cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Trunk kinematics and muscle activation patterns during stand-to-sit movement and the relationship with postural stability in aging.

Abstract Background Stand-to-sit (StandTS) movement is an important functional activity that can be challenging for older adults due to age-related changes in neuromotor control. Although trunk flexion, eccentric contraction of the rectus femoris (RF), and coordination of RF and biceps femoris (BF) muscles are important to the StandTS task, the effects of aging on these and related outcomes are not well studied. Research question What are the age-related differences in trunk flexion, lower extremity muscle activation patterns, and postural stability during a StandTS task and what is the relationship between these variables? Methods Ten younger and ten older healthy adults performed three StandTS trials at self-selected speeds. Outcomes included peak amplitude, peak timing, burst duration, and onset latency of electromyography (EMG) activity of the RF and BF muscles, trunk flexion angle and angular velocity, whole body center of mass (CoM) displacement, center of pressure (CoP) velocity, and ground reaction force (GRF). Results There were no age-related differences in weight-bearing symmetry, StandTS and trunk flexion angular velocity, or BF activity. In both groups, EMG peak timing of RF was preceded by BF. Compared to younger adults, older adults demonstrated shorter RF EMG burst duration, reduced trunk flexion, and reduced stability as indicated by the longer duration in which CoM was maintained beyond the posterior limit of base of support (BoS), greater mean anterior-posterior CoP velocity and larger standard deviation of CoM vertical acceleration during StandTS with smaller vertical GRF immediately prior to StandTS termination. Trunk flexion angle and RF EMG burst duration correlated with stability as measured by the duration in which the CoM stayed within the BoS. Significance Decreased trunk flexion and impaired eccentric control of the RF are associated with StandTS instability in aging and suggest the importance of including StandTS training as a part of a comprehensive balance intervention.
Molecular Genetic and Genomic Alterations in Cushing's Syndrome and Primary Aldosteronism.

The genetic alterations that cause the development of glucocorticoid and/or mineralocorticoid producing benign adrenocortical tumors and hyperplasias have largely been elucidated over the past two decades through advances in genomics. In benign aldosterone-producing adrenocortical tumors and hyperplasias, alteration of intracellular calcium signaling has been found to be significant in aldosterone hypersecretion, with causative defects including those in KCNJ5, ATP1A1, ATP2B3, CACNA1D, CACNA1H, and CLCN2. In benign cortisol-producing adrenocortical tumors and hyperplasias abnormal cyclic adenosine monophosphate-protein kinase A signaling has been found to play a central role in tumorigenesis, with pathogenic variants in GNAS, PRKAR1A, PRKACA, PRKACB, PDE11A, and PDE8B being implicated. The role of this signaling pathway in the development of Cushing’s syndrome and adrenocortical tumors was initially discovered through the study of the underlying genetic defects causing the rare multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes McCune-Albright syndrome and Carney complex with subsequent identification of defects in genes affecting the cyclic adenosine monophosphate-protein kinase A pathway in sporadic tumors. Additionally, germline pathogenic variants in ARMC5, a putative tumor suppressor, were found to be a cause of cortisol-producing primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia. This review describes the genetic causes of benign cortisol- and aldosterone-producing adrenocortical tumors.
Working memory in adults who stutter using a visual N-back task.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate working memory in adults who do (AWS) and do not (AWNS) stutter using a visual N-back task. Processes involved in an N-back task include encoding, storing, rehearsing, inhibition, temporal ordering, and matching. Methods Fifteen AWS (11 males, 4 females; M = 23.27 years, SD = 5.68 years) and 15 AWNS (M = 23.47 years, SD = 6.21 years) were asked to monitor series of images and respond by pressing a “yes” button if the image they viewed was the same as the image one, two, or three trials back. Stimuli included images with phonologically similar (i.e., phonological condition) or phonologically dissimilar (i.e., neutral condition) names. Accuracy and manual reaction time (mRT) were analyzed. Results No difference was found between AWS and AWNS in accuracy. Furthermore, both groups were more accurate and significantly faster in 1- followed by 2- followed by 3-back trials. Finally, AWNS demonstrated faster mRT in the phonological compared to neutral condition, whereas AWS did not. Conclusion Results from this study suggest different processing mechanisms between AWS and AWNS for visually presented phonologically similar stimuli. Specifically, a phonological priming effect occurred in AWNS but not in AWS, potentially due to reduced spreading activation and organization in the mental lexicon of AWS. However, the lack of differences between AWS and AWNS across all N-back levels does not support deficits in AWS in aspects of working memory targeted through a visual N-back task; but, these results are preliminary and additional research is warranted.
Borrelia peptidoglycan interacting Protein (BpiP) contributes to the fitness of Borrelia burgdorferi against host-derived factors and influences virulence in mouse models of Lyme disease

The Peptidoglycan (PG) cell wall of the Lyme disease (LD) spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb), contributes to structural and morphological integrity of Bb; is a persistent antigen in LD patients; and has a unique pentapeptide with L-Ornithine as the third amino acid that cross-links its glycan polymers. A borrelial homolog (BB_0167) interacted specifically with borrelilal PG via its peptidoglycan interacting motif (MHELSEKRARAIGNYL); was localized to the protoplasmic cylinder of Bb; and was designated as Borrelia peptidoglycan interacting Protein (BpiP). A bpiP mutant displayed no defect under in vitro growth conditions with similar levels of several virulence-related proteins. However, the burden of bpiP mutant in C3H/HeN mice at day 14, 28 and 62 post-infection was significantly lower compared to control strains. No viable bpiP mutant was re-isolated from any tissues at day 62 post-infection although bpiP mutant was able to colonize immunodeficient SCID at day 28 post-infection. Acquisition or transmission of bpiP mutant by Ixodes scapularis larvae or nymphs respectively, from and to mice, was significantly lower compared to control strains. Further analysis of bpiP mutant revealed increased sensitivity to vancomycin, osmotic stress, lysosomal extracts, human antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin-LL37, complement-dependent killing in the presence of day 14 post-infection mouse serum and increased internalization of CFSC-labeled bpiP mutant by macrophages and dendritic cells compared to control strains. These studies demonstrate the importance of accessory protein/s involved in sustaining integrity of PG and cell envelope during different phases of Bb infection.
sounding the voice of tolerance: the orò secret society at the yorùbá borderlands

Based on ethnographic research in Southeastern Benin, this article considers how the Yoruba oris.a (divinity) Oro bolsters religious pluralism by manifesting only as sound. Synthesizing theory from...
Investigation of organo-chemical evolution.

Astrophysical observation and experimental results of organic synthesis bearing on abiogenic formation of biochemical compounds formed from simple precursor in aqueous or aqueous ammonia system
Mapping QTL for popping expansion volume in popcorn with simple sequence repeat markers.

Popping expansion volume is the most important quality trait in popcorn (Zea mays L.), but its genetics is not well understood. The objectives of this study were to map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) responsible for popping expansion volume in a popcorn × dent corn cross, and to compare the predicted efficiencies of phenotypic selection, marker-based selection, and marker-assisted selection for popping expansion volume. Of 259 simple sequence repeat (SSR) primer pairs screened, 83 pairs were polymorphic between the H123 (dent corn) and AG19 (popcorn) parental inbreds. Popping test data were obtained for 160 S1 families developed from the [AG19(H123 × AG19)] BC1 population. The heritability (h2) for popping expansion volume on an S1 family mean basis was 0.73. The presence of the gametophyte factor Ga1s in popcorn complicates the analysis of popcorn × dent corn crosses. But, from a practical perspective, the linkage between a favorable QTL allele and Ga1s in popcorn will lead to selection for the favorable QTL allele. Four QTLs, on chromosomes 1S, 3S, 5S and 5L, jointly explained 45% of the phenotypic variation. Marker-based selection for popping expansion volume would require less time and work than phenotypic selection. But due to the high h2 of popping expansion volume, marker-based selection was predicted to be only 92% as efficient as phenotypic selection. Marker-assisted selection, which comprises index selection on phenotypic and marker scores, was predicted to be 106% as efficient as phenotypic selection. Overall, our results suggest that phenotypic selection will remain the preferred method for selection in popcorn × dent corn crosses.
Testing damping formalisms with microwave permeability

In this paper, we report experimental evidence that this form of the dissipation requires additional damping mechanisms in order to explain well-known phenomena, based upon the observed difference between the peak /spl omega//sub p/ and zero-crossing /spl omega//sub 0/ frequencies of magnetic permeability data.
Multipoint LAN conferencing

The author outlines research done on a prototype desktop conferencing system (the Max project), the problems encountered, and likely solutions for some of these problems. This working prototype of a desktop video conference uses Intel Indeo Video (software playback) and inexpensive PC audio hardware without hardware audio compression. Standard Intel486 microprocessor-based PCs are used both as workstations and as the conference bridge. The project initially focused on point-to-point and broadcast conference modes. Modules were developed to support data, audio, and video conferencing and to allow participation by nodes without video capture ability. This experiment ran across a dedicated Ethernet LAN (local area network). The Max project demonstrated that desktop video conferencing was indeed feasible for low-cost PC platforms. >
Dealing With China in the Coming Years

How should we deal with China in the coming years? Do we oppose China, or can we coax it into the so-called international community? Simply put, we should stand up for freedom. The United States represents a beacon of hope to a new generation of Chinese who live in a Leninist regime supervising a semi-capitalist society—an arrangement that so far has never lasted for a sustained period. If we are going to deal with China properly in the coming years, we have to confront this contradiction.
On Optimal Filtering and Detection of Echoes in Laser-Based Aerial Bathymetric Surveying

