cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for back pain among male farmers: analysis of Iowa Farm Family Health and Hazard Surveillance Study

BACKGROUND: Back pain causes considerable morbidity, disability, and economic loss among workers. Farmers handle heavy objects, often in awkward postures. However, the prevalence of back pain among farmers and the risk factors associated with back pain are not well known. METHODS: In this study, we assess the frequency of risk factors for back pain among 287 Iowa male farmers. From 1992 to 1994, using a mail questionnaire, we collected data on potential risk factors for back pain. Eighteen months later, we surveyed occurrence of back pain as the outcome measure. RESULTS: Thirty-one percent of farmers reported having daily back pain for a week or more during the past 12 months compared to 18.5% in the general working population. Using a multiple logistic regression model, we found two factors associated with back pain: 45-59 years of age (OR = 2.13, 95% CI 1.02-4.43) and having a non-agricultural job as the major occupation (OR = 2.02, 95% CI 0.98-4.17, P = 0.055). CONCLUSIONS: Farmers had a significantly higher prevalence of back pain than the general working population. Middle-aged farmers and those with additional non-agricultural jobs had the highest risk for back pain.
Tourism representations of Chinese cosmology: the case of feng shui tourism.

Abstract This paper contributes to the ongoing dialogue on social spatialization by examining how the divinatory practice and philosophy of feng shui is articulated within tourism discourses; specifically, within brochures promoting feng shui tours for Western tourists. Utilizing content analysis, the findings indicate that feng shui tourism landscapes are depicted as exoteric spaces of consumption through which tourists are existentially transformed. Furthermore, feng shui tours are framed as pedagogic experiences in which the roles of the tourist and the guide are redefined as student and international pedagogue, respectively, to counteract perceptions of feng shui as irrational and/or superstitious. Such findings demonstrate ways in which this contested divinatory practice of the periphery is edged to the center vis-a-vis tourism discourses.
Inelastic neutron scattering study of phonon density of states in nanostructured Si 1 − x Ge x thermoelectrics

Inelastic neutron scattering measurements are utilized to explore relative changes in the generalized phonon density of states of nanocrystalline Si1 xGex thermoelectric materials prepared via ball-milling and hot-pressing techniques. Dynamic signatures of Ge clustering can be inferred from the data by referencing the resulting spectra to a density functional theoretical model assuming homogeneous alloying via the virtual-crystal approximation. Comparisons are also presented between as-milled Si nanopowder and bulk, polycrystalline Si where a preferential low-energy enhancement and lifetime broadening of the phonon density of states appear in the nanopowder. Negligible differences are however observed between the phonon spectra of bulk Si andhot-pressed, nanostructured Si samples suggesting that changes to the single-phonon dynamics above 4 meV play only a secondary role in the modified heat conduction of this compound.
A residual-based test of the null of cointegration in panel data

This paper proposes a residual-based Lagrange Multiplier (LM) test for the null of cointegration in panel data. The test is analogous to the locally best unbiased invariant (LBUI) for a moving average (MA) unit root. The asymptotic distribution of the test is derived under the null. Monte Carlo simulations are performed to study the size and power properties of the proposed test. overall, the empirical sizes of the LM-FM and LM-DOLs are close to the true size even in small samples. The power is quite good for the panels where T ≥ 50, and decent with panels for fewer observation in T. In our fixed sample of N = 50 and T = 50, the presence of a moving average and correlation between the LM-DOLS test seems to be better at correcting these effects, although in some cases the LM-FM test is more powerful. Although much of the non-stationary time series econometrics has been criticized for having more to do with the specific properties of the data set rather than underlying economic models, the recent developmen...
A statistical theory of turbulent relative dispersion

The laws governing the spread of a cluster of particles in homogeneous isotropic turbulence are derived using a theoretical approach based on inertial subrange scaling and statistical diffusion theory. The equations for the mean square dispersion of a puff admit an analytical solution in the inertial subrange and at large scales. The solution is consistent with Taylor's theory of absolute dispersion. An analytical derivation of the Richardson–Obukhov constant of relative dispersion is presented. A time scale for relative dispersion is identified, as well as relations between Lagrangian and Eulerian structure functions. The results are extended to turbulence at finite Reynolds number. A closure assumption for the relative kinetic energy, based on Taylor's theory, is presented. Comparisons with direct numerical simulations and laboratory experiments are reported.
A “micro” homogenizer for small-volume samples

Abstract This paper describes the general design, construction and performance of a blendor capable of homogenizing a variety of biological samples of 2.5 ml to 7 ml volume in the complete absence of a liquid-gas interface.
High current density, low energy, ion implantation of AISI-M2 tool steel for tribological applications

