cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preparing teachers is different than preparing software developers: [WiPSCE'14 keynote]

Preparing teachers to teach computing is more than a matter of re-purposing existing courses for computer science majors. The tasks, knowledge, and skills of a computing teacher in primary or secondary school are dramatically different than that of a software developer. Computing teachers need pedagogical content knowledge, which includes awareness of common misconceptions, methods for diagnosing those misconceptions, and interventions to help students develop more robust conceptions. The job of a software developer requires knowledge and skills that are irrelevant for a computing teacher. To meet the worldwide need for computing teachers, we must design new kinds of learning opportunities that address the requirements of teachers.In this talk, I will present the findings from our studies of the best practices of successful computing teachers, and describe our efforts in finding new ways to support teacher learning about computing. We find that our most successful teachers read and comment code all the time, but almost never write code. The most successful teachers know the content, but also know the most common misconceptions for that content. We find that on-line learning is challenging for teachers to fit into their lives, but we can make learning opportunities that teachers will stick with if we emphasize activities that are lower-cognitive than just writing code on a blank sheet of paper.
Effects of social exploration mechanisms on robot learning

Social learning in robotics has largely focused on imitation learning. Here we take a broader view and are interested in the multifaceted ways that a social partner can influence the learning process. We implement four social learning mechanisms on a robot: stimulus enhancement, emulation, mimicking, and imitation, and illustrate the computational benefits of each. In particular, we illustrate that some strategies are about directing the attention of the learner to objects and others are about actions. Taken together these strategies form a rich repertoire allowing social learners to use a social partner to greatly impact their learning process. We demonstrate these results in simulation and with physical robot ‘playmates’.
Supercontinuum generation in gases.

Supercontinua extending from the ultraviolet to the infrared are observed from high-pressure (1-40 atm) Ar, Kr, Xe, ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$, ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$, or C${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ illuminated with 2-psec or 70-fsec, 0.6-\ensuremath{\mu}m pulses with an energy \ensuremath{\lesssim}500 \ensuremath{\mu}J. The blue spectral component is shown to display a nearly universal behavior for all gases and pulse durations. Although the maximum intensity of the focused, femtosecond pulse in an evacuated cell was \ensuremath{\sim}${10}^{13}$ W/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$, continuum generation was only observed with the femtosecond pulse when the threshold for self-focusing was exceeded.
Evaluation of multicenter electron‐repulsion integrals over slater‐type orbitals

By the use of the formulas given by the author for the expansion of Slater-type orbitals (STOS) in terms of STOS at a new origin, multicenter electron-repulsion integrals are expressed in terms of the two-center hybrid integrals over STOS for the evaluation of which simpler analytical formulas are derived. The convergence of the series is tested by calculating concrete cases.
By Their Own Hand Irreconcilable Silence

The word suicide takes on a life of its own. People are both repulsed and intrigued by the word and the silence it brings. Those who survive a loved one's suicide face the inherent contradictions that exist in society: a mixture of sympathy and disgust, spectacle and removal. The author's sister was a clinical neurologist working at a well-known, top-tier medical institution who committed suicide in reaction to thwarted efforts to obtain a tenured position. As a result, the author faced within herself a mixture of horror and wonder, isolation and community, and anger and stillness. A survivor's grief has no structure, and feelings and thoughts meander without rhyme or reason like the primitive rhizome as an uncovered memory constantly stops in the middle and unfolds to another. This autoethnographic article explores Deleuze and Guattari's oppositional binaries and the author's compelling need to search the silence.
Scanning the special issue on radio telescopes

The present issue (vol.82, no.2, 1994) is the third in the Proceedings of the IEEE to be devoted to radio and radar astronomy. The first appeared in January 1958, a significant date because it was 25 years after Karl G. Jansky's first report of his discovery of Galactic radio noise. The second was 15 years later in September 1973, and was devoted to reporting how the science had progressed. The 15-year timespan had marked a period of rapid advance that had yielded a wealth of discoveries. Now, 21 years later, the field is still dynamic and continues to produce an abundance of findings, due in part to the large number of new observatories. In the present issue, the focus is on the design and performance of the antennas and the instrumentation used in radio astronomy. The issue concentrates on already existing and operational telescopes. Perhaps yet a future issue is merited, one devoted to those new telescopes that are still on the drawing boards. >
NMR studies of molecular hydrogen in zeolite

