cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Leader–Member Exchange (LMX) and Frontline Employees’ Service-Oriented Organizational Citizenship Behavior in the Foodservice Context: Exploring the Moderating Role of Work Status

ABSTRACTThis study identified the direct and indirect effect of leader–member exchange (LMX) on frontline employees’ service-oriented organizational citizenship behaviors (SOCB) targeting customers and co-workers in the foodservice context. Service-role ambiguity was proposed as a partial mediator in the conceptual model. The moderating effect of work status was also explored in this study. Data were collected from 452 frontline employees, working in 31 different foodservice establishments. All five proposed hypotheses were supported, highlighting the effect of LMX on service role clarity (or ambiguity) and the SOCB. A multiple-group structural equation modeling analysis showed that the effect of LMX on SOCB was higher among part-time employees, compared to full-time employees. One implication of the study findings is that part-time employees should also be treated as a valuable asset to the foodservice organization.
Infer Cause of Death for Population Health Using Convolutional Neural Network

In biomedical data analysis, inferring the cause of death is a challenging and important task, which is useful for both public health reporting purposes, as well as improving patients' quality of care by identifying severer conditions. Causal inference, however, is notoriously difficult. Traditional causal inference mainly relies on analyzing data collected from experiment of specific design, which is expensive, and limited to a certain disease cohort, making the approach less generalizable. In our paper, we adopt a novel data-driven perspective to analyze and improve the death reporting process, to assist physicians identify the single underlying cause of death. To achieve this, we build state-of-the-art deep learning models, convolution neural network (CNN), and achieve around 75% accuracy in predicting the single underlying cause of death from a list of relevant medical conditions. We also provide interpretations for the black-box neural network models, so that death reporting physicians can apply the model with better understanding of the model.
Novel poly-ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitor combination strategies in ovarian cancer.

Purpose of reviewThe recent United States Food and Drug Administration approvals of niraparib and olaparib as maintenance monotherapy for platinum-sensitive, high-grade ovarian cancers independent of BRCA status reflect a willingness to seek indications for poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibito
Crops With Improved Nutritional Content Though Agricultural Biotechnology

Abstract Malnutrition, resulting from micronutrient deficiencies such as vitamin A, folate, and iron, is and will continue to be, one of the greatest challenges of our world for the next century. One way to address this challenge is the development of food crops through the use of agricultural biotechnology that are rich in vitamins and minerals. The following chapter explores the use of genetic engineering strategies, including transgenesis, RNA interference, and genome editing to create the next generation of biotech crops that can improve the nutritional status of the rural poor in developing countries. The chapter provides a series of examples of crops that have been biofortified through biotechnology, including rice, banana, potato, cassava, and sorghum. Nutritionally enhanced food crops, including tomato, false flax, and Brassica species are also discussed. The chapter ends with a discussion of the potential of biotechnology to provide a more nutritionally secure world.
"La Noche de San Daniel", entre la ficción literaria y el compromiso político

"La Noche de San Daniel" se refiere a los tragicos sucesos ocurridos en Madrid en abril de 1865, tras una protesta estudiantil que provoco la caida del gobierno de Narvaez y precipito la revolucion de 1868. El suceso historico de "La Noche de San Daniel" constituye un capitulo importante de la historia de Espana del siglo XIX. Este trabajo analiza este evento en dos articulos periodisticos de Galdos de 1865, en Fortunata y Jacinta, en De Cartago a Sagunto y en Prim, penultimo episodio de la cuarta serie de los Episodios Nacionales, en contraste con la postura tomada por Alarcon.
Convex Hulls: Extensions and Applications

This chapter has two objectives. The first is the discussion of variants and special cases of the convex hull problem, as well as the average-case performance analysis of convex hull algorithms. The second objective is the discussion of applications that use the convex hull. New problems will be formulated and treated as they arise in these applications. Their variety should convince the reader that the hull problem is important both in practice and as a fundamental tool in computational geometry.
15 – Rapid fabrication of biomimetic nanofiber-enabled skin grafts

: The utilization of nanofibers for skin wound repair holds great promise due to their morphological and dimensional similarity to the native extracellular matrix (ECM). Electrospinning, a high voltage-driven spinning technique, enables cost-effective fabrication of nanofibers from versatile materials. Numerous progresses have been made in fabricating and characterizing various nanofibers for wound repair and the generation of new skin grafts. We have also been intensively working on the fabrication of various biomimetic nanofibers and utilizing them for accelerating the formation of skin tissues. Along with a summary of up-to- date progress occurring in the field, this chapter particularly highlights the use of nanofibers for the rapid creation of tissue-engineered skin grafts, crucial to the treatment of extensive deep burns.
Residual stress measurements in welded steel beam column connections by scanning acoustic microscopy

Residual stresses which arise from thermal expansion and contraction due to welding may have contributed to the brittle fracture exhibited by welded steel beam-to-column connections during the Northridge Earthquake. These residual stresses have a strong influence on crack initiation and crack propagation in the vicinity of stress concentrations (i.e., unfused backup bar in welded steel beam-to-column connections) and account for changes in the driving force for fracture. They affect material toughness by changing the constraint condition under which fracture occurs. Currently, all methods of dealing with residual stresses are hampered by the lack of a consistent means of measuring the magnitudes and distribution of these stresses. This paper describes a new acoustic microscopy technique that allows the mapping of residual stresses in welded connections with high spatial resolution. The technique is based on the sensitivity of polarized acoustic modes to local elastic anisotropy induced by stress. The technique furthermore allows the mapping of residual stresses in a “tomographic” way by changing the frequencies of the acoustic waves. The results reveal that the magnitude of the residual stresses is influenced by the local microstructure of the steel and the weld metal. Ductile microstructures within the weld and the heat affected zone release residual stresses by yielding, whereas brittle microstructures retain residual stresses.
Warm-season annual forages in forage-finishing beef systems: II. Animal performance and carcass characteristics

More information on expected animal performance and carcass traits of forage-finished steers grazing warm-season annual forages is needed. To achieve this objective, a grazing trial was conducted in 2014, 2015, and 2016 (70, 63, and 56 d, respectively), with variation in length of grazing based on forage availability. Sixteen pastures (0.81 ha) were assigned to 1 of 4 forage treatments in a randomized complete block design. Forage treatments were brown midrib sorghum × sudangrass (BMR; Sorghum bicolor var. bicolor*bicolor var. sudanense), sorghum × sudangrass (SS), pearl millet [PM; Pennisetum glaucum (L.)R.Br.], or pearl millet planted with crabgrass [PMCG; Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop.]. Each year, British-cross beef steers (n = 32; 3 y average: 429 ± 22 kg) were stratified by weight and randomly assigned to 1 of the 16 pastures for forage finishing. Each pasture was subdivided into two 0.405-ha paddocks for rotational stocking and a put-and-take stocking method was used to maintain a forage allowance of 116 kg forage dry matter/100 kg body weight (BW). Shrunk body weight and ultrasonically measured carcass composition were recorded at the initiation, middle, and end of each grazing season. Steers were harvested once forage availability became limited and chilled carcasses (24 h) were evaluated for yield grade and quality grade attributes. Statistical analysis was conducted using the GLIMMIX procedure in SAS 9.4 (Cary, NC) with main effects of treatment, year, and the interaction. Pasture and block were considered random effects while date was assessed as a main effect when applicable. Daily stocking densities were greater (P 0.17) total gain, total average daily gain, or body weight at any time point. Ultrasound composition traits of loin muscle area, 12th rib fat thickness, intramuscular fat, and rump fat were impacted (P 0.08) in forage treatments were observed for carcass characteristics associated with yield grade or quality grade. The findings suggest that forage-finished cattle during the summer months on BMR, SS, PM, and PMCG perform similarly, giving producers the option to use the most economical or practical forage type for their production system.
A uniform flow–cavity ring-down spectrometer (UF-CRDS): A new setup for spectroscopy and kinetics at low temperature

The UF-CRDS (Uniform Flow-Cavity Ring Down Spectrometer) is a new setup coupling for the first time a pulsed uniform (Laval) flow with a continuous wave CRDS in the near infrared for spectroscopy and kinetics at low temperature. This high resolution and sensitive absorption spectrometer opens a new window into the phenomena occurring within UFs. The approach extends the detection range to new electronic and rovibrational transitions within Laval flows and offers the possibility to probe numerous species which have not been investigated yet. This new tool has been designed to probe radicals and reaction intermediates but also to follow the chemistry of hydrocarbon chains and PAHs which play a crucial role in the evolution of astrophysical environments. For kinetics measurements, the UF-CRDS combines the CRESU technique (French acronym meaning reaction kinetics in uniform supersonic flows) with the SKaR (Simultaneous Kinetics and Ring-Down) approach where, as indicated by its name, the entire reaction is monitored during each intensity decay within the high finesse cavity. The setup and the approach are demonstrated with the study of the reaction between CN (v = 1) and propene at low temperature. The recorded data are finally consistent with a previous study of the same reaction for CN (v = 0) relying on the CRESU technique with laser induced fluorescence detection.
Health-related quality of life changes after the merging yoga and occupational therapy for Parkinson's disease program: A mixed-methods study.

