bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An SMO Algorithm for the Potential Support Vector Machine
Authors: Knebel Tilman , Hochreiter Sepp , Obermayer Klaus
Published: November 2007

We describe a fast sequential minimal optimization (SMO) procedure for solving the dual optimization problem of the recently proposed potential support vector machine (P-SVM). The new SMO consists of a sequence of iteration steps in which the Lagrangian is optimized with respect to either one (single SMO) or two (dual SMO) of the Lagrange multipliers while keeping the other variables fixed. An efficient selection procedure for Lagrange multipliers is given, and two heuristics for improving the SMO procedure are described: block optimization and annealing of the regularization parameter ε. A comparison of the variants shows that the dual SMO, including block optimization and annealing, performs efficiently in terms of computation time. In contrast to standard support vector machines (SVMs), the P-SVM is applicable to arbitrary dyadic data sets, but benchmarks are provided against libSVM's ε-SVR and C-SVC implementations for problems that are also solvable by standard SVM methods. For those problems, computation time of the P-SVM is comparable to or somewhat higher than the standard SVM. The number of support vectors found by the P-SVM is usually much smaller for the same generalization performance.
Irregular Firing of Isolated Cortical Interneurons in Vitro Driven by Intrinsic Stochastic Mechanisms
Authors: Englitz Bernhard , Stiefel Klaus M. , Sejnowski Terrence J.
Published: November 2007

Pharmacologically isolated GABAergic irregular spiking and stuttering interneurons in the mouse visual cortex display highly irregular spike times, with high coefficients of variation ≈0.9–3, in response to a depolarizing, constant current input. This is in marked contrast to cortical pyramidal cells, which spike quite regularly in response to the same current injection. We applied time-series analysis methods to show that the irregular behavior of the interneurons was not a consequence of low-dimensional, deterministic processes. These methods were also applied to the Hindmarsh and Rose neuronal model to confirm that the methods are adequate for the types of data under investigation. This result has important consequences for the origin of fluctuations observed in the cortex in vivo.
Bayesian Spiking Neurons I: Inference
Authors: Deneve Sophie
Published: November 2007

We show that the dynamics of spiking neurons can be interpreted as a form of Bayesian inference in time. Neurons that optimally integrate evidence about events in the external world exhibit properties similar to leaky integrate-and-fire neurons with spike-dependent adaptation and maximally respond to fluctuations of their input. Spikes signal the occurrence of new information—what cannot be predicted from the past activity. As a result, firing statistics are close to Poisson, albeit providing a deterministic representation of probabilities.
Organizational Change and the Economics of Management Consulting: A Response to Sorge and van Witteloostuijn
Authors: Armbrüster Thomas , Glückler Johannes
Published: November 2007

This essay responds to Sorge and van Witteloostuijn (2004) and argues that consulting firms play an important economic role in helping organizations trigger and deal with change. Sorge and van Witteloostuijn claim that management consultancy is a business in which clients buy into hype-driven and unsubstantiated advice, and they imply that consultants yield returns from short-term opportunism based on information asymmetries. We propose that clients have several sources for assessing consulting service quality, and word-of-mouth effects discourage short-term opportunism of consultants. We also question Sorge and van Witteloostuijn's view that the need for organizations to change is largely a myth. We present data on economic changes over the last three decades to which firms had to respond and continue to do so. Accordingly, we argue that the continuing demand for consultancy is genuine, rather than induced by hype.
The (Non)sense of Organizational Change Continued: A Rejoinder to Armbrüster and Glückler
Authors: Sorge Arndt , van Witteloostuijn Arjen
Published: November 2007

The paper by Armbrüster and Glückler (2007) contains some interesting material on the development of the consultancy industry and on the more recent nature of internationalization. However, their paper severely misrepresents and distorts most of what we have written. The argument it makes therefore does not affect what we have said, and it does not acknowledge that important parts of our treatment are compatible with what they say. In fact, the flow of discussion from our essai to theirs shows the continuing topicality of our worries and propositions.
The Influence of Crack Cocaine on the Likelihood of Incarceration for a Violent Offense: An Examination of a Prison Sample
Authors: Leigey Margaret E. , Bachman Ronet
Published: November 2007

One of the most heated debates surrounding the 1988 Anti-Drug Abuse Act has been about the “100 to 1” quantity ratio used for sentencing traffickers of the crack version of cocaine as compared to powder. This disparity primarily was based on the notion that crack cocaine users were more likely to engage in violence compared to their powder using counterparts (Everett, 1998; Sandy, 2003). However, there is still a paucity of empirical research that has examined the relationship between powder versus crack cocaine and violence. The purpose of this research was to investigate the following question: Do inmates who were under the influence of crack cocaine at the time of their offenses have a greater probability of being incarcerated for violent offenses compared to those offenders who were under the influence of powder cocaine? Clearly, the answer to this question is extremely relevant to policy regarding the 100 to 1 disparity in sentencing for crack offenders as mandated by the Act. Using race-specific models of logistic regression, results from this research found that respondents who were under the influence of either crack or powder cocaine were less likely to be incarcerated for a violent offense than respondents who were under the influence of alcohol. Additionally, the probabilities of serving time for a violent offense were approximately equal for individuals who were under the influence of crack cocaine compared to those who were under the influence of powder cocaine. However, the probability of serving time for a violent offense was approximately two times higher if the respondent was under the influence of alcohol compared to either crack or powder cocaine. This was true for both white and African-Americans offenders.
A Preliminary Examination of AMBER Alert's Effects
Authors: Griffin Timothy , Miller Monica K. , Hoppe Jeffrey , Rebideaux Amy , Hammack Rachel
Published: November 2007

AMBER Alerts are public announcements designed to elicit citizen tips that could help rapidly recover abducted children before they can be harmed by their kidnappers. Using various media accounts as a data source to garner a convenience sample of 275 alerts, the authors gathered basic information, including victim–offender relationship, recovery time, and the direct effects of the alert. AMBER Alert does appear to provide some positive benefits in recovering abducted children, although the evidence suggests that the alerts are not often used in “stereotypical” stranger abduction cases, and rarely do they appear to have the effect of possibly saving lives. The alerts appear most likely to be “successful” in familial abduction situations instead of the more menacing stranger abduction cases for which they were intended. Policy implications are discussed.
Effects of insurance status on children's access to specialty care: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Skinner Asheley Cockrell , Mayer Michelle L
Published: November 2007

Background

The current climate of rising health care costs has led many health insurance programs to limit benefits, which may be problematic for children needing specialty care. Findings from pediatric primary care may not transfer to pediatric specialty care because pediatric specialists are often located in academic medical centers where institutional rules determine accepted insurance. Furthermore, coverage for pediatric specialty care may vary more widely due to systematic differences in inclusion on preferred provider lists, lack of availability in staff model HMOs, and requirements for referral. Our objective was to review the literature on the effects of insurance status on children's access to specialty care.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of original research published between January 1, 1992 and July 31, 2006. Searches were performed using Pubmed.

Results

Of 30 articles identified, the majority use number of specialty visits or referrals to measure access. Uninsured children have poorer access to specialty care than insured children. Children with public coverage have better access to specialty care than uninsured children, but poorer access compared to privately insured children. Findings on the effects of managed care are mixed.

Conclusion

Insurance coverage is clearly an important factor in children's access to specialty care. However, we cannot determine the structure of insurance that leads to the best use of appropriate, quality care by children. Research about specific characteristics of health plans and effects on health outcomes is needed to determine a structure of insurance coverage that provides optimal access to specialty care for children.
Gene expression profiling of leukemic cells and primary thymocytes predicts a signature for apoptotic sensitivity to glucocorticoids
Authors: Miller Aaron L , Komak Spogmai , Webb M Scott , Leiter Edward H , Thompson E Brad
Published: November 2007

Background

Glucocorticoids (GC's) play an integral role in treatment strategies designed to combat various forms of hematological malignancies. GCs also are powerful inhibitors of the immune system, through regulation of appropriate cytokines and by causing apoptosis of immature thymocytes. By activating the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), GCs evoke apoptosis through transcriptional regulation of a complex, interactive gene network over a period of time preceding activation of the apoptotic enzymes. In this study we used microarray technology to determine whether several disparate types of hematologic cells, all sensitive to GC-evoked apoptosis, would identify a common set of regulated genes. We compared gene expression signatures after treatment with two potent synthetic GCs, dexamethasone (Dex) and cortivazol (CVZ) using a panel of hematologic cells. Pediatric CD4+/CD8+ T-cell leukemia was represented by 3 CEM clones: two sensitive, CEM-C7–14 and CEM-C1–6, and one resistant, CEM-C1–15, to Dex. CEM-C1–15 was also tested when rendered GC-sensitive by several treatments. GC-sensitive pediatric B-cell leukemia was represented by the SUP-B15 line and adult B-cell leukemia by RS4;11 cells. Kasumi-1 cells gave an example of the rare Dex-sensitive acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML). To test the generality of the correlations in malignant cell gene sets, we compared with GC effects on mouse non-transformed thymocytes.

Results

We identified a set of genes regulated by GCs in all GC-sensitive malignant cells. A portion of these were also regulated in the thymocytes. Because we knew that the highly Dex-resistant CEM-C1–15 cells could be killed by CVZ, we tested these cells with the latter steroid and again found that many of the same genes were now regulated as in the inherently GC-sensitive cells. The same result was obtained when we converted the Dex-resistant clone to Dex-sensitive by treatment with forskolin (FSK), to activate the adenyl cyclase/protein kinase A pathway (PKA).

Conclusion

Our results have identified small sets of genes that correlate with GC-sensitivity in cells from several hematologic malignancies. Some of these are also regulated in normal mouse thymocytes.
A Small-Scale Concept-based Laboratory Component: The Best of Both Worlds
Authors: Halme Dina Gould , Khodor Julia , Mitchell Rudolph , Walker Graham C.
Published: November 2007

In this article, we describe an exploratory study of a small-scale, concept-driven, voluntary laboratory component of Introductory Biology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. We wished to investigate whether students' attitudes toward biology and their understanding of basic biological principles would improve through concept-based learning in a laboratory environment. With these goals in mind, and using our Biology Concept Framework as a guide, we designed laboratory exercises to connect topics from the lecture portion of the course and highlight key concepts. We also strove to make abstract concepts tangible, encourage learning in nonlecture format, expose the students to scientific method in action, and convey the excitement of performing experiments. Our initial small-scale assessments indicate participation in the laboratory component, which featured both hands-on and minds-on components, improved student learning and retention of basic biological concepts. Further investigation will focus on improving the balance between the minds-on concept-based learning and the hands-on experimental component of the laboratory.
From Organelle to Protein Gel: A 6-Wk Laboratory Project on Flagellar Proteins
Authors: Mitchell Beth Ferro , Graziano Mary R.
Published: November 2007

Research suggests that undergraduate students learn more from lab experiences that involve longer-term projects. We have developed a one-semester laboratory sequence aimed at sophomore-level undergraduates. In designing this curriculum, we focused on several educational objectives: 1) giving students a feel for the scientific research process, 2) introducing them to commonly used lab techniques, and 3) building skills in both data analysis and scientific writing. Over the course of the semester, students carry out two project-based lab experiences and write two substantial lab reports modeled on primary literature. Student assessment data indicate that this lab curriculum achieved these objectives. This article describes the first of these projects, which uses the biflagellate alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to introduce students to the study of flagellar motility, protein synthesis, microtubule polymerization, organelle assembly, and protein isolation and characterization.
An Online, Interactive Approach to Teaching Neuroscience to Adolescents
Authors: Miller Leslie , Moreno Janette , Willcockson Irmgard , Smith Donna , Mayes Janice
Published: November 2007

Most of today's students are skilled in instant messaging, Web browsing, online games, and blogs. These have become part of the social landscape and have changed how we learn and where we learn. The question becomes how to harness the attractiveness and ubiquity of electronic venues toward the goal of teaching neuroscience. At the Rice University Center for Technology in Teaching and Learning, a central focus is the creation of innovative materials that appeal to middle school students. A recent project was undertaken through a Science Education Drug Abuse Partnership Award (R25 DA15063) from the National Institute on Drug Abuse to inform adolescents about the neurobiology of substance abuse and the current research dealing with a class of drugs known as club drugs. Problem-based learning, multimedia pedagogy, and the National Science Content Standards were integrated to produce The Reconstructors™, an episodic series available via the World Wide Web at http://reconstructors.rice.edu . A field test of students from five schools assessed the retention of content after “playing” The Reconstructors™ series titled Nothing to Rave About. Gain scores indicated that middle school students' knowledge about club drugs and the basic neuroscience concepts that explain their effects improved significantly.
DNA Microarray Wet Lab Simulation Brings Genomics into the High School Curriculum
Authors: Campbell A. Malcolm , Zanta Carolyn A. , Heyer Laurie J. , Kittinger Ben , Gabric Kathleen M. , Adler Leslie
Published: November 2007

We have developed a wet lab DNA microarray simulation as part of a complete DNA microarray module for high school students. The wet lab simulation has been field tested with high school students in Illinois and Maryland as well as in workshops with high school teachers from across the nation. Instead of using DNA, our simulation is based on pH indicators, which offer many ideal teaching characteristics. The simulation requires no specialized equipment, is very inexpensive, is very reliable, and takes very little preparation time. Student and teacher assessment data indicate the simulation is popular with both groups, and students show significant learning gains. We include many resources with this publication, including all prelab introductory materials (e.g., a paper microarray activity), the student handouts, teachers notes, and pre- and postassessment tools. We did not test the simulation on other student populations, but based on teacher feedback, the simulation also may fit well in community college and in introductory and nonmajors' college biology curricula.
Teaching Human Genetics with Mustard: Rapid Cycling Brassica rapa (Fast Plants Type) as a Model for Human Genetics in the Classroom Laboratory
Authors: Wendell Douglas L. , Pickard Dawn
Published: November 2007

We have developed experiments and materials to model human genetics using rapid cycling Brassica rapa, also known as Fast Plants. Because of their self-incompatibility for pollination and the genetic diversity within strains, B. rapa can serve as a relevant model for human genetics in teaching laboratory experiments. The experiment presented here is a paternity exclusion project in which a child is born with a known mother but two possible alleged fathers. Students use DNA markers (microsatellites) to perform paternity exclusion on these subjects. Realistic DNA marker analysis can be challenging to implement within the limitations of an instructional lab, but we have optimized the experimental methods to work in a teaching lab environment and to maximize the “hands-on” experience for the students. The genetic individuality of each B. rapa plant, revealed by analysis of polymorphic microsatellite markers, means that each time students perform this project, they obtain unique results that foster independent thinking in the process of data interpretation.
ED Crowding Is Associated with Variable Perceptions of Care Compromise
Authors: Pines Jesse M. , Garson Chad , Baxt William G. , Rhodes Karin V. , Shofer Frances S. , Hollander Judd E.
Published: November 2007

Objectives The authors measured the association between emergency department (ED) crowding and patient and provider perceptions about whether patient care was compromised.

Methods This was a cross‐sectional study of patients admitted from the ED and their providers. Surveys of patients, nurses, and resident physicians were linked. The primary outcome was agreement or strong agreement on a five‐item scale assessing whether ED crowding compromised care. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between the primary outcome and measures of ED crowding.

Results Of 741 patients approached, 644 patients consented (87%); 703 resident physician surveys (95%) and 716 nursing surveys (97%) were completed. A total of 106 patients (16%), 86 residents (12%), and 173 nurses (24%) reported that care was compromised by ED crowding. In 252 cases (35%), one or more respondents reported that care was compromised. There was poor agreement over whose care was compromised. For patients, independent predictors of compromised care were waiting room time (odds ratio [OR], 1.05 for each additional 10‐minute wait [95% confidence interval {CI} = 1.02 to 1.09]) and being surveyed in a hallway bed (OR, 2.02 [95% CI = 1.12 to 3.68]). Predictors of compromised care for nurses included waiting room time (OR, 1.05 for each additional 10‐minute wait [95% CI = 1.01 to 1.08]), number of patients in the waiting room (OR, 1.05 for each additional patient waiting [95% CI = 1.02 to 1.07]), and number of admitted patients waiting for an inpatient bed (OR, 1.08 for each additional patient [95% CI = 1.03 to 1.12]). For residents, predictors of compromised care were patient/nurse ratio (OR, 1.39 for a one‐unit increase [95% CI = 1.09 to 1.20]) and number of admitted patients waiting for an inpatient bed (OR, 1.14 for each additional patient [95% CI = 1.10 to 1.75]).

Conclusions ED crowding is associated with perceptions of compromised emergency care. There is considerable variability among nurses, patients, and resident physicians over which factors are associated with compromised care, whose care was compromised, and how care was compromised.
End‐tidal Carbon Dioxide Measurements in Children with Acute Asthma
Authors: Guthrie Bridgette D. , Adler Mark D. , Powell Elizabeth C.
Published: November 2007

Objectives A noninvasive method to assess ventilation may aid in management of children with acute asthma. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between end‐tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) values and disease severity among children with acute asthma.

Methods This was a prospective, blinded, observational study of children 3–17 years old treated for acute asthma in a pediatric emergency department (ED). EtCO2 measurements were taken before the initiation of therapy and after each nebulization treatment (maximum of three). Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), Pediatric Asthma Severity Score (PASS), oxygen saturation, and disposition were recorded. Treating physicians, unaware of the EtCO2 results, made all treatment decisions, including disposition.

Results One hundred children were enrolled. The mean initial EtCO2 value was 35 mm Hg (95% confidence interval = 34.3 to 36.1 mm Hg). The mean disposition EtCO2 value was 33.3 mm Hg (95% confidence interval = 32.6 to 34.4 mm Hg). PEFR measures were completed on 43 patients and PASS recorded on 100 patients. There was an overall trend toward lower EtCO2 values during treatment (p < 0.01). Sixteen patients were admitted. Initial EtCO2 values were lower among children admitted to the hospital (35.6 mm Hg vs. 32.9 mm Hg; Mann‐Whitney U test; p < 0.02). EtCO2 values at disposition did not differ between groups based on PEFR, PASS, or hospital admission.

Conclusions Noninvasive bedside measurement of EtCO2 values among children with acute asthma is feasible. EtCO2 values did not distinguish children with mild disease from those with more severe disease. Further data are needed to clarify the association between EtCO2 values and other indicators of disease severity, particularly in children with more severe disease.
Gender Trends in Emergency Medicine Publications
Authors: Li Siu Fai , Latib Nashat , Kwong Angela , Zinzuwadia Shreni , Cowan Ethan
Published: November 2007

Background In recent years, the number of women entering the field of emergency medicine (EM) has increased.

Objectives To determine if authorship in EM publications has increased in parallel with this trend.

Methods The gender of first and last authors of EM articles in Academic Emergency Medicine, American Journal of Emergency Medicine, Annals of Emergency Medicine, and Journal of Emergency Medicine were examined. The authors reviewed articles from 1985, 1995, and 2005 for American Journal of Emergency Medicine, Annals of Emergency Medicine, and Journal of Emergency Medicine and from 1999 and 2005 for Academic Emergency Medicine. The primary outcomes were the proportions of female authors.

Results A total of 2,016 articles were reviewed. Overall, 18% of first and last authors were female. Respectively, for 1985, 1995, 1999, and 2005, the proportions of female first authors were 9%, 15%, 19%, and 24%; the proportions of female last authors were 9%, 18%, 19%, and 22%. The trend of increases in female authorship was statistically significant.

