heterochromatin. A direct role for RNA interference in the establishment of heterochromatin has been demonstrated in fission yeast. In metazoans, which possess multiple RNA–silencing pathways that are both functionally distinct and spatially restricted, whether RNA silencing contributes directly to heterochromatin formation is not clear. Previous studies in Drosophila melanogaster have suggested the involvement of both the AGO2-dependent endogenous small interfering RNA (endo-siRNA) as well as Piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA) silencing pathways. In order to determine if these Argonaute genes are required for heterochromatin formation, we utilized transcriptional reporters and chromatin immunoprecipitation of the critical factor Heterochromatin Protein 1 (HP1) to monitor the heterochromatic state of piRNA clusters, which generate both endo-siRNAs and the bulk of piRNAs. Surprisingly, we find that mutation of AGO2 or piwi increases silencing at piRNA clusters corresponding to an increase of HP1 association. Furthermore, loss of piRNA production from a single piRNA cluster results in genome-wide redistribution of HP1 and reduction of silencing at a distant heterochromatic site, suggesting indirect effects on HP1 recruitment. Taken together, these results indicate that heterochromatin forms independently of endo-siRNA and piRNA pathways.
Reaction Rates and Mechanism of the Ascorbic Acid Oxidation by Molecular Oxygen Facilitated by Cu(II)-Containing Amyloid-β Complexes and Aggregates

A forefront of the research on Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the interaction of amyloid beta (Abeta) peptides with redox metal ions (e.g., Cu(II), Fe(III), and Fe(II)) and the biological relevance of the Abeta-metal complexes to neuronal cell loss and homeostasis of essential metals and other cellular species. This work is concerned with the kinetic and mechanistic studies of the ascorbic acid oxidation reaction by molecular oxygen that is facilitated by Cu(II) complexes with Abeta(1-16), Abeta(1-42), and aggregates of Abeta(1-42). The reaction rate was found to linearly increase with the concentrations of Abeta-Cu(II) and dissolved oxygen and be invariant with high ascorbic acid concentrations. The rate constants were measured to be 117.2 +/- 15.4 and 15.8 +/- 2.8 M(-1) s(-1) at low ( Abeta(1-16)-Cu(II) > Abeta(1-42)-Cu(II) > Cu(II) complexed by the Abeta oligomer/fibril mixture > Cu(II) in Abeta fibrils. The finding that Cu(II) in oligomeric and fibrous Abeta aggregates possesses considerable activity toward H(2)O(2) generation is particularly significant, since in senile plaques of AD patients the coexisting copper and Abeta aggregates have been suggested to inflict oxidative stress through the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Although Cu(II) bound to oligomeric and fibrous Abeta aggregates is less effective than free Cu(II) and the monomeric Abeta-Cu(II) complex in producing ROS, in vivo the Cu(II)-containing Abeta oligomers and fibrils might be more biologically relevant given their stronger association with cell membranes and the closer proximity of ROS to cell membranes.
Effectiveness of bycatch-reduction devices in roller-frame trawls used in the Florida shrimp fishery

Abstract High rates of fishery discards have been noted for penaeid shrimp fisheries worldwide and especially for the shrimp trawl fisheries of the southeastern U.S.A. Selective fishing gear, such as bycatch-reduction devices (BRDs), can significantly decrease bycatch and discards in shrimp trawl fisheries. The roller-frame trawl, a type of gear unique to Florida, is used in seagrass beds to harvest food shrimp and bait shrimp. No BRD is required for roller-frame trawls, although bycatch can be significant. We tested the effectiveness of two BRDs – the Florida fisheye (FFE) and the large-mesh extended-mesh funnel (EMF) – in reducing bycatch in roller-frame trawls. Tests were conducted at two Florida locations: the nearshore waters off Tarpon Springs, where food shrimp are harvested, and Biscayne Bay, where bait shrimp are harvested. At Tarpon Springs, each device was tested independently and with the addition of a stimulator cone; the cone was not tested at Biscayne Bay. We tested each BRD configuration using a paired trawl design; a BRD-equipped net was deployed off one side of the boat, and a control net with no BRD was deployed off the other side of the boat. The effectiveness of the BRD configurations in retaining shrimp while reducing bycatch varied considerably. Although some significant species-specific reductions were observed in the FFE, that BRD did not significantly reduce overall finfish bycatch, but it did retain shrimp. The EMF performed well, but only at Tarpon Springs. Bycatch reduction was significant, albeit low, and shrimp loss was low. At Biscayne Bay, both bycatch and shrimp loss were significantly reduced in the EMF. Use of the stimulator cone with the FFE and the EMF resulted in significant bycatch reduction but also significant shrimp loss. Modification of the gear may improve their performance in roller-frame trawls.
DNA sequence selectivity of hairpin polyamide turn units.

