cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Aggregation and Timing on Budgeting: An Experiment

ABSTRACT: We conduct an experiment to study the behavioral effect of aggregation and timing on budgetary reports. Subordinates submit budgets to superiors regarding two projects in a face-to-face setting. There are three treatments: (1) AGG, wherein subordinates privately observe each project’s cost and submit one budget regarding the aggregate cost of the two projects, (2) SEQ, wherein subordinates observe and submit individual budgets sequentially, so are uncertain about the second-project cost when they submit their first-project budget, and (3) DEL, wherein budgets are delayed, so that subordinates observe both costs before providing individual budgets. In all treatments superiors must approve the budget and subordinates can create more slack by submitting a larger budget. Based on image management, guilt alleviation, and preferences for honesty, we hypothesize that subordinates will (1) create more slack in AGG than in the other two treatments, (2) create more slack in DEL than in SEQ, and (3) decrea...
Interaction of genetic loci: the effect of linkage disequilibria on hardy-weinberg expectations

Interaction of genetic loci: the effect of linkage disequilibria on hardy-weinberg expectations
Natural Resource Management in the Third World: A Policy and Research Agenda

That proper stewardship of natural resources is of central importance to agricultural and economic development has become indisputable. This is especially true for developing countries where natural resource depletion is of immediate economic and social consequence. Poor countries are typically dependent on agrarian and pastoral activities and are thus often most vulnerable to the effects of environmental degradation. This vulnerability results in part from shortages of human and financial capital that severely limit countries' abilities to turn to other economic activities when the resource base can
Estrogen-Induced Activation of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expression, and Edema in the Uterus Are Mediated by the Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/Akt Pathway

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays an essential role in normal uterine physiology and function as well as endometrial cancer and other uterine disorders. Recently we showed that estrogen regulation of VEGF expression in the rat uterus involves rapid recruitment of both estrogen receptor (ER)-alpha and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1alpha to the VEGF promoter. Estrogen is known to stimulate both the MAPK and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathways, which have been linked to the activation of both of these transcription factors. Therefore, the involvement of these pathways in estrogen-induced VEGF expression was investigated. Inhibitors of the MAPK (U0126) or PI3K pathways (wortmannin or LY294002) were administered ip to immature female rats 1 h before 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) treatment. E(2) activation of both pathways occurred and was completely inhibited by the appropriate antagonist. Only PI3K inhibitors, however, blocked E(2) stimulation of VEGF mRNA expression and E(2)-induced uterine edema. In vivo chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis showed that this was associated with a failure of both HIF-1alpha and ERalpha to bind to the VEGF promoter. To determine whether inhibiting the PI3K pathway affected ERalpha induction of other estrogen target genes, the expression of creatine kinase B and progesterone receptor A/B was also examined. The expression of each was also inhibited by wortmannin, as was ERalpha binding to the creatine kinase B promoter. In conclusion, although estrogen activates both the MAPK and PI3K pathways in the rat uterus, activation of HIF-1alpha and ERalpha, and therefore regulation of VEGF gene expression is dependent only on the PI3K/Akt pathway. Furthermore, activation of the PI3K pathway appears to be a common requirement for the expression of estrogen-induced genes. These findings not only shed light on estrogen action in normal target tissues but also have important implications for cancer biology because excessive PI3K, HIF-1alpha, and VEGF activity are common in estrogen-dependent tumors.
Learning to teach elementary school science as argument

New views of proficiency in K-8 science that highlight the importance of engaging children in the discourses and practices of science have raised the stakes for elementary teachers and the teacher educators who prepare them. In this paper, a framework for teaching science as argument is presented. The framework is advanced as a means of addressing problems of practices faced by preservice teachers, creating coherence for the design of teacher education experiences, and serving as a tool for shaping a design-based research agenda. Findings of three research studies that examined preservice teachers' developing understandings and practices for teaching science as argument and the ways in which teacher education experiences mediated learning are synthesized. Across the studies, findings suggest that the framework serves as a powerful scaffold for preservice teachers' developing thinking and practice. More specifically, early attention to evidence and argument can leverage other important aspects of effective science teaching, such as attention to classroom discourse and the role of the teacher in monitoring and assessing children's thinking. In closing, a case is made for coherence among science learning opportunities, learning to teach science experiences, and field experiences. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed93:687–719, 2009
Abstract 3245: Multivitamins and cancer in the Physicians’ Health Study II: Expanded analyses and insights