There has been a continuous interest in measuring the ocean's water depth using an airborne laser bathymetric sensor which emits pulses of infra-red and blue-green light towards the ocean surface. The echo-pulses from the surface and the sea bottom are used in order to calculate the depth of the ocean. We are interested in assessing the merits of using matched filtering for pulse detection and depth estimation algorithms. In this paper, we derive a filter matched to the expected shape of the ocean bottom return, which maximizes the signal-to-noise ratio for detection in additive white noise. The shape of the ocean bottom echo-pulses is based on a two dimensional analytical model of the light transmission characteristics of the water medium, where the effects of light propagation are represented geometrically by a cone of propagation. The performance of the matched filter is evaluated in terms of the Receiver Operating Characteristics and is compared with a sub-optimal filter which neglects the attenuation and scattering effects in the water medium. This comparison gives a figure of merit as to the improvement one can achieve using the matched filter, as a function of the ocean bottom's depth.
Sensitivity of estuarine turbidity maximum to settling velocity, tidal mixing, and sediment supply

Estuarine turbidity maximum, numerical modeling, settling velocity, stratification The spatial and temporal distribution of suspended material in an Estuarine Turbidity Maxima (ETM) is primarily controlled by particle settling velocity, tidal mixing, shear-stress thresholds for resuspension, and sediment supply. We vary these parameters in numerical experiments of an idealized two-dimensional (x-z) estuary to demonstrate their affects on the development and retention of particles in an ETM. Parameters varied are the settling velocity (0.01, 0.1, and 0.5 mm/s), tidal amplitude (0.4 m 12 hour tide and 0.3 to 0.6 m 14 day spring neap cycle), and sediment availability (spatial supply limited or unlimited; and temporal supply as a riverine pulse during spring vs. neap tide). Results identify that particles with a low settling velocity are advected out of the estuary and particles with a high settling velocity provide little material transport to an ETM. Particles with an intermediate settling velocity develop an ETM with the greatest amount of material retained. For an unlimited supply of sediment the ETM and limit of salt intrusion co-vary during the spring neap cycle. The ETM migrates landward of the salt intrusion during spring tides and seaward during neap tides. For limited sediment supply the ETM does not respond as an erodible pool of sediment that advects landward and seaward with the salt front. The ETM is maintained seaward of the salt intrusion and controlled by the locus of sediment convergence in the bed. For temporal variability of sediment supplied from a riverine pulse, the ETM traps more sediment if the pulse encounters the salt intrusion at neap tides than during spring tides.
A Study of the Relative Costs of Network Security Protocols

While the benefits of using IPsec to solve a significant number of network security problems are well known and its adoption is gaining ground, very little is known about the communication overhead that it introduces. Quantifying this overhead will make users aware of the price of the added security, and will assist them in making well-informed IPsec deployment decisions. In this paper, we investigate the performance of IPsec using microand macro-benchmarks. Our tests explore how the various modes of operation and encryption algorithms affect its performance and the benefits of using cryptographic hardware to accelerate IPsec processing. Finally, we compare against other secure data transfer mechanisms, such as SSL, scp(1), and sftp(1).
Introduction to cryocrystallography

A general introduction to cryocrystallography is provided. The chapter covers crystal mounting, cooling of biocrystals, principles of cooling equipment and frost prevention. Operational considerations, such as dual-stream instruments, electrically heated nozzles, temperature calibration and transfer of crystals to difractometers, are also described.
Preterm infants who are prone to distress: differential effects of parenting on 36-month behavioral and cognitive outcomes.

Background: The differential susceptibility (DS) model suggests that temperamentally prone-to-distress infants may exhibit adverse outcomes in negative environments but optimal outcomes in positive environments.Thisstudyexploredtemperament,parenting,and36-monthcognitionandbehaviorinpreterm infants using the DS model. We hypothesized that temperamentally prone to distress preterm infants wouldexhibitmoreoptimalcognitionandfewerbehaviorproblemswhenearlyparentingwaspositive;and less optimal cognition and more behavior problems when early parenting was less positive. Methods: Participants included 109 preterm infants (gestation <37 weeks) and their mothers. We assessed neonatal risk and basal vagal tone in the neonatal intensive care unit; infant temperament and parenting interactions at 9 months post-term; and child behavior and cognitive skills at 36 months postterm. Hierarchical regression analyses tested study hypotheses. Results: Temperamentally proneto-distress infants exhibited more externalizing problems if they experienced more critical parenting at 9 months (b = ).20, p < 0.05) but fewer externalizing problems with more positive parenting. Similarly, variations in maternal positive affect (b = .25, p < .01) and intrusive behaviors (b = .23, p < .05) at 9 months predicted 36-month cognition at high but not at low levels of infant temperamental distress. Higher basal vagal tone predicted fewer externalizing problems (b = ).19, p < .05). Conclusions: Early parentingbehaviorsrelate tolaterbehavioranddevelopment inpreterminfants whoaretemperamentally prone to distress, and neonatal basal vagal tone predicts subsequent externalizing behaviors. These findings suggest that both biological reactivity and quality of caregiving are important predictors for later outcomes in preterm infants and may be considered as foci for developmental surveillance and interventions. Keywords: Behavior, IQ, vagal tone, parenting, preterm, temperament.
Complexity of Holocene Climate as Reconstructed from a Greenland Ice Core

Glaciochemical time series developed from Summit, Greenland, indicate that the chemical composition of the atmosphere was dynamic during the Holocene epoch. Concentrations of sea salt and terrestrial dusts increased in Summit snow during the periods 0 to 600, 2400 to 3100, 5000 to 6100, 7800 to 8800, and more than 11,300 years ago. The most recent increase, and also the most abrupt, coincides with the Little Ice Age. These changes imply that either the north polar vortex expanded or the meridional air flow intensified during these periods, and that temperatures in the mid to high northern latitudes were potentially the coldest since the Younger Dryas event.
Automated centerline tracking of the human colon

Early detection of colorectal polyps can improve morbidity and mortality due to cancer of the colon. The colon centerline can be used to expedite examination of the endoluminal surface for colorectal polyps. An automated technique has been developed that calculates the colon centerline from rectum to cecum from helical computed tomography slices of fully insufflated colons. Volume growing is initiated by indicating a seed point in the rectum, air voxels are grown and tagged with growth step numbers. The centers of mass of grown voxels with similar growth step numbers are used as a `forward' centerline. This procedure is repeated by growing from the cecum to the rectum to generate a `backward centerline'. The forward and backward centerlines are averaged to produce the calculated centerline. The technique was evaluated on a clinical colon case by comparing the calculated centerline with points indicated by 2 radiologists. Root mean square differences between the computed and indicated points were small (4 - 5 mm) and comparable to inter-observer differences. Results indicate that with this technique the centerline of the colon can be accurately and quickly calculated.
Temporal control of the cell cycle in Caulobacter crescentus: Roles of DNA chain elongation and completion

The functional relationships between cell cycle steps in Caulobacter crescentus have been examined by reciprocal shift experiments ( Hereford & Hartwell, 1974 ; Jarvick & Botstein, 1973 ) using temperature-sensitive mutations ( Osley & Newton, 1977 ) and drugs that reversibly block specific cell cycle steps. Hydroxyurea was used to inhibit DNA chain elongation (DNA e ) and penicillin was used to block the initiation of cell division (DIV i ; Terrana & Newton 1976 ). These experiments show that the cell cycle of Caulobacter can be organized into at least two dependent pathways. One of these pathways mediates the sequence of DNA events, DNA i (initiation of chain elongation)→DNA e →DNA c (completion of chain elongation), and the other pathway mediates the sequence of division events, DIV i →DIV p (progressive pinching at the division site)→CS (cell separation). Shift experiments in synchronous cultures showed that the initiation and completion of the cell division pathways require two successive stages of the DNA synthetic pathway: DIV i steps are dependent on DNA e and CS steps are dependent on DNA c . These and earlier results suggest that chromosome replication may act as a cell cycle “clock” to time events in the cell division pathway and to control the periodic expression of genes required for formation of the flagellum ( Osley et al. , 1977 ) and other developmental structures.
Hb Memphis [HBA2: c.70G>C (or HBA1)] in a Turkish Child: A Case Report and Comparison to Hb Q-Thailand (HBA1: c.223G>C)

AbstractHb Memphis [α23(B4)Glu→Gln; HBA2: c.70G > C (or HBA1)] is a stable hemoglobin (Hb) variant caused by a substitution of glutamine for glutamic acid at residue 23 of the α2- or α1-globin chain. Heterozygous Hb Memphis has no known clinical or hematological effect, and all prior reports have resulted from observations in persons of African descent with sickle cell disease and an unusually mild clinical course. Family studies suggest that Hb Memphis may modulate sickling. Only brief characterizations of Hb Memphis trait in the absence of Hb S are present in the current literature. We report isolated Hb Memphis trait in Turkish individuals in whom the initial laboratory incorrectly identified the α variant as Q-Thailand [α74(EF3)Asp→His; HBA1: c.223G > C]. In one case, a heterozygous −3.7 kb α gene deletion was also present, which increased the variant Hb level to a percentage similar to that of the more common Hb Q-Thailand, which may have led to the misidentification. Herein, we discuss the character...
Light-dark conformational states in bacteriorhodopsin

Summary Dark adapted or illuminated preparations of purple membrane fragments from Halobacterium halobium were treated with bifunctional crosslinking reagents. Glutaraldehyde (7.5 A length) and dimethyl adipimidate (8.5 A length) showed marked differences in their affect on proton pump activity when treated in the dark and under illumination, respectively; but there was no significant difference in activity after light-dark treatment in the case of dimethyl suberimidate (11.5 A length). Net proton pump activity was also found to increase after imidoester treatment. The changes in proton pump activity seemed to have no direct correlation with the loss of free amino groups, but tryptophanyl residues seem involved. It is concluded that bacteriorhodopsin can exist in two chemically distinguishable conformational states in the dark and light, respectively.
Real-time social interaction analysis

This demonstration presents a social interaction analysis system designed to operate in real-time and under real environment conditions. A webcam is used to capture videos of a group of people interacting in an unconstrained environment. Locations of multiple people and their head poses are extracted from the videos. Direct pairwise interactions are detected based on the relative distance and head orientation using a probabilistic model. Communicative behavior analysis is carried out by grouping people based on their interaction patterns, i.e. frequency and duration, among the social group.
Coordinate copper- and oxygen-responsive Cyc6 and Cpx1 expression in Chlamydomonas is mediated by the same element.