Conclusions Although female authorship remains a minority in EM publications, it has increased significantly in parallel with increases in female participation in EM.
Episodic Indexing: A Model of Memory for Attention Events
Authors: Altmann Erik M , John Bonnie E.
Published: November 2007

People often remember what they attend to in the world. Such memory can be cast as a kind of mental catalog or index of attended objects. To investigate how such an index is acquired and used, protocol data were collected from a programmer who scrolled to off‐screen objects from time to time as she worked. These protocol data were modeled using Soar, which constrains how the index is constructed. In the model, an index entry is an episodic trace encoded during attention. The trace associates the attention event with a time symbol denoting the event's occurrence. Later, the model can ask itself whether it saw that object by calling to mind an image of the attention event. If this image retrieves a time symbol, then the model infers that the object exists and can reason about bringing the object back into view. Episodic indexing is a theory of these encoding and retrieval processes. It posits that information about attention events is encoded automatically, but that retrieval requires effort and knowledge. Episodic indexing is congruent with a range of results on episodic and temporal codes and recognition and recall processes. It incorporates source monitoring (Johnson, Hashtroudi, & Lindsay, 1993) and is a simple and pervasive form of long‐term working memory (Ericsson & Kintsch, 1995).
Grammar‐based Connectionist Approaches to Language
Authors: Smolensky Paul
Published: November 2007

This article describes an approach to connectionist language research that relies on the development of grammar formalisms rather than computer models. From formulations of the fundamental theoretical commitments of connectionism and of generative grammar, it is argued that these two paradigms are mutually compatible. Integrating the basic assumptions of the paradigms results in formal theories of grammar that centrally incorporate a certain degree of connectionist computation. Two such grammar formalisms—Harmonic Grammar and Optimality Theory —are briefly introduced to illustrate grammar‐based approaches to connectionist language research. The strengths and weaknesses of grammar‐based research and more traditional model‐based research are argued to be complementary, suggesting a significant role for both strategies in the spectrum of connectionist language research.
ADF/cofilin family proteins control formation of oriented actin-filament bundles in the cell body to trigger fibroblast polarization
Authors: Mseka Tayamika , Bamburg Jim R. , Cramer Louise P.
Published: November 2007

How formation of the front and rear of a cell are coordinated during cell polarization in migrating cells is not well understood. Time-lapse microscopy of live primary chick embryo heart fibroblasts expressing GFP-actin show that, prior to cell polarization, polymerized actin in the cell body reorganizes to form oriented actin-filament bundles spanning the entire cell body. Within an average of 5 minutes of oriented actin bundles forming, localized cell-edge retraction initiates at either the side or at one end of the newly formed bundles and then elaborates around the nearest end of the bundles to form the cell rear, the first visual break in cell symmetry. Localized net protrusion occurs at the opposing end of the bundles to form the cell front and lags formation of the rear of the cell. Consequently, cells acquire full polarity and start to migrate in the direction of the long axis of the bundles, as previously documented for already migrating cells. When ADF/cofilin family protein activity or actin-filament disassembly is specifically blocked during cell polarization, reorganization of polymerized actin to form oriented actin-filament bundles in the cell body fails, and formation of the cell rear and front is inhibited. We conclude that formation of oriented actin-filament bundles in the cell body requires ADF/cofilin family proteins, and is an early event needed to coordinate the spatial location of the cell rear and front during fibroblast polarization.
An Interaction Approach to County/District Relationships
Authors: Moore Nicholas , Leach Steve
Published: November 2007

This article attempts to develop a theoretical framework which will be of use in explaining inter- and intra- county variations in the quality of county/district relationships. It reviews the current meagre literature on inter-organisational relationships, and emphasises the limitations of Evan’s model. An alternative framework is developed by bringing together and reapplying a series of concepts from the literature on intra-organisational co-ordination, the relationship of an organisation to its environment, and the role of choice and individual action in understanding how organisations work. The framework is illustrated by examples from both shire and metropolitan county/district situations. Finally, the framework is used as a basis for the discussion of the likely impact of the Government’s ‘Organic Change’ proposals.
Subjective Social Indicators and Urban Social Policy
Authors: Knox Paul L.
Published: November 2007

Social indicators are now an important component of policy making at all scales. Conventional, ‘objective’ indicators are persistently hampered, however, by problems connected with weighting and synthesizing data. Subjective indicators, based on measures of people’s hopes, frustrations, satisfactions and sense of well-being, offer a potentially more sensitive yardstick of personal and community well-being. This note seeks to clarify the issues, problems and potential associated with the use of such indicators in the context of urban and regional planning, with particular emphasis on the extent to which the information conveyed by subjective indicators may either complement or duplicate information derived from conventional indicators. The nature of subjective indicators is outlined, and the case for using subjective indicators in formulating urban social policy is presented. Their use in studies of urban welfare is reviewed, and an evaluation is given of the practical problems involved in using subjective indicators.
The Implementation of Urban and Regional Planning Policies
Authors: Lewis Janet , Flynn Rob
Published: November 2007

This article is the central section of a report written for the Department of the Environment on the theme of implementing urban and regional planning. The Department’s concern was to have a framework within which to sponsor a programme of research on this topic. Interviews were carried out with staff within the department, local authorities and other statutory bodies. The meaning of the term ‘implementation’ is first discussed and is followed by an outline of the planning policy system as it relates to the study. A ‘framework for action’ is then proposed and discussed with examples drawn from the interview material. The importance of the different modes of action available to individuals and organisations trying to ‘get things done’ is particularly emphasised.
‘Why Do We Need to Keep This in Print? It's on the Web’: A Review of Electronic Archiving Issues and Problems
Authors: Warner Dorothy
Published: November 2007

Indeed! It may be on the web today, but is there a plan in place to ensure that it will be there in twenty or more years? Probably not. In the haste to make information available electronically there are few agreed-upon plans for the preservation of digital information and much has already been lost. The particular concern of preserving electronic state government documents recently became an issue for our State Documents Interest Group of the Documents Association of New Jersey (DANJ) when we recognized not only that fewer documents are produced in print format but also that there is not a state plan to preserve the electronic documents being produced. For several years the Division of Elections in New Jersey eliminated the webpage that gave the previous year's election lists and results. Fortunately, the concern from those using the information prompted the Division of Elections to begin to retain this information. But the earlier information is gone. Recently, Public Utilities created a new webpage and eliminated virtually all of the documents that had existed on the earlier page. At least one agency replaces its old annual report with the new one. The predicament in New Jersey is not an isolated one. Our response was to research the issue of digital preservation and to present a report of recommendations to the State Librarian. The report, edited by Sue Lyons (2001, available at the DANJ website www.danj.org/DANJ), provides a thoughtful overview of the concerns and problems of digital archiving, offering recommendations for a cooperative process and plan by the state. In the report, Lyons cites several examples of lost digital information, including data from the Viking mission to Mars and all computerized data from a New York study mapping land use and environmental data throughout the state.
Metadata Made Simpler: A Guide for Libraries by Gail Hodge
Authors: Smith Steve
Published: November 2007

The National Information Standards Organization (NISO) is the premiere standards-issuing body for libraries, archives, and publishers (or for any entity producing, publishing, storing, or preserving information). NISO, jointly with American National Standards Institute (ANSI), is responsible for all Z39.xx standards, including such favorites as Z39.50 (Information Retrieval: Application Service Definition & Protocol Specification), Z39.66 (Durable Hardcover Binding for Books), and Z39.48 (Permanence of Paper for Publications and Documents in Libraries and Archives); recently they've produced such destined-to-become-classics as Z39.77 (Guidelines for Information About Preservation Products), Z39.85 (Dublin Core Metadata Element Set), and Z39.86 (Specifications for the Digital Talking Book). In addition to issuing formal standards, NISO also produces valuable technical reports (e.g., William K. Wilson's Environmental Guidelines for the Storage of Paper Records) and white papers (e.g., Clifford Lynch's The Case for New Economic Models to Support Standardization Efforts).
A Film is a Film is a Film – or is It? … Microfilms – How to Evaluate for Use and Purchase
Authors: Dodson Suzanne Cates
Published: November 2007

You don't need to know much about microfilms in order to use them wisely, but to many people still, a film is a film is a film – and the cheapest one often wins by virtue of its cost. I have used an analogy many times–but not enough times, I guess. To repeat myself yet again, everyone knows what a fabric is, but everyone also knows that fabrics appear in many manifestations. We have cotton, or silk, or linen, or wool, for example. We also have a host of manmade fibres from which to choose. We can make sails out of cotton canvas and evening gowns out of silk taffeta. We can use whatever fibre and fabric made from that fibre (or combination of fibres – cotton and lycra, for example) we choose, but we also know that each fabric has its own characteristics and its use will be dictated by those characteristics.
Kodak's “Reliable Image” Seminar
Authors: Bruno Thomas
Published: November 2007

In their continued support of the micrographic marketplace, Kodak offers a free seminar on the best practices and production of microfilm and microforms for librarians, micropublishers, and others who use Kodak microfilm. This seminar is provided at the end-user's request and is typically held on-site at the user's microfilm production facility. The seminar is usually six hours in length. The focus of the seminar is to aid in the understanding of the history of microfilm and micrographic technology, with the goal of implementing procedures and practices that result in consistent “Reliable Images” on microfilm. See Figure 1 at the end of the article for a complete Seminar outline.
Time Is Money: Impacts of Usability at a Call Center
Authors: Bond Chris
Published: November 2007

FEATURE AT A GLANCE: This article describes how improvements to a customer information system at an electric utility resulted in reductions in call processing times of about 1 minute per call. This is significant, given that the company receives more than 1 million calls each year. As a direct result of the reduced call times, the call center could conserve resources and reduce the need to hire and train additional staff (as many as 10 new employees each year). The cost of making usability improvements was recouped in less than 3 months.
Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 5 Modulates Nociceptive Plasticity via Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase–Kv4.2 Signaling in Spinal Cord Dorsal Horn Neurons
Authors: Hu Hui-Juan , Alter Benedict J. , Carrasquillo Yarimar , Qiu Chang-Sheng , Gereau Robert W.
Published: November 2007

Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) play important roles in the modulation of nociception. The group I mGluRs (mGlu1 and mGlu5) modulate nociceptive plasticity via activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. We reported recently that the K+channel Kv4.2 subunit underlies A-type K+currents in the spinal cord dorsal horn and is modulated by the ERK signaling pathway. Kv4.2-mediated A-type currents are important determinants of dorsal horn neuronal excitability and central sensitization that underlies hypersensitivity after tissue injury. In the present study, we demonstrate that ERK-mediated phosphorylation of Kv4.2 is downstream of mGlu5 activation in spinal cord dorsal horn neurons. Activation of group I mGluRs inhibited Kv4.2-mediated A-type K+currents and increased neuronal excitability in dorsal horn neurons. These effects were mediated by activation of mGlu5, but not mGlu1, and were dependent on ERK activation. Analysis of Kv4.2 phosphorylation site mutants clearly identified S616 as the residue responsible for mGlu5–ERK-dependent modulation of A-type currents and excitability. Furthermore, nociceptive behavior induced by activation of spinal group I mGluRs was impaired in Kv4.2 knock-out mice, demonstrating that,in vivo, modulation of Kv4.2 is downstream of mGlu5 activation. Altogether, our results indicate that activation of mGlu5 leads to ERK-mediated phosphorylation and modulation of Kv4.2-containing potassium channels in dorsal horn neurons. This modulation may contribute to nociceptive plasticity and central sensitization associated with chronic inflammatory pain conditions.
Dopaminergic Modulation of Spinal Neuronal Excitability
Authors: Han Pengcheng , Nakanishi Stan T. , Tran Michelle A. , Whelan Patrick J.
Published: November 2007

It is well recognized that dopamine (DA) can modulate spinal networks and reflexes. DA fibers and receptors are present in the spinal cord, and evidence for DA release within the spinal cord has been published. A critical gap is the lack of data regarding dopaminergic modulation of intrinsic and synaptic properties of motoneurons and ventral interneurons in the mammalian spinal cord. In this paper, we address this issue by examining the cellular mechanisms underlying the excitatory effect of DA on motor systems. We examine the effects of DA on two classes of cells important for motor control, motoneurons and Hb9 interneurons, located in lamina VIII. We show that DA can boost excitability in spinal motoneurons by decreasing the first spike latency and the afterhyperpolarization. Collectively, this leads to an increase in the frequency–current slope likely attributable to modulation ofIAand SKCa(small-conductance calcium-activated K+channel) currents. We also demonstrate that DA increases glutamatergic transmission onto motoneurons. Our data also suggest that DA stabilizes the rhythmic output of conditionally bursting interneurons. Collectively, these data indicate that DA has widespread actions on intrinsic and synaptic properties of ventral spinal neurons.
Modulation of Acid-Sensing Ion Channel Activity by Nitric Oxide
Authors: Cadiou Hervé , Studer Milena , Jones Nicholas G. , Smith Ewan St. J. , Ballard Angela , McMahon Stephen B. , McNaughton Peter A.
Published: November 2007

Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) are a class of ion channels activated by extracellular protons and are believed to mediate the pain caused by tissue acidosis. Although ASICs have been widely studied, little is known about their regulation by inflammatory mediators. Here, we provide evidence that nitric oxide (NO) potentiates the activity of ASICs. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were performed on neonatal rat cultured dorsal root ganglion neurons and on ASIC isoforms expressed in CHO cells. The NO donorS-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) potentiates proton-gated currents in DRG neurons and proton-gated currents in CHO cells expressing each of the acid-sensitive ASIC subunits. Modulators of the cGMP/PKG pathway had no effect on the potentiation, but in excised patches from CHO cells expressing ASIC2a, the potentiation could be reversed by externally applied reducing agents. NO therefore has a direct external effect on the ASIC ion channel, probably through oxidization of cysteine residues. Complementary psychophysiological studies were performed using iontophoresis of acidic solutions through the skin of human volunteers. Topical application of the NO donor glyceryl trinitrate significantly increased acid-evoked pain but did not affect heat or mechanical pain thresholds. ASICs may therefore play an important role in the pain associated with metabolic stress and inflammation, where both tissue acidosis and a high level of NO are present.
Cdc42 Regulates Cofilin during the Establishment of Neuronal Polarity
Authors: Garvalov Boyan K. , Flynn Kevin C. , Neukirchen Dorothee , Meyn Liane , Teusch Nicole , Wu Xunwei , Brakebusch Cord , Bamburg James R. , Bradke Frank
Published: November 2007

