cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interrogating Genomic Data in the Phylogenetic Placement of Treeshrews Reveals Potential Sources of Conflict

The position of some taxa on the Tree of Life remains controversial despite the increase in genomic data used to infer phylogenies. While analyzing large datasets alleviates stochastic errors, it does not prevent systematic errors in inference, caused by both biological (e.g., incomplete lineage sorting, hybridization) and methodological (e.g., incorrect modeling, erroneous orthology assessments) factors. In our study, we systematically investigated factors that could result in these controversies, using the treeshrew (Scandentia, Mammalia) as a study case. Recent studies have narrowed the phylogenetic position of treeshrews to three competing hypotheses: sister to primates and flying lemurs (Primatomorpha), sister to rodents and lagomorphs (Glires), or sister to a clade comprising all of these. We sampled 50 mammal species including three treeshrews, a selection of taxa from the potential sister groups, and outgroups. Using a large diverse set of loci, we assessed support for the alternative phylogenetic position of treeshrews. A plurality of loci support treeshrews as sister to rodents and lagomorphs; however, only a few loci exhibit strong support for any hypothesis. Surprisingly, we found that a subset of loci that strongly support the monophyly of Primates, support treeshrews as sister to primates and flying lemurs. The overall small magnitude of differences in phylogenetic signal among the alternative hypotheses suggests that these three groups diversified nearly simultaneously. However, with our large dataset and approach to examining support, we provide evidence for the hypothesis of treeshrews as sister to rodents and lagomorphs, while demonstrating why support for alternate hypotheses has been seen in prior work. We also suggest that locus selection can unwittingly bias results.
Synthesis and Structural Features of [4,4′-Diisopropoxyester-2,2′-bipyridine], [Dichloro(4,4′-diisopropoxyester-2,2′-bi-pyridine)-platinum(ii)] and Its Dichloromethane Solvated Pseudo-Polymorph: Versatile Supramolecular Interactions

The organic ligand 4,4′-diisopropoxyester-2,2′-bipyridine, C18H20N2O4 (1), crystallizes in the triclinic crystal system P-1 and the molecule occupies a special position in the unit cell. In the crystal, molecules form stacks with partial overlapping of the pyridine rings. The Pt(II) dichloro complex of 1 crystallizes from a mixture of ethanol/hexane and from dichloromethane to form orange and yellow crystals, respectively. The orange non-solvated crystals of the (bipyridine)(dichloro)platinum(II) complex C18H20N2O4PtCl2 (2) crystallize in the triclinic crystal system P-1 as well with two independent molecules in the unit cell. In the crystal packing, molecules form two types of dimers with Pt1···Pt1A and Pt2···Pt2A distances of 3.478 and 5.186 A, respectively. The yellow crystals, as a solvated pseudo-polymorph C18H20N2O4PtCl2·1.5 CH2Cl2 (3) also crystallize in the triclinic crystal system P-1 with two independent molecules in the unit cell. In the crystal packing, molecules form Pt2···Pt1···Pt1A···Pt2A intermolecular contacts with alternating distances 3.501 and 3.431 A, respectively, forming infinite chains. The dichloro(bipyridine)platinum complex, dichloro(4,4′-diisopropoxyester-2,2′-bipyridine)platinum(II), forms single crystals as a stable non-solvated form and a solvated polymorph with dramatically different supramolecular structure and short contacts.
Becoming Biliterate: Identity, Ideology, and Learning to Read and Write in Two Languages

Foreword Denny Taylor Preface 1. Introduction: A New Way of Thinking about Biliteracy 2. Emma as a Young Child 3. Writing Across Writing Systems: Theoretical Approaches 4. Writing and Drawing as Active Discovery 5. Early Writing as Social Practice: The Self in Action 6. Reading as Social Practice: Breaking the Code of Code-switching 7. "I Don't Want to be Japanese Anymore": When Emma Met School 8. The Journey of Becoming Biliterate References
Recognition by components: a theory of visual pattern recognition

Publisher Summary This chapter describes recent research and theory on the human's ability to recognize visual entities. The fundamental problem of object recognition is that any single object can project an infinity of image configurations to the retina. The orientation of the object to the viewer can vary continuously, each giving rise to a different two-dimensional projection. The object can be occluded by other objects or texture fields, as when viewed behind foliage. In addition, the object can even be missing some of its parts or be a novel exemplar of its particular category. However, it is only with rare exceptions that an image fails to bse rapidly and readily classified, either as an instance of a familiar object category or as an instance that cannot be so classified.
Initial report of a clinical trial of anti-1 amino 3 [18F]fluorocyclobutane-1-carboxylic acid (anti-[18F]FACBC) PET-CT in recurrent prostate cancer

