cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Environmental risk factors and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): a case-control study of ALS in Michigan.

An interim report of a case-control study was conducted to explore the role of environmental factors in the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Sixty-six cases and 66 age- and gender-matched controls were recruited. Detailed information regarding residence history, occupational history, smoking, physical activity, and other factors was obtained using questionnaires. The association of ALS with potential risk factors, including smoking, physical activity and chemical exposure, was investigated using conditional logistic regression models. As compared to controls, a greater number of our randomly selected ALS patients reported exposure to fertilizers to treat private yards and gardens and occupational exposure to pesticides in the last 30 years than our randomly selected control cases. Smoking, occupational exposures to metals, dust/fibers/fumes/gas and radiation, and physical activity were not associated with ALS when comparing the randomly selected ALS patients to the control subjects. To further explore and confirm results, exposures over several time frames, including 0–10 and 10–30 years earlier, were considered, and analyses were stratified by age and gender. Pesticide and fertilizer exposure were both significantly associated with ALS in the randomly selected ALS patients. While study results need to be interpreted cautiously given the small sample size and the lack of direct exposure measures, these results suggest that environmental and particularly residential exposure factors warrant close attention in studies examining risk factors of ALS.
Reply to Comments of Bichsel et al. on ``Mean excitation energy for the stopping power of metallic aluminum''

Replies are made to comments made by Bichsel et al. on the choice of inner-shell correction, experimental energy-loss-data set used, neglect of range data, and the relevance of current optical oscillator-strength data to the metallic Al I value.
Residual stress and mechanical properties of boron-doped p+-silicon films

Abstract Annealing was used to relax non-uniform tensile stress in boron-doped p + -Si cantilever beams. The optimum annealing condition was determined. A for
Overview of the quality movement in the South Pacific islands

Presents a brief assessment of the quality movement in Fiji, which has the largest economy in the South Pacific islands. Relates the history of the beginning of the movement, then presents the means used by Fiji to introduce the quality movement in the country by the creation of the FNTC, the organization of the national quality convention and the establishment of the Fiji quality awards. Concludes by mentioning that Fiji is on the right track and that it also has a lead in the promotion of quality in the South Pacific Islands and in the developing worlds.
Effect of olfactory bulbectomy and enucleation on behavior of the mouse

Bilateral olfactory bulbectomy and enucleation were performed on two groups of mice. After recovery, these mice and their controls were studied and compared in reference to their social behavior, avoidance conditioning, and activity. The mice were then sacrificed and the levels of norepinephrine, serotonin, DOPA, dopamine, and epinephrine were measured on pooled whole brains. Although reactivity and certain behaviors of the mice were radically different, the amine levels were unchanged. The significance of this finding is discussed.
PROCESS DEPENDENCE AND THE SIVERS EFFECT IN INCLUSIVE AND SEMI-INCLUSIVE REACTIONS

We perform an analysis of the the spin asymmetry for single inclusive jet production in proton-proton collisions collected by AnDY experiment and the Sivers asymmetry data from semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering experiments. In particular, we consider the role color gauge invariance plays in determining the process-dependence of the Sivers effect. We find that after carefully taking into account the initial-state and final-state interactions between the active parton and the remnant of the polarized hadron, the calculated jet spin asymmetry based on the Sivers functions extracted from HERMES and COMPASS experiments is consistent with the AnDY experimental data. This provides a first indication for the process-dependence of the Sivers effect in different processes. We also make predictions for both direct photon and Drell-Yan spin asymmetry, to further test the process-dependence of the Sivers effect in future experiments.
Modeling effects-based operations in support of war games

The problem of planning, executing and assessing Effects-Based Operations (EBO) requires the synthesis of a number of modeling approaches. A prototype system to assist in developing Courses of Action (COAs) for Effects-Based operations and evaluating them in terms of the probability of achieving the desired effects has been developed and is called CAESAR II/EB. Two of the key components of the system are: (a) an Influence net modeler such as the Campaign Assessment Tool (CAT) developed at AFRL/IF, and (b) an executable model generator and simulator based on the software implementation of Colored Petri nets called Design/CPN. The executable model, names COA/EB, is used to simulate the COAs and collect data on Measures of Performance (MOPs). One particular output is the probability of achieving the desired affect as a function of time. Probability profiles can be compared to determine the more effective COAs. This version of CAESAR II/EB was used successfully in August 2000 at the Naval War College in the war game Global 2000. Experiences with building and using the models both prior to the war game and during the war game to answer tropical questions as they arose are described.
Investigation of Copper Oxide Coatings for Solar Selective Applications

Abstract Copper was oxidized using thermal, chemical and electrochemical treatments in an attempt to obtain a solar selective surface with a reasonable thermal stability. Microstructural analyses, using SEM and X-ray diffraction, were made to investigate the influence of heat treatment on the coatings. A non-linear programming technique was used to optimize the coating conditions using as-plated and heat-treated (10 h at 180°C) data. Since a marked difference between the as-plated and the heat-treated optima was observed, a systematic thermal stability study of the copper oxide at low temperatures (below 200°C) was conducted. The stability of the chemical oxidizing solution was also investigated. As-plated absorptances of 0.97 at emittances of 0.2 were obtained in the optimized coatings. After thermal treatment, these absorptances and emittances were substantially reduced ( α = 0.89, ϵ = 0.10 ). This reduction at higher temperatures is attributed to a chemical change in the coating composition.
Massless Electrodynamics on the 5-Dimensional Unit Hypersphere: An Amplitude-Integral Formulation

