cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Time-series Properties and Pricing of the Special Items Component of Earnings

We demonstrate that the effect of special items on the time-series of seasonally-differenced quarterly earnings differs from the effect of other components of earnings. Focusing on earnings four quarters subsequent to the special item where the time-series differences are most pronounced, we also demonstrate that market expectations of earnings impounded in prices reflect these time-series differences. Further, our estimates suggest that the proportion of the time-series implications of special items impounded in prices is larger than the proportion for other, non-special items, components of earnings. Nonetheless, market prices do not fully reflect time-series implications of special items ? a significant proportion of the time-series implications of negative special items is not impounded in prices and past values of special items predict subsequent abnormal returns.
Market Orientation, Learning Orientation and Product Innovation: Delving into the Organization's Black Box

Many scholars now agree that market orientation is necessary, but not sufficient to facilitate the type of innovation that breeds long-term competitive advantage (cf. Dickson, 1996). In addition to a strong market orientation, a firm must also be able to institutionalize higher order learning processes, the type of learning that enables radical innovation. Recent research (cf. Baker and Sinkula, 1999) has empirically established a synergistic effect of market orientation and learning orientation on organizational performance. This paper attempts to add to the literature by offering a more complete theoretical explanation of how these two constructs interact to affect product innovation capabilities. Three types of marketing firms are identified. Phase I firms learn primarily through modeling and are typically limited to manager-driven incremental innovation. Phase II firms learn primarily through adaptive learning and are typically limited to market-driven incremental innovation. Phase III firms engage in generative learning and pursue ongoing radical innovation. We propose that only Phase III firms are capable of maintaining competitive advantage in dynamic market environments.
An empirical bayes adjustment to multiple p-values for the detection of differentially expressed genes in microarray experiments

In recent microarray experiments thousands of gene expressions are simultaneously tested in comparing samples (e.g., tissue types or experimental conditions). Application of a statistical test, such as the t-test, would lead to a p-value for each gene that reflects the amount of statistical evidence present in the data that the given gene is indeed differentially expressed. We show how to use these p-values across the genes using the method of empirical Bayes estimation so that each gene in turn borrows evidence of differential expression (or nondifferential expression, whatever the case may be) from all other genes on the microarray. A new set of accept/reject decisions are reached for the differential expressions using the empirical Bayes adjusted p-values through a resampling based step-down p-value calculation that protects the analyst against the overall (familywise) type 1 error rate. The utility of incorporating the empirical Bayes adjustment is illustrated via a number of simulation experiments where we compute various performance measures such as sensitivity, specificity, false discovery rate and false non-discovery rate of the overall testing mechanism with and without the empirical Bayes adjustment.
Duct-to-duct biliary anastomosis for patients with sclerosing cholangitis undergoing liver transplantation

Abstract Background Due to the association of strictures within the biliary ductal system, Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy has been the preferred method of anastomosis for liver transplant recipients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). The aim of this study was to evaluate duct-to-duct anastomosis in patients with PSC who undergo liver transplantation. Methods Data were collected and evaluated based on demographics, type of anastomosis preformed, malignancies, outcomes comparisons, and survival. Results Of the 60 patients transplanted for PSC, 58 were diagnosed PSC prior to transplantation and 2 were diagnosed on explant. The Roux-en-Y group ( n = 38) were similar in age, gender, and race when compared to the duct-to-duct (d-d) group ( n = 22). There were similar rates of anastomotic revisions when comparing d-d anastomosis with Roux-en-Y (2 [9.1%] versus 2 [5.3%], P = NS) owing to bile leaks. Based on radiologic interventions of the bile ducts, seven (18.4%) in the Roue-en-Y group had interventions compared to two (9.1%) in the duct-to-duct group ( P = NS). There was also no difference in recurrence of PSC: three (7.9%) in the Roux-en-Y group compared to two (5.3%) in the duct-to-duct group ( P = NS). Survival at 4 years were similar between each group (76.5% [± 0.07] Roux-en-Y versus 84.9% [± 0.08] duct-to-duct, P = NS). Conclusion Duct-to-duct anastomosis at the time of liver transplantation is both safe and efficacious when used in patients with PSC. Outcomes as described by surgical interventions, radiologic interventions, retransplantation, and survival were similar between groups.
Gene therapy for the treatment of disorders of the musculo-skeletal system