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA The Physicians’ Health Study (PHS) II, the only clinical trial testing a daily multivitamin, recently reported a significant 8% reduction in the primary endpoint of total cancer. We conducted expanded post hoc analyses to test the effects of a common multivitamin (daily Centrum Silver) on the risk of site-specific cancer in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 14,641 U.S. male physicians initially aged ≥50 years, including 1,312 with cancer at randomization. Treatment and follow-up occurred from 1997 to 2011. Cancer endpoints were confirmed by an Endpoints Committee of physicians blinded to randomized treatment. PHS II maintained high rates of morbidity and mortality follow-up. Computing hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), we examined the effect of a daily multivitamin on cancers grouped by anatomic site (defined by ICD9 codes) and by previously unreported cancer sites. During a median follow-up of 11.2 years among men with mean age of 64.3 y at baseline, men taking a daily multivitamin had consistent, non-significant reductions in cancers of the digestive organs and peritoneum (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.67-1.00; P=.05) and respiratory and intrathoracic organs (HR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.60-1.09; P=.17) (Table). Men with a history of cancer had a significant reduction in genitourinary cancers (HR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.35-0.89; P=.01). For individual cancer sites, there were strong but nonsignificant reductions in brain, colon, esophageal, gallbladder, kidney, liver, myeloid myeloma, small intestine, stomach, and thyroid cancer, and nonsignificant increases in connective tissue, multiple myeloma, other lymphoid, and rectum cancer. These expanded trial data in middle-aged and older men indicate that daily multivitamin use may benefit digestive and respiratory cancers, and genitourinary cancer among men with a history of cancer. These results support the need to understand the mechanisms and long-term effects of daily multivitamin use. View this table: Citation Format: Howard D. Sesso, William G. Christen, Vadim Bubes, JoAnn E. Manson, Robert J. Glynn, Julie E. Buring, J. Michael Gaziano. Multivitamins and cancer in the Physicians’ Health Study II: Expanded analyses and insights. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 3245. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-3245
Lifetimes of some L-x-ray emitting levels in silicon, sulfur, and chlorine

Lifetimes of several L -x-ray emitting levels in neon-like, fluorine-like, and oxygen-like sulfur and chlorine and in lithium-like and beryllium-like silicon have been measured. While L x rays from these levels have been previously observed, no prior measurements of decay curves for these transitions have been reported. The lifetimes as inferred from the measured decay curves are compared to calculated lifetimes.
MINERALIZED ARTERIOSCLEROSIS IN A CAT

In radiographs of a domestic short haired cat of unknown age, mineralization was identified in the pulmonary parenchyma, peripheral pulmonary vessels, the aortic outflow tract, aortic valve, celiac artery, cranial mesenteric artery, and the internal and external iliac arteries. The diffuse arterial mineralization was characterized histopathologically as arteriosclerosis. This is the first report of mineralized arteriosclerosis in a cat with corresponding radiographic signs. The arteriosclerosis is thought to be due to systemic hypertension but a definitive cause for the profound mineralization was not found. Causes of soft tissue mineralization are reviewed.
Isabel, a Clinical Decision Support System

A clinical decision support system (CDSS) is an interactive tool designed to assist clinicians in making decisions, such as determining a diagnosis. The Isabel Database is a CDSS featuring a clinical checklist and topic-specific knowledge components. This column contains an overview of the database, provides searching tips, and places Isabel within the context of the CDSS field.
Influence of prostaglandin F autoantibodies on the estrous cycle of the guinea pig.

Adult female guinea pigs were actively immunized with prostaglandin F2α conjugated to bovine serum albumin (BSA). Control animals, immunized against BSA continued to cycle normally, while the animals immunized against prostaglandin F2α stopped cycling after one to three normal cycles. Laparotomy at 30 days after the last estrus revealed no recently formed corpora lutea. During the remaining 70 days of observation the antibody titer increased to 1:700, accompanied by increasing total serum estrogens (136 pg/ml at day 100) and a slow decline in circulating progesterone levels (0.6 ng/ml at day 100). The ovaries at day 100 contained degenerated corpora lutea and luteinized follicles. The suppression of the estrous cycle in the present experiments was interpreted as resulting from prolongation of luteal function as well as from inhibition of ovulation.
Detection of progressive myocardial tissue injury by ultrasonic integrated backscatter immediately after coronary reperfusion.

Myocardial reperfusion following ischemia may paradoxically cause additional injury, including microvascular damage and edema. These structural alterations augment tissue echogenicity, which is measurable by ultrasonic integrated backscatter (IB). We sought to characterize alterations in myocardial IB in an ischemic and reperfused region of the rat heart. Myocardial IB of the regions of interest in 12 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats was studied at baseline, during ischemia, and chronologically after coronary reopening, using an ultrasound frequency of 8 MHz. IB did not significantly change between baseline and ischemia. However, within 1 min of reperfusion, IB significantly increased and continued to increase until 10 min of reperfusion, when a plateau was reached. Areas of high echogenicity were comparable to infarcted areas on gross pathologic slices and had edema with extravasation of red blood cells. Myocardial reperfusion following ischemia significantly augments tissue echogenicity. A continuing increase of IB suggests a rapid progression of reperfusion injury.
Improved cross-section modeling methodology for coupled three-dimensional transient simulations