We further develop the O(5)-covariant formulation of massless quantum electrodynamics which was introduced in an earlier paper. We discuss the group theory of the free photon and electron propagators, and develop a simple amplitude-integral form for the interlacing operator which applies radiative corrections to closed fermion loops. Instead of involving path integrals defined by a limiting process, the amplitude integral involves an infinite product of individually well-defined ordinary integrals over coefficients appearing in the hyperspherical harmonic expansion of an external electromagnetic field ${A}_{a}$. We use the amplitude integral to study the analyticity properties in coupling constant $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ of single fermion loops, in a modified quantum electrodynamics in which the short-distance singularity of the photon propagator is cut off. In this model we find that $\ensuremath{\alpha}=0$ is not a regular point, and that the single fermion loops cannot develop an infinite-order zero as $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ approaches a positive ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{0}$ from below.
Effect of Chemical and Microbial Amendment on Phosphorus Runoff from Composted Poultry Litter

Environmental impacts of composting poultry litter with chemical amendments at the field scale have not been well quantified. The objectives of this study were to measure (i) P runoff and (ii) forage yield and N uptake from small plots fertilized with composted and fresh poultry litter. Two composting studies, aerated using mechanical turning, were conducted in consecutive years. Composted litter was collected at the completion of each study for use in runoff studies. Treatments in runoff studies included an unfertilized control, fresh (uncomposted) poultry litter, and litter composted with no amendment, H3PO4, alum, or a microbial mixture. An additional treatment, litter composted with alum plus the microbial mixture, was evaluated during the first year. Fertilizer treatments were applied at rates equivalent to 8.96 Mg ha 21 and rainfall simulators were used to produce a 5c m h 21 storm event. Composted poultry litter, regardless of treatment, had higher total P concentrations than fresh poultry litter. Composting poultry litter resulted in reductions of N/P ratios by as much as 51%. Soluble reactive P concentrations were lowest in alumtreated compost, which reduced soluble P concentrations in runoff water by as much as 84%. Forage yields and N uptake were greatest from plots fertilized with fresh poultry litter. Composting poultry litter without the addition of C sources can increase P concentrations in the end product and surface runoff. This study also indicated that increased rates of composted poultry litter would be required to meet equivalent N rates supplied by fresh poultry litter.
Over 20-year follow-up of Miura reconstruction of cleft hand

Several techniques have been described for cleft hand closure and web space reconstruction in patients with central deficiency; however, long-term documentation of results is rare. We present a 23-year follow-up of a patient who underwent the Miura procedure for a Manske type IIb cleft hand exhibiting long-term aesthetic and functional success. In addition, early skin flap necrosis and late web space contracture, which have been seen after the Snow-Littler procedure, did not occur in this case.
Asymptotic behavior of the Sudakov form factor in quantum chromodynamics

In this paper we give an algorithm to compute the asymptotic behavior of the on-shell quark form factor in the limit of large momentum transfer (Sudakov form factor) in Abelian and non-Abelian gauge theories. We ignore terms which are suppressed by a power of momentum transfer, but keep all nonleading logarithms of the momentum transfer and all powers of the coupling constant.
The altitude of snow growth by riming and vapor deposition in mixed-phase orographic clouds

Abstract Oxygen isotopic ratios (δ18O) and sulfate concentrations were measured in cloud water and snow collected at Storm Peak Laboratory (SPL) during winter, 2007. The rimed mass fraction (RMF) was estimated as the ratio of sulfate concentration in snow to that in cloud water. A sharp increase in the RMF at mean droplet diameters above 10 μm confirmed the expected relationship between riming efficiency and cloud droplet size. The mass-weighted altitude of snow formation was inferred from δ18O in cloud water and snow and did not exceed 300 m above SPL. The mass-weighted altitude of snow growth by vapor deposition alone was no higher than 900 m above SPL. The results suggest that snow crystals nucleated under water-sub-saturated conditions at higher elevations attained a significant fraction of their water content as they grew by riming and vapor deposition in transit through the low-level orographic cloud near the mountain crest. This approach provides a direct means of validating model simulations of snow growth processes in cold mountain clouds.
Utility of a Rapid Fecal Latex Agglutination Test Detecting the Neutrophil Protein, Lactoferrin, for Diagnosing Inflammatory Causes of Chronic Diarrhea

Utility of a Rapid Fecal Latex Agglutination Test Detecting the Neutrophil Protein, Lactoferrin, for Diagnosing Inflammatory Causes of Chronic Diarrhea
Activation and dissociation of adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate-dependent and guanosine 3′,5′-monophosphate-dependent protein kinases by various cyclic nucleotide analogs