Mimicking a developmental gene expression pathway may be the best means for repairing or healing orthopedic tissues. Identification and isolation of genes that are critical inducers of these regulatory pathways is a significant first step towards this goal. Delivering the genes of interest into the appropriate environment with the least amount of side-effects is crucial. Successful in vivo gene delivery requires development of methodologies that are highly efficient and would not induce a host immune response. I will discuss a non-viral gene delivery that we have used to deliver genes with high efficiency in a cartilage defect repair model in the rabbit and for direct delivery of the marker gene into canine flexor tendons during repair surgery. Using this gene delivery approach, efficiencies exceeding 70% have been demonstrated in both models. Specific growth and transcription factors are now being used in this gene therapy system. In addition to the specific growth and regulatory transcription factors, subtractive hybridization or differential gene expression profiling is identifying critical new genes involved in the healing process. I will present one example where we have identified a ras activated, proliferation dependent PT-12 gene. PT-12 is expressed by patellar tendon, a tissue that heals readily, but is completely absent in anterior cruciate ligament, a tissue that fails to raise a successful repair response following injury. I will discuss the potential role of this as a marker of tissue repair and healing. Finally, the potential for specific morphoregulatory factors such as growth and transcription factors and adhesion molecules in cartilage repair and ligament healing and antifibrosis in gene therapy will be discussed.
Phase-contrast tomography using tilted detector planes

Intensity diffraction tomography (IDT)is a propagation-based phase-contrast tomography imaging method. In this work, we develop an IDT reconstruction theory for measurement geometries that employ tilted detector planes. The conventional IDT reconstruction theory is contained as a special case where the detector planes are perpendicular to the direction of the probing plane-waves. The resulting reconstruction algorithms are implemented numerically, and computer-simulation studies are conducted to demonstrate their validity and robustness to data noise.
The Power of the Mantel—Haenszel Test

Abstract The Mantel-Haenszel (MH) test (Mantel and Haenszel 1959) is a widely used method for analyzing sets of two-by-two tables that compare the outcome of two treatments in several strata (Bailar and Anthony 1977). The procedure tests the null hypothesis of no partial association between treatment and outcome in any of the strata, or tables, against the alternative that the partial association, as measured by the common odds ratio, differs from 1. Birch (1964) showed that for a fixed number of tables, both the MH test and an earlier version due to Cochran (1954) are asymptotically identical to the uniformly most powerful unbiased test of this hypothesis. This article is concerned with calculating the power of the MH test as a prelude to embarking upon a study. We consider versions of the test with and without corrections for continuity. The spirit behind the approximations is that, although the odds ratio is the appropriate parameter for computing asymptotic power under local alternatives, in practice ...
Comparative critical field study of superconducting ternary borides

The upper critical field (Hc2) and electrical transport properties have been determined for ternary rare-earth transition-metal borides with a variety of crystal structures; namely, ScRu4B4 (I41/acd), LuRh4B4 (I41/acd), ThRh4B4 (P42/nmc), LuOs3B2 (P6/mmm), LuRuB2 (Pnma), and YRuB2 (Pnma). For the majority of the compounds the critical field measurements are analyzed in terms of the dirty limit [ltr/ξBCS(0)≪1] theory of Werthamer, Helfand, and Hohenberg (WHH). For the superconductor YRuB2, which is in the clean limit, critical field data are analyzed in terms of the Ginzburg-Landau theory. From the experimental data for\(({{dH_{c2} } \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{dH_{c2} } {dT}}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {dT}})_{T = T_c } \),Tc, and residual resistivity ρres, we also have determined the heat capacity coefficient γ and BCS coherence length ξBCS(0). The κ values indicate that these compounds are all strong type II superconductors.
Comments on the origins of coronal mass ejections

Explicit delineation of the cause (or causes) of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) has eluded our understanding for several decades. More recently, their extension into interplanetary space has also attracted attention, particularly since the faster CMEs have been inferred to be associated with the more severe, non-recurrent, geomagnetic storms. Understanding the linkage of one phenomenon to the other requires improved monitoring of the manifestations of CMEs so that post-launch tracking via remote-sensing (interplanetary scintillations) and/or in situ observations will be meaningful. A critical examination is made here of recent claims that the single cause of CMEs lies in their close connection with large-scale, closed magnetic structures in the corona. Proponents of this position generally disregard or minimize an earlier, proposed suggestion that the cause is to be found in the small-scale, complex activity within eruptive flares with or without eruptive prominences. It is proposed here that equal weight to a bimodal set of causes should be considered. We also revisit a number of comments, pro and con, on the proposed ‘solar flare myth’ paradigm.
The orientation of the force of the jaw muscles and the length of the mandible in mammals

Ungulates generally have large masseter and pterygoid muscles and a necessarily large angular process provides attachment surface on the mandible. The temporalis muscle tends to be small. It has been suggested that this is an adaptation for enhanced control of the lower jaw and reduction of forces at the jaw joint. I suggest an additional reason: because of the geometry of the jaw, the length of that segment of the lower jaw that spans the distance from the jaw joint to the most posterior tooth is significantly reduced when the masseler and pterygoid are the dominant muscles; this region is necessarily much longer when the temporalis is large.
The Use of Videotaped Cases in the Teaching of Marketing