A class of hairpin polyamides linked by 3,4-diaminobutyric acid, resulting in a β-amine residue at the turn unit, showed improved binding affinities relative to their α-amino-γ-turn analogs for particular sequences. We incorporated β-amino-γ-turns in six-ring polyamides and determined whether there are any sequence preferences under the turn unit by quantitative footprinting titrations. Although there was an energetic penalty for G·C and C·G base pairs, we found little preference for T·A over A·T at the β-amino-γ-turn position. Fluorine and hydroxyl substituted α-amino-γ-turns were synthesized for comparison. Their binding affinities and specificities in the context of six-ring polyamides demonstrated overall diminished affinity and no additional specificity at the turn position. We anticipate that this study will be a baseline for further investigation of the turn subunit as a recognition element for the DNA minor groove.
Gripping parts at concave vertices

A simple gripper with two vertical cylindrical jaws can make contact with external or internal concavities in polygonal and polyhedral parts to align and grip parts in form closure. This is called a /spl nu/-grip. We begin by defining 2D /spl nu/-grips, where a pair of frictionless point jaws makes contact with a pair of polygonal part concavities to achieve form-closure. We define a /spl nu/-grip quality metric based on the maximum possible change in the part's orientation when jaw position is relaxed infinitesimally. For a polygonal part with polygonal holes, we give an algorithm for computing and ranking 2D /spl nu/-grips. We also extend the definition to jaws with non-zero radii. In 3D, /spl nu/-grips are achieved with a pair of frictionless vertical cylinders. We define 3D /spl nu/-grips and give a numerical algorithm for computing all 3D /spl nu/-grips of a polyhedral part. If n is the number of vertices that describe the part and k is the number of concave vertices, we can compute all 2D /spl nu/-grips in O(n+k/sup 2/) time. Measures of complexity are given for computing offsets for jaws with nonzero radii, a ranked list of 2D /spl nu/-grips based on the quality metric, and all 3D /spl nu/-grips. A Java implementation of the 2D algorithm is available.
Elimination of directional wave spectrum contamination from noise in elevation measurements

The Surface Contour Radar (SCR) is a 36-GHz computer-controlled airborne radar which generates a false-color-coded elevation map of the sea surface below the aircraft in real time, and can routinely produce ocean directional wave spectra with post-flight data processing which have much higher angular resolution than pitch-and-roll buoys. The SCR range measurements are not error-free and the resulting errors in the elevations corrupt the directional wave spectrum. This paper presents a technique for eliminating that contamination.
Economic shocks and civil conflict: Evidence from foreign interest rate movements☆

Abstract We exploit annual variation in influential foreign interest rates to identify externally-driven components of short-run income shocks in small open economies from 1971 to 2004 and explore the statistical nature of the income–civil conflict nexus. Our results show that movements in foreign interest rates have important effects on civil conflict risk through domestic economic channels. More importantly, the income–conflict relationship is found to be nonlinear – the conflict risk of ethnolinguistically fragmented countries is found to be much more sensitive to shifts in economic conditions than that of homogeneous countries. These results suggest an important mechanism by which short-term economic shocks affect the trajectory of the political and economic performance of ethnically divided states.
Techcrafters and Makecrafters: A Comparison of Two Populations of Hackers

