cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cyclization of ylidenemalononitriles. VIII. Synthesis of coumarins from o‐methoxybenzylidenemalonitriles

A new synthesis of coumarins, by direct cyclization of α-cyano-o-methoxycinnamates in sulfuric acid, is described. The reaction seems quite general, and alkoxy groups other than the o-methoxy group involved in lactone formation are not hydrolyzed during the reaction. The 3-cyano group on the resulting coumarin is not hydrated in concentrated sulfuric acid, but can be converted to the carbamido group in 90% sulfuric acid. In certain cases these conditions do cleave methoxy substituents on the coumarins. Although the sulfuric acid cyclization did not produce the usual indenones when an o-methoxy group was present, the corresponding indenones could be obtained by cyclizing the ylidenemalononitriles with boron trifluoride-etherate. Possible reasons for this selectivity are discussed, and new coumarins and indenones characterized.
Reconsidering Virtue: Differences of Perspective in Virtue Ethics and the Positive Social Sciences

This paper describes differences in two perspectives on the idea of virtue as a theoretical foundation for positive organizational ethics (POE). The virtue ethics perspective is grounded in the philosophical tradition, has classical roots, and focuses attention on virtue as a property of character. The positive social science perspective is a recent movement (e.g., positive psychology and positive organizational scholarship) that has implications for POE. The positive social science movement operationalizes virtue through an empirical lens that emphasizes virtuous behaviors. From a virtue ethics perspective, a behaviorally based account of virtue is a weak theory of virtue. Observations are suggested for integrating the two perspectives. First, virtue should always be understood as an excellence and is often an optimal point between extreme dysfunctions on continuum of potential states. Second, an empirical exploration of virtue needs to account for character and context. Finally, the properties of organization-level virtue need to be further specified and explored. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
FURTHER INVESTIGATIONS ON THE MODE OF ACTION OF SUBSTANCES INHIBITING TUMOR GROWTH AND ON IMMUNIZATION AGAINST THESE SUBSTANCES

Our later investigations confirm our previous results. 1. It is possible to increase markedly the effect of substances inhibiting tumor growth by using certain combinations of these substances which, when given alone, have some effect on tumor growth. 2. Immunity acquired against the effect of these substances depends partly upon an active immunization of the tumor cells themselves against the action of these substances, and this immunity is transmitted to the following generations of tumor cells. 3. The immunity against the substances inhibiting tumor growth is, as far as we have investigated the problem, specific. 4. Our later experiments provide a more secure basis for the additional and more general conclusions which we mentioned tentatively in our previous paper.
Two vibration-rotation bands of cyanogen fluoride

Abstract The parallel band due to the fundamental frequency ν 1 at 1076.5 cm −1 and the perpendicular band of frequency ν 2 at 451.3 cm −1 in the spectrum of cyanogen fluoride have been resolved and analyzed. The ground-state rotational constant B 0 was measured as 0.3525 ± 0.0004 cm −1 , in agreement with microwave results and earlier infrared work on ν 1 . Other rotational constants measured were B ′ for each band and D ′ + D ″ for ν 1 . Vibrational assignments are suggested for several upper-stage bands superimposed on ν 1 and ν 2 and for certain weak bands believed to be combinations of the fundamentals.
Discriminative stimulus properties of phencyclidine and five analogues in the squirrel monkey.

Abstract Squirrel monkeys were trained to discriminate 0.16 mg/kg of 1-(1-phenylcyclohexyl) piperidine (PCP) from saline in a two-lever drug discrimination task on a fixed-ratio 32 schedule of food presentation. Intramuscular injections were given 5 min pre-session in a double alternation pattern. After reliable discriminative control of lever choice was established, dose-response determinations for generalization to the training dose of PCP were made with several doses of PCP, N-ethyl-1-phenylcyclohexylamine (PCE), 1-[1-(2-thienyl) cyclohexyl] piperidine (TCP), 1-(1-phenylcyclohexyl) morpholine (PCM), 1-(1-phenylcyclohexyl) pyrrolidine (PHP), and ketamine. All drugs produced dose-dependent PCP-appropriate responding. For each analogue, a dose was found which produced stimulus control of responding comparable to that of the PCP training dose. ED50 values were determined for each drug for percent drug-lever appropriate responding and for suppression of operant responding during test sessions. The relative potency for producing drug-lever appropriate responding was: TCP>PCP=PCE>PHP>PCM>ketamine. The relative potency for suppression of operant responding was: PCP=TCP>PHP>PCE>PCM>ketamine. In all cases, the dose necessary to suppress operant responding to fifty percent of vehicle rates was three to five times larger than the ED50 dose for drug-lever appropriate responding. The results of this study indicate marked similarities in the behavioral effects of these six arylcyclohexylamines.
Incentive Provision and Job Allocation in Social Cloud Systems