This article discusses an alternative to the traditional use of business cases in marketing courses. The skills required of a student in dealing with written case materials are quite different from skills later needed on the job: listening, taking notes, and formulating responses to problems communicated verbally. The author has developed several variations of audiovisually based cases. Advantages and disadvantages of these pedagogical alternatives are discussed.
Lock-in structures obtained in AgNaCl and AuMgO interfaces at elevated temperatures

Abstract Measurements of the low energy orientation relationships between Au and MgO single crystals at 550, 750 and 900°C indicate a variation of the boundary energy with temperature. Over the whole temperature range studied the boundaries are ordered and can be described according to the lock-in model: low energy orientation relationships are obtained if a large number of close packed rows of atoms at the “surface” of the metal crystal locks-in the “valleys” between close packed rows of ions at the “surface” of the ionic crystal. A phase diagram of Au MgO interfaces is developed and exhibits highest thermal stability for interphase boundaries with close packed atomic structures. In addition, the validity of the lock-in model is checked by comparison with experimental data for the interfacial energy between Ag and NaCl crystals. Whereas the coincidence concept fails to describe low energy conditions for interphase boundaries between noble metals and ionic crystals accurately, it is demonstrated that the “lock-in model” is suitable to describe the structure/energy dependence of this type of interfaces. Low energy interfacial structures can be described by two-dimensional short period units of close packed directions matching at the boundary between both crystals.
Anticipatory Learning: The Seventh Strategic Imperative for the Twenty‐first Century

Strategy and strategic intent should be about winning customers and meeting customers′ increasing demands. Outlines the seven “strategic imperatives” on which companies must focus in order to win the fight for customers. Concludes with the warning that an organization that is not consciously addressing all seven imperatives runs the risk of not being around for the twenty‐first century.
Environmental degradation narratives in Madagascar: From colonial hegemonies to humanist revisionism

Abstract It is recurrently argued that political ecologists, by overlooking biophysical realities, misinterpret ecological interactions and underestimate environmental degradation. This article investigates the relevance of these critiques in the case of the Malagasy highlands. It is based on an analysis of three environmental narratives: a narrative developed by European colonists at the beginning of the century; a “modern” narrative developed since the 1980s by combining data from paleobotanists, archeologists and paleontologists; and a narrative developed more recently by political ecologists. I will show that biophysical realities were actually investigated by political ecologists in Madagascar, but that their interpretation differed from those of mainstream ecologists as a result of a different way of defining, characterizing and valuing the environment. With the aim of favoring a more comprehensive understanding of environmental degradation in Madagascar, I will propose to clarify the epistemological framework of political ecology, and to bring an objective nature back into its scope of enquiry. Far from weakening political ecology, this exercise will render the discipline more resistant to the counterattacks it has received, and more powerful for building a future that will answer to both social and environmental challenges.
Generalized sorting profile of alluvial fans

Alluvial rivers often exhibit self-similar gravel size distributions and abrupt gravel-sand transitions. Experiments suggest that these sorting patterns are established rapidly, but how—and how fast—this convergence occurs in the field is unknown. We examine the establishment of downstream sorting patterns in a kilometer-scale alluvial fan. The sharp transition from canyon to unconfined, channelized fan provides a well-defined boundary condition. The channel changes from deep and entrenched at the fan apex to shallow and depositional over a short distance, exhibiting nonequilibrium behavior. The resulting gravel-fining profile is not self-similar; the particle size distribution narrows until approximate equal mobility is achieved. Downfan, the gravel-sand transition appears to exhibit a self-similar form; field and laboratory data collapse when downstream distance is normalized by the location of the transition. Results suggest a generalized sorting profile for alluvial fans as a consequence of the threshold of motion and nonequilibrium channels.
Equation of State of Helium and Polybutene and Raman Spectrum of Water at High Shock Pressures and Temperatures

Hugoniot EOS measurements on liquid helium are in good agreement with theory of Young et al. The Raman spectrum of shocked water showed that the O-H stretch band was red-shifted about 15 cm/sup -1/ and narrowed about 20%. Hugoniot P-V and shock temperature data for polybutene are in good agreement with a Mie-Grueneisen model. (DLC)
Democratic Management: The Path to Total Quality with Total Liberty and Equality

A review is presented of the book “Democratic Management: The Path to Total Quality With Total Liberty and Equality,” by Asim Sen.
Genetic differences in Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-induced facilitation of brain stimulation reward as measured by a rate-frequency curve-shift electrical brain stimulation paradigm in three different rat strains

Lewis, Fischer 344, and Sprague-Dawley rats were implanted with electrodes in the medial forebrain bundle and trained to lever press for brain stimulation reward using a rate-frequency curve-shift electrical brain stimulation paradigm based on a series of 16 pulse frequencies ranging from 25 to 141 Hz in descending order. Once reward thresholds were stable, rats were given 1.0 mg/kg delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta 9-THC), the psychoactive constituent in marijuana and hashish, or vehicle, by intraperitoneal injection. Lewis rats showed the most pronounced delta 9-THC-induced enhancement of brain reward functions. Sprague-Dawley rats showed an enhancement of brain reward functions that was approximately half that seen in Lewis rats. Brain reward functions in Fischer 344 rats were unaffected by delta 9-THC at the dose tested. These results are consistent with previous work showing Lewis rats to be highly sensitive to the rewarding properties of a variety of drugs of abuse, including opiates, cocaine, and alcohol, while Fischer 344 rats are relatively less sensitive. They extend such previous findings to cannabinoids, and further suggest that genetic variations to other cannabinoid effects may also exist.
Cell surface glycosaminoglycans are not involved in the adherence of Helicobacter pylori to cultured Hs 198.St human gastric cells, Hs 746T human gastric adenocarcinoma cells, or HeLa cells.

