cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
EntrapNet: a Blockchain-Based Verification Protocol for Trustless Computing

In this paper, we propose a blockchain-based computing verification protocol, called EntrapNet, for distributed shared computing networks, an emerging underlying network for many internet of things (IoT) applications. EntrapNet borrows the idea from the practice of entrapment in criminal law to reduce the possibility of receiving incorrect computing results from trustless service providers who have offered the computing resources. Furthermore, we mathematically optimize EntrapNet to deal with the fundamental tradeoff of a network: security and efficiency. We present an asymptotic optimal solution to this optimization. It will be seen that EntrapNet can be performed as an independent and low-cost layer atop of any trustless network that requires outsourced computing, thus making secure computing affordable and practical.
Performance of Wall-Modeled LES with Boundary-Layer-Conforming Grids for External Aerodynamics

We investigate the error scaling and computational cost of wall-modeled large-eddy simulation (WMLES) for external aerodynamic applications. The NASA Juncture Flow is used as representative of an a...
On the Rényi Differential Privacy of the Shuffle Model

The central question studied in this paper is Renyi Differential Privacy (RDP) guarantees for general discrete local randomizers in the shuffle privacy model. In the shuffle model, each of the n clients randomizes its response using a local differentially private (LDP) mechanism and the untrusted server only receives a random permutation (shuffle) of the client responses without association to each client. The principal result in this paper is the first direct RDP bounds for general discrete local randomization in the shuffle privacy model, and we develop new analysis techniques for deriving our results which could be of independent interest. In applications, such an RDP guarantee is most useful when we use it for composing several private interactions. We numerically demonstrate that, for important regimes, with composition our bound yields an improvement in privacy guarantee by a factor of $8\times$ over the state-of-the-art approximate Differential Privacy (DP) guarantee (with standard composition) for shuffle models. Moreover, combining with Poisson subsampling, our result leads to at least $10\times$ improvement over subsampled approximate DP with standard composition.
Accuracy-Efficiency Trade-Offs and Accountability in Distributed ML Systems

Trade-offs between accuracy and efficiency pervade law, public health, and other non-computing domains, which have developed policies to guide how to balance the two in conditions of uncertainty. While computer science also commonly studies accuracy-efficiency trade-offs, their policy implications remain poorly examined. Drawing on risk assessment practices in the US, we argue that, since examining these trade-offs has been useful for guiding governance in other domains, we need to similarly reckon with these trade-offs in governing computer systems. We focus our analysis on distributed machine learning systems. Understanding the policy implications in this area is particularly urgent because such systems, which include autonomous vehicles, tend to be high-stakes and safety-critical. We 1) describe how the trade-off takes shape for these systems, 2) highlight gaps between existing US risk assessment standards and what these systems require to be properly assessed, and 3) make specific calls to action to facilitate accountability when hypothetical risks concerning the accuracy-efficiency trade-off become realized as accidents in the real world. We close by discussing how such accountability mechanisms encourage more just, transparent governance aligned with public values.
Topological protection in a strongly nonlinear interface lattice

Mechanical topological insulators are well understood for linear and weakly nonlinear systems, however traditional analysis methods break down for strongly nonlinear systems since linear methods cannot be applied in that case. We study one such system in the form of a one-dimensional mechanical analog of the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger interface model with strong nonlinearity of the cubic form. The frequency-energy dependence of the nonlinear bulk modes and topologically insulated mode is explored using numerical continuation of the system's nonlinear normal modes (NNMs), and the linear stability of the NNMs is investigated using Floquet multipliers and Krein signature analysis. We find that the nonlinear topological lattice supports a family of topologically insulated NNMs that are parametrized by the total energy of the system and are stable within a range of frequencies. Next, it is shown that empirical calculations of the geometric Zak phase can define an energy threshold to predict the excitability of the nonlinear topological mode, and that this threshold coincides with the energy at which the topological NNM intersects the linear bulk spectrum. These predictions are validated with numerical simulations of the nonlinear topological system. These results are also tested for parametric perturbations that preserve and break chirality in the system. Thus, we provide a method for analyzing and predicting the existence of topologically insulated modes in a strongly nonlinear lattice based on the physical observable of band topology.
Spectral Fiber-Photometry Derives Hemoglobin-Absorption Changes for Accurate Measurement of Fluorescent Sensor Activity

Fiber-photometry is an emerging technique for recording fluorescent sensor activity in the brain. Here we demonstrate significant hemoglobin-absorption artifacts that may be misinterpreted as sensor activity changes. Because hemoglobin exists in nearly every location in the brain and its concentration varies over time, such artifacts could significantly impede the accuracy of photometry recording results. We present a novel use of spectral photometry technique and propose a computational method to quantify photon absorption effect from an activity-independent fluorescent protein, which can be used to derive oxy- and deoxy-hemoglobin concentration changes and correct target sensor activities across spectra. We further demonstrate the utility of this method for delineating brain regional differences in neurovascular transfer functions and shed light on the interpretation of hemodynamic-based neuroimaging data.
Superconductivity in a quintuple-layer square-planar nickelate