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to introduce a more accurate and sophisticated methodology for use in three-dimensional coupled neutronic/thermal hydraulic analysis. The approach described in this paper is an original method of modeling cross-section variations for off-nominal core conditions, which is becoming an important issue with the increased use of coupled three-dimensional neutronic/thermal hydraulic simulations. This proposed method improves the accuracy of the cross-section modeling for transient applications and it is called the adaptive high-order table lookup method (AHTLM). During nuclear power plant (NPP) transient and accident simulations AHTLM interpolates into multi-dimensional cross-sections tables, which form a box envelope bounding the expected range of change of both nominal and off-nominal NPP conditions. This paper further addresses the methodologies for the development of the cross-section libraries and issues that affect the proper formulation of accurate data. The automated generation procedure outlined in this paper gives the user the tools and the ability of generating accurate cross-sections that cover a large range of thermal hydraulic parameters. Further improvements and expansions for future applications are also discussed.
On Becoming a Leader by Warren Bennis. New York: Addison-Wesley; 1989, 266 pp., hardcover. (ISBN 0-201-08059-1)

(1990). On Becoming a Leader by Warren Bennis. New York: Addison-Wesley; 1989, 266 pp., hardcover. (ISBN 0-201-08059-1). The Educational Forum: Vol. 54, No. 4, pp. 413-416.
Molecular modeling of phase-inversion membranes: effect of additives in the coagulant

Abstract A major problem facing the development of phase-inversion membranes is macrovoid formation, which adversely affects mechanical properties of the final product. Our molecular modeling studies indicate that these macrovoids can be eliminated upon the addition to the aqueous coagulant of: (i) high amounts of polymer solvent, at the expense of a decrease in coagulation rate or (ii) high concentrations of a salt that is poorly miscible in the polymer solvent, with no associated decrease in coagulation rate.
The role of hepatic microsomal enzymes in the modulation of phencyclidine-induced toxicity

The LD50 of phencyclidine (PCP, 234 mumol/kg, i.p.) in male Swiss mice decreased by 62% in animals pretreated with 2-diethylamino-2,2-diphenylvalerate hydrochloride (SKF-525A, 40 mg/kg), and increased by 74% and 20% in animals pretreated with sodium phenobarbital (75 mg/kg), and 3-methylcholanthrene (70 mg/kg), respectively, No Significant change in the LD50 was observed with cysteine or diethylmaleate pretreatment. The treatment with PCP at 179 mumol/kg/day i.p. for 7 days resulted in body weight decrement in the first 2 days and gradual increment thereafter. The increase was only 33% of the control group. The food intake was also lower in the PCP treated group of animals. PCP withdrawal led to an increase in food intake as well as body weight at a normal rate. The ratio of liver weight to body weight was not significantly higher than that of control during the treatment period. The administration of PCP for 7 days did not alter the activities of liver function enzyme markers. However, within 12 h of the initial PCP treatment a 85% increase in activity of serum glutamicoxalacetic transaminase was observed. Later the enzyme activity reached close to normal levels. No liver lesions at the light microscopic level were observed. Treatment of mice for 4 days with PCP (179 mumol/kg) caused no significant change in pentobarbital sleeping time.
Heritability of shell pigmentation in the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas

Abstract The Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) is a species of considerable economic importance, with among the highest global production of any cultured aquatic animal species. In the interest of increasing the value of Pacific oysters sold as “singles” for the half-shell market, we explored the feasibility of modifying shell pigmentation through selective breeding by estimating both the broad- and narrow-sense heritability of total left-shell pigmentation in C. gigas. Twenty-six full-sib families derived from parents collected from a naturalized population in Dabob Bay, WA, were spawned in the hatchery and raised in an intertidal environment for 2 years. At harvest, we sampled shells from each family and quantified their total left-shell pigmentation using digital image analysis. We estimated broad-sense heritability based on full-sib intraclass correlations and narrow-sense heritability based on midparent-offspring regression as 0.91 ± 0.38 and 0.59 ±0.19, respectively. We further examined the distributions of pigmentation levels among individuals within full-sib families and found high within-family variation in total shell pigmentation that in the majority of families was normally and continuously distributed. However, offspring within two families segregated into phenotypically distinct “lighter” and “darker” shell groups in a 3:1 ratio (χ2, P > 0.766) supporting the hypothesis that a single major gene is segregating in these families with the “light” allele being dominant over the “dark” allele. We conclude that selective breeding acting on this high additive genetic variance should be effective in altering total shell pigmentation and that further work is needed to confirm the existence and mode of inheritance of a putative major gene affecting total shell pigmentation in C. gigas.
The development of coatings using combinatorial/high throughput methods: a review of the current status

Combinatorial chemistry is a relatively new experimental methodology developed by academics and researchers in the pharmaceutical industry to reduce the time and cost associated with drug development. Basically, combinatorial chemistry involves the rapid synthesis and evaluation of large numbers of compounds in parallel using robotics, rapid analytical instrumentation, and data management software. More recently, the principles of combinatorial chemistry have been applied to materials development, and interest in this area is increasing rapidly. This interest can be attributed to the potential for obtaining a major competitive advantage by implementing a combinatorial approach. This document provides an introduction to combinatorial materials science and provides a review of efforts aimed at developing combinatorial workflows for coating development. While the application of combinatorial methods to coating development is still in its infancy, full combinatorial workflows have been developed within a few different organizations.
Profiling podcast-based content distribution