Hs 198.St cells (a line derived from normal human gastric tissue), Hs 746T cells (a line derived from human gastric adenocarcinoma), and HeLa cells were used together with3H-labelledHelicobacter pylori, strain NCTC 11637 to determine if cell surface glycosaminoglycans could act as initial receptors for adherence of the bacteria. Although as much as 40% of the3H-labelled bacteria adhered to monolayers of the cultured cells, removal of glycosaminoglycans by prior treatment of the cells with heparitinase, heparinase, or chondroitin ABC lyase had no effect in modifying the adherence. Prior addition of heparan sulfate, heparin, or chondroitin/dermatan sulfate to bacteria had no effect on adherence, nor were bacteria released when these same glycosaminoglycans or these same enzymes were added to cultures already containing adherent bacteria. These results indicated that neither heparan sulfate nor chondroitin/dermatan sulfate are involved as receptors in the initial adherence step ofH. pylori to these cultured cells.
Black female transsexuals and schizophrenia: A serendipitous finding?

While increasing numbers of individuals have identified themselves as transsexuals and requested sex reassignment surgery, the number of black female applicants is grossly underrepresented. Indeed, only 3% of the patients applying to the Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) Gender Identity Clinic (5 of 174 patients) were black females; and in one survey of nine gender identity clinics, only 1.1% of the applicants were black females. In this study, all five black female applicants who applied for transsexual evaluation to the CWRU Gender Identity Clinic served as subjects. The patients' characteristics, their psychological test results, clinical interview material, and psychological and psychiatric diagnoses are presented. All patients had severe psychopathology; three were schizophrenic, one was a schizophrenic character, and the last diagnosed as either a psychotic character or borderline personality. Among the hypotheses, it was suggested that black women may be "inoculated" against severe gender identity pathology and only exhibit such pathology as a consequence of a schizophrenic illness or severe borderline schizophrenic state. The data also suggest that more attention should be placed on investigating the family and cultural dynamics related to transsexualism. The implications of these findings for developing a comprehensive theory of transsexualism are presented.
Theoretical Perspectives on the Health Problems of Adults Who Experienced Childhood Sexual Abuse

With the wide variety of health problems reported by adults who experienced childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and no universality for any of them, it is vital that treatment and research be theory-based...
Joint probabilistic data association for multitarget tracking with possibly unresolved measurements and maneuvers

In a multitarget environment, when tracking crossing targets, a model is needed for the situation where the measurements from two targets are merged into one due to an inherent resolution threshold. A multidimensional model for the merged measurements is proposed and the resulting pdf is presented. This model is applied to augment the Joint Probabilistic Data Association (JPDA) algorithm used for tracking multiple targets in a cluttered environment, so that it can handle, in a more realistic manner, the situation of crossing targets. An extension to maneuvering targets is also presented.
The Interpretation of a Meis20ge in Light of Contextual Magnitude and Relevance

Research has shown that a given core quantity appears larger as contextual stimuli become smaller, and conversely. This study sought to determine whether such contextual effects are greatest where contextual stimuli appear highly relevant in assessing a core quantity. As defined here, contextual relevance hinges upon physical similarity between core and context objects, as well as upon certain canons of appropriate judgment behavior such as the scientific method. Two parallel experiments were conducted. In both studies, reducing contextual magnitude increased the apparent size of core quantities, as predicted, where contextual relevance was high. Further, such increases in judged core-quantity magnitude had predicted effects on perceived writer stand (pro or con). Where contextual relevance was low, increasing size of context did not influence perceived magnitude of the core quantity viewed in isolation. Here, apparently, respondents discounted low-relevant contexts as predicted. However, when judging author stand on an issue, respondents apparently tended to rate a core quantity as large where context was large and of low relevance.
Real-Time Detection of Single Molecules in Solution by Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy

We report real-time detection of single fluorescent molecules in solution with a simple technique that combines confocal microscopy, diffraction-limited laser excitation, and a high-efficiency photon detector. The probe volume, ∼5.0 x 10 -6 L, is defined latitudinally by optical diffraction and longitudinally by spherical aberration. With an unlimited excitation throughput and a low background level, this technique allows fluorescence detection of single rhodamine molecules with a signal-to-noise ratio of ∼10 in 1 ms, which approaches the theoretical limit set by fluorescence saturation. Real-time measurements at a speed of 500 000 data points/s yield single-molecule fluorescence records that not only show the actual transit time of a particular molecule across the probe volume but also contain characteristically long (∼50 μs) and short (∼4 μs) dark gaps. Random-walk simulations of single fluorescent molecules provide evidence that these long and short dark periods are caused mainly by boundary re-crossing motions of a single molecule at the probe volume periphery and by intersystem crossing into and out of the dark triplet state. We have also extended the use of confocal fluorescence microscopy to study individual, fluorescently tagged biomolecules, including deoxynucleotides, single-stranded primers, and double-stranded DNA. The achieved sensitivity permits dynamic structural studies of individual λ-phage DNA molecules labeled with intercalating fluorescent dyes ; the results reveal large-amplitude DNA structural fluctuations that occur on the millisecond time scale.
Sublethal chilling injury of potato leaves

Se describen los sintomas de dano subletal causado por heladas en hojas de papas. El dano resulto tanto a consecuencia de bajas temperaturas sufridas naturalmente en el campo como por bajas temperaturas inducidas experimentalmente. Se cree que el tejido meristematico es el principalmente afectado produciendo hojas deformadas con varios grados de jaspeado, manchas amarillas y deformacion de hojas. Se describe la deformacion de hojas. Se describe la deformacion de hojas resultante del elargamiento incompleto de venas. Bajo las condiciones experimentales usadas se obtuvo evidencia de un desarrollo unilateral.
The Role of Glycine 99 in l-Lactate Monooxygenase from Mycobacterium smegmatis

Glycine 99 in L-lactate monooxygenase (LMO) from Mycobacterium smegmatis was mutated to serine and threonine, and the resultant mutants were studied extensively to explore the role of this residue in maintaining monooxygenase activity and in controlling the reactivity with molecular oxygen. Both mutants were observed to lose monooxygenase activity completely and generate H2O2 and pyruvate as reaction products. However, the mutants have much lower activities than a true L-lactate oxidase. The oxygen reactivities of the reduced and semiquinone forms of the mutant enzymes were significantly different from those of wild type enzyme. These results confirm our previous suggestion that the electronic interactions in the active site are a crucial factor that governs the oxygen reactivity of the enzyme (Sun, W., Williams, C. H., Jr., and Massey, V. (1996) J. Biol. Chem. 271, 17226-17233). In addition, the mutants cause a dramatic decrease of the rate of flavin reduction by L-lactate compared with the wild type enzyme, mainly due to the much lower stabilization of the transition state.
Way-stations in the development of children's proportionality concepts: The stage issue revisited

Abstract This study examined developmental interdependencies among children's solutions to three proportionality tasks: balance beam, probability judgment, and juice mixture. The specific goal was to assess J. F. Wohlwill's (1973 , The study of behavioral development , New York: Academic Press) notion of “way-stations” in development, toward which interrelated cognitive skills or concepts converge according to their own unique time tables. Two predictions consistent with the “way-station” notion were confirmed. First, consolidation of a given level of performance across all three tasks was a prerequisite for higher level performance in any of the three task domains. Second, the process of extending a given level of knowledge across task domains was accompanied by modifications in children's representations of variables or relations involved in their current problem-solving strategies. It was speculated that extension and elaboration are mutually facilitative processes, and that their interaction helps to explain why way-stations are not only descriptive entities, but also of functional value for cognitive development. This interpretation was contrasted with alternative interpretations suggested by R. Case's (1985 , Intellectual development: Birth to adulthood , Orlando, FL: Academic Press) and K. W. Fischer and S. L. Pipp's (1984 , in R. J. Sternberg (Ed.), Mechanisms of cognitive development (pp. 45–81), New York: Freeman) theories for similar data patterns.
Through the Eyes of Young Sibling Donors: The Hematopoietic Stem Cell Donation Experience

This qualitative study used a grounded theory approach to explore how pediatric sibling donors of a successful hematopoietic stem cell transplantation conceptualized their donation experiences. Saving my sister's (or brother's) life describes the central phenomenon identified by this purposive sample of 8 sibling donors. Five themes captured their memories: being the perfect match, stepping up, worrying about the outcome, the waiting process, and sharing a special bond. Further research surrounding changes in relational issues will provide insight into inter-sibling support and the developmental course of the sibling relationship into adulthood when intensified by a health crisis.
Photoredox reactions of metal ions for photochemical solar energy conversion