Abstract The effects of various analogs of adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cyclic AMP), guanosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cyclic GMP), and inosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cyclic IMP) in stimulating and dissociating cyclic AMP-dependent and cyclic GMP-dependent classes of protein kinases were examined. With the possible exceptions of the dibutyryl derivative of cyclic GMP and the cyclothiophosphate analog of cyclic AMP, all compounds tested were capable of maximally stimulating both classes of protein kinases, and some analogs were more reactive than the parent compounds. The effectiveness of these compounds in activating these protein kinases paralleled their ability to cause the dissociation of the enzymes into subunits. Some compounds, notably the 8-thio and 8-methylthio analogs of cyclic AMP, which were at least as reactive as cyclic AMP in dissociating and stimulating the cyclic AMP-dependent enzyme, did not compete, but unexpectedly cooperatively enhanced the binding of the radioactive cyclic AMP to this enzyme, suggesting that these sulfur-containing analogs may interact with specific sites on the enzyme different from cyclic AMP. Many of the cyclic AMP analogs, like cyclic GMP, supported the stimulatory action of the protein kinase modulator on arginine-rich histone phosphorylation catalyzed by cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase. The modulator, however, inhibited the cyclic AMP-dependent class of protein kinase activated by any of the cyclic nucleotides and analogs under the same assay conditions.
Identification of non-lipid LPA3 antagonists by virtual screening.

In the present study, we utilized virtual screening to identify LPA3 antagonists. We have developed a three point structure-based pharmacophore model based on known LPA3 antagonists. This model was used to mine the NCI database. Docking, pharmacophore development, and database mining produced new, non-lipid leads. Experimental testing of seven computationally-selected pharmacophore hits produced one potentiator and three antagonists, one of which displays both LPA3 selectivity and nanomolar potency. Similarity searching in the ChemBridge database using the most promising lead as the search target produced five additional LPA3 antagonists and a potent dual LPA1&2 antagonist.
Combined naloxone and fluoxetine on deprivation-induced binge eating of palatable foods in rats.

Abstract Opioid antagonism and serotonergic stimulation is associated with macronutrient-specific hypophagia in animals. In the present study we evaluated their systemic effect alone, and in combination, at various doses, on the intake of sweet carbohydrate-rich and sweet fat-rich foods, tastes, and nutrients that are typical of binge-food items. Low-dose (1 mg/kg) naloxone, alone, preferentially suppressed fat-rich intake while low-dose (2.5 mg/kg) fluoxetine, alone, preferentially suppressed carbohydrate-rich intake. Each drug at these doses, combined with various doses of the other (2.5–10 mg/kg fluoxetine; 0.01-1 mg/kg naloxone) additively suppressed both kinds of the sweet foods. Naloxone and fluoxetine have therapeutic potential in treating binge-eating disorders. This animal study suggests what shortcomings and benefits might be expected when combining these two agents.
Strain and temperature accelerated relaxation in polycarbonate

The nonlinear viscoelastic behavior of glassy polymers and its relationship to ductile yielding is studied by single- and double-step stress relaxation experiments. In the latter case a small stress relaxation step is superimposed on a specimen at an elevated state of temperature or strain. The results show that the changes in the relaxation behaviors in the two cases closely parallel each other. The relaxation behavior at strains near yield closely approximates that at low strain but near Tg. The small strain relaxation response can be described well by a Kohlrausch-Williams-Watts (KWW) type function. The interpretation of these data in terms of a coupling model which includes the KWW form is discussed.
Modification of the Volunteer Functions Inventory for application in youth sports

The purpose of this study was to modify the Volunteer Functions Inventory (VFI) to be specifically applicable to assess volunteer motivation in youth sport settings. Based on a comprehensive review of literature, the VFI items were first modified to reflect the context of youth sports. Testing of measurement properties was accomplished through two studies. In Study One, the modified VFI was administered to volunteers (N = 515) of a nationwide youth soccer organization. Data were randomly split into two-halves: one for exploratory factor analysis (EFA) with principal-axis extraction and oblique rotation, and the other for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with maximum likelihood estimation. In the EFA, six factors emerged which were consistent with the dimensions of the VFI; however, 12 items were eliminated due to double loading or misspecification, resulting in 18 items being retained. The CFA revealed that the data fit the 6-factor model well. In Study Two, the resolved scale was re-validated through a sample of 262 volunteers of local youth sport leagues. Overall, findings of these two studies suggest that the modified VFI for youth sports is a valid and reliable scale. This scale may be adopted to study various volunteer motivation issues associated with youth sport organizations and events. Keywords: Volunteer; Youth sports; Motivation; Measurement; Sport management
The molecular structure of the benzilic acid rearrangement product of 3α, 17β-diacetoxy-11-hydroxy-12-oxo-5β-androst-9(11)-ene

Die Struktur desp-Brombenzoates des Benzilsaureumlagerungsproduktes von 3α, 17β-Diacetoxy-11-hydroxy-12-oxo-5β-Δ9(11)-androsten wurde durch dreidimensionale Rontgenstrukturanalyse eines Einkristalls als 3-p-Brombenzoat des 11β-Carboxy-3α, 11α, 17β-trihydroxy-13α-C-nor-5β-androstan 11a, 17-Laktons erkannt.
Hydrogen?Deuterium Exchange in Photolyzed Methane?Water Ices

