bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Employee Acceptance of Human Resource Management Information System: Integrated UTAUT and TTF Model in a Selected Public Firm in Sri Lanka
Authors: Sachitra Vilani , Wimalasena Tharini
Published: January 2024

Aim: In the modern digital world, many companies are moving towards technology-based applications to perform human resource administration work. Employees nowadays are capable of accessing a web-based Human Resource Management Information System (HRMIS) to obtain critical data from recognized techniques such as System Applications and Products (SAP), PeopleSoft, Bann and Lawson. This study aims to investigating the factors affecting the adopting intention of HRMIS in a selected public firm in Sri Lanka.

Design: Acknowledging the vital concepts on accepting or resisting technology, six components (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, task characteristics, and technology characteristics) from the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model and the Task Technology Fit (TTF) model were contextualized to investigate the drivers influencing HRMIS adoption intentions in a selected public firm in Sri Lanka. Target population was identified as the Executives, Supervisors/Technical Officers, Clerical and Allied employees of the chosen public company in Sri Lanka. A structured online questionnaire, including 30 items, was used to collect data.

Findings: Multiple regression analysis results revealed that the factors of Performance Expectation, Task Characteristics, and Technology Characteristics have a positive influence on users’ adoption intention to HRMIS. Effort Expectancy, Social Influence, and Facilitating Conditions had negative influence.

Implications: The outcomes highlight the necessity of combining TTF components with technology acceptance theories when evaluating the factors influencing acceptance of HRMIS or other information systems. The study's findings will aid management in making the required organizational changes to encourage employees to use the HRMIS application.
Application of the Proposed Technique to Estimate the Bivariate Gamma Model
Authors: thanoon Shaymaa Riyadh
Published: January 2024

In this paper, the parameters of the mixed gamma with m components were estimated using model assuming that the variables are not dependent. The method used includes the ideas of the (Wilson-Hilferty (WH) approximation), the (MCLUST) formula, and (the ML principle). The complexities related to parameter estimation and mixture quantitative relation determination area unit reduced thanks to incorporation of a The Wilson-Hilferty approximation (WH) that converts to multivariate Gaussian mixture (MGMM) setup. This methodology was wont to estimate the rate of spleen enlargement in patients with thalassemia (anemia Mediterranean Sea).
Surface structure and properties of water‐based polymer coating materials prepared by the complexation of two polymer latices with chemically complementary structures
Authors: Dan Y. , Chen S. Y. , Lian T. J.
Published: September 2003

In this study, water‐based polymer coating materials used for the surface coating of substrates with lower surface energies were prepared by the complexation of two‐component polymer latices containing polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and having chemically complementary structures. The film‐forming performance of the polymer latices and the surface structures and properties of the coatings formed by the polymer latices were studied by means of scanning electron microscopy and by the measurement of mechanical strength, thermal performance, water absorbability, and contact angle. When the two‐component polymer latices [the poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐butyl acrylate‐co‐methyl acrylic acid)/polydimethylsiloxane system (PA latex) and the poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐butyl acrylate‐co‐pyrrolidone)/polydimethylsiloxane system (PB latex)] were compared, the complex polymer latex formed by the complexation of the PA latex with the PB latex had the best film‐forming performance, with formed coatings that were more smooth and had fewer less cracks. Also, compared to the two coatings formed by the two‐component polymer latices, the coatings formed by the complex polymer latex had a unique structure, a higher mechanical strength and elongation, a higher decomposing temperature, and better water resistance. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 90: 1748–1754, 2003
Estimating the total oxidant demand for in situ chemical oxidation design
Authors: Haselow John S. , Siegrist Robert L. , Crimi Michelle , Jarosch Tim
Published: September 2003

Analytical techniques for designing of in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) to treat
organics in soil and groundwater are emerging. There are several issues that need to be resolved prior to
adopting a standard analytical technique. Some of the more salient issues are discussed. In addition, currently
practiced analytical techniques for estimating the oxidant demand for the oxidants permanganate and persulfate
are provided. In the absence of analytical measurements, rules of thumb can be used with caution to estimate the
overall oxidant demand. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rotenone increases glutamate‐induced dopamine release but does not affect hydroxyl‐free radical formation in rat striatum
Authors: Leng Andreas , Feldon Joram , Ferger Boris
Published: September 2003