The frequency and sophistication of computer attacks have increased in the last decade as have reports concerning the involvement of organized crime and state sponsored groups in hack attacks. Information security research has improved our understanding of the attack methods used to compromise systems, though there is a need to consider the attitudes, ethics, and social behaviors of computer attackers. Such information can improve our knowledge of the sources of attacks, and increase our capability to profile the individuals responsible for these attacks. This study will explore the attitudinal and behavior differences in the hacker community using two samples of respondents collected from hacker conferences and a university information security course. A new framework for considering computer attackers is also proposed to reflect changes in the general dynamics of hacking and technology.
When hawks attack: animal-borne video studies of goshawk pursuit and prey-evasion strategies

Video filmed by a camera mounted on the head of a Northern Goshawk ( Accipiter gentilis ) was used to study how the raptor used visual guidance to pursue prey and land on perches. A combination of novel image analysis methods and numerical simulations of mathematical pursuit models was used to determine the goshawk's pursuit strategy. The goshawk flew to intercept targets by fixing the prey at a constant visual angle, using classical pursuit for stationary prey, lures or perches, and usually using constant absolute target direction (CATD) for moving prey. Visual fixation was better maintained along the horizontal than vertical direction. In some cases, we observed oscillations in the visual fix on the prey, suggesting that the goshawk used finite-feedback steering. Video filmed from the ground gave similar results. In most cases, it showed goshawks intercepting prey using a trajectory consistent with CATD, then turning rapidly to attack by classical pursuit; in a few cases, it showed them using curving non-CATD trajectories. Analysis of the prey's evasive tactics indicated that only sharp sideways turns caused the goshawk to lose visual fixation on the prey, supporting a sensory basis for the surprising frequency and effectiveness of this tactic found by previous studies. The dynamics of the prey's looming image also suggested that the goshawk used a tau-based interception strategy. We interpret these results in the context of a concise review of pursuit–evasion in biology, and conjecture that some prey deimatic ‘startle’ displays may exploit tau-based interception.
Participation in Breast Cancer Susceptibility Testing Protocols: Influence of Recruitment Source, Altruism, and Family Involvement on Women’s Decisions

Objectives. We offered education, counseling, and family-based BRCA1 / 2 testing to women at increased risk of breast cancer and assessed ( a ) their reasons for participating and ( b ) whether source of recruitment, desire to help research (altruism), and the need to communicate with their affected relative about testing distinguish those who did and those who did not complete each phase of our protocol. Materials and Methods. We sent invitations to 403 women who had completed a questionnaire on BRCA1 / 2 testing, 178 of whom were considered high risk because they had more than one relative on the same side of the family with early-onset breast cancer. Results. Among the 132 high-risk respondents from the mid-Atlantic states (where testing was offered), 36% ( n = 47) were interested in counseling. Those who actually attended counseling were more likely to have some college education, a higher perceived risk of breast cancer, and a greater fear of stigma and were less likely to have a daughter than those who did not attend. The reasons for attending that were rated “very important” were to learn about the test (80%), to have the test (43%), and to help research (38%). High-risk women were eligible for testing only if their affected relative was willing to be tested and tested positive. After the session, 83% intended to ask their affected relative to be tested, but only half of the affected relatives actually came for pretest counseling. The proportion of participants who ultimately involved an affected relative was 2.5 times higher among women from a clinical population (25%) than among those from a registry population (10%); in this latter population, an altruistic desire to help research was a greater motivator for participation than interest in being tested. Conclusions. Source of recruitment influences both motivations to attend education and counseling and actual testing behavior. These results have implications for interpretation of findings from studies in research settings as well as for informed consent and decision-making in the context of family-based testing.
An algorithm transformation technique for multi-dimensional DSP systolic arrays

Algorithm such as FIR (finite-impulse-response) filtering, 1-D convolution, and DFT (discrete Fourier transform), which are traditionally mapped onto 1-D systolic network, can be formally transformed and mapped onto higher-dimensional systolic networks. With suitable implementation algorithms developed for these transformed digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms, the speed of computation can be significantly improved without increasing the order of area complexity. Results of transforming and implementing these DSP algorithms onto higher-dimensional systolic arrays are presented. The proposed technique leads to a significant improvement in computational time while keeping the area complexity constant. >
A 3 V GSM codec