Previous work has concluded that H-D exchange occurs readily in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons frozen in deuterated water (D2O) irradiated with ultraviolet light. Here, we examine H-D exchange in methane-water ices following exposure to ultraviolet radiation and analyze the products formed as a result. We find that H-D exchange also occurs in methane-water ices by means of ultraviolet photolysis. Exchange proceeds through a radical mechanism that implies that almost all organic species will undergo significant H-D exchange with the matrix in water ices exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Given sufficient energetic processing of the ice, the H/D ratio of an ice matrix may be transferred to the organic species in the ice.
Modeling of Fiber Bragg Grating Sensor Response Due to Combined Effects

This article presents a finite element formulation for the calculation of the spectral response of a fiber Bragg grating sensor embedded in a host material system. The formulation is based on a 3D element for which the propagation constant is calculated from the optical and geometric properties in the plane perpendicular to light propagation, after which the optical transfer matrix is calculated. The effects of axial strain, transverse strain, fiber curvature and shear loading are implemented into the formulation. This novel approach permits the prediction of the sensor response when the sensor is embedded in a complicated material system for which analytical or approximative solutions do not accurately predict the strain state in the sensor. A numerical example of a relatively simple sensor geometry is presented to verify the formulation. The integration of the proposed sensor finite element formulation into a classical structural mechanics finite element program to perform the complete analysis is also discussed.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Triply-convergent syntheses of two homochiral arene-fused prostacyclin analogs related to U68,215☆

Abstract The syntheses of arene-fused prostacyclin analogs 2 and 3 are described. Rapid assembly of the tricyclic skeleton is achieved in a triply-convergent manner from oxazoline-bearing homocuprate 6b , homochiral ammonium salt 7 and homochiral propargyl acetylide 12 . Compound 2 was a potent inhibitor of collagen-induced platelet aggregation having an IC50 = 2.9nM; while 3 exhibited an IC50 = 52nM.
Women's negotiation of cunnilingus in college hookups and relationships.

Using in-depth interviews with 43 college women who were, on average, 21 years old (SD = 0.79), the authors explored women's attitudes toward and experiences of cunnilingus. The authors found that cunnilingus posed interactional challenges for women, but that these varied by relationship context. Drawing on scripting theory, the authors argue that the sexual scripts available to contemporary American college students assume cunnilingus in relationships, but not in hookups, where the incorporation of the practice is more contested. For individual women, tension emerged when their preferences for cunnilingus contradicted the sexual script of the relationship context. Women who desired cunnilingus in hookups had to be assertive to get it, whereas those who did not want cunnilingus in hookups were relieved that it was not expected. The taken-for-granted nature of cunnilingus in relationships was a source of pleasure for women who enjoyed it and of difficulty for women who wished to avoid it. In relationships,...
Equilibrium structure of hydrogen-bonded polymer blends

Deuterium-labeled polystyrene modified by random distributions of the comonomer p-(1,1,1,3,3,3-hexaflouro-2-hydroxyisopropyl)-α-methyl-styrene [DPS(OH)] has been blended with poly(butyl methacrylate) (PBMA) and studied with small-angle neutron scattering (SANS). Miscibility is induced via hydrogen bonding between the DPS(OH) hydroxyl group and PBMA carbonyl groups. The data suggest that the nature of the miscible-phase structure in these blends differs from that of the usual homopolymer blends at small scattering angles, which we attribute to the short-range site specific nature of the hydrogen bond interaction. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci B: Polym Phys 36: 2745–2750, 1998
Neurological status and psychological functioning.

To match psychological test results and reports with neurological status, two studies involving different patient samples were conducted. Intellectual functioning, visual reproduction, speed, and ability to abstract were compared for two groups of neurological and control patients from a city hospital. In this sample, a “blind” global matching of psychological test results and neurological status was correct 65% of the time. With similar information for patients from a private psychiatric hospital, the same matching was 66% correct. Significant relationships between neurological status and psychological test results are discussed.
Molecular Analysis of the X-Linked Hyper IgM Syndrome: Heterogeneity of Clinical Expression and Effect of CD40 Ligand Deficiency on Immune Function.♦ 45