Impairment of the mitochondrial complex I has been found in Parkinson's disease and recently long‐term treatment with the complex I inhibitor rotenone led to neurodegeneration and Lewy body‐like inclusions in rats. To investigate the relationship of free radical formation, complex I inhibition, and dopamine release, rotenone (15 mg/kg s.c.) was injected in male Sprague Dawley rats. Complex I inhibition was measured in the striatum and substantia nigra using the lactate accumulation assay. Dopamine release and free radical formation was determined using striatal microdialysis in combination with the salicylate hydroxylation assay. In a second experiment, glutamate (10 mM) stimulation via the microdialysis probe was used to provoke hydroxyl radical formation and dopamine release 60 min after rotenone or vehicle pretreatment. Rotenone significantly increased striatal and nigral lactate levels. However, rotenone did not produce a significant increase in hydroxyl radical formation and dopamine release, but led to a pronounced hypokinesia. In contrast, rotenone in comparison to vehicle pretreatment produced a significant augmentation of glutamate‐induced dopamine release (67‐fold and 31‐fold increase, respectively) and did not affect the glutamate‐induced hydroxyl free radical formation (23‐fold and 21‐fold increase, respectively). The present study demonstrates that a single systemic rotenone administration does not lead to neurotoxicity, but rather to enhanced glutamate‐induced dopamine release with no further increase of hydroxyl free radical formation. Thus, acute complex I inhibition in the presence or absence of high extracellular dopamine and glutamate levels is not critically involved in the formation of hydroxyl free radicals. Synapse 50:240–250, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Does catatonia have a specific brain biology?
Authors: Bogerts Bernhard
Published: September 2003

Dr. Northoff's comprehensive comparison of clinical symptoms and neurobiological findings in catatonia with that of Parkinson's disease through integration of various levels of investigation, from neurochemistry up to the subjective experience, is a good example of the new strategies we need to improve our understanding of psychiatric disorders. His multimodal approach, leading to the hypothesis that different pathophysiologies of transcortical “horizontal modulation” and “bottom-up/top-down” – orbitofrontal/basal ganglia – “vertical modulations,” may explain many clinical aspects of catatonia and Parkinson's disease, and thereby fills an important gap in current theories of psychomotor syndromes. However, to analyze more specifically the pathophysiology of catatonia, comparison not only with Parkinson's disease, but also with schizophrenia and anxiety disorders would be helpful. As long as the pathohistological and molecular basis of catatonic syndromes is unknown, theories based mainly on functional considerations remain preliminary.
Catatonia: A disorder of motivation and movement
Authors: Fricchione Gregory
Published: September 2003

Georg Northoff employs a comparison with Parkinson's disease in an effort to tease apart the underlying pathophysiology of psychogenic catatonia. Northoff's extensive treatment of the subject is abetted by his own research as well as the research of others. Nevertheless, a number of points concerning basal ganglia/thalamocortical processing need to be raised, some adding support to his hypothesis and others detracting from it.
Top-down versus bottom-up is not the same thing as psychological versus biological
Authors: Hardcastle Valerie Gray
Published: September 2003

While there may be interesting theoretical differences between cortical and subcortical malfunctions, it is not a difference that is going to separate the psychological from the biological. For, the distinctions we draw between the “psychological” and “biological” turn on our assessments of others' conscious experiences, and not on anything deeper or more profound.
Does the form of akinetic mutism linked to mesodiencephalic injuries bridge the double dissociation of Parkinson's disease and catatonia?
Authors: Kamal Ayeesha K. , Schiff Nicholas D.
Published: September 2003

Northoff provides a compelling argument supporting a kind of “double dissociation” of Parkinson's disease and catatonia. We discuss a related form of akinetic mutism linked to mesodiencephalic injuries and suggest an alternative to the proposed “horizontal” versus “vertical” modulation distinction. Rather than a “directional” difference in patterned neuronal activity, we propose that both disorders reflect hypersynchrony within typically interdependent but segregated networks facilitated by a common thalamic gating mechanism.
Can dancing replace scientific approach: Lost (again) in chimpocentrism
Authors: Miklósi A.
Published: September 2003

In communication studies, in contrast to the approach of the information-transmission hypothesis, the dynamic systems theory tackles the problem of continous feedback between interactors. However, Shanker & King's (S&K's) account seems to lack methodological elaboration, for the reader is presented with anecdotes. Furthermore, in contrast to the authors' beliefs, chimpanzees (and humans) are not the only animals able to show coregulated communicative interactions, for similar phenomena can be found in other animals, as for example in dogs.
Could dancing be coupled oscillation? – the interactive approach to linguistic communication and dynamical systems theory
Authors: Myin Erik , Smets Sonja
Published: September 2003

Although we applaud the interactivist approach to language and communication taken in the target article, we notice that Shanker & King (S&K) give little attention to the theoretical frameworks developed by dynamical system theorists. We point out how the dynamical idea of causality, viewed as multidirectional across multiple scales of organization, could further strengthen the position taken in the target article.
Contribution of plasticity of sensorimotor cerebral cortex to development of communication skills
Authors: Sessle Barry J. , Yao Dongyuan
Published: September 2003

Several lines of evidence have underscored the remarkable neuroplasticity of the primate sensorimotor cortex, characterizing these cortical areas as dynamic constructs that are modelled in a use-dependent manner by behaviourally significant experiences. Their plasticity likely provides a neural substrate that may contribute to the dynamic systems paradigm argued by Shanker & King (S&K) as crucial for development of communication skills.
Could you think Carruthers’ ideas without having to speak them? Talk with yourself if you want to have any thought on that
Authors: Molina Carlos
Published: September 2003

