cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Acidic species and chloride depletion in coarse aerosol particles in the US east coast.

Abstract To investigate the interactions of water-soluble acidic species associated with coarse mode aerosol particles (1.8–10 μm) and chlorine depletion, ten sets of size-segregated aerosol samples were collected by a 10-stage Micro-Orifice Uniform Deposit Impactor (MOUDI) in Newark, New Jersey on the U.S. east coast. The samples were grouped into two categories according to the air-mass back trajectories and mass ratios of sodium to magnesium and calcium: Group I was primarily impacted by marine air mass and Group II was dominated by the continental air mass. In Group I, the concentrations of coarse mode nitrate and chloride depletion showed a strong correlation (R2 = 0.88). Without considering other cations, nitrate was found to account for all of the chloride depletion in coarse particles for most samples. The association of coarse mode nitrate with sea-salt particles is favored when the mass ratio of sodium to calcium is approximately equal to or greater than unity. Excess sulfate accounts for a maximum of 33% of chloride depletion in the coarse particles. Regarding chloride depletion in the different particle sizes, excess nitrate and sulfate account for 89% of the chloride depletion in the particle size range of 1.8–3.2 μm in the sample from July 13–14; all of the determined dicarboxylic acids and mono-carboxylic acids cannot compensate for the rest of the chloride depletion. In Group II, high percentages of chloride depletion were not observed. With nitrate being dominant in chlorine depletion observed at this location, N-containing species from pollution emissions may have profound impact on atmospheric composition through altering chlorine chemistry in this region.
Link correlation and network coding in broadcast protocols for wireless sensor networks

Correlated packet reception can be advantageous for sensor network broadcast protocols. By exploiting link correlation information, researchers have devised efficient single packet flooding protocols. In this work, we use testbed experiments to gain insight into the behavior of link correlation-aware broadcast protocols. We observe that, in the presence of varying link correlation, traditional link correlation-aware flooding mechanisms do not perform well in disseminating multiple packets due to reliability requirements and redundant transmissions. We conduct simulations to compare existing link correlation-aware flooding protocols with two versions of a multi-packet dissemination protocol, where one uses network coding and the other exploits both link correlation and network coding. Simulation results indicate the potential of the latter approach to be used as a reliable multi-packet dissemination protocol in practical scenarios. We also compare this protocol with existing multi-packet dissemination protocols, and reveal cases when certain protocols perform better than others.
Treatment of chronic woodchuck hepatitis virus infection in the eastern woodchuck (marmota monax) with nucleoside analogues is predictive of therapy for chronic hepatitis B virus infection in humans

The woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) and its natural host, the Eastern woodchuck (Marmota monax), have been established as a model of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-induced disease. Several published studies have used this experimental animal model system to demonstrate potential antiviral therapies for chronic HBV infections. However, there has been little comparative information available on compounds used in clinical anti-HBV studies in WHV-infected woodchucks, thereby making interpretations of the potential relative effectiveness of new antiviral agents in humans more difficult. In this report, using a series of placebo-controlled studies, we compared the relative effectiveness of several nucleoside analogues that have been used in clinical trials for the treatment of chronic HBV infection against WHV replication in chronically infected woodchucks. Adenine-5'-arabinoside monophosphate (Ara-AMP [vidarabine]), ribavirin, (-)beta-L-2',3'-dideoxy-3'-thiacytidine (3TC [lamivudine]), and famciclovir (oral prodrug of penciclovir) induced depressions in viremia and intrahepatic WHV-DNA replication that were consistent with their relative effectiveness in anti-HBV human clinical trials. As observed in HBV-infected patients, 3' azido-3'-deoxythymidine (AZT [zidovudine]) had no effect on WHV replication in these studies. These experimental results more firmly establish chronic WHV infection in woodchucks as an accurate and predictive model for antiviral therapies against chronic HBV infection in humans and provide a baseline for comparative antiviral effects of other experimental antiviral agents in the WHV/woodchuck model system.
Communicating health information in the California foster care system: Problems and recommendations☆

Abstract This paper discusses health information management in the foster care system in California, particularly communication between care givers, information transmission, and record-keeping. These processes were examined in 14 California counties through questionnaires and in-depth interviews with foster care administrators, social workers, foster parents, and health care providers. The study demonstrated variability in medical and mental health evaluations of foster children, and lack of coordination in the gathering and transmission of medical information in the 14 counties. Medical histories, reports on medical evaluations, and information on ongoing care fail to be communicated routinely to social workers and foster parents. Because foster children demonstrate a high level of chronic health conditions, transmission of information about evaluations and treatments is essential. Recommendations address the difficulties in adequately communicating health information as well as meeting bureaucratic requirements.
Rate of Tube Building and Sediment Particle Size Selection During Tube Construction by the Tanaid Crustacean, Leptochelia dubia