Abstract Background To understand changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after the Merging Yoga and Occupational Therapy for Parkinson's Disease (MY-OT for PD) program. Materials and methods We used a mixed-methods convergent design and administered the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire—8 (PDQ-8), a measure of HRQoL, with 17 participants. We considered scores 8 weeks before MY-OT for PD, just before, and upon completion. Additionally, we completed two focus groups following the program with 16 participants to assess qualitative changes in HRQoL. Results There were no significant differences in PDQ-8 scores between time points, F(2,32) = 1.60, p = 0.22, partial η2 = 0.09. Participants did discuss improvements in all 8 HRQoL domains, frequently regarding mobility and activities of daily living. Conclusion Results diverged, with quantitative results showing no significant improvement in HRQoL and qualitative results indicating participant perceived improvements in all domains of the PDQ-8. The program should be explored further, and longitudinal follow-up completed.
School-Based Management, Decentralization, and Citizen Control–A Perspective:

School-based management and teacher-parent empowerment have both currency and emotional ring. The terms have become a kind of rallying cry. But each term lacks definition and bad things can happen ...
Characterization of spray formed by diesel-water mixture jet injection into an air crossflow

Abstract This paper presents experimental results on spray characteristics of the water-diesel fuel mixture in air crossflow. Penetration of jet, droplet size distribution and mean droplet size are determined to characterize the near field jet and far field spray field for various mixtures of water and diesel which are mixed by using a static mixer before it is fed into to an injector. Both near filed visualization of jet and far field spray field indicate that the spray field formed by immiscible water/diesel mixture injection in a crossflow can be determined by assuming the nature of mixture jet at the exit of injector as quasi-steady injection of alternating water and diesel without significant mixing between them. Based on this observation, number-density/volume distributions are predicted from the measured drop size distribution of pure fluids at the same flow conditions by weighting those quantities by mass fraction of each fluid. The predicted distributions agree very well with the measured ones, confirming that the assumption is valid. The calculated droplet size from predicted droplet size distribution linearly increases as the content of water in mixture increases.
Accommodating Good-Faith Employers in Title VII Disparate Impact Cases

This article argues that good-faith employers who adopt honest and reasonable job policies or criteria should be more broadly accommodated in Title VII disparate impact cases. These cases arise under Title VII (and the ADEA and ADA) when an employer’s facially neutral job policy or criterion inadvertently but disproportionately affects individuals based on sex, race, color, national origin, religion, age, or disability. Unfortunately, our federal employment discrimination laws do not provide comparable defenses or accommodations for good-faith employers in these disparate impact (and related) cases. First, Title VII provides a “business necessity” defense. This complete defense is a narrow accommodation available only for a smaller subset of these good-faith employers – namely, those that can show that their job policy or criterion was related to successful performance of the job. Next, the ADEA provides a “reasonable factors other than age” defense. This complete defense is a broad accommodation generally available for all good-faith employers that can show that their job policy or criterion stemmed from reasonable, non-age considerations. Finally, the ADA provides not only a business necessity defense in disparate impact cases but also a supplemental “good-faith efforts” defense in closely related reasonable accommodation cases. This latter, partial defense is another broad accommodation generally available for all good-faith employers that make such efforts to adjust their policy or criterion for (or otherwise accommodate) a disabled individual. Addressing this unique asymmetry, this article makes two new contributions to existing employment discrimination literature. First, it proposes a partial “Good-Faith Defense” for such employers in Title VII disparate impact cases – a defense that reduces (rather than eliminates) employer liability. Second, this article uses a comprehensive, cross-contextual argument that explores fourteen different examples of good-faith accommodations (by Congress and the Supreme Court) under eight different federal employment laws. Ultimately, these multiple examples evidence a clear legislative and judicial “Good-Faith Accommodation Philosophy” that lies at the heart of the Good-Faith Defense.
Analysis of the 3D Object Reconstruction Accuracy in an Mi-17 Mixed Reality Simulator

The article is devoted to the interaction of a human with mixed reality systems. Mixed Reality (MR) allows for the integration of real world with a virtual world – real objects with computer-generated objects. A human who interacts with such a system receives both visual and tactile sensations. Thus, high reconstruction analysis of virtual objects and the corresponding real objects is necessary to ensure proper interaction of a human with this type of systems. The article aims to illustrate the results of the accuracy analysis of reconstructing flight controls into their virtual 3D models in a prototype of Mi-17 helicopter made in MR technology.
Pseudogenized Amelogenin Reveals Early Tooth Loss in True Toads (Anura: Bufonidae).

Extant anurans (frogs and toads) exhibit reduced dentition, ranging from a lack of mandibular teeth to complete edentulation, as observed in the true toads of the family Bufonidae. The evolutionary timeline of these reductions remains vague due to a poor fossil record. Previous studies have demonstrated an association between the lack of teeth in edentulous vertebrates and the pseudogenization of the major tooth enamel gene amelogenin (AMEL) through accumulation of deleterious mutations and the disruption of its coding sequence. In the present study we have harnessed the pseudogenization of AMEL as a molecular dating tool to correlate loss of dentition with genomic mutation patterns during the rise of the family Bufonidae. Specifically, we have utilized AMEL pseudogenes in three members of the family as a tool to estimate the putative date of edentulation in true toads. Comparison of AMEL sequences from Rhinella marina, Bufo gargarizans and Bufo bufo, with nine extant, dentulous frogs, revealed mutations confirming AMEL inactivation in Bufonidae. AMEL pseudogenes in modern bufonids also exhibited remarkably high 86-93% sequence identity among each other, with only a slight increase in substitution rate and relaxation of selective pressure, in comparison to functional copies in other anurans. Moreover, using selection intensity estimates and synonymous substitution rates, analysis of functional and pseudogenized AMEL resulted in an estimated inactivation window of 46-60 MYA in the lineage leading to modern true toads, a timeline that coincides with the rise of the family Bufonidae.
Strands, Powers, and Their Shades of Grey