First, the importance of language in cognition is recognized. Nevertheless, this does not necessarily imply that the locus of thought is natural language (words, syntax, phonology). Then, difficulties with some of Carruthers’ hypotheses are stated: Is an account based on LFs capable of dealing with the complexities involved in what we call thought? Finally, mention of the issue of language production is made.
DIMENSIONS OF LITERACY: A CONCEPTUAL BASE FOR TEACHING READING AND WRITING IN SCHOOL SETTINGS. Stephen Kucer. Mahwah, NJ: Erlbaum, 2001. Pp. x + 304. $59.95 cloth, $29.95 paper.
NEGOTIATING CRITICAL LITERACIES IN CLASSROOMS. Barbara Comber and Anne Simpson (Eds.). Mahwah, NJ: Erlbaum, 2001. Pp. xxii + 290. $79.95 cloth, $29.95 paper.
Authors: Cushman Ellen
Published: September 2003

Preservice kindergarten through university teachers will benefit from these books' overview of the field and their carefully weighed claims about what counts as literacy practices in language arts and English classrooms. Though geared more toward a general audience of literacy teachers, the books do have sections and chapters that would appeal to preservice second language teachers. The straightforward writing in both books will be easily accessible to students for whom this may be the first encounter with literacy and classroom research. Taking different tacks on literacy research, the books complement each other well: Where Kucer's survey stops, the Comber and Simpson collection picks up.
PHONOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE: CONCEPTUAL AND EMPIRICAL ISSUES. Noel Burton-Roberts, Philip Carr, and Gerard Docherty (Eds.). Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2001. Pp. x + 352. $85.00 cloth, $35.00 paper.
Authors: Lin Yen-Hwei
Published: September 2003

This book is a collection of papers dealing with the philosophical, conceptual, and empirical foundations of phonology, its position and relation with respect to syntax and phonetics in the theory of language, and the nature and acquisition of phonological knowledge. The introductory chapter by the editors provides a comprehensive discussion of the main themes presented in the following 11 chapters, in which diverse perspectives are represented. Bromberger and Halle open with a discussion of phonology within the context of the philosophy of language. Some chapters take a highly formal view of phonology: Hale and Reiss argue that phonology operates without reference to phonetic substance, and van der Hulst maintains that phonology and syntax are subject to the same operating principles. In contrast, the chapters by Burton-Roberts and Carr argue that phonology is substantive and should be excluded from the language faculty. Some papers adopt a more empirical approach: Docherty and Foulkes argue that phonological knowledge must include systematic sociophonetic variation; Fitzpatrick and Wheeldon discuss psycholinguistic research on spoken word comprehension; and Pierrehumbert, Beckman, and Ladd advocate experimental verification of phonological theory. Issues related to phonetics versus phonology are addressed by Myers, who distinguishes the gradual versus categorical nature of phonetics and phonology, Harris and Lindsey, who propose that vowel features are formulated on the basis of phonetic spectral patterns, and Vihman and Velleman, who discuss how phonological categories emerge from phonetic input in child language acquisition.
RESEARCHING PEDAGOGIC TASKS: SECOND LANGUAGE LEARNING, TEACHING, AND TESTING. Martin Bygate, Peter Skehan, and Merrill Swain (Eds.). Harlow, UK: Pearson Education, 2001. Pp. x + 258. $32.00 paper.
Authors: Alvarez-Torres María José
Published: September 2003

This volume presents a series of empirical studies that reflect the editors' commitment to the exploration of pedagogic tasks from three interrelated perspectives—learning, teaching, and testing. The introductory chapter by the editors sets the tone of the volume by advocating this view of tasks and provides the basis for a definition that differs from previous, generic definitions in its emphasis on “the different purposes to which tasks are used” (p. 5). Therefore, according to the editors, tasks are inherently distinct and highly dependent on the situational context in which they develop. The departure from former task definitions aims: (a) to avoid continuous misinterpretations between the pedagogy and the research fields, (b) to create a space for understanding the purpose that tasks serve in different areas, and (c) to elude “inappropriate standards for task evaluation” (p. 12). The rest of the chapters are grouped into three sections according to area of emphasis (learning, teaching, or testing). Each section begins with a brief introduction to the chapters it includes.
Systematic observation of westward propagating cloud bands over the Arabian Sea during Indian Ocean Experiment (INDOEX) from Meteosat‐5 data
Authors: Désalmand Françoise , Szantai André , Picon Laurence , Desbois Michel
Published: September 2003