We report new pulsed NMR studies of the supercooling of molecular hydrogen constrained to the interior of the molecular cages of zeolite. Measurements of the supercooling for the ultra-small structure of zeolite-5A in comparison with earlier studies show that the substantial supercooling observed does not depend strongly on the characteristic dimensions and is interpreted as a class-II growth attributed to imperfect wetting. Studies of the supercooling of HD and detailed analyses of the orientational ordering of molecular H2 show that the abrupt transitions observed in the pulsed NMR studies are associated with the supercooled liquid/solid transitions and are not associated with orientational ordering.
Measurement of urinary kallikrein activity by kinin radioimmunoassay.

Abstract A method for measuring urinary kallikrein activity by kinin radioimmunoassay (RIA) is described. Kinins were generated by incubating urine with partially purified dog kininogen in the presence of peptidase inhibitors. Antibodies against kallidin were induced in rabbits by injecting kallidin coupled to ovalbumin. One of the antisera generated was used at a final dilution of 1:18,000 to obtain a 40 per cent binding of approximately 3000 cpm (10 pg) of bradykinin (S-tyrosin)-[ 125 I]triacetate ([ 125 I]bradykinin). Synthetic kallidin (10–500 pg) was used to construct standard curves. When kinins generated by urinary kallikrein were also used, the two displacement curves for [ 125 I]bradykinin were similar. The RIA was sensitive to 10 pg kinins. The antiserum cross-reacted with bradykinin, methionyl- kallidin, and kininogen, but not with angiotensin, oxytocin or SQ 20,881. To increase the specificity of the RIA, the kininogen was removed by ethanol precipitation followed by QAE-Sephadex-A50 chromatography. Kallikrein activity in 81 human urine samples and 8 samples obtained from a dog undergoing stop-flow procedure was measured by RIA and bioassay. Correlations of r = 0.81 and 0.94 were found. This RIA is useful for measuring kallikrein activity in rat, dog and human urine.
Soybean Oil Meal in Hen Rations

Abstract THE results of early experiments comparing soybean oil meal with meat scrap and fish meal were not favorable for the soybean oil meal (Dougherty, 1915; Lewis, 1917). However, it was shown by Philips and Hauge (1925) and Kempster (1930) that minerals were a limiting factor and that when proper supplementation of minerals was made the egg production with soybean oil meal was comparable with that secured with rations containing animal protein. Similar results were reported by a number of other workers (Kennard and White, 1922; Robertson and Baskett, 1928, 1929; Lomax, 1930; Suzuki and Hatano, 1930). Halpin, Holmes and Hart (1934) stated that soybean oil meal could be used to replace a part of the dried milk and meat scrap in a laying ration, but should not be relied on as a total substitute. Halpin, Holmes and Hayward (1936) concluded that soybean oil meals produced at high temperatures are more . . .
A study of peptide--peptide interaction by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization.

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry was used to study peptide-peptide interaction. The interaction was seen when 6-aza-2-thiothymine was used as a matrix (pH 5.4), but was disrupted with a more acidic matrix, α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (pH 2.0). In the present study, we show that dynorphin, an opioid peptide, and five of its fragments that contain two adjacent basic residues (Arg6-Arg7), all interact noncovalently with peptides that contain two to five adjacent acidic residues (Asp or Glu). Two other nonrelated peptides containing two (Arg6-Arg7) or three (Arg1-Lys2-Arg3) adjacent basic amino acid residues were studied and exhibited the same behavior. However, peptides containing adjacent Lys or His did not form noncovalent complexes with acidic peptides. The noncovalent bonding was sufficiently stable that digestion with trypsin only cleaved Arg and Lys residues that were not involved in hydrogen bonding with the acidic residues. In an equimolar mixture of dynorphin, dynorphin fragments (containing the motifRR), and an acidic peptide (minigastrin), the acidic peptide preferentially complexed with dynorphin. If the concentration of minigastrin was increased 10 fold, noncovalent interaction was seen with dynorphin and all its fragments containing the motifRR. In the absence of dynorphin, minigastrin formed noncovalent complexes with all dynorphin fragments. These findings suggest that conformation, equilibrium, and concentration do play a role in the occurrence of peptide-peptide interaction. Observations from this study include: (1) ionic bonds were not disrupted by enzymatic digests, (2) conformation and concentration influenced complex formation, and (3) the complex did not form with fragments of dynorphin or unrelated peptides that did not contain the motifsRR orRKR, nor with a fragment of dynorphin where Argsub7 was mutated to a phenylalanine residue. These findings strongly suggest that peptide-peptide interaction does occur, and can be studied by MALDI if near physiologic pH is maintained.
Partially coherent speckle patterns of weak phase plates