Social cloud systems, which aggregate the computing capabilities of a large pool of users, have emerged in recent years as a key solution for resource provision and sharing in large-scale online communities due to their inherent flexibility and cost-effectiveness. However, the performance and reliability of these systems depend on the users' cooperative behavior in sharing their computing capabilities. Hence, incentive mechanisms are needed to deter users from free-riding. In this paper, we first model the selfish behavior of the users supplying resources and aiming to maximize their own benefits, and compute the performance of the resulting non-cooperative equilibrium, which is highly inefficient. We then augment the existing job allocation schemes currently implemented in social cloud systems with a novel class of incentive mechanisms based on reputation-based pricing and collective punishment schemes that compel suppliers to change their selfish strategies in a manner that improves the efficiency of the system. We study the cloud system operator's problem of jointly optimizing the incentive mechanism and the job allocation scheme in order to find an optimal social cloud protocol which eliminates the free-riding behavior of suppliers while maximizing the social welfare of the system. We rigorously prove that, using only simple designs for both the incentive mechanism and the job allocation scheme, the resulting protocol provides significant improvements in terms of the social welfare compared to existing social cloud systems.
Pharmacokinetics of [14C]-paraquat and associated biochemical and pathologic changes in beagle dogs following intravenous administration

Abstract A single toxic dose (25 mg/kg, iv) of [14C]-paraquat (PQ) caused vomiting in all six Beagle dogs but mild diarrhea in only two dogs. All dogs manifested salivation and labored breathing within 6 to 9 hours and died between 32 and 36 hours postdose. The activities of plasma lactic dehydrogenase and creatine phosphokinase were generally increased at all times after PQ treatment. The glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase activity was increased at 6, 12, 24 hr and at death. The plasma angiotensin converting enzyme activity was unaffected. The plasma creatinine levels were generally increased and renin levels were increased at 12, 24 hr and at death. The hematocrit and plasma protein were increased at 6, 12 and 24 hr. A significant decrease in plasma K+, Na+, and Cl− was obtained at 6 hr after treatment and continued until death. The plasma concentration time curve showed a biphasic decline with a half life of 42.5 min for the alpha-phase. The distribution volume was 25.8% of body weight. The dogs dying from PQ toxicity showed the highest amount of PQ in bile followed by kidney, lung, liver, spleen, heart, adrenal glands, pancreas, thymus and muscle. Tissue paraquat concentrations in the first three organs correlated well with the severity of pathologic changes induced by this herbicide. The kidney had tubular necrosis characterized by segmental degeneration and coagulation necrosis of epithelium of the proximal convoluted tubules. The lungs showed patchy edema and alveolar hemorrhage. Hepatic changes included hepatocellular vacuolation. It was concluded from this study that secretion of PQ in bile may contribute to the total body clearance of this compound and that renal failure is a major cause of death in dogs acutely poisoned with paraquat.
Hydrogenation of AB5 and AB2 metal hydride alloys studied by in situ X-ray diffraction

Abstract The evolution of lattice constants and abundances of metal (α) and metal hydride (β) phases during the hydrogenation process of an AB5 alloy with a CaCu5 crystal structure, an AB2 alloy with a predominating C14 structure, and a C14/C15-mixed AB2 alloy were reported. The preferred hydrogen insertion sites at different states of charge in both the α and β phases were studied based on the lattice parameter changes during hydrogenation. During the hydrogenation of the AB5 alloy, the ratio between lattice parameters a and c (a/c ratio) in the α phase decreases, stabilizes, and then decreases again while that in the β phase decreases and then stabilizes. The trends in unit cell volume changes are increasing, plateauing, and increasing again in the α phase and increasing followed by plateauing in the β phase as the hydrogenation level increases. In the C14-predominant AB2 alloy, the a/c ratio in the α phase increases at the beginning and then stabilizes while that in the β phase remains about the same and then increases during the addition of hydrogen. Moreover, the unit cell volume in the α phase increases slightly during hydrogenation, comparing to the increasing, decreasing, and then increasing trend in the β phase. In the C14/C15 mixed AB2 alloy, hydrogenation of the C15 phase starts at the beginning and promotes the hydrogenation of the C14 phase. The C14 phase, as the main hydrogen storage phase, completes hydrogenation first compared to the C15 phase, which is about 50% hydrided at 1 MPa H2.
Social Identity in Facebook Community Life

Social identity is a key construct to understand online community life. While existing online identity studies present a relatively static conception of identity, grounded in user profiles and other personal information, in this paper the authors investigate more dynamic aspects of identity, grounded in patterns of social interaction in Facebook community life, drawing on social science research on identity theory and social identity theory. The authors examine the tensions experienced by people between assimilation and differentiation with respect to group identities and role identities. The study provides a framework for understanding how users construct self-presentations in different online social interactions, actively managing identity, rather than merely declaring it in a relatively static profile. The authors speculate on how social computing environments could more effectively support identity presentation.
Theoretical Study of Electronic Structures and Spectra of Chalcogenido Complexes of Molybdenum, trans-Mo(Q)(2)(PH(3))(4) (Q = O, S, Se, Te).