Reggie Williams’ reflections on the lives of three significant activist- theologians – Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer – serve as the starting point for a consideration of the anti-racist elements in the ethics of James Wm McClendon Jr. Both Williams and McClendon exemplify a narrative approach to Christian ethics out of recognition of the possibilities and limitations that both our embodied selfhood and our cultural heritages bring to the ethical task. Other voices incorporated here are those of Glen Stassen, John Howard Yoder, and George F. R. Ellis.
Validation, analysis and annotation of cryo-EM structures.

The process of turning 2D micrographs into 3D atomic models of the imaged macromolecules has been under rapid development and scrutiny in the field of cryo-EM. Here, some important methods for validation at several stages in this process are described. Firstly, how Fourier shell correlation of two independent maps and phase randomization beyond a certain frequency address the assessment of map resolution is reviewed. Techniques for local resolution estimation and map sharpening are also touched upon. The topic of validating models which are either built de novo or based on a known atomic structure fitted into a cryo-EM map is then approached. Map–model comparison using Q-scores and Fourier shell correlation plots is used to assure the agreement of the model with the observed map density. The importance of annotating the model with B factors to account for the resolvability of individual atoms in the map is illustrated. Finally, the timely topic of detecting and validating water molecules and metal ions in maps that have surpassed ∼2 A resolution is described.
If My Blood Pressure Is High, Do I Take It to Heart? Behavioral Effects of Biomarker Collection in the Health and Retirement Study

Starting in 2006, respondents in the biennial U.S. Health and Retirement Study were asked to submit biomarkers every other wave and were notified of several results. Rates of undiagnosed high blood pressure and diabetes according to these biomarkers were 1.5 % and 0.7 %, respectively. An intent-to-treat analysis suggests that collection and notification had small effects on the average respondent and may have reduced health care utilization. Among respondents who received notification of potentially dangerous biomarker levels, subsequent rates of new diagnosis and associated pharmaceutical usage increased by 20 to 40 percentage points, an order of magnitude above baseline. High blood glucose A1C was associated with a 2.2 % drop in weight and an increase in exercise among respondents without a previous diagnosis of diabetes. Notifications appear also to have altered health behaviors by spouses, suggesting household responses to health maintenance. Biomarker collection seems to have altered circumstances for an interesting minority of HRS respondents.
Security analysts' earnings forecasts as a measure of firm performance: An empirical exploration of its domain

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the domain of security analysts' earnings forecasts as a valid measure of firm performance.Design/methodology/approach – A survey instrument was developed and sent to 1,350 security analysts to ascertain the criteria they used in evaluating firm performance.Findings – Factor analysis indicates strong support for organizational level variables, such as top management, CEO ability, corporate culture, size as opposed to environment and industry level variables.Research limitations/implications – The domain of security analysts' earnings forecasts is broader than traditional accounting‐ and market‐based measures and more closely matches the realm of the strategic management field.Practical implications – The study presents new evidence that key organizational variables influence security analysts' earnings forecasts.Originality/value – The present study is the first to the best of one's knowledge that ascertains the factors that security analysts utilize i...
Rapid in vivo apparent diffusion coefficient mapping of hyperpolarized (13) C metabolites.

Purpose Hyperpolarized 13C magnetic resonance allows for the study of real-time metabolism in vivo, including significant hyperpolarized 13C lactate production in many tumors. Other studies have shown that aggressive and highly metastatic tumors rapidly transport lactate out of cells. Thus, the ability to not only measure the production of hyperpolarized 13C lactate but also understand its compartmentalization using diffusion-weighted MR will provide unique information for improved tumor characterization. Methods We used a bipolar, pulsed-gradient, double spin echo imaging sequence to rapidly generate diffusion-weighted images of hyperpolarized 13C metabolites. Our methodology included a simultaneously acquired B1 map to improve apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) accuracy and a diffusion-compensated variable flip angle scheme to improve ADC precision. Results We validated this sequence and methodology in hyperpolarized 13C phantoms. Next, we generated ADC maps of several hyperpolarized 13C metabolites in a normal rat, rat brain tumor, and prostate cancer mouse model using both preclinical and clinical trial-ready hardware. Conclusion ADC maps of hyperpolarized 13C metabolites provide information about the localization of these molecules in the tissue microenvironment. The methodology presented here allows for further studies to investigate ADC changes due to disease state that may provide unique information about cancer aggressiveness and metastatic potential. Magn Reson Med 74:622–633, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Output spectrum from 14-MeV neutron generators: Rapid estimation and influence in cross-section measurements and activation analysis☆☆☆

Abstract Neutron generators which use the reaction 3 H( d , n ) 4 He are being used extensively in 14 MeV neutron cross-section determinations and in activation analysis. The frequent assumption that the generated neutrons are monoenergetic is not always valid and, consequently, the nuclear chemist must know his neutron spectrum to appraise his results and conclusions. A simple, approximate method to estimate such spectra is given in Part I. The discussion is illustrated, as it is presented, by a practical example. The neutrons impinging on a sample are divided into four groups. The energy ranges of each of these groups are obtained by scattering calculations; the corresponding neutron percentages result from probability considerations. The influence of the 14-MeV neutron spectrum in flux measurements, cross-section determinations, and activation analysis is discussed in Part II, where means to appraise irradiation geometries and to calculate and correct for experimental errors are also given.
The North Atlantic Oscillation

The North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) dictates climate variability from the eastern seaboard of the United States to Siberia and from the Arctic to the subtropical Atlantic, especially during winter. It strongly affects agricultural yields, water management, fish inventories, and terrestrial ecology. In their Perspective, Hurrell, Kushnir, and Visbeck report recent research into the NAO discussed at an American Geophysical Union Chapman Conference at the end of 2000. Much remains to be learned about the NAO, but it seems increasingly less likely that natural variability is the cause for the recent upward NAO trend.
Net Neutrality Through Open Interfaces

Net neutrality was the most contentious communications policy issue considered by Congress during 2005-2006. The issue is the result of a fragmented communications policy unable to deal with technology convergence. In this paper, we develop a net neutrality policy based on the layered structure of the Internet that gracefully accommodates convergence. Our framework distinguishes between discrimination in high barrier-to-entry network infrastructure and in low barrier-to-entry applications. The policy prohibits use of Internet infrastructure to produce an uneven playing field in Internet applications. In this manner, the policy restricts an Internet service provider's ability to discriminate in a manner that extracts oligopoly rents, while simultaneously ensuring that ISPs can use desirable forms of network management. We illustrate how this net neutrality policy can draw upon current communications law through draft statute language. We believe this approach is well grounded in both technology and policy, and that it illustrates a middle ground that may even be somewhat agreeable to the opposing forces on this issue.
Involutive Spacetime Distributions and p-Brane Dynamics

We propose a precise definition of multidimensional fluids generated by self-gravitating extended objects such as strings and membranes: a p-dimensional perfect fluid is a smooth involutive p-dimensional distribution on a spacetime, each integral manifold of which is a timelike, connected, immersed submanifold of dimension, p -- representing the history of a (p-1)-dimensional extended object. This geometric formulation of perfect fluids of higher dimensions naturally leads to the associated stress-energy tensor. Furthermore, the laws of temporal evolution and symmetries of such systems are derived, in general, from the Einstein field equations and the integrability conditions. We also present a matter model based on a 2-dimensional involutive distribution, and it is shown that the stress-energy tensor for self-gravitating strings gives rise to a non-trivial spherically symmetric spacetime with a naked singularity.
A neural network based VLSI vector quantizer for real-time image compression

A trainable VLSI neuroprocessor for adaptive vector quantization based upon the frequency-sensitive competitive learning algorithm has been developed for high-speed high-ratio image compression applications. Simulation results show that such an algorithm is capable of producing good-quality reconstructed image at compression ratios of more than 20. This design includes a fully parallel vector quantizer and a pipelined codebook generator which obtains a time complexity O(1) for each quantization vector. A 5*5-dimensional vector quantizer prototype chip has been designed, fabricated and tested. It contains 64 inner-product neural units and an extendable winner-take-all block. This mixed-signal chip occupies a compact Si area of 4.6*6.8 mm/sup 2/ in 2.0- mu m scalable CMOS technology. >
Failure is Not an Option: An Essay on What Legal Educators Can Learn from Nasa's Signature Pedagogies to Improve Student Outcomes

The story of the Apollo 13 mission is just one of the many inspirational stories from the space program. As 2010 marks the anniversary of the Apollo 13 mission, this essay honors NASA’s success during that mission by examining three of NASA’s signature training practices - simulation, teamwork, and optimism - and discussing how those practices could be used effectively in legal education to prepare students for the realities of practice.
Anthocyanin degradation in red Norland potatoes (259.2)

Anthocyanins are water-soluble, polyphenolic compounds responsible for coloration in fruits and vegetables, and are known to display antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic and prebiotic properties in human...
Immunochemistry of the Streptococcal Group R Cell Wall Polysaccharide Antigen