Media distribution via podcasts is a relatively new phenomenon which follows a different paradigm compared to traditional modes of content delivery. Despite its rapidly increasing subscriber base, podcast distribution has not been measured or modeled adequately, if at all. As our contribution, we develop a measurement based profile of podcasters. This profile consists of a comprehensive and detailed analysis of interesting characteristics of podcast streams which could be used for analytical studies and simulations. We start by conducting extensive active measurements to characterize 875 popular podcast streams for over a month. The take away message from our study is that podcast traffic is significantly different from the other types of traffic such as Web traffic. For example, we find that podcast file sizes (between 2 and 35 MB) are not only significantly larger than Web files on the average, but they follow a different distribution (a bimodal Gaussian compared to a heavy tail Pareto distribution for Web files). Other interesting aspects of the podcast profile is the expected daily content download (per podcaster), in the range of 2 to 6 MB, and their content distribution patterns. We also find and quantify the heterogeneity in the intensity of content creation, since approximately 14% of podcasters contribute over 54% of files, amounting to about 30% of total byte-content.
Temperature-dependent scaled frequency: Improved accuracy of multisensor capacitance probes

The response of multisensor capacitance probes (MCPs) to water content depends on multiple soil properties including temperature. The goal of this study was to evaluate a new temperature-dependent scaled frequency algorithm to correct for the temperature effect on the performance of MCPs. Plastic columns with MCPs and thermocouples in the middle were filled with air, deionized water, or quartz sand at different water contents (0.0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08, 0.12 and 0.38 m 3 m -3 ) and placed in a water bath with temperature varying between 5 and 45°C. Scaled frequency (SF) readings in saturated sand (0.38 m 3 m -3 ) were negatively correlated with temperature. There were positive correlations observed, however, between isothermal SF readings and media temperature for air and unsaturated quartz sand. Temperature effects in the unsaturated sand decreased with increasing water content; observed SF for quartz sand at 0.0 and 0.12 m 3 m -3 water contents increased 58 and 4%, respectively, when temperature increased from 5 to 45°C. A hysteretic temperature effect was observed in all tested media. A new temperature-dependent SF calibration methodology that we developed mitigated the increase in apparent water content caused by the use of the isothermal SF calibration equation. Our experimental data indicate that quartz sand temperature effects on apparent volumetric water content measured with MCPs can be mitigated using this new temperature-dependent SF methodology.
The Botryoid Odontogenic Cyst: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature

The botryoid odontogenic cyst is a morphologic variant of developmental cysts of odontogenic epithelial residue, i.e., lateral periodontal cysts and gingival cysts. Such variants have distinctive clinical and histologic characteristics, including a lobular appearance in situ, multiple cystic spaces lined by thin, nonkeratinized epithelium with focal plaque-like thickenings and occasional glycogen-rich clear cells. Lateral periodontal cysts most likely arise from rests of Malassez, while gingival cysts certainly arise from rests of Serres. When cortical perforation occurs, the origin of the cyst may be determined on the basis of the pattern of bone resorption. The term botryoid odontogenic cyst should be reserved for those developmental cysts of odontogenic epithelial residue that have a grossly lobulated appearance in addition to characteristic histomorphologic features. Its use should be restricted to the gross and histopathologic description rather than as a modifier of the definitive diagnosis. A botryoid variant of a gingival cyst with cortical perforation is presented.
Oxidized low-density lipoprotein stimulates monocyte adhesion to glomerular endothelial cells

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein stimulates monocyte adhesion to glomerular endothelial cells. Background Abnormalities in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism have been implicated in the pathogenesis of glomerulosclerosis. Atherogenic lipoproteins [for example, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and oxidized LDL (ox-LDL)] have been shown to stimulate glomerular monocyte chemoattractants involved in monocyte infiltration. However, the role of LDL and ox-LDL in the early monocyte adhesion to glomerular endothelial cells (ECs) and associated intracellular signaling mechanisms are not clearly understood. Methods In this study, we examined the effect of LDL and ox-LDL on intracellular signaling mechanisms associated with monocyte adhesion to glomerular ECs and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression. Results Ox-LDL, but not LDL, stimulated EC ICAM-1 expression and monocyte adhesion. Ox-LDL elevated protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) activity, and the preincubation of ECs with specific PTK inhibitors blocked ox-LDL–induced ICAM-1 message and monocyte adhesion. Whereas experimental maneuvers that inhibit either protein kinase C activation (by PKC depletion or with inhibitors) or G i -protein–mediated pathways (pertussis toxin sensitive) had no effect on ox-LDL–induced monocyte adhesion and ICAM-1 expression. cAMP-elevating compounds did not induce ICAM-1 or monocyte adhesion. Conclusions The data indicate that ox-LDL, by stimulating monocyte adhesion to the glomerular endothelium, may regulate monocyte infiltration within the glomerulus, supporting an early pathobiological role for atherogenic lipoproteins in glomerular injury. The results suggest that the activation of specific PTK and associated signaling may, at least in part, play a critical role in ox-LDL–mediated endothelial–monocyte interaction-related events. The data suggest that the interventions aimed at modifying associated intracellular signaling events within the glomerulus may provide potential therapeutic modalities in monocyte/macrophage-mediated glomerular disease.
Kink detachment fold in the southwest Montana fold and thrust belt