Electronic structures of the title complexes have been studied using quantum chemical computations by different methods. It is shown that the results of Xα calculations agree well with expectations...
Identification of Barriers in the Implementation of Dietetic Licensure and Certification Laws

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To identify common problems in the implementation of dietetic licensure and certification laws. Nutrition professionals in most states (76%) have become licensed, certified or registered. This legal recognition occurs with the passage and implementation of state regulation laws. The purpose of this study was to identify barriers in the implementation phase of dietetic licensure and certification laws. The study population of 50 states was divided in 1996 into states with licensure or certification (n=33) and states without (n=12). Five states were excluded because they did not meet the specified criteria. There were two phases to this qualitative study. The first phase involved a content analysis of 33 state legislation bills and the development of a questionnaire that evolved from inconsistencies identified in the content analysis. The questionnaire was mailed to legislative contacts in four states and data were collected via a telephone interview. The second phase used the results from the four sample states to develop a survey instrument for unregulated and regulated states. Data collection followed the same format as in phase one. Data were analyzed by comparing frequencies of yes/no responses to each question. Chi-square analysis was used to identify significant relationships between demographic variables of states and implementation problems. The results show that most problems or opposition occur during the drafting and planning of the regulation bill. Other results indicate that the main issues to emerge during implementation were resistance from nutrition professionals, concerning the title and cost associated with regulation. Also, unregulated states anticipate problems in implementing their legislation, but do not have plans to solve them. Demographic variables chosen in this study had no relationship to implementation problems that occurred or might occur. There were no defining factors that created a lengthy implementation period. The results indicate that barriers in the implementation phase are state specific and solving them prior to implementation is the responsibility of each state. Recommendations for states seeking legislation include planning for the implementation phase, consideration of legislative support, and budget analysis.
Vibrational frequencies and structural determinations of maleonitrile.

Abstract The vibrational frequencies and corresponding normal mode assignments of maleonitrile are examined theoretically using the gaussian 98 set of quantum chemistry codes. All normal modes were successfully assigned to one of eight types of motion predicted by a group theoretical analysis (CN stretch, CC stretch, CC stretch, CH stretch, CH bend, CCN bend, CCN bend, CCCC torsion) utilizing the C 2v symmetry of the molecule. The molecular orbitals of maleonitrile are also examined.
Relevant costs, congestion and stochasticity in production environments☆

Abstract Conventional management accounting principles used to evaluate relevant costs have been developed under the assumption of deterministic manufacturing settings. Manufacturing operations, however, are complex and stochastic. In this paper we examine the impact of stochasticity in the production process on relevant costs based on a dynamic assessment of capacity constraints. We develop a model to analyze the behavior of relevant costs with respect to changes in the expected duration and variability in set-ups and processing. An implication of this analysis is that for profit maximization capacity will exceed expected demand if production rates or demand are stochastic.
A Molecular Dynamics Investigation of Vinculin Activation

Vinculin activation plays a critical role in focal adhesion initiation and formation. In its native state, vinculin is in an autoinhibitory conformation in which domain 1 prevents interaction of the vinculin tail domain with actin by steric hindrance. Once activated, vinculin is able to interact with both actin and talin. Several hypotheses have been put forth addressing the mechanisms of vinculin activation. One set of studies suggests that vinculin interaction with talin is sufficient to cause activation, whereas another set of studies suggests that a simultaneous interaction with several binding partners is necessary to achieve vinculin activation. Using molecular-dynamics (MD) simulations, we investigate the mechanisms of vinculin activation and suggest both a trajectory of conformational changes leading to vinculin activation, and key structural features that are likely involved in stabilizing the autoinhibited conformation. Assuming that the simultaneous interaction of vinculin with both actin and talin causes a stretching force on vinculin, and that vinculin activation results from a removal of steric hindrance blocking the actin-binding sites, we simulate with MD the stretching and activation of vinculin. The MD simulations are further confirmed by normal-mode analysis and simulation after residue modification. Taken together, the results of these simulations suggest that bending of the vinculin-binding-site region in vinculin away from the vinculin tail is the likely trajectory of vinculin activation.
Reactions of Two Strains of Young Chicks to Depth

Summary.-An auditory stimulus, cheeping, was used in an attempt to establish a preference in 40 DeKalb No. 131 snd 40 Ghostley chicks for the deep side of a visual cliff. Approximately 80% of all responses were made to the shallow side. The cheeping, however, d~d have a differential effect on the number of deep responses by the two strains; in one strain a significantly greater number of deep responses was made when the deep side of the cliff faced in the direction of the noise, while in the other strain this difference was not observed. Some theoretical aspects of depth perception are discussed. Avoidance of the deep side of a visual cliff has been taken as evidence of depth perception. Walk and Gibson (1961) concluded that the chick can perceive depth since none of 29 chicks descended to the deep side of the visual cliff. After a selective review of the literature Walk (1966) decided that this ability to perceive depth by chicks was present at birth. Factors other than an innate ability to perceive and avoid depth, however, may determine the chicks' behavior on the visual cliff. Tallarico and Farrell ( 1964), for example, found that early experience is one such factor. Chicks reared on the deep side of a visual cliff made more descents to the deep than did chicks who were reared on the shallow side. The present experiment attempted to establish a preference for the deep side by means of auditory stimulation.
“Amount Effect” recorded in oxygen isotopes of Late Glacial horse (Equus) and bison (Bison) teeth from the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts, southwestern United States