During the field experiment phase of the Indian Ocean Experiment (INDOEX), linear cloud formations parallel to the West Indian coast and propagating westward have been observed. Meteosat‐5 images are used for the description of the life cycle of these events. Single cloud bands, or main cloud bands followed by (up to 10) secondary parallel cloud lines with a wavelike pattern, have been observed daily during four periods in the dry season of 1999 (15 January, 16–19 February, 27 February to 7 March, and 1–3 April 1999). During these four periods, one single cloud band or a packet of cloud bands is generated every day at nighttime. Their length reaches several hundreds of kilometers, their width lies below 40 km, and their duration in some cases exceeds 24 hours. The smaller cloud lines observed behind the leading cloud line are narrower and are separated by a distance of 2–10 km. Cloud tops are about 3–8°C colder than the Arabian Sea, corresponding to an altitude between 500 and 1200 m during the night and below 2500 m during daytime. Cloud bands travel westward over the Arabian Sea at a speed around 13 m/s, greater than the wind speed measured in the surrounding area. The motion of the cloud band presents similarities with the wavelike propagation of atmospheric phenomena such as the Australian morning glories. Common elements to the different cases are the following: weak low‐level winds close to the southwestern Indian coast when the cloud bands appear, winds with a northerly component in the vicinity of the northwestern Indian coast, the presence of a sea‐land breeze circulation along the West Indian coast, and the presence of high concentrations of pollutants over the northeastern Arabian Sea. However, existing physical links between these elements (if any) still have to be investigated.
Better preserved immune responses after immunization with rgp 160 in HIV‐1 infected patients treated with highly active antiretroviral therapy than in untreated patients with similar CD4 levels during at 2 years' follow‐up
Authors: Hejdeman B , Leandersson A‐C , Fredriksson E‐L , Sandström E , Wahren B , Bratt G
Published: September 2003

Objective

To study the impact of effective highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on the preservation of long‐term CD4 memory cells induced by vaccines in HIV‐1‐infected patients.

Methods

Thirty HIV‐1‐positive patients on HAART with undetectable viral load were randomized into three groups: 10 received HIV‐1 rgp160 vaccine, 10 received tetanus vaccine and 10 patients were not immunized. As controls, 10 HIV‐negative volunteers were immunized with tetanus vaccine. The results were compared with an rgp160 vaccine study performed before the era of HAART on patients with comparable CD4 levels. All patients were monitored for 2 years for T‐cell proliferative responses, T‐cell subset levels, serum IgG and viral load.

Results

After 1 year all patients immunized with rgp160 had strong T‐cell responses to the rgp160 antigen. After 2 years this response was preserved in the HAART‐treated group, but not in the rgp160 immunized non‐HAART group, despite comparable CD4 levels. Recall effects of the CD4‐specific responses towards other antigens were seen in the rgp160‐immunized HAART group.

Conclusion

Immunization with rpg 160 leads to positive effects on HIV‐specific T‐cell proliferative responses in patients both with and without HAART. Immune responses after immunization is better preserved in HAART‐treated patients who have low viral amounts than in individuals with high viral load and no HAART despite comparable CD4 levels during 2 years' follow‐up. Interruption of HAART with return of a high viral load might thus have negative effects on T‐cell functions in the long term, even if CD4 levels are kept at clinically acceptable levels.
Heterogeneity of Postsynaptic Receptor Occupancy Fluctuations among Glycinergic Inhibitory Synapses in the Zebrafish Hindbrain
Authors: Rigo Jean‐Michel , Badiu Carmen Ionela , Legendre Pascal
Published: September 2003

The amplitude of glycinergic miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) varies considerably in neurons recorded in the isolated hindbrain of 50‐h‐old zebrafish larvae. At this age, glycinergic synapses are functionally mature. In order to measure the occupancy level of postsynaptic glycine receptors (GlyRs) and to determine the pre‐ and/or postsynaptic origin of its variability, we analysed mIPSCs within bursts evoked by α‐latrotoxin (0.1–1 nm). Two types of burst were observed according to their mIPSC frequencies: ‘slow’ bursts with clearly spaced mIPSCs and ‘fast’ bursts characterised by superimposed events. Non‐stationary noise analysis of mIPSCs in some ‘slow’ bursts recorded in the presence or in the absence of Ca2+ denoted that mIPSC amplitude variance did not depend on the quantity of neurotransmitters released (presynaptic origin), but rather on intrinsic stochastic behaviour of the same group of GlyRs (postsynaptic origin). In these bursts, the open probability measured at the peak of the mIPSCs was close to 0.5 while the maximum open probability is close to 0.9 for the synaptic isoform of GlyRs (heteromeric α1/β GlyRs). In ‘fast’ bursts with superimposed events, a correlation was found between the amplitude of mIPSCs and the basal current level measured at their onset, which could suggest that the same group of GlyRs is activated during such bursts. Altogether, our results indicate that glycine synapses can display different release modes in the presence of α‐latrotoxin. They also indicate that, in our model, postsynaptic GlyRs cannot be saturated by the release of a single vesicle.
Optical Imaging of a Tactile Illusion in Area 3b of the Primary Somatosensory Cortex
Authors: Chen Li M. , Friedman Robert M. , Roe Anna W.
Published: September 2003

In the tactile funneling illusion, the simultaneous presentation of brief stimuli at multiple points on the skin produces a single focal sensation at the center of the stimulus pattern even when no physical stimulus occurs at that site. Consistent with the funneling percept, we show with optical imaging in area 3b of the primary somatosensory cortex (SI) that simultaneous stimulation of two fingertips produces a single focal cortical activation between the single fingertip activation regions. Thus, in contrast to traditional views of the body map, topographic representation in the SI reflects the perceived rather than the physical location of peripheral stimulation.
Novel Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Inhibitors That Have a Dual Mode of Anti-HIV Action
Authors: Stevens Miguel , Pannecouque Christophe , De Clercq Erik , Balzarini Jan
Published: September 2003

We have found that novel pyridine oxide derivatives are inhibitors of a wide range of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1 (HIV-1) and HIV-2 strains in CEM cell cultures. Some of the compounds showed inhibitory activities against recombinant HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT), whereas others were totally inactive against this viral protein in vitro. Partial retention of anti-HIV-1 activity against virus strains that contain a variety of mutations characteristic of those for resistance to nonnucleoside RT inhibitors and a lack of inhibitory activity against recombinant HIV-2 RT suggested that these pyridine oxide derivatives possess a mode of antiviral action independent from HIV RT inhibition. Time-of-addition experiments revealed that these pyridine oxide derivatives interact at a postintegration step in the replication cycle of HIV. Furthermore, it was shown that these compounds are active not only in acutely HIV-1-infected cells but also in chronically HIV-infected cells. A dose-dependent inhibition of virus particle release and viral protein expression was observed upon exposure to the pyridine oxide derivatives. Finally, inhibition of HIV-1 long terminal repeat-mediated green fluorescence protein expression in quantitative transactivation bioassays indicated that the additional target of action of the pyridine oxide derivatives may be located at the level of HIV gene expression.
WORD AND DEED: ON 'STAGE-DIRECTIONS' IN GREEK TRAGEDY
Authors: Poe Joe Park
Published: September 2003

Taking its departure from the generally-accepted opinion that (almost) all important movements and gestures of the actors in Greek tragedy are indicated in the text itself, this essay asks how the generic, and aesthetic, character of tragedy is affected by the verbal communication of so much visual detail. Do the passages that refer to movement advance the dialogue— that is, the dramatic action? If many of them seem to convey much the same information as the movement itself, this raises a question about just how dramatic Greek tragedy is. Undertaking a detailed, albeit not exhaustive, survey of utterances indicating actors' movements, the study shows that a majority of such utterances are followed by a specific response, either verbal or visual, and a number of others may be said to contribute otherwise to the progress of the dialogue. A relatively small but not insignificant number, however, clearly are external to the mimesis of communication among the

dramatis personae

. The final section of the essay argues that verbal indications of movement have an aesthetic value that is independent of the mimesis of actor/actor dialogue. For a number of utterances take notice of movements which—either because they are ancillary to what is said or because they are 'entailed' movements—do not of themselves contribute to the dramatic action.
Advantage ISP: Terms of Service as Media Law
Authors: Braman Sandra , Roberts Stephanie
Published: September 2003

All users must access the internet through ISPs on the basis of contracts known as `terms of service' or `acceptable use policies' that are becoming de facto law for internet communications. This article examines contracts fr om over two dozen ISPs. Findings include a knowledge differ ential between users and ISPs regarding rules and their applications. User s have liability irrespective of intention, while ISPs do not. User s must license content to ISPs. And ISP agreements disregard constitutional standar ds regarding freedom of expr ession and privacy. Public forum analysis provides a legal foundation for seeking ter ms of service more protective of constitutionally-based civil liberties and intellectual property rights.
Inhibitory neurons from fetal rat cerebral cortex exert delayed axon formation and active migration in vitro
Authors: Hayashi Kensuke , Kawai-Hirai Rika , Harada Akihiro , Takata Kuniaki
Published: September 2003

Inhibitory and excitatory neurons exhibit distinct patterns of development in the mammalian cerebral cortex. The morphological development of inhibitory and excitatory neurons derived from fetal rat cerebral cortex has now been compared in vitro. Inhibitory neurons were identified by immunofluorescence staining with antibodies to γ-aminobutyric acid, and axon formation was detected by staining with antibodies to phosphorylated neurofilaments. In chemically defined, glia-free and low-density cultures, excitatory neurons formed axons within three days of plating. By contrast, inhibitory neurons required more than six days to form axons. Time-lapse analysis over six days revealed that most inhibitory neurons were bipolar and that their two processes exhibited alternate growth and retraction without giving rise to axons. Movement of the cell body towards the growing process was apparent in about one-half of inhibitory neurons, whereas such movement was never seen in excitatory neurons. The migratory behavior of neurons was further investigated by culture on a glial cell monolayer. Inhibitory neurons migrated over substantially larger distances than did excitatory neurons. The centrosome of inhibitory neurons translocated to the base of the newly emerging leading process, suggesting the existence of a force that pulls intracellular organelles towards the leading process. Centrosome translocation was not detected in excitatory neurons. These observations suggest that the developmental programs of excitatory and inhibitory neurons differ. Inhibitory neurons thus possess a more effective cytoskeletal machinery for migration than excitatory neurons and they form axons later.
Lyocell fibers as the precursor of carbon fibers
Authors: Peng Shunjin , Shao Huili , Hu Xuechao
Published: September 2003

