cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inviting the donor to give

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide suggestions for communicating library needs and opportunities to prospective donors.Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses and gives examples of outreach communications that can inspire support.Findings – The paper proposes that fundraising opportunities can be communicated and enhanced through a variety of methods.Originality/value – The value of the paper is in its suggestions for promoting the library's needs and opportunities through external communication means.
An inverse random source scattering problem in inhomogeneous media

Consider the scattering problem for the one-dimensional stochastic Helmholtz equation in a slab of an inhomogeneous medium, where the source function is driven by the Wiener process. To determine the random wave field, the direct problem is equivalently formulated as a two-point stochastic boundary value problem. This problem is shown to have pathwise existence and uniqueness of a solution. Furthermore, the solution is explicitly deduced with an integral representation by solving the two-point boundary value problem. Since the source and hence the radiated field are stochastic, the inverse problem is to reconstruct the statistical structure, such as the mean and the variance, of the source function from physically realizable measurements of the radiated field on the boundary point. Based on the constructed solution for the direct problem, integral equations are derived for the reconstruction formulas, which connect the mean and the variance of the random source to those of the measured field. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the validity and effectiveness of the proposed method.
SO(D+1)-INVARIANT REGULARIZATION IN D EUCLIDEAN DIMENSIONS

Classical conformally invariant field theories in D>2 Euclidean dimensions are written in a manifestly SO(D+1, 1)- or SO(D+1)-invariant way. In the latter case, a new regularization scheme based on expansions in terms of the Gegenbauer polynomials is developed.
Particle Creation in Expanding Universes

We report results of an investigation of elementary particle creation in expanding universes.
Control of pigeons’ choice behavior by the position and luminance of a spot of light

Pigeons were trained to discriminate between a circular field containing a centrally located spot of light and an evenly illuminated circular field. During generalization tests done after training, the position and the luminance of the spot were varied. The results of the generalization tests are well described by a multiplicative “combination rule,” which is derived from the assumption that the pigeons inspect only a small portion of the visual display, and that they base their choice of reponse on the presence or absence of a nonuniformity in the luminance of the area they inspect.
The Effectiveness of Patient Reminder/Recall Interventions on Immunization Rates: A Critical Review of the Literature ♦ 695

The Effectiveness of Patient Reminder/Recall Interventions on Immunization Rates: A Critical Review of the Literature ♦ 695
The Use of Client Surrogates in Determining the Reliability of a Standardized Assessment Instrument in Multiple, Diverse Settings.

Abstract Since its introduction in 1980, the widely-used Addiction Severity Index has been subjected to extensive validity and reliability studies. Reliability procedures have commonly entailed test–retest and multiple judge video reviews, all within controlled environments. The following study uses a method that differs substantially from conventional reliability assessment by employing trained, professional actors as client surrogates to examine the reliability of the instrument when administered in the field, in naturalistic, diverse agency settings. This article details this method, addressing the question, to what extent did this method produce consistent stimuli to enable the measurement of reliability?
Numerical and analytical studies of nonequilibrium fluctuation-induced transport processes

We present a numerical simulation algorithm that is well suited for the study of noise-induced transport processes. The algorithm has two advantages over standard techniques: (1) it preserves the property of detailed balance for systems in equilibrium and (2) it provides an efficient method for calculating nonequilibrium currents. Numerical results are compared with exact solutions from two different types of correlation ratchets, and are used to verify the results of perturbation calculations done on a three-state ratchet.
Polarization ray tracing in anisotropic optically active media. I. Algorithms

Procedures for performing polarization ray tracing through birefringent media are presented in a form compatible with the standard methods of geometrical ray tracing. The birefringent materials treated include the following: anisotropic optically active materials such as quartz, non-optically active uniaxial materials such as calcite, and isotropic optically active materials such as mercury sulfide and organic liquids. Refraction and reflection algorithms are presented that compute both ray directions and wave directions. Methods for computing polarization modes, refractive indices, optical path lengths, and Fresnel transmission and reflection coefficients are also specified. A numerical example of these algorithms is given for analyzing the field of view of a quartz rotator.
Early constriction or expansion of the external elastic membrane area determines the late remodeling response and cumulative lumen loss in transplant vasculopathy: an intravascular ultrasound study with 4-year follow-up.