Designed to satisfy the data conversion requirements of the Pan-European (GSM) cellular radio system, the chip is part of a four chip-set total GSM solution comprising the codec, the DSP, the digital ASIC, and the micro-controller. Fabricated in a 0.8 /spl mu/m double-poly, double-metal CMOS process, the integrated circuit combines a voiceband codec with a baseband codec plus auxiliary converters in an 80-pin TQFP package while running off a single 3 V power supply.
Femtosecond laser-assisted lamellar keratoplasty

Lamellar keratoplasty consists of transplanting partial-thickness donor cornea onto a complementary recipient bed. Manual lamellar dissection is technically very difficult, time-consuming, and imprecise. Also, the manually-dissected lamellar interface often has topographical irregularities that may optically degrade the best-corrected visual acuity. The femtosecond clinical laser (IntraLase FS Laser, Irvine, CA) is a recent innovation that can be programmed to produce bladeless, precise lamellar cuts at any depth with accompanying trephination cuts for both anterior and posterior lamellar transplantation. Posterior laser cuts may be used to assist in deep lamellar endothelial keratoplasty or Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty.
Defining 'current drinkers' in national surveys: results of the 2000 National Alcohol Survey.

Aims The purpose of this study is to determine which respondents of national surveys who report low ‘usual’ past year drinking frequency, are unsure of their drinking frequency or refuse to answer, are misclassified either as ‘current drinkers’ or as ‘ex-drinkers.’ Design and setting The data are from the 2000 National Alcohol Survey, a national household telephone probability sample of adults in all 50 US States and Washington, DC (n = 7612). Participants A subsample of 1734 respondents who reported drinking ‘less than once a month but at least once a year’, ‘less than once a year’, ‘refused’ and ‘don’t knows’ were also asked if they had consumed a whole drink of any alcoholic beverage in the 12 months using dates to anchor the question. Measurements Five alcohol measures were used to compare groups who changed or did not change their drinking status based on the followup question: volume, mean number of days 5 +, social consequences, dependence symptoms and DSM-IV. Findings The results indicate that only 4.6% of respondents (n = 349) changed their drinking status, and the percentages were equal in both directions. Women were more likely to change their drinking status and specifically become ex-drinkers based on the follow-up question. Respondents who became current drinkers drank significantly at a lower average volume than those who remained current drinkers. The prevalence rates based on the five alcohol measures were not affected by how ‘current drinker’ is defined. Conclusions Adding the follow-up question is recommended for new alcohol surveys so that fewer respondents are misclassified.
Prolyl 3-Hydroxylase 1 and CRTAP are Mutually Stabilizing in the Endoplasmic Reticulum Collagen Prolyl 3-Hydroxylation Complex

Null mutations in cartilage-associated protein (CRTAP) and prolyl 3-hydroxylase 1 (P3H1/LEPRE1) cause types VII and VIII OI, respectively, two novel recessive forms of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) with severe to lethal bone dysplasia and overmodification of the type I collagen helical region. CRTAP and P3H1 form a complex with cyclophilin B (CyPB) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) which 3-hydroxylates the Pro986 residue of alpha1(I) and alpha1(II) collagen chains. We investigated the interaction of complex components in fibroblasts from types VII and VIII OI patients. Both CRTAP and P3H1 are absent or reduced on western blots and by immunofluorescence microscopy in cells containing null mutations in either gene. Levels of LEPRE1 or CRTAP transcripts, however, are normal in CRTAP- or LEPRE1-null cells, respectively. Stable transfection of a CRTAP or LEPRE1 expression construct into cells with null mutations for the transfected cDNA restored both CRTAP and P3H1 protein levels. Normalization of collagen helical modification in transfected CRTAP-null cells demonstrated that the restored proteins functioned effectively as a complex. These data indicate that CRTAP and P3H1 are mutually stabilized in the collagen prolyl 3-hydroxylation complex. CyPB levels were unaffected by mutations in either CRTAP or LEPRE1. Proteasomal inhibitors partially rescue P3H1 protein in CRTAP-null cells. In LEPRE1-null cells, secretion of CRTAP is increased compared with control cells and accounts for 15-20% of the decreased CRTAP detected in cells. Thus, mutual stabilization of P3H1 and CRTAP in the ER collagen modification complex is an underlying mechanism for the overlapping phenotype of types VII and VIII OI.
When Corporate Image Affects Product Evaluations: The Moderating Role of Perceived Risk