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii activates the transcription of the Cyc6 and the Cpx1genes (encoding cytochrome c6 and coprogen oxidase) in response to copper deficiency. Mutational analysis of promoter regions of the Cyc6 and Cpx1 genes revealed a four nucleotide sequence, GTAC, which was absolutely essential for copper responsiveness. The Cyc6 promoter contains two copper response elements, each with a functionally important GTAC sequence, whereas the Cpx1 promoter contains only one. This may contribute to the stronger and more tightly regulated expression of the Cyc6 gene. Mutation or deletion of sequences flanking the GTACs implicates additional nucleotides contributing to copper-responsive expression, but none are absolutely essential. Metal ion selectivity of Cpx1 expression is identical to that described previously for Cyc6 and is restricted to the copper deficiency-induced Cpx1transcript. The Cyc6 and Cpx1 genes are also induced by oxygen deficiency. Reporter gene constructs indicate that the induction occurs at the level of transcription and requires the same GTAC sequence that is critical for copper responsiveness. We suggest that components of the copper-responsive signal transduction pathway are used for some of the changes in gene expression in hypoxic cells.
Cost effectiveness of guanfacine extended-release versus atomoxetine for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: application of a matching-adjusted indirect comparison.

Published online: 29 March 2013© Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2013In the November 1, 2012 issue of the Applied Health Economics and Health Policy journal, Erder et al. [1] discussed the cost effectiveness of guanfacine extended- release (GXR) versus atomoxetine (ATX) for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder using a match- ing-adjusted indirect comparison. We would like to alert you that, after careful review of this article, we noticed a couple of data inaccuracies in the reporting of publicly available ATX data that met the inclusion criteria for trial selection for the indirect comparison.The data that appear to have been reported inaccurately in the Erder et al. [1] article are listed under the ATX column in Table III-'Baseline characteristics before and after matching' (p. 390). Specifically, the mean baseline values for ADHD-RS inattention subscale (16.9) and ADHD-RS hyperactivity/impulsivity subscale (22.2) appear to have been erroneously transposed from the cor- rect original values in the publicly available ATX data. The ATX data were originally presented under the 1.2 mg/kg/ day column in Table 2-'Baseline Symptom Severity' in the article by Michelson et al. [2]. Specifically, the mean baseline value for ADHD-RS inattentive subscale was listed as 22.2 while the mean baseline value for the ADHD- RS hyperactive/impulsive subscale was listed as 16.9. Thus, these correct values appear to have been switched in the article by Erder et al. [1].Importantly, these data inaccuracies may have led to erroneous post-match GXR subpopulations which likely produced results and conclusions that, at a minimum, would be unreliable. Accordingly, we respectfully would like to ask the journal and authors to comment on these inaccuracies and their effects on the research results and conclusions. Should these inaccuracies be confirmed by the journal or authors, we would kindly ask that a revised analysis be conducted and/or that a correction/erratum be published in accordance with ICMJE requirements.References1. Erder MH, Xie J, Signorovitch JE, Chen KS, Hodgkins P, Lu M, Wu EQ, Sikirica V. Cost effectiveness of guanfacine extended- release versus atomoxetine for the treatment of attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder: application of a matching-adjusted indirect comparison. Appl Health Econ Health Policy. 2012;10(6):381-95.2. Michelson D, Faries D, Wernicke J, Kelsey D, Atomoxetine ADHD Study Group, et al. Atomoxetine in the treatment of children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity dis- order: a randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-response study. Pediatrics. 2001;108(5):E83.Authors' Reply to Alatorre et al.: "Cost Effectiveness of Guanfacine Extended-Release Versus Atomoxetine for the Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Application of a Matching-Adjusted Indirect Comparison"M. Haim Erder * Jipan Xie * James E. Signorovitch *Kristina S. …
The role of hydrogen-bonding interactions in acidic sugar reaction pathways

Abstract Previously, theoretical multiple sugar (β- d -xylose and β- d -glucose) reaction pathways were discovered that depended on the initial protonation site on the sugar molecules using Car–Parrinello-based molecular dynamics (CPMD) simulations [Qian, X. H.; Nimlos, M. R.; Davis, M.; Johnson, D. K.; Himmel, M. E. Carbohydr. Res. 2005 , 340 , 2319–2327]. In addition, simulation results showed that water molecules could participate in the sugar reactions, thus altering the reaction pathways. In the present study, the temperature and water density effects on the sugar degradation pathways were investigated with CPMD. We found that changes in both temperature and water density could profoundly affect the mechanisms and pathways. We attributed these effects to both the strength of hydrogen bonding and proton affinity of water.
A computational study of surface diffusion of C60 on pentacene