Since the discovery of high-temperature superconductivity in copper oxide materials1, there have been sustained efforts to both understand the origins of this phase and discover new cuprate-like superconducting materials2. One prime materials platform has been the rare-earth nickelates and, indeed, superconductivity was recently discovered in the doped compound Nd0.8Sr0.2NiO2 (ref. 3). Undoped NdNiO2 belongs to a series of layered square-planar nickelates with chemical formula Ndn+1NinO2n+2 and is known as the ‘infinite-layer’ (n = ∞) nickelate. Here we report the synthesis of the quintuple-layer (n = 5) member of this series, Nd6Ni5O12, in which optimal cuprate-like electron filling (d8.8) is achieved without chemical doping. We observe a superconducting transition beginning at ~13 K. Electronic structure calculations, in tandem with magnetoresistive and spectroscopic measurements, suggest that Nd6Ni5O12 interpolates between cuprate-like and infinite-layer nickelate-like behaviour. In engineering a distinct superconducting nickelate, we identify the square-planar nickelates as a new family of superconductors that can be tuned via both doping and dimensionality. The authors report a superconducting transition beginning at 13 K in films of the quintuple-layer nickelate Nd6Ni5O12.
Variant interpretation using population databases: lessons from gnomAD

Reference population databases are an essential tool in variant and gene interpretation. Their use guides the identification of pathogenic variants amidst the sea of benign variation present in every human genome, and supports the discovery of new disease-gene relationships. The Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD) is currently the largest and most widely used publicly available collection of population variation from harmonized sequencing data. The data is available through the online gnomAD browser (https://gnomad.broadinstitute.org/) that enables rapid and intuitive variant analysis. This review provides guidance on the content of the gnomAD browser, and its usage for variant and gene interpretation. We introduce key features including allele frequency, per-base expression levels, constraint scores, and variant co-occurrence, alongside guidance on how to use these in analysis, with a focus on the interpretation of candidate variants and novel genes in rare disease. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Laboratory Maintenance of Coxiella burnetii

Coxiella burnetii, an obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacterium, is the agent of Q fever, a self-limited flu-like illness that may also present as chronic endocarditis. The ability to persist in the environment at a low infectious dose in aerosols resulted in the classification of C. burnetii as a BSL-3 select agent. Routine propagation of this agent is in embryonated eggs or tissue culture. Purification from host tissues includes multiple differential centrifugations to separate bacteria from host material. Infection of host cells is routinely verified microscopically by using Gimenez stain, fluorescent dyes, or immunofluorescence antibody (IFA) staining. Identification of C. burnetii DNA in host material is measured by PCR. Quantification of purified C. burnetii is accomplished through conversion of optical density to dry weight or, more precisely, by RT-PCR to determine genome equivalents. Serum antibody titer to C. burnetii is determined by microagglutination assay or ELISA. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 15:6C.1.1-6C.1.16. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Keywords: rickettsiology; molecular pathogenesis; intracellular bacteria
The influence of personality traits and persuasive messages on entrepreneurial intention: A cross‐cultural comparison

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine persuasion and personality variables as predictors of entrepreneurial intention in a cross‐cultural sample.Design/methodology/approach – Undergraduates in the USA and the Republic of Ireland completed measures of personal efficacy, achievement motivation, ambiguity tolerance, attitudes toward entrepreneurship, and entrepreneurial intention.Findings – The results suggest that the decision to become an entrepreneur comes about differently in different cultures. US participants appear to perceive entrepreneurship as a societally sanctioned and appropriate outlet for their achievement motivation. While achievement motivation correlated with entrepreneurial intention for the US participants, this result did not obtain for the Irish subjects. In both cultures, those who have come to believe that being an entrepreneur is consistent with their self‐image showed strong entrepreneurial intention independent of their other beliefs about entrepreneurship. This study s...
The Gow-Gates mandibular block: Evaluation after 4,275 cases

The Gow-Gates mandibular block, introduced in the United States in 1973, represents the first new approach to intraoral regional anesthesia in many years. The technique is being taught at most United States dental schools. This article presents a clinical evaluation of the Gow-Gates technique after 5 years of application and more than 4,000 cases. Advantages of this technique over the conventional inferior alveolar nerve block include a greater success rate, decreased positive aspiration rate, and fewer postinjection problems.
An algorithmic framework for improving heuristic solutions: Part II. A new version of the stochastic traveling salesman problem

Abstract The algorithmic framework developed for improving heuristic solutions of the new version of deterministic TSP [Comput. Chem. Eng. (2004)] is extended to the stochastic case. To verify the algorithmic framework for the stochastic case, a new variant of the stochastic TSP with an optional task, in which key parameters (cost matrix) of the problem change according to an underlying Markov model, is introduced in this work as a prototypical stochastic optimization problem. The optional task is the performing of an “investigation” which improves the information for decision making at some cost. The stochastic dynamic programming is performed in the subset of the states that is obtained by simulating a set of heuristics. The proposed algorithmic framework finds the approximated optimal cost-to-go only for the states in the subset. This reduces the computational time dramatically compared to the stochastic DP in the entire states space, without significant loss in the solution quality. The results show that the algorithmic framework also works efficiently for stochastic problems by improving the heuristic policies for making decisions for different realizations of the Markov process.
Physical layer security from inter-session interference in large wireless networks

Physical layer secrecy in wireless networks in the presence of eavesdroppers of unknown location is considered. In contrast to prior schemes, which have expended energy in the form of cooperative jamming to enable secrecy, we develop schemes where multiple transmitters send their signals in a cooperative fashion to confuse the eavesdroppers. Hence, power is not expended on “artificial noise”; rather, the signal of a given transmitter is protected by the aggregate interference produced by the other transmitters. We introduce a two-hop strategy for the case of equal path-loss between all pairs of nodes, and then consider its embedding within a multi-hop approach for the general case of an extended network. In each case, we derive an achievable number of eavesdroppers that can be present in the region while secure communication between all sources and intended destinations is ensured.
Conversion of a powerful frameshifter acridine to a base-pair substitution analog.

Abstract The frameshift mutagenic mechanism for acridines has been attributed to the intercalative type of association between acridines and nucleic acids. However, it appears that these molecular details are insufficient to explain the frameshifting process. In order to design an effective drug probe to analyze the in vivo interactions of acridines leading to frameshifting, an azide analog of 9-aminoacridine was studied in Ames' Salmonella strains. The surprising findings were that by substituting an amino group at the 9 ring position with an azido group, the mutagenicity was converted from frameshifter to base-pair substitution.
Do State Examinations Measure Teacher Quality

This study investigates teacher content knowledge of candidates enrolled in an online graduate teacher certification programme. Descriptive data and linear regression were used to draw conclusions about the content area knowledge of individuals in the sample and the significance of the predictors examined. Descriptive data show 1/3 of the 8–12 life science candidates and 2/5 of the 8–12 mathematics candidates fail the state content examination although a transcript analysis indicates candidates have strong content preparation, high grade point averages and recent coursework. Results of a linear regression analysis indicate, upper‐level content area coursework, grade point average and the time elapsed between the initial attempt on the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards content test and the completion of the last upper‐level course in the content area were statistically significant predictors of success on the Texas Examinations for Educator Standards (TExES) for 8–12 life science and 8–12 mathematic...
Age-related changes in sensitivity of the postpubertal ear to acoustic trauma.

Abstract Although the age of the postpubertal mammal is typically ignored in evaluating the damaging effects of noise on the ear, it was shown to account for over 65% of the variability in the mouse. 44 inbred CBA/J mice, ranging in age from 60 (early postpuberty) to 360 days (late middle age), were tested for cochlear AP thresholds at frequencies from 2 to 64 kHz. They were then subjected to 5 min of a 124 dB octave band (12–24 kHz) noise. Although all the mice had similar pre-exposure thresholds, the extent of noise-induced AP threshold elevation and the frequencies most severely affected depended upon the ages of the mice. The youngest subjects had the greatest threshold elevations, being most pronounced at, and 1 octave above, the center frequency of the noise exposure. With increasing age there was a progressively less severe effect. The oldest subjects had cochlear AP threshold elevations which were restricted to a frequency 2 octaves above the exposure frequency.
Enhancing solid phase synthesis by a noncovalent protection strategy-efficient coupling of rhodamine to resin-bound peptide nucleic acids

Resins for solid-phase synthesis can affect coupling efficiencies by interacting with reactants. We have observed that polyethylene glycol-polystyrene (PEG-PS) solid support absorbs added activated fluorophores, preventing efficient labeling of peptide nucleic acids (PNAs). We now report that addition of an inexpensive unactivated fluorophore blocks the resin and allows efficient labeling. This protection strategy may have general benefits for peptide and combinatorial synthesis.
FITTING THE STRUCTURED GENERAL DIAGNOSTIC MODEL TO NAEP DATA