Abstract Background: Early constriction of the external elastic membrane (EEM) area has been observed after cardiac transplantation. The aim of this study was to compare the late disease process of transplant vasculopathy between coronary segments with early constrictive and expansive remodeling. Methods: Serial intravascular ultrasound data obtained annually for 4 years after transplantation in 38 transplant recipients was available. In 135 matched segments from 59 coronary arteries ultrasound images were digitized at 1-mm intervals. Mean values of the external elastic membrane (EEM), lumen and intimal areas were calculated. On the basis of a decrease or increase in EEM area within the first year after transplantation, we defined segments with early constrictive remodeling (CR, n = 71) or early expansive remodeling (ER, n = 64). Results: Annual changes in intimal area were similar between segments with early CR and ER throughout the follow-up period. However, during the second and third year, annual increases in EEM area were greater in segments with early CR than in segments with early ER (second year: 1.5 ± 2.7 vs 0.6 ± 2.8 mm 2 , p = 0.052; third year: 1.3 ± 2.5 vs −0.03 ± 2.6 mm 2 , p = 0.003). Despite this late expansion, segments with early CR showed a cumulative decrease in the EEM area and a greater lumen loss than segments with early ER (−2.5 ± 3.4 vs −0.6 ± 2.6 mm 2 , p Conclusions: In transplant vasculopathy, the late remodeling response was different between segments with early constrictive and expansive remodeling, despite similar intimal thickening. Early constriction caused an overall decrease in EEM area and greater loss of lumen during follow-up.
Composable Cellular Automata

Cellular automata (CA) provide a convenient approach to modeling a system comprised of homogeneous entities that, generally, have a spatial relationship with one another. CA are used to model systems that can be appropriately represented as a collection of interconnected automata. These networked automata may act as either a model representation of the entire system, or used to model a sub-system within a hybrid system. As the sub-systems within a hybrid system are disparate, so too can the models representing them be disparate using a multi-model approach. However, to take advantage of multi-modeling, CA and other models used to represent the sub-systems must be founded on system-theoretical principles. Furthermore, each modelâs formalism must account for input and output data exchange with other modeling formalisms. Therefore, to support modular synthesis of distinct CA models with non-CA models, a composable cellular automata (CCA) formalism is proposed. This formalism is provided as a domain-neutral, mathematical specification. The CCA is then exemplified as part of a multi-model, and the GRASS development environment is used to describe one possible implementation approach.
Economic growth in the American states: The end of convergence?

Abstract This paper uses an augmented Solow growth model to study convergence in per-capita incomes of the fifty states. Using annual time-series data from 1955 to 1987, we find that accumulations of private-sector capital and human capital contribute to changes m per-capita income. We also find strong evidence for the “catching-up” hypothesis for the period 1955–1980, where movements of labor and capital cause incomes in relatively poor states to approach those of relatively wealthy states. However, catching-up stops around 1980. We find that public capital for state and local governments plays an ambiguous role in the growth process, and that public capital productivity elasticities implied by our findings vary erratically. Our analysis also indicates that standard exo-geneity assumptions regarding factor flows are inappropriate for open labor and capital markets such as in the United States.
ON THE ANTIGENIC PROPERTIES OF HEMOGLOBIN

Sera produced by immunization with crystalline oxyhemoglobin react species-specifically with hemoglobin solutions. Evidence is presented that in this reaction the hemoglobin itself is the active substance. Conversion of oxyhemoglobin into methemoglobin, carbon-monoxy hemoglobin, or cyanhemoglobin does not alter the response to the precipitating immune serum. Not only the hemoglobin of homologous species, but also that of other species causes inhibition in greater or less degree of the precipitin reaction.
Daily rhythms of thermal tolerance in Rana clamitans (Anura: Ranidae) tadpoles

Abstract 1. 1. A daily rhythm of CTM variation was observed in Rana clamitans tadpoles over a 24-hr period. 2. 2. The daily variations in CTM appeared to anticipate daily changes in pond temperature. 3. 3. Tadpoles acclimated at 30°, 20°, and 10°, respectively, had significantly higher CTMs, indicating an adaptive ability to adjust to temperature changes in the field.
Barack Obama, being sharp: Indexical order in the pragmatics of precision-grip gesture

Gesture in political oratory and debate is renowned for its nonreferential indexical functions, for the way it purportedly can indicate qualities of speaker and materialize acts of persuasion — functions famously addressed in Quintilian’s classic writings but understudied today. I revisit this problematic through a case study of precision-grip (especially thumb to tip of forefinger) in Barack Obama’s debate performances (2004–2008). Cospeech gesture can index valorized attributes of speaker — not directly but through orders of semiotic motivation. In terms of first-order indexicality, precision-grip highlights discourse in respect of information structure, indicating focus. In debate, precision grip has undergone a degree of conventionalization and has reemerged as a second-order pragmatic resource for performatively “making a ‘sharp’, effective point.” Repetitions and parallelisms of precision grip in debate can, in turn, exhibit speaker-attributes, such as being argumentatively ‘sharp’, and from there may even partake in candidate branding.
Treatment of cryptorchidism with chorionic gonadotropic hormone and male sex hormone

Summary Seventeen boys with cryptorchidism, two of the cases bilateral, received a course of combined treatment with injections of chorionic gonadotropic hormone (pregnyl) and testosterone propionate (neo-hombreol). Each injection consisted of 500 R. U. of gonadotropic hormone with 5 or 10 mg. testosterone propionate. Nine (53 per cent) of the boys responded with complete descent of the testes. These included four of nine boys who had been treated with either hormone alone or successively without any effect, and five of eight boys who had not been treated previously. From these results it would appear that combined treatment is most effective. In consideration of the expense, and in order to avoid any unnecessary premature sexual stimulation, we feel that the procedure in handling such cases should be as follows: First, a course of treatment with chorionic gonadotropic hormone, from 300 to 500 R. U. three times a week up to a total of 10,000 units should be given. If no response results, a combined course of treatment should then be given after a rest period of from one to three months. If no satisfactory result is obtained, the cryptorchidism should be treated surgically. Treatment should be instituted before the boys are 10 years of age, preferably between 8 and 10 years.
On Consistency Checking of Spatial Relationships in Content-based Image Database Systems