The Hossfeldt anticline in the southwest Montana thrust belt is characterized by a kink geometry and probably overlies a thrust detachment at depth. The mesofabric distribution in the limbs documents that the eastern overturned limb has undergone most of the rotation and internal deformation during folding, leaving the gently dipping western limb virtually undeformed. The anticline exhibits unique mesofabrics in its hinge region that require a pinned anticlinal hinge during its evolution. The half-wavelength of the Hossfeldt anticline-Eustis syncline pair coincides with that predicted from buckling theory, if one considers the massive carbonates of the Paleozoic section as a competent beam. Although the geometry and mesofabric distribution of the Hossfeldt anticline satisfy the geometric requirements of either a fault-propagation fold or a detachment kink fold, the buckling wavelength strongly suggests that its origin was as a kink-buckle fold above a flat detachment rather than as a fault-propagation fold above a thrust ramp.
Metamerism, morphogenesis, and the expression of carabelli and other dental traits in humans

The patterning cascade model of tooth morphogenesis has emerged as a useful tool in explaining how tooth shape develops and how tooth evolution may occur. Enamel knots, specialized areas of dental epithelium where cusps initiate, act as signaling centers that direct the growth of surrounding tissues. For a new cusp to form, an enamel knot must form beyond the inhibition fields of other enamel knots. The model predicts that the number and size of cusps depends on the spacing between enamel knots, reflected in the spacing between cusps. Recently, work by our group demonstrated that the model predicted Carabelli trait expression in human first molars. Here we test whether differences in Carabelli trait expression along the molar row can also be predicted by the model. Crown areas and intercusp distances were measured from dental casts of 316 individuals with a digital microscope. Although absolute cusp spacing is similar in first and second molars, the smaller size and more triangular shape of second molars results in larger cusp spacing relative to size and, likely, less opportunity for the Carabelli trait to form. The presence and size of the hypocone (HY) and a range of small accessory cusps in a larger sample of 340 individuals were also found to covary with the Carabelli trait in a complex way. The results of this study lend further support to the view that the dentition develops, varies, and evolves as a single functional complex.
The optimal temporal window for CT of the liver using a time-density analysis: implications for helical (spiral) CT.

Objective Scanning protocols for conventional CT of the liver have been proposed. Current availability of helical CT with a four- to sixfold decrease in scan time requires significant adjustments in these protocols. The present study assesses the implications of time-density curves on the performance of helical liver CT. Materials and methods Twenty patients without liver lesions were studied for time-density analysis of the aorta, inferior vena cava (ICV), portal vein, and liver. Scans were performed at the level of the portal vein at baseline and every 15 s for 3 min following uniphasic administration of 150 ml (300 mg I/ml) nonionic contrast agent. Regions of interest were used to measure three areas in each anatomic structure over time. Median and mean peak enhancement times were calculated for all 20 patients. Cubic spline interpretation was employed to determine the point of equilibrium. Results Results demonstrated the following average maximum enhancement values and times for peak enhancement: aorta: 227 HU (75 s); liver: 123 HU (105 s); portal vein: 187 HU (90 s); IVC: 142 HU (90 s). Hepatic enhancement achieved 67 HU over baseline. Peak portal enhancement occurred 15 s prior to liver enhancement (p = 0.001). Aortic and hepatic curves became parallel (onset of equilibrium) at a median time of 120 s. Conclusion Helical scanning requires a longer delay (70-80 s) than used for conventional CT. Upon application of these principles, scan initiation occurs higher on the liver enhancement curve, improving liver enhancement without impinging on equilibrium.
Instrument to measure psychological contract violation in pharmacy students.

