cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
8.MReV Mechanics ReView MITx on edX Course Report - 2013 Spring

This report describes 8.MReV: Mechanics ReView, one of the first 11 courses offered by MITx on edX, a platform for delivering massive open online courses (MOOCs). Offered in the Summer of 2013, 8.MReV offers a second look at introductory Newtonian Mechanics, incorporating research pedagogy developed by the RELATE education group at MIT. This report describes the course structure, in terms of the number of basic e-text, auto-graded problems, and video components. Following a methodology established for analysis of the first 17 HarvardX and MITx courses (Ho et al, HarvardX and MITx: The first year of open online courses), course registrants are described in terms of viewed, explored, and certified sub-populations, together with demographics. The diversity of student activity in the course, and the persistence of student interactions with the courseware, are addressed. The report concludes with descriptions of special features in 8.MReV, including innovative pedagogy and pre-post testing.
On the Design of Learning Objects Classifiers

An important limitation of learning object repositories is that they frequently provide incomplete or imperfect information to describe the resources that they index. A form of dealing with this limitation is to categorize the learning objects in a taxonomy that allows main themes to be identified that cover each of these resources. In this paper, we will explore two techniques to categorize learning objects: language models and logistic regression models. Experiments show that the logistic regression method obtains results with high precision.
Comparison of glutathione peroxidase 1 and peroxiredoxin 6 in protection against oxidative stress in the mouse lung

Peroxiredoxin 6 (Prdx6) and cytosolic GSH peroxidase (GPx1), both GSH-dependent peroxidases, were compared for the effects of their knockout on injury and lipid peroxidation in: (a) lungs of mice exposed to 0.85 or 1.0atm O(2), (b) isolated perfused mouse lungs exposed to 5mM tert-butylhydroperoxide (t-BOOH) or 1mM paraquat, and (c) primary mouse pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells exposed to 50muM t-BOOH. Derangements in GPx1 null were similar or slightly greater than in wild type for all parameters in the various models of oxidant stress, whereas Prdx6 null showed markedly increased effects. GSH peroxidase activity with phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxide as substrate in GPx1-null lung homogenate was decreased only slightly vs wild type, whereas activity in Prdx6-null lungs was decreased by ~95%, indicating that Prdx6 is the major enzyme for reduction of oxidized lung phospholipids. Expression levels of oxidant-related genes measured with a PCR-based gene array indicated no significant differences between the Prdx6 and the GPx1 null except for the target genes and IL-19. Thus, Prdx6-null mice are significantly more sensitive to oxidant stress compared to GPx1 null, suggesting that scavenging of phospholipid hydroperoxides by Prdx6 plays a major role in lung antioxidant defense.
Auxiliary components for kilopixel transition edge sensor arrays

Abstract We have fabricated transition edge sensor bolometer focal plane arrays sensitive to mm-submillimeter (0.1–3 THz) radiation for the Atacama Cosmology Telescope (ACT), which will probe the cosmic microwave background at 145, 215, and 280 GHz. Central to the performance of these bolometers is a set of auxiliary resistive components. Here we discuss shunt resistors, which allow for tight optimization of bolometer time constant and sensitivity. Our shunt resistors consist of AuPd strips grown atop interdigitated superconducting MoN x wires. We can tailor the shunt resistance by altering the dimensions of the AuPd strips and the pitch and width of the MoN x wires and can fabricate all of the shunts necessary for a kilopixel focal plane bolometer array on a single 4″ wafer. By modeling the resistance dependence of these parameters, a variety of different 0.75 ± 0.05 mOhm shunt resistors have been fabricated. This variety includes different shunts which have MoN x wires with wire width equal to 1.5 and 10 μm and pitch equal to 4.5 and 26 μm, respectively. Our ability to set the resistance of the shunts hints at the scalability of our design. We have also integrated a SiO 2 capping layer into our shunt resistor fabrication scheme, which inhibits metal corrosion and eventual degradation of the shunt. Consequently, their robustness coupled with their high packing density makes these resistive components attractive for future kilopixel detector arrays.
Adaptation to steady light by intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells

Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) are recently discovered photoreceptors in the mammalian eye. These photoreceptors mediate primarily nonimage visual functions, such as pupillary light reflex and circadian photoentrainment, which are generally expected to respond to the absolute light intensity. The classical rod and cone photoreceptors, on the other hand, mediate image vision by signaling contrast, accomplished by adaptation to light. Experiments by others have indicated that the ipRGCs do, in fact, light-adapt. We found the same but, in addition, have now quantified this light adaptation for the M1 ipRGC subtype. Interestingly, in incremental-flash-on-background experiments, the ipRGC’s receptor current showed a flash sensitivity that adapted in background light according to the Weber–Fechner relation, well known to describe the adaptation behavior of rods and cones. Part of this light adaptation by ipRGCs appeared to be triggered by a Ca2+ influx, in that the flash response elicited in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ showed a normal rising phase but a slower decay phase, resulting in longer time to peak and higher sensitivity. There is, additionally, a prominent Ca2+-independent component of light adaptation not typically seen in rods and cones or in invertebrate rhabdomeric photoreceptors.
Novel Cs-Free GaN Photocathodes