521 Objectives Detecting the presence of extraprostatic spread has profound treatment implications in patients with recurrent prostate carcinoma. anti-[18F]FACBC is a synthetic L-leucine analog PET radiotracer with reported utility in detection of recurrent prostate carcinoma. Methods 8 patients with elevated PSA (2-29 ng/mL) after initial definitive therapy for prostate carcinoma underwent imaging of the abdomen and pelvis on a GE Discovery PET-CT at 4, 17, and 29 minutes after IV injection of 374-444 MBq of anti-[18F]FACBC. Each study was evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively. Maximum SUV in the prostate bed and within lymph nodes was correlated with presence of disease confirmed by biopsy or clinical/imaging criteria. Results anti-[18F]FACBC PET-CT was positive in the prostate bed in 7/8 patients and at extraprostatic nodes in 6/8 patients. In the prostate bed: 6/8 true positives, 1/8 false negative and 1/8 false positive studies. For nodal disease: 5/8 true positives, 2/8 true negatives, and 1/8 false positive studies. Mean (SD) SUV in malignant nodes (n=15; 8-31 mm): 7.4 (1.9) at 4 min; 6 (1.7) at 17 min. Benign nodes (n=10; 6-12 mm): SUV 3 (.9) at 4 min; 2 (1.1) at 17 min. Differences between benign and malignant nodal SUV were significant (p Conclusions anti-[18F]FACBC PET-CT identifies prostatic and extraprostatic recurrence with high accuracy including small lymph node involvement undetected by conventional imaging. Research Support Research sponsored by the NIH (1 R01 CA 129356-01)
The Automorphisms of B

The main purpose of this chapter is the description of the biholomorphic maps of B onto B. These will simply be called the automorphisms of B. They form a group, Aut(B), which may also be called the Moebius group of B, since the automorphisms turn out to be linear fractional transformations.
Multi-dimensional state estimation in adversarial environment

We consider the estimation of a vector state based on m measurements that can be potentially manipulated by an adversary. The attacker is assumed to have limited resources and can only manipulate up to l of the m measurements. However, it can the compromise measurements arbitrarily. The problem is formulated as a minimax optimization, where one seeks to construct an optimal estimator that minimizes the “worst-case” error against all possible manipulations by the attacker and all possible sensor noises. We show that if the system is not observable after removing 2l sensors, then the worst-case error is infinite, regardless of the estimation strategy. If the system remains observable after removing arbitrary set of 2l sensor, we prove that the optimal state estimation can be computed by solving a semidefinite programming problem. A numerical example is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed state estimator.
Corporate Social Responsibility, Corporate Social Performance & Sustainable Stakeholder Accounting

Disclosures of a corporation‟s socially responsible (CSR) activities and measurement of its performance in those activities are uneven, inconsistent, and incomparable. Given the absence of reporting standards, this is not surprising. This paper explores ways to "account for" CSR and presents an example of “sustainable stakeholder accounting” that can be used to integrate corporate social performance (CSP) into the financial statements which provide information for so many economic decisions. It suggests how the development of indices of social responsibility may facilitate analysis of a company's performance by quantifying and objectifying what is clearly a value-laden area. However, this will only be possible if current accounting standards are modified. Indeed, one of the primary objectives of this paper is to advocate changes in current accounting reporting practices so that a various aspects of CSR/CSP are made more transparent and can be more objectively assessed by the stakeholders who are impacted. To accomplish this, the form and substance of these disclosures must have “bottom line” meaning – and these disclosures should be mandated by accounting and securities regulations, not left to the discretion of individual companies.
Early discharge: in the end, it is judgment.

"Early to bed and early to rise, Makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise," proclaimed Benjamin Franklin.1 Early warning, early detection, early periodic screening, diagnosis and treatment, early dismissal, early filing—the litany goes on. Indeed, early has always connoted an astuteness, a positive gain of some sort. Yet recent newspaper and magazine articles have challenged that adage by calling attention to observations of untoward consequences resulting from early discharge of newborns and their mothers from the hospital (Sugg DK. Giving moms, newborns more time in the hospital. Baltimore Sun. April 4, 1995:1; Cost cuts shrink hospital stays for children. The New York Times. May 6, 1995; Nordheimer J. Broad coalition fights insurer limits on hospital maternity stays. The New York Times. June 6, 1995; Lord M. Check in, deliver, go home. us News and World Report. December 5, 1994:98-100). In anticipation of the need to address those observations, the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) of the Health Resources and Services Administration has taken the lead in assessing and tracking this issue nationally. This article describes the MCHB-supported investigations related to early discharge, including findings and recommending next steps. BACKGROUND The MCHB focus on length of hospital stay for newborns and their mothers began with an observation regarding rehospitalization of recently discharged newborns. Wallace et al of the San Diego County, CA, 1985 Cohort Infant Mortality Study Group,2 in work sponsored by the MCHB, reported that infants who died in the postneonatal period were significantly more likely to have been rehospitalized (excluding the hospitalization during which death occurred) than infants in the control group (surviving infants matched for plurality and month of birth).
Revolutionary Archaeology in Cuba