In this paper we investigate the consistency problem for spatial relationships in content-based image database systems. We use the mathematically simple matrix representation approach to present an efficient (i.e., polynomial-time) algorithm for consistency checking of spatial relationships in an image. It is shown that, there exists an efficient algorithm to detectwhether, given a set SR of absolute spatial relationships, the maximal set of SR under R contains one pair of contradictory spatial relationships. The time required by it is at most a constant multiple of the time to compute the transitive reduction of a graph or to compute the transitive closure of a graph or to perform Boolean matrix multiplication, and thus is always bounded by time complexity O(n3) (and space complexity O(n2)), where n is the number of all involved objects. As a corollary, this detection algorithm can completely answer whether a given set of three-dimensional absolute spatial relationships is consistent.
Developmental Exposure to Lead Interferes with Glial and Neuronal Differential Gene Expression in the Rat Cerebellum

Exposure to lead (Pb) has been shown to disrupt developmental processes in the brain and to result in impaired brain function. In these studies, we examined the role of differential gene expression as a possible target site which may partially mediate Pb's neurotoxicity. Animals were lactationally exposed to 0.2% lead acetate from birth to weaning. On postnatal days (PND) 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, and 50, the cerebelli of control and Pb-exposed pups were examined, by Northern blot analysis for changes in the developmental profiles of neuronotypic and gliotypic markers: Growth-associated protein (GAP-43), myelin basic protein (MBP), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), while actin was monitored as an indicator of generalized effects on developmental gene expression and exhibited no significant changes following Pb exposure. On PND 9, Pb exposure resulted in a significant stimulation in the expression of the neuronal GAP-43 mRNA. Although Pb induced an early onset of MBP gene expression, the mRNA levels for both MBP and GFAP were decreased between PND 20 and 50, in Pb-exposed animals. These studies suggest that exposure to Pb may selectively interfere with critical developmental gene expression.
The cytotoxicity of N-pyridinyl and N-quinolinyl substituted derivatives of phthalimide and succinimide

Summary The N-pyridinyl and N-quinolinyl substituted derivatives of phthalimides and succinimides demonstrated cytotoxicity against the growth of a number of cultured cell lines. The substituted succinimides were more effective than the unsubstituted succinimide derivative in reducing cell growth. On the other hand, phthalimide demonstrated more potent cytotoxicity than its N-substituted derivatives. Three representative examples N-[2-pyridinyl-1-oxide) methyl] phthalimide 8 , 1-[N-2-phthalimidoethyl]-3,4-dihydroiso-quinoline 12 , and 1-[N-(2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-quinolinyl)]ethylphthalimide 14 were shown to inhibit L1210 leukemia DNA synthesis whereas RNA synthesis was not inhibited at 25–100 uM. All three agents inhibited the activities of DNA polymerase alpha, PRPP-amido transferase, nucleoside kinases, and dihydrofolate reductase. The cellular pool levels of d[GTP], d[CTP], and d[TTP] were reduced after 60 minutes incubation at 100 uM. The DNA molecule itself was not a target of these agents.
Manifold based sparse representation for facial understanding in natural images

Sparse representations, motivated by strong evidence of sparsity in the primate visual cortex, are gaining popularity in the computer vision and pattern recognition fields, yet sparse methods have not gained widespread acceptance in the facial understanding communities. A main criticism brought forward by recent publications is that sparse reconstruction models work well with controlled datasets, but exhibit coefficient contamination in natural datasets. To better handle facial understanding problems, specifically the broad category of facial classification problems, an improved sparse paradigm is introduced in this paper. Our paradigm combines manifold learning for dimensionality reduction, based on a newly introduced variant of semi-supervised Locality Preserving Projections, with a @?^1 reconstruction error, and a regional based statistical inference model. We demonstrate state-of-the-art classification accuracy for the facial understanding problems of expression, gender, race, glasses, and facial hair classification. Our method minimizes coefficient contamination and offers a unique advantage over other facial classification methods when dealing with occlusions. Experimental results are presented on multi-class as well as binary facial classification problems using the Labeled Faces in the Wild, Cohn-Kanade, Extended Cohn-Kanade, and GEMEP-FERA datasets demonstrating how and under what conditions sparse representations can further the field of facial understanding.
Futility: clinical decisions at the end-of-life in women with ovarian cancer