Abstract The group R streptococcal group antigen has been shown to be a polysaccharide located at the surface of the cell wall of the organism. The antigen was extracted from cell walls in 0.05 n HCl or 5% trichloracetic acid at 100 C, from whole cells at room temperature in 0.85% NaCl or 0.1 m acetate (pH 5.0), and by sonic oscillation. The antigen is largely destroyed when extracted from whole cells in 0.05 n HCl at 100 C. Acetate is recommended for routine extraction. The antigen extracted by sonic treatment was separated into six immunologically active fractions on diethylaminoethyl-Sephadex. The fractions were found to possess a common antigen which exhibited similar properties on immunodiffusion and immunoelectrophoresis. The purified antigen did not react with any other streptococcal group antisera. Adsorption of group R serum with the antigen removed all antibodies against whole cell antigen extracts of R cells. Chemical and enzymatic analysis of three fractions showed that the antigen was composed of d-glucose, d-galactose, rhamnose, and glucosamine. No significant quantities of phosphorus, glycerol, ribitol, or muramic acid were present. Significant inhibition of the quantitative precipitin determination by d-galactose and stachyose indicated that galactose in terminal alpha linkage was the immunodominant hexose in the antigen. d-Glucose and d-glucosamine possessed a partial inhibitory activity. N-acetyl-d-glucosamine and l-rhamnose did not produce significant inhibition. The results indicate that the R antigen is an immunologically specific structure which serves as a reliable means of identification of these streptococci as a serological group.
Characterization of ΔN-Zfp36l2 Mutant Associated with Arrest of Early Embryonic Development and Female Infertility *

The zinc finger protein 36-like 2, Zfp36l2, has been implicated in female mouse infertility, because an amino-terminal truncation mutation (ΔN-Zfp36l2) leads to two-cell stage arrest of embryos derived from the homozygous mutant female gamete. Zfp36l2 is a member of the tristetraprolin (TTP) family of CCCH tandem zinc finger proteins that can bind to transcripts containing AU-rich elements (ARE), resulting in deadenylation and destabilization of these transcripts. I show here that the mouse Zfp36l2 is composed of two exons and a single intron, encoding a polypeptide of 484 amino acids. I observed that ΔN-Zfp36l2 protein is similar to both wild-type Zfp36l2 and TTP (Zfp36) in that it shuttles between the cytoplasm and nucleus, binds to RNAs containing AREs, and promotes deadenylation of a model ARE transcript in a cell-based co-transfection assay. Surprisingly, in contrast to TTP, Zfp36l2 mRNA and protein were rapidly down-regulated upon LPS exposure in bone marrow-derived macrophages. The ΔN-Zfp36l2 protein was substantially more resistant to stimulus-induced down-regulation than the WT. I postulate that the embryonic arrest linked to the ΔN-Zfp36l2 truncation might be related to its resistance to stimulus-induced down-regulation.
Elemental and stable isotope variations of organic matter from a terrestrial sequence containing the Cretaceous/Tertiary boundary at York Canyon, New Mexico

Abstract Elemental and isotopic composition of organic matter from a terrestrial sequence including the palynological Cretaceous/Tertiary (K-T) boundary together with an Ir anomaly at York Canyon, New Mexico, record information about paleoclimatological and environmental conditions. Six layers of coal, carbonaceous shale and mudstone with high contents of organic material were selected for analysis. A Late Cretaceous coal bed 10 m below the K-T boundary and an Early Tertiary coal bed containing the K-T iridium anomaly at its base were sampled intensively. In the lower bed, the isotopic ratios 13 C/ 12 C, 15 N/ 14 N,andD/H and the elemental ratios C/N andN/H , all varied sympathetically with one another over depth. In contrast, in the upper coal layer, only the D/H,C/N,andN/H ratios showed some coupling. Immediately above the K-T boundary, the δ 13 C values displayed a long-term shift of 1.8‰ to more negative values, while the hydrogen isotope ratios in these samples did not change significantly. We interpret the covariations in both coal layers as sympathetic responses of the isotopic and elemental ratios to climatic and environmental changes, as have been observed for younger sedimentary organic matter. The long-term δ 13 C shift during the early Tertiary is similar to the trend observed for δ 13 C values of marine carbonates. Our data thus support the proposal that the carbon cycle was perturbed globally by the effects of a drastically decreased marine bioproductivity along the K-T transition. The uncoupling of variations in the climatically sensitive isotopic and elemental ratios seen in the Early Tertiary coal bed provides evidence for major geochemical and environmental changes in the York Canyon area at the end of the Mesozoic. On the other hand, the constancy of δD values in the organic matter deposited at and above the K-T boundary gives no indication of significant changes in the hydrologic/climatic regimes as recorded in the D/H ratios at the site for several thousand years following the event which produced the high Ir concentrations. Our results provide constraints on models that have been advanced to explain that event and its consequences.
Intimacy, Passion, and Commitment among Married Individuals: Further Testing of the Triangular Theory of Love