Xu and von Davier (2006) demonstrated the feasibility of using the general diagnostic model (GDM) to analyze National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) proficiency data. Their work showed that the GDM analysis not only led to conclusions for gender and race groups similar to those published in the NAEP Report Card, but also allowed flexibility in estimating multidimensional skills simultaneously. However, Xu and von Davier noticed that estimating the latent skill distributions will be much more challenging with this model when there is a large number of subgroups to estimate. To make the GDM more applicable to NAEP data analysis, which requires a fairly large subgroups analysis, this study developed a log-linear model to reduce the number of parameters in the latent skill distribution without sacrificing the accuracy of inferences. This paper describes such a model and applies the model in the analysis of NAEP reading assessments for 2003 and 2005. The comparisons between using this model and the unstructured model were made through the use of various results, such as the differences between item parameter estimates and the differences between estimated latent class distributions. The results in general show that using the log-linear model is efficient.
Subsite mapping of enzymes: Collecting and processing experimental data—a case study of an amylase-malto-oligosaccharide system

Abstract Two research groups have independently developed the theory and experimental methodology for quantitatively assessing substrate monomer-subsite binding-energies for depolymerases. When the two approaches are applied to the same enzyme-substrate system they yield surprisingly divergent results. This paper outlines the application of the two approaches to an amylase-maltooligosaccharide system and points out the more important areas of disagreement. We show that by proper data-management, the conflicts between the two laboratories are basically resolved. The complexities of the subsite model demand extensive data-gathering and exacting data-processing and verification that the computed model-parameters can faithfully reproduce the experimental data.
Combining a neural network with a genetic algorithm for process parameter optimization

Abstract A neural-network model has been developed to predict the value of a critical strength parameter (internal bond) in a particleboard manufacturing process, based on process operating parameters and conditions. A genetic algorithm was then applied to the trained neural network model to determine the process parameter values that would result in desired levels of the strength parameter for given operating conditions. The integrated NN–GA system was successful in determining the process parameter values needed under different conditions, and at various stages in the process, to provide the desired level of internal bond. The NN–GA tool allows a manufacturer to quickly determine the values of critical process parameters needed to achieve acceptable levels of board strength, based on current operating conditions and the stage of manufacturing.
Changes in structural parameters with conformational changes and the determination of conformational stabilities by molecular spectroscopic techniques

Abstract The structural changes which accompany changes in conformation of a number of different types of molecules are reviewed. These include some monosubstituted three- and four-membered ring molecules, a number of ethyl compounds of general formula CH 3 CH 2 YH 2 or CH 3 CH 2 YH where Y = O, S, Se, N or P, and some haloallyl molecules. In each case it is shown that the structural changes are usually relatively small which explains why most molecules which have conformers present at ambient temperature have very few “conformer doublets” appearing in their vibrational spectra. The vibrational modes which should be the most sensitive to conformational changes are discussed and examples provided.
Analysis of a social data visualization web site

In the past few years, online social data visualization has emerged as a new platform for users to construct, share, and comment on data visualizations online. The most well known online data visualization tools include Many Eyes, Swivel, and Tableau Public. In this paper, we report our analysis of Many Eyes — an IBM research project. By analyzing all the data visualizations constructed by users from 2007 to 2010, we provide insight into online user behavior as well as patterns and trends in social data visualization.
On the Need for a Universal Prospective ECG Database

Wolf-Parkinson-White (WPW) is one of the few clinical diseases that is mainly diagnosed by the ECG. One of the ultimate goals of modern medicine is to find a method to prevent disease. One of the best examples is catheter ablation of the accessory tracts in patients with WPW that will prevent tachyarrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD) in >95% of the patients. In patients with WPW, catheter ablation is the treatment of choice in the highly symptomatic patient with severe arrhythmias. A major challenge today is to ascertain the benefits versus the risks of doing catheter ablation in the asymptomatic patient with WPW. In this issue of Circulation , Obeyesekere et al.1 with the use of meta-analysis, studied the risk of arrhythmia and sudden death in patients with asymptomatic preexcitation and summarized the breadth of published evidence regarding the risks and benefits of catheter ablation in the asymptomatic patient. This study is an important milestone in the history of WPW, since its first description 82 years ago2 and the ablation of atrioventricular conduction by use of a catheter was first accomplished in the dog 36 years ago3 and its first use in humans was officially reported 21 years ago.4 The major conclusion of this meticulous review is that the available evidence is insufficient to justify the use of catheter ablation in the asymptomatic patient. This conclusion underscores the need to establish a prospective clinical and electrocardiographic database to determine the natural history of WPW (and other ECG abnormalities, as well) from birth to death. Our arguments in support of this proposal are summarized below. Article see p 2308 The first issue posed by these investigations is the need to establish a clinically relevant definition of the asymptomatic patient. Many patients presenting with an ECG diagnosis of …
Bluetongue Virus in North American Elk

North American elk (Cervus canadensis) were susceptible to experimental bluetongue virus (BTV) infection although clinical signs were mild or inapparent. A viremia of significant magnitude and duration occured in all five experimental elk following subcutaneous inoculation. Elk developed BTV antibody by the second or third week after exposure and antibody was still present in the sera of all animals at the termination of the experiment at 6 or 7 months. The possible role of elk in the epizootiology of bluetongue was discussed.
A finite difference variational method for bending of plates

Abstract The method of analysis for bending of plates presented in this paper combines a finite difference scheme for the plate strain components and a variational derivation of the equations of motion or equilibrium. The plate strain components are expressed in terms of discrete nodal displacements with the aid of the two dimensional Taylor expansion. Consequently, the virtual work, or the first variation of the strain energy, in an area element is found as a function of the nodal displacements. The derivation of the element forces or the element stiffness matrices and the assembly of the equations of motion or equilibrium follows closely the steps of the finite element method.
Is the glycine site half saturated or half unsaturated? Effects of glutamatergic drugs in schizophrenia patients.