Abstract The morphology of the C 60 /pentacene heterojunction is of interest for organic photovoltaic applications, yet is not well characterized. With that in mind, all-atom molecular dynamics simulation techniques were used to elucidate the diffusional behavior of small numbers of C 60 molecules on the surface of crystalline pentacene as a probe of the molecular-level interactions between C 60 and pentacene. The ultimate molecular probe of the pentacene surface, a single C 60 admolecule, exhibited an anisotropic diffusion pattern that lingered in energetically preferred sites in the [ 1 1 ¯ 0 ] direction, intercepting the (0, 1/2, 0) point in the unit cell. An Arrhenian analysis of this diffusion data gave estimates for the prefactor, D 0 , and energy barrier, E a , of 2 × 10 −3 cm 2 /s and 0.1 eV, respectively. Surface diffusion of one C 60 molecule on pentacene is significantly more rapid (by about 1–2 orders of magnitude) than if even one additional C 60 admolecule is present, implying that the C 60 –C 60 cohesion interaction is stronger than the C 60 –pentacene adhesion interaction. Simulations with up to four C 60 molecules, the practical limit of an all-atom approach, reinforced the suggestion that C 60 likes to dewet a pentacene surface and will show a preference for forming small 3D nuclei.
Comparative Efficacy of Halcinonide and Fluocinonide Creams in Psoriasis and Eczematous Dermatoses

The clinical efficacy of halcinonide and fluocinonide creams was compared in the treatment of 392 patients with corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses, including psoriasis, and various eczematous dermatoses such as atopic dermatitis, eczematous dermatitis, and neurodermatitis. The severity of the condition treated was moderate or severe in most of the patients. Usually, the creams were applied three times daily for two to three weeks. In psoriasis, halcinonide was superior to fluocinonide (P less than 0.05). There was no significant difference between halcinonide and fluocinonide in the treatment of the eczematous dermatoses. Both creams were well tolerated, each being associated with local side effects (such as burning sensation, dryness, erythema, and pruritus) in 4.9 per cent of patients.
Streptokinase for inferior myocardial infarction.

To the editors: I am concerned that the Midgette and colleagues' meta-analysis (1) of the effect of intravenous streptokinase on mortality due to acute inferior myocardial infarction may be misinte...
Arachidonic acid metabolic pathway of the rabbit placenta

Abstract Placenta microsomes prepared from animals late in gestation (29 days) efficiently metabolize arachidonic acid into PGE 2 , PGF 2α , PGD 2 , PGD 2 , TxA 2 and little or no prostacyclin. In contrast to the late gestation placenta, the early (17 day) placental microsomes synthesize primarily PGE 2 . The cytosolic (100, 000 × g supernatant) fraction from early or late gestation placentae converted arachidonic acid, with a calcium dependent enzyme, into non-polar metabolites whose synthesis was inhibited by ETYA but not indomethacin. These metabolites were purified by HPLC and GC-MS analysis indicated the presence of 12-hydroxy-, 15-hydroxy-, and 11-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid. The mitochondrial (8,000 × g pellet) produced PGE 2 ; PGF 2α ; 12-. 11-, 15-HETE; the C-17 fragment HHT; and the unusual cyclooxygenase metabolite 15-keto-PGE 2 . These biologically active metabolites may play a vital role in the reproductive function of the placenta.
Consumer attitudes, knowledge, and consumption of organic yogurt

The segment of organic products occupies an increasingly important place in dairy assortments. The European Union (EU) introduced a new EU organic logo in 2010 with the aim of harmonizing its organic sector and boosting consumer trust in organic food. This study focuses on organic yogurt and investigates consumer awareness and knowledge of the new EU logo. Consumers evaluate organic yogurt as superior compared with conventional yogurt on healthiness, environmental friendliness, quality, and safety. More frequent buyers of organic yogurt have a stronger belief that organic yogurt is superior. The willingness-to-pay for organic yogurt ranged from a premium of 15% for nonbuyers to 40% for habitual buyers, indicating the market potential for this product. A structural equations model reveals the positive association between knowledge, attitudes, and the frequency of purchasing and consuming organic yogurt. Nevertheless, consumer awareness of the EU organic logo remains rather low, which suggests a need for more effective information campaigns and marketing actions.
Understanding, Identification, and Assessment A Psychosociocultural Perspective, Part 1

The clinical implications of research with battered women and their families are discussed using the holistic framework of nursing and anthropology. Moving beyond superficial answers to "Why do battered women stay?," barriers to leaving that stem from the sociocultural roots of violence are examined. Understanding these obstacles and the characteristics of violent men is fundamental to sensitive interaction with abused women who frequently enter and leave health care systems with no direct attention given to their primary problem of abuse. Assessment techniques are suggested, and triage and comprehensive assessment protocols are presented to aid nurse practitioners and nurses in their response to this urgent public health problem. Language: en
The Duke Abdominal Assessment Scale: initial experience.