The Triangular Theory of Love has created much interest among researchers in relational communication. Previous attempts at evaluating the theory have proven problematic. Specifically, the problems centered around the measurement of the theory's three components of intimacy, passion, commitment. Recent research, which employed a new measure, offered support for the theory's primary assumptions. To expand upon this, the current study factor analyzed data from a sample of 213 married individuals. Current results provided support for the triangular theory's primary assumptions. The principal components factor analysis with varimax rotation indicated support for three distinct and reliable factors. The three components were also significantly related to scores for relational satisfaction. Stepwise regression analysis indicated that each component was a significant predictor of relational satisfaction. Men scored significantly higher on intimacy than women.
Analytic results for SU(2)×U(1)Y lattice gauge theory with variable-length Higgs fields

Abstract We present analytic results for the electroweak SU(2)×U(1) Y lattice gauge theory with variable-length Higgs fields and discuss their implications for the phase structure of this theory.
Agent selection for regression on attribute distributed data

This paper introduces a modeling framework for multivariate regression with agents observing attribute-distributed data, coordinated by a fusion center. Under this model, a prototype algorithm resembling the L 2 boosting algorithm can effectively minimize the training error, yet it suffers from over-training and slow convergence. A thorough comparison among the agents can speed up convergence of training error and eliminate irrelevant variables, yet it imposes a high demand for data transmission. In this paper, an intelligent agent selection algorithm (based on heuristic functions) is proposed to speed up convergence at low cost of data transmission. The new algorithm can achieve an ensemble estimator of better generalization error with less communication, which is verified by simulation on artificial and real data sets.
More on the multidimensional surface intersection problem and classical trajectory surface hopping

We respond to the previous Comment by Mead and Truhlar pointing out a circularity in our published analysis of a trajectory passing through a locally avoided intersection of potential energy surfaces in a two state system. We did not distinguish clearly in that analysis between properties of the physical system and those of our model for it. Our ‘‘reduction’’ to a one‐dimensional problem is rather a ‘‘mapping’’ onto a one‐dimensional model. We present a clearer description of the actual procedures we used to demonstrate that our method is valid for the types of systems to which we have applied it.
Maintenance of behaviour by secondary reinforcement

Summary Stimuli acquire secondary reinforcing properties by association with primary reinforcement. That is, they act as signals (discriminitive stimuli) that primary reinforcement is forthcoming. When behaviour (R1) is maintained on the basis of secondary reinforcement further behaviour (R2) is also normally necessary—that which acquires primary reinforcement and maintains the primary-secondary association. The question is raised as to whether behaviour is better controlled when secondary reinforcement is quickly acquired but then much work is required for primary reinforcement in its presence, or when much work is required for secondary reinforcement which is then quickly followed by primary reinforcement. The performances of four albino rats reinforced on various chain FRFR schedules favour the first alternative.
34. Mechanism of therapeutic benefit with dorsal column stimulation using a computational model of the spinal cord

Objective Dorsal column stimulation (DCS) is a widely used therapy to treat refractory neuropathic pain of the trunk and limbs. The mechanisms by which such stimulation achieves pain relief, however, have yet to be fully elucidated and may even be contrary to one of the standard theories of pain, ‘ gate control theory’ (‘ gate theory’). Better understanding of these mechanisms may lead to more effective use of the therapy. Materials and methods We created a computational model of one level of the lumbar enlargement region circuitry in the human spinal cord using a bottom-up approach involving approximately 360,000 individually rendered neurons and dendritic processing of 60 million synapses on a 0.25 ms time scale. Neuropathic and acute ‘ pain’ signals were created in this model by activating topographically isolated regions of excitatory interneurons and C-fiber inputs, respectively, to the cord circuitry as well, driving analogous regions of wide-dynamic range (WDR) neurons in the model. Stimulation of topographically related dorsal column fibres in a manner similar to the distribution and rate they are activated using DCS, was then added to the model for each of the two types of pain representation using a in house finite element model of the spinal cord geometry. Results The analysis of model data shows that, in contradistinction to the standard gate theory, nociceptive and chronic neuropathic pain signalling are distinct, with DCS affecting predominantly the chronic neuropathic signal only, by inhibiting centrally sensitized pathological neuron groups and ultimately also the WDR pain transmission cells, which corresponds to the clinical picture of DCS therapy. Conclusion The data in this study offers an alternative explanation to the mechanism of DCS described in the gate theory of pain based on a detailed computational model of the spinal cord.
Granular cell tumor of the common bile duct

Granular cell tumor most commonly appears in the tongue and skin, but has been found in varied locations (10). There are now 14 reported cases of the lesion occurring in the common bile duct. In most of these 14 cases, it has affected black females in their thirties. The lesion is most often benign. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of obstructive jaundice secondary to bile duct tumors, especially if other granular cell tumors are present. This is the first reported case of pancreaticoduodenectomy for granular cell tumor of the common bile duct.
Parasitoid theory: From aggregation to dispersal.