We report on a novel GaN photocathode structure that eliminates the use of Cs for photocathode activation. Development of such a photocathode structure promises reduced cost and complexity of the device, potentially with stable operation for a longer time. Device simulation studies suggest that deposition of Si delta-doped GaN on p-GaN templates induces sharp downward energy band bending at the surface, assisting in achieving effective negative electron affinity for GaN photocathodes without the use of Cs. A series of experiments has been performed to optimize the quality of the Si delta-doped layer to minimize the emission threshold of the device. This report includes significant observations relating the dependence of device properties such as emission threshold, quantum efficiency, and surface morphology on the Si incorporation in the Si delta-doped layer. An optimum Si incorporation has been observed to provide the minimum emission threshold of 4.1 eV for the discussed Cs-free GaN photocathodes. Photoemission (PE), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and secondary-ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) have been performed to study the effect of growth conditions on device performance.
Gender: a possible determinant in dosing of dermatologic drugs--an overview.

The role of gender in pharmacokinetics could play a significant role in tailoring HIV and other drug regimens. Here we investigate sex as a factor in saquinavir pharmacokinetics. The HIV-positive women who use saquinavir in combination with other protease inhibitors frequently demonstrate higher saquinavir concentrations than their male counterparts. The majority of the data indicates that the root of women's higher saquinavir concentrations is not inherent to their gender. Rather, extenuating factors associated with HIV play a prominent role in the observed difference between men and women's pharmacokinetic parameters. The source of observed differences in saquinavir pharmacokinetics could not be definitively traced to CYP3A, the enzyme responsible for saquinavir's metabolism or drug transporters. Hormonal changes associated with HIV infection together with concurrent use of other protease inhibitors could help explain development of sex differences. These findings can be used to further investigate when...
Theory Synthesis in International Relations: Real Not Metaphysical

Theory synthesis is not only possible and desirable but is constitutive of any coherent understanding of international relations as a progressive and empirical social science. Numerous interesting proposals exist for formulating and empirically testing multitheoretical propositions about concrete problems in world politics. Below the reader will find a set of basic principles that should underlie testable theory syntheses. Yet other contributors to this forum—Friedrich Kratochwil, Yosef Lapid, Iver Neumann, and Steve Smith—do not share this openness to theory synthesis; their views range from deep skepticism to outright rejection. The real issue between us is whether pluralism among existing theories ought to be preserved for its own sake, as these colleagues believe, or whether theories ought to be treated as instruments to be subjected to empirical testing and theory synthesis, as this author maintains. Theory synthesis is occurring. Many of the most salient contributions to international relations theory in the past two decades rest on it. Robert Keohane (1984) synthesizes realist (hegemonic stability) and regime theories to explain postwar cooperation. Nearly every member of the recent generation of security theorists, led by Stephen Walt (1987), Jack Snyder (1991), Stephen Van Evera (1990/1991), and Barry Buzan and his colleagues (1993), combine power and intentions to explain alliance formation, imperialism, war, and the global structure. Bruce Russett and John O'Neal (2001) link liberal and institutionalist factors to explain the peace among liberal states. Martha Finnemore and Kathryn Sikkink (1998) summarize much recent work, including many European contributions, combining rationalist and constructivist elements to explain the evolution of international human rights norms. Theory synthesis is particularly important for those who believe, with Kratochwil and this author, that international relations scholarship ought to be problem as well as theory-driven. The complexity of most large events in world politics precludes plausible unicausal …
1179 MODULATION OF SOMATOMEDIN RECEPTOR SITES IN GROWTH HORMONE-TREATED HYPOPITUITARY DWARFS

1179 MODULATION OF SOMATOMEDIN RECEPTOR SITES IN GROWTH HORMONE-TREATED HYPOPITUITARY DWARFS
Social and Psychological Resources and Adaptation

Psychology has increasingly turned to the study of psychosocial resources in the examination of well-being. How resources are being studied and resource models that have been proffered are consider...
Complete Nucleotide Sequence and Analysis of a Novel Human Papillomavirus (HPV 84) Genome Cloned by an Overlapping PCR Method

Molecular diagnosis of human papillomaviruses (HPVs) in cervicovaginal samples reveals a plethora of known and novel HPV genomes. We describe the use of an overlapping PCR method to clone and analyze the complete genome of HPV 84 from cervicovaginal cells obtained from a 21-year-old Caucasian female with a normal Pap smear. The 7948-bp complete nucleotide sequence of HPV 84 was determined from five overlapping PCR products by sequence walking. A BLAST homology search demonstrated that HPV 84 was most closely related to HPV 61 (89%), HPV 72 (86%), and HPV 83 (85%) by nucleotide sequence analysis of the L1 open reading frame, placing it in the HPV genome homology group A3. Previously, this virus had been identified as Pap155. Based on extensive epidemiological data, HPV 84 is a highly prevalent genital papillomavirus primarily detected in normal and HIV-infected women.
Metal matrices to optimize ion beam currents for accelerator mass spectrometry