Purpose of review Current treatments for schizophrenia target the dopamine system. Developments of new treatments that target the glutamate system, however, are under progress, in particular, for the N-methyl-D-aspartate-type glutamate receptor. Compared with dopaminergic treatments, these treatments may show improved efficacy in the treatment of persistent negative symptoms. Recent findings During the past year, clinical trials have been published with several agonists at the glycine site of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, including glycine, D-serine, D-alanine and with the glycine transport inhibitor, sarcosine. Studies published during the past year indicate highly significant beneficial effects on negative symptoms when these compounds are added to both conventional and newer atypical antipsychotics in efficacy models although an effectiveness trial of current formulations of glycine and D-cycloserine failed to show an overall benefit. Relevant issues across studies may include the compound chosen, its formulation and tolerability, populations studied, and the nature and dose of the base antipsychotic treatment. Summary The present findings continue to support the use of N-methyl-D-aspartate/glycine site agonists as potential new treatments for persistent negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Ongoing work with novel compounds and new formulations may assist in the translation of these advances into clinic-ready pharmacotherapies.
Cation field strength effects on high pressure aluminosilicate glass structure: Multinuclear NMR and La XAFS results

We examined aluminosilicate glasses containing a variety of network modifying to intermediate cations (Li, La, Sc, and Fe), quenched from melts at 1 atm to 8 GPa, to further investigate the role of cation field strength in Al coordination changes and densification. ^(27)Al Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR) reveals that the mean Al coordination increases with increasing pressure in the Li-containing glasses, which can be explained by a linear dependence of fractional change in Al coordination number on cation field strengths in similar K-, Na-, and Ca-containing aluminosilicate glasses (K < Na < Li < Ca). Measured recovered densities follow a similar linear trend. In contrast, the La-containing glasses have significantly lower mean Al coordination numbers at given pressures than the cation field strength of La and glass density would predict. La L_3 X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy results indicate a significant increase with pressure in average La–O bond distances, suggesting that La and Al may be “competing” for higher coordinated sites and hence that both play a significant role in the densification of these glasses, especially in the lower pressure range. However, in Na aluminosilicate glasses with small amounts of Sc, ^(45)Sc NMR reveals only modest Sc coordination changes, which do not seem to significantly affect the mean Al coordination values. For a Li aluminosilicate glass, ^(17)O MAS and multiple quantum magic angle spinning (3QMAS) NMR data are consistent with generation of more highly coordinated Al at the expense of non-bridging oxygen (NBO), whereas La aluminosilicate glasses have roughly constant O environments, even up to 8 GPa. Finally, we demonstrate that useful ^(23)Na and ^(27)Al MAS NMR spectra can be collected for Ca–Na aluminosilicate glasses containing up to 5 wt.% Fe oxide. We discuss the types of structural changes that may accompany density increases with pressure and how these structural changes are affected by the presence of different cations.
Visual Computing Laboratory

It would be difficult to overestimate the importance of visual information in current computer systems. Visual computing, which embraces processing, interpreting, modeling, assimilating, storing, retrieving, and synthesizing visual information, now plays a crucial role in many fields. These include multimedia, virtual reality, robotics, scientific visualization, and communications systems. And the demand for further integration of visual information into these areas shows every sign of continuing unabated. Under the direction of Ramesh Jain, the Visual Computing Laboratory at the University of California, San Diego, was established as a center for innovative visual computing research to address the requirements of these applications in next-generation computer technologies. As such, the Visual Computing Lab hosts a group of researchers working in a variety of areas, notably multimedia databases, information assimilation, interactive video, and visual interaction through gesture recognition. This article presents a high-level overview of activities in the Visual Computing Laboratory and provides some details on prototype systems that we are currently developing. >
Therapeutic responses in asthma and COPD. Corticosteroids.