X-linked hyper IgM (HIGMX-1) is a rare inherited immune deficiency disease resulting from a defect in the gene for CD40 ligand (CD40L). Patients exhibit an heterogenous phenotype with normal or elevated IgM, recurrent bacterial infections with or without opportunistic infections, autoimmune disease, or lymphoproliferative disease. Data from CD40 or CD40L gene-targetted mice suggests that, in addition to the defect in humoral immunity, CD40L/CD40 interaction is necessary for T cell priming. Unlike gene-targetted mice, HIGMX-1 patients express mutated mRNA, and heterogeneity of the disease may partly result from differences in the expressed protein. We have investigated two patients with HIGMX-1 who have a deletion of the third exon of CD40L. Analysis of the CD40L genomic DNA showed that the deletion in the third exon resulted from different genomic mutations. The first patient, an 8 year old boy of Chinese origin, had a deletion of the first nucleotide in the donor site of exon 3 while the second patient, a 23 year old boy of Italian origin, had a point mutation (a->g) at the -2 position in the acceptor site of exon 3. The patients' clinical disease differs in levels of IgM and IgA and in the development of opportunistic infections. The differences in clinical phenotype may be related to differences in environmental exposure, or may, in part result from differences in the effect of the differing genomic mutations on mRNA splicing and skipping of the third exon. Next, we examined the effect of the CD40L deficiency on T cell priming in the second patient. In contrast to CD40L-deficient mice, this patient demonstrated reactivity against recall antigens by T cell proliferation in-vitro and by positive delayed-type hypersensitivity skin testing in-vivo. Also, the patient's circulating T cells contained a primed population of CD4+ T cells as determined by CD45RO expression; and in his mother, an obligate carrier of HIGMX-1, only 47% of the CD4+/CD45RO+ T cells expressed CD40L upon stimulation compared to 80% of control CD4+/CD45RO+ T cells indicating that normal CD40L did not provide an advantage for T cell priming. These results suggest that at least some patients with HIGMX-1 have no defect in T cell priming.
Discrete Membranous Subaortic Stenosis: Improved Results After Resection and Myectomy

Abstract Background . Despite an adequate resection, a significant recurrence rate is encountered in patients undergoing operation for discrete membranous subaortic stenosis. The fibrous membrane and hypertrophied myocardium commonly are removed, but because of the involved risks, the resection may be inadequate and contribute to the recurrence rate. Methods . A review of the cases of 23 patients undergoing operation for discrete membranous subaortic stenosis from 1980 to 1994 was undertaken. Fourteen patients (61%) had coexisting cardiac lesions, all of which were concomitantly repaired. Results . The left ventricle–aorta gradient decreased from a preoperative mean of 63.39 ± 7.63 mm Hg to 15.17 ± 3.06 mm Hg postoperatively ( p Conclusions . Our results suggest that aggressive myectomy in concert with membrane resection constitutes safe treatment for discrete membranous subaortic stenosis and is associated with low rates of endocarditis, recurrence, and progression of aortic insufficiency.
Design features of implants for direct skeletal attachment of limb prostheses

In direct skeletal attachment (DSA) of limb prostheses, a construct is implanted into an amputee's residuum bone and protrudes out of the residuum's skin. This technology represents an alternative to traditional suspension of prostheses via various socket systems, with clear indications when the sockets cannot be properly fitted. Contemporary DSA was invented in the 1990s, and several implant systems have been introduced since then. The current review is intended to compare the design features of implants for DSA whose use in humans or in animal studies has been reported in the literature.
Neo‐Pragmatist (Practice‐Based) Theories of Meaning

In recent years, several systematic theories of linguistic meaning have been offered that give pride of place to linguistic practice, or the process of linguistic communication. Often these theories are referred to as neo-pragmatist or new pragmatist; I call them ‘practice-based’. According to practice-based theories of meaning, the process of linguistic communication is somehow constitutive of, or otherwise essential for the existence of, propositional linguistic meaning. Moreover, these theories disavow, or downplay, the semantic importance of inflationary notions of representation. I introduce the basic ideas and motives behind some practice-based theories of meaning, and offer some reasons why an eliminativist, non-quietist, epistemic practice-based approach to meaning that 1) disavows any explanatory role for the linguistic community as such, 2) prioritizes sentence meaning over word meaning, and 3) may, in the end, be naturalistic, should be favored over its practice-based competitors.
Federal Aid and Economic Development in Nonmetropolitan Communities: The UDAG Program

In 1977 Congress enacted the Urban Development Action Grant (UDAG) program to help distressed communities develop economically. This article draws from case studies of ten nonmetropolitan communities with Action Grants. Itfocuses on thefactors that affect the completion and benefits of projects, particularly relations with private developers and local management capacity. The studies show that the UDAG program has been flexible in accommodating differences in economic development needs as perceived locally. However, many of the projects have not produced the numbers of jobs originally proposed. Several communities encountered problems with private developers who either abandoned the projects or failed to produce expected results. Smaller communities in the sample tended to lack grantsmanship, management, and legal resources.
Trypanosoma brucei: improved detection of nuclear transcripts reveals a genomic position effect on nuclearly accumulating NEO RNAs visualized in stably transformed cells.