The Revolution of 1959 brought forth changes in the mission, theoretical orientation, and organization of archaeology in Cuba and created a role for, and constraints on, the profession that are unique in the Western Hemisphere. This paper draws upon examples from substantive field and laboratory research to examine the methods and theoretical perspectives of Cuban archaeology since the Revolution, focusing on the period from 1962 until the collapse of the Soviet Union. Archaeological practice during the Revolutionary period in Cuba has reflected the aims of the Revolutionary government, the influence of Soviet archaeology, the legacy of pre-Revolutionary approaches in North American archaeology, and the Cuban sense ofpatria.
Jurassic normal and strike-slip faults at Crater Island, northwestern Utah

At Crater Island, northern Silver Island Mountains, northwestern Utah, an unbroken Tertiary fault block within the Basin and Range province exhibits Jurassic or older structures that are virtually unmodified by subsequent tectonism, providing an opportunity to examine the tectonics of the Jurassic back arc of the Cordillera. Widespread high-angle faults, mainly striking north and northeast, offset the moderately west-dipping strata down to the west, thereby extending the strata parallel to bedding by 10% to 20%. These faults apparently belong to a single kinematic event of west-northwest oriented extension subparallel to bedding. The normal faults merge with a north-northwest dextral strike-slip fault system. The two fault systems are kinematically compatible, suggesting that they may have been contemporaneous. A low-angle (thrust?) fault nearly parallel to bedding within Ordovician strata is cut by the high-angle faults. Intrusive relations with about 160 Ma granitoid rocks show that all of these faults are Late Jurassic or older, with a reasonable lower age limit of Early Jurassic established on the basis of paleogeographic reconstructions using sedimentary deposits in the region. Jurassic dikes indicate a minimum horizontal compression direction that is parallel to the extension direction indicated by the normal faults, thus supporting the inference that normal and strike-slip faulting took place during the late Middle or early Late Jurassic. We interpret these data to indicate that minor thrusting, probably during the Jurassic, was followed by extensional faulting within a strike-slip fault system, probably close in time to intrusion. These relations are similar to those reported previously in the nearby Newfoundland Mountains. Other mountains of northern Utah and adjacent Nevada also have examples of Jurassic normal faults that contrast with the more generally observed thrust faults and tectonite fabrics. These data point to a possible regional extensional tectonic event affecting the crust far inland of the Jurassic magmatic arc, an event probably associated with back-arc magmatism.
Review of Comorbidities and Risk Factors for the Development of Migraine Complications (Infarct and Chronic Migraine)

A number of comorbid disorders, behavioural traits and associated risk factors in patients with migraine are known to increase the risk of complications such as ischaemic vascular events and chronic migraine, a syndrome that is more disabling and resistant to treatment with acute and preventative medications than episodic migraine. Reduction of cardiovascular risk factors, smoking cessation and use of non-oestrogen-containing oral contraceptives in female patients are beneficial strategies to reduce the risk of ischaemic events in patients with migraine (especially those with aura). Attack frequency, acute medication overuse, obesity and coexisting depression and anxiety disorders are particularly strong but potentially modifiable independent risk factors for progression to chronic migraine. Identifying and managing comorbidities and associated risk factors for complications of migraine are likely to require an integrated disease management strategy involving several disciplines and allied health services. Such a disease-oriented model of care may potentially interrupt the cycle of progression and disability and improve quality of life for patients with migraine.
Species differences in amphetamine toxicity: Effects of aggregation, acute and chronic reserpine pretreatment in mice and rats

Abstract Marked differences in amphetamine toxicity between rats and mice are presented. The major differences can be summarized as follows: 1. 1. The effect of aggregation on amphetamine toxicity, while prominent in mice, is not a factor in rats. 2. 2. The protective effect of a single dose of reserpine has been confirmed in grouped mice. The rat, however, shows an increased susceptibility to some doses of amphetamine under these conditions. 3. 3. A dramatic increase in the lethality of amphetamine is produced in rats chronically treated with reserpine. This effect is equivocal in mice.
Effect of transforming growth factor β on postoperative adhesion formation and intact peritoneum

Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) is an extremely potent chemoattractant for macrophages, mononuclear leukocytes, and fibroblasts. It also acts as a potent stimulant for collagen and fibronectin synthesis and inhibits epithelial cell growth. TGFβ plays an important role in healing many types of wounds, but its role in peritoneal adhesion formation is not known. These studies were performed to determine if TGFβ could affect postoperative wound healing in a rat model. In the first experiment, 20 rats were divided into two groups and received either 2 μg TGFβ or control diluent IP daily for 5 days after surgical injury to the uterine horns. The severity of the adhesions were graded 2 weeks postoperatively using a score of 0–3. The TGFβ group showed a higher adhesion score at 2 weeks compared to control, 2.9 ± 0.34 and 1.6 ± 0.61, respectively (P < 0.001). On H&E stained sections of the adhesions, there was an increase in the number of both inflammatory cells and fibroblasts in the TGFβ-treated animals. A comparison trial of bone-derived TGFβ (a gift from Collagen Corporation, Palo Alto, CA) versus recombinant TGFβ (a gift from Oncogen, Seattle, WA) versus control using the same protocol as above showed that both sources of TGFβ were more effective in promoting postoperative adhesions when compared to controls, and there was no difference between TGFβ groups, 3.0 ± 0 for both TGFβ groups, and 2.2 ± 0.91 for control (P < 0.001). TGFβ did not induce adhesions when given in the same dosage for 5 days ip in unoperated rats, although it did induce fibrosis if injected into the abdominal wall. These data suggest that TGFβ may play a role in stimulating fibrosis in postoperative fibrinous adhesions, but has no effect on intact mesothelium. Prevention of TGFβ production postoperatively may help prevent adhesion formation.
Arterial Embolization for the Management of Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage from Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma

Patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) involving the gastrointestinal (GI) tract may present with hemorrhage. Eight arterial embolization procedures were performed to treat five upper GI lesions and one ileal metastatic RCC lesion in five patients with GI bleeding. Control of GI hemorrhage for at least 30 days was achieved following six of the eight embolizations (75%) in four of the five patients (80%). Duration of response ranged from 1 to 26 months. Complications including GI ischemia and nontarget embolization were not encountered. Arterial embolization can be used safely for palliation of hemorrhage from RCC metastases to the GI tract.
ON POISSON GROUPOIDS

Some important properties of Poisson groupoids are discussed. In particular, we obtain a useful formula for the Poisson tensor of an arbitrary Poisson groupoid, which generalizes the well-known multiplicativity condition for Poisson groups. Morphisms between Poisson groupoids and between Lie bialgebroids are also discussed. In particular, for a special class of Lie bialgebroid morphisms, we give an explicit lifting construction. As an application, we prove that a Poisson group action on a Poisson manifold lifts to a Poisson action on its α-simply connected symplectic groupoid.
Effect of Arabian Sea-Surface Temperature Anomaly on Indian Summer Monsoon: A Numerical Experiment with the GFDL Model

Abstract The global general circulation model of the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory has been integrated with and without a cold sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly over the Somali coast and the western Arabian Sea. The temperature anomaly is −3°C near the Somali coast and linearly decreases eastward having zero anomaly at about 1500 km east of the coast. Comparison of the mean of the two model states indicates that the rainfall over India and the adjoining region is drastically reduced due to the colder SST anomaly over the western Arabian Sea. The other associated features due to the cold anomaly are an increase in sea surface pressure over the Arabian Sea, a decrease in local evaporation, and a reduction in the cross equatorial component of the wind at the surface and hence a reduction in the cross equatorial moisture flux. Statistical analysis of the results has been done by comparing the difference between the two mean states (“signal”) and the standard deviation of the errors (“noise”) in es...
M1-M2 balancing act in white adipose tissue browning – a new role for RIP140

A "Holy Grail" sought in medical treatment of obesity is to be able to biologically reprogram their adipose tissues to burn fat rather than store it. White adipose tissue (WAT) stores fuel and its expansion underlines insulin resistance (IR) whereas brown adipose tissue (BAT) burns fuel and stimulates insulin sensitivity. These two types of fats seesaw within our bodies via a regulatory mechanism that involves intricate communication between adipocytes and blood cells, particularly macrophages that migrate into adipose deposits. The coregulator, Receptor Interacting Protein 140 (RIP140), plays a key role in regulating this communication. In mice on a high-fat diet, the level of RIP140 in macrophages is dramatically elevated to activate their inflammatory M1 polarization and enhance their recruitment into WAT, facilitating IR. Conversely, lowering the level of RIP140 in macrophages not only reduces M1 macrophages but also expands alternatively polarized, anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages, triggering white adipose tissue browning, fat burning, and restoration of insulin sensitivity. This suggests a potential therapeutic strategy for reversing IR, obesity, and atherosclerotic or even cosmetic fat deposits: therapeutic browning of white adipose deposits by diminishing RIP140 levels in macrophages.
The Role of Perceived Barriers and Relational Support in the Educational and Vocational Lives of Urban High School Students.

Drawing on developmental contextual theory, the authors examined the relationship of perceived barriers and support with school engagement and vocational attitudes among 9th-grade urban high school students in 2 studies. Study 1 (N = 174) showed that both perceived barriers and perceived support from family kin were associated with youths' commitment to school and aspirations for success in their future careers. Study 2 (N = 181) replicated and extended Study 1, demonstrating that perceived barriers, general perceptions of support, and kinship support were associated with behavioral and attitudinal indexes of school engagement, as well as with aspirations for career success, expectations for attaining career goals, and the importance of work in one's future. The findings contribute to efforts to identify individual and contextual factors relevantto the educational and vocational lives of urban minority youth.
Entree to america's traditional upper class

Sociology is a discipline dedicated to the study of social class. Yet, personal access on the part of sociologists to the upper class has been limited. This work explores methodological issues in studying those who are of higher status through the description of accessing and interviewing a national group of upper-class persons. The group are members of the Jockey Club—an organization that for one hundred years has had an influential role in the thoroughbred racing industry. The issues include acknowledging the possible role of conceptions of the upper class in guiding the research, gaining access, establishing some common basis for interaction, developing trust, and obtaining informed consent. The nature of the interview process and the level of exchange between the researcher and the subjects provide some direction for future study of the upper class.
Does transformational leadership style influence employees’ attitudes toward food safety practices?