Stable oxygen isotopes from fossils, both vertebrate and invertebrate, or inorganic sedimentary minerals frequently have been used to make interpretations about ancient global climates. Oxygen isotope values measured from terrestrial vertebrates or sedimentary carbonates provide information about paleotemperature and amounts of precipitation at a particular site. In general, these inferences are made on the centennial to millennial scale. Serial, i.e. ontogenetic, sampling of Equus and Bison tooth enamel provides climatic data on the scale of months to a few years. We present models showing how annual environmental patterns of d 18 O would be replicated in the tooth enamel of Equus and Bison. Changes in d 18 O due to shifts in temperature (in terrestrial environments d 18 O increases with increased temperature) and amount and timing of precipitation (increased precipitation may result in a decrease in d 18 O; a phenomenon called the ‘‘Amount Effect’’) are archived in both Equus and Bison teeth. The input signal is better resolved in Bison due to its more rapid enamel growth. Modeled patterns are compared with actual data from modern sites in the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts of the southwestern United States. The isotopic patterns from modern teeth agree with that predicted from known variations in meteoric water. Known floral and faunal assemblages as well as computer models suggest summer rain for the Chihuahuan Desert of Late Glacial time (15,000–10,000 years ago), but little summer rain for the Sonoran Desert at that same time. Serial data from fossil teeth show a clear pattern interpreted to represent the Amount Effect that includes increased summer rains in the Chihuahuan Desert and only minor summer rains in the Sonoran Desert. D 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Nucleic acid and protein synthesis in cardiac muscle of growing and adult mice.

Abstract The synthesis of nucleic acids and proteins has been studied in ventricular myocardium of mice ranging in age from birth to 1 year. The rate of 3H-thymidine uptake per unit of wet weight was found to reach a maximum on the 4th day after birth, then to decrease slowly until it reached adult levels in hearts of 1 1 2 -month-old mice. Feulgen microspectrophotometry revealed that at least 95 per cent of the myocardial nuclei in the adult mouse heart were diploid. The increase in DNA content of heart ventricles observed during the first 4 post-natal months thus represents a true increase in cell numbers. No significant increase in DNA content was observed in mice older than 4 months. The rate of RNA synthesis as determined by the incorporation of 3H-cytidine into unit weight of RNA was found to be slightly greater in older than in younger mouse hearts. When allowance was made for the pool size of endogenous 5′-CMP, the rate of RNA synthesis in the adult heart was found to be 14 times higher than in the weaning mouse heart. The uptake of 3H-leucine per milligram of heart tissue reaches a maximum on the 14th day after birth, and adult levels at about 5 weeks of age. These findings and measurements of total DNA, RNA, and proteins per heart ventricles suggest the conclusion that the ventricular myocardium of mice grows in the first 4 weeks after birth mainly by production of new cells, a process continuing but at a greatly reduced rate up to 4 months of age. Growth of the heart in older mice is due to an increase in size of pre-existing cells.
Abstract 2150: Therapeutic efficacy of an optimized quadruply mutated IL13-based bacterial cytotoxin in an orthotopic murine glioma model.

Interleukin 13 receptor alpha 2 (IL13Rα2) is a tumor-restricted plasma membrane receptor that is overexpressed on greater than 70% of Glioblastoma Multiformes (GBMs) as well as in other malignancies, including melanoma, adenocarcinoma, ovarian cancer and renal cell carcinoma. We and others have therapeutically exploited this attractive target using IL13-based targeting strategies to deliver bacterial toxins, chemotherapeutics, nanoparticles, viruses and immunotherapy directly to the IL13Rα2 tumor-restricted biomarker. In past work, we found multiple mutational hotspots on IL13 that (a) abrogated its binding to the physiologically abundant IL13Rα1/IL4Rα receptor heterodimer, and (b) increased its binding to the tumor-restricted IL13Rα2. Based on these findings, we created a delivery platform established as an optimized IL13Rα2-Targeted Quadruple Mutant of IL13 (TQM13; IL13.E13K/R66D/S69D/K105R) that we demonstrated binds with high affinity towards IL13Rα2, but not the IL13Rα1/IL4Rα receptor heterodimer. Of importance, we demonstrated the ability of radiolabeled TQM13 to target IL13Rα2-expressing tumors in vivo using positron emission tomography (PET). The objective of this current work was to demonstrate for the first time the in vivo IL13Rα2-targeted killing effect of our optimized TQM13 ligand genetically fused to a potent derivative of Pseudomonas exotoxin (PE). We successfully expressed TQM13 and TQM13-PE proteins in an E. coli expression system, denatured, refolded and purified them via Nickel-based affinity and ion exchange chromatography. We demonstrated IL13Rα2-specific affinity of TQM13 using a novel IL13Rα2-inducible system in which B16 melanoma cells expressed varying amounts of IL13Rα2 in proportion to the concentration of doxycycline. Of importance, the number of induced TQM13 binding sites (in vitro and in vivo) was comparable to the range seen in GBM and other malignancies (50,000-4,500,000 receptors/cell). In addition, we demonstrated that TQM13-PE killed cells in direct proportion to IL13Rα2 expression. Therefore, we tested the efficacy of TQM13-PE in an orthotopic murine GBM model by injecting mice with 1 μg of TQM13-PE intracranially on day 7 and 14 post stereotactic tumor cell implantation. We found a significant increase in survival only in mice bearing IL13Rα2-expressing orthotopic tumors, in contrast to mice bearing IL13Rα2-negative tumors. Thus, we have successfully generated an optimized, biomarker-targeted anti-GBM agent that demonstrated specific therapeutic potential against the tumor-associated IL13Rα2 biomarker in vivo. Citation Format: Van Nguyen, Dongqin Zhu, Jesse M. Conyers, Waldemar Debinski, Akiva Mintz. Therapeutic efficacy of an optimized quadruply mutated IL13-based bacterial cytotoxin in an orthotopic murine glioma model. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2150. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-2150
Assessing securitisation and hedging strategies for management of longevity risk