The establishment of polarity is an essential process in early neuronal development. Although a number of molecules controlling neuronal polarity have been identified, genetic evidence about their physiological roles in this process is mostly lacking. We analyzed the consequences of loss of Cdc42, a central regulator of polarity in multiple systems, on the polarization of mammalian neurons. Genetic ablation of Cdc42 in the brain led to multiple abnormalities, including striking defects in the formation of axonal tracts. Neurons from the Cdc42 null animals sprouted neurites but had a strongly suppressed ability to form axons bothin vivoand in culture. This was accompanied by disrupted cytoskeletal organization, enlargement of the growth cones, and inhibition of filopodial dynamics. Axon formation in the knock-out neurons was rescued by manipulation of the actin cytoskeleton, indicating that the effects of Cdc42 ablation are exerted through modulation of actin dynamics. In addition, the knock-outs showed a specific increase in the phosphorylation (inactivation) of the Cdc42 effector cofilin. Furthermore, the active, nonphosphorylated form of cofilin was enriched in the axonal growth cones of wild-type, but not of mutant, neurons. Importantly, cofilin knockdown resulted in polarity defects quantitatively analogous to the ones seen after Cdc42 ablation. We conclude that Cdc42 is a key regulator of axon specification, and that cofilin is a physiological downstream effector of Cdc42 in this process.
Optical properties of transparent alkali gallium silicate glass-ceramics containing Ni2+-doped β-Ga2O3 nanocrystals
Authors: Wu Botao , Qiu Jianrong , Jiang Nan , Zhou Shifeng , Ren Jinjun , Chen Danping , Jiang Xiongwei , Zhu Congshan
Published: November 2007

Broadband near-infrared (IR) luminescence in transparent alkali gallium silicate glass-ceramics containing Ni2+-doped β-Ga2O3 nanocrystals was observed. This broadband emission could be attributed to the 3T2g (3F) → 3A2g (3F) transition of octahedral Ni2+ ions in glass-ceramics. The full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of the near-IR luminescence and fluorescent lifetime of the glass-ceramic doped with 0.10 mol% NiO were 260 nm and ∼1220 μs, respectively. It is expected that transparent Ni2+-doped β-Ga2O3 glass-ceramics with this broad near-IR emission and long fluorescent lifetime have potential applications as super-broadband optical amplification media.
Atomic layer deposition of HfO2, Al2O3, and HfAlOx using O3 and metal(diethylamino) precursors
Authors: Katamreddy Rajesh , Inman Ronald , Jursich Gregory , Soulet Axel , Takoudis Christos
Published: November 2007

Tetrakis-diethylamino hafnium (TDEAH), tris-diethylamino aluminum (TDEAA), and ozone were used for the atomic layer deposition (ALD) of HfO2, Al2O3, and HfAlOx films. The ALD rates were measured to be 1.1 Å/cycle for HfO2 and 1.3 Å/cycle for Al2O3. The ALD temperature windows were found to be between 200 and 325 °C for TDEAA, and between 200 and 275 °C for TDEAH. The overlap of these ALD windows between 200 and 275 °C is critical for ALD of the composite film, HfAlOx. In addition to the overlapping ALD temperature windows, the two metal precursors have similar thermal characteristics, as shown by TGA and differential scanning calorimetry. As-deposited films and films postannealed at 600 and 800 °C films were analyzed using Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and x-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. FTIR spectra revealed interfacial oxide growth during deposition of both HfO2 and Al2O3 whose thickness increased with annealing temperature. The FTIR data also indicated hydroxyl and nitrate groups in the films; these species were removed after annealing in Ar at a temperature of ⩾600 °C. Both FTIR and XRD results indicated the crystallization of pure HfO2 after annealing at temperatures as low as 600 °C. On the other hand, pure Al2O3 remained amorphous after annealing at temperatures up to 800 °C. XRD data of the composite HfAlOx film show that films deposited by alternating five cycles of HfO2 and one cycle of Al2O3 remained amorphous after annealing at 600 °C. Rutherford backscattering analysis of HfAlOx deposited with a varied number of alternating HfO2 and Al2O3 cycles demonstrated a strong correlation between the cyclic dosage of TDEAA and TDEAH and the film composition.
Control of nanosilver sintering attained through organic binder burnout
Authors: Bai John G. , Lei Thomas G. , Calata Jesus N. , Lu Guo-Quan
Published: November 2007

Control of the low-temperature sintering of nanosilver particles was attained by dispersing and stabilizing nanosilver particles into a paste form using the selected organic binder systems. As demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), with the existing binder systems, undesirable premature coalescence of nanosilver particles was prevented and the metastable structure was retained until the binder burned out at relatively higher temperatures. Enhanced densification was achieved upon the binder burnout because at the relatively higher temperatures the densification mechanisms, e.g., grain-boundary or lattice diffusion, become more dominant. We propose that the onset of sintering, extent of densification, and final grain size can be controlled by either the size of the initial nanosilver particles or the binder systems with different burnout characteristics.
Effect of residual stress on the fracture strength of columnar TiN films
Authors: Suresha S.J. , Gunda R. , Jayaram V. , Biswas S.K.
Published: November 2007

The intercolumnar fracture strength of a columnar TiN film was deconvoluted by nanoindentation load-displacement curves. The columnar boundary strength of such films strongly depends on the amount of residual stress present in the film. The residual stress of the coating was modified by plastically stretching the substrate. Indentation studies on the columnar TiN coating as a function of residual stress reveals that the column sliding stress diminishes with residual stress, suggesting that the presence of a high compressive stress substantially improves the fracture strength of a columnar TiN film. True film hardness on the other hand does not change.