In this work, Lyocell fibers, used as carbon fiber precursors, were investigated. Lyocell fibers used for the carbon precursors and the carbon fibers themselves were produced in our laboratory. The mechanical properties morphology and structure of the precursors and the obtained carbon fibers were studied and compared to those of rayon. The results show that Lyocell fibers have higher tenacity and modulus, and better thermal stability than rayon fibers. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) experiments show that Lyocell precursors have round cross‐sections and fewer defects in the fibers, while rayon fiber has an oval cross‐section and many defects. Wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) results for the Lyocell precursors indicate that the degree of crystallinity of the Lyocell precursor is higher than that of a rayon precursor. They also show that Lyocell based carbon fibers have better mechanical properties than those that are rayon‐based. WAXD data of the obtained carbon fibers show that the crystallinity of Lyocell‐based carbon fiber is higher than that of rayon‐based carbon fiber. It is concluded that the Lyocell fibers are better precursors for carbon fibers than rayon. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 90: 1941–1947, 2003
Development of T cells expressing an altered TCR complex
Authors: Lee Wen‐Hui , Ramos Thomas , Krymskaya Ludmila , Liu Chih‐Pin
Published: September 2003

Normal mouse T cells may express alternative TCR complexes containing the FcϵR γ chain (FcRγ) rather than the ζ homodimer that is present in conventional TCR complexes. While these T cells could play critical roles in regulating immunity, the role of alternative TCR complexes and their requirement for signaling molecules in T cell development remains unknown. We show thatexpression of an FcRγ transgene in ζ chain‐deficient mice (FcRγTG, ζKO mice) reduced the percentage and number of CD4+ T cells present in these animals, when compared to C57BL/6 mice. Further studies of FcRγTG, ζKO mice expressing the DO11.10 TCR (DOTCR) transgene showed that, when compared to mice expressing conventional TCR complexes, the development of CD4+, DOTCR+ thymocytes was altered in mice of different MHC backgrounds and required the presence of zeta‐associated protein (ZAP)‐70 and lck kinases. The CD4+, DOTCR+ T cells bearing alternative TCR complexes have impaired Ca2+ flux and proliferative response to stimulation. Altogether, these results suggest that the altered development of CD4+ T cells is not due to qualitative differences in TCR‐mediated signals, but more consistent with the hypothesis that it is due to reduced signaling strength mediated through the FcRγ chain containing only one immunoreceptor tyrosine‐based activation motif.
Raising the bar for connectionist modeling of cognitive developmental disorders
Authors: Christiansen Morten H. , Conway Christopher M. , Ellefson Michelle R.
Published: September 2003

Cognitive developmental disorders cannot be properly understood without due attention to the developmental process, and we commend the authors’simulations in this regard. We note the contribution of these simulations to the nascent field of connectionist modeling of developmental disorders and outline a set of criteria for assessing individual models in the hope of furthering future modeling efforts.
Catatonia isn't ready for a unified theory
Authors: Bearden Carrie E. , Monterosso John R.
Published: September 2003

Northoff's target article presents a unifying theory of the pathophysiology of catatonia, as compared to Parkinson's disease. We address two arguments in particular that do not appear justified by available evidence: (1) The physiological basis of catatonia is the breakdown of right hemisphere prefrontal-parietal cortical connectivity, and (2) Dysfunction in this system results in specific deficits in termination of action.
Domain-generality and the relative pronoun
Authors: Bermudez José Luis
Published: September 2003

The hypothesis in the target paper is that the cognitive function of language lies in making possible the integration of different types of domain-specific information. The case for this hypothesis must consist, at least in part, of a constructive proposal as to what feature or features of natural language allows this integration to take place. This commentary suggests that the vital linguistic element is the relative pronoun and the possibility it affords of forming relative clauses.
Two closely related simulations provide weak limits on Residual Normality
Authors: Cooper Richard P.
Published: September 2003

Thomas & Karmiloff-Smith (T&K-S) correctly identify Residual Normality (RN) as a critical assumption of some theorising about mental structure within developmental psychology. However, their simulations provide only weak support for the conditions under which RN may occur because they explore closely related architectures that share a learning algorithm. It is suggested that more work is required to establish the limits of RN.
You don't say: Figurative language and thought
Authors: Bryant Gregory A. , Gibbs Raymond W.
Published: September 2003

Carruthers has proposed a novel and quite interesting hypothesis for the role of language in conceptual integration, but his treatment does not acknowledge work in cognitive science on metaphor and analogy that reveals how diverse knowledge structures are integrated. We claim that this body of research provides clear evidence that cross-domain conceptual connections cannot be driven by syntactic processes alone.
Development is also experienced by a personal self who is shaped by culture
Authors: Ferrari Michel
Published: September 2003