Abstract Objective The purpose of this article is to provide a review of the clinical meaning of futility, discuss current normative uses of futility assessments and propose guidelines for clinicians to use in dialogue regarding treatment decisions for patients with advanced ovarian cancers. Methods We performed a MEDLINE literature search of relevant clinical articles for this review that discussed futility and the application to women with ovarian cancer. Results Medical futility refers to treatments that serve no physiologic, quantitative or qualitative meaningful purpose. Despite the growth in options focused on symptom management rather than disease eradication, including hospice programs and the more recent development of palliative care programs, there is evidence that many patients continue to receive aggressive interventions, including chemotherapy, until days before their death. While the legal and moral acceptability of treatment limitation is well established, clarity in establishing goals of care, timing of the transition from cure to palliation and communication of specific decisions to withhold further aggressive interventions remain problematic for both patients and clinicians. Conclusions There continues to be a distinct need for both better understanding of the dynamics of patient choice and increased education of physicians in addressing end-of-life care planning. It is essential that we continue to test specific communication and supportive interventions that will improve our ability to help patients avoid the burden of futile therapy while maintaining hope.
Partial hydrolysis of Ti(III) and Ti(IV) chlorides in the presence of [PPh4]Cl

Partial hydrolysis of Ti(III) and Ti(IV) chlorides in the presence of [PPh 4 ]Cl yielded a series of new complexes. Ti(III) chloride was obtained from reduction of TiCl 4 with 1 equiv. of HSnBu 3 . In CH 2 Cl 2 in the presence of TiCl 4 , the hydrolysis reaction led to the formation of a Ti(III)Ti(IV) mixed valent complex, namely, heptanuclear [PPh 4 ] 3 [Ti 7 Cl 19 O 3 ] ( 2 ) containing three face-sharing Ti 2 units and three edge-sharing Ti 2 units. When the reaction was conducted in acetone, only two Ti(III) complexes, namely, dinuclear edge-sharing [PPh 4 ] 2 [Ti 2 Cl 7 (OH)(H 2 O)(OCMe 2 )] ( 3 ) and mononuclear [TiCl 4 (H 2 O) 3 ] ( 4 ), were obtained. The hydrolysis products of TiCl 4 in the presence of [PPh 4 ]Cl include a one-dimensional polymeric compound, {[PPh 4 ][Ti 2 Cl 6 X]O} n (X  Cl, OH) ( 5 ), and a mononuclear complex, [PPh 4 ][TiCl 5 (H 2 O)] ( 6 ). The simple addition product, [PPh 4 ] 2 [TiCl 6 ]] ( 7 ), was also isolated from this reaction Compounds 2–7 were all characterized by X-ray crystallography.
Dissociation and recombination of oxygen atoms produced in a microwave discharge. Part II. Theoretical calculations

In this study, the degree of dissociation and recombination of oxygen atoms produced by a microwave discharge in oxygen is examined by comparing a theoretical model of the kinetic mechanisms to chemical titration data. The results show that a one-dimensional, temperature-dependent model of the neutral species of the system can predict the oxygen atom concentration profile as measured by nitrogen dioxide titration. The model also indicates that the temperature of the gas is approximately 1000 K and that an overall gas temperature and velocity increase is due to electrical heating by the microwave discharge and not due to the enthalpy change of the species in the system.
Biodegradation of Residual Dense Nonaqueous-Phase Liquid Tetrachloroethene : Effects on Mass Transfer

ABSTRACT The mass emissions rate of contaminants from nonaqueous-phase liquids (NAPLs) is a driving factor in remediation efforts, whether those efforts are designed to remove, transform, or stabilize the entrapped NAPL or down-gradient aqueous concentrations. Enhancement of mass flux from NAPL source zones has been previously reported in the presence of microbial reductive dechlorination activity in systems containing NAPL with a low proportion of tetrachloroethene (PCE) or a low residual saturation (e.g., 2%). The results reported here demonstrate reductive dechlorination of PCE at residual saturations of 35%, obtained under two different column flow velocities and NAPL configurations. Mass flux in biotic columns was approximately 45% greater than that in uninoculated columns, due to both the presence of daughter products and higher concentrations of PCE in the effluent from biotic columns. Daughter product concentrations were greater in columns with NAPL emplaced only in the lower quarter compared to t...
Non-archimedean infinitesimals, transcendentals and categorical inputs in linear programming and data envelopment analysis

Two problems in linear programming associated with data envelopment analysis (DEA) namely, employing non-archimedean infinitesimals, transcendemals (‘big Ms’) and categorical variables (in a new non-archimedean formulation) are addressed. A new more sophisticated pricing procedure as part of an adjacent extreme point algorithm solves these efficiently in the base field. Employing this in Charnes's non-archimedean simplex algorithm led to a ninefold increase in computational speed on large DEA problems with about 1000 decision-making units. Additionally, computational failures due to cycling and/or conditioning instabilities were eliminated.
Democracy and the governing party (执政党): A theoretical perspective

The Fourth Plenum of the Communist Party of China held in September 2004 outlined a course of reform aimed at establishing the Party as a permanent governing party (zhizheng dang 执政党). This aim shares some of the values and procedures of legislative democracy, but is fundamentally different in structure. There are no existing cases of party-state democracy as envisioned in the governing party idea, so the theoretical question is asked, is party-state democracy possible? The paper considers the course of development and the limitations of the theory of legislative democracy and contrasts it to the course of Chinese political development. It then presents the essential elements of a democratic system, concluding with a discussion of the feasibility of party-state democracy.
Differences in the time course of haloperidol-induced up-regulation of rat striatal and mesolimbic dopamine receptors.