In this article, we address the problem of developing a hedging strategy for managing a portfolio of longevity risk-sensitive products, such as annuities, term life insurance, using a shareholder value maximisation framework from a provider’s perspective. An annuity provider extends a portfolio of annuities and is exposed to the cash flow requirements underlying this portfolio. Given the mortality risk of the demographics of its customer-base, the provider needs to develop a long-term risk profile of the cash-flow requirements of the portfolio, and develop a hedge for the scenarios where the necessary payments may threaten the provider’s solvency. With a choice of newly emerging hedging instruments, such as mortality bonds, survivor swaps, longevity bonds, we assess the role these instruments can play in the risk management strategy of an annuity and/or insurance provider.
Modeling the complex dynamics and changing correlations of epileptic events

Patients with epilepsy can manifest short, sub-clinical epileptic "bursts" in addition to full-blown clinical seizures. We believe the relationship between these two classes of events—something not previously studied quantitatively—could yield important insights into the nature and intrinsic dynamics of seizures. A goal of our work is to parse these complex epileptic events into distinct dynamic regimes. A challenge posed by the intracranial EEG (iEEG) data we study is the fact that the number and placement of electrodes can vary between patients. We develop a Bayesian nonparametric Markov switching process that allows for (i) shared dynamic regimes between a variable number of channels, (ii) asynchronous regime-switching, and (iii) an unknown dictionary of dynamic regimes. We encode a sparse and changing set of dependencies between the channels using a Markov-switching Gaussian graphical model for the innovations process driving the channel dynamics and demonstrate the importance of this model in parsing and out-of-sample predictions of iEEG data. We show that our model produces intuitive state assignments that can help automate clinical analysis of seizures and enable the comparison of sub-clinical bursts and full clinical seizures.
1997 May 12 Coronal Mass Ejection Event. I. A Simplified Model of the Preeruptive Magnetic Structure

A simple model of the coronal magnetic field prior to the coronal mass ejection (CME) eruption on 1997 May 12 is developed. First, the magnetic field is constructed by superimposing a large-scale background field and a localized bipolar field to model the active region (AR) in the current-free approximation. Second, this potential configuration is quasi-statically sheared by photospheric vortex motions applied to two flux concentrations of the AR. Third, the resulting force-free field is then evolved by canceling the photospheric magnetic flux with the help of an appropriate tangential electric field applied to the central part of the AR. To understand the structure of the modeled configuration, we use the field line mapping technique by generalizing it to spherical geometry. We demonstrate that the initial potential configuration contains a hyperbolic flux tube (HFT) which is a union of two intersecting quasi-separatrix layers. This HFT provides a partition of the closed magnetic flux between the AR and the global solar magnetic field. Such a partition is approximate since the entire flux distribution is perfectly continuous. The vortex motions applied to the AR inter-lock the field lines in the coronal volume to form additionally two new HFTs pinched into thin current layers. Reconnection in these current layers helps to redistribute the magnetic flux and current within the AR in the flux-cancellation phase. In this phase, a magnetic flux rope is formed together with a bald patch separatrix surface wrapping around the rope. Other important implications of the identified structural features of the modeled configuration are also discussed.
Broadband antenna systems for lightning magnetic fields

Broadband magnetic antenna systems suitable for recording submicrosecond field changes are described, and typical data from distant lightning are presented. Two types of systems are described, one with a high-impedance antenna loop connected to the integrator by a twisted pair of coaxial cables and another with the antenna loop and twisted signal loops formed from a single piece of coaxial cable. Data for correlated magnetic and electric field waveforms from lightning at a distance of 50 to 100 km are presented and are shown to be almost identical.
Having, Giving, and Getting: Slack Resources, Corporate Philanthropy, and Firm Financial Performance:

This study investigates financial correlates of corporate philanthropy in Fortune 1000 companies using structural equation modeling. The results suggest that cash flow (one of the most discretionary types of organizational slack) has a significant impact on a firm’s cash donations to charitable causes, but monetary donations do not affect firm financial performance. These findings support the accepted view of corporate philanthropy as a discretionary social responsibility and the traditional thinking about firm giving in the business and society literature—that doing well enables doing good. Contrary to some contemporary thinking, the findings imply no significant effect on profits from corporate generosity.
Intervention as a scientific concept

The deeper one delves into the literature on intervention, the more incredulous one becomes. The discrepancy between the importance attached to the problem of intervention and the bases on which solutions to it are founded is so striking that at first one wonders whether an adequate sample of the literature has been examined. Enlargement of the sample, however, only makes the discrepancy more glaring, and after pursuing every footnote that suggests a different approach and ruminating in a wide variety of documents, one is compelled to conclude that the literature is indeed incredible. The spirit of scientific explanation appears to have had no impact on it whatsoever. In an age when it is second nature to assume that the solution of problems requires comprehension of their sources, scholarly writings on the problem of intervention are singularly devoid of efforts to develop systematic knowledge on the conditions under which interventionary
Quantifying Early-Age Stress Development and Cracking in Low Water-to-Cement Concrete: Restrained-Ring Test with Acoustic Emission:

Early-age cracking has been found to occur in some concrete bridge decks, slabs, and pavements when the volumetric changes associated with drying, hydration, and temperature reduction are prevented. While free-shrinkage tests can quantify length change, they may not always be sufficient for detecting materials that are prone to cracking, since the potential for cracking is influenced by complex interactions of strength gain, stiffness development, creep, shrinkage, the degree of restraint, and toughness. The simplicity of the ring test enables it to be used as a comparative test to screen potential mixture designs. From the use of this test, AASHTO developed a provisional standard ring test that establishes specimen geometry; however, the provisional standard does not provide an approach for quantifying stress development or indicating how close a specimen may be to failure. Described is a simple stress solution for quantifying the results of the ring test. Issues related to ring and free-shrinkage specimen geometries are discussed to improve the fundamental understanding of the information provided by the ring test. Also described is how elastic stress and actual stress can be compared to measure the stress relaxation in a material. To better illustrate the microcracking and visible-crack development process, acoustic-emission testing was performed. These experiments indicated that specimens with a higher level of restraint exhibited more microcracking as a part of the stress relaxation process.
The stereoacuity of macaque monkey.

Abstract Depth perception in the monkey ( Macaca mulatta and Macaca nemestrina ) was evaluated quantitatively using the method of constant stimuli with the Howard Dolman test—two vertical rods. one of which varies in depth. The behavioral task was an automated. discrete trial discrimination with two levers and an observing response of placing the head in a face mask. Threshold disparity angle for the one monkey completing training was 2.4″ of arc. Best results for another monkey corresponded to a disparity angle of 15.2″ of arc. The best of six human subjects tested with the same apparatus had threshold disparity angles of 2.3 and 2.5″ of arc. Luminance effects on stereoacuity were measured and replicated with the monkey. The results compare closely with those of a human subject with the same apparatus and with published data on man obtained under similar conditions. Under monocular viewing conditions. the monkey did not exceed chance levels of performance even after extensive training. A human subject viewing monocularly had a threshold disparity angle of 58″ of arc. These results are consistent with the argument that binocular diparity is the cue used in this task and that stereopsis in the monkey is comparable to stereopsis in man.
Wheelchair Tiedown and Occupant Restraint System Issues in the Real World and the Virtual World: Combining Qualitative and Quantitative Research Approaches

The Americans with Disabilities Act requires that transit providers accommodate passengers who use "common wheelchairs" when traveling in a motor vehicle. Wheelchair tiedown and occupant restraint systems are commonly used to secure wheelchairs and restrain occupants in fixed-route and demand route transit vehicles. Throughout the 17 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act has been in effect, transit providers have complained about the usability of wheelchair tiedown and occupant restraint systems, and improper securement has been linked to injuries among wheelchair users during "nonimpact incidents." This research study explored the use of wheelchair tiedown and occupant restraint systems in actual practice and the potential risks of misuse to wheelchair-seated individuals. The qualitative research conducted in this study revealed that improper wheelchair securement (i.e. using less than four tiedown straps) can be fairly common practice in fixed-route transit. In addition, preliminary computer simulations show that improper wheelchair securement in emergency driving conditions may place wheelchair occupants at a greater risk of injury. It should be noted, however, that this is a pilot study and has its limitations. For example, qualitative data were gathered from one metropolitan area transit provider across a limited range of vehicle and wheelchair types. Additionally, the computer simulation model used in this study was originally validated for impact situations.
Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of tricyclic nucleoside and tricyclic nucleoside 5′-phosphate in biological specimens