Plain abdominal radiographs are the current standard imaging modality of choice in the evaluation of patients with clinically suspected necrotizing enterocolitis. The time interval between radiographic exams varies with the severity of disease and may range from every 6 h to every 24 h. Radiographs are often also obtained at any point of acute clinical deterioration. Evaluation of the abdominal radiographic series is critical as the findings may alter patient management and can be an indication for surgical intervention. For these reasons, it is essential that the radiographic findings are communicated to the referring neonatologist in a clear and consistent manner. Inherent variability and lack of consistency in radiology reporting makes it difficult for the referring clinician to incorporate radiographic reports into his/her treatment algorithm. Assigning abdominal radiographic findings in necrotizing enterocolitis to a numerical scale that increases as the disease progresses provides objective terminol...
Modelling Resource Allocation in a Decentralized Organization with an AI‐Based, Goal‐Directive Model*

Modelling the resource allocation decision process in a decentralized organization using mathematical programming decomposition approaches has proven intractable for all but the smallest of problems. In this paper three artificial intelligence (AI) techniques are integrated to model the resource allocation decision process, and the solution for a three-level decentralized organization is illustrated. The techniques are (1) the filtered beam search, which selects a list of potential projects at the subordinate level, (2) the world model, which describes the ordinate and superordinate's worlds and their decision-making processes, and (3) the blackboard model, which allows for global, but selective, storage of information. Benefits of the new approach include: several different mechanisms of managerial control may be modelled, the true information flow in an organization is more closely mirrored, and problems of a more realistic size are now viable. There are three primary ways in which the new model could be useful to management: The desirability and effects of different organizational structures can be modeled, the efficacy of various coordination mechanisms along the organizational structure can be examined, and a subset of projects from a wider list of possibilities can be selected. Also, an example is given showing how the model may be extended to scenarios with asymetric information and divergence of preferences, whereby subordinates have different objectives than their managers and where there is no way for managers to verify the truthfulness of their subordinates' responses.
Preweanling handling influences open-field behavior, but not negative contrast or sucrose neophobia

Handling of preweanlings (Days 2–15) had substantial effects on the open-field behavior of rats when tested as adults. In general, handled rats reared more, ambulated more, and defecated less than nonhandled rats. However, the handling manipulation had no effect on the degree of negative contrast that occurred when rats were shifted from 32% to 4% sucrose. Experiments 2 and 3 showed that preweaning handling did not influence sucrose neophobia in two different test situations. These data, in conjunction with those of other studies, suggest that preweaning handling may have powerful but limited effects on adult behavior, and that these effects are probably not best characterized in terms of global concepts such as emotionality.
Different time constants for optokinetic and vestibular nystagmus with a single velocity-storage element.

Models have been proposed for the combined optokinetic system and vestibulo-ocular reflex that share a single, common, velocity-storage element that generates both optokinetic after-nystagmus and prolongs post-rotary nystagmus. It has been thought by many that such a model requires the time course of these two types of nystagmus to be similar. The demonstration that vestibular or optokinetic habituation can selectively and significantly reduce the duration of each type of nystagmus without affecting that of the other has been taken to imply that the concept of shared velocity storage is incorrect. This need not be the case because post-rotatory nystagmus is described by two time constants, not one. Changes in the model's parameters can create time courses of this nystagmus that, when fit by single exponentials, have apparent time constants quite different from that of optokinetic after-nystagmus. Consequently, a common velocity-storage mechanism is still a tenable hypothesis for optokinetic and vestibular eye movements.
Risk reduction by filtered venting in PWR large dry-containments

Abstract The potential risk reduction associated with a Filtered-Vented Containment System is evaluated. A low-volume venting strategy has been considered and data referring to the Zion power plant, along with the results of the Zion Probabilistic Safety Study, have been used. An estimate of the reduction factor is first made for a single core melt accident sequence whose containment failure mode is late overpressure. The result, interpreted as a reduction factor applicable to the release category associated with containment late overpressure is then used for the estimation of the overall risk reduction factor. In particular, the case of internal and external risk for the Zion power plant are considered. Because the contribution from seismic events dominates the overall risk, the importance of different assumptions for seismic fragility is also assessed. Finally an uncertainty analysis of the risk reduction factor for a single accident sequence is performed. An estimate is also obtained on the level of confidence with which certain required values of risk reduction can be achieved.
Exploring the relationship between employment-based social capital, job stress, burnout, and intent to leave among child protection workers: An age-based path analysis model