Abstract We examine speckle patterns created by weak diffusers in imaging systems that utilize partially coherent light. Their Wiener spectra generally emphasize low spatial frequencies more than the corresponding coherent light Wiener spectra.
A Performance Comparison of Different Topologies for Wireless Sensor Networks

Presently, star, mesh, tree, and clustered hierarchical architecture have emerged as the choice topologies for wireless sensor networks (WSN). Each topology has its own pros and cons under the specific working environment constraints. Consequently, current research depicts customized domain-specific ad hoc network topologies for efficient utilization of the constrained sensor resources. In this paper, we compare the various WSN topologies using performance criteria such as reliability, energy-efficiency, network life, scalability, self-organizing capability, data latency, etc. We focus on the reliability comparison of different topologies through a quantitative study. And we present a qualitative discussion on other performance criteria. Our study will provide useful insights for the WSN designers in choosing the appropriate topology and associated design parameters. We illustrate our observations via case studies.
Clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical features of pigmented Basal cell carcinomas of the eyelids.

Purpose To describe the clinical and microscopic features of pigmented basal cell carcinomas (pBCC) of the eyelid. Design Retrospective observational case series collected at one institution. Methods An analysis of clinical records, photographs, and histopathologic characteristics of 257 BCCs with a review of the literature. The frequencies of clinically pigmented, and of microscopically pigmented but clinically nonpigmented, BCCs were determined. Cytochemical stains (Fontana-Masson, Prussian blue) and immunohistochemical probes (S-100, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor [MiTF], HMB-45, MART-1, CK20, synaptophysin, chromogranin, CD1a, Ki-67) were then employed and the findings correlated with the degree of clinical pigmentation. Results Histopathologically, 13 of 257 cases (5.06%) were found to have pigment; of these 13, 6 (all white patients) had clinically apparent pigmentation (2.33%), either focal or diffuse. Eight of 13 lesions developed on the lower eyelids. All stained positively for melanin but negatively for iron. MiTF highlighted numerous melanocytic nuclei in the tumor lobules, while MART-1 and HMB-45 revealed the dendritic shapes of the entrapped melanocytes. There was a subtotal blockage of melanin transfer to the surrounding basaloid cells. Intralobular S-100-positive cells included CD1a-positive Langerhans cells, while CK20 did not identify any Merkel cells. Conclusions Only 1 of 6 lesions was uniformly clinically pigmented, whereas the other 5 were only focally brown-black. The clinical pigmentation was imparted by varying densities and distributions of melanocytes with arborizing dendrites, which were present in all BCCs. Melanophages within the stroma and basaloid cell melanization also contributed to pigmentation. No behavioral or biologic differences in pBCC were documented compared with clinically nonpigmented lesions.
Recovery from experimental paraplegia after levodopa administration

In decompression sickness and during some surgical procedures, air emboli that form sometimes cause serious damage if the gas bubbles find their way to the vital organs. Paralysis of the spinal cord is one of the most serious manifestations induced by air emboli. Exposure to compression chambers is effective in air emboli treatment, but availability of chambers is inadequate and the treatment is lengthy. Until now there has been no fully effective injectable agent that can remedy the damage caused by air embolization.
TU‐C‐204B‐09: A Novel Approach to Tracking Intrafraction Prostate Motion during Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy with Tomosynthesis

Purpose: To investigate a novel approach that uses independent kV onboard imager and tomosynthesis acquisition to detect intrafraction prostate movement/deformation during volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). Method and Materials: Intrafraction motion poses a significant problem in VMAT treatment due to a substantially high dose rate during the treatment. To rapidly detect intrafraction motion, a tomosynