Showing papers by "Pennsylvania State University published in 1984"

Corporate Social Responsibility and Financial Performance

Abstract: The relationship between corporate social responsibility and financial performance is reexamined using a new methodology, improved technique, and industry-specific control groups. Average age of corporate assets is found to be highly correlated with social responsibility ranking. After controlling for this factor, there still is some correlation between corporate social responsibility andfinancial performance.

Upper Echelons: The Organization as a Reflection of its Top Managers

Abstract: This analysis considers the impact of the top managers in an organization on the organization's outcomes, specifically strategic choices and performance levels. The focus is not on the chief executive alone, but rather on the entire top management team. Using a macro view, these organizational outcomes are perceived to be related to the values and cognitive bases of those high-power individuals in the organization. In developing the model, emphasis is on the background characteristics of the top managers as opposed to the psychological dimensions. A series of propositions that should be tested to support the upper echelons theory are presented. The topics of these propositions include age, functional track, other career experiences, education, socioeconomic roots, financial position, and group characteristics. The creation of this model is just the beginning of the work that is necessary to evaluate and understand the upper echelons theory. Further input is needed from areas such as the executive recruiting industry. Additionally, clinical and statistical studies are both necessary to fully develop this theory. (SRD)

Eight-vertex SOS model and generalized Rogers-Ramanujan-type identities

Abstract: The eight-vertex model is equivalent to a “solid-on-solid” (SOS) model, in which an integer heightl i is associated with each sitei of the square lattice. The Boltzmann weights of the model are expressed in terms of elliptic functions of period 2K, and involve a variable parameter η. Here we begin by showing that the hard hexagon model is a special case of this eight-vertex SOS model, in which η=K/5 and the heights are restricted to the range 1⩽l i⩽4. We remark that the calculation of the sublattice densities of the hard hexagon model involves the Rogers-Ramanujan and related identities. We then go on to consider a more general eight-vertex SOS model, with η=K/r (r an integer) and 1⩽l i⩽r−1. We evaluate the local height probabilities (which are the analogs of the sublattice densities) of this model, and are automatically led to generalizations of the Rogers-Ramanujan and similar identities. The results are put into a form suitable for examining critical behavior, and exponentsβ, α, $$\bar \alpha $$ are obtained.

Human polyomavirus JC virus genome.

Abstract: The complete DNA sequence of the human JC virus, which was found to consist of 5,130 nucleotide pairs, is presented. The amino acid sequence of six proteins could be deduced: the early, nonstructural proteins, large T and small t antigens; the late capsid proteins, VP1, VP2, and VP3; and the agnogene product encoded within the late leader sequence, called the agnoprotein in simian virus 40. The extent of homology between JC virus DNA and the genomes of simian virus 40 (69%) and BK virus (75%) confirmed the close evolutionary relationship of these three polyomaviruses. The sequences showing the greatest divergence in these viral DNAs occurred within the tandem repeats located to the late side of the replication origins.

Statistical inference based on ranks

Abstract: This paper develops a unified approach, based on ranks, to the statistical analysis of data arising from complex experimental designs. In this way we answer a major objection to the use of rank procedures as a major methodology in data analysis. We show that the rank procedures, including testing, estimation and multiple comparisons, are generated in a natural way from a robust measure of scale. The rank methods closely parallel the familiar methods of least squares, so that estimates and tests have natural interpretations.

Scripts in Organizational Behavior

Abstract: The concept of a “script” is presented as a framework for understanding the cognitive dynamics underlying many organizational behaviors and actions. A script is a schematic knowledge structure held in memory that specifies behavior or event sequences that are appropriate for specific situations. “Script processing” is the performance of the behaviors or events contained in the knowledge structure. Many facets of organizational behavior can be effectively described, analyzed, and understood by using the script concept and processing notion.

Foraging Behavior of Free-Ranging Wild and Hatchery Brown Trout in a Stream

Abstract: Wild brown trout Salmo trutta in a fertile, high-conductivity stream in central Pennsylvania were observed from camouflaged towers for three consecutive years in order to quantify the diurnal feeding and social behavior of undisturbed adults. The foraging behavior observed was characterized in general as one of net energy maximization effectuated principally by cost minimization. Individuals ranging in age from young of the year to 8 years spent 86% of foraging time in a sit-and-wait search state, used discrete, energy-saving foraging sites year after year, and fed mainly off drift, taking less than 15% of their food items directly off the bottom. Feeding rates decreased with age, were highest in spring and fall, and showed little effect of time of day except for short peaks at dusk in May and June. The home range of most individuals was established in the first or second year of life and changed little thereafter. The mean size of the home range of individuals was 15.6 m2 and decreased slightly ...

Dielectric properties of lead-magnesium niobate ceramics

Abstract: Dielectric properties are reported for lead magnesium niobate (PbMg1/3Nb2/3/O3) ceramics which were prepared as single phase (i.e., without pyrochlore) with an improved technique. Dielectric constants of 18000 for pure PMN and 31000 for PMN with 10% PbTiO3 were achieved; these values are 50% larger than those reported in the literature. The dielectric constant of PMN ceramics was found to increase with both sintering temperature and excess MgO, and subsequent analysis of the microstructures confirmed that this was due to an increase in grain size. This grain-size dependence is explained as a consequence of low-permittivity grain boundaries.

Polyphosphazene solid electrolytes

Abstract: : The phosphazene polymer (NP(OC2H40C2H4OCH3)n, MEEP, was synthesized and amorphous solvent-free salt complexes were performed with LiSo3CF3, NaSO3CF3, Sr(SO3CF3)2, and AgSO3CF3. A material with the composition (LiSO3CF3)0.25. MEEP has a conductivity of .00008 ohm/cm at 30 C, which is much higher than corresponding poly (ethylene oxide) complexes. The phosphazene electrolytes are promising materials for ambient-temperature high energy density batteries.

Differential Effects of Maternal Stress on Circulating Levels of Corticosterone, Progesterone, and Testosterone in Male and Female Rat Fetuses and Their Mothers*

Abstract: Testosterone, progesterone, and corticosterone titers were measured by RIA in plasma of stressed and control pregnant rats and their male and female fetuses on days 17, 18, 19, and 21 of gestation and on the day of birth. The regimen of stress used (three 45-min periods of restraint under intense illumination daily from days 14–21 of pregnancy) causes failure of masculinization and defeminization of behavioral potentials in male offspring. In fetuses of both sexes, corticosterone titers increased sharply between days 17 and 18 postconception (pc) to a peak that was maintained through day 19 and then declined. This pattern resembled that obtained for testosterone in control male fetuses in which the levels of testosterone also rose sharply between days 17 and 18 pc. Corticosterone titers were elevated in samples obtained during the middle of the stress session from both the mothers (serum) and their male and female fetuses (plasma). Increased corticosterone levels were no longer evident in samples obtained...

Comparative studies of extracellular fungal laccases.

Abstract: Various basidiomycetes, ascomycetes, and deuteromycetes, grown in a sugar-rich liquid medium, were compared for laccase-producing ability and for the inducing effect of 2,5-xylidine on laccase production. Clear stimulation of the extracellular enzyme formation by xylidine was obtained in the cultures of Fomes annosus, Pholiota mutabilis, Pleurotus ostreatus, and Trametes versicolor, whereas Rhizoctonia praticola and Botrytis cinerea were not affected by the xylidine, and in the case of Podospora anserina a decrease in laccase activity was observed. The laccases were purified, and electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gels indicated a particular pattern for each laccase. The bands of the induced forms appeared only with basidiomycetes. The optimal pH of R. praticola laccase was in the neutral region, whereas the optima of all the other exolaccases were significantly lower (between pH 3.0 and 5.7). All laccases oxidized the methoxyphenolic acids under investigation, but there existed quantitative differences in oxidation efficiencies which depended on pH and on the nature (noninduced or induced) of the enzyme. The sensitivity of all enzymes to inhibitors did not differ considerably.

Succession and Nutrient Dynamics Following Forest Cutting and Burning in Amazonia

Abstract: Plant establishment, plant mortality, vegetation productivity, nutrient accumulation, and nutrient leaching were studied during the first 5 yr of succession following the cutting and burning of a forest plot in the upper Rio Negro region of the Amazon Basin. The speed and vigor of forest regeneration following disturbance of this type provide a measure of the recuperative potential of this ecosystem. The study plot (0.09 ha) was dominated by forbs during the 1 st yr and then by the pioneer tree species Cecropiaficifolia Snethlage during year two. Tree mortality exceeded establishment during the 3rd yr because the C. ficifolia trees died nearly in unison. During the 4th yr, tree density increased sharply as successional and forest tree species grew in the space vacated by C. ficifolia. The canopy was dominated at that time by the pioneer species Vismia japurensis Reich. and Vismia lauriformis (Lam.) Choisy. By the 5th yr, all establishment space had apparently been preempted: there were only 0.07 new establishments/M2 during year five, while 95% of the trees present at the end of year four survived through the 5th yr. There were 56 tree species (? 2 m tall) present on the site after 5 yr. More than half of these were primary forest species. Primary forest species were most common in the understory. These trees averaged > 1 m in growth height each year and should eventually grow into the canopy. Hence, it appears that most individuals that will participate in the aggrading phase of forest development were already present on the site within 5 yr of burning. Biomass was only 66 g/m2 at the end of the 1 st yr, but g1000 g/m2 were added in each subsequent year. The standing crop of biomass (shoot and root) at 5 yr was 4840 g/m2, a value 16% that of the mature forest which occupied the site prior to cutting. Approximately 27% of the dead trunk and branch biomass from the pre-existing forest remained on the site after 5 yr. Litter production increased each year from 39 g/m2 (year one) to 825 g/m2 (year five) and tended to be inversely related to rainfall. Total aboveground production was highest for the 5th yr (1940 g/m2) and was probably close to a maximum for the site. Total live-plant nutrient stocks after 5 yr, as a percentage of the precut forest stocks, were 15% for N, 23% for P, 39% for K, 48% for Ca, and 45% for Mg. A large increase in the leachate concentrations of K, Mg, and NO3 occurred during the first 2 yr following burning. By the 5th yr, concentrations were not significantly different from those in the undisturbed forest. After 5 yr soil nutrient levels were also similar to those of the preburn forest. Overall, nutrient losses apparently were not great enough to destroy the site's ability to return eventually to a state similar to that which existed prior to disturbance. This does not mean that a more severe treatment, such as conversion of forest to pasture, would not affect the regrowth ability of a site.

Induction of interleukin 2 messenger RNA inhibited by cyclosporin A.

Abstract: Cyclosporin A blocked production of the lymphokine interleukin 2 by activated T lymphocytes. In a human and a murine cell line this inhibition reflected an absence of interleukin 2 messenger RNA. Under conditions in which these cells are normally stimulated to secrete high levels of interleukin 2, they failed to do so in the presence of cyclosporin A. In both cell lines this failure was accompanied by an absence of interleukin 2 messenger accumulation.

Genetics and Physiology of Starch Development

Abstract: Publisher Summary This chapter reviews nonmutant starch granule composition and development, and focuses on genetic mutants and how they have been useful in understanding the complexity of polysaccharide biosynthesis and development. Plant species, which are important sources of commercial starch production are focused on, especially maize, because of the many known endosperm mutants of maize, which affect polysaccharide biosynthesis. The information gained applies to other species, and these effects are illustrated in the chapter. General trends in the genetics and physiology of starch development have been illustrated with examples. Starch is a common constituent of higher plants and a source of carbohydrates. Starch in chloroplasts is transitory and accumulates during the light period and is utilized during the dark. Storage starch accumulates in reserve organs during one phase of the plant's lifecycle and is utilized at another time. Starches from reserve organs of many plants are important in commerce. Although considerable effort has been directed at characterizing the enzymes involved in starch synthesis, the role of these enzymes and other factors in determining subtle variations in starch granule structure and starch fine structure remain largely unknown. Variations in granule structure can be associated with plant species, cultivars of a species, the environment in which a cultivar is grown, and genetic mutations.

Effect of ischemia on responses of group III and IV afferents to contraction

Abstract: Static contraction of the hindlimb muscles of cats reflexly increases cardiovascular function, an effect that is potentiated by occlusion of the arterial supply to the working muscles. Although group III and IV afferents are known to be stimulated by and to cause the reflex cardiovascular responses to static muscular contraction, little is known about the responses of these afferents to static contraction when the arterial supply to a working muscle is occluded. We therefore recorded the impulse activity of 24 group III afferents and 30 group IV afferents with endings in the triceps surae while we statically contracted this muscle group, both when the abdominal aorta was occluded and when it was patent. A chi 2 analysis revealed that ischemia increased the responses to static contractions of a significantly higher percentage of group IV afferents than group III afferents (46.7% vs. 12.5%, respectively; P less than 0.02). In addition, two patterns of responses to ischemic contraction were observed. The first pattern was displayed by afferents (n = 10) that were stimulated by nonischemic contraction but were stimulated more by ischemic contraction. The second pattern was displayed by afferents (n = 7) that were not stimulated by nonischemic contraction but were stimulated by ischemic contraction. We conclude that afferents displaying both patterns are likely to contribute to the reflex cardiovascular responses to ischemic contraction.

Latent Structure Analysis of a Set of Multidimensional Contingency Tables

Abstract: Statistical methods are introduced for latent structure analysis of a set of two or more multidimensional contingency tables. Three basic classes of models are considered: (a) models that assume complete homogeneity across tables, (b) models that allow partial homogeneity across tables, and (c) models that allow complete heterogeneity. Methods are presented for testing whether these models are congruent with the data in the tables and for assessing the significance of differences among the tables in the estimated parameters. To illustrate the wide applicability of these models and methods, we present analyses of two quite different sets of data.

Evidence for an increased risk for hypertension with centrally located body fat and the effect of race and sex on this risk

Abstract: Data from the First Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (HANES), 1971-1974, were used to examine the relationship between blood pressure and the distribution of subcutaneous body fat in 5506 survey participants, ages 30-59. Triceps and subscapular skinfolds were used as approximations of peripheral and centrally located body fat. The effects of race, sex and age on the obesity-blood pressure relationship were analyzed. Subscapular skinfold was the better predictor of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in each race-sex group, sharing all of the association of triceps with blood pressure and having significant predictive power unshared by triceps. The slopes of regression of subscapular skinfolds with systolic blood pressure for each race-sex group were not significantly different. A 1 mm increase in skinfold thickness increased the predicted mean systolic blood pressure by 0.63 +/- 0.03 mmHg (F = 519). Mean diastolic blood pressure rose 0.43 +/- 0.02 mmHg per unit increase of skinfold in whites (F = 549), and 0.14 +/- 0.04 mmHg less in blacks (F = 13), indicating a significant racial difference. Age and subscapular skinfold contributed independently to the variability in blood pressure in each race-sex group. These results demonstrate that the blood pressure of middle-aged Americans is more directly associated with centrally deposited body fat. This finding is true across race and sex groups, and is independent of age.

A conceptual framework and comparison of spatial data models.

Abstract: This paper examines the major types of spatial data models currently known and places these models in a comprehensive framework. This framework is used to provide clarification of how varying data models, as well as their inherent advantages and disadvantages, are interrelated. It also provides an insight into how these conflicting demands may be balanced in a more systematic and predictable manner for practical applications, and reveals directions for needed future research. On examine les principaux types de modeles de donnees spatiales actuels, et on les place dans un cadre global. Ce cadre est utilise pour eclaircir comment ces divers modeles spatiaux, de meme que leurs avantages et desavantages, sont interrelies. Le cadre laisse aussi voir comment ces demandes contradictoires peuvent etre equilibrees d'une facon plus systematique et previsible pour des applications pratiques, et revele les directions que doit prendre la recherche future.