Kohler, S. 1999. Trypanosoma brucei: Improved detection of nuclear transcripts reveals a genomic position effect on nuclearly accumulating NEO RNAs visualized in stably transformed cells. Experimental Parasitology 92, 249-262. An improved fluorescent in situ hybridization method was used to visualize accumulations of nuclear RNA in procyclic Trypanosoma brucei that were stably transformed with a bacterial gene encoding neomycin phosphotransferase (NEO). In both wild-type trypanosomes and NEO transformants, nuclear accumulations of endogenous RRNAs were restricted to a ring-shaped subcompartment (nucleolus) of the nucleus. A nucleolar localization was also illuminated for NEO RNAs of trypanosomal transformants mediating their NEO transcription from the endogenous RRNA gene cluster of the T. brucei genome. In contrast, stably transformed trypanosomes generating their NEO transcripts from protein-coding areas of the T. brucei genome displayed a single dot-like accumulation of NEO transcripts, which was located in close proximity to the trypanosomal nucleolus. This pattern was observed in transformants employing either the promoter region of a protein-coding PARP transcription unit or the trypanosomal RRNA promoter for NEO transcription. Apparently, the exact location of nuclearly accumulating NEO transcripts varied among different trypanosomal transformants and relied explicitly on the genomic position of the NEO gene. These results imply that T. brucei possesses distinctive pathways for its nuclear RNA metabolism, which is consistent with a spatio-functional organization of the parasite's nucleus.
Identifying a Structural Basis for Plexin A3 Homomeric Interactions

Plexins are large transmembrane receptors known to interact with neuropilin 2 co-receptors and semaphorin ligands to regulate neuronal development. These receptors and ligands have recently been implicated in assisting cancer metastasis. While it is understood that plexin signaling occurs via Ras GTPase-activating proteins (Ras GAPs) and semaphorin binding occurs extracellularly, little is understood about the role of the transmembrane (TM) and cytosolic juxtamembrane (CYTO) regions in signaling and oligomerization. In this study, we focus on plexin A3 (PlA3) and show that individual amino acids in the TM and CYTO regions influence homooligomerization and, subsequently, function. We propose a model for the PlA3 oligomerization interface and use site-directed mutagenesis and the AraTM method to identify the role of individual amino acids in the TM-CYTO region that influence this oligomerization. Bioluminescent resonance energy transfer was used to confirm the impact of select amino acids on oligomerization in a mammalian cell membrane with a truncated receptor.
Topography of the Blake Plateau

Abstract The topography in the area of the Blake Plateau (24°–34°N, 71°–81°W) has been compiled from original data of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the Lamont Geological Observatory. The flat surface of the Plateau, about 850 m deep, is bounded on the east by the Blake Escarpment and the Blake-Bahama Basin. The Blake Outer Ridge is a steep-crested accumulation of sediment trending southeast from the northern end of the Blake Plateau. The distribution of present day and ancient carbonate sediments and the active role of currents, especially the Gulf Stream, helps to explain the physiography of the area.
Predicting Data Dependences for Slice Inspection Prioritization

Data dependences play a central role in program debugging and comprehension. They serve as building blocks for program slicing and statistical fault localization, among other debugging approaches. Unfortunately, static analysis reports many data dependences that, in reality, are infeasible or unlikely to occur at runtime. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the extensive use of pointers and object-oriented features in modern software. Dynamic analysis, in contrast, reports only data dependences that occur in an execution but misses all other dependences that can occur in the program. To tackle the imprecision of data-dependence analysis, we present a novel static analysis that predicts the likelihood of occurrence of data dependences. Although it is hard to predict execution frequencies accurately, our preliminary results suggest that our analysis can distinguish the data dependences most likely to occur from those less likely to occur, which helps engineers prioritize their inspection of dependences in slices. These are promising results that encourage further research.
Trends in health care expenditures, utilization, and health status among US adults with spine problems, 1997-2006.

Study design Analysis of nationally representative survey data for spine-related health care expenditures, utilization and self-reported health status. Objective To study trends from 1997 to 2006 in per-user expenditures for spine-related inpatient, outpatient, pharmacy, and emergency services; and to compare these trends to changes in health status. Summary of background data Although prior work has shown overall spine-related expenditures accounted for $86 billion in 2005, increasing 65% since 1997, the study did not report per-user expenditures. Understanding population-level per-user expenditure for specific services relative to changes in the health status may help assess the value of these services. Methods We analyzed data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, a multistage survey sample designed to produce unbiased national estimates of health care utilization and expenditure. Spine-related hospitalizations, outpatient visits, prescription medications and emergency department visits were identified using ICD-9-CM diagnosis codes. Regression analyses controlling for age, sex, comorbidity, and time (years) were used to examine trends from 1997 to 2006 in inflation-adjusted per-user expenditures, and utilization, and self-reported health status. Results An average of 1774 respondents with spine problems was surveyed per year; the proportion suggested an increase in the number of people who sought treatment for spine problems in the United States from 14.8 million in 1997 to 21.9 million in 2006. From 1997 to 2006, the mean adjusted per-user expenditures were the largest component of increasing total costs for inpatient hospitalizations, prescription medications, andemergency department visits, increasing 37% (from $13,040 in 1997 to $17,909 in 2006), 139% (from $166 to $397), and 84% (from $81 to $149), respectively. A 49% increase in the number of patients seeking spine-related care (from 12.2 million in 1997 to 18.2 million in 2006) was the largest contributing factor to increased outpatient expenditures. Population measures of mental health and work, social, and physical limitations worsened over time among people with spine problems. Conclusion Expenditure increases for spine-related inpatient, prescription, and emergency services were primarily the result of increasing per-user expenditures, while those related to outpatient visits were primarily due to an increase in the number of users of ambulatory services.
Inhibition of stretch-activated ion channels on endothelial cells disrupts nitric oxide-mediated arterial outward remodeling

