cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Socially desirable responding in personality assessment: Still more substance than style

Abstract Moderated multiple regression analyses were employed to test the validity of the Marlowe–Crowne Social Desirability (MCSD) as an indicator of inaccuracy in self ratings of personality. Self ratings on the NEO Five Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) and the MCSD were collected from 222 college students. Informant ratings using the NEO-FFI were gathered from 128 randomly assigned roommates and 183 biological parents of these students. MCSD scores were not associated with lower agreement between self ratings and informant ratings in any of the 15 moderator tests conducted. MCSD scores were positively correlated with extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness as rated by the self, roommate, and parent. Higher MCSD scores are not indicative of lower validity of self ratings. Alternative interpretations of the MCSD are discussed.
Experimental and analytical study of radiation-recrystallized near-surface facets in snow

Abstract Radiation recrystallization occurs when surface snow metamorphoses into faceted crystals due to a radiation exchange that can occur near the surface of a snowpack. In particular, large temperature gradients and associated vapor pressure gradients can occur near the surface when absorbed solar radiation is coupled with cooling effects from longwave radiation and turbulent fluxes. An experimental study on the formation of radiation-recrystallized near-surface facets in snow was performed in an environmental chamber. A metal-halide lamp was used to mimic solar radiation, which penetrates the snow allowing thermal energy to be absorbed at depth. In addition, the ceiling was cooled to simulate a cold sky, thus inducing a net longwave radiation loss at the snow surface. Air temperature in the chamber was maintained at − 10 °C, while turbulent flux parameters, including relative humidity and wind velocity, were measured. Forty centimeter thick snow samples with insulated lateral sides were placed in the chamber on a constant temperature plate also at − 10 °C. The study focused on the significance of radiation exchange and snow density on recrystallization near the snow surface. Imposed boundary conditions led to the formation of facets of varying size at and near the snow surface. Faceting was observed when an applied solar flux between 350 and 1100 W/m 2 was combined with longwave and turbulent exchanges for snow with densities ranging from 170 to 410 kg/m 3 . To better understand the dominant factors, a thermodynamic model was used to extrapolate from the experimental results. The model incorporated meteorological inputs and was used to calculate a snowpack temperature profile using relevant snow parameters. Both experimental and model analyses indicate that radiation exchange and snow density are significant factors in the growth of radiation-recrystallized near-surface facets in snow.
Effects of central dopamine depletion on the d -amphetamine discriminative stimulus in rats

The discriminative stimulus properties ofd-amphetamine, cocaine, and apomorphine were assessed in rats trained in a two-lever, food-reinforced drug discrimination paradigm to discriminate 1.0 mg/kgd-amphetamine from saline. After determination of these dose-response relationships, the rats were divided into two groups. One group (6-OHDA) was given injections of desmethylimipramine (DMI, 30 mg/kg, IP) and 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA, 100 μg/10 μl each ventricle), while the other group (sham) was given the same dose of DMI and 6-OHDA vehicle (intraventricularly). Beginning approximately 45 days after intraventricular injections, dose-response relationships were redetermined for all three drugs. Larger doses ofd-amphetamine were required to elicit the same response in the 6-OHDA group (i.e. the dose-response relationship was shifted to the right), while no change was observed in the sham group. Any changes in the dose-response relationships for cocaine and apomorphine were comparable in the 6-OHDA and sham group. The rate-decreasing effects were not altered in either group for any of the drugs. Upon sacrifice, dopamine (DA) was found to be significantly depleted in the accumbens, caudate and rest of brain of the 6-OHDA group. Levels of norepinephrine and serotonin were unaltered. These data suggest that central DA-containing neurons play a role in the discriminative stimulus properties of psychomotor stimulants in rats.
Transient properties of triplet bottleneck holeburning in an optically thick sample

Abstract The transient behavior of the light intensity transmitted through an optically thick sample of pentacene in p-terphenyl at 1.5 K after the onset of cw-dye laser excitation of the S0 to S1 transition of the O3-site is reported. S-shaped curves with unusually long response times are found. A population-kinetic approach is developed which calculates the effect of populating the triplet state on the time dependence of the transmitted light intensity. The numerical calculations based on the bottleneck holeburning mechanism show good agreement with the experimental data without recourse to adjustable parameters. It is shown that the determination of T1 → S1 ISC-rates in the picosecond and nanosecond range is possible through an experiment on a microsecond timescale.
Sustainable development of hydroelectric power

Abstract This paper deals with policies to meet increasing demand for electricity in Turkey and elsewhere. Environmental problems created by exploitation of domestic resources should not be ignored. We comment on adverse effects of large-scale hydroelectric projects in India and Canada. We argue in favor of small-scale dams for sustainble development.
Photoactivity of Transparent Nanocrystalline Fe2O3 Electrodes Prepared via Anodic Electrodeposition

Highly transparent nanocrystalline α-Fe2O3 films were prepared via anodic electrodeposition using a slightly acidic aqueous medium (pH 4.1). The deposition mechanism involved oxidation of Fe2+ ions to Fe3+ ions followed by precipitation of Fe3+ ions as amorphous γ-FeOOH films. The as-deposited films were then converted to transparent nanocrystalline α-Fe2O3 films by annealing at 520 °C in air. The as-deposited and annealed films were characterized by Raman and UV−vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The photoactivity of the as-deposited and annealed films was studied by measuring short-circuit photocurrents in a 60:40 solution of propylene carbonate:acetonitrile containing 0.5 M tetrabutylammonium iodide and 0.04 M iodine. Both films show n-type behavior generating anodic photocurrent. α-Fe2O3 films with various thicknesses were prepared to study the effect of film thickness on photon absorption and photocurrent. The short-circuit photocurrent of α-Fe2O3 films increased g...
Complete denture occlusion

Lingualized articulation has been advocated by many practitioners over the past 60 years. It can be achieved using a variety of tooth molds arranged in a number of ways that seem to provide the least complicated approach to occlusal rehabilitation and to satisfy the needs of the edentulous patient. Clinical experience has supported its use during functional and nonfunctional activities [17, 18]. The different combinations of tooth molds available from one particular tooth manufacturer, and now specific molds designed for lingualized articulation by other manufacturers, allows the practitioner to improve the likelihood of maximal intercuspation, avoid deflective occlusal contacts, determine cusp height for selective occlusal reshaping, and achieve a natural and pleasing appearance. The articulation and arrangement of the posterior teeth in lingualized articulation assures a standardized arrangement.
Impact of Aggregation Rules of Ancillary Parameters on Soil Moisture Retrievals from Space-borne Microwave Radiometer Observations

Retrieving soil moisture from space-borne microwave radiometer observations often requires ancillary parameters such as surface vegetation opacity and roughness. The conventional approach for deriving representative values of these parameters is usually to simply average the corresponding parameters of high resolution pixels over the whole microwave sensor footprint. This paper uses a microwave emission model (MEM) to demonstrate that the aggregation rules significantly impact the results and if chosen correctly can reduce the soil moisture retrieval errors from the single-channel retrieval and the MEM inversion algorithms.
Fréchet Means for Distributions of Persistence Diagrams

Given a distribution $$\rho $$ ? on persistence diagrams and observations $$X_{1},\ldots ,X_{n} \mathop {\sim }\limits ^{iid} \rho $$ X 1 , ? , X n ~ i i d ? we introduce an algorithm in this paper that estimates a Frechet mean from the set of diagrams $$X_{1},\ldots ,X_{n}$$ X 1 , ? , X n . If the underlying measure $$\rho $$ ? is a combination of Dirac masses $$\rho = \frac{1}{m} \sum _{i=1}^{m} \delta _{Z_{i}}$$ ? = 1 m ? i = 1 m ? Z i then we prove the algorithm converges to a local minimum and a law of large numbers result for a Frechet mean computed by the algorithm given observations drawn iid from $$\rho $$ ? . We illustrate the convergence of an empirical mean computed by the algorithm to a population mean by simulations from Gaussian random fields.
The Catalog’s Last Stand

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the uncertain future of the online catalog, and the tensions that exist between creating a code that meets user needs while adhering to principles deemed necessary to librarians.Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses provocative statements from the Taiga Forum to illustrate various points.Findings – The paper finds that tension will exist for time to come between those who favor RDA's richness and those who claim RDA (1999) is too complex to be adopted by other information communities.Originality/value – The paper provides thoughtful commentary on troubling issues surrounding cataloging and the future of the online catalog.
Echocardiographic features of experimental left atrial tumor

Abstract An experimental technique for simulating left atrial tumors and their echocardiographic features is described. The echocardiographic demonstration of tumor movement between atrium and ventricle was noted in all cases and reliably detected the tumor. A normal E-to-F slope could be seen in the presence of a tumor. A notch or plateau was at times found on the AC component of the mitral valve echo and its hemodynamic implications are discussed. The controversy concerning whether blood or tumor enters the left ventricle first during diastole is resolved in favor of the former. The demonstration of tumor, mitral leaflet, and ventricular-septal contact provides a possible explanation for the presence of mitral valve lesions and tumor emboli in left atrial myxoma.
A twelve-hour in vitro procedure for sorghum grain feed quality assessment

Improvement methods for assessing cereal crop feed value are a prerequisite for the genetic improvement of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] feed value. Rate of starch digestion is now commonly believed to be the limiting factor in sorghum utilization by cattle (Bos taurus). However, techniques to assess this trait are not useful to sorghum breeders because of high labor inputs, lab error associated with starch measurement, and need for high numbers of replications. The objective of this study was to develop a simple technique capable of identifying differences in digestion between sorghum and corn (Zea mays L.) and detecting differences among sorghum genotypes. In vitro starch and dry matter digestion were measured on sorghum and corn lab standards at 0, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 40 h. Maximum differentiation between corn and sorghum dry matter digestion (345 vs. 253 g kg(-1)) and starch digestion (403 vs. 301 g kg(-1)) occurred at 12 h, and dry matter and starch digestion were highly correlated (r = 0.99). Differences among five sorghum lines were significant for 12-h dry matter digestion and ranged from 229 to 272 g kg(-1). This procedure provides a precise and rapid technique that can be used by feed grain breeders to evaluate modifications in grain digestion parameters.
Calcium channel blocker toxicity

Objective: Calcium channel blockers (CCB) are frequently prescribed for veterinary patients and the incidence of toxicosis secondary to these agents is increasing. The purpose of this review is to discuss toxicity of these agents and review therapeutic options. Etiology: Calcium plays a vital role in maintaining cellular functions within the cardiovascular system. Toxicosis secondary to these drugs can have deleterious effects on vascular tone, cardiac contractility, as well as electrical conduction in the heart. Diagnosis: The intitial diagnosis is often made based on history of ingestion, physical examination and electrocardiography. Definitive diagnosis of CCB overdose can be made via quantification of serum concentrations of the drug ingested. Therapy: Initial therapy should consist of inducing emesis and administration of activated charcoal. Other potential therapies include intravenous calcium, parasympatholytics, sympathomimetics, glucagon, insulin and dextrose, placement of a temporary pacemaker, or calcium channel agonists. Prognosis: There is little data on the outcome of CCB toxicosis. Aggressive management of these cases is necessary to try and minimize morbidity and mortality.
Computer science as a school subject

Computer science is one of the richest, most exciting disciplines on the planet, yet any teenager will tell you that ICT (as it is called in UK schools --- "information and communication technology") is focused almost entirely on the use and application of computers, and in practice covers nothing about how computers work, nor programming, nor anything of the discipline of computer science as we understand it. Over the last two decades, computing at school has drifted from writing adventure games on the BBC Micro to writing business plans in Excel. This is bad for our young people's education, and it is bad for our economy. Nor is this phenomenon restricted to the UK: many countries are struggling with the same issues. Our young people should be educated not only in the application and use of digital technology, but also in how it works, and its foundational principles. Lacking such knowledge renders them powerless in the face of complex and opaque technology, disenfranchises them from making informed decisions about the digital society, and deprives our nations of a well-qualified stream of students enthusiastic and able to envision and design new digital systems. Can anything be done, given the enormous inertia of our various countries' educational systems? Sometimes, yes. After a decade of stasis, change has come to the UK. Over the last 18 months, there has been a wholesale reform of the English school computing curriculum, and substantial movement in Scotland and Wales. It now seems likely that computer science will, for the first time, become part of every child's education. This change has been driven not by institutions or by the government, but by a grass-roots movement of parents, teachers, university academics, software developers, and others. A key agent in this grass-roots movement---although not the only one---is the Computing At School Working Group (CAS). In this talk I will describe how CAS was born and developed, and the radical changes that have taken place since in the UK. I hope that this may be encouraging for those pushing water uphill in other parts of the world, and I will also try to draw out some lessons from our experience that may be useful to others.
The metabolism of oxalate precursors in isolated perfused rat livers.

Abstract The oxidation of [U- 14 C]ethanolamine, [3- 14 C]serine, [1- 14 C]serine, [U- 14 C]glycine, [1- 14 C]glycine, [2- 14 C]glycine, [U- 14 C]ethylene glycol, [1- 14 C]glycolate, and [U- 14 C] glyoxylate to [ 14 C]oxalate was investigated in isolated perfused rat livers from male Wistar rats. Maximum oxalate synthesis was obtained with 2 mmoles of glyoxylate which yielded 14.2 mg oxalate during a 4-hr perfusion period. However, at low levels of absorbed substrate glycolate was a more effective precursor of oxalate. Isolated perfused rat livers from vitamin B 6 and thiamine-deficient rats did not stimulate [ 14 C]oxalate synthesis above that obtained with livers from rats on a normal adequate diet. The rate of [ 14 C]oxalate synthesis was essentially the same for radioactive glycine, irrespective of the specific labeling, indicating that the carbon chain is incorporated intact. [3- 14 C] serine was a better precursor of [ 14 C] oxalate than [1- 14 C]serine, suggesting the major metabolic pathway does not involve glycine as an intermediate. No [ 14 C]oxalate synthesis could be demonstrated in isolated perfused rat kidneys. The results suggest that the liver is the major source of endogenous oxalate in the rat.
Frequency, outcome, and appropriateness of treatment of nonionic iodinated contrast media reactions.