A self-image questionnaire for young adolescents (SIQYA): Reliability and validity studies.

Abstract: This article describes a questionnaire measure of self-image designed for young adolescents. It represents a downward extension of the Offer Self-Image Questionnaire and utilizes nine scales from that instrument: Emotional Tone, Impulse Control, Body Image, Peer Relationships, Family Relationships, Mastery and Coping, Vocational/Educational Goals, Psychopathology, and Superior Adjustment. This 98-item questionnaire elicits responses on a 6-point Likert-type scale. The alpha coefficients for each scale are high, indicating a high degree of internal consistency among the items. The validity of this instrument is examined through factor analyses and through the association of these scales with other measures of self-image. The results suggest that this questionnaire provides a useful way to assess self-image among young adolescents.

Perceptions of the Peer Group and Friendship in Early Adolescence

Abstract: Perceptions of peer relationships were assessed in a sample of 335 boys and girls followed longitudinally from sixth through eighth grade. Semiannual interviews provided data on perceptions of the ...

Structure of particle-laden jets - Measurements and predictions

Abstract: Measurements of mean and fluctuating velocities of both phases as well as particle mass fluxes were completed in turbulent, particle-laden jets containing monodisperse particles with well-defined initial and boundary conditions. The new measurements were used to evaluate a stochastic separated flow model of the process which treated effects of interphase slip and turbulent dispersion using random-walk computations for particle motion. The continuous phase was treated using a modified k-epsilon model allowing for direct contributions of interphase transport to both mean and turbulence properties. The model performed reasonably well over the new data base, with all empirical parameters fixed from earlier work. In contrast, simplified models ignoring either interphase slip or turbulent dispersion yielded poor agreement with the measurements.

Diffusion of a small molecule in the cytoplasm of mammalian cells

Abstract: Electron spin resonance was used to measure the diffusion of a small (Mr 170) spin label in the aqueous cytoplasm of mammalian cells. Translational and rotational motion were determined from the same spectra. Based on measurements made in model systems, it was hypothesized that calculations of the apparent viscosity from either rotational or translational motion would distinguish between the effects of cytoplasmic viscosity or cytoplasmic structure on diffusion. The diffusion coefficient calculated from spin label collision frequency, averaged 3.3 X 10(-6) cm2/sec in several cell lines. It was greater in growing cells and in cells treated with cytochalasin B than in quiescent cells. The viscosity of the cytoplasm calculated from the translational diffusion coefficient or the rotational correlation time was 2.0-3.0 centipoise (1 P = 0.1 Pa X sec), about 2-3 times that of the spin label in water. Therefore, over the dimensions measured by the technique, 50-100 A, solvent viscosity appears to be the major determinant of particle movement in cells under physiological conditions. However, when cells were subjected to hypertonic conditions, the translational motion decreased by 67%, while the rotational motion changed less than 20%. These data suggested that the decrease in cell volume under hypertonic conditions was accompanied by an increase in cytoplasmic barriers and a decrease in the spacing between existing components. In addition, a comparison of reported values for diffusion of a variety of molecules in water and in cells indicates that cytoplasmic structure plays an important role in the diffusion of proteins such as bovine serum albumin.

Guidelines for using locus of instructional control in the design of computer-assisted instruction

Abstract: Computers offer a variety of instructional control options to designers of computer-assisted instruction. However, the amount and type of instructional control is affected by both the nature of the learning task and learner characteristics. The purposes of this paper are to present empirical evidence on locus of instructional control, and to present guidelines for determining learner versus lesson control in computer-assisted instruction.

Epicatechin Content in Fermented and Unfermented Cocoa Beans

Abstract: As determined by high performance liquid chromatography, (-)- epicatechin concentrations among freshly harvested beans of verified genetic origin ranged from 21.89–43.27 mg/g of dry defatted samples. Fermented beans showed much lower concentrations (2–10 mg). During fermentation, a trend towards decrease in (-)-epicatechin content was observed. Commercial beans from areas with reputations for shipping well-fermented products contained lower levels of (-)-epicatechin than beans from regions where fermentation is less extensive.