Abstract The objectives of this study were to examine whether transformational leadership style (TL) and organizational climate (OC) impact employees’ attitudes and intentions to follow safe food handling practices. We also set out to investigate the moderating effect of food safety certification on the relationships among TL, OC, and employees’ attitudes and intentions to follow food safety practices in restaurants. Questionnaires were distributed to restaurants in one state. Structural equation modeling techniques and multiple group analysis were used. The results of this study indicate that TL did not impact employees’ attitudes and intentions. However, TL significantly impacted OC, and OC significantly impacted employees’ attitudes and intentions to follow safe food handling practices; additionally, employees’ attitudes significantly impacted intentions to perform safe food handling practices. Furthermore, the moderating effect of food safety certification on the relationships among TL, OC, and employees’ attitudes and intentions was also significant. The results of this study not only provide a theoretical framework but also present more detailed diagnostic information regarding the impact of TL and OC on employees’ attitudes and intentions to follow safe food handling practices.
Differentiating violent and nonviolent prison inmates by use of selected MMPI scales

Used multivariate procedures to determine whether prisoners who committed violent acts while in prison could be differentiated from those who did not. Ss were 141 adult male inmates in maximum security prisons. Multiple variable profile analysis that employed 22 MMPI scales and four demographic items significantly differentiated between violet and nonviolent inmates. Discriminant analysis that used all 26 variables yielded a significant root that accounted for 34.9% of the variance between violent and nonviolent inmates. The MMPI scales that contributed most to prediction of group membership were F, PA, PT, and SC, all of which had discriminant load values above .40. Finally, a discriminant function prediction equation was derived to predict the criterion variable (violent or nonviolent behavior). Applying this equation without knowledge of the S's actual group membership correctly classified 72.9% of the violent and 80.6% of the nonviolent inmates. Language: en
Macroion Attraction Due to Electrostatic Correlation between Screening Counterions. 1. Mobile Surface-Adsorbed Ions and Diffuse Ion Cloud

Highly charged macroion surfaces in solutions of multivalent electrolytes attract each other electrostatically through correlations in their counterion environment. We show that significant correlation occurs when the counterion distribution has a pseudo-two-dimensional character. This allows us to treat the electrostatic correlation attraction semianalytically by reducing the problem to interaction between layers of adsorbed but mobile counterions neutralizing surfaces of similar charge density. Both when the counterion distribution is in the two-dimensional limit, and when it has a more realistic three-dimensional character, Coulomb repulsion between counterions produces an alternation of positive and negative charges at the surface. Two such apposing patterns adjust complementarily to each other, resulting in electrostatic attraction of the surfaces. The magnitude of this attraction depends solely on the surface charge density and the solution dielectric constant, while its range is defined by the size...
Improved Survival With Multiple Left-Sided Bilateral Internal Thoracic Artery Grafts

Abstract Background . Although conceptually sound, the use of multiple internal thoracic artery (ITA) bypass grafts to improve long-term clinical results remains controversial. This operation typically involves grafting the left ITA to the anterior descending artery and the right ITA to the right coronary artery. Past clinical studies of bilateral ITA operations have not examined comparative results associated with which coronary arteries received the ITA bypass grafts. Because grafting a superior conduit to an artery of lesser physiologic importance might reduce the clinical benefits, we compared the outcomes of patients receiving different configurations of bilateral ITA operations. Methods . The study group was 498 consecutive bilateral ITA operations, constituting the 10-year experience of a single surgeon. Follow-up averaged 7.1 years (mode 7.3 years), and was 94.2% complete. These patients were divided into two groups, 311 patients (group I) who underwent the traditional operation (left ITA to the left anterior descending artery, right ITA to the right coronary artery), and 187 patients (group II) who received revascularization of branches of the left coronary artery (left ITA to the circumflex system and right ITA to the left anterior descending artery). Results . The study groups were similar in age, severity of disease, number of bypassed arteries, ejection fraction, diabetes, hypertension, and duration of operation. There were more male patients in group II (91.4% versus 82.3%). A multivariate analysis showed that the location of ITA bypass grafts influenced survival independent of gender ( p = 0.0288). Operative morbidity and mortality were similar between groups. Ninety-three patients had repeat angiography with equivalent patency rates of the ITA conduits (91.7% versus 89.6%; p = 0.67). The Kaplan-Meier actuarial survival estimate demonstrated a significant improvement in survival of patients in group II who received both ITA bypass grafts to left-sided arteries ( p = 0.021), with the survival curves diverging at 6 years. More patients in group II were in New York Heart Association class I or II, but the difference was not statistically significant (94.6% versus 91.6%). Only 2 patients required reoperation. Conclusions . It appears that maximum long-term benefit from bilateral ITA operations is achieved by grafting the ITA conduits to coronary arteries that supply more left ventricular muscle.
Electrocardiographic Left Atrial Abnormalities and Risk of Ischemic Stroke