In estuaries, organic coatings play an important role in the aggregation of mineral particles. Particles acquire adhesive surfaces through the activities of bacteria and microalgae in the sediment and water column. Eventually, they may become incorporated into larger aggregates and structures, such as tubes, constructed by infaunal benthic animals. Where these structures are large enough, and the adhesive bonds between particles strong enough, individual particles may remain in place at bed shear stresses otherwise strong enough to cause sediment transport. This study examined the aggregation of particles during tube building by the ubiquitous tanaid crustaceanLeptochelia dubia. Particle size selection and rates of tube building were determined as functions of animal size, temperature, and the presence or absence of bacteria and microalgae. These data were used to model seasonal patterns of sediment binding by a population ofL. dubia in Yaquina Bay, Oregon, taking into account seasonal changes in sizes and abundance of animals. Rates of tube building (mass of sediment per day) increased with animal size, but temperature had no effect. The model indicated that the field population ofL. dubia bound sediment into tubes at a gross rate of 350 g m−2 d−1, averaged over a 2-yr period. Seasonally, gross rates of tube building were predicted to range from 70 g m−2 d−1 (during late winter-early spring) to 600 g m−2 d−1 (during autumn). When constructing tubes from sterile sediments, small animals selected silt-sized particles while large animals discriminated against these particles. The presence of microbes in sediments tended to reduce particle selectivity.
Using SERVQUAL to assess the quality of e-learning experience

Distance learning programs have been dramatically expanding in accordance with demand. Assessment of the quality of e-learning has become a strategic issue, one that is critical to program survival. In this study we propose a modified SERVQUAL instrument for assessing e-learning quality. The instrument consists of five dimensions: Assurance, Empathy, Responsiveness, Reliability, and Website Content. Data analysis from 203 e-learning students shows that four out of these five dimensions (except Reliability) play a significant role in perceived e-learning quality, which in turn affects learners' satisfaction and future intentions to enroll in online courses. Managerial implications of the major findings are provided.
Reduction of Escherichia coli O157:H7 by stimulated Pediococcus acidilactici.

This study was conducted to determine if stimulating the growth of meat starter culture (Pediococcus acidilactici) in a laboratory medium (Brain Heart Infusion broth + 2·3% NaCl + 1·5% sucrose; LBHI) and during meat fermentation would control Escherichia coli O157:H7. In LBHI medium without P. acidilactici, the numbers of E. coli O157:H7 increased from 4·00 to 8·34 log10 cfu ml−1, whereas in the presence of P. acidilactici (≈6·0 log10 cfu ml−1) in LBHI, LBHIM (LBHI + 0·005% MnSO4), LBHIO (LBHI + 0·3 unit ml−1 OxyraseTM), and LBHIMO (LBHI + M + O), the numbers of E. coli O157:H7 increased from 4·00 to 8·05, 7·50, 7·99, and 6·50 log10 cfu ml−1, respectively, after incubation at 40 °C for 15 h. During salami fermentation, the numbers of E. coli O157:H7 changed from 7·00 to 6·40 and 5·10 log10 cfu g−1 without and with P. acidilactici (≈7·0 log10 cfu g−1), respectively. Stimulated P. acidilactici by M, O, and MO further reduced the number of E. coli O157:H7 from 7·00 to 4·00, 4·80, and 3·65 log10 cfu g−1, respectively. The combination of MO was a better growth stimulator for P. acidilactici, which controlledE. coli O157:H7 in both systems (P < 0·05).
Precision nuclear targets for Drell-Yan cross section measurements at 800 GeV

Targets of iron, tungsten, carbon, and calcium of areal densities 2.3 to 5.8 g/cm/sup 2/ were fabricated to high precision for a fixed-target experiment performed in 1988 at Fermilab to measure relative Drell-Yan cross sections. The experiment used 800-GeV protons at an intensity of 2 x 10/sup 12/ protons per 23-second spill. Areal densities were determined to an accuracy of approximately 1 part in 10/sup 4/. The calcium targets were vacuum-encapsulated in stainless steel by electron-beam welding. 1 ref., 5 figs., 4 tabs.
Immunological mechanisms in multiple sclerosis

Abstract Multiple sclerosis (MS) remains a leading cause of neurologic disability among young adults. Clinical manifestations of the disease result from immune-mediated demyelination of the central nervous system. Most patients experience new symptoms in a relapsing-remitting pattern, although the course is highly variable from person to person and even in the same individual over time. Recent neuropathological studies reveal that in addition to the surrounding myelin sheath, nerve axons themselves are targets of injury in MS lesions. Characterization of the inflammatory infiltrates present in MS brain and spinal cord tissue shows that active lesions can be segregated into 1 of 4 subtypes, with each individual having only a single pattern of involvement. Studies in animal models demonstrate that a number of myelin proteins can become immune system targets resulting in demyelination, and these models have also served to define multiple immunological mechanisms of disease. Translational studies using peripheral blood samples have characterized differences in the various myelin protein-reactive immune responses of MS patients and controls, and these investigations have validated some, but not all, of the disease mechanisms uncovered in animals. Adaptive and innate immunity both appear to contribute to disease pathogenesis within the target tissue of the central nervous system. Immunomodulatory therapies have been developed that partially arrest disease relapses and progression. Studies to dissect how these agents work have shed light on underlying disease mechanisms in MS. More effective interventions in the future will need to target multiple points in disease pathways.
Crystal size distribution (CSD) in rocks and the kinetics and dynamics of crystallization II: Makaopuhi lava lake

Crystal size distribution (CSD) theory has been applied to drill core samples from Makaopuhi lava lake, Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii. Plagioclase and Fe-Ti oxide size distribution spectra were measured and population densities (n)were calculated and analyzed using a steady state crystal population balance equation: n=n0 exp(-L/Gτ). Slopes on ln(n) versus crystal size (L) plots determine the parameter Gτ, a. product of average crystal growth rate (G) and average crystal growth time (τ). The intercept is J/G where J is nucleation rate. Known temperature-depth distributions for the lava lake provide an estimate of effective growth time (τ), allowing nucleation and growth rates to be determined that are independent of any kinetic model. Plagioclase growth rates decrease with increasing crystallinity (9.9−5.4×10−11 cm/s), as do plagioclase nucleation rates (33.9−1.6×10−3/cm3 s). Ilmenite growth and nucleation rates also decrease with increasing crystallinity (4.9−3.4 ×10−10 cm/s and 15−2.2×10−3/cm3 s, respectively). Magnetite growth and nucleation rates are also estimated from the one sample collected below the magnetite liquidus (G =2.9×10−10 cm/s, J=7.6×10−2/cm3 s). Moments of the population density function were used to examine the change in crystallization rates with time. Preliminary results suggest that total crystal volume increases approximately linearly with time after ∼50% crystallization; a more complete set of samples is needed for material with <50% crystals to define the entire crystallization history. Comparisons of calculated crystallization rates with experimental data suggests that crystallization in the lava lake occurred at very small values of undercooling. This interpretation is consistent with proposed thermal models of magmatic cooling, where heat loss is balanced by latent heat production to maintain equilibrium cooling.
Protein Kinase Cε–Dependent MARCKS Phosphorylation in Neonatal and Adult Rat Ventricular Myocytes

The myristoylated, alanine-rich protein kinase C substrate (MARCKS) is a cytoskeletal protein implicated in the regulation of cell spreading, stress fiber formation, and focal adhesion assembly in nonmuscle cells. However, its precise role in cardiomyocyte growth, and its PKC-dependent regulation have not been fully explored. In this report, we show that MARCKS is expressed and phosphorylated under basal conditions in cultured neonatal and adult rat ventricular myocytes (NRVM and ARVM, respectively). The PKC activators phenylephrine, angiotensin II, and endothelin-1 (ET) further increased MARCKS phosphorylation, with ET inducing the greatest response. To determine which PKC isoenzyme was responsible for agonist-induced MARCKS phosphorylation, NRVM and ARVM were infected with replication-defective adenoviruses (Adv) encoding wildtype (wt) and constitutively active (ca) mutants of PKCepsilon, PKCdelta, and PKCalpha. Only PKCepsilon increased phosphorylated MARCKS (pMARCKS). In contrast, Adv-mediated overexpression of a dominant-negative (dn) mutant of PKCepsilon reduced basal and ET-stimulated pMARCKS. dnPKCepsilon overexpression also prevented ET-induced, apparent co-localization of pMARCKS with f-actin staining structures. Adv-mediated overexpression of GFP-tagged, wtMARCKS (wtMARCKS-GFP) increased phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and also increased NRVM surface area. In contrast, overexpression of a GFP-tagged, non-phosphorylatable (np) MARCKS mutant (npMARCKS-GFP) decreased basal and ET-induced endogenous MARCKS and FAK phosphorylation, and blocked the ET-induced increase in NRVM surface area. We conclude that MARCKS is expressed in cardiomyocytes, is phosphorylated by PKCepsilon, and participates in the regulation of FAK phosphorylation and cell spreading.
Soviet Piracy of U.S High-Tech Secrets

The explosive expansion of high technology internationally threatens the United States with a nettlesome problem now and in the decade to come. The Soviet Union has increased its espionage to steal high-tech secrets in order to increase its military strength while bolstering a shaky economy. A major national concern is how to protect national security without damaging research and development of new technologies. This paper examines the motivations of the Soviets, current U.S. efforts to combat this threat, and some measures to deal with illegal technology transfers.
Thermal analysis of fibrous substrates containing crosslinked polyols

Abstract Various structurally diverse fibrous substrates (e.g., cellulosics, polyolefins, polyesters and fiber blends) have been treated with solutions of low molecular weight polyethylene glycols ( M n 1000 and 1450) containing an appropriate crosslinking agent (a polyfunctional methylolamide, DMDHEU) and a mixed acid catalyst. The crosslinked polyols are subsequently bound to the fabrics by curing under various conditions, and possess enthalpies of fusion and crystallization ( H f and H c ) at different melting ( T m ) and crystallization temperatures ( Tc ). These thermal properties have been observed to vary due to the degree of crosslinking in the amorphous and crystalline regions of the semi-crystalline polyols bound to the various fibrous substrates.
Comparison of Line-of-Sight Magnetograms Taken by the Solar Dynamics Observatory/Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager and Solar and Heliospheric Observatory/Michelson Doppler Imager

We compare line-of-sight magnetograms from the Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager (HMI) onboard the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) and the Michelson Doppler Imager (MDI) onboard the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO). The line-of-sight magnetic signal inferred from the calibrated MDI data is greater than that derived from the HMI data by a factor of 1.40. This factor varies somewhat with center-to-limb distance. An upper bound to the random noise for the 1′′ resolution HMI 720-second magnetograms is 6.3 Mx cm−2, and 10.2 Mx cm−2 for the 45-second magnetograms. Virtually no p-mode leakage is seen in the HMI magnetograms, but it is significant in the MDI magnetograms. 12-hour and 24-hour periodicities are detected in strong fields in the HMI magnetograms. The newly calibrated MDI full-disk magnetograms have been corrected for the zero-point offset and underestimation of the flux density. The noise is 26.4 Mx cm−2 for the MDI one-minute full-disk magnetograms and 16.2 Mx cm−2 for the five-minute full-disk magnetograms observed with four-arcsecond resolution. The variation of the noise over the Sun’s disk found in MDI magnetograms is likely due to the different optical distortions in the left- and right-circular analyzers, which allows the granulation and p-mode to leak in as noise. Saturation sometimes seen in sunspot umbrae in MDI magnetograms is caused by the low intensity and the limitation of the onboard computation. The noise in the HMI and MDI line-of-sight magnetic-field synoptic charts appears to be fairly uniform over the entire map. The noise is 2.3 Mx cm−2 for HMI charts and 5.0 Mx cm−2 for MDI charts. No evident periodicity is found in the HMI synoptic charts.
Corporate social responsibility attribute rankings

This research presents the findings of a rank order evaluation of corporate social responsibility attributes by a target public (N = 72) of a contemporary corporate social responsibility campaign. The results indicate that publics value corporate honesty above other corporate social responsibility behaviors.
Pleomorphic reticulum cell sarcoma, monoclonal gammopathy and amyloidosis. An immunoperoxidase study

Pleomorphic reticulum cell sarcoma, a histologic variant of the histiocytic lymphomas, presented as an abdominal mass in a 52-year-old woman. Extensive amyloid deposition was present within the tumor mass and an M-component (IgG Lambda) was identified in the serum. Direct immunoperoxidase staining of tissue sections demonstrated the same monoclonal immunoglobulin to be present within the neoplastic cells, presumptive evidence of their ability to both synthesize and secrete immunoglobulin. The presence of amyloid within this patient was probably the direct result of the tissue deposition of this monoclonal immunoglobulin and may be related to the amyloidogenic nature of Lambda light chains. Immunoglobulin production is a specific property of the B lymphocyte series. Transforming B lymphocytes and their differentiating progeny are engaged in active immunoglobulin synthesis and thus may be distinguished from morphologically identical but functionally distinct cells. The demonstration of cytoplasmic monoclonal immunoglobulin within these "malignant reticulum cells" strongly supports the assertion that at least some "histiocytic lymphomas" are neoplastic analogues of transformed B lymphocytes, and are not derived from phagocytic histiocytes, as previously believed.
Microbial Mutagenicity of Streptozotocin in Animal-mediated Assays

STREPTOZOTOCIN, a broad spectrum antibiotic with a unique structure (glucose-NHCON(NO)CH3), has several interesting properties. It is diabetogenic, carcinogenic, carcinostatic and phage-inducing1–4. It has recently been shown to be mutagenic for Salmonella typhimurium in vitro5.
GELLAB: a computer system for two-dimensional gel electrophoresis analysis. III. Multiple two-dimensional gel analysis.

Abstract This is the last of a series of three papers describing a computer analysis system, GELLAB, for aiding the digitization, segmentation, interimage comparisons, and analysis of two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis images. The system is directed to the identification of biologically significant changes manifest as spot differences despite complications introduced by a wide variety of gel preparative, staining, detection, and digitization variances. The operations applicable to single-gel images (segmentation, etc.) are described in the first paper. The second deals with several of the elements that will appear in the fully developed data base; i.e., constructs developed from images taken two at a time, based on regional correspondences established by landmarks. This paper focuses on methods for handling multiple gels. The keystone of this analysis is the R-gel, the representative gel image. This acts as the major framework to link spots across the set of gels and serves as a practical substitute for an unattainable canonical model. It is the referent around which the total spot data base is organized. The primary data base consists of the totality of the lists of corresponding spots (R-spot sets) and their associated properties and interrelations. Interrogation of, and experimentation with, the data base allows the user to find and extract measurements of biological significance from these congeneric polypeptides. Some of the problems of and some solutions for dealing with a large number of possibly incomplete biologically determined intergel spot density distributions are presented. Solution strategies include constructing mosaics, using the digitized images of areas surrounding selected spots, and creating labeled map images of R-gel correspondences. Listings of relative position and density information of ordered R-spot sets is also of value in this interactive system which permits refining of the initial data base. The multiple-gel data base system is very general in that gel segmentation and spot-pairing algorithms other than those now used in GELLAB may be substituted in the early phases of data base construction. Discussion of CGEL, the GELLAB program for constructing, partitioning, searching, retrieving, and formatting the data base, is illustrated using results obtained from 2D gel data of phytohemagglutinin (PHA) stimulation of lymphocytes. Experience with utilizing GELLAB on a variety of biological problems has suggested potential system developments and new system features which are noted. GELLAB runs on a DECSYSTEM-20 (or DECSYSTEM-10) and was written in SAIL.
Confidence regions in ternary diagrams based on the power-divergence statistics

Watson and Nguyen (1985) and Watson (1987) consider the problem of plotting confidence regions in a ternary diagram, for a trinomial probability vector π, based on Pearson's x2. Their results are extended to the power-divergence family of statistics resulting in confidence regions of diverse shapes and sizes. The members of the family with the most accurate coverage probabilities are λ=2/3 and λ=1/2.
Application of full-system simulation in exploratory system design and development

This paper describes the design and application of a full-system simulation environment that has been widely used in the exploration of the IBM PowerPC® processor and system design. The IBM full-system simulator has been developed to meet the needs of hardware and software designers for fast, accurate, execution-driven simulation of complete systems, incorporating parameterized architectural models. This environment enables the development and tuning of production-level operating systems, compilers, and critical software support well in advance of hardware availability, which can significantly shorten the critical path of system development. The ability to develop early versions of software can benefit hardware development by identifying design issues that may affect functionality and performance far earlier in the development cycle, when they are much less costly to correct. In this paper, we describe features of the simulation environment and present examples of its application in the context of the Sony-Toshiba-IBM Cell Broadband EngineTM and IBM PERCS development projects.
Neural Progenitor Cell Transplantation Promotes Neuroprotection, Enhances Hippocampal Neurogenesis, and Improves Cognitive Outcomes after Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract Transplantation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) may be a potential treatment strategy for traumatic brain injury (TBI) due to their intrinsic advantages, including the secretion of neurotrophins. Neurotrophins are critical for neuronal survival and repair, but their clinical use is limited. In this study, we hypothesized that pericontusional transplantation of NPCs genetically modified to secrete a synthetic, human multineurotrophin (MNTS1) would overcome some of the limitations of traditional neurotrophin therapy. MNTS1 is a multifunctional neurotrophin that binds all three tropomyosin-related kinase (Trk) receptors, recapitulating the prosurvival activity of 3 endogenous mature neurotrophins. NPCs obtained from rat fetuses at E15 were transduced with lentiviral vectors containing MNTS1 and GFP constructs (MNTS1-NPCs) or fluorescent constructs alone (control GFP-NPCs). Adult rats received fluid percussion-induced TBI or sham surgery. Animals were transplanted 1 week later with control GFP-NPCs, MNTS1-NPCs, or injected with saline (vehicle). At five weeks, animals were evaluated for hippocampal-dependent spatial memory. Six weeks post-surgery, we observed significant survival and neuronal differentiation of MNTS1-NPCs and injury-activated tropism toward contused regions. NPCs displayed processes that extended into several remote structures, including the hippocampus and contralateral cortex. Both GFP- and MNTS1-NPCs conferred significant preservation of pericontusional host tissues and enhanced hippocampal neurogenesis. NPC transplantation improved spatial memory capacity on the Morris water maze (MWM) task. Transplant recipients exhibited escape latencies approximately half that of injured vehicle controls. While we observed greater transplant survival and neuronal differentiation of MNTS1-NPCs, our collective findings suggest that MNTS1 may be superfluous in terms of preserving the cytoarchitecture and rescuing behavioral deficits given the lack of significant difference between MNTS1- and GFP-control transplanted groups. Nevertheless, our overall findings support the potential of syngeneic NPC transplantation to enhance endogenous neuroreparative responses and may therefore be an effective treatment for TBI.
The crystal and molecular structure of the dimethylplatinum(II) complex of 1,1,1-tris(diphenylphosphinomethyl)ethane

Abstract A new crystal X-ray study, as well as proton and phosphorus-31 NMR studies, show that the structure of Pt(CH3)2(tripod) [tripod = 1,1,1-tris(diphenylphosphinomethyl)ethane] consists of a four-coordinate, nearly planar platinum with the triphosphine functioning as a bidentate ligand.
Catch-up reproductive maturation in rural Tonga girls, Zambia?

To compare the timing of reproductive maturation among urban and rural Tonga girls in Zambia, anthropometric measures and Tanner stages of breast development were obtained. Subjects were 774 (282 rural, 492 urban) girls ages 6–18. Results indicate that rural girls are shorter and have smaller triceps and subscapular skinfolds than their urban counterparts. Median age at menarche for the entire sample, as estimated by probit analysis, was 14.8 years (95% CL = 14.34–15.40). Onset of breast development among urban girls was significantly younger than for the rural girls: 11.47 (95% CL 11.22–11.71) years vs. 13.15 (95% CL 12.40–14.15) years. In contrast, the two groups did not differ in timing of pubertal completion as assessed by median age for Tanner Breast Stage 5: 17.01 (95% CL 16.30–18.33) vs. 16.96 (95% CL 16.37–17.56) years. Predictors of pubertal onset, based on multivariate logistic regression, included dental maturation, height, and triceps skinfold. Triceps skinfold was the only significant predictor of pubertal completion. These results suggest that rural girls progress through puberty more rapidly than the urban girls despite their later start. This finding of maturational catch-up contrasts with earlier urban/rural comparisons of girls as well as previous results among Gwembe boys, for which later pubertal onset is associated with longer duration of pubertal maturation. While the mechanism remains unclear, biocultural explanations suggest preferential feeding during adolescence as a source for rural girl's maturational catch-up. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 16:658–669, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Cerebellar pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1

We describe a case of cerebellar pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) occurring in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). The histomorphology of this uncommon glial (astrocytic) neoplasm is discussed. The occurrence of this tumor within the posterior fossa is extremely rare. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a cerebellar PXA in a patient with NF1.
Electrocutaneous threshold changes produced by electric shock.

Three experiments were performed to investigate the effect of strong shock on absolute electrocutaneous thresholds. Experiment 1 confirms the existence of a reliable elevation of absolute threshold after strong shock. Experiment 2 shows the effect to be highly localized to the site of the strongly shocked electrode. It also shows that threshold elevation does not follow the same time course as do local vascular and impedance changes. Experiment 3 used skin treatment to alter the local vascular and impedance levels and demonstrated that threshold elevation occurs after strong shock even after these measures have been stabilized. These data indicate that the threshold increase due to electric shock is probably analogous to auditory fatigue but does not rule out the possible involvement of more central control factors.
Cross-sections for the formation of negative ions by electron impact on silane

Cross-sections and appearance potentials for the production of various negative ion species by electron impact on SiH4 have been measured. They are compared with two previous measurements which widely differ with each other. Hess' law has been applied to predict the various possible channels of dissociation.
Polarization of singlet-singlet electronic transitions in substituted naphtahlenes

Abstract The polarization of three low energy-singlet-singlet electronic transitions of several mono-substituted naphthalenes have been measured relative to the transition moment of fluorescence by the method of photoselection. It is shown that substitution of a hydroxy or a methoxy group at the 2 (orβ)-position of naphthalene leads to mixing between the 1 L b and 1 L a states, resulting in the short-axis polarization of the electronic transition to the former state. 1 (or α)- substituted compound exhibit no such mixing, and the transition to the 1 L b state is polarized largely along the long axis of the molecule. Substitution of a cyano group at the 2-position also leads to short-axis polarization of the L b band. These results are consistent with the predictions based on molecular orbital calculations.
A Novel Method to Monitor Root Decomposition Demonstrates that Salt Stress Can Enhance the Rate of Tomato Root Decomposition

This study quantified the effects of an abiotic stress, salinity, and a biotic stress, phytophthora root rot, on root mortality and decomposition in tomato (Lycopersiron esculentum Mill.). Rhizotron windows were used to measure root mortality rates in mature, container-grown plants. A novel assay was developed to monitor root decomposition by quantifying root-length disappearance over time using petri dishes in incubation chambers. Phytophthora root rot infection was induced by salt stress in the presence of Phytophthora parasitica Dastur inoculum; however, the moderate levels of disease induced had no effect on rates of root mortality or on root decomposition. Genotypic differences in root decomposition under salt stress were shown by the decomposition assay, the first report of intraspecific variation in root decomposition rates
Steatohepatitis induced by intragastric overfeeding in mice

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is prevalent among obese individuals with excessive caloric intake, insulin resistance, and type II diabetes. However, no animal models exist that recapitulate this important association. This study produced and characterized steatohepatitis (SH) caused by intragastric overfeeding in mice. C57BL/6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) type I receptor-deficient, and genetically matched wild type mice were fed via an implanted gastrostomy tube a high-fat diet for 9 weeks in the increasing amount up to 85% in excess of the standard intake. Animals were examined for weight gain, insulin sensitivity, and histology and biochemistry of liver and white adipose tissue (WAT). Overfed C57BL/6 mice progressively became obese, with 71% larger final body weights. They had increased visceral WAT, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, hyperleptinemia, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance. Of these mice, 46% developed SH with increased plasma alanine aminotransferase (121 +/- 27 vs. 13 +/- 1 U/L), neutrophilic infiltration, and sinusoidal and pericellular fibrosis. Obese WAT showed increased TNFalpha and leptin expression and reciprocally reduced adiponectin expression. The expression of lipogenic transcription factors (SREBP-1c, PPARgamma, LXRalpha) was increased, whereas that of a lipolytic nuclear factor PPARalpha was reduced in SH. SH was associated with reduced cytochrome P450 (Cyp)2e1 but increased Cyp4a. TNF type I receptor deficiency did not prevent obesity and SH. In conclusion, forced overfeeding with a high-fat diet in mice induces obesity, insulin resistance, and SH in the absence of TNF signaling or Cyp2e1 induction.
Nucleon-Hole Interaction in jj Coupling

A theorem connecting the energy levels in $\mathrm{jj}$ coupling of a nucleon-nucleon and nucleon-hole system is derived, and applied in particular to ${\mathrm{Cl}}^{38}$ and ${\mathrm{K}}^{40}$.
Asymmetric Epoxidation Catalyzed by N-Aryl-Substituted Oxazolidinone-Containing Ketones: Further Evidence for Electronic Effects

Ketones containing N-aryl-substituted oxazolidinones have been prepared and investigated for the epoxidation of cis-β-methylstyrene, styrene, and 1-phenylcyclohexene. The attractive interaction between the phenyl group of the olefin and the oxazolidinone of the catalyst is enhanced by introducing an electron-withdrawing group onto the N-phenyl group of the catalyst. The information obtained gives a better understanding of the ketone-catalyzed epoxidation. In addition, the easy preparation of some of the ketones makes them good candidates for practical use.
POTENTIAL INVOLVEMENT OF FREE RADICAL REACTIONS IN ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT‐MEDIATED CUTANEOUS DAMAGE*

Free radicals are chemical species characterized by an odd number of orbital electrons or by pairs of electrons of similar directional spin isolated singly in separate orbitals. Consequently most of these agents are highly reactive and usually exhibit an extremely short half-life, although due to steric and resonance effects some exceptions occur. Some radicals and their precursors, such as the diradical O2 which exists in the triplet state, represent a critical and essential element of normal metabolism of aerobic organisms where, under normal circumstances, controlled reduction of reactive oxygen species occurs via the cytochrome oxidase or cytochrome P-450 mixed function monooxygenase systems. In addition to reactive oxygen species, organisms may be subjected to a wide-range of other free radicals or their precursors, including those of both exogenous and endogenous origin. Elaborate defense mechanisms have evolved to avoid cellular damage from these highly reactive species. Enzymes, such as the superoxide dismutase, the glutathione peroxidase/reductase system, and catalase; interactions with conjugated diene systems such as those found in melanins, carotenoids, and tocopherols; and direct reduction by sulphydryl compounds, phenols, and purines represent but a few of these natural defense systems. Despite a strong rationale for considering free radicals as pathologic agents, progress in implicating these agents, or their reactions, in pathologic processes has been arduous. The fore-most hurdle to providing definitive evidence for free radical involvement rests with the highly transient nature of these species, hardly reaching measurable levels in vivo and thereby making rigorous testing of the hypothesis extremely difficult. Indeed, free radical damage has been studied, for the most part, by indirect means–usually by measurement of known free radical reaction intermediates and products from which free radical involvement is implied. Nevertheless, free radical formation has been shown to occur in UV-irradiated skin and a considerable body of circumstantial evidence has been amassed that strongly infers that these agents, or reactions initiated by them, are responsible for at least some of the deleterious effects of UV upon skin.
Reperfused myocardial infarction: Contrast-enhanced 64-section CT in comparison to MR imaging

Purpose: To prospectively compare 64-section multidetector computed tomography (CT) and cardiac magnetic resonance (MR) imaging for the early assessment of myocardial enhancement and infarct size after acute reperfused myocardial infarction (MI). Materials and Methods: The study was HIPAA compliant and was approved by the institutional review board. All participants gave written informed consent. Twenty-one patients (18 men; mean age, 60 years ± 13 [standard deviation]) were examined with 64-section multidetector CT and cardiac MR imaging 5 days or fewer after a first reperfused MI. Multidetector CT was performed during the first pass of contrast material to assess myocardial perfusion and detect microvascular obstruction (no reflow). In 15 patients, a second scan was performed 7 minutes later to assess total infarct size by using delayed hyperenhancement. Early hypoenhancement and delayed hyperenhancement were compared between multidetector CT and cardiac MR imaging with Pearson correlation coefficient a...
Job Involvement as a Moderator of Work Environment-Job Satisfaction Relationships:

Although job involvement is a construct which has received appreciable empirical investigation, many questions still exist as to its influence on the perception of environmental conditions and on environment-satisfaction relationships. The purposes of the present research were to examine relationships between job involvement and perceived environmental conditions (operationalized in the form of organizational climate measures) and to investigate moderating effects on climate-satisfaction correlations. 80 hourly employees at an electrical equipment manufacturing plant responded to a questionnaire containing measures of job involvement, job satisfaction, and organizational climate. Although job involvement was independent of climate perceptions, it did serve as a potent moderator of climate-satisfaction relationships; the high job-involvement group evidenced significant climate-satisfaction correlations in nine of 13 cases compared to only one for the low job-involvement group.
A Comparison of Online (High Tech) and Traditional (High Touch) Learning in Business Communication Courses in Silicon Valley