Abstract We report experiments designed to help optimize accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) of 10Be (in the form of BeO) for geochronologic and geomorphologic applications. In many applications, the precision of AMS is restricted by counting statistics for 10Be, which are in turn limited by the intensity of BeO− beam currents. We show that ion beam currents depend strongly on the metal matrix in which BeO is dispersed, on the matrix:BeO ratio, and for some metals, such as Ag, on the depth to which the sample is packed in the AMS cathode. Typical instantaneous Be3+ currents (μA) produced by the LLNL CAMS Cs sputter ion source and measured in a Faraday cup after the accelerator are 7.6 for samples in Ag, 19.9 in Ta, 20.9 in Mo, 21.1 in W, 25.5 in Nb and 27.5 in V. The AMS counting efficiency (ions detected per Be atom loaded) for a routine analysis time (300 s) for equimolar mixtures of BeO and matrix is in the range 2 × 10−4–6 × 10−4 in the order V > Ta > Mo > W > Nb > Ag. Additionally, an inverse linear correlation between electron affinity of the matrix and beam current is observed, suggesting that the propensity of the metal matrix to attach electrons impacts the ion signal. These data and the process inferences they allow will provide for significant improvements in detection limits for a widely applied geological dating and tracing technique.
Low‐Temperature, Single Step, Reactive Sintering of Lead Magnesium Niobate Using Mg(OH)2‐Coated Nb2O5 Powders

A low-temperature, single step, reactive sintering method for Pb(Mg 1/3 Nb 2/3 )O 3 (PMN) and PMN-PbTiO 3 (PMN-PT) processing was developed based on the coating of Mg(OH) 2 on Nb 2 O 5 . This method simplified the processing of PMN and PMN-PT to a single step of heat-treatment and decreased the sintering temperature to 1000°C. It was found that the pyrochlore phase formation reaction at 500°C reduced the particle size to 130 nm. The overlap of the pyrochlor-perovskite phase transformation between 700° and 900°C and the densification process between 800° and 1000°C improved the sintering process. These two factors were the major reasons of the low temperature sintering.
On the Melvin–Morton–Rozansky conjecture

We prove a conjecture stated by Melvin and Morton (and elucidated further by Rozansky) saying that the Alexander–Conway polynomial of a knot can be read from some of the coefficients of the Jones polynomials of cables of that knot (i.e., coefficients of the “colored” Jones polynomial). We first reduce the problem to the level of weight systems using a general principle, which may be of some independent interest, and which sometimes allows to deduce equality of Vassiliev invariants from the equality of their weight systems. We then prove the conjecture combinatorially on the level of weight systems. Finally, we prove a generalization of the Melvin–Morton–Rozansky (MMR) conjecture to knot invariants coming from arbitrary semi-simple Lie algebras. As side benefits we discuss a relation between the Conway polynomial and immanants and a curious formula for the weight system of the colored Jones polynomial.
Modeling of grid cell activity demonstrates in vivo entorhinal 'look-ahead' properties.

Abstract Recent in vivo data show ensemble activity in medial entorhinal neurons that demonstrates ‘look-ahead’ activity, decoding spatially to reward locations ahead of a rat deliberating at a choice point while performing a cued, appetitive T-Maze task. To model this experiment’s look-ahead results, we adapted previous work that produced a model where scans along equally probable directions activated place cells, associated reward cells, grid cells, and persistent spiking cells along those trajectories. Such look-ahead activity may be a function of animals performing scans to reduce ambiguity while making decisions. In our updated model, look-ahead scans at the choice point can activate goal-associated reward and place cells, which indicate the direction the virtual rat should turn at the choice point. Hebbian associations between stimulus and reward cell layers are learned during training trials, and the reward and place layers are then used during testing to retrieve goal-associated cells based on cue presentation. This system creates representations of location and associated reward information based on only two inputs of heading and speed information which activate grid cell and place cell layers. We present spatial and temporal decoding of grid cell ensembles as rats are tested with perfect and imperfect stimuli. Here, the virtual rat reliably learns goal locations through training sessions and performs both biased and unbiased look-ahead scans at the choice point. Spatial and temporal decoding of simulated medial entorhinal activity indicates that ensembles are representing forward reward locations when the animal deliberates at the choice point, emulating in vivo results.
The preparation and electrochemistry of cysteine-ester oxovanadium(IV) complexes

Abstract An improved synthesis of VO(CysOCH3)2, (CysOCH3  the anion of cysteine methyl ester), is reported, as is an analogous preparation of VO(CysOCH2CH3)2, (CysOCH2CH3  the anion of cysteine ethyl ester). These are the first two examples of isolated vanadium-cysteine compounds. The oxidation of VO(CysOCH3)2 in DMSO is a reversible one electron change at 0.24 V versus SCE followed by a rapid chemical reaction which produces a stable vanadium(V) species. This species is reduced back to the vanadium(IV) complex at −1.30 V. The electrochemistry of VO(Cys-OCH2CH3)2 is nearly identical to that of the methyl ester compound.
Protein synthesis in wing disks of Galleria mellonella: effects of ecdysone and fat body in vitro

Abstract The effects of alpha-ecdysone, beta-ecdysone and fat body on protein synthesis in Galleria mellonella wing disks cultured in vitro were investigated. The ecdysones stimulated protein synthesis, but did not maintain it at the higher levels. Fat body enhanced the response of disks to alpha-ecdysone, but this effect was not related to stimulation of morphogenesis by fat body.
Electron microscopy of G-banded human mitotic chromosomes.

Trypsin-treated human metaphase chromosomes stained with Giemsa and uranyl acetate showed clear, reproducible band structures under the transmission electron microscope (TEM). The banding pattern observed with TEM corresponded very closely to the G-band pattern visualized by light microscopy. The TEM images were used for karyotype analyses. Trypsin-treated chromosomes stained with uranyl acetate alone also showed clear G-bands under TEM. Shadow casting in addition to uranyl acetate staining revealed more structural detail of the chromosomes. Chromosome fibers, 200 A–300 A in diameter, were observed in the interband regions. Most chromosomes showed the major G-bands under the higher TEM magnification wit0out any trypsin treatment.
Teachers' perception of a school mental health project

Abstract Teachers from 11 participating schools evaluated a new, preventively oriented school mental health program on four, 7-point rating scales reflecting both communication flow and judged program effectiveness. Overall, expressed attitudes were positive, more so in settings which had more assigned mental health professional time.
Superficially porous silica microspheres for fast high-performance liquid chromatography of macromolecules.

Abstract Very fast reversed-phase separations of biomacromolecules are performed using columns made with superficially porous silica microsphere column packings (“Poroshell”). These column packings consist of ultra-pure “biofriendly” silica microspheres composed of solid cores and thin outer shells with uniform pores. The excellent kinetic properties of these new column packings allow stable, high-resolution gradient chromatography of polypeptides, proteins, nucleic acids, DNA fragments, etc. in a fraction of the time required for conventional separations. Contrasted with
Hydroxyurea Triggers Cellular Responses that Actively Cause Bacterial Cell Death

In this issue of Molecular Cell, Davies et al. (2009) work out a sequence of active cellular events that lead to the death of Escherichia coli in the presence of the drug hydroxyurea.
Hepatic Hydatid Cyst: A Rare Cause of Recurrent Pancreatitis

A case of pancreatitis secondary to a hepatic hydatid cyst is illustrated together with its preoperative imaging and intraoperative appearance. Cystobiliary communication is a common complication of large hydatid cysts, and episodes of recurrent pancreatitis resulting from passage of cyst contents down the biliary tract are rarely described. The clinical manifestations, diagnostic workup, and surgical management options of echinococcal-related pancreatitis are discussed, and a review of the literature is provided.
Energy input during friction stir spot welding

Abstract Friction stir spot welding is performed on thin plates of an aluminum alloy. This paper presents the results on how the number of tool rotations affects the quality of the resulting spot weld. Different combinations of rotation rate and dwell time are investigated. A linear relationship was found to exist between the number of tool rotations completed during the spot weld and the resulting tensile shear strength. Spot welds that only completed 10 rotations were 177% stronger than those created at 50 tool rotations. The energy generated during the welding operation was quantified and also found to have a linear relationship with tensile shear strength. A modified open-loop position control system is proposed that monitors and limits the energy generated during friction stir spot welding by adjusting the dwell time.
Differential Responses to Cyclic Phase Variations in Compound Sounds

Resume On montre que les conclusions des investigateurs anterieurs a l'egard de l'effet auditif de varier la phase entre les composants d'un son compose ou il se trouve des sons partiels en relation harmonique sont ambigues, puisque les differentes techniques employees n'ont pas tenu compte (a) des composants specifiques du son lesquels ont varie et de la maniere de cette variation, (b) de la relation entre la vitesse de la variation dans les discriminations et la vitesse du changement de la phase, et (c) des directions relatives du changement dans les composants. Des experiences avec l “udio-phaser” montrent qu'avec un composant binaire 2:3, ayant l'harmonique tres faible 4 et la frequence differentielle au “ratio level” I, chaque composant varie en intensite (quelques-uns ont identifie le changement comme hauteur), pendant que la phase est changee entre les fondamentaux 2 et 3. Sur un graphique synthetique des discriminations faites par seize sujets on montre que: pour chaque changement cyclique de phas...
A TYPE SPECIFIC SUBSTANCE DISTINCT FROM THE SPECIFIC CARBOHYDRATE IN PNEUMOCOCCUS TYPE I

1. Evidence has been presented for the existence of a substance distinct from the specific carbohydrate in the autolytic products of Pneumococcus Type I. 2. The substance reacts specifically by precipitating homologous antiserum which either occurs naturally without antibody against the specific carbohydrate or has been deprived of that antibody artificially. 3. In guinea pigs passively sensitized with such antisera the homologous autolysate containing the substance alone produces typical lethal anaphylactic shock. 4. In weakly alkaline solution the substance is destroyed by boiling. In weakly acid solution it resists a temperature of 100°C. for at least ½ hour. Autoclaving for 1 hour at 15 pounds pressure in either acid or alkaline solution destroys its activity as precipitinogen. 5. The substance is resistant to peptic digestion. 6. The chemical nature and the possible identification of the substance as a haptene have been discussed.
Post-war Japan in photographs Erasing the past and building the future in the Japan Times

Through a discourse analysis of news photographs published after the end of the Second World War, this study investigates how Japan’s new position as a defeated and occupied nation was visually negotiated in the two decades following the war in the pages of one major national Japanese English-language newspaper. It addresses, in particular, how symbolic representations of the Japanese nation were (re)defined and reinterpreted in these photographs in the aftermath of the war under the significant influence of occupation leaders eager to reorganize the Japanese press system following American models. It argues that visual representations of Japan and its leaders created shortly after the war illustrate the beginnings of a process of erasure of the past and cultural reinterpretation that scholars of the Japanese cultural environment have identified as a central component of Japanese contemporary (post)modern identity.
A monograph assignment as an integrative application of evidence-based medicine and pharmacoeconomic principles.

Objective. To describe the development and assessment of monographs as an assignment to incorporate evidence-based medicine (EBM) and pharmacoeconomic principles into a third-year pharmacoeconomic ...
Enhancement of Radiative Emission using a Hyperbolic Metamaterial Nano-antenna

A hyperbolic metamaterial resonator is utilized as a nano-antenna for enhancing the radiative emission from a quantum emitter at 660 nm wavelength. Simulated power radiation enhancement up to 100 folds is demonstrated.
Josephson effect without superconductivity: realization in quantum Hall bilayers.

We show that a quantum Hall bilayer with the total filling $\ensuremath{\nu}\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}=\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}1$ should exhibit a dynamical regime similar to the flux flow in large Josephson junctions. This analogy may explain a conspicuous peak in the interlayer tunneling conductance [Phys. Rev. Lett. 84, 5808 (2000)]. The flux flow is likely to be spatiotemporally chaotic at low-bias voltage, which will manifest itself through broadband noise. The peak position can be controlled by an in-plane magnetic field.
The association of intraoperative neuraxial anesthesia on anticipated admission to the intensive care unit.

Abstract Study objective To determine whether use of intraoperative neuraxial anesthesia would decrease the frequency of ICU admission postoperatively in orthopedic patients. Design Retrospective chart review. Setting University hospital. Measurements We reviewed the data from all patients who underwent elective total knee or hip replacements from January 1, 1999 to September 30, 2000 and were preoperatively scheduled for ICU admission following surgery. We recorded patient demographic data, presence of comorbidities, intraoperative data, and location of postoperative recovery. Main results Of the 361 patients having total knee and hip replacements, 88 patients were scheduled for postoperative ICU admission. Forty-five patients underwent neuraxial (epidural or spinal) anesthesia, 38 patients received general anesthesia, and 5 patients received a combination of both neuraxial and general anesthesia. Patients who received neuraxial anesthesia had a significantly lower rate of actual ICU admission when compared with those who received intraoperative general anesthesia (11/45 or 24% vs. 22/38 or 58%, p=0.002). Patients who received neuraxial anesthesia had shorter anesthesia and surgical times when compared with those who received general anesthesia. Conclusions Intraoperative neuraxial anesthesia in higher-risk patients undergoing elective hip or knee replacement surgery is associated with a decrease in anticipated ICU admission postoperatively. A causal relationship cannot be determined with this type of study and further research is needed to better understand this association.
Spectral characteristics of several series of more unusual aromatic hydrocarbons

Abstract Energy and intensity data are presented for π-electronic transitions in several families of more unusual aromatic hydrocarbons. Emphasis is placed on certain special classes of benzene and naphthalene compounds, systems of nuclei connected by polyene chains and compounds containing five- and seven-membered rings.
Transient color sensitivity of the hill reaction during the disintegration of chloroplasts

During the disintegration of isolated chloroplasts, the declining capacity for evolving oxygen in the light becomes temporarily color sensitive. The decline of Hill reaction rates follows a different time course if measured in either blue (380 600 nm). Later, when only one-third or less of the original maximal capacity of the particular preparation is left, the rates of oxygen evolution in red or blue light become the same again.
A Stochastic Model of Supermarket Traffic Flow

A model is developed to predict area-to-area transition probabilities for traffic in supermarkets. The independent variables involve physical measures of store layout and transaction volumes at various locations. The model is fitted to data on traffic patterns in five Pittsburgh stores. The results indicate that the model is useful for traffic analysis both in a given store and for analysis of hypothetical store layouts.
Electron beam-induced reduction of higher oxides of the rare earths: A high-resolution electron microscopic study

Many compounds are unstable in the beam of the electron microscope or can be made so by increasing the beam intensity. Observations of beam-induced decompositions of the higher oxides of the rare earths were made under circumstances where the details of reduction in the vacuum of the microscope can be examined. The ζ and ι phases of praseodymium oxide (Pr9O16, Pr7O12) and the ι phase of terbium oxide were observed to reduce directly to the ф phase (R2O3), revealing the texture of intermediate stages of the reaction. The nature of the ZrO2Sc2O3 system in the same intermediate composition region is also revealed and compared to the binary rare earth systems. Particular attention is paid to the appearance of composite crystals in these semicoherent phases during reaction. From these varied observations speculations on the mechanism of the decomposition are presented.
A note on Laplacian graph eigenvalues

Abstract Let G = (V,E) be a graph on n vertices. Denote by d(v) the degree of v ∈ V and by m(v) the average of the degrees of the vertices of G adjacent to v. Then b(G) = max{m(v) + d(v): v ∈ V} is an upper bound for the Laplacian spectral radius of G; hence, n − b(GC) is a lower bound for the algebraic connectivity of G in terms of the vertex degrees of its complement.
Mydriasis and the increase in outflow of aqueous humor from the rabbit eye after cervical ganglionectomy in relation to the release of norepinephrine from the iris.

Abstract Tritiated norepinephrine administered intravenously in small single doses to albino rabbits is taken up and retained by the iris, then lost into the anterior chamber. In the early hours after cervical ganglionectomy the iris retention phenomenon exhibits a progressive decline while the release of the radioactively labeled norepinephrine is enhanced. The time course of these events could well explain the transient mydriasis and increase in outflow facility noted in the eyes of these animals after cervical ganglionectomy.
Type of search by type of library

Abstract This is a summary of the literature on users studies from a particular point of view that is convenient for specialists to refer to, and informative for non-specialists. Variation in type of search may be considered central to providing a rational explanation and justification of the variations in resource allocation in different types of libraries.
Emotional Intelligence and Graduate Medical Education

DIRECTORS OF RESIDENCY TRAINING PROGRAMS ARE now familiar with the expectations for learning and assessment within 6 core competencies, as required by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Although the field of medical education has made great strides in developing innovative curricula within the competency framework, a lack of operational definitions continues to impede progress. We propose that the scientific concept of emotional intelligence (EI) has the potential to deepen understanding of the competency: interpersonal and communication skills. Although EI may relate to the other competencies as well, notably professionalism, this Commentary focuses on describing how EI contributes to interpersonal and communication skills. The theory of EI may help critically define the specific abilities and complex processes that underlie this competency and, in turn, lead to a better understanding of how to successfully integrate the development of these skills into graduate medical training.
«Cum status ecclesie noster sit»: Florence and the council of Pisa (1409)

Pourquoi la commune de Florence a t-elle presse la papaute d'organiser un concile au debut du 15 e siecle? Le Grand Schisme a dechire la robe sans couture du Christ et a mis en grande difficulte l'Eglise catholique. Sur le plan politique, c'est toute l'Italie qui souffre des guerres engendrees par la crise: les marchands florentins ne peuvent plus commercer aisement et on apprend que de plus en plus la securite de la commune de Florence depend de la stabilite militaire en Italie centrale. Or, cet equilibre est ebranle par les devastations des belligerants menees au nom de l'unite religieuse mais finalement, tres politiques
Infant Mortality by Cause of Death: Main and Interaction Effects

We examine infant mortality among the 1980-1982 live birth cohorts in the state of Florida, specific to five categories of underlying cause of death: infections, perinatal conditions, delivery complications, congenital malformations, and sudden infant death syndrome. The gross and net effects of eight categorical and continuous independent variables, along with 11 first-order interactions, are examined with microlevel data through the use of multinomial logit regression. Findings suggest the complexity of variable effects by cause of death and indicate the simultaneous importance of biological and social factors. It is important that the pattern of interactions suggests an overall dependence of infant life chances on social circumstances. It also suggests that these effects are attenuated for some variables and causes of death at lower birth weights, probably due to advances in health care organization, access, and technology.
Autologous immunoglobulin-G binding to erythrocytes subjected to cyclical deoxygenation in vitro.

This study demonstrates that low-density metabolically replete HbSS erythrocytes suspended in heat-inactivated autologous plasma and subjected to 15 hr of cyclical deoxygenation (under nitrogen) bind significantly increased quantities of autologous IgG as compared with oxygenated paired samples. IgG binding to the erythrocyte surface was quantified by a nonequilibrium 125-iodinated protein A binding assay and by flow cytometry. Sickle cells deoxygenated 15 hr (37°C) in the presence of 2 mm calcium bound 2.2 ± 0.2 (mean ± SD)-fold more IgG (p < 0.01) than oxygenated paired samples. Sickle erythrocytes deoxygenated in 0.4 mm EDTA bound 1.7 ± 0.3 (mean ± SD)-fold more autologous IgG than oxygenated controls (p < 0.05). Indirect immunofluorescence assays also demonstrated that the relative levels of autologous IgG bound to sickle cells after 15 hr cyclical deoxygenation in the presence or absence of calcium was increased as compared with IgG binding by oxygenated paired samples. After 3 hr of cyclical deoxygenation in the presence of 2 mm calcium sickle erythrocytes exhibited a 40–60% increase in IgG binding, as compared with 10–20% increased IgG binding by paired samples treated in EDTA. These findings demonstrate that repeated morphologic sickling will increase the IgG binding capacity of low-density sickle cells, and suggest that sickling-associated alterations of the cell surface will produce new binding sites recognized by autologous IgG. These studies also show that the sickling-induced increase in IgG binding may be slightly enhanced by the presence of extracellular calcium.
Retrospective versus concurrent review on the quality of care of pediatric trauma patients.