OBJECTIVE. The objective of our study was to evaluate the frequency, outcome, and appropriateness of treatment of adults with acute allergiclike reactions related to IV-administered nonionic iodinated contrast media.MATERIALS AND METHODS. For IV injections of nonionic iodinated contrast media between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 2005, contrast reaction reports and medical records of patients in whom contrast reactions occurred were reviewed. Data collected included patient sex and age, symptoms, reaction manifestations, treatment, and long-term sequelae. The appropriateness and efficacy of patient management were assessed.RESULTS. Allergic-type reactions occurred in 545 (0.6%) of patients injected with nonionic iodinated contrast media: 418 (77%) reactions were mild, 116 (21%) were moderate, and 11 (2%) were severe. Two hundred twenty-one patients (41%) received treatment. The most commonly administered medication was diphenhydramine (145 patients or 27%). Corticosteroids were administered to 17 pati...
Grand canonical Monte Carlo simulations of nonrigid molecules: Siting and segregation in silicalite zeolite

A method is described for performing grand canonical Monte Carlo simulations of molecules with internal degrees of freedom. The approach is applied to adsorption of methanol and cyclohexane in the zeolite silicalite. Calculated adsorption isotherms and heats of adsorption compare well with experimental data from the literature. In addition, the simulations provide information on preferential siting of molecules in the different pores of silicalite. Binary adsorption results are also predicted for cyclohexane/methane, benzene/methane, and benzene/cyclohexane mixtures. The siting preferences of the single components result in clear segregation effects for these binary systems. Benzene and cyclohexane display preferred siting in the channel intersections, while methane adsorbs preferentially in the channels. In the case of benzene/cyclohexane, the cyclohexane adsorbs in the intersections and the benzene is pushed to the zigzag channels.
County government in the southwest illustrated by centr county, Oklahoma

Administration under a deemocratic people, honest and faithfyl, but unskilled and what yards of red tape! Another in our county governement series.
D-Pen2-[D-Pen5]enkephalin impairs acquisition and enhances retention of a one-way active avoidance response in rats.

Abstract We reported previously that d -Pen2-[ d -Pen5]enkephalin (DPDPE), a δ-opioid receptor selective analog of Leu-enkephalin, impairs acquisition of an automated jump-up avoidance response in rats and acquisition of a one-way active avoidance response in mice. In the present study we investigated the effects of DPDPE on one-way avoidance conditioning in rats. The rats received two escape-only trials on day 1 and eight additional training trials on day 2. DPDPE (1.16 μg/kg IP) administered prior to training on day 2 impaired acquisition of the avoidance response. On the other hand, DPDPE (0.332 μg/kg IP) administered following presentation of the two escape-only trials on day 1 significantly enhanced retention, as measured by improved one-way active avoidance performance on day 2. These results indicate that activation of δ-opioid receptors by DPDPE has a modulatory effect on acquisition and retention of aversively motivated performance.
Security culture and the employment relationship as drivers of employees’ security compliance

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of security-related and employment relationship factors on employees’ security compliance decisions. A major challenge for organizations is encouraging employee compliance with security policies, procedures and guidelines. Specifically, we predict that security culture, job satisfaction and perceived organizational support have a positive effect on employees’ security compliance intentions. Design/methodology/approach – This study used a survey approach for data collection. Data were collected using two online surveys that were administered at separate points in time. Findings – Our results provide empirical support for security culture as a driver of employees’ security compliance in the workplace. Another finding is that an employee’s feeling of job satisfaction influences his/her security compliance intention, although this relationship appears to be contingent on the employee’s position, tenure and industry. Surprisingly, we also found a negative relationship between perceived organizational support and security compliance intention. Originality/value – Our results provide one of the few empirical validations of security culture, and we recognize its multidimensional nature as conceptualized through top management commitment to security (TMCS), security communication and computer monitoring. We also extend security compliance research by considering the influence of employment relationship factors drawn from the organizational behavior literature.
Fabrication of CdTe Nanorod Arrays Over Large Area Through Patterned Electrodeposition for Efficient Solar Energy Conversion

Abstract Development of solar energy conversion devices based on nano-fabrication techniques is the key to next generation photovoltaics. However, low throughput and complicated production procedures have limited their emergence at commercially relevant scales. In this article we report an inexpensive, high-throughput, versatile and reproducible technique for fabrication of vertically aligned CdTe nanorod arrays with coverage over a significantly large area through selective electrodeposition (PatED) on lithographically patterned nanoelectrodes. The nanoelectrodes are patterned using the Nanosphere Photolithography (NPL) technique which uses size-controlled polystyrene spheres as microlenses to focus light into photonic jets on an underlying photoresist. The nanorod diameter and pitch could be controlled through optimization of the NPL process. This generalized technique provides a way for production of wafer-scale nanorod arrays on conducting surfaces for solar energy conversion. Observed photocurrent density from the nanorod device is more than two times higher than thin films fabricated under similar conditions, in spite of actual coverage for the nanorod device being ~12% compared to the thin film. In addition to improved photocurrent generation, reduced material consumption due to enhanced effectiveness at lower coverage and simplicity of the fabrication technique makes this process ideal for the cost-effective production of high efficiency solar cells at commercial scale.
Anomalous F region response to moderate solar flares

[1] Ionograms recorded with a dynasonde at Bear Lake Observatory, Utah, during moderate solar x-ray flares exhibit characteristic enhancements to the E and F1 region ionosphere. However, during these same flares, the peak electron density of the ionosphere (NmF2) unexpectedly decreases, recovering after the flare ends. In order to reconcile this anomalous behavior with expected increases to the total electron content (TEC), we undertake a modeling effort using the Time-Dependent Ionospheric Model (TDIM) developed at Utah State University. For solar input, a simple flare time irradiance model is created, using measurements from the Solar EUV Experiment instrument on the TIMED spacecraft. TDIM simulations show that the anomalous NmF2 response can be explained by assuming a rapid electron temperature increase, which increases the O+ scale height, moving plasma to higher altitudes. The model results are able to reproduce both the decreasing NmF2 as well as the expected TEC enhancement.
Ce–Mn Oxides for High-Temperature Gasifier Effluent Desulfurization

We examined Ce–Mn mixed oxides as high-temperature desulfurization materials, exploring various Mn/Ce ratios and the effects of admixing other rare earth oxides. The sulfur capacities at temperatures from 900 to 1025 K with simple air regeneration were measured for repeat cycles until a stable, reversible capacity was obtained. The measured sulfur capacities with a realistic model syngas containing H2S, H2, N2, CO, H2O, and CO2 were compared to thermodynamically possible maximum sulfur capacities. The oxidized and sulfided (reduced) sorbents were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES), X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS), temperature-programmed reduction (TPR), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area. Density functional theory calculations are used to aid in interpreting characterization data and in explaining the enhanced S adsorption capacities. There is a large synergistic effect on sulfur adsorption and reaction resulting from the intimate ad...
Dynamic Motion of Two Elastic Half-Spaces in Relative Sliding Without Slipping

Two isotropic linear elastic half-spaces of different material properties are pressed together by a uniform pressure and subjected to a constant shearing stress, both of which are applied far away from the interface. The shear stress is arbitrarily less than is required to produce slipping according to Coulomb's friction law. Nonetheless, it is found here that the two bodies can slide with respect to each other due to the presence of a separation wave pulse in which all of the interface sticks, except for the finite-width separation-pulse region. In this type of pulse, the separation zone has a vanishing slope at its leading edge and an infinite slope at its trailing edge. Nonetheless, the order of the singularity at the trailing edge is small enough so as not to produce an energy sink. The problem is reduced to the solution of a pair of singular integral equations of the second kind which are solved numerically using a variation of the well-known method of Erdogan et al. (1973). Results are given for various material combinations and for a range of the remote shear-to-normal-stress ratio.
The effects of water depth and light on oviposition and egg cannibalism in the bluefin killifish Lucania goodei

This study showed that sex and depth had strong effects on egg cannibalism, whereas water clarity (clear v. tea-stained) had no effect on cannibalism or oviposition in the bluefin killifish Lucania goodei. These results are consistent with the extreme levels of iteroparity in L. goodei where females appear to spread their eggs across multiple locations and depths presumably to avoid egg predation.
Optical and infrared pulsations from the HZ Herculis binary system during the 1983 prolonged X-ray low state

Pulsed infrared and optical flux from HZ Her has been detected during the 1983 prolonged X-ray low state by simultaneous observations with the Lick Observatory Shane 3.1 m and Crossley 91 cm telescopes. The pulsed fluxes in the 1.0-2.5-micron bandpass and the 3200-7500 A bandpass agree in pulse frequency and phase and were measured to be 31 and 13 microJy, respectively. These pulsed fluxes indicate that the reprocessed pulsation spectrum is consistent with optically thin thermal bremsstrahlung radiation with a characteristic temperature of 25,000 K (+25,000; -12,500) which is modulated in intensity. An apparent earth-approaching Doppler velocity of about 65 km/s is observed for these pulsed fluxes; this velocity can be interpreted as pulsed X-ray reprocessing by material in the mass transfer stream between L1 and the outer edge of the accretion disk. Other optical observations made during and before the 1983 prolonged X-ray low state show that the optical pulsations may have been subtly affected by the obscuration responsible for the X-ray low.
Experimental observation of the molecular weight dependence of the critical exponents for the rheology near the gel point

Abstract Linear viscoelasticity experiments are shown to follow a regular pattern near the gel point of chemical and physical gels. Experimental observations are reviewed for the three critical exponents of rheology: the relaxation exponent ( n ) for the material directly at the gel point, the critical exponent (α) of the divergence of the longest relaxation time in the approach of the gel point, and the exponent (κ) for the rate of change of the spectrum at the transition. The molecular weight of the precursor is an important parameter which has been studied recently. Other parameters are addition of diluent (solvent), off-balancing of stoichiometry, and bulkiness of crosslinking points.
2012 Special Issue: Massively parallel neural encoding and decoding of visual stimuli

The massively parallel nature of video Time Encoding Machines (TEMs) calls for scalable, massively parallel decoders that are implemented with neural components. The current generation of decoding algorithms is based on computing the pseudo-inverse of a matrix and does not satisfy these requirements. Here we consider video TEMs with an architecture built using Gabor receptive fields and a population of Integrate-and-Fire neurons. We show how to build a scalable architecture for video Time Decoding Machines using recurrent neural networks. Furthermore, we extend our architecture to handle the reconstruction of visual stimuli encoded with massively parallel video TEMs having neurons with random thresholds. Finally, we discuss in detail our algorithms and demonstrate their scalability and performance on a large scale GPU cluster.
A Competitive Nucleotide Binding Inhibitor: In Vitro Characterization of Rab7 GTPase Inhibition

Mapping the functionality of GTPases through small molecule inhibitors represents an underexplored area in large part due to the lack of suitable compounds. Here we report on the small chemical molecule 2-(benzoylcarbamothioylamino)-5,5-dimethyl-4,7-dihydrothieno[2,3-c]pyran-3-carboxylic acid (PubChem CID 1067700) as an inhibitor of nucleotide binding by Ras-related GTPases. The mechanism of action of this pan-GTPase inhibitor was characterized in the context of the Rab7 GTPase as there are no known inhibitors of Rab GTPases. Bead-based flow cytometry established that CID 1067700 has significant inhibitory potency on Rab7 nucleotide binding with nanomolar inhibitor (K(i)) values and an inhibitory response of ≥97% for BODIPY-GTP and BODIPY-GDP binding. Other tested GTPases exhibited significantly lower responses. The compound behaves as a competitive inhibitor of Rab7 nucleotide binding based on both equilibrium binding and dissociation assays. Molecular docking analyses are compatible with CID 1067700 fitting into the nucleotide binding pocket of the GTP-conformer of Rab7. On the GDP-conformer, the molecule has greater solvent exposure and significantly less protein interaction relative to GDP, offering a molecular rationale for the experimental results. Structural features pertinent to CID 1067700 inhibitory activity have been identified through initial structure-activity analyses and identified a molecular scaffold that may serve in the generation of more selective probes for Rab7 and other GTPases. Taken together, our study has identified the first competitive GTPase inhibitor and demonstrated the potential utility of the compound for dissecting the enzymology of the Rab7 GTPase, as well as serving as a model for other small molecular weight GTPase inhibitors.
The relationship between epidermal growth factor receptors and the terminal differentiation of A431 carcinoma cells

The replication of human epidermoid carcinoma A431 cells is inhibited by epidermal growth factor (EGF), with 5 ng/ml of EGF causing 50% inhibition of cellular proliferation. EGF resistant clones isolated from A431 cells were able to replicate in the presence of 100 ng/ml of EGF. That this insensitivity to EGF was probably due to a decrease in the expression of EGF receptors (EGFR) on the cell surface was shown using an EGFR cDNA probe to detect a 68% to 85% decrease relative to parental cells in the amount of EGFR mRNA in the EGF resistant clones. A corresponding decrease in surface EGFR levels was also detected in EGF resistant clones as measured by 125I-EGF binding. Eighteen percent of A431 cells cultured in serum-free medium for 6 days entered a pathway of terminal differentiation, as expressed by the formation of envelope-competent cells, whereas EGF resistant clones exhibited a considerably greater capacity to mature, even when cultured in serum-containing medium. The findings suggest that the concentration of EGFRs is important for the capacity of epidermal cells to undergo terminal differentiation in vitro.
Characterization of an optimal matrix estimator under convex loss function

Characterization of an optimal vector estimator and an optimal matrix estimator are obtained. In each case appropriate convex loss functions are considered. The results are illustrated through the problems of simultaneous unbiased estimation, simultaneous equivariant estimation and simultaneous unbiased prediction. Further an optimality criterion is proposed for matrix unbiased estimation and it is shown that the matrix unbiased estimation of a matrix parametric function and the minimum variance unbiased estimation of its components are equivalent.
Earthquake Simulation by Restricted Random Walks

This article simulates earthquake slip distributions as restricted random walks. Random walks offer several unifying insights into earthquake behaviors that physically based simulations do not. With properly tailored variables, random walks generate observed power law rates of earthquake number versus earthquake magnitude (the Gutenberg–Richter relation). Curiously, b -value, the slope of this distribution, not only fixes the ratio of small to large events but also dictates diverse earthquake scaling laws such as mean slip versus fault length and moment versus mean slip. Moreover, b -value determines the overall shape and roughness of earthquake ruptures. For example, mean random walk quakes with b = −½ have elliptical slip distributions characteristic of a uniform stress drop on a crack. Random walk earthquake simulators, tuned by comparison with field data, provide improved bases for statistical inference of earthquake behavior and hazard.
Screening and Assessment Tools for Measuring Adolescent Client Needs and Functioning in Substance Abuse Treatment