Abstract Solar energy conversion to chemical potential energy is thermodynamically feasible by many routes. One possible route is the photochemical reaction of metal ions in water to produce hydrogen and an oxidizer. The photooxidation of several low-valent transition metal ions, including europium(II), vanadium(II), and copper(I) complexes, proceeds in aqueous acidic media according to: Quantum yields in 1.0 M hydrochloric or perchloric acid at 313 nm are: Φ Eu(III) = 0.16, Φ V(III) = 0.15, and Φ Cu(II) = 0.34. This reaction proceeds in visible light with a minimum of photochemical complications for Eu(II) and Cu(I) salts, and since the oxidation of copper(I) halo-complexes is endergic and hence potentially useful for energy storage, the mechanism of photooxidation has been studied. The product quantum yield is strongly affected by the acidity, irradiation wavelength and H-atom scavengers. Photoredox reactions of a number of metal ions and the requirements for using such in a solar energy scheme are discussed.
Lymphocyte memory and affinity selection

The persistence of antigen-specific immune memory appears to require the presence of antigen—suggesting that memory may be due to restimulation of “memory” lymphocytes by persisting antigen. Persistence of antigen, in a form capable of stimulating B cell proliferation, on long-lived, follicular dendritic cells of lymphoid tissue is well documented. Existence of an analogous mechanism for T cell memory maintenance is controversial but can not be ruled out. Here we examine the consequences of immune memory maintenance by antigen-specific lymphocyte restimulation, and estimate the duration of memory as a function of model parameters. We show that the competition for restimulation among memory cell populations results in the selection of the clone having the highest overall affinity for the retained antigen. Thus affinity selection, an important attribute of immunity, is a constitutive property of memory maintenance by antigen-specific restimulation. In the case of B cells, affinity selection is predicted to continue to increase antibody affinity even after somatic mutation stops, and thus may be an important component of affinity maturation. Finally, we discuss several other hypotheses proposed to explain immune memory, including T cell stimulation by cross-reactive antigens.
From a Far Country: Camisards and Huguenots in the Atlantic World. By Catharine Randall. (Athens, GA: University of Georgia Press, 2011. Pp. 192. $44.95.)

This author's most recent book adds an original element to recent scholarship on the Huguenot diaspora by examining the influence of the Camisard movement on international Protestantism. Catharine ...
Altruism Born of Suffering and Prosocial Behavior Following Adverse Life Events: A Review and Conceptualization

This paper introduces the concept of “altruism born of suffering,” and provides a review and integration of relevant research and theories from various disciplines. In contrast to the well-supported notion that prosocial behavior is rooted in positive experiences, whereas violence and adversity often contribute to further violence and antisocial behavior, it is proposed that suffering may actually enhance the motivation to help other disadvantaged members of society, including outgroups. A motivational process model is presented that includes a typology of altruism born of suffering, integrates clinical and social psychological perspectives on underlying processes, and proposes potential mediators and moderators. Relevant empirical studies are reviewed that provide initial support for this model. A particular emphasis is placed on victims of group-based violence, and implications for intergroup relations and social justice.
Comparison of mitomycin C and X-irradiation as blocking agents in one-way mixed leucocyte cultures.

THE mixed leucocyte culture (MLC) test1,2 has been widely used as a measure of histocompatibility in man and as a model for the recognition phase of the homograft response in vitro. Two methods have been proposed to achieve unidirectional stimulation in MLC: treatment of stimulating cells with either mitomycin C3 or X-irradiation3. The mitomycin C method has the advantage of not requiring expensive X-ray equipment and being immediately available in the laboratory; the X-ray method has the advantage of not requiring washing of the cells following treatment. Although much of the quantitative MLC work for histocompatibility testing in man has been done using mitomycin C, the general impression gained from the literature as well as the studies we report here would support the use of either method. A previous study4 suggested that irradiation is superior to mitomycin C treatment for a number of reasons, but we question those conclusions.
Programming language semantics and closed applicative languages

This paper proposes axioms to define a sequence of language-classes; the most general is that of "programming language", the most restricted has some simple and attractive properties. Here "language" is used in its traditional sense as referring to a set of interpreted expressions. We are concerned with the syntax of an expression only to the degree needed to relate its structure to its "meaning". A clear distinction is drawn between a "language" and the many possible "realizations" of that language.This introduction comprises a survey and opinionated discussion of the contents of the paper, therefore the reader who wishes to get on with the technical exposition can skip to the next section.
EFFECT OF A PROTEIN-FREE DIET ON PROTEIN METABOLISM IN THE PREGNANT RAT.