In this study, the authors explored differences in perceptions of skill development and the value of face-to-face interaction between students taking a business communication course offered online and in the traditional, on-campus classroom environment. They hypothesized that there would be no statistically significant difference in face-to-face interaction or perceived learning scores between students enrolled in online sections and those enrolled in traditional, in-class sections of business communication courses. In both cases, the authors observed a statistically significant difference. Findings suggest that the two groups of students were quite similar with respect to perceptions of skill development; however, the authors observed differences in the area of face-to-face interaction.
Reliable determination of binding affinity and kinetics using surface plasmon resonance biosensors

Progress has been made in the identification of experimental and analytical procedures that allow for a more reliable determination of equilibrium and kinetic constants. Possible origins of the frequently observed deviations of the measured binding progress from that expected for chemical binding of pseudo-first order, and appropriate experimental controls have been proposed. Improved analytical approaches include the application of global analysis and analytical corrections for the influence of mass transport.
Communication and diffusion processes in industrial markets

Investigates communication and diffusion theory in the industrial sector, an area seldom considered. Examines the evidence from consumer markets and then goes on to extend these approaches for industrial marketing. States that the theory of diffusion of innovations should be modified for industry by the introduction of individual and economic factors; identification of forms of influence of the kind not requiring interpersonal interaction and their effect on the adoption decision; and the development of data. Concludes by questioning the relevance of diffusion to the industrial market if it is not proven to be a systematic predictable process.
Reconsidering Learning Communities: Expanding the Discourse by Challenging the Discourse

This article draws on historical and philosophical lenses and interviews with students to question some fundamental tenets underlying the practice of freshman learning communities (FLCs): that they develop community and improve studentsO learning experiences. The article brings to the discourse of FLCs some critical questions regarding their value and practice.
Further observations on the non-rigorous relationship between triboluminescence and crystal centricity

Abstract The fact that some centrosymmetric crystals (i.e. those of certain lanthanide β-diketone complexes) can display triboluminescence is already recognized. This work further confirms the fact that centric lanthanide compounds can triboluminesce, but also confirms that there are at least two lanthanide compounds, Na3[Eu(oxydiacetate)3]·8H2O (1) and Eu2phen2(m-MeC6H4CO2)6·2H2O (2) whose structures are non-centric which show no triboluminescence at room temperature.
Involvement of the lungs in tuberous sclerosis.

A patient with tuberous sclerosis with involvement of the lungs is presented. The pulmonary involvement appears as a bilateral interstitial (diffuse) fibrosis, which is supported by evidence of reduced membrane permeability and hypoxemia, aggravated by exercise. The pulmonary functional defect is progressive as measured during the last six years, although the patient herself has shown only moderate clinical deterioration since the discovery of the abnormality 19 years ago.
Measuring Resiliency and Its Predictors in Recently Discharged Foster Youth

The ability to make positive adaptations to life’s circumstances despite exposure to severe adversity, and a multitude of risks has been described as resiliency (Luthar et al., Child Dev 71:543–562, 2000). Former foster youth have faced much adversity which places them at risk in their attempts to make a successful transition to adulthood. These risks require that former foster youth demonstrate much resiliency. The research reported upon in this paper had two purposes. The first purpose was to identify psychosocial factors that contributed to resiliency among former foster youth. The other purpose was to suggest an approach to the measurement of resiliency with former foster youth. The development of a measure for resiliency is described, as well as its initial test with 97 former foster youth 6 months after discharge. Positively associated with resilience were: the availability of social support, having independent living skills competence, being older at discharge, and maintaining contact with former foster parents. Negatively associated with resilience was living with family after discharge and having behavioral problems. Implications of these findings for social workers are discussed.
Curiosity and Need for Cognition

The present study hypothesized that individuals' need for cognition, which describes the dispositional tendency to engage in and enjoy thinking, would be related to questionnaire measures of curios...
Signs of the Self: An Exploration in Semiotic Anthropology

Peirce's general theory of signs, or semiotic, as he called it, yields a theory of the self that sees it both as the object and the subject of semiotic systems. From this viewpoint, the locus, unity, and continuity of the self will be found in the systems of signs that constitute the dialogues between utterers and interpreters of the signs. Personal identity, in this theory, is also a social and cultural identity and is not confined to the individual organism. Peirce's anti-Cartesianism, which denies intuitive and introspective knowledge of the self, derived that knowledge from the fallible inferences we all make from the observations of external facts, including the signs of the self. This laid the foundation for a semiotic psychology as well as for a semiotic anthropology. [self, semiotic anthropology, personal identity, C. S. Peirce]
Calcite: Rates of Dissolution in a Vertical Profile in the Central Pacific

Rate of dissoluton of calcium carbonate (calcite) was determined for a vertical profile 5000 mizeters deep in the central Pacific by measuring the loss of weight of optical calcite spheres arrayed on a mooring. Waters of the Pacific are undersaturated in all but the upper several hundred meters. A sharp increase in the rate of dissolution occurs at a depth of about 3700 meters, which corresponds closely to the depth below which calcite hias been dissolved from the sediments.
Martensitic Transformations in Materials Science and Engineering

Revue des caracteristiques de transformation martensitique, de la croissance et de la nucleation de la martensite et des aspects mecaniques de la transformation martensitique: pseudoelasticite, effet de memoire de forme, plasticite de transformation