Abstract Regional differences in the onset and persistence of increased dopamine D2 receptor density in rat brain were studied following daily injections of haloperidol for 3, 7, 14, or 28 days. Striatal [ 3 H] - spiroperidol Bmax values were significantly increased following 3 – 28 days of haloperidol treatment, as compared to saline controls. Olfactory tubercle Bmax values were significantly increased only after 14 or 28 days of haloperidol treatment. Nucleus accumbens Bmax values were significantly increased only in the 14-day drug treatment group, suggesting that dopamine D2 receptor up-regulation in nucleus accumbens may reverse during ongoing neuroleptic treatment. These findings suggest that important differences in adaptive responses to chronic dopamine blockade may exist between dopaminergic synapses located in various rat brain regions.
Diagnosis of human cytomegalovirus disease

Summary Standardization of the various assays used for diagnosis of HCMV disease in different laboratories is a necessary step before antiviral response to specific therapy can be evaluated. In addition, in order to interpret the results obtained when different methods are used to quantify HCMV in clinical samples, studies performed with in-house nucleic acid amplification assays must be standardized by use of a common set of calibrators, standards, or panels. Table 1 provides a summary of the current commercially available molecular diagnostic test kits for HCMV.
The Number of Congruence Classes in Mn(Fq)

Call matrices A and B congruent when PAPt = B for some invertible P. Extending a result of Gow, this paper shows that the number of congruence classes in the n × n matrices over Fq is the coefficient of tn in formula] (where e = 1 for even q and e = 2 for odd q. For even q, the number of classes where B?1Bt is unipotent is equal to the number of partitions of n.
Instability Modelling Of Gas Lasers

Instabilities in various classes of lasers are now well recognized phenomena, and in recent years these phenomena have become increasingly well understood. Tor most purposes gas lasers have been found to the easiest systems to study, and many of the instability effects found in gas lasers have been at least qualitatively modelled. In our meeting presentation we review some of the basic concepts of laser instability modelling with emphasis on results pertaining to gas lasers. The more qualitative aspects of the presentation are briefly summarized in these notes.
Assembling a prototype resonance electrical impedance spectroscopy system for breast tissue signal detection: preliminary assessment

ABSTRACT Using electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technology to detect breast abnormalities in general and cancer in particular has been attracting research interests for decades. Large clinical te sts suggest that current EIS systems can achieve high specificity (  90%) at a relatively low sensitivity ranging from 15% to 35%. In this study, we explore a new resonance frequency based electrical impedance spectroscopy (REIS) technology to measure breast tissue EIS signals in vivo, which aims to be more sensitive to small tissue changes. Through collaboration between our imaging research group and a commercial company, a unique prototype REIS system has been assembled and preliminary signal acquisition has commenced. This REIS system has two detec tion probes mounted in the two ends of a Y-shape support device with probe separation of 60 mm. During REIS measurement, one probe touches the nipple and the other touches to an outer point of the breast. The electronic system con tinuously generates sweeps of mu lti-frequency electrical pulses ranging from 100 to 4100 kHz. The maximum electric voltage and the current applied to the probes are 1.5V and 30mA, respectively. Once a record command is entered, multi-frequency sweeps are recorded every 12 seconds until the program receives a stop recording command. In our imagin g center, we have collected REIS measurements from 150 women under an IRB approved protocol. The database includes 58 biopsy cases, 78 screening negative cases, and other recalled cases (for additional imaging pr ocedures). We measured eight signal f eatures from the effective REIS sweep of each breast. We applied a multi-feature based artificial neural network (ANN) to classify between biopsy and normal non-biopsy breasts. The ANN performance is evaluated using a leave-one-out validation method and ROC analysis. We conducted two experiments. The first experiment attempted to classify 58 biopsy breasts and 58 non-biopsy breasts acquired on 58 women each having one breast recommended for biopsy. The second experiment attempted to classify 58 biopsy breasts and 58 negative breasts from the set of screening negative cases. The areas under ROC curves are 0.679 ± 0.033 and 0.606 ± 0.035 for the first and the second experiment, respectively. The preliminary results demonstrate (1) even with this rudimentary system with only one paired probes there is a measurable signal of changes in breast tissue demonstrating the feasibility of applying REIS technology for identifying at least some women with highly suspicious breast abnormalities and (2) the electromagnetic asymmetry between two breasts may be more sensitive in detecting changes in the abnormal breast. To further improve the REIS system performance, we are currently designing a new REIS system with mult iple electrical probes and a more sophisticated analysis scheme.
Advances in understanding visual cortex plasticity.