Abstract The effects of the temperatures of fully hardened and mill-annealed AISI M2 steels during N implantation at low energy and high current density on their hardnesses, sliding wear behaviors, microstructures and N concentration profiles were investigated. It is shown that N implantation at 1 keV and 2 mA cm−2 can increase the hardness of the steel in either condition, but does not improve the wear resistance of the fully hardened material. Implantation of the mill-annealed material, however, yields a surface that is as wear resistant as the fully hardened surface. Strengthening and hardening are induced through enrichment of the matrix that bonds hard (Fe,Cr)3(W,Mo)3C and V4C3 particles with an iron nitride phase that appears to be predominantly e-Fe2+xN. The implantation temperature that yields the greatest surface hardness increase in either state is near 450 °C. The exponential prefactor and activation energy associated with N diffusion into heat-treated M2 steel are approximately 1.4 × 10−5 cm2 s−1 and approximately 0.70 eV respectively. In order for ions to be implanted, it is pointed out that their energy must be great enough to carry them through any barriers that may exist on a surface. It is shown that atomic B from an ion source can condense on a surface and produce a surface barrier that inhibits subsequent B+ implantation at the nominal N implantation energy of 1 keV.
Ewing's sarcoma metastatic to the gingiva

Although involvement of the jaws by Ewing's sarcoma is uncommon, when it occurs the clinical and radiographic presentation may mimic an inflammatory process, specifically pericoronitis. A case that illustrates this dilemma is presented.
Calcium-mobilizing Agonists Stimulate Anion Fluxes in Cultured Endothelial Cells from Human Umbilical Vein

The goal of the present studies was to determine whether anion fluxes are involved in thrombin-and histamine-activated signal transduction pathways in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). 125Iodine (125I) efflux techniques were used to test the sensitivity of anion fluxes to increases in [Ca2+] i and activation of protein kinase C. HUVECs exhibited constant 125I efflux rates under basal conditions. Administration of thrombin or histamine stimulated an increase in 125I efflux rates which returned to control values after approximately 1–2 min. Since both agonists stimulate increases in [Ca2+] i , we tested the hypothesis that 125I efflux was sensitive to changes in [Ca2+] i . When HUVECs were exposed to ionomycin or thapsigargin, the 125I efflux rate increased and remained elevated for several minutes. In subsequent experiments, HUVECs were incubated with the cell permanent Ca2+ chelator, 1,2-bis-(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid-AM, to buffer changes in [Ca2+] i . This treatment reduced both basal and thrombin-stimulated 125I efflux. However, when Ca2+ was removed from the efflux buffer and replaced with EGTA, peak thrombin-stimulated 125I efflux remained unchanged. This anion efflux was also sensitive to activation of protein kinase C since phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and phorbol, 12,13-dibutyrate blunted thrombin-mediated increases in 125I efflux. Preincubation of HUVECs with protein kinase C inhibitor peptide [19–36] antagonized the phorbol ester-mediated decrease in thrombin-stimulated 125I efflux. We suggest that 125I efflux in HUVECs represents a Ca2+-sensitive anion conductance and that intracellular Ca2+ release, but not extracellular Ca2+ influx, is sufficient to initiate channel activity.
Effect of multiple scattering on transition radiation from a dynamic interface.

The effect of multiple scattering (long-range, small-angle elastic Coulomb collisions) on the radiation field associated with transition radiation from a nonstationary plasmalike medium is addressed with the help of a simple model. The model assumes a relativistic charged particle traversing a single medium that is rapidly and abruptly changing its electromagnetic properties. An averaged diffusion tensor is calculated relativistically to effectively approximate a diminished formation zone in the medium, the effect of which on the differential radiation intensity and angular distribution of transition radiation is studied. It is shown here that multiple scattering is more than a fine-tuning effect, in that it has a marked enhancement effect on the differential yield over a wide and significant frequency range of the emitted photons as well as an appreciable shifting and slowing down of the rapid fall of the maximum intensity angular location over an equally significant angular range. It is suggested that one study the effect in an implosion-explosion process of a laser-prepared medium. Implications to transition radiation from a periodic medium and the more general process of transition scattering in nonlinear media are briefly discussed.
APPAREL SHOPPING BEHAVIOR OF ELDERLY MEN AND WOMEN

70 interested elderly (65 yr. and over) men and women participated in an investigation of older consumers' apparel-shopping behavior and satisfactions and dissatisfactions with available clothing and facilities. Analysis showed that the participants considered shopping ease, wide variety, and label/brand as some of the important factors while shopping for clothes. The respondents were satisfied with good selection, closeness of the mall, and reasonable sales. However, their dissatisfactions ranged from service to fit and size, youthful styles, and abundance of imported clothing. In-store displays, mail order catalogs, and window shopping were the most commonly used sources of apparel information. Several implications of the findings were discussed and suggestions for further research were made.
Influence of estuarine hypoxia on feeding and sound production by two sympatric pipefish species (Syngnathidae).