Estrone (0.5 Mg) and progesterone (6.0 μg) daily prevent the abortive effects of a protein-free diet but do not restore protein synthesis to normal levels in pregnant, protein-deficient rats. Thus, serum total protein, albumin, α1-globulin and A/G values were lower in protein-deficient, steroid-maintained rats than in rats pair-fed 20 % casein. Alanine and aspartic transaminase in uterus, placenta and liver were not altered by steroids or diet during pregnancy. Uteri, placentas and livers of protein-deficient, steroid-maintained rats weighed less and contained less total RNA and protein than did those of pair-fed controls, but total DNA in uterus and liver was not altered. Uterine and hepatic nucleic acids, as well as serum proteins and A/G ratios, were comparable in protein-deficient rats which maintained pregnancy with and without exogenous ovarian steroids. However, placenta] weight and total nucleic acids were greater in protein-deficient, injected rats than in uninjected rats fed the same diet. Possi...
Investigation of time-dependent correlation properties of the bidirectional dye ring laser

Fluctuations of the two mode intensities in an Rh6G-dye ring laser have been investigated experimentally by two-time photoelectric autocorrelation and cross-correlation measurements, over a range of working points from well below to well above threshold. The results are compared with computer solutions of the laser equations of motion containing both additive (quantum) noise and multiplicative (pumping) noise. The former noise is taken to be white, and the latter Lorentzian. Reasonable agreement between theory and experiment is obtained. Very large intensity fluctuations are observed just below threshold, which are attributable to pumping fluctuations. In this domain of operation both laser modes turn on and off together, and the intensity cross-correlation function is positive with relatively short correlation time. Well above threshold, on the other hand, the laser switches alternately between the two modes, and the intensity cross correlation is negative with long time constant. The mode switching is associated with quantum, or spontaneous emission, fluctuations and disappears in their absence. A graph of correlation time versus intensity exhibits a drastic steepening in the region where mode switching commences, even on a logarithmic scale, and this is consistent with first-passage time calculations.
High Heat flow along China Sea Margin

When Lamont-Doherty researchers Roger Anderson and Michael Hobart and three Chinese scientists set out in the Vema last December for 12 days of tests in the South China Sea, they were doing two things for the first time. The 88 site measurements they would make on the trip would become the first detailed heat flow values obtained across a continental margin, and the voyage would be made in the first joint explorations undertaken between scientists from the People's Republic of China and those from the United States since the thaw in relations between the two countries. The investigators were looking for two things, Anderson said at the AGU Spring Meeting in Toronto: (1) data for testing models of continental rifting (the southern part of the sea used to be attached to the Chinese mainland, but began to separate about 30 million years ago) and (2) indications of the potential for finding oil in the region.
Critical current behavior of superconducting granular NbN films

Abstract The temperature dependence of the critical current Ic(T) below the paracoherent-coherent phase transition Tcj in granular NbN films of high sheet resistance has been measured. Current-voltage (I–V) determinations of Ic revealed two distinctive temperature regions. Above T∗, (T∗≈ 0.6Tcj), nonlinear, but continuous I–V curves were obtained for I>Ic. Below T∗, the voltage discontinously jumped to a finite value at Ic and then increased linearly with current. At T∗, a sudden increase in Ic is observed. Small magnetic fields (
Bilharzia ova in cervical smears a possible additional route for the passage of ova into water

Abstract 1,901 slides from 3 clinics were examined for bilharzial ova and miracidia and 44 were found to be positive. The percentage of positives was higher in the Post-Natal group than in Family Planning or Gynaecological Out-Patients groups. This difference may be partly because of increased vascularity associated with pregnancy. The presence of viable ova as well as miracidia in some of the cases was demonstrated and their importance as a further possible mode of transmission of the disease is emphasized. This applies to both S. haematobium and S. mansoni. Some variation in the degree of excretion of ova, depending on the stage of the menstrual cycle, was noted in a small number of cases on which data on the menstrual cycle were available. Further work is being carried out on this point.
Evidence for adverse phonatory change following an inhaled combination treatment.

Purpose Voice problems are reported as a frequent side effect of inhaled combination (IC) treatments. The purpose of this experimental study was to investigate whether IC treatments are detrimental...
Structural and electroluminescence characteristics of nonpolar light-emitting diodes fabricated on lateral epitaxially overgrown a-plane GaN

We report on the structural and electroluminescence characteristics of blue and cyan a-plane InGaN/GaN light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Cross-sectional transmission emission microscopy revealed the generation of occasional "asymmetric V-defects" in the active region. The blue and cyan LEDs exhibited rectifying behavior with forward voltages of 2.4 and 3.5 V at 20 mA, respectively and series resistances of 7 and 8 Ω, respectively. On-wafer dc output powers as high as 1.8 and 1.0 mW were measured at a drive current of 300 mA for the blue and the cyan LEDs, respectively. Electroluminescence measurement revealed an initial blue shift in the emission wavelength with the increase in the drive current. We speculate that the emission wavelength shift is due to the band-filling effect as a result of localization in the inclined non-{1120} oriented facets, which are polar in nature.
Customers as assets

Abstract Customers are important intangible assets of a firm that should be valued and managed. Although researchers and practitioners have recently emphasized customer relationships and customer lifetime value, these concepts have had limited impact on the business and investment community for two main reasons: (a) they require extensive data and complex modeling, and (b) researchers have not shown a strong link between customer and firm value. We address these two issues in this article. First, we show how one can use publicly available information and a simple formula to estimate the lifetime value of a customer for a publicly traded firm. We illustrate this with several examples and case studies. Second, we provide a link between customer and firm value. We then show how this link provides guidelines for strategic decisions such as mergers and acquisitions as well as for assessing the value of a firm even when the traditional financial approaches (e.g., price–earnings ratio) fail.
Neuroendocrinology of cerebrospinal fluid: peptides, steroids, and other hormones