Visual cortical plasticity can be either rapid, occurring in response to abrupt changes in neural activity, or slow, occurring over days as a homeostatic process for adapting neuronal responsiveness. Recent advances have shown that the magnitude and polarity of rapid synaptic modifications are regulated by neuromodulators, while homeostatic modifications can occur through regulation of cytokine actions or N -methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunit composition. Synaptic and homeostatic plasticity together produce the normal physiological response to monocular impairments. In vivo studies have now overturned the dogma that robust plasticity is limited to an early critical period. Indeed, rapid physiological plasticity in the adult can be enabled by prior, experience-driven anatomical rearrangements or through pharmacological manipulations of the epigenome.
Improved Syntiietic Routes to Molybdenum-Nitrido Compounds

Abstract Convenient synthetic routes to the compounds MoBr4, MoNBr3, and MoNRr2(bpy) are described using Mo(CO)6 Br2, (CH3)3SiN3, and 2,2′-bipyridine as inexpensive and readily available starting materials. These one-pot syntheses produce analytically pure compounds in multigram quantities with high yields under mild conditions. Use of (CH3)3SiN3 as a nitride source is preferable to that of unstable and explosivc IN3 which has been utilized in a previous synthesis of MoNBr3.
Thermodynamic and transport properties of single-crystalline UMGa5 (M=Fe,Co,Ni,Ru,Rh,Pd,Os,Ir,Pt)

We report the results of magnetic susceptibility, specific heat, and electrical resistivity measurements on UMGa5 (M=Fe,Co,Ni,Ru,Rh,Pd,Os,Ir,Pt) single crystals. Antiferromagnetic ordering was observed for M=Ni, Pd, and Pt, with ordering temperatures TN=80K, 28K, and 23.5K, respectively. For the UMGa5 compounds with transition metals from the Fe and Co columns, itinerant paramagnetic behavior is observed. The evolution of this behavior is discussed in terms of f-ligand interaction with an emphasis on the role played by f-d hybridization. © 2005 The American Physical Society.
Simulcast packet transmission in ad hoc networks

In previous work, unequal error-protection techniques have been applied to improve the throughput of a wireless communication system in which a transmission is received by several radios with different capabilities. For instance, these capabilities may correspond to differences in path loss, fading, or interference. By taking advantage of the broadcast nature of the channel, additional messages for the more-capable receivers can be included on transmissions to the less-capable receivers at very little cost (in terms of required energy at the transmitter or error probabilities at the receivers). This technique has been termed simulcasting or multicast signaling. In this paper, we consider the use of these techniques in an ad hoc network. These techniques impact the link throughput, end-to-end throughput, and network connectivity. We investigate how the choice of parameters for the simulcasting technique affects these network performance metrics. The results indicate that a properly chosen simulcasting technique can improve the link and end-to-end throughput in wireless ad hoc networks with only a slight degradation in other metrics, such as network connectivity.
Educating Students to Create Trustworthy Systems

Computer science's long-standing tradition of computer security education has focused primarily on designing secure and reliable systems that can ensure information confidentiality, integrity, and availability. This tradition is geared toward preparing students for typical paradigms, such as writing secure code, providing authentication and access control, and developing policies to limit exposure to vulnerabilities and protect users' rights. Faculty and industry must find novel, cross-disciplinary approaches to educating security professionals to fully address this array of issues. In this article, we analyze barriers to effective security education and offer suggestions for improving cooperation among computer science, business management, information systems. and other technology departments.
Cultivation of Ehrlichia chaffeensis in mouse embryo, vero, BGM, and L929 cells and study of Ehrlichia-induced cytopathic effect and plaque formation

We successfully propagated Ehrlichia chaffeensis in mouse embryo, Vero, BGM, and L929 cells inoculated with host cell-free ehrlichiae, indicating that E. chaffeensis is capable of entry, survival, and growth in a relatively wide range of cell types derived from different species. We demonstrated rapid adaptation of E. chaffeensis in these cell lines, so that typical morulae could be detected as early as 5 days after inoculation. E. chaffeensis-induced cytopathic effect with different morphological characteristics in mouse embryo, Vero, and L929 cells. The earliest cytopathic effect appeared in untreated and irradiated mouse embryo cells at 4 days postinoculation. As the infected foci gradually expanded, the center of the foci showed necrotic cells with pyknotic nuclei and degraded morulae. E. chaffeensis caused cell lysis in untreated and irradiated L929 cells, with formation of distinct, round macroscopic plaques at 18 days postinoculation. In untreated and irradiated Vero cells, E. chaffeensis produced infected foci composed of loosely interwoven necrotic cells, spaces of detached cells, cells filled with morulae, and uninfected cells, resulting in characteristic reticular foci. Irradiated cells generally contained many large morulae and presented larger cytopathic foci. DH82 and BGM cells did not develop obvious cytopathic foci under the conditions employed. The findings reported herein offer the opportunity to study the pathogenic mechanism of cell injury by E. chaffeensis, the basis for quantification of infectious E. chaffeensis, improved approaches for recovery of ehrlichiae from human patients and tick hosts, and additional methods for cultivation of E. chaffeensis for molecular analysis.
Double Jeopardy: Why Latinos Were Hit Hardest by the US Foreclosure Crisis