To compare and contrast retrospective versus concurrent quality of care review processes in a Level I Trauma Center, we conducted a retrospective chart review of all pediatric trauma admissions in 1990 (n = 113) and compared it to the concurrent trauma quality assurance program for the same time period. Twenty-four percent (24%) of the patients reviewed in the retrospective study were identified by filters and reviewed through the concurrent process. In both the retrospective and concurrent review process problems in medical care problems, documentation, social and preventive elements of the case, and overall assessment of the patients' care were described. Overall, we found less than 50% agreement between the two reviews. The retrospective review identified medical care issues in 64% of cases, compared with a 44% error rate noted in the concurrent review (P < 0.07). Reviewers were more likely to note the absence of appropriate documentation, and overall assessment of the patients' care in the retrospective process (P < 0.0001). The retrospective review also highlighted issues related to the prevention of the injury and the patients' social situation, which were not considered by the concurrent review. Overall, we found the concurrent review appropriate for case by case medical management, while the retrospective review was relevant to a systems approach to the care of the injured child. To obtain a complete picture of the care of injured children, we recommend 1) a portion of charts be reviewed retrospectively in addition to ongoing concurrent review ; or 2) the concurrent review add filters that are specific to pediatric issues and overall system issues.
Financial development, crises and growth

This article examines whether the effect of crises on growth varies across different levels of financial development. Using panel dataset and dynamic panel data estimation techniques, we find that financial crises have a strong negative effect on growth. More importantly, this impact varies with the level of financial development, such that countries with better developed financial systems are adversely affected by crises whereas such effects are minimal or nonexistent in economies with less developed systems. These results are robust across various model specifications.
The Role of Amyloid Precursor Protein Processing by BACE1, the β-Secretase, in Alzheimer Disease Pathophysiology

Amyloid plaques, composed of the amyloid β-protein (Aβ), are hallmark neuropathological lesions in Alzheimer disease (AD) brain. Aβ fulfills a central role in AD pathogenesis, and reduction of Aβ levels should prove beneficial for AD treatment. Aβ generation is initiated by proteolysis of amyloid precursor protein (APP) by the β-secretase enzyme BACE1. Bace1 knockout (Bace1–/–) mice have validated BACE1 as the authentic β-secretase in vivo. BACE1 is essential for Aβ generation and represents a suitable drug target for AD therapy, especially because this enzyme is up-regulated in AD. However, although initial data indicated that Bace1–/– mice lack an overt phenotype, the BACE1-mediated processing of APP and other substrates may be important for specific biological processes. In this minireview, topics range from the initial identification of BACE1 to the fundamental knowledge gaps that remain in our understanding of this protease. We address pertinent questions such as putative causes of BACE1 elevation in AD and discuss why, nine years since the identification of BACE1, treatments that address the underlying pathological mechanisms of AD are still lacking.
Ice and water permittivities for millimeter and sub‐millimeter remote sensing applications

Recent advances in satellite remote sensing at near-millimeter and sub-millimeter wavelengths (∼100–3000 GHz) require accurate complex permittivity for ice and liquid water at these frequencies for different temperatures, especially for cold atmospheric conditions. This paper summarizes the existing experimental permittivity data in the literature and provides an updated empirical ice permittivity model for radiative transfer calculations for ground and space remote sensing experiments. Applications of this permittivity model to Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) cloud measurements are discussed. Copyright © 2004 Royal Meteorological Society
Lightness change of grays induced by change in reflectance of gray background.

A relatively small gray sample looks lighter (darker) when it is placed on darker (lighter) background. This phenomenon is an example of the well-known contrast effect. The purpose of this paper is to make a quantitative determination of the effect, and to derive a formula for it.For any given gray sample and gray surround on the left side, the observer was instructed to choose, for the different gray surround on the right, a different gray sample appearing as light as that on the left. It was found that sample lightness changes rapidly with reflectance when sample reflectance is close to that of the background. This effect was named the “crispening effect.”Several models (von Kries coefficient law, Hurvich–Jameson induction) were tried, but none of them reproduced the experimentally discovered crispening effect. A fairly successful empirical formula was developed by adding a term for the crispening effect to the formula for the induction theory.
Searching for Effectiveness and Efficiency in Conducting Functional Assessments: A Review and Proposed Process for Teachers and Other Practitioners.