The purpose of this study is to establish the psychometric properties of a noncommercial, publicly available, modular screening and assessment system for adolescents in substance abuse treatment. D...
Serum carotenoids and tocopherols and incidence of age-related nuclear cataract

Background: It is not known whether the protective effects of antioxidants on cataract observed in experimental animals are relevant to age-related opacities in humans. Objective: The relations of serum carotenoids and tocopherols to the incidence of age-related nuclear cataract were investigated in a random sample of 400 adults, 50‐86 y of age, in the Beaver Dam Eye Study. Design: Nuclear opacity was assessed by using lens photographs taken at baseline (in 1988‐1990) and follow-up (in 1993‐1995). Nonfasting concentrations of individual carotenoids and a- and g-tocopherol, were determined from serum obtained at baseline. A total of 252 persons were eligible for incident cataract, of whom 57 developed nuclear cataract in at least one eye. Results were adjusted for age, smoking, serum cholesterol, heavy drinking, adiposity, and, in the tocopherol models, dietary linoleic acid intake. Results: Only serum tocopherol (the sum of a- and g-tocopherol, in mmol/mmol cholesterol) was associated with cataract. For total serum tocopherol, persons in tertile 3 had a lower risk of cataract than persons in tertile 1 [odds ratio (OR): 0.4; 95% CI: 0.2, 0.9; P = 0.03 for linear trend]. Although serum carotenoids were not significantly associated with nuclear cataract, marginal inverse associations with lutein (OR: 0.3; 95% CI: 0.1, 1.2; P = 0.13 for linear trend) and cryptoxanthin (OR: 0.3; 95% CI: 0.1, 1.3; P = 0.11 for linear trend) were suggested in people ♢ 65 y of age. Conclusions: Findings were compatible with the possibility that nuclear cataract may be linked inversely to vitamin E status, but neither strongly supported nor negated the hypothesized inverse association of nuclear cataract with serum carotenoids. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;69:272‐7.
Methodology for VHDL performance model construction and validation

Hardware description languages (HDLs) are frequently used to construct performance models to represent systems early in the design process. The HDLs are commonly known to be time-consuming and labor-intensive tools. For example, VHDL uses a large number of possible modeling approaches that can lead to designs which are unstructured and difficult to understand. This paper discusses a methodology to construct VHDL performance models which will help to significantly reduce the time from an initial conception to a working design. To further reduce development time, reuse of existing structural primitives is emphasized. Typical models of multi-processor architectures are very large and complex. Validation of theses models is difficult and time consuming. This paper also develops a methodology for model validation. A seventeen processor raceway architecture that was developed as a part of the ongoing RASSP (Rapid Prototyping of Application Specific Signal Processors) project, is used as a template to illustrate the new methodologies of performance model construction and model validation. The design consists of seventeen processors interconnected by multiple crossbar switches. Two software algorithms were mapped onto the architecture: a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Range Processing Algorithm and a SAR Multiswath Processing Algorithm. The methodologies developed in this thesis will considerably reduce the amount of time needed to construct and validate performance models of complex multiprocessor architectures.
Building surfaces from borders in Areas 17 and 18 of the cat.

Several brightness illusions indicate that borders can dramatically affect the perception of adjoining surfaces. In the Craik–O’Brien–Cornsweet illusion, in particular, two equiluminant surfaces can appear different in brightness due to the contrast border between them. Although the psychophysical nature of this phenomenon has been well characterized, the neural circuitry underlying this effect is unexplored. Here, we have asked whether there are cells in visual cortex which respond to edge-induced illusory brightness percepts such as the Cornsweet. Using optical imaging and single unit recordings methods, we have studied responses of the primary (Area 17) and second (Area 18) visual cortical areas of the anesthetized cat to both real luminance change and Cornsweet brightness change. We find that there are indeed cells whose responses are modulated in phase with the modulation of the Cornsweet stimulus. These cells are present in both Area 17 and Area 18, but are more prevalent in Area 18. These responses are generally weak and are found even when receptive fields are distant from the contrast border. Consistent with perception, cells which respond to the Cornsweet border are modulated in antiphase to the Narrow Real (another border-induced illusory brightness stimulus). Remarkably, we also find evidence of edge-induced responses to illusory brightness change using intrinsic signal optical imaging. Both real luminance change and edge-induced brightness change produces a greater imaged response in Area 18 than in Area 17. Thus, in the absence of direct luminance stimulation, cells in visual cortex can respond to modulation of distant border contrasts. We suggest that the perception of surface brightness was encoded in the early visual cortical pathway by both surface luminance contrast signals in Area 17 (Rossi, A. F., Rittenhouse, C. D., & Paradiso, M. A. (1996). The representation of brightness in primary visual cortex. Science, 273, 1104–7) and border-induced contrast signals that predominate in Area 18. © 2001 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.
Parents’ Perspectives on Homelessness And Its Effects on The Educational Development of Their Children