The effects of inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) in asthma include reduced severity of symptoms, improved pulmonary function, diminished bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR), prevention of exacerbations, and possible prevention of airway wall remodeling. Compared with an inhaled β 2 -agonist, ICSs improve airway function and BHR, reduce bronchial-epithelium abnormalities, decrease bronchial inflammation, and reduce inflammatory-cell infiltration into the bronchial lamina propria; thus, they may prevent airway remodeling. In children, early use of ICSs may result in improved airway function over time. ICSs reduce use of prednisone, asthma medications, hospitalizations, and urgent-care visits. The primary side effects of ICSs in children are limited to transient reduction in growth. Compared with a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA), ICSs produced a greater change from baseline in FEV 1 and greater reductions in symptoms. A long-acting β 2 -agonist (LABA) combined with an ICS produced greater improvements than does therapy with ICSs even at higher doses. In COPD, the therapeutic value of ICSs is not as clear. While clinical trials in patients with mild COPD have not shown a reduction in decline in FEV 1 over time, other studies have shown that ICS therapy reduces exacerbations in patients with more severe COPD. Combination therapy with both ICS and LABA has recently been shown to be effective in COPD, where studies have documented additive improvement in FEV 1 . Overall, the same therapeutic approaches show clinical effectiveness in both asthma and COPD. This supports the hypothesis that there are some similarities in these obstructive airway diseases. Future approaches should further define phenotypes, perhaps based in part on pharmacogenetic factors that will guide anti-inflammatory therapy in asthma and COPD.
Carcinoembryonic antigen as a target for cancer vaccines

The vaccine approach to cancer therapy is still in the early stages. Since any immune response has a limited capacity, immunotherapeutic manipulations to destroy tumor will probably be most effective against small tumor masses or micrometastases. Consequently, immunotherapy with these CEA cancer vaccines may prove most effective in the adjuvant setting, where disease has been controlled or stabilized with conventional therapies. The development of CEA cancer vaccines involves many parameters, including the appropriate form of the vaccine, i.e., recombinant protein, peptides, vectors etc., the use of classical adjuvants and/or biological adjuvants such as cytokines, and the use of T cell costimulatory molecules. The integration of these parameters into the development of a cancer vaccine will be the challenge for the next decade [33].
Transference of Metrics Induced by Unitary Couplings, a Sarason Theorem for the Bidimensional Torus, and a Sz.-Nagy-Foias Theorem for Two Pairs of Dilations

Abstract Liftings of invariant forms defined in semi-invariant subspaces of the Hibert spaces of scattering systems with one or two evolution groups are obtained. These liftings provide direct proofs for the classical theorems of Sarason and of Sz.-Nagy and Foias, as well as a bidimensional version of Sarason′s theorem, and a theorem of Sz.-Nagy-Foias type for two pairs of dilations. The main tool used is a transference of a Hibert space metric induced by a coupling of isometries, of possible independent interest in the study of scattering systems.
Mechanical leverage in the middle ear of the American bullfrog, Rana catesbeiana.

Textbooks lump the middle ears of 'submammalian Tetrapoda' as being 'one-ossicle ears'. Conventionally the anuran middle ear is depicted with a shaft-like skeletal unit connecting the tympanic membrane to the inner ear. This shaft comprises mediad a long bony columella and laterad a short cartilaginous extracolumella. But dissection of Rana catesbeiana ears showed: the extracolumella, as long as the columella, is proximally expanded in the vertical plane, forming dorsal and ventral heads. The medio-dorsal head is movably jointed to the columella, between these two there is an obtuse angle ventrad; the extracolumellar medio-ventral head is anchored by a ligament to the middle-ear cavity ceiling. When the tympanic membrane moves outwards, pulling the extracolumella, the medio-dorsal head of the extracolumella must be forced inwards, rotating on the ventral anchorage, pushing the columella towards the inner ear. The ossicular chain thus includes a mechanical lever, possessing the magnitude of the ratio length:width of the extracolumella; this is additional to the lever known from the columellar footplate, which rotates on its firm ventral attachment. These levers are confirmed physiologically, by the difference between the inner-ear sensitivity (shown by isopotential audiograms of microphonic potentials) when stimulated by a vibrator first at the tympanic membrane, then at the proximal stump of the amputated columella. Perusal of the primary literature showed that this morphology is widespread among anuran ears.
Lower eyelid herniation of orbital fat may complicate periocular corticosteroid injection.

Abstract PURPOSE: To report a case of lower eyelid herniation of orbital fat occurring after periocular corticosteroid injection. DESIGN: Interventional case report. METHODS: A 44-year-old man with asymmetrical pars planitis complicated by right cystoid macular edema was treated with multiple right orbital floor injections of triamcinolone through the lower eyelid. RESULTS: Right lower eyelid orbital fat herniation occurred during the course of the treatment. CONCLUSION: A herniation of orbital fat may complicate the injection of corticosteroid through the lower eyelid.
Structure and magnetic properties of rapidly quenched samarium-type alloys