Abstract Research suggests that age and organizational factors are consistently linked with job stress, burnout, and intent to leave among child protection workers. However, no study has contextualized how age matters with regards to these adverse employee outcomes. We conducted a theory driven path analysis that identifies sources of employment-based social capital, job stress, burnout, and intent to leave among two age groups. We used a statewide purposive sample of 209 respondents from a public child welfare organization in a New England state in the United States. Results suggest that the paths to job stress, burnout and intent to leave differed by age group. Social capital dimensions were more influential in safeguarding against job stress for older workers compared to younger workers. Our results justify creating workplace interventions for younger workers that target areas of the organization where relational support could enhance the quality of social interactions within the organization. Organizations may need to establish intervention efforts aimed at younger workers by creating different structures of support that can assist them to better deal with the pressures and demands of child protection work.
The isolation of estrone from apple seeds

Abstract The presence of estrone in apple seeds was demonstrated by TLC, gas chromatography, and the formation of the acetate derivative. The analyses per 100 g of Red Delicious ( Malus sylvestris ) apple seeds revealed an average of 13·0 μg of estrone, and for MacIntosh ( Malus sylvestris ) seeds, 10·1 μg of estrone.
A novel 105-kDa lamina lucida autoantigen: association with bullous pemphigoid.

Abstract Several cases have been reported of patients with immunemediated subepidermal blistering disorders whose autoantibodies react to antigens present on both the dermal and epidermal side of 1 M NaCl-split skin. In this report, we identify, localize, and characterize the basement membrane zone antigen corresponding to the dermal staining in a patient whose serum stains both the dermal and epidermal side of 1 M NaCl-split skin. This patient's serum contains autoantibodies directed against a 105-kilodalton(kDa) dermal antigen and the 230-kDa epidermal (bullous permphigoid) antigen. This novel 105-kDa protein was previously identified as the sole antigen in another patient with a unique bullous disease whose autoantibodies were directed against only the dermal side of 1 M NaCl-split skin. This 105-kDa antigen was identical by one- and two-dimensional immunoblot analysis in these two patients. By immunoblot analysis, autoantibodies from our patient labeled a 105-kDa protein within various extracts of human skin basement membrane. Immunoblot analyses using epitope-selected autoantibodies directed against the 105-kDa protein demonstrated that this antigen is independent and distinct from other known basement membrane antigens. The 105-kDa antigen is an extracellular matrix component of the basement membrane, which is synthesized and secreted by both keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Identical electrophoretic migration of cellular and secreted forms of the protein suggested there is no major post-translational modification of the protein. Immunomapping of normal human skin fractured through the dermal-epidermal junction by incubation in 1 M NaCl or by suction blistering demonstrated that the location of the 105-kDa antigen within the basement membrane zone is between the bullous pemphigoid antigens and two other lamina lucida components, laminin and nicein. These data demonstrate clearly that a subepidermal autoimmune bullous disease may have autoantibodies directed against two distinct components of the dermal-epidermal junction.
Loving Across Racial Divides

Sociologist Amy C. Steinbugler examines the everyday lives of lesbian, gay, and heterosexual black/white couples. She shows that even as overt racial prejudice declines, racism continues to shape i...
Sustainable tourism research: an analysis of papers published in the Journal of Sustainable Tourism

This paper reviews a content analysis of papers published in the Journal of Sustainable Tourism, the only journal exclusively devoted to sustainable tourism research over the past 15 years (1993–2007). Based on a detailed examination of the contents, a database was developed which consists of information about (1) volume/number/year; (2) study areas; (3) forms of tourism; (4) subject themes; (5) research perspectives; (6) concept and measurement and (7) methodology. A series of trends describing the growth of sustainable tourism research has been identified. The findings present the journal's contribution to theoretical debates, methodological sophistication and practical implications in sustainable tourism development. Future directions for sustainable tourism research are also discussed.
Promoting Task Accuracy and Independence in Students with Autism Across Educational Setting Through the Use of Individual Work Systems.

Strategies that promote the independent demonstration of skills across educational settings are critical for improving the accessibility of general education settings for students with ASD. This research assessed the impact of an individual work system on the accuracy of task completion and level of adult prompting across educational setting. Student accuracy and adult prompting were measured in both special and general education settings during academic work periods. Work systems, an element of structured teaching developed by Division TEACCH, are organized sets of visual information that inform a student about participation in work areas. A multiple-probe-across-participants design was used to evaluate the effects of the individual work systems. All participants demonstrated increased accuracy yet required less adult support across special and general education settings. Results were maintained when measured during a 1-month follow-up probe.
Customer Satisfaction in Home Building

To successfully compete in the long term, a company must be sure current customers are satisfied. Providing superior quality and keeping customers satisfied are rapidly becoming the ways companies differentiate themselves from competitors. This study examines empirically home builders' performance as measured by the degree of home buyers' satisfaction. Sixteen Florida-based home builders agreed to participate in the study and to allow contact with their recent home buyers. Nearly 300 of these home buyers provided valuable input to the study. A model was proposed, describing home-buyer satisfaction as a three-dimensional composite of satisfaction with house design, house quality, and service. All three dimensions were found to be significant predictors of overall home-buyer satisfaction. Service emerged as the most important component in shaping the overall satisfaction. However, service was the area in which home builders demonstrated the poorest performance. The study results suggest that service deserve...