Objectives. To adapt and evaluate an instrument that measures perceived psychological contract violations in pharmacy students by schools and colleges of pharmacy. Design. A psychological contract violations measure was developed from existing literature and the 1997 ACPE Guidelines and pilot-tested with second-year pharmacy students at 2 schools of pharmacy. A revised measure then was administered to second-year pharmacy students at 6 schools of pharmacy. Using a 5-point Likert-type scale, participants were asked to indicate the level of obligations they received compared to what was promised by the school of pharmacy. Results. Exploratory factor analysis on the psychological contract violations measure was conducted using principal components analysis resulting in 7 factors, which led to a revised measure with 26 items. Using a sample of 339 students, the proposed 7-factor measurement model was tested using confirmatory factor analysis. In general, the results supported the hypothesized model. The final...
Two-dimensional system performance analysis using PC-based scientific spreadsheet

Abstract In continuation of the authors previous work, this paper presents a complete two-dimensional model for a serial scanFLIR sensor. This model, developed using a commercially available scientific spreadsheet (i.e., MathCAD ver. 4.0), and takinginto account of all the basic parameters of the sensor as well as the 4-bar target, can predict how any 4-bar target would appearon a display. 1. Introduction Typically, a serial scan Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) sensor can be described by the functional block diagramshown in Figure 1 . Also,the final image for display from a FUR sensor, can be described as the convolution of the sensor's sub-systems responses and the input 4-bar target, and the addition of the detector noise (Fig. 2). In this model, the two dimensional(2-D) sub-system responses being considered are:'the imaging optics'horizontal and vertical scanner jitters'detector temporal and spatial responses'electronics circuitry response (i.e., anti-aliasing filter & boost),and the detector noise is determined by its temporal noise power spectrum (NPS) and its detectivity (D*).
Evaluation of the factors determining HBT high-frequency performance by direct analysis of S-parameter data

A novel parameter extraction formalism for the evaluation of heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) device physics is presented. The technique uses analytically derived expressions for direct calculation of the HBT T-model equivalent circuit element values in terms of the measured S-parameters. All elements are directly calculated with the exception of the emitter leg of the T-model. This approach avoids errors due to uncertainty in fitting to large, overdetermined equivalent circuits, and does not require the use of test structures and extra measurement steps to evaluate parasitics. Detailed bias-dependent results for the directly calculated circuit elements are presented. An analysis of the short circuit current gain that separates the transit times and RC products and allows evaluation of their individual contribution to the measured f/sub T/ and significance in limiting the HBT's high-frequency performance is reported. >
Analysis of particulate size distribution and concentrations from simulated jet engine bleed air incidents

Engine oil migrating into the bleed air stream of aircraft environmental control systems occurs with enough frequency and deleterious effects to generate significant public interest. While previous work has explored the chemical makeup of the contaminants in the aircraft cabin during these events, little is known about the characteristics of the aerosol resulting from oil contamination of bleed air. This article presents particle counter data (giving both size distributions and concentration information) of the oil droplets from simulated jet engine bleed air. Four particle counters—a scanning mobility analyzer, an aerodynamic particle-sizer, an optical particle counter, and a water-based condensation particle counter—were used in the study encompassing a size range from 13 nm to 20 μm. The aerosol characterization is given for different bleed air temperatures and pressures. The data show a substantial increase of ultrafine particles as the temperature is increased to the maximum temperatures expected dur...
Synthesis and biological studies of yohimbine derivatives on human α2C-adrenergic receptors

A series of yohimbine derivatives was synthesized and evaluated for binding affinity at the human alpha(2C)-adrenergic receptors expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells. It has been found that compound 5 shows a higher affinity for alpha(2C)-AR than the parent compound yohimbine 1, thereby illustrating that the nature of the linkers affect binding potencies on these receptors.
The activation of protein sulfhydryl groups by vitamin B12.

Abstract 1. 1. Protein sulfhydryl groups of the E. coli 113-3 measured by the ferricyanide method decreased on aging of the cells and increased after activation with glucose 6-phosphate, glutathione, and vitamin B 12 . 2. 2. These changes paralleled changes in enzyme activity. 3. 3. It is suggested that B 12 activated bound sulfhydryl groups.
Defining proprioceptive behaviors for autonomous mobile robots

Proprioception is a sense of body position and movement that supports the control of many automatic motor functions such as posture and locomotion. This concept, normally relegated to the fields of neural physiology and kinesiology, is being utilized in the field of unmanned mobile robotics. This paper looks at developing proprioceptive behaviors for use in controlling an unmanned ground vehicle. First, we will discuss the field of behavioral control of mobile robots. Next, a discussion of proprioception and the development of proprioceptive sensors will be presented. We will then focus on the development of a unique neural-fuzzy architecture that will be used to incorporate the control behaviors coming directly from the proprioceptive sensors. Finally we will present a simulation experiment where a simple multi-sensor robot, utilizing both external and proprioceptive sensors, is presented with the task of navigating an unknown terrain to a known target position. Results of the mobile robot utilizing this unique fusion methodology will be discussed.
An appraisal of strategies to reduce the incidence of breast cancer