Abstract Lattice spacing and magnetic susceptibility measurements have been made for Sm-type alloys in the GdLa, GdCe, GdPr and GdNd systems, in both the equilibrium and liquid quenched states. In all cases the liquid quenched alloys adopt the the close-packed hexagonal structure. Magnetic ordering, with incomplete cancellation of the atomic moments, has been observed in all the alloys at low temperatures (7 K ). The magnetic ordering is discussed in terms of interactions between the constituent moments of the alloys.
Strong interaction of distinct single photons via a single atom in a waveguide

We propose a waveguide QED scheme where distinct single photons interact strongly at a ladder or V-type atom. When both atomic transitions are strongly coupled to the waveguide, photon tunneling and a π phase shift is induced by another distinct photon.
Usefulness to Original Institutional Economics (OIE) of Normative Criteria Theory in the Frameworks of Elinor Ostrom's Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) and Paul A. Sabatier's Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF)

This article reviews and assesses Elinor Ostrom's Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) framework and Paul A. Sabatier's Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF) to determine their usefulness to institutional economics with regard to the theory of normative criteria and policymaking. The conclusions are that (1) Ostrom's IAD is not of assistance to institutional economics, (2) Sabatier's ACF and institutional economics have four important ideas in common, (3) the different levels of normative beliefs found from ACF studies have not been integrated into institutional economics, and (4) the technological and ecological criteria found in institutional economics have not been integrated into ACF.
Antinociceptive effects of locally administered morphine in infant rats

Opiates injected into a site of injury are analgesic in adult animals, but there are no data on the effectiveness of this route of administration in immature organisms. Since the biological processes that regulate the effects of locally administered opiates are in flux during the early postnatal life of the rat, it is not clear whether or not opiates given directly into local tissue would be effective as analgesics. To test this we injected morphine (0.12, 0.60, 3.0 μg/injection) directly into the hindpaw (intraplantar) of infant rats at 3, 10 and 21 days of age, and assessed the behavioral response and the induction of Fos like immunocytochemistry in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord in the formalin test. Controls included saline injections to the paw, or comparable doses of morphine injected subcutaneously. At 3 days of age, the two higher doses were behaviorally analgesic when given into the paw, but there was limited selectivity over the subcutaneous route. At both 10 and 21 days of age, intraplantar injections were effective analgesics, whereas subcutaneous injections were not. The number of Fos stained cells in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, induced by the formalin treatment, was decreased significantly by the 3.0 mg dose of morphine at all three ages. The results demonstrate that local treatment with morphine is an effective and selective analgesic in the infant rat.
Protein phosphorylation in pancreatic islets: evidence for separate Ca2+ and cAMP-enhanced phosphorylation of two 57,000 Mr proteins.

Abstract There is a phosphopeptide that has an Mr of 53,000 to 60,000 in insulin-secreting tissues and there is general agreement that this peptide can be phosphorylated in a calcium-dependent manner. The present report shows that there are at least two phosphoproteins with Mr's near 57,000 in rat pancreatic islet cytosol. One peptide has an Mr of 57,000, a pl of 7.5 – 8 and is phosphorylated in a Ca2+-enhanced manner, and the other has an Mr of 54,000, a pl of 5 – 5.5 and is phosphorylated in a cAMP-enhanced manner, as judged by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Sepharose 4B chromatography indicated that the former polypeptide resides in a native protein complex that has an Mr of about 500,000 and the latter in a complex that has an Mr of about 180,000. Tritiated azido cyclic AMP binds to an islet polypeptide that has an Mr of 54,000. The results suggest that Ca2+ and cAMP could regulate stimulus-secretion coupling in pancreatic islets via protein phosphorylation.
Developing a mid-range theory of patient advocacy through concept analysis

Title. Developing a mid-range theory of patient advocacy through concept analysis Aim. The aim of this paper is to clarify and refine the concept of patient advocacy through synthesizing the advocacy literature in nursing and to establish a theoretical basis for future studies on patient advocacy in nursing. Background. Patient advocacy is an essential component of the Registered Nurse professional role. During the past 30 years, the patient advocacy role has become more important, but the concept of patient advocacy lacks a consistent definition and research into nurses’ patient advocacy roles is limited. There have been few quantitative empirical studies on patient advocacy in nursing. Method. Walker and Avant's method of concept analysis was used as a guideline in examining the concept of patient advocacy through synthesizing the advocacy literature in English (1974–2006). Findings. A mid-range theory of patient advocacy emerges during the process of synthesizing and analysing the advocacy literature. Three core attributes of the concept of patient advocacy are identified: (1) safeguarding patients’ autonomy; (2) acting on behalf of patients; and (3) championing social justice in the provision of health care. They reflect nurses’ patient advocacy roles at both macro- and micro-social levels. Antecedents of patient advocacy occur at both macro- and micro-social levels and call for nurses’ advocacy roles in the healthcare system. Consequences produced by nurses’ patient advocacy behaviours are contextual. Nurses’ patient advocacy behaviours not only can positively influence the patients, other nurses and the nursing profession, but also can cause negative consequences for nurses who take action to advocate for patients. Conclusion. The proposed mid-range theory may be useful in guiding advocacy practice in nursing and in guiding research in the advocacy area. The proposed theory needs to be furthered refined and tested in the future.
Abdominal-Lead Fetal Electrocardiographic R-Wave Enhancement for Heart Rate Determination