Outward arterial remodeling is a physiological response to accommodate chronically elevated blood flow and requires endothelial cells (ECs) and expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). ECs may sense elevated flow via stretch-activated ion channels (SACs). We evaluated the role of SACs in regulation of flow-induced arterial expansion and eNOS expression by ECs. A high-flow environment was created in the common carotid arteries (CCAs) of mice via contralateral common carotid artery (CCA) ligation. Either streptomycin for SAC blockade or saline for placebo was delivered to the mice. CCAs were harvested for morphometric analysis 7 days post procedure. Cultured ECs were exposed to flow with wall shear stresses (WSSs) of 1.5–10 Pa for 24 h in presence or absence of streptomycin. Immunofluorescent staining was used for eNOS quantification. In vivo, CCA expansion in streptomycin-treated mice (n = 7) was significantly less than in the placebo-treated group (n = 8) (p = 0.015). In vitro, streptomycin exposure significantly inhibited eNOS expression at WSS >2.5 Pa (p = 0.001) while not affecting eNOS expression at baseline WSS (1.5–2.5 Pa). Blockade of SACs with streptomycin impairs outward arterial remodeling and eNOS expression at high WSSs. Activation of SACs under elevated WSS may contribute to vessel expansion by upregulating eNOS in ECs.
“Those people” and troubles talk

Abstract Community has developed as an increasingly important research topic in gerontology. As we search for the ever elusive sense of community and social integration among the aged, gerontologists have strangely left aside, for the most part, the interactional formation of community as a phenomenon. How do elders actually achieve this thing in their daily lives? By what interactional mechanisms is it constructed? Using data gathered from an ethnography of a senior public housing complex, I argue that in this particular neighborhood, community is accomplished by residents through “troubles talk.” An important component of this shared talk are social types indigenous to the complex. The act of social typing allows the residents to organize, categorize, and classify each other, providing recognizable and commonly held knowledge of each other, a vital component of community.
Metalorganic chemical vapor deposition of aluminum oxide on Si: Evidence of interface SiO2 formation

Thin films of aluminum oxide were deposited on H-passivated Si(100) substrate using trimethylaluminum and oxygen at 0.5 Torr and 300 °C. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analyses of these films showed no aluminum silicate phase at the film–substrate interface. The O/Al ratio in the deposited film was found to be higher than that in stoichiometric Al2O3. On annealing the as-deposited samples in Ar at 900 °C, an absorption peak due to the transverse optical phonon for the Si–O–Si stretching mode appeared in the FTIR spectra. A combination of Z-contrast imaging and electron energy-loss spectroscopy in the scanning transmission electron microscope confirmed that the annealed samples developed a layer of silicon dioxide at the aluminum oxide–Si interface. Our results suggest that excess oxygen present in the deposited film reacts with the underlying Si substrate and forms silicon oxide.
O dicionário bilíngüe e o ensino de espanhol como língua estrangeira

Based on examples taken from the monolingual lexicography of Spanish and bilingual dictionaries of the pair of languages Spanish/German, this article aims at highlighting the specific strengths and advantages of bilingual dictionaries in the foreign language learning context, as well as at analyzing the intrinsic limitations of this type of reference-books, together with common, but avoidable, shortcomings of many bilingual dictionaries, and to suggest successful ways of using bilingual dictionaries in foreign language teaching.
Studies on the electron transport system. IX. Fragmentation of DPNH oxidase.

Abstract DPNH oxidase has been fragmented with mixtures of chocolate, ammonium sulfate and trypsin into a red particle with DPNH cytochrome c reductase activity (antimycin sensitive) and a green particle with cytochrome oxidase activity. This fragmentation probably accounts for the opening phenomenon in which the DPNH-oxidase activity of DPNH oxidase is abolished by exposure to deoxycholate, and two new activities emerge, viz . DPNH-cytochrome c reductase activity and ferrocytochrome c oxidase activity.
Characterization of ceramic hydrogen separation membranes with varying nickel concentrations

Abstract Ceramic hydrogen separation membranes in the stoichiometric form BaCe0.8Y0.2O3, doped with various concentrations of nickel, were characterized by utilizing X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and atomic-force microscopy (AFM). Characterization was performed at room temperature, 550°C and 650°C, and after exposure to hydrogen. Migration of nickel to the surface and changes in both elemental composition and oxidation states were observed at elevated temperatures. The concentration of nickel significantly affects surface morphology and roughness.
Infrared optical properties of eight different Schott glasses