The current focus of breast cancer research is to develop a novel strategy to prevent the disease. In this review a potential model of breast cancer development is proposed based upon the results of laboratory models of the induction of mammary carcinogenesis. It is clear that susceptibility to initiation occurs in young female animals, and a preventive strategy is more effective the sooner it is started after initiation occurs. In humans we do not know the timing or the nature of the carcinogenic insult, but epidemiologic studies suggest that the process is long and initiation is most likely to occur in young adults. Hormones are the key to promotion of the carcinogenic process and it would appear that strategically the earlier an intervention is applied after initiation the better will be the general effect on the population. Hormonal contraception could prevent breast cancer if the appropriate formulation was chosen and used by all young women. This inhibitory strategy might protect women without the need to preselect based on risk factors. Breast cancer prevention would be a side effect of the contraceptive method. Alternatively, tamoxifen, an antiestrogen, is known to prevent mammary carcinogenesis in animals and prevent the appearance of second primary breast cancers in women. This well tested therapeutic agent is currently being evaluated in clinical trials of selected high-risk women aged 35 and above. Finally, retinoids have shown promise as agents in the laboratory to prevent cell replication and inhibit mammary tumorigenesis. A trial of retinoids to prevent second primary tumors in node negative breast cancer patients is currently underway in Italy. The review discusses the relative merits and concerns about these prevention strategies and proposes additional studies to be undertaken.
Dispersion of spores released from an elevated line source within a wheat canopy

Turbulent dispersion of spores was studied near a source located inside a wheat canopy. Two colors of Lycopodium spores were released simultaneously at a steady rate from line sources at two heights (0.4–0.5 m and 0.7–0.8 m) in a 0.8 to 1.0 m tall crop. The number of spores of each color released was estimated by weighing the sources before and after each release. Aerial spore concentrations were measured at 2 and 4 m downwind of the sources using rotorods placed at four heights above the canopy and small suction traps at two heights inside the canopy. Concentrations near the ground were estimated from deposits on sticky glass microscope slides placed on the ground. Experiments were conducted on six different days. Friction velocities ranged from about 0.3 to 0.5 m s−1. The average horizontal fluxes of spores were calculated as the product of the observed concentrations and average wind speeds. At a distance of 2 m downwind from the sources, more than 16 to 44% of the flux of spores released from the lower source and more than 41 to 50% of the flux of spores released from the upper source were estimated to be above the canopy. These fluxes were compared with fluxes calculated using both a K-theory model and a random-flight-fluid-parcel-trajectory simulation model. The fluxes predicted by the models were generally considerably less than the values determined experimentally.
1063 CEFUROXIME (CXM) THERAPY OF POTENTIALLY BACTEREMIC SOFT TISSUE INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN

Although used extensively in Europe, there is limited pediatric clinical experience with CXM in the United States. Thirty children, 4-43 mo in age received CXM, 25 mg/kg IV every 8 hr for potentially bacteremic soft tissue infections of the face, or epiglottitis. Infections treated included pre-septal (16) and buccal (12) cellulitis and epiglottitis (2). Blood cultures were positive in 18 patients: H. influenzae type b-13 (2 β-lactamase positive); S. pneumoniae-4; and β-lactamase positive, nontypable H. influenzae-1. An additional 5 patients with buccal cellulitis had negative cultures but H. influenzae type b antigenuria. All isolates were susceptible to CXM. The median MBC for the blood culture isolates was 0.5 μg/ml (range 0.008-2.0 μg/ml). A good clinical response was noted in all patients and repeat blood cultures performed on initially bacteremic patients were sterile. The mean duration of CXM therapy was 4.6±1.2 days. All patients were discharged on an appropriate oral antibiotic to complete a 10 day course of therapy. There were no clinical adverse effects or breakthrough meningitis experienced during therapy with CXM. Lab abnormalitis encountered included absolute granulocytopenia (4); thrombocytosis (3); and elevated liver functions (2). CXM appears to be a safe and effective therapy of pediatric soft tissue infections due to H. influenzae and S. pneumoniae.
Ab initio calculation of the electronic and optical properties of solid pentacene

The optical and electronic properties of crystalline pentacene are studied, using a first-principle Green's-function approach. The quasiparticle energies are calculated within the GW approximation and the electron-hole excitations are computed by solving the Bethe-Salpeter equation. We investigate the role of polymorphism on the electronic energy gap and linear optical spectrum by studying two different crystalline phases: the solution-phase structure and the vapor-phase structure. Charge-transfer excitons are found to dominate the optical spectrum. Excitons with sizable binding energies are predicted for both phases.
Living systems theory as a paradigm for organizational behavior: Understanding humans, organizations, and social processes

Living systems theories have been used to model human, organization, and communication processes. This paper attempts to describe these models and to highlight the isomorphisms among the models. Particular emphasis is given to self-regulating properties of humans as a subsystem of social systems. Attention is given to the advantages of generalizing across levels and phenomena and integrating the middle-range theories that dominate the field of organizational behavior. Three broad recommendations for future research are discussed.
Autonomous multi-scale object detection with hough forests

The objective of this work is to detect a class of objects in images or video using multi-scale voting with random Hough Forests. Hough Forests have several nice properties, including that an implicit shape model is automatically learned from cropped images of a particular class of object and the voting induced by a Hough technique allows the detection method to handle partial occlusions. Typical Hough Forest voting is however scale sensitive when it comes to both training and testing. Currently, searching for multiple scales for an object size is achieved by re-running the detection routine for a given image at numerous manually provided input scales. This work will demonstrate that manually input scale parameters can lower detection rates if all scales in the test set are not accounted for. The novelty of our proposed work is in the creation of an autonomous scale estimation and multi-scalar detection Hough Forest voting technique. The technique proposed to accomplish the automatic scale estimation is to view votes as not votes for discrete locations, but rather as voting rays. The intersection of these rays can then be used to automatically determine the estimated object's center and scale.
The relationship of asthma and anxiety disorders.