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been implicated as a conduit in neuroendocrine integration. Evidence suggests that the ventricular CSF may promote the central distribution, enable the dilutional inactivation (sink effect), and facilitate the peripheral delivery of neurally secreted hormones. This discussion of the sites of origin and concentration gradients of CSF hormones and of both physiological and pharmacological variations in the hormonal content of the CSF provides insight into the putative role of CSF in neuroendocrine regulation. Normal or control concentrations of peptides, steroids, and other hormones present in human lumbar CSF are listed to provide a physiological base line to which the CSF hormonal profile of patients may be compared. The individual, somatotopic, chronological, endocrinological, pharmacological, and possible artifactual variations in CSF hormonal composition are presented to facilitate the formulation of clinical protocols and to eliminate possible sources of error.
Behavior problems at ages 6 and 11 and high school academic achievement: longitudinal latent variable modeling.

Abstract Previous studies documented long-run effects of behavior problems at the start of school on academic achievement. However, these studies did not examine whether the observed effects of early behavior problems are explained by more proximate behavior problems, given the tendency of children's behavior problems to persist. Latent variable modeling was applied to estimate the effects of behavior problems at ages 6 and 11 on academic achievement at age 17, using data from a longitudinal study ( n = 823). Behavior problems at ages 6 and 11, each stage independently of the other, predicted lower math and reading test scores at age 17, controlling for intelligence quotient (IQ), birth weight, maternal characteristics, family and community environment, and taking into account behavior problems at age 17. Behavior problems at the start of school, independent of later behavior problems, exert lingering effects on achievement by impeding the acquisition of cognitive skills that are the foundation for later academic progress.
Pulmonary embolism risk stratification: pulse oximetry and pulmonary embolism severity index.

Abstract Background: Risk stratification of pulmonary embolism (PE) patients is important to determine appropriate management. Objectives: We evaluated two published risk-stratification tools in emergency department (ED) PE patients: a pulse oximetry cutoff below 92.5% oxygen (at 5280 feet elevation) and the Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (PESI). Methods: Electronic medical records of all patients diagnosed with PE were abstracted to identify their triage vital signs, co-morbidities, and adverse short-term outcomes (AO) either requiring interventions (defined as respiratory failure, hypotension requiring pressors, and hemodynamic impairment requiring thrombolytics) or resulting in death. We applied these models to our ED PE patients and assessed their performance. Results: There were 168 PE patients identified, with an overall AO rate of 7.1% (12/168), including a 3.0% mortality rate. A room-air pulse oximetry cutoff of 92.5%, for values measured at 5280 feet, classified 89/136 patients as low risk, 1.1% of which had an AO, and 47/136 patients as high risk, of which 10.6% had AO. This pulse oximetry cutoff had a sensitivity of 83% (95% confidence interval [CI] 36–99%), specificity of 68% (95% CI 58–76%), and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 99% (95% CI 93–100%). PESI classified 91/168 patients as low risk (class I or II): 2.2% had AO but none died, and 77/168 were classified as high risk (class III, IV, or V), with an AO rate of 13.0%. A PESI cutoff score of II had a sensitivity of 83% (95% CI 52–98%), specificity of 57% (95% CI 49–65%), and NPV of 98% (95% CI 92–100%). Conclusion: Both PESI and pulse oximetry measurements are moderately accurate identifiers of low-risk patients with PE.
Mechanisms of Strand Break Formation in DNA due to the Direct Effect of Ionizing Radiation: The Dependency of Free Base Release on the Length of Alternating CG Oligodeoxynucleotides

The question of how NA base sequence influences the yield of DNA strand breaks produced by the direct effect of ionizing radiation was investigated in a series of oligodeoxynucleotides of the form ...
Systemic and local saphenous vein graft thrombolysis using a tissue plasminogen activator

Many studies are currently evaluating the potential role of thrombolytic therapy in patients with ischemic syndromes who have undergone previous coronary artery bypass grafting. Limited experience has been published regarding the use of local urokinase and streptokinase infusions and the use of systemic recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator as thrombolytic agents in patients with previous coronary artery bypass surgery. To date, however, there has been no published experience regarding the use of recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA) either systemically or locally in the post-bypass patient where angiographic demonstration of aortocoronary saphenous vein graft obstruction was available pre- and post-therapy. Similarly there has been no previous report of the use of rt-PA infused locally to recanalize an occluded aortocoronary saphenous vein graft. This report describes successful thrombolysis and subsequent balloon angioplasty of saphenous vein grafts with angiographically documented thrombus using systemic and local rt-PA infusion.