Background and Purpose— We evaluated the association between electrocardiographic left atrial abnormality (ECG-LAA) and ischemic stroke, especially whether ECG-LAA provides additional prognostic information to that provided by echocardiography. Methods— A population-based, case-control study included 146 patients with first ischemic stroke and 195 age-, gender-, and race/ethnicity-matched community control subjects. ECG-LAA was defined as either P-wave duration >120 ms or P-terminal force in precordial lead V1 (PTFV1) >40 ms·mm. Results— PTFV1 >40 ms·mm was associated with ischemic stroke after adjustment for other stroke risk factors (odds ratio [OR], 2.32; 95% CI, 1.29 to 4.18). The association remained significant after adding echocardiographic left atrial diameter to the model (OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.28 to 4.17). PTFV1 was independently associated with stroke in patients in the upper half of echocardiographically determined left ventricular mass (adjusted OR, 4.5; 95% CI, 2.20 to 9.15) but not in those i...
Brand Loyalties: Qualitative, Quantitative, or Both?

Consumer loyalties for particular brands of products appear to be an established fact. Brand loyalty is an important aid to firms that have recognized brands. What has been lacking in theoretical models of consumer brand loyalty has been a consistent and widely acceptable definition. A number of specific hypotheses have been advanced to explain why some consumers switch from one brand to another. There is usually empirical evidence of some kind for any one of the theoretical positions. Qualitative models present a view of consumer purchasing as being caused by something as opposed to quantitative models which show purchasing as being a function of random processes. Qualitative models can be categorized as being behavioral descriptions of internal psychological states which explain the behavior under study. A unified definition of brand loyalty is needed. Brand loyalty must be a reflection of consistent purchasing behavior and favorable attitudes.
Are cross-cultural comparisons of norms on death anxiety valid?

Cross-cultural comparisons of norms derived from research on Death Anxiety are valid as long as they provide existential validity. Existential validity is not empirically derived like construct val...
The Influence of Self-Esteem on Cognitive Responses to Machine-Like versus Human-Like Computer Feedback

Abstract Business school students (N = 49) who were preclassified as being either high or low in self-esteem (Texas Social Behavior Inventory) interacted with a computer that delivered either human-like, neutral, or machine-like feedback. In line with a compensatory, self-enhancement perspective (Baumeister, 1982), this experiment found that persons high in self-esteem generated more negative cognitive responses and made fewer errors when faced with human-like rather than machinelike feedback from a computer. Overall, however, persons low in self-esteem did not perform more poorly than did persons high in self-esteem.
The GB Virus C (GBV-C) NS3 Serine Protease Inhibits HIV- 1 Replication in a CD4+ T Lymphocyte Cell Line without Decreasing HIV Receptor Expression

Introduction: Persistent infection with GBV-C (GB Virus C), a non-pathogenic virus related to hepatitis C virus (HCV), prolongs survival in HIV infection. Two GBV-C proteins, NS5A and E2, have been shown previously to inhibit HIV replication in vitro. We investigated whether the GBV-C NS3 serine protease affects HIV replication. Results: GBV-C NS3 protease expressed in a human CD4+ T lymphocyte cell line significantly inhibited HIV replication. Addition of NS4A or NS4A/4B coding sequence to GBV-C NS3 increased the effect on HIV replication. Inhibition of HIV replication was dose-dependent and was not mediated by increased cell toxicity. Mutation of the NS3 catalytic serine to alanine resulted in loss of both HIV inhibition and protease activity. GBV-C NS3 expression did not measurably decrease CD4 or CXCR4 expression. Conclusion: GBV-C NS3 serine protease significantly inhibited HIV replication without decreasing HIV receptor expression. The requirement for an intact catalytic serine at the active site indicates that inhibition was mediated by proteolytic cleavage of an unidentified target(s).
A theoretical treatment for the kinetics of monolayer desorption from interfaces

Abstract The kinetics of monolayer desorption at constant surface pressure was analyzed on the basis of the following model. A monolayer at the air-water interface at constant surface pressure dissolves into a thin region immediately below the film, and then diffuses through an unstirred layer into the bulk solution which is stirred by convection. The influence on the over-all desorption kinetics of (a) polymerization of the film material, (b) ionization of the film material, (c) dissolution, i.e., monolayer dissolving from the surface into the unstirred layer, and (d) diffusion within the unstirred layer was considered. The theoretical results are illustrated with an analysis of the desorption kinetics of monooctadeeyl phosphate (m-OP) monolayers. For m-OP, the rate of desorption appears to be limited by both diffusion and film dissolution.
A generation effect in memory without awareness