An isocratic, sensitive, high-performance liquid chromatographic assay was developed for the determination of the tricyclic nucleoside 1,4,5,6,8-pentaazaacenaphthylene -3-amino-1,5-dihydro-5-methyl-1-beta-D-ribofuranosyl 5'-monophosphate (TCN-P; NSC 280594) and its dephosphorylated metabolite TCN (NSC 154020). Separation was obtained using a C18 Sep-Pak precolumn, a reversed-phase column, and a mobile phase of phosphate buffer--methanol (87.5:12.5, v/v) containing 0.0025 M tetrabutylammonium hydroxide. The absorbance of both TCN and TCN-P was monitored at 280 nm with a sensitivity limit of 10 ng/ml. The recovery was 54 +/- 6% and 51 +/- 8% (mean +/- S.D.) from plasma for TCN and TCN-P, respectively. Rapid enzymatic dephosphorylation of TCN-P in plasma and tissue samples was prevented by adding a large excess of adenosine 5'-monophosphate. The assay was used to determine plasma and tissue concentrations of TCN-P and TCN after administration of TCN-P to cancer patients in a Phase I clinical study.
Refinement of range-Doppler imagery by feedback control

This paper describes extended work on a comprehensive rotational-motion estimation and compensation technique to improve the quality of range-Doppler imagery. The approach assumes that the target signature is a collection of samples in the frequency space aperture plane. Motion compensation is performed via a polar reformatting scheme that requires knowledge of target kinematics, while motion estimation is accomplished by monitoring an entropy-like function in terms of kinematic parameter estimates. When properly selected, the entropy-like function becomes an accurate measure of image sharpness, and can thus be used to control a down-hill simplex search which yields an optimum set of rotational-motion parameter estimates. Ultimately, this set is needed to produce an optimally focused target image.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Forum: Communication skills: written and verbal

This Forum outlines some examples and opportunities of acquiring communication skills for scientists and engineers.
Radioiodine and 211At-labeled guanidinomethyl halobenzoyl octreotate conjugates: potential peptide radiotherapeutics for somatostatin receptor-positive cancers.

Abstract Derivatives of the somatostatin analogues octreotide and octreotate labeled with radioiosotopes are used in the diagnosis and therapy of somatostatin receptor (SSTR)-positive tumors. A method has been devised to synthesize N-(4-guanidinomethyl-3-iodobenzoyl)-Phe1-octreotate (GMIBO). Receptor binding assay and scatchard analysis yielded a Kd of 4.83 ± 0.19 nM for this peptide. Derivatives of this peptide labeled with radioiodine ([*I]GMIBO) and the α-particle-emitting radiohalogen 211At {N-(3-[211At]astato-4-guanidinomethylbenzoyl)-Phe1-octreotate; [211At]AGMBO} were prepared in a single step from a tin precursor in radiochemical yields of 30–35% and 15–20%, respectively. Paired-label internalization assays performed with the SSTR-positive D341 Med human medulloblastoma cell line demonstrated that [125I]GMIBO and [211At]AGMBO were specifically internalized 20–40% more than Nα-(1-deoxy- d -fructosyl)-[131I]I-Tyr3-octreotate ([131I]I-Glu-TOCA), the radioiodinated octreotide derivative previously shown to exhibit maximum internalization in this cell line. Uptake of [131I]GMIBO in D341 Med subcutaneous xenografts in a murine model (8.34 ± 1.82 versus 8.10 ± 2.23% ID/g at 1 h) and SSTR-expressing normal tissues was comparable to that of [125I]I-Glu-TOCA and was shown to be specific. However, the uptake of [131I]GMIBO also was substantially higher in liver (16.9 ± 3.15 versus 1.39 ± 0.45% ID/g at 1 h) and in kidneys (44.33 ± 6.47 versus 3.44 ± 0.68% ID/g at 1 h) compared to that of [125I]I-Glu-TOCA. These data suggest that these novel peptide conjugates retain their specificity for SSTR both in vitro and in vivo; however, because of their higher accumulation in normal tissues they would be best applied in settings amenable to loco-regional administration such as medulloblastoma neoplastic meningitis.
I-Views: a community-oriented system for sharing streaming video on the Internet

Abstract Streaming media is pervasive on the Internet now and is continuing to grow rapidly. Most streaming media systems have adopted the model of broadcast. Unfortunately, the nature of the broadcast-like one-to-many communication model is not able to foster interaction and collaboration among people. In this paper we discuss a community-oriented communication model for sharing streaming video and introduce a prototype, I-Views. This is a system that permits individuals to use published, communally-owned media clips in order to author narratives by assembling clips, and to build communities of similar interests based on comparison of these narratives. By offering shared authorship, tools and virtual environments, I-Views demonstrates some potential directions for `sharable video.'
Dopamine transporter-dependent induction of C-Fos in HEK cells.