Abstract In two experiments, the authors show that corporate image associations with innovation and trustworthiness (but not social responsibility) influence product evaluations more when consumers perceive high (versus low) risk in the product purchase. Their findings extend previous research by identifying perceived risk as a moderator of the effects of corporate image on product evaluations. The authors discuss implications for the conditions governing the “flow-through” of corporate image to individual product evaluations.
Transgenic nonhuman primates for neurodegenerative diseases

Animal models that represent human diseases constitute an important tool in understanding the pathogenesis of the diseases, and in developing effective therapies. Neurodegenerative diseases are complex disorders involving neuropathologic and psychiatric alterations. Although transgenic and knock-in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease, (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD) have been created, limited representation in clinical aspects has been recognized and the rodent models lack true neurodegeneration. Chemical induction of HD and PD in nonhuman primates (NHP) has been reported, however, the role of intrinsic genetic factors in the development of the diseases is indeterminable. Nonhuman primates closely parallel humans with regard to genetic, neuroanatomic, and cognitive/behavioral characteristics. Accordingly, the development of NHP models for neurodegenerative diseases holds greater promise for success in the discovery of diagnoses, treatments, and cures than approaches using other animal species. Therefore, a transgenic NHP carrying a mutant gene similar to that of patients will help to clarify our understanding of disease onset and progression. Additionally, monitoring disease onset and development in the transgenic NHP by high resolution brain imaging technology such as MRI, and behavioral and cognitive testing can all be carried out simultaneously in the NHP but not in other animal models. Moreover, because of the similarity in motor repertoire between NHPs and humans, it will also be possible to compare the neurologic syndrome observed in the NHP model to that in patients. Understanding the correlation between genetic defects and physiologic changes (e.g. oxidative damage) will lead to a better understanding of disease progression and the development of patient treatments, medications and preventive approaches for high risk individuals. The impact of the transgenic NHP model in understanding the role which genetic disorders play in the development of efficacious interventions and medications is foreseeable.
Tertiary prevention: implications for improving the quality of life of long-term survivors of cancer.

Objective To provide an overview of the incidence, epidemiology, and appropriate screening for second primary malignancies, as well as the nursing implications of tertiary cancer prevention. Data Sources Published review articles, book chapters, research reports, and the clinical experience of the author. Conclusion Many persons successfully treated for malignancy are at risk for a second malignancy. This risk is related to shared risk factors, genetic predisposition, and the toxic effects of therapy. Persons particularly at risk are those who have been successfully treated for breast, gynecologic, colorectal, skin, and lymphoma malignancies. Implications for Nursing Practice Nurses need to be knowledgeable regarding the principles of tertiary prevention, be able to identify persons at risk, and provide appropriate patient education and psychosocial support on how to manage the risk and detect second malignancies early.
Global distribution of the annual range in soil temperature

Maps of annual range in soil temperature at 10, 30, and 120 cm depths were constructed, using the data of 780 stations throughout the world. Temperature-range profile charts for 18 stations are presented and briefly discussed. The depth of invariable temperature is about ten meters in the tropics, and 15–20 m in middle and high latitudes.
An extended Tanh law MOSFET model for high temperature circuit simulation

The Tanh law MOSFET model proposed earlier by Shousha & Aboulwafa (see ibid., vol. 28, no. 2, p. 176-9, 1993) is extended to predict the temperature dependence of the drain current by including the temperature dependence of the threshold voltage and the mobility. The model requires fewer temperature dependent parameters compared to SPICE level2 model. The extended model shows good agreement between measurement and simulation of devices with different device geometries over wide temperature range (27-200/spl deg/C). >
Real-time collaborative editing behavior in USA and Japanese distributed teams