There has been a tremendous increase in interest in and information about functional assessment and analysis strategies. However, teachers and other practitioners continue to struggle with choices about the most effective and efficient strategies for use in school and community settings. This article provides a review of current literature on the comparative validity of different assessment and analysis approaches. Based in part on this information, a process that can be followed by persons responsible for conducting assessments and developing and implementing behavior support plans is proposed.
Mathematics in fiction: an interdisciplinary course

This article describes my experience in creating and teaching a course on mathematics using works of fiction as the primary texts. The goal of the course was to give the students an appreciation for the beauty, power and significance of mathematics. The methods of the course are both summarized and critiqued.
Putting the “Tux” on ITP

Bennett and colleagues report that approximately one third of children and adolescents with severe or refractory chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) showed a sustained response to treatment with the monoclonal anti-C20 antibody, rituximab. This prospective study is notable for several
Considerations for the Systematic Design of Machine Self-Diagnosis

An approach is suggested for the cost-effective systematic design of product on-board diagnostics that allow simple and complex appliances to diagnose or predict failures within themselves. This methodology differs from other current less formal approaches in that it encourages a wholly integrated design philosophy. Trends indicate that on-board diagnostic capabilities will become much more important in both the eyes of the consumer and the manufacturer in years to come. As such, the lack of a formal approach could represent a significant design bottleneck. The approach offered represents a meaningful first step in avoiding such a bottleneck. Furthermore, the technique can be used for evaluation and retrofit of diagnostics on existing products. Relevant background regarding machine self-diagnostics is presented, and future research needs are identified.
Insulin resistance, insulin-like growth factor I and breast cancer: A hypothesis

Consideration of existing data regarding clinical and biochemical risk factors for the development of breast cancer leads to the hypothesis that enhanced insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) activity plays a significant role in the development of this disease. Abnormal IGF-I activity may be related to events occurring prenatally, during puberty, or during adult life. Insulin resistance, a common feature in populations characterized by high caloric intake, may result in the amplification of IGF-I action at the tissue level by altering serum concentrations of IGF-I binding proteins. Several approaches toward testing the hypothesis are proposed, and potential opportunities for clinical application are described.
Enzyme co-localization in the pea leaf cytosol: 3-P-glycerate kinase, glyceraldehyde-3-P dehydrogenase, triose-P isomerase and aldolase

Abstract Nearest neighbor analysis of immunocytolocalization experiments indicates that the Embden–Meyerhof pathway enzymes aldolase, triose-P isomerase, glyceraldehyde-3-P dehydrogenase and P-glycerate kinase are located close to one another in the pea leaf cytosol. Direct transfer of the triose phosphates between aldolase, glyceraldehyde-3-P dehydrogenase and triose-P isomerase, direct transfer of glyceraldehyde-3-P between glyceraldehyde-3-P dehydrogenase and triose-P isomerase, and direct transfer of 1,3-P2-glycerate between glyceraldehyde-3-P dehydrogenase and P-glycerate kinase is then a possibility in the plant cytosol. In contrast, there is no indication that fructose bisphosphatase is co-localized with aldolase, and it unlikely that fructose bisphosphate is channeled from aldolase to fructose bisphosphatase in this system.
Headaches from practice guidelines.

Abstract Wears RL. Headaches from practice guidelines. Ann Emerg Med. March 2002;39:334-337.
Stimulus generalization of conditioned taste aversion in rats.

Relatively little information is available regarding the intradimensional stimulus generalization of conditioned taste aversion (CTA). Experiment 1 employed a between-groups generalization test to examine the extent to which conditioned flavor aversion to one sucrose solution generalized to other concentrations of sucrose in adult rats. Evidence of a gradient of aversion was obtained. Because generalization gradients in other tasks have been found to flatten over a retention interval, Experiment 2 investigated the effects of delayed testing (2, 7, or 21 days) upon the slope of the generalization gradient. The generalization gradient flattened at the longer intervals, suggesting that subjects forgot the specific attributes of the conditioning concentration and avoided generalized stimuli as if they were the original CS. Experiment 3 used a long delay between taste and toxicosis to degrade the associative contingency and found no evidence that the generalization gradients found in the first two experiments could be explained in terms of enhanced neophobia due to poisoning. These findings provide further evidence (cf. A. W. Logue, 1979 , Psychological Bulletin, 86, 276–296; M. Domjan, 1980 in J. S. Rosenblatt, R. A. Hinde, C. Beer, & M. Busnel (Eds.), Advances in the study of behavior, Vol. 11, New York: Academic Press) that CTA shares a number of similarities with other learning processes. Further, they illustrate that stimulus forgetting can be detected in a paradigm considered relatively immune to retention loss.
Becoming Self-Directed: Abstract Representations Support Endogenous Flexibility in Children.

A fundamental part of growing up is going beyond routines. Children become increasingly skilled over the first years of life at actively maintaining goals in the service of flexible behavior, allowing them to break out of habits and switch from one task to another. Their early successes often occur with exogenous (externally-provided) goals, and only later with endogenous (internally-driven) goals – a developmental progression that may reflect the greater demands on selection processes inherent in deciding what to do. Three studies investigated the mechanisms supporting endogenous flexibility, using a verbal fluency task in which children generated members of a category and could decide on their own when to switch from one subcategory to another. Children’s verbal fluency related to their performance in a more constrained and well-established switching task (Experiment 1), suggesting that the more complex verbal fluency measure taps the flexibility processes of interest. Children’s verbal fluency was also linked to their abstract, categorical representations in both individual difference analyses (Experiment 2) and experimental manipulation (Experiment 3). We interpret these results in terms of the role of abstract representations in reducing selection demands to aid the development of endogenous control.