Abstract This research utilizes the acoustic behavior of two sympatric pipefish species to assess the impact of hypoxia on feeding. We collected northern, Syngnathus fuscus, and dusky pipefishes, Syngnathus floridae, from the relatively pristine Chincoteague Bay, Virginia, USA and audiovisually recorded behavior in the laboratory of fish held in normoxic (>5 mg/L O2) and hypoxic (2 and 1 mg/L O2) conditions. Both species produced high frequency (∼0.9–1.4 kHz), short duration (3–22 msec) clicks. Feeding strikes were significantly correlated with both wet weight of ingested food and click production. Thus, sound production serves as an accurate measure of feeding activity. In hypoxic conditions, reduced food intake corresponded with decreased sound production. Significant declines in both behaviors were evident after 1 day and continued as long as hypoxic conditions were maintained. Interspecific differences in sensitivity were detected. Specifically, S. floridae showed a tendency to perform head snaps at the surface. S. fuscus exhibited a breakdown in the coupling of sound production with food intake in 2 mg/L O2 with clicks produced in other contexts, particularly choking and food expulsion. Reductions in feeding will ultimately impact growth, health, and eventually reproduction as resources are devoted to survival instead of gamete production and courtship. This work suggests acoustic monitoring of field sites with adverse environmental conditions may reflect changes in feeding behavior in addition to population dispersal.
Female criminality: An overview

This article provides a broad overview of female crime and female offenders in the criminal justice system with a particular focus on the United States. The specific topics covered include the following: the age‐gender‐crime relationship, the types of crime committed by women, women and violent crime, the gender factor in the criminal and juvenile justice systems, and women in corrections. The article also includes the following: recommendations for improving comparative research and analysis in the study of female crime, a listing of important research topics in the comparative study of female crime, a discussion of the value of middle range theory in the study of female crime.
Postglacial Vegetation and Climate Change in the Northern Bristol Bay Region, Southwestern Alaska

Pollen analysis of sediment cores from Grandfather and Ongivinuk Lakes reveals a record of postglacial vegetation and climate change in the northern Bristol Bay region. The chronology is based on six conventional 14C dates of bulk organic matter from the Grandfather core. A mesic herb tundra dominated the landscape 13,000-9800 yr B.P. Betula shrubs probably first appeared in the region 11,300 yr B.P. but were restricted to favorable microhabitats until 9800 yr B.P. The later establishment of Betula shrubs and relatively low Betula pollen abundance in these records compared to other areas of eastern Beringia suggest that postglacial warming in southwestern Alaska was dampened by regional climatic controls, possibly low sea-surface temperatures of the North Pacific Ocean. Between 10,800 and 9800 yr B.P., diminished Betula shrub cover, along with decreased aquatic productivity as recorded by Pediastrum cell nets and biogenic silica, suggest a brief reversion to colder and drier climatic conditions possibly associated with the Younger Dryas event. Around 9800 yr B.P., Betula shrub tundra and meadow communities expanded, probably in response to increased temperature and precipitation. Alnus arrived and formed extensive thickets within the region ca. 7400 yr B.P. The establishment of the modern boreal forest-tundra ecotone is marked by the arrival of Picea glauca at Grandfather Lake ca. 4000 yr B.P. and the subsequent increase to present population densities ca. 2000 yr B.P. The unique features of these pollen records emphasize the spatial complexity of late Quaternary vegetation and climate history in eastern Beringia.
The Threat of Funding Cuts for Graduate Medical Education: Survey of Decision Makers

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the potential actions of medical school deans, graduate medical education (GME) com- mittee chairs, and hospital chief executive officers (CEOs) regarding future funding reductions for residency training. Specifically, institutions with emergency medicine (EM) residencies were surveyed to see whether EM training was disproportionally at risk for reductions. Methods: An anonymous 2-page survey was used. Ninety-eight EM residency programs were identified using the American Medical Association Graduate Medical Education Directory 1994-95. Seventy deans, 102 GME chairs, and 97 hospital CEOs were identified. The survey posed a hypothetical 25% forced reduction in residency positions and asked the decision makers for their responses. Options included: 1) proportional reductions of training positions from all residencies, 2) proportional reductions in either primary care or specialty residency positions, or 3) reduction or elimination of specific training programs. The survey asked for a first and second choice of residencies to be reduced or eliminated from an alphabetical list of 17. The survey elicited explanations for each program reduction.
Educating patients in self-management of epistaxis in an anticoagulation clinic.

Nosebleeds, also called epistaxes, are relatively common. An estimated 60% of people will have at least one epistaxis in their lifetime, with those receiving anticoagulant therapy having a greater risk.[1][1] One study found that 42% of patients who had epistaxes were taking nonsteroidal
Modeling, Ion Conductance, and Electrostatic Properties of the Protective Antigen Pore Structure of Anthrax Toxin

Despite repeated efforts, an atomic-resolution structure of the anthrax toxin protective antigen (PA) in its membrane-embedded pore form remains elusive. Recently, we determined the structure of the PA-pore at 16.0 A resolution using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) which signified progress but remained short of the desired atomic resolution. In this work, we employed a computational prediction approach and constructed the model structure of the heptameric PA-pore using I-TASSER complemented by the TACOS force field. Importantly, the electron density map obtained from the cryo-EM was used as an additional restraint during the modeling process. The overall structure was mushroom-shaped with a broad “cap” region and a narrow elongated “stem” in the form of a β-barrel. Remarkably, the β-barrel was not a straight cylinder, but “cigar-shaped” with a prominent bulge followed by a constriction region. The Poisson-Boltzmann electrostatic potential revealed that the structure featured rings of positively charged patches followed by negatively charged patches which can be potentially used to explain the proposed Brownian-ratchet mechanism of protein translocation at the PA-pore. A number of low-resolution structural features obtained previously from mutagenesis studies were used to initially corroborate the validity of the structure. Finally, grand-canonical Monte Carlo/Brownian dynamics simulations were conducted to calculate the ion conductance (KCl) and selectivity across the pore, which were found to be remarkably close to the experimental measurements and far better than those from previous modeling attempts of the PA-pore structure.
Linear Cn Clusters: Are They Acetylenic or Cumulenic?

Uncapped linear Cn clusters have been studied with hybrid density functional theory focusing on the geometry, HOMO−LUMO gap, and the longitudinal optical (LO) vibrational mode. The latter two correlate well with the bond length alternation (BLA) of the optimized geometry. Due to end effects, the BLA is not constant along the chains. The degree of BLA changes continuously with increasing n: starting with essentially nonalternating structures (cumulenic), then turning into strongly alternating (acetylenic) structures. This transition has not yet been described or characterized and occurs at relatively large values of n. The implications for the widely observed characteristic LO vibrational bands of linear carbon clusters are discussed.
Hormonal interactions and gene regulation can link monoecy and environmental plasticity to the evolution of dioecy in plants

Most models for dioecy in flowering plants assume that dioecy arises directly from hermaphroditism through a series of independent feminizing and masculinizing mutations that become chromosomally linked. However, dioecy appears to evolve most frequently through monoecious grades. The major genetic models do not explain the evolution of unisexual flowers in monoecious and submonoecious populations, nor do they account for environmentally induced sexual plasticity. In this review, we explore the roles of environmental stress and hormones on sex determination, and propose a model that can explain the evolution of dioecy through monoecy, and the mechanisms of environmental sex determination. Environmental stresses elicit hormones that allow plants to mediate the negative effects of the stresses. Many of these same hormones are involved in the regulation of floral developmental genes. Recent studies have elucidated the mechanisms whereby these hormones interact and can act as switchpoints in regulatory pathways. Consequently, differential concentrations of plant hormones can regulate whole developmental pathways, providing a mechanism for differential development within isogenic individuals such as seen in monoecious plants. Sex-determining genes in such systems will evolve to generate clusters of coexpressed suites. Coexpression rather than coinheritance of gender-specific genes will define the sexual developmental fate. Therefore, selection for gender type will drive evolution of the regulatory sequences of such genes rather than their synteny. Subsequent mutations to hyper- or hyposensitive alleles within the hormone response pathway can result in segregating dioecious populations. Simultaneously, such developmental systems will remain sensitive to external stimuli that modify hormone responses.
THE AMOUNT AND COMPOSITION OF A MINIMUM ESSENTIAL FRENCH READING VOCABULARY

Author's summary.— This article discusses the establishment of a minimum vocabulary based on actual experimentation, which will enable a two-year student to read with comprehension written French of average difficulty.
On the Transient Analysis of a V-Shaped Microgrooved Heat Pipe

In this paper, we present a transient mathematical model for a V-shaped microgrooved heat pipe considering the temporal variations in the fluid flow, and heat and mass transfer, and utilizing a macroscopic approach. Unlike other heat pipe models, the shear stress at the liquid-vapor interface and the disjoining pressure have been used in the momentum balance equation of the model. The sensible heat used by the substrate is also taken into account using a pseudo-lump capacity model. The coupled nonlinear partial differential equations governing the transient fluid flow, heat and mass transfer have been solved numerically. The transient and steady-state profiles for the radius of curvature, liquid and vapor velocity, liquid pressure, and substrate temperature have been obtained. The mathematical model is capable of predicting the time required for the onset of dry out at the hot end, and for a micro heat pipe to reach steady state. The time required to reach steady state is independent of heat input, heat pipe inclination, groove angle, and Q ss profile. However, the time required for the onset of dry out at the hot end decreases with increasing heat input, inclination, and groove angle. The model predicted results have been successfully compared to the results from the literature. The general nature of this model and the associated study can be useful for many practical applications in the microscale heat exchange.
CD30: seeing is not always believing