The reliability of fetal heart rate (FHR) from external abdominal-lead electrocardiographic waveforms depends upon the R-wave detection capability of the monitoring device. Assuming that the maternal component of the ECG is canceiled by techniques described elsewhere [1]-[4], we are left with a fetal electrocardiogm (FECG) which may be conrupted by high noise levels. This paper describes several digital signal processing techniques by which the detection of fetal R-waves is improved. These techniques-narrow band-pass filtering, local peak differencing, autoregressive filtering, and matched filtering-are theoretically developed. The performance of each technique is measured and analyzed for two sample fetal ECG inputs.
Semantic analysis of natural kind terms

This paper develops a model theoretic semantics for so called “natural kind terms” that reflects the viewpoint of (Kripke, 1980) and (Putnam, 1975). The semantics generates a formal counterpart of the “K-mechanism” investigated in (Salmon, 1981) and in unpublished work by Keith Donnellan.
Metrics for Evaluating and Optimizing the Barrier and Time to Reverse Engineer a Product

Reverse engineering, defined as extracting information about a product from the product itself, is a common industry practice for gaining insight into innovative products. Both the original designer and those reverse engineering the original design can benefit from estimating the time and barrier to reverse engineer a product. This paper presents a set of metrics and parameters that can be used to calculate the barrier to reverse engineer any product as well as the time required to do so. To the original designer, these numerical representations of the barrier and time can be used to strategically identify and improve product characteristics so as to increase the difficulty and time to reverse engineer them. As the metrics and parameters developed in this paper are quantitative in nature, they can also be used in conjunction with numerical optimization techniques, thereby enabling products to be developed with a maximum reverse engineering barrier and time — at a minimum development cost. On the other hand, these quantitative measures enable competitors who reverse engineer original designs to focus their efforts on products that will result in the greatest return on investment.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Quantum-mechanical calculation of quasi-bound energies and resonance widths for the helium molecular dication He22+

Abstract A real space amplitude method for the calculation of the quasi-bound resonance energies and widths for a single-channel one-dimensional potential is described and applied to the vibrational quasi-bound states of 3 He 4 He 2 2+ and 4 He 2 2+ , which have been detected recently, using the Coulomb explosion technique.
Teacher expertise and the development of a problem representation

This study examined ways in which expert and novice teachers mentally represent classroom problems in matters of instruction, assessment, and curriculum planning. A triad judgement task was administered to expert teachers (n=20) and novice teachers (n=98) to determine whether deep, structural features (i.e. the theoretical underpinnings associated with the problem) and/or surface features (narrative characteristics of the problem including grade level and subject) were used to interpret and represent a problem situation presented in a classroom context. Findings were consistent with results from previous studies examining problem representation among experts and novices in other domains. That is, the experts in this study primarily relied on the deep features to form a mental representation of a problem situation whereas the novices tended to rely on surface structures to do so. However, findings also revealed that novice teachers relied on the deep, structural features of the problem under certain condit...
Capitalizing Collective Knowledge for Winning, Execution and Teamwork

Since 1994, the IBM Consulting Group has employed Intellectual Capital Management (ICM) as part of the company’s re‐engineering project. The idea of ICM has been to institutionalize and make Knowledge Management more formal throughout IBM Global Services and Global Industries. It has involved taking practical steps to acquire, create, share and transfer knowledge; use knowledge to continually develop and grow; and anticipate and adapt to changing conditions. IBM;s approach includes: linking intellectual capital with strategy; building an infrastructure and processes for creating and sharing knowledge; creating a knowledge‐based enterprise and culture; leveraging technology for global collaboration and knowledge‐sharing‐ and measuring the effectiveness and value of intellectual assets sharing.
The number and morphology of moss chromosomes.

The time that suitable cytological material is available can be extended by bringing mosses into the laboratory in late winter and keeping them in covered glass dishes placed in strong diffuse light. Best growth of the gametophyte occurs at 68-70° F. and at a relative humidity just high enough to prevent the leaves from curling. Fruiting plants can be maintained in the laboratory in the same way but at a slightly lower relative humidity. Tissue for the study of the gametophytic chromosome complement is obtained from the stem apex and embryonic leaves. Sporophytic mitoses are obtained from the meristematic tip of developing sporophytes. For the study of meiosis, the columella, to which the spore mother cells adhere, is removed from the capsule. The tissues are fixed in acetic alcohol for 1–3 hours and then stained and squashed. Ways in which moss tissue reacts differently to the conventional squash methods are discussed and special directions are given.