I agree with Thomas & Karmiloff-Smith (T&K-S) in their critique of Residual Normality. However, first-person data must be integrated into their account of neurobiological development of disabilities. Furthermore, psychological development itself is not only about an individual’ brain and how it interacts with the world; rather, development depends crucially on the sociocultural context in which (normal and abnormal) children develop.
Information, information transfer, and information processing
Authors: Hahn Ulrike
Published: September 2003

Shanker & King (S&K) fail to provide substantive reasons for a paradigm shift in the study of communication because nonstandard and equivocal use of terminology obscures and undercuts their arguments.
Encapsulating architecture and encapsulating processes
Authors: Juola Patrick
Published: September 2003

Thomas & Karmiloff-Smith (T&K-S) raise the excellent and, in retrospect, obvious point that in a dynamic learning environment where feedback is possible, we should expect networks to adapt to damage by altering details of their behavior. We should therefore not expect that developmental disorders should result in “normal” modules. The implications of this point go much further, since interprocess dependency in the brain does not rely only on learned neural connections. This argues strongly against behavioral and process-related definitions, as opposed to structural and architecture-related definitions, of mental modularity.
Structural abnormality may not equal functional oddity
Authors: Levy Yonata
Published: September 2003

This commentary questions the authors’claim that cognitive neuropsychology is defined by modularity and that other theoretical frames, that is, connectionism, are a priori rejected. It also points to the fact that whereas in genetic disorders there are developmental delay and asynchrony, there are few reports of deviant developmental trajectories that are never seen in typical development. It is suggested that the possibility that structure does not equal function in the developing brain, may be a viable option.
Research scientist
Authors: Pepperberg Irene M.
Published: September 2003

Viewing communication as a dynamic system is laudable; arguing that the approach is novel is questionable. Some researchers studying nonhuman communication other than ape language have been using such an approach for decades. A brief description of an avian system provides one such example. Interestingly, the dynamic social system described in the target article may have a developmental neuronal basis.
A multichannel information-processing system is simpler and more easily tested
Authors: Zentall Thomas R.
Published: September 2003

The dance metaphor for the communication between two organisms may be an appealing image because it appears to capture the intricate synchronization of their interaction; however, it is neither parsimonious nor easily tested. Instead, a multichannel information-processing model, even one that can process only serial events, provides all of the flexibility required to account for the complex temporal coordinated action observed.
Whose Gene Is It? A Case Discussion About Familial Conflict over Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer
Authors: Green Ronald M. , Thomas A. Mathew
Published: September 2003

A multidisciplinary group of genetic and other professionals discuss a complex case of familial conflict over access to genetic information. One twin wishes to know the results of her deceased mother's tests for BRCA1 mutations; a second twin objects to researchers making this information available. As the case discussion unfolds, the apparent “facts” of this case are called into question and the lines of ethical certainty become less clear.
Gender differences and similarities in the leadership styles and behaviour of UK managers
Authors: Oshagbemi Titus , Gill Roger
Published: September 2003

Do men and women have a different or a similar approach to the leadership role? Various leadership styles and behaviour of managers have been researched in several countries to identify similarities and differences between men and women leaders. The present study examines the leadership style and behaviour of UK managers, using a questionnaire method in gathering data. The study found that women managers delegate less than their men counterparts, but there are no statistical differences between their directive, consultative and participative leadership styles. The study also found that, in leadership behaviour, men and women leaders differ significantly only in inspirational motivation but not in the other six aspects of leadership behaviour. The article explores the implications of these results.
Postantibiotic, Postantibiotic Sub-MIC, and Subinhibitory Effects of PGE-9509924, Ciprofloxacin, and Levofloxacin
Authors: Odenholt Inga , Löwdin Elisabeth , Cars Otto
Published: September 2003

Postantibiotic effects (PAEs), postantibiotic sub-MIC effects, and sub-MIC effects of the new nonfluoroquinolone PGE-9509924, ciprofloxacin, and levofloxacin against gram-positive and gram-negative strains were investigated. In comparison to ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin, PGE-9509924 exerted very similar PAEs against all strains except for both strains of
Streptococcus pneumoniae
, where longer PAEs were found for PGE-9509924. All three investigated quinolones showed no minimal PAEs against
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
.
Insulin-like growth factor I induces migration and invasion of human multiple myeloma cells
Authors: Qiang Ya-Wei , Yao Lei , Tosato Giovanna , Rudikoff Stuart
Published: September 2003