The psychostimulants cocaine and amphetamine increase expression of the immediate early gene (IEG) c-fos indirectly, via D1 dopamine receptor activation. To determine whether dopamine transporter substrates and inhibitors can affect c-Fos expression directly, we investigated their effects on c-Fos protein and c-fos mRNA in HEK-293 (HEK) cells transfected with the human dopamine transporter (hDAT). In untransfected HEK cells, methylphenidate and cocaine produced a small but statistically significant increase in c-Fos, whereas dopamine and amphetamine did not. In hDAT cells, DAT substrates (dopamine, amphetamine) increased c-Fos immunoreactivity 6- and 3-fold (respectively). The DAT inhibitors cocaine, methylphenidate, and bupropion also increased c-Fos approximately 3-fold in hDAT cells. If coincubated with dopamine, the inhibitors attenuated dopamine-induced c-Fos in hDAT cells. The magnitude of c-fos mRNA induction by substrates and inhibitors paralleled induction of c-Fos protein immunoreactivity. The results indicate that substrates or inhibitors of the DAT can trigger induction of IEG expression in the absence of D1 dopamine receptor. For substrates, IEG induction is DAT-dependent, but for certain DAT inhibitors the cellular response can be elicited in the absence of the DAT in HEK cells. Oxidative stress may partly, but not fully, account for the DA-induced c-Fos induction as an inhibitor of oxidative stress Trolox C, attenuated DA-induced c-Fos induction. Protein kinase C (PKC) may also partially account for c-Fos induction as a specific inhibitor of PKC Bisindolylmaleimide I (BIS) attenuated DA-induced c-Fos by 50%. DAT substrate and inhibitor effects on IEGs, other fos-related antigens, and possible mechanisms that contribute to c-Fos induction warrant investigation in presynaptic neurons as a potential contribution to the long-term effects of psychostimulants.
The Developmental Tasks of Siblingship over the Life Cycle.

Based on a review of research, this article outlines the developmental tasks of siblingship in the United States from a life-cycle perspective. The sibling support bond typically persists throughout the life cycle. Some siblingship tasks are constant, weaving threads of consistency from birth to death, while others stand out as idiosyncratic to the context of the particular stage in the life cycle.
A new approach to defining and diagnosing malnutrition in adult critical illness.

Purpose of reviewThis review will highlight a new approach to defining malnutrition syndromes for critically ill adults that incorporates a modern understanding of the contributions of inflammatory response. A systematic approach to nutrition assessment is described to help support diagnosis.Recent
FPGA interconnect modeling for lifetime failure detection

As FPGAs move into nanometer regime CMOS technology, new performance and lifetime limitations have started showing up. The process variation effects cause undesired behavior of the circuit as transistor dimensions decrease. This work makes an effort to understand the importance of routing in FPGAs and its impact on the performance of nanometer scale FPGAs. Lifetime failure of FPGAs can be detected by observing the variation in the delay performance from newly developed or developing faults. In this paper, we develop models of interconnect and switching networks that enhance delay estimation. Circuit simulations performed using these models are compared with the timing simulation results from Xilinx development tools.
Two-component interpenetrating polymer networks (IPN's) from polyurethane and epoxies: the use of modified liquid MOCA as urethane curative

Modified Liquid MOCA (MLM) has been shown to have potential industrial applications in interpenetrating polymer networks (IPN's). This is due to its lower toxicity, low viscosity, appropriate crosslinking kinetics and ease of handling in comparison with unmodified MOCA. Two-component IPN systems prepared from polyurethanes and epoxies, utilizing MLM as a urethane curative, have exhibited good physical and mechanical properties. One of the most significant advantages of IPN's is their ability to achieve high modulus polymer alloys without the use of fillers that increase viscosities, making processing difficult. Further advances in these systems by the use of MLM as a urethane curative have also lessened many of the processing diffi culties for these materials.
Mechanisms of organophosphate insecticide-induced airway hyperreactivity.

It has been suggested that pesticide exposure may be a contributing factor underlying the increased incidence of asthma in the United States and other industrialized nations. To test this hypothesi...
Hygroexpansive and Sorptive Behavior of Wood Modified with Propylene Oxide and Oligomeric Diisocyanate

Abstract Small wood wafers were treated chemically to reduce their hygroexpansive and sorptive behavior. Wood specimens were either ovendried or conditioned to a nominal moisture content of 12 percent, and then treated with several propylene oxide-oligomeric diisocyanate mixtures using a fixed vacuum-pressure schedule. Results indicate that all treatments used reduced the hygroexpansive and sorptive behavior of wood. Resultant anti-swelling efficiency, moisture excluding coefficients, time to half swelling, and ratios of sorption were superior when treatments were applied to ovendry in contrast to wood with an initial moisture content of 12 percent. The best treatment found in the study was a mixture of 9:1 parts of propylene oxide, and oligomeric diisocyanate.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in Hormonally-Active Hair Product Use: A Plausible Risk Factor for Health Disparities

Estrogen and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that are associated with several health outcomes have been found in hair products. We evaluated the proportion, frequency, duration, and content of hair products in a racially/ethnically diverse population. We recruited n = 301 African-American, African-Caribbean, Hispanic, and white women from the New York metropolitan area. We collected data on hair oil, lotion, leave-in conditioner, root stimulator, perm, and other product use. Estrogen and EDC information was collected from commonly used hair products' labels (used by >3% of population). African-American and African-Caribbean women were more likely to use all types of hair products compared to white women (P < 0.0001). Among hair product users, frequency varied significantly by race/ethnicity, but not duration. More African-Americans (49.4%) and African-Caribbeans (26.4%) used products containing placenta or EDCs compared to whites (7.7%). African-American and African-Caribbean women were more likely to be exposed to hormonally-active chemicals in hair products.