Objective: This article reviewed the child and adult medical literature on the prevalence of comorbid anxiety disorders in patients with asthma. Theoretical ideas regarding the relatively high comorbidity rates are presented along with a model describing putative interactions between anxiety disorders and asthma. Method: A search of the literature from the last 2 decades using MEDLINE by pairing the word, “asthma,” with the following words: “anxiety,” “depression,” “panic,” and “psychological disorders.” We located additional research by screening the bibliographies of articles retrieved in the MEDLINE search. Results: Both adult and child/adolescent populations with asthma appear to have a high prevalence of anxiety disorders. In child/adolescent populations with asthma, up to one third may meet criteria for comorbid anxiety disorders. In adult populations with asthma, the estimated rate of panic disorder ranges from 6.5% to 24%. However, most studies are limited by small samples, nonrepresentative populations, self-reported asthma status, and lack of controlling for important potential confounders such as smoking and asthma medications. There are also limited data on the impact of anxiety comorbidity in patients with asthma on symptom burden, self-care regimens (such as monitoring peak expiratory flow, taking medication, and quitting smoking), functional status, and medical costs. Conclusions: There appears to be a high comorbidity of anxiety disorders in patients with asthma. The prevalence and longitudinal impact of anxiety comorbidity needs to be examined in a large population-based sample of children, adolescents, and adults with asthma. If a high prevalence of comorbid anxiety disorder is documented and if this comorbidity adversely affects the self-efficacy and self-care, symptom burden, and functioning in persons with asthma, then it will be important to develop treatment trials.
Between Obligation and Inspiration Choosing Qualitative Inquiry

This story depicts a therapeutic interlude in the author’s life that took place in 1981. Trained as an experimentalist in the tradition of positivist social science, the main character comes to therapy in the middle of a crisis in meaning stirred by a growing awareness that the social sciences are increasingly devoted to triviality, disciplinary fragmentation, and the production of mountains of data devoid of concern for the serious problems and moral dilemmas of human life. Already invested in a successful career as a quantitative methodologist, the client struggles to come to terms with the conflicts he feels between the obligations that restrain him and the inspirations that arouse him. In the course of therapy, he revisits the “voices in his head”—the mentors who have influenced the direction of his work and his life—and the institutional forces that can inhibit or impede one’s desire to choose a life course consistent with who one takes one’s self to be.
Zinc-activated C-peptide resistance to the type 2 diabetic erythrocyte is associated with hyperglycemia-induced phosphatidylserine externalization and reversed by metformin

Insulin resistance can broadly be defined as the diminished ability of cells to respond to the action of insulin in transporting glucose from the bloodstream into cells and tissues. Here, we report that erythrocytes (ERYs) obtained from type 2 diabetic rats display an apparent resistance to Zn(2+)-activated C-peptide. Thus, the aims of this study were to demonstrate that Zn(2+)-activated C-peptide exerts potentially beneficial effects on healthy ERYs and that these same effects on type 2 diabetic ERYs are enhanced in the presence of metformin. Incubation of ERYs (obtained from type 2 diabetic BBZDR/Wor-rats) with Zn(2+)-activated C-peptide followed by chemiluminescence measurements of ATP resulted in a 31.2 +/- 4.0% increase in ATP release from these ERYs compared to a 78.4 +/- 4.9% increase from control ERYs. Glucose accumulation in diabetic ERYs, measured by scintillation counting of (14)C-labeled glucose, increased by 35.8 +/- 1.3% in the presence of the Zn(2+)-activated C-peptide, a value significantly lower than results obtained from control ERYs (64.3 +/- 5.1%). When Zn(2+)-activated C-peptide was exogenously added to diabetic ERYs, immunoassays revealed a 32.5 +/- 8.2% increase in C-peptide absorbance compared to a 64.4 +/- 10.3% increase in control ERYs. Phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization and metformin sensitization of Zn(2+)-activated C-peptide were examined spectrofluorometrically by measuring the binding of FITC-labeled annexin to PS. The incubation of diabetic ERYs with metformin prior to the addition of Zn(2+)-activated C-peptide resulted in values that were statistically equivalent to those of controls. Summarily, data obtained here demonstrate an apparent resistance to Zn(2+)-activated C-peptide by the ERY that is corrected by metformin.