Recent research has demonstrated that Latinos have been hit hardest by the US foreclosure crisis. In this article, I combine place stratification and spatial assimilation theory to explain why Latinos suffered a devastating double blow during the foreclosure crisis. Using a national sample of borrowers who received risky mortgage loans during the boom and following them through the crisis, I find that Latinos were most likely subject to high-cost subprime lending and especially risky low-/no-documentation lending as Latino suburbanization and immigration peaked along with national home prices. As a result, while Latino borrowers were no less likely to lose their homes to foreclosure than blacks prior to the crisis or in the Rust Belt, they were significantly more likely to lose their homes after the crisis began and in the Sand States of Arizona, California, Florida, and Nevada. Taken together, the results demonstrate the risk of rising Latino immigration, suburbanization, and homeownership during the stages of the housing boom and foreclosure crisis.
Functionalized fullerene cations {R–C60}+ from a theoretical point of view

The first comprehensive theoretical investigation of a series of functionalized fullerene cations, {R–C60}+, where R = H, CH3, CH2Cl, CHCl2, and CCl3, is accomplished. A detailed consideration of conformational energetic profiles of these systems resulted in the structures of most stable conformers that fit all available experimental data. The trends in stability of {R–C60}+ cations as well as transition barriers for migration of alkyl groups over the C60-surface are provided. A thorough study of energetics of {R–C60}+ is augmented by in-depth investigation of their electronic structures and aromaticity. As the final part of this study, the detailed comparison of structures, energetics and properties of {R–C60}+ with those of corannulene cations, {R–hub-C20H10}+, is performed at the same level of theory. The similarities and differences between the surface functionalized ball- and bowl-shaped carbocations are illuminated.
Selective Vitamin D Receptor Modulators (SVIMS) as Potential AdjuvantTherapeutic Agents

Copyright: © 2013 Li W. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, D3) is one of the most important forms of vitamin D in human health [1-4]. There are two sources for human beings to obtain vitamin D3. The first source is the conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) in the skin to pre-vitamin D3 by UVB irradiation from the sunlight, followed by thermal isomerization to produce vitamin D3 (Figure 1) [5]. This is a tightly regulated process by the human body, and it is impossible to result in vitamin D3 overdose. The second source is through diet supplements. Human body cannot regulate this source of intake well, and vitamin D3 overdose and subsequent toxicity could occur. Interestingly, vitamin D3 itself is not the biologically active form. It must be first hydroxylated at the C25 position in the liver to produce 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3), followed by a second hydroxylation at the C1 position in the kidney or by monocyte-macrophages in the immune system to produce the biologically active form 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) (Figure 1). 1,25(OH)2D3 binds to the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) which ultimately lead to its various biological functions (Figure 1).
"Reading" the Painting: Exploring Visual Literacy in the Primary Grades.

Traditional literacy practices and educational policymakers define reading as a process of vocabulary recognition and print-based decoding. This perspective is especially prevalent in the primary-grade literacy classroom. Yet, a growing movement sees literacy encompassing not only printed text, but a wide range of cultural, technological, and visual experiences. In this article, a teacher discusses her efforts to incorporate this broadened definition of reading in a second-grade classroom. In an innovative activity, students created personal, written interpretations of a wide range of artwork from the National Gallery in London, England. Without historical and contextual clues about the artists or paintings, students used critical thinking skills to craft interesting and unique stories about the artwork. This project illustrates the potential of incorporating visual literacy into a primary-grade classroom and how responsive even young children can be to an expanded view of literacy. The author details the project's background, implementation steps, and outcomes.
An integrated approach to verification, validation, and accredition of models and simulations

In an M&S-based systems acquisition, computer simulation is used throughout the development process not just as an analysis tool but also as a development tool. In general, development of a system capability using M&S-based systems development will result in multiple models or simulations to meet specific needs. The verification, validation and accreditation (VV&A) of each these tools is integral to M&S development. Integrating verification and validation (V&V) activities with M&S development and then integrating the VV&A activities for all of the M&S resources that support a program provides a cost effective approach to ensure the necessary confidence in M&S results within the time and resources available. This paper presents such an integrated approach to VV&A from a system perspective and identifies the relationships between the M&S resources in an integrated V&V program.
A TIME AND MOTION STUDY OF THE ANAESTHETIST'S INTRAOPERATIVE TIME

A time and motion study was made of anaesthetists during 32 surgical procedures. Thirteen activities performed by the anaesthetist were defined for the study. Time and event data were recorded electronically and analysed by digital computer. Activity and link analysis techniques were used to analyse the data. Only 25% of intraoperative time was spent observing the physiological state of the patient. Seventy-five percent was spent in secondary or indirect activities. Direct observation of the patient was least in the middle of the procedure when the anaesthetist was performing secondary activities. Prudent use of personnel, machines, or both, to perform activities not requiring full medical knowledge and training should increase the anaesthetist's ability to focus full attention on the state of the patient and may improve patient care.
Association of Chiari malformation type I and tethered cord syndrome: preliminary results of sectioning filum terminale