This qualitative study explored parents' perceptions of how their homelessness affected the development and academic achievement of their children. Grounded theory with symbolic interactionism was the framework for this study. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with 34 homeless families in a variety of settings. Multiple factors were found, including unstable relationships, abuse and violence, abdication of parental responsibility, poor parenting models, and resilient children. The findings present a case for supportive educational services for homeless school-age children. School nurses play a dual role. They can ensure that school personnel and resource providers understand the culture of homelessness, and they can develop and implement innovative programs for parents and school personnel to help homeless children.
Propagation comparisons at VHF and UHF frequencies

This paper presents and compares measured propagation data taken at four unlicensed-band frequencies including 151MHz, 433MHz, 902MHz and 2400MHz. A custom 10mW signal source was used as the transmitter, and a spectrum analyzer as the receiver to provide accuracy to within 1dB and sensitivity to better than −120 dBm. Both monopole and low-gain directional antennas were employed to represent expected use in an Energy Harvesting application. The measurement environment included both indoor and outdoor features. A range of up to 1.5km at the lower frequencies was achieved. The path-loss exponent was found to be approximately three to five and relatively independent of the operating band. Results confirm that lower frequencies are preferred for low-power applications when omni-directional and low gain antennas are used.
Does Christianity make a difference

The human person makes great demands on the physician and calls for unique attention. Hence the doctor-patient relationship calls for the highest ideals of kindness, patience, trustworthiness, generosity and skill. The Catholic physician brings to these demands a specific meaning: ministering to the sick is to see Christ in them and to show Him to them.
Effective Educational Programs for Young Children: What We Need to Know

Policymakers and researchers have shared interests in educational programs for young children. Policymakers see these programs as a potential means of narrowing the persistent gaps in achievement evident in many children entering kindergarten. Researchers see their role as one of assessing the effectiveness of various programs so that policymakers can make informed deci- sions. This article provides an overview of what is currently known and what needs to be determined about the factors that contribute to positive outcomes from early education programs. New prospective longitudinal studies are needed, as well as secondary analyses of recent large-scale longitudinal studies, which can inform issues of program design and impact. Five gaps in knowledge about effective programs are identified: pro- gram design for an increasingly ethnically diverse group of young children, including those of immigrants; con- necting teaching and learning processes to child out- comes; understanding a broad range of child outcomes based on developmental science; bringing multiple disci- plinary perspectives to bear on what constitutes effective earlyeducationprograms;andcontinuingtoaddresshow
Using obviously synchronizable series expressions instead of loops

It has been known for a long time that series expressions (functional expressions on data aggregates) are easier to write and maintain than loops. However, as typically implemented, series expressions are much less efficient than loops. At the cost of placing modest limits on what can be written, obviously synchronizable series expressions solve this problem by guaranteeing that every series expression can be automatically converted into a highly efficient loop. It is demonstrated using Lisp and Pascal prototypes that obviously synchronizable series expressions can be added to any programming language. >
The Model Eliciting Activity (MEA) Construct: Moving Engineering Education Research Into the Classroom

A growing set of “professional skills” including problem solving, teamwork, and communications are becoming increasingly important in differentiating U.S. engineering graduates from their international counterparts. A consensus of engineering educators and professionals now believes that mastery of these professional skills is needed for our graduates to excel in a highly competitive global environment. A decade ago ABET realized this and included these skills among the eleven outcomes needed to best prepare professionals for the 21st century engineering world. This has left engineering educators with a challenge: how can students learn to master these skills? We address this challenge by focusing on models and modeling as an integrating approach for learning particular professional skills, including problem solving, within the undergraduate curriculum. To do this, we are extending a proven methodology — model-eliciting activities (MEAs) — creating in essence model integrating activities (MIAs). MEAs originated in the mathematics education community as a research tool. In an MEA teams of students address an open-ended, real-world problem. A typical MEA elicits a mathematical or conceptual system as part of its procedural requirements. To resolve an MEA, students may need to make new connections, combinations, manipulations or predictions. We are extending this construct to a format in which the student team must also integrate prior knowledge and concepts in order to solve the problem at hand. In doing this, we are also forcing students to confront and repair certain misconceptions acquired at earlier stages of their education. A distinctive MEA feature is an emphasis on testing, revising, refining and formally documenting solutions, all skills that future practitioners should master. Student performance on MEAs is typically assessed using a rubric to measure the quality of solution. In addition, a reflection tool completed by students following an MEA exercise assists them in better assessing and critiquing their progress as modelers and problem solvers. As part of the first phase a large, MEA research study funded by the National Science Foundation and involving six institutions, we are investigating the strategies students use to solve unstructured problems by better understanding the extent that our MEA/MIA construct can be used as a learning intervention. To do this, we are developing learning material suitable for upper-level engineering students, requiring them to integrate concepts they’ve learned in foundation courses while teasing out misconceptions. We provide an overview of the project and our results to date.© 2008 ASME