The optical properties of glasses are traditionally characterized out to 1 micron in most catalogs, yet, the useful spectral range can extend out to as far as 4 microns. For this reason, the temperature and frequency dependent infrared properties of the Schott glasses Suprasil 300, Ultran 20, SK4, SF6, F2, BK7, UBK7 and KzFSN4 have been measured. This is accomplished by broadband transmittance and reflectance measurements as a function of temperature from room temperature up to 600 degree(s)C. The infrared absorption edge of these glasses is analyzed and modeled with a theoretical multiphoton model and oscillator model. The refractive index of these glasses in the infrared region is estimated from the measurements and a Sellmeier model extending into the infrared is now obtained.
Integrin-associated protein (CD47): an unusual activator of G protein signaling

Integrin-associated protein (IAP), also known as CD47, was first discovered as a protein physically and functionally associated with the integrin αvβ3 but now is known to associate with additional integrins, such as α2β1 and αIIbβ3, and also to have ligands of its own. This very unusual member of the immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily includes a single Ig domain, followed by a very hydrophobic region that spans the membrane five times, and a short cytoplasmic tail that demonstrates tissue-specific expression of four alternatively spliced isoforms. IAP binds both the large plasma and ECM glycoprotein thrombospondin (TSP) and a cell-based ligand, SIRPα, independent of its association with integrins. Ligation of the integrin/IAP complex on a variety of cells can induce adhesion, chemotaxis, spreading, secretion, and other sequelae of cell activation. The work by Brittain et al., reported in this issue of the JCI (1), suggests that IAP-mediated activation may extend to circulating reticulocytes, cells not normally thought to respond to environmental cues by changing adhesive behavior. IAP may therefore play an important role in sickle-cell disease, in which large numbers of reticulocytes circulate and can adhere within small blood vessels. This work not only has implications for the pathophysiology and treatment of sickle cell anemia, but also raises important questions about the mechanisms of IAP signal transduction. The IAP/integrin complex initiates signaling by an unusual mechanism. Ligand engagement of the integrin/IAP complex can activate heterotrimeric G protein signal transduction (2). To date, the only Gα subunit identified that is associated with this membrane complex is Gαi, and indeed, most of the identified functions of the complex are sensitive to pertussis toxin, which targets this subunit.
An Adaptive Approach to Vision-based Formation Control

Presented at the AIAA Guidance, Navigation, and Control Conference and Exhibit 11-14 August 2003, Austin, Texas.
InP-based waveguide photodiodes heterogeneously integrated on silicon-on-insulator for photonic microwave generation.

High-linearity modified uni-traveling carrier photodiodes on silicon-on-insulator with low AM-to-PM conversion factor are demonstrated. The devices deliver more than 2.5 dBm RF output power up to 40 GHz and have an output third order intercept point of 30 dBm at 20 GHz. Photodiode arrays exceed a saturation current-bandwidth-product of 630 mA·GHz and reach unsaturated RF output power levels of 10 dBm at 20 GHz.
A plane stress finite element method for the prediction of rubber fracture

The tearing energy of rubber vulcanizates is calculated by the virtual crack extension method using isoparametric finite elements, which are formulated based on a variation of geometry mapping. The large strain eight-node plane-stress isoparametric finite element is formulated based on total Lagrangian description and incremental formulation. The critical tearing energy is used as the fracture criterion to predict the critical values of stress or stretch for crack growth. To illustrate the accuracy and value of the present formulation and computer code, examples of a single edge crack specimen and a pure shear crack specimen, which are commonly used in fatigue and fracture studies of rubber, were studied. The results obtained are compared with alternative solutions and experimental data whenever available, and good agreement was found.
Use of the Extraordinary Infrared Transmission of Metallic Subwavelength Arrays To Study the Catalyzed Reaction of Methanol to Formaldehyde on Copper Oxide

Ordered arrays of subwavelength holes in thin metallic films have been produced that exhibit extraordinary transmission resonances throughout the infrared including the range of wavelengths that excite fundamental molecular vibrations. This phenomenon is attributed to the excitation of surface plasmons which propagate along the surface and tunnel through the holes without being scattered out of an incident beam. Commercial nickel mesh has been coated with copper to reduce the hole size enhancing surface plasmon lifetimes (narrowing resonances) and enabling the study of catalytic processes on the Cu surface. The copper oxide catalyzed reaction of methanol has been studied by recording enhanced zero-order FTIR transmission spectra of the copper mesh activated with a drop of water and then exposed to a drop of methanol. Transformation of CH3OH(ads) to CH3O(ads) and then to the product CH2O(ads) is observed at room temperature and in air with a very simple procedure. The spectrum of adsorbed formaldehyde is a...
Usability testing for web redesign: a UCLA case study

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the processes the UCLA Library Website Redesign Team used to develop a new library website responsive to the needs of the broad population of UCLA Library users.Design/methodology/approach – Using a combination of structured analyses of the previous library website, user surveys, a card sort protocol and a think‐aloud protocol, the Website Redesign Team procured sufficient information to meet its redesign goals: established clear site organization and navigation, utilized user‐centered nomenclature, ensured easy access from the library homepage to relevant information, developed a unified institutional visual identity throughout the site, and enabled a content management system.Findings – Standard usability methods such as surveys and the card sort and think‐aloud protocols are essential tools for evaluating and redesigning complex multi‐layered websites. Since the redesign process is not finite, these tools contribute to keeping a website current and res...