While there are tools that allow distributed teams to collaboratively edit in real time, little work examines this practice among real teams doing real work. Even less is known about how teams from different countries make use of real-time collaborative editing tools. The current work highlights results from a qualitative user study of real-world Japanese and U.S. distributed work teams who used LiveDeck, a real-time slide editing and whiteboarding tool. Through the implementation of various novel features used as probes, differences in behavior and attitudes between team members were uncovered. Differences in the use of slide navigation options, anonymity features, and pop-up 'emotes' representing nonverbal gestures are discussed.
Queuing Among U2 Fans: Reactions to Social Norm Violations

Two experiments examined reactions to line-intrusion scenarios among fans of the rock group U2 waiting in overnight lines to obtain desirable concert floor spots. Commitment to the goal, time investment, and ambiguity of the line-intrusion scenario were examined. Results showed that the queue is a social system influenced by norms of procedural justice (first-come, first-served). Violations of these norms were upsetting, even when the consequences did not directly influence personal outcomes (when line intrusions occurred behind a subject). Greater commitment to the goal led to more severe reactions to norm violations, whether the commitment was proximal (having waited in the line for awhile) or distal (being a committed fan). We discuss research on social norm violations.
Dynamic causal modeling of fMRI time series in response to fearful faces

Dynamic causal modeling was used to quantify effective connectivity among limbic regions within each brain hemisphere. fMRI data obtained from seven healthy, normal subjects belonging to the low trait anxiety group during passive viewing of emotionally-valent facial stimuli was used for connectivity analyses. A fully connected and reciprocal model consisting of the amygdala, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex regions was defined and intrinsic connections between each of the components of the model were estimated for both the left and right hemispheres. We hypothesized that the strongest components within the model will be inhibitory in nature. No evidence supporting predominantly inhibitory mechanism was observed in our preliminary modeling results. Our results indicate the existence of distinct effective connectivity patterns between the two hemispheres.
Modulated morphologies and tunable thiol-responsive shedding of aqueous block copolymer aggregates

Controlled morphologies of aqueous sheddable block copolymer aggregates having tunable thiol-responsive degradation are reported. New thiol-responsive degradable block copolymers consisting of a hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) block and a hydrophobic polystyrene (PSt) block having disulfide linkages at block junctions were synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization in the presence of a newly-synthesized PEO-based bromine macroinitiator labeled with disulfides. These well-controlled PEO–ss–PSt block copolymers self-assembled to form aqueous aggregates having various morphologies, including spheres, vesicles, and rod-like aggregates, which was controlled not only by structural parameters, such as PSt block length and disulfides, but also by using the aqueous micellization method. Such structural and morphological variation of aqueous aggregates led to the control of their thiol-responsive degradation rate.
Mitochondrial Complexes in Trypanosoma brucei A Novel Complex and a Unique Oxidoreductase Complex

African trypanosomes, early diverged eukaryotes and the agents of sleeping sickness, have several basic cellular processes that are remarkably divergent from those in their mammalian hosts. They have large mitochondria and switch between oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis as the major pathways for energy generation during their life cycle. We report here the identification and characterization of several multiprotein mitochondrial complexes from procyclic form Trypanosoma brucei. These were identified and purified using a panel of monoclonal antibodies that were generated against a submitochondrial protein fraction and using tandem affinity purification (TAP) tag affinity chromatography and localized within the cells by immunofluorescence. Protein composition analyses by mass spectrometry revealed substantial divergence of oxidoreductase complex from that of other organisms and identified a novel complex that may have a function associated with nucleic acids. The relationship to divergent physiological processes in these pathogens is discussed.
Application Of Wikis With Scaffolding Structure In Laboratory Reporting