Priming refers to the facilitatory effects of a prior experience on the performance of some cognitive task or skill. In a word-fragment completion task, priming is shown if words from a previously presented study list are more likely to be completed than other words. An experiment is described which shows that priming in word-fragment completion was enhanced for words that had been generated at study, from the same fragments as those used at test, rather than read. Because subjects were unaware that any memory test occurred, this generation effect in primed fragment completion does not depend on conscious recollection. It is argued that the effect arises in some memory system other than episodic memory, and reflects data-driven rather than conceptually driven processing.
A Time of Change

movers of the JAAGL have moved to emeritus status—Robert B. Hunt M.D., Editor-in-Chief since the inception of the Journal has become Editor-in-Chief Emeritus, and Jordan M. Phillips, M.D., who conceived of a journal devoted to endoscopy has become the Managing Editor Emeritus. The JAAGL’s first issue was published in November 1993 under the supervision of Drs. Hunt and Phillips. It now has a circulation of 4457. It was approved in 1997 for inclusion in Index Medicus at the National Library of Medicine. Its Impact Factor, which measures the frequency with which it is quoted in other publications, has progressively risen from 0.732 in 1999 to 1.268 in 2001. During the calendar year of 2001, it published a total of 110 articles; 49 were from North America, 24 from Asia, 24 from Europe, 9 from the Middle East, 3 from Australia, and 1 from South America. All of this describes a very successful journal. But where did it come from? For many years Dr. Phillips encouraged the Board of Trustees of the AAGL to publish its own journal. But the Board was not convinced there was enough material to deserve the publication of another journal. However, in January 1993 the Board again, at Dr. Phillips’s encouragement, addressed the issue once more. Judging from the minutes of that meeting there was considerable discussion. Dr. Donald Chatman was clearly in favor and was supported by Drs. Brian Cohen, Harrith Hasson, and Barbara Levy. Finally, a motion by Dr. Alan Johns to establish the Journal was approved: seven in favor, two against. Dr. Phillips’s long held dream had come to fruition. It is one thing, however, to make a decision and another to make it succeed. The AAGL Board clearly made a very excellent decision when it selected Robert Hunt as Editor-inChief. Under his leadership the JAAGL has become a premier journal covering not only endoscopy but other minimally invasive surgical options for women. It has addressed the interests, research activities and clinical experience of the AAGL membership, who are early adapters of new concepts and technology. In the
Synthesis and Application of Carbohydrate-Containing Polymers

Polysaccharides and glycoproteins participate in a number of biochemical reactions and cell−cell recognition processes in vivo. Synthetic carbohydrate-based polymers are being increasingly explored as biodegradable, biocompatible, and biorenewable materials for use as water absorbents, chromatographic supports, and medical devices. Moreover, synthetic polymers bearing sugar residues can also offer a good surface for cell attachment and, thus, might be applied to cell recognization events in antimicrobial/viral and tissue engineering. This review presents various synthetic approaches for the preparation of sugar-containing polymers.
The Distributed Data Interface in GAMESS

The Distributed Data Interface to permit storage of large data arrays in the aggregate memory of distributed memory, message passing computer systems is described. The design of this relatively small library is discussed, in regard to its implementation over SHMEM, MPI-1, or socket based message libraries. The good performance of a MP2 program using DDI is demonstrated on both PC and workstation cluster computers, and some details of the resulting message traffic are presented.
A Comparison of the Sexual Risk Behaviors of Asian American and Pacific Islander College Students and Their Peers.

Abstract Background: Asian American and Pacifc Islanders (AAPIs) have been neglected in health research. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to (1) describe the sexual risk behaviors of a sample of AAPI community college students using questions from the National College Health Risk Behavior Survey, and (2) to compare the sexual risk behaviors of AAPI study participants (n=138) to their non-Asian peers (n=328). Methods: Comparisons were made between AAPI and non-Asian study participants using a z-test. Results: AAPI study participants were significantly more likely than their non-Asian peers to practice abstinence, limit their number of sexual partners, and use condoms. An unexpected finding was that AAPI participants were more likely to report a history of a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Discussion: Research suggests that mother-daughter sexual communication during adolescence is a crucial prerequisite to the practice of safer sex behaviors. A lack of sexual communication with parents during chil...
Deep-UV photolithography linewidth variation from reflective substrates

Thin-film interference effects change the fraction of energy available for absorption in the photoresist, resulting directly in linewidth changes. This paper addresses the absorbed energy variation due to the variation in films underlying the photoresist. An optical thin-film interference model is developed and compared to measured reflectivity data for continuously varying silicon nitride under DUV positive photoresist. The model is used to predict an improved linewidth control of greater than a factor of three for broadband over monochromatic illumination, which is also experimentally verified. In addition, simulated and measured data are presented with and without an antireflective coating underlying the resist.
Sensation Seeking, Exercise, and Dopamine Beta Hydroxylase

Abstract In a previous study (Calhoon, Personality and Individual Differences , 9 , 941–949, 1988), sensation seekers (downhill skiers) were found to have significantly higher blood plasma levels of dopamine beta hydroxylase (DBH) than a control group. The current study was conducted to determine if the acute effects of exercise might have contributed to the higher DBH levels among skiers. The experiment consisted of the administration of the Sensation Seeking Form V (SSSV), the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire, the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST), and the Zuckerman- Kuhlman Personality Questionnaire (ZKPQ); a pre-exercise withdrawal of 5 ml of blood, a 1-mile run, and a post-exercise 5-ml blood sample. Post-exercise DBH levels were just slightly elevated for the entire sample of 51 subjects. There were no significant correlations between sensation seeking and DBH levels for all subjects combined; however, when subjects were grouped by age or sex, positive relationships were obtained.
Cutaneous vasomotor effects of neuropeptide Y.