Although most investigators are well aware of the incredible success of brentuximab vedotin in the treatment of patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL), the study by Jacobsen and colleagues in this issue of Blood demonstrates surprising activity of this agent in patients with B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
Illocutionary Acts and the Uncanny: on Nicholas Wolterstorff's Idea of Divine Discourse

Nicholas Wolterstorff's Divine Discourse attempts to give philosophical warrant to the claim that ‘God speaks’. While Wolterstorff's argument depends largely on his appropriation of J.L. Austin's speech act theory, he also uses two narratives that for him demonstrate how ‘God speaks’. The first is the story of Augustine's conversion in the Confessions and the second is a story that Wolterstorff recounts about a certain ‘Virginia’. This study argues that what Wolterstorff claims to derive from Augustine's narrative for his view of divine discourse is not fully supported by the Confessions, and that Augustine's interpretation of the words ‘tolle lege, tolle lege’, can be construed as a useful interpretation of an ambiguous sign. This is consistent with Augustine's understanding of the interpretation of texts in both the De doctrina christiana and the Confessions. In short, Augustine is far more open to the ambiguity of signs than Wolterstorffs's account suggests.
The relationship of parental first concerns and autism spectrum disorder in an early intervention sample

Abstract Experts in the treatment of children with developmental disabilities emphasize the need to identify at-risk children at an early age. The ability to distinguish children at risk for particular developmental disabilities, such as autism (ASD), can help to target treatment to mitigate core symptoms and the deleterious effects of early delay on developmental trajectory. The present study investigates the relationship between parental first concerns (FC) (communication, social/emotional, cognitive/adaptive/global, behavior problems, motor, hyperactivity, and medical/other concerns) on ASD diagnosis in a sample of 2905 toddlers who presented for early intervention assessment in the state of Louisiana. We also examine whether developmental quotient (DQ) contributes to a diagnosis of ASD. Individuals deemed at-risk for a developmental disability represent a heterogeneous population, and this investigation aims to provide direction for identifying children likely to be diagnosed with an ASD according to parental perceptions of disability. Findings illustrating the differences in ASD diagnosis within each FC category are discussed.
INTERACTIVE EFFECTS OF RESOURCE ABUNDANCE AND STATE OF ADULTS ON RESIDENCE OF APPLE MAGGOT (DIPTERA, TEPHRITIDAE) FLIES IN HOST TREE PATCHES

In open-field patches of five potted host trees containing varying amounts of proteinaceous food and host hawthorn fruit, we investigated the comparative influence of varying fly physiological and experiential states on the location and duration of residence of 18-d-old released apple maggot, Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh), females. Several patterns of fly response were consistent with our preexperimental expectation. Thus, duration of residence was greater in patches where proteinaceous food and host fruit were present on all trees than in patches where either or both resources were absent from one or more trees, largely irrespective of fly physiological or experiential state. Flies that had no access to protein up to day of release (low egg load flies) were sighted in greater numbers on proteinaceous food than were flies that had continuous access to protein up to day of release (high egg load flies), whereas the reverse was true for flies sighted on host fruit. Flies that had partial access to protein up to day of release (intermediate egg load flies) were sighted in intermediate numbers on proteinaceous food and fruit. Flies that had continuous access to protein up to day of release were observed in greatest numbers on fruit if they received brief experience with fruit (as opposed to water or proteinaceous food) just before release. Presence on fruit of flies that had partial access to protein up to day of release was unaffected by type of brief experience just before release. Some patterns of fly response were not consistent with our preexperimental expectation. Thus, flies that had no or partial access to protein up to day of release were observed in fewer numbers (not greater or equal numbers, respectively) on proteinaceous food if they had brief experience with proteinaceous food just before release compared with brief experience with water or fruit. Flies that had no access to protein up to day of release and received brief experience with proteinaceous food just before release were found on tree foliage and in total in greater numbers (not equal numbers) than flies that had continuous access to protein up to day of release and received brief experience with fruit just before release. These and other findings are discussed in relation to previous knowledge of the resource foraging behavior of tephritid flies and in relation to improvement of behavioral methods of managing R. pomonella flies in commercial apple orchards.
Poster: scalable infrastructure to support supercomputer resiliency-aware applications and load balancing

High performance computing systems display increasing complexity and component counts. This trend exposes weaknesses in the underlying clustering infrastructure needed for continuous availability, maximizing utilization, and efficient administration of such systems. To mitigate the problem, we present a highly scalable clustering infrastructure, based on peer-to-peer technologies, for supporting resiliency-aware applications as well as efficient monitoring and load balancing. Supported services include Membership, Publish-subscribe messaging, Convergecast, Attribute replication and a DHT. We present a preliminary evaluation taken from an IBM BlueGene/P, demonstrating scalability up to ~ 256K nodes.
German possessor datives: raised and affected