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable form of cancer characterized by accumulation of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow. During the course of this disease, tumor cells cross endothelial barriers and home to the bone marrow. In latter stages, myeloma cells extravasate through blood vessels and may seed a variety of organs. Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) is one of several growth factors shown to promote the growth of MM cells. In the current study, we have assessed the ability of IGF-I to serve additionally as a chemotactic factor affecting the mobility and invasive properties of these cells. Results indicate that IGF-I promotes transmigration through vascular endothelial cells and bone marrow stromal cell lines. Analysis of endogenous signaling pathways revealed that protein kinase D/protein kinase Cμ (PKD/PKCμ) and RhoA were both activated in a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI-3K)–dependent manner. Inhibition of PI-3K, PKCs, or Rho-associated kinase by pharmacologic inhibitors abrogated migration, whereas mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), Akt, and p70S6 kinase inhibitors had no effect. These results suggest that IGF-I promotes myeloma cell migration by activation of PI-3K/PKCμ and PI-3K/RhoA pathways independent of Akt. The identification of IGF-I as both a proliferative and migratory factor provides a rational basis for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies directed at IGF-I in the treatment of MM.
Poly(etherimide)/montmorillonite nanocomposites prepared by melt intercalation
Authors: Liang Zhu‐Mei , Yin Jie
Published: September 2003

A novel aromatic amine organo‐modifier synthesized in our previous work was used to treat montmorillonite (MMT) and the organo‐modified MMT was used to prepare poly(etherimide) (PEI)/MMT nanocomposites by a melt intercalation method. MMT treated by this amine exhibited large layer‐to‐layer spacing and a high ion‐exchange ratio (>95%). The nanocomposites were characterized with X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic mechanical analysis, a universal tester, thermogravimetric analysis, and by differential scanning calorimetry. The results of XRD and TEM showed that the nanocomposites formed exfoliated structures even when the MMT content was 10 wt %. When the MMT content was below 3 wt %, the PEI/MMT nanocomposites were strengthened and toughened at the same time. The nanocomposites also showed marked decreases in coefficient of thermal expansion and solvent uptake. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 90: 1857–1863, 2003
Studies on preparation of immersion‐type polypropylene fragrant fiber. I. Formation of matrix fiber in the melt‐spinning process and its technique of immersion essential oil
Authors: Wang Bing , Zhao Jiasen
Published: September 2003

Polypropylene/ethylene vinyl acetate (PP/EVA) blends were prepared in a plastic extruder with a static mixer. The thermodynamic compatibility, morphology, crystal form, and rheological behavior of PP/EVA blends were investigated by SEM, DSC, and rheology instruments. The results showed that PP and EVA were thermodynamically incompatible, the viscosity of the PP/EVA blends decreased with increase of shear rate in a range of temperature, the PP/EVA blends had a sea‐islands structure, and the crystalline zones remained in their original state and could not form mixed crystals in the PP/EVA blends. The PP/EVA blends were melt spun to prepare matrix fibers and the spinning conditions such as EVA content, the matching factor between pump delivery and winding velocity, and the melt‐spinning temperature were also determined. The sorption process of a matrix fiber for essential oils, adsorbed under various sorption conditions such as sorption time, sorption temperature, and EVA content, was also studied. The results revealed that the composite isotherm of the adsorption of matrix fiber for essential oil was characteristic of a U model. Through adsorbing essential oil, the immersion‐type PP fragrant fibers could be prepared with the matrix fiber. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 90: 1970–1979, 2003
Randomized clinical trial of adjuvant radiotherapy and 5-fluorouracil infusion in colorectal cancer (AXIS)
Authors:   The AXIS collaborators
Published: September 2003

Background

Postoperative portal vein infusion (PVI) of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is a well tolerated and widely applicable treatment for colorectal cancer that might have an enormous public health impact, even if it produced survival benefits of just a few per cent. Very large trials are required to detect such differences, and the Adjuvant X-ray and 5-FU Infusion Study (AXIS) is the largest such trial yet reported.

Methods

Consenting patients with presumed colorectal cancer were randomized to surgery with or without 7 days of PVI (1 g 5-FU plus 5000 units heparin in 1 litre 5 per cent dextrose infused over each 24-h period). In addition, patients with rectal cancer could be randomized to radiotherapy or no radiotherapy to be given either before or after surgery.

Results

Between November 1989 and December 1997, 3583 patients were randomized with respect to PVI. The survival hazard ratios (95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.)) in all patients randomized and in the curatively resected subgroup (71·2 per cent of patients) were 1·00 (0·92 to 1·11) and 0·94 (0·83 to 1·06) respectively. Tests for heterogeneity suggested a greater treatment benefit for patients with colonic cancer than for patients with rectal cancer with respect to disease-free survival (hazard ratio 0·79 versus 1·03; P = 0·07), and there was a non-significant trend with respect to overall survival (hazard ratio 0·87 versus 1·03; P = 0·17). No survival benefit was seen in the 761 patients randomized with respect to radiotherapy; although not statistically significant, the impact on local recurrence rates was similar to that reported in the literature.

Conclusion

No overall benefit of PVI was established in AXIS when colonic and rectal cancers were considered together, but the evidence suggesting a differential treatment effect according to site of cancer in AXIS was strongly supported by a meta-analysis incorporating the previous trials. Combining the data gave hazard ratios of 0·82 and 1·00 for colonic and rectal tumours respectively (test for interaction, P = 0·024), equating to an absolute survival benefit for patients with colonic cancer of 5·8 (95 per cent c.i. 2·8 to 8·5) per cent, a level close to that seen for prolonged systemic therapy.