Models that stabilize the Nicholson-Bailey equations of population interactions have dominated theory about insect pests and their natural enemies. However, nonequilibrium behavior is conspicuous in real interactions, and versions of these models that are based on extremely concise descriptions of aggregation of risk to pests are simplistic in ignoring density relationships and movement within generations. Recent theory is less concerned with equilibrium. Within generations, attention to details of enemy movement, foraging and aggregation leads to models that actually predict pest mortality patterns for specific cases. Among generations, dispersal is a key facet of nonequilibrium persistence. Dispersing parasitoids can cause high local mortalities of host insects.
Measurement of Bimaterial Interface Fracture Parameters Using Modified SEN Beam Specimens and Coherent Gradient Sensing

A modified edge notched flexural (MENF) specimen in a three point loading configuration is proposed for testing crack initiation toughness of bimaterial interfaces. An interface with a relatively large stiffness mismatch between two dissimilar materials, Aluminum-PMMA, is considered. The deformations near interface cracks are mapped in real time using a full-field optical method called Coherent Gradient Sensing (CGS). The homogeneous counterparts of MENF specimens have produced a fairly wide range of mode-mixities in our previous studies. This paper presents details regarding the extension of the model to bimaterial interface crack tip measurements and fracture toughness testing. The CGS measurements are used to extract both crack tip stress intensity factors as well as mode mixities using plane elastostatic interface crack tip fields. The results are compared with the ones from a beam model. The load data corresponding to crack initiation is used for evaluating fracture toughness of the interface as a function of mode mixity.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Regulation of apoptosis in S49 cells

Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is a highly regulated physiological process by which individual cells die and are removed from a given population. This process, defined by both morphological and biochemical characteristics, has been extensively studied in the glucocorticoid-induced immature thymocyte model. In the present study we explore the effects of glucocorticoids on variants of the S49.1 thymocyte without (S49-NEO) or with (S49-bcl-2) the bcl-2 proto-oncogene. In S49-NEO cells dexamethasone induced a time- and dose-dependent loss of viability and increase in DNA internucleosomal fragmentation (a biochemical hallmark of apoptosis). Glucocorticoid treatment was also associated with an apoptotic morphology (cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation) and the effects of this steroid could be reversed by the glucocorticoid antagonist RU486. In contrast, S49-bcl-2 cells showed no change in viability, DNA fragmentation or apoptotic morphology. Interestingly, the apoptotic effects of glucocorticoid in S49-NEO cells were mimicked by the translation inhibitor cycloheximide and the zinc chelator 1,10-phenanthroline, suggesting that zinc and translational events are necessary to maintain the nonapoptotic state. Finally, nuclease activity was extracted from glucocorticoid-treated S49-NEO cells but not control cells. Together the results further define the effects of glucocorticoids on these cells and provide insight into the mechanisms controlling apoptosis.
Characteristics of inhibition of gastric electrolyte secretion by insulin

The composition of gastric juice in 9 dogs equipped with fistulas and stimulated by a continuous infusion of histamine was studied after the superimposition of an injection of insulin in doses from 0.15 to 0.9 U./kg. which produced progressively greater inhibition of electrolyte secretion. The earliest evidence of inhibition was a reduction of K+ in gastric juice after 15 min. The gastric K+ later decreased to values below plasma K+. In the succeeding periods Cl− and volume decreased together, and after 45 min. H+ fell steeply and Na+ increased reciprocally. At maximum effect, the gastric juice became hypotonic to plasma and pepsin output increased. The discussion emphasizes that the constituents of gastric juice are secreted by different mechanisms which may be linked in the intact mucosa but which may be independently affected by an inhibitor such as insulin. It is also suggested that the disturbance of K+ secretion may be an important part of the inhibition phenomenon.
Abortion as a Social Problem: The Construction of “Opposite” Solutions in Sweden and the United States

Analyzing abortion as a social problem in two national contexts, this paper extends the social constructionist approach to a historical comparative problem. The two abortion problems analyzed, one in the United States, 1840–1880, and the other in Sweden, 1910–1940, shared many significant elements, including medical lobbying, pronatalist and class-specific eugenic concerns, and uncertainty around women's changing social and economic roles. And yet, the effort to curb the number of abortions led to “opposite” policy solutions in these two nations, with the United States criminalizing a previously unregulated practice, and Sweden liberalizing a previously harsh law against abortion. These different policy solutions were grounded in the different understandings of abortion that the respective claimsmaking processes produced, including different perceptions of the women having abortions, why they were having them, and what could feasibly be done about it. I argue here that the different historical legacies of abortion, the ability of the state to adopt and enforce policies, and the larger cultural arena of public problems influenced the abortion problem's specific trajectory in each nation.