The German Possessor Dative Construction (PDC) is an instance of External Possession: a single nominal acts simultaneously as possessor, that is, a subpart of a larger nominal phrase, and as a Benefactive or Malefactive (Affectee) argument of the verb. The challenge is to understand the mechanisms that make this dual functioning possible. Following Landau [Lingua 107 (1999) 1], this paper presents a Possessor Raising analysis, arguing that the Possessor Dative (PD) moves from the specifier of the possessed nominal to a verbal argument position. The analysis is implemented in a dynamic structure-building framework, where heads with their selectional features are introduced in the course of the derivation, and it is in principle possible that an argument that gets merged into the structure to take on one thematic role raises into a newly built sentence domain to fulfill another thematic role. This movement and the resulting double θ-role assignment are crucially driven by formal features; that is, both stem from the fact that, in its origin site, the raised argument is not case-licensed. An additional caselicensing head is needed for the derivation to converge. This head is an affectee light verb which assigns inherent dative case to the argument in its specifier. Thus, unlike Landau’s account of PDCs in Hebrew, where PDs can be interpreted as affected without actually being h-related to the verb, the analysis here offers an explanation for the crosslinguistically more general case of the PDC, where the PD’s role as both possessor and affectee needs to be syntactically encoded.
Ultrafast all-optical switches based on intersubband transitions for Tb/s operation

Theoretical and experimental results on ultra-fast all-optical switches based on intersubband transitions for Tb/s operation are presented. Designs for engineering intersubband transitions (ISBT) in GaN/AlN quantum wells near communication wavelengths (~1.55 μm) and for realizing all-optical switches requiring small pulse energies are discussed. Optimized designs show all-optical switching at Tb/s data rates with pulse energies as small as 200 fJ. Experimental realization of narrow line-width ISBT in GaN/AlN superlattices is also demonstrated.
Does party support help candidates win

Abstract The parties’ congressional campaign committees have made it their business to strategically provide contributions to candidate campaigns in order to help their candidates win. However, the effectiveness of these contributions in terms of increasing the competitiveness of party-sponsored candidates remains untested. Using contribution data from the U.S. Federal Election Commission in a series of mixed effects models as well as a matching analysis, the receipt of direct party contributions and coordinated support is shown to significantly improve the competitive position of challengers but not open seat candidates in races for the House. Further, independent expenditures by the parties do not significantly increase candidates’ competitiveness. The implications of these results for future party strategies are explored.
Educational capital: A proposed model and its relationship to academic and social behavior of students at risk

We examine and review the relationships between variables descriptive of cultural and social capital and the development of a new term: educational capital. While school personnel can use demographic variables to predict outcomes, such predictors do not lend themselves to implementing treatments or programs which may more directly mediate the effects of unequal cultural, social and human capital across the population. To increase and improve the education capital of its constituents, school can: set high expectations, match student skill level with curricular materials, provide home work hotlines, set up peer tutoring programs, develop partnerships with businesses and other community groups, match teacher characteristics with those of the student population, and reduce class size. Likewise, ways that parents might increase their children's educational capital include increasing attendance, taking part in parent-teacher discussions, helping with homework, participating in extracurricular activities, and transmitting aspirations in parent-child interactions.
Asymptomatic Profound Sinus Bradycardia (Heart Rate 45) in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Crizotinib

Crizotinib, a dual MET/ALK inhibitor, is now in ad- vanced clinical development for the treatment of anaplastic lym- phoma kinase (ALK)-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We have observed several patients who developed pro- found but asymptomatic sinus bradycardia (HR 45) during the course of crizotinib treatment. Herein, we describe the clinical characteristics of three separate patients enrolled in the A8081001 trial (NCT00585195) who developed asymptomatic profound sinus bradycardia with their accompanying electrocardiogram tracings.
A new class of block polymers

The reaction of industrially available “prepolymers,” containing one or several isocyanate groups per chain, with tert-butyl hydroperoxide yielded long-chain peroxycarbamates. These were found able to initiate the polymerization of a wide variety of vinyl monomers as well as dienes leading to a new class of block polymers of very interesting physical properties. Polyether and polyester “prepolymers” with one, two, or three isocyanate functionalities were linked chemically to polystyrene, polymethyl methacrylate, poly-n-butyl acrylate, polyarylonitrile, and polyisoprene. The formation of block polymers was proved by both physical and chemical methods. Their mechanical properties were illustrated by means of torsional modulus–temperature curves. The effect of varying composition and of a crosslinking agent on the elastic modulus was examined. Tentative reaction mechanisms were also presented.
A Cross-Cultural Examination of the Positivity Effect in Memory: United States vs. China:

Many studies conducted in the United States (U.S.) have documented a positivity effect in aging-a tendency for older adults to remember more positive than negative information in comparison to young adults. Despite this cognitive emotional benefit, U.S. adults still hold a more negative view of aging compared to adults in Asia. We hypothesized that these aging stereotypes may contribute to different patterns of age-related emotional memory processing in the two cultures. In the present study, we tested young and older adults in the U.S. and China on a View of Aging task and an emotional picture memory task. Chinese older adults hold a significantly more positive view of aging compared to all other groups of participants. Older adults in both countries demonstrated an age-related positivity effect, but Chinese older adults showed a trend in remembering fewer negative pictures than their American counterparts. These findings suggest that aging stereotypes might significantly influence older adults' cognitive abilities.
Predicting PACS Colt Sole Requirements From Radiologists' Reading Habits

In order to define and direct our research efforts toward the development of an effective and efficient PACS display console,we have begun a series of observational studies of radiologists' reading patterns of CT images displayed on film. Preliminary findings indicate that a three-stage process occurs. In each stage specific behaviors have been identified, and some preliminary quantitative aspects have been determined. Depending on the stage when they occur, individual behaviors may serve multiple and/or different functions. We suggest that while certain functions may be necessary, certain specific behaviors might better be replaced by other behaviors. It appears that the manner in which radiologists read hardcopy is, in part, due to habit and, in part, due to limitations imposed by the image display modality. These habits may not necessarily be efficient or necessary with an electronic display. Radiologists have accepted the constraints imposed on them by film, and developed reading habits to operate within these constraints. Guided by our preliminary data, we are developing our concepts of what are the essential requirements of a PACS display.
Simplified agarose overlay plaque assay for insect cell lines and insect nuclear polyhedrosis viruses

A 0.75% agarose overlay procedure is described which has the advantages of being easy to prepare and perform, and is applicable to several commonly used insect cell lines and viruses. In addition, plaque variants which do not produce polyhedra can be easily detected.
Bilingualism and inhibitory control influence statistical learning of novel word forms

We examined the influence of bilingual experience and inhibitory control on the ability to learn a novel language. Using a statistical learning paradigm, participants learned words in two novel languages that were based on the International Morse Code. First, participants listened to a continuous stream of words in a Morse code language to test their ability to segment words from continuous speech. Since Morse code does not overlap in form with natural languages, interference from known languages was minimized. Next, participants listened to another Morse code language composed of new words that conflicted with the first Morse code language. Interference in this second language was high due to conflict between languages and due to the presence of two colliding cues (compressed pauses between words and statistical regularities) that competed to define word boundaries. Results suggest that bilingual experience can improve word learning when interference from other languages is low, while inhibitory control ability can improve word learning when interference from other languages is high. We conclude that the ability to extract novel words from continuous speech is a skill that is affected both by linguistic factors, such as bilingual experience, and by cognitive abilities, such as inhibitory control.
Sequence and expression of the gene encoding the corrinoid/iron-sulfur protein from Clostridium thermoaceticum and reconstitution of the recombinant protein to full activity

The corrinoid/iron-sulfur protein (C/Fe-SP) from Clostridium thermoaceticum acts as a methyl group carrier in the anaerobic acetyl-CoA pathway of CO and CO2 fixation. Consisting of a small (approximately 33 kDa) and a large (approximately 55 kDa) subunit, the C/Fe-SP contains 1 mol of cobalt in a corrinoid cofactor and 1 mol of [4Fe-4S]2+/1+ cluster/mol of alpha beta dimer. Cobalt is the site of methylation, and the [4Fe-4S] center appears to serve an electron transfer function. The genes encoding both subunits have been cloned previously and are located within a gene cluster that includes other genes required for CO2 fixation by anaerobic bacteria. When the genes encoding the C/Fe-SP were expressed in Escherichia coli, the protein was found to be inactive. We report the amino acid sequences of the large and small subunits of the C/Fe-SP based on the DNA sequences of the cloned genes. The [4Fe-4S] cluster was found to be located in the large subunit. Although the primary structural lattice for cobamide binding resides in the small subunit, both subunits are required for formation of a stable cobamide-binding protein. Based on sequence comparisons with other [4Fe-4S]-containing proteins, 3 of the 4 cysteine residues that serve as ligands to the iron sites in the cluster have been located. The two subunits were independently overexpressed in E. coli to a level of 30-50% of cell protein; however, the resulting protein was inactive, lacked stoichiometric amounts of Fe-S cluster, and lacked cobamide. By combining the recombinant subunits, unfolding them with urea, and refolding in the presence of cobamide, iron, and inorganic sulfide, the resulting C/Fe-SP was found to contain stoichiometric amounts of cobamide and [4Fe-4S] cluster and had spectroscopic and enzymatic properties similar to those of the native protein. We expect that the methods developed here may be used for heterologous overexpression and reconstitution of other complex metalloenzymes. The C/Fe-SP was found to utilize with equal efficiency either vitamin B12 or the natural cofactor 5-methoxybenzimidazolylcobamide as a methyl carrier.
Negative inductors and capacitors for SPICE simulation