The effects of neuropeptide Y (NPY) were examined on the cutaneous microvascular blood flow (CMF) of the hindpaws in anesthetized rats. NPY (0.5-50 nmol/kg), infused intra-arterially into the hindpaw circulation, produced sustained dose-dependent increases in CMF (29 +/- 7% to 210 +/- 52%) indicating cutaneous vasodilation. Denervation of a hindpaw, ganglionic or alpha-adrenergic blockade significantly elevated the resting CMF indicating tonic vasoconstrictor sympathetic input to the cutaneous vasculature. In the denervated hindpaw or following ganglionic blockade, NPY produced sustained decreases in CMF (up to 51 +/- 8%) indicating vasoconstriction. Effects of the Y1 receptor agonist, (Leu31, Pro34) NPY were identical to those of NPY. The Y2 receptor agonist, NPY13-36 increased CMF of the intact hindpaw (24 +/- 10%-68 +/- 16% at 5-150 nmol/kg, i.a.) but did not affect CMF of the denervated hindpaw. NPY and (Leu31, Pro34)NPY, but not NPY13-36, produced significant pressor effects. These data suggest that: 1) NPY produces neurogenic cutaneous vasodilation via presynaptic Y2 receptor-mediated inhibition of sympathetic tone, 2) Y1 receptors may also exist presynaptically, however, it is likely that (Leu31, Pro34)NPY does not distinguish between Y1 and Y2 receptors, and 3) activation of postsynaptic Y1 receptors produces vasoconstriction which is unmasked only when the noradrenergic tone is eliminated.
High Resolution Photoelectron Study of the Optimum Oxygen Doping Levels in High Tc Superconductors

The materials and electronic properties of the new cuprate superconductors are critically dependent upon both the oxygen stoichiometry and annealing history of the material. Improving Jc, Tc, and determining the underlying mechanism of superconductivity depend on a better understanding of these effects. In the study of Bi 2 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O 8-δ we have combined standard material characterization techniques with high resolution angle resolved photoemission spectroscopy and resonant photoemission spectroscopy to illuminate these issues. Specifically, we make high quality single crystals of BSCCO and then anneal in different atmospheres and pressures. We correlate this with c-axis resistivity, a, b-plane resistivity, and resonant photoemission spectroscopy. In this way we can explain the macroscopic transport properties in terms of the electronic properties of the material determined from photoemission. We find that we can change the c-axis resistivity from non-metallic to metallic by adding oxygen and that this correlates with increased oscillator strength in the c-axis direction at the Fermi level.
Pressurized gases in contact with liquid reversed micellar solutions — effects on micellar size and stability, and biotechnological applications

Abstract We present some recent findings on the modifications of reversed micellar solutions through contact with gases at enhanced pressures. Micellar stability is greatly affected by gas solubility in the bulk solvent, leading to a pressure-induced cloud point wherein phase-splitting occurs. The cloud point characteristics can be adjusted by manipulating gas-solvent and surfactant-solvent interactions. In addition, at appropriate thermodynamic conditions, clathrate hydrates can be induced to form in the microaqueous phase and subsequently precipitate out. The phenomenon can be utilized to provide an in-situ control of micelle size. We discuss some of the basic thermodynamics of hydrate formation in reversed micelles, in conjunction with spectroscopic data. Analogies to micelle formation in supercritical and near-critical solvents are discussed. We have shown that the phenomenon has potential applications to biocatalysis and bioseparations, and our work in this area is reviewed.
Technical Note: Simulation of AN H2/O2 Flame by the Least-Squares Finite Element Method

The aim of this paper is to use the least-squares finite element method to simulate a quasi-one-dimensional H 2 /O 2 flame with comprehensive physical property models.
Locally adaptive, spatially explicit projection of US population for 2030 and 2050

Localized adverse events, including natural hazards, epidemiological events, and human conflict, underscore the criticality of quantifying and mapping current population. Building on the spatial interpolation technique previously developed for high-resolution population distribution data (LandScan Global and LandScan USA), we have constructed an empirically informed spatial distribution of projected population of the contiguous United States for 2030 and 2050, depicting one of many possible population futures. Whereas most current large-scale, spatially explicit population projections typically rely on a population gravity model to determine areas of future growth, our projection model departs from these by accounting for multiple components that affect population distribution. Modeled variables, which included land cover, slope, distances to larger cities, and a moving average of current population, were locally adaptive and geographically varying. The resulting weighted surface was used to determine which areas had the greatest likelihood for future population change. Population projections of county level numbers were developed using a modified version of the US Census’s projection methodology, with the US Census’s official projection as the benchmark. Applications of our model include incorporating multiple various scenario-driven events to produce a range of spatially explicit population futures for suitability modeling, service area planning for governmental agencies, consequence assessment, mitigation planning and implementation, and assessment of spatially vulnerable populations.