This work demonstrates how a Wiki can be mapped into different learning stages during group- based lab reporting via an adequate scaffolding structure. The scaffolding structure of the Wiki- based group report is comprised of six constructs in sequence: Appendix, Methods, Results, Analysis, Introduction and Conclusion. The scaffolding structure was developed with the intention of integrating a cooperative learning element into the Wiki’s collaborative learning platform. A case study based on a Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) lab was presented in the study to describe in detail how the group lab report was developed with the Dashboard Wiki. The Wiki compiled data from 42 group reports and student feedback. Lab observations were collected to determine if the Wiki with scaffolding structure, as an instructional tool, had a positive impact on student learning.
Detecting Ligand-Induced Motions in Pentameric Ligand-Gated Ion Channels

Chemical signaling in the brain and periphery relies on rapid opening and closing of pentameric ligand-gated ion channels (pLGICs). While recent high resolution crystal structures of pLGICs in apparently closed, open and desensitized channel conformations are providing invaluable insights into possible activation mechanisms, whether these static protein structures, solved in detergent micelles, accurately capture the conformational gating transitions that a functional pLGIC undergoes when embedded in a lipid bilayer is unknown. Using site-directed spin labeling of a prototypical pentameric ligand-gated ion channel, GLIC, and double electron-electron resonance (DEER) spectroscopy, we are mapping motions underlying ligand-driven gating transitions in functional channels reconstituted into liposomes. In regions at the boundary between the ligand binding domain (loops 2 and 9) and the channel domain (M2-M3 loop), we found that proton-driven gating transitions induced a large movement of loop 9 and an immobilization of loop 2. In the extracellular β-sandwich domain, spin probes attached to the inner beta-sheet moved closer together at pH 3.0, suggesting that the extracellular binding domain of GLIC tilts radially inward when the channel transitions from a closed to open/desensitized states. These data, combined with recently solved structures, expand our understanding of signaling mechanisms underlying pLGIC gating transitions.
Analysis of DEAD-box proteins in mRNA export.

Abstract DEAD-box ATPases/helicases are a large family of enzymes (> 35 in humans) involved in almost all aspects of RNA metabolism including ribosome biogenesis, RNA splicing, export, translation, and decay. Many members of this family are ATP-dependent RNA-binding proteins that interact with the RNA phosphodiester backbone and promote structural remodeling of target complexes through ATP binding and hydrolysis. Here, we describe the methods used in our laboratory to characterize the DEAD-box ATPase Dbp5 of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Dbp5 is essential for the process of mRNA export in budding yeast and highly conserved orthologs can be found in all eukaryotes. Specifically, we describe enzyme assays to measure the catalytic activity of Dbp5 in association with RNA and known binding partners, as well as assays developed to measure the binding affinities and release kinetics of RNA and adenosine nucleotides from Dbp5. These assays have provided important information that has shaped our current models of Dbp5 function in mRNA export and should be useful for the characterization of other DEAD-box family members.
Single-incision laparoscopic resection of small bowel tumours: Making it easier for patient and surgeon

Background: Patients with small bowel tumours frequently require surgical intervention. Minimally invasive techniques require advanced skills and may not be offered to many patients. We present a laparoscopic single-incision technique that is minimally invasive without requiring intracorporeal anastomosis. Materials and Methods: The cases of all patients with laparoscopic small bowel resections performed by one surgeon from 2008 to 2012 were reviewed. A single-port technique was introduced after it became available at our institution in 2009. Before that, conventional laparoscopy (LAP) was performed with extension of the periumbilical incision to allow externalisation of the bowel. Results: Totally, 10 patients were identified who underwent laparoscopic resection of small bowel tumours: 9 in the small bowel and 1 in the terminal ileum near the cecum. Three tumours were resected before 2009 using LAP, and 7 were resected using the single-port technique. Median length of stay was 3 days, median follow-up was 16.5 months, and no patients had a recurrence. Operative time, post-operative complications, hospital length of stay, and narcotic utilisation were similar between the single-port and traditional laparoscopic groups. Conclusion: Laparoscopic removal of small bowel tumours with a small, periumbilical trocar incision is both effective and feasible without advanced technical skill.