It is explained that to simulate circuits containing negative inductances and capacitances using general-purpose simulators like SPICE, the networks under consideration must be transformed into suitable SPICE-compatible circuits. Criteria that the portion of the network containing the negative elements should meet are given. The SPICE network realizing these elements, when L and C are independent of frequency and time, is shown. An example of a Brune network is given. >
Deficiency of Retinaldehyde Dehydrogenase 1 Induces BMP2 and Increases Bone Mass In Vivo

The effects of retinoids, the structural derivatives of vitamin A (retinol), on post-natal peak bone density acquisition and skeletal remodeling are complex and compartment specific. Emerging data indicates that retinoids, such as all trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and its precursor all trans retinaldehyde (Rald), exhibit distinct and divergent transcriptional effects in metabolism. Despite these observations, the role of enzymes that control retinoid metabolism in bone remains undefined. In this study, we examined the skeletal phenotype of mice deficient in retinaldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (Aldh1a1), the enzyme responsible for converting Rald to ATRA in adult animals. Bone densitometry and micro-computed tomography (mCT) demonstrated that Aldh1a1-deficient (Aldh1a1 2/2 ) female mice had higher trabecular and cortical bone mass compared to age and sex-matched control C57Bl/6 wild type (WT) mice at multiple time points. Histomorphometry confirmed increased cortical bone thickness and demonstrated significantly higher bone marrow adiposity in Aldh1a1 2/2 mice. In serum assays, Aldh1a1 2/2 mice also had higher serum IGF-1 levels. In vitro, primary Aldh1a1 2/2 mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) expressed significantly higher levels of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) and demonstrated enhanced osteoblastogenesis and adipogenesis versus WT MSCs. BMP2 was also expressed at higher levels in the femurs and tibias of Aldh1a1 2/2 mice with accompanying induction of BMP2-regulated responses, including expression of Runx2 and alkaline phosphatase, and Smad phosphorylation. In vitro, Rald, which accumulates in Aldh1a1 2/2 mice, potently induced BMP2 in WT MSCs in a retinoic acid receptor (RAR)-dependent manner, suggesting that Rald is involved in the BMP2 increases seen in Aldh1a1 deficiency in vivo. Collectively, these data implicate Aldh1a1 as a novel determinant of cortical bone density and marrow adiposity in the skeleton in vivo through modulation of BMP signaling.
High-magnetic-moment nanoparticles for biomedicine

Magnetic nanoparticles play an important role in biomedical applications, such as MR imaging, drug delivery and hyperthermia. Nanoparticles made of high-moment materials like Fe-Co and Fe have become active in the field due to superior performance. Protected by a biocompatible shell (Au/Ag/Si/C), high-moment nanoparticles can retain their magnetic property over a long time and disperse well. By using a physical gas condensation technique, such high-moment nanoparticles and core-shell structured nanoparticles can be made and used for biomedicine.
ScenIC: a strategy for inquiry-driven requirements determination

ScenIC is a requirements engineering method for evolving systems. Derived from the Inquiry Cycle model of requirements refinement, it uses goal refinement and scenario analysis as its primary methodological strategies. ScenIC rests on an analogy with human memory: semantic memory consists of generalizations about system properties; episodic memory consists of specific episodes and scenarios; and working memory consists of reminders about incomplete refinements. Method-specific reminders and resolution guidelines are activated by the state of episodic or semantic memory. The paper presents a summary of the ScenIC strategy and guidelines.
Simultaneous regulation of film thickness, surface roughness and porosity in a multiscale thin film growth process

This work focuses on simultaneous regulation of film thickness, surface roughness and porosity in a multiscale model of a thin film growth process using the inlet precursor concentration as the manipulated input. Specifically, a continuous macroscopic partial differential equation model is used to describe the dynamics of the gas phase. The thin film growth process is modeled via a microscopic kinetic Monte Carlo simulation model on a triangular lattice with vacancies and overhangs allowed to develop inside the film. Closed-form dynamic models of thin film surface profile and porosity are developed and used as the basis for the design of a model predictive control algorithm to simultaneously regulate film thickness, surface roughness and film porosity. Simulation results demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed modeling and control approach by applying the proposed controller to the multiscale model.
Cloning of the Duchenne/Becker Muscular Dystrophy Locus

The identification and molecular cloning of the Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) gene represents the first step in the long path toward a basic understanding and potential therapy of this human genetic disorder. One of the most interesting challenges to modern medicine is to understand and alter the course of the many genetic disorders. There are more than 3000 known genetic disease phenotypes, yet the vast majority are poorly understood at the level of the underlying biochemical disturbance. The techniques of molecular biology have changed the way these disorders are analyzed, and presumably the next decade will see an explosion of new understanding in the various ways that genotype affects phenotype. Duchenne muscular dystrophy thus serves as an example of the prospects to come, and this review can serve as a guide toward similar work with other genetic disorders.