Abstract Objective The pathogenesis of CM-I is incompletely understood. We describe an association of CM-I and TCS that occurs in a subset of patients with normal size of the PCF. Methods The prevalence of TCS was determined in a consecutively accrued cohort of 2987 patients with CM-I and 289 patients with low-lying cerebellar tonsils (LLCT). Findings in 74 children and 244 adults undergoing SFT were reviewed retrospectively. Posterior cranial fossa size and volume were measured using reconstructed 2D computed tomographic scans and MR images. Results were compared to those in 155 age- and sex-matched healthy control individuals and 280 patients with generic CM-I. The relationships of neural and osseus structures at the CCJ and TLJ were investigated morphometrically on MR images. Intraoperative CDU was used to measure anatomical structures and CSF flow in the lumbar theca. Results Tethered cord syndrome was present in 408 patients with CM-I (14%) and 182 patients with LLCT (63%). In 318 patients undergoing SFT, there were no significant differences in the size or volume of the PCF as compared to healthy control individuals. Morphometric measurements demonstrated elongation of the brain stem (mean, 8.3 mm; P P P P P P P Conclusions Chiari malformation type I/TCS appears to be a unique clinical entity that occurs as a continuum with LLCT/TCS and is distinguished from generic CM-I by enlargement of the FM and the absence of a small PCF. Distinctive features include elongation and downward displacement of the hindbrain, normal position of the CMD, tight FT, and reduced CSF flow in the lumbar theca. There is preliminary evidence that SFT can reverse moderate degrees of tonsillar ectopia and is appropriate treatment for cerebellar ptosis after Chiari surgery in this cohort.
Analog peptides of type II collagen can suppress arthritis in HLA-DR4 (DRB1*0401) transgenic mice.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease associated with the recognition of self proteins secluded in diarthrodial joints. We have previously established that mice transgenic for the human DR genes associated with RA are susceptible to collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and we have identified a determinant of type II collagen (CII263–270) that triggers T-cell immune responses in these mice. We have also determined that an analog of CII263–270 would suppress disease in DR1 transgenic mice. Because the immunodominant determinant is the same for both DR1 transgenic and DR4 transgenic mice, we attempted to determine whether the analog peptide that was suppressive in DR1 transgenic mice would also be effective in suppressing CIA in DR4 transgenic mice. We treated DR4 transgenic mice with two analog peptides of CII that contained substitutions in the core of the immunodominant determinant: CII256–276 (F263N, E266D) and CII256–270 (F263N, E266A). Mice were observed for CIA, and T-cell proliferative responses were determined. Either peptide administered at the time of immunization with CII significantly downregulated arthritis. Binding studies demonstrated that replacement of the phenylalanine residue in position 263 of the CII peptide with asparagine significantly decreased the affinity of the peptide for the DR4 molecule. In contrast, replacement of the glutamic acid residue in position 266 with aspartic acid or with alanine had differing results. Aspartic acid reduced the affinity (35-fold) whereas alanine did not. Both peptides were capable of suppressing CIA. With the use of either peptide, CII256–276 (F263N, E266D) or CII256–270 (F263N, E266A), the modulation of CIA was associated with an increase in T-cell secretion of IL-4 together with a decrease in IFN-γ. We have identified two analog peptides that are potent suppressors of CIA in DR4 transgenic mice. These experiments represent the first description of an analog peptide of CII recognized by T cells in the context of HLA-DR4 that can suppress autoimmune arthritis.
Runtime verification of .NET contracts

We propose a method for implementing behavioral interface specifications on the .NET platform. Our interface specifications are expressed as executable model programs. Model programs can be run either as stand-alone simulations or used as contracts to check the conformance of an implementation class to its specification. We focus on the latter, which we call runtime verification.In our framework, model programs are expressed in the new specification language AsmL. We describe how AsmL can be used to describe contracts independently from any implementation language, how AsmL allows properties of component interaction to be specified using mandatory calls, and how AsmL is used to check the behavior of a component written in any of the .NET languages, such as VB, C#, or C++.
An Empirical Bayes Approach to Subscore Augmentation: How Much Strength Can We Borrow?:

This article examines a subscore augmentation procedure. The approach uses empirical Bayes adjustments and is intended to improve the overall accuracy of measurement when information is scant. Simulations examined the impact of the method on subscale scores in a variety of realistic conditions. The authors focused on two popular scoring methods: summed scores and item response theory scale scores for summed scores. Simulation conditions included number of subscales, length (hence, reliability) of subscales, and the underlying correlations between scales. To examine the relative performance of the augmented scales, the authors computed root mean square error, reliability, percentage correctly identified as falling within specific proficiency ranges, and the percentage of simulated individuals for whom the augmented score was closer to the true score than was the nonaugmented score. The general findings and limitations of the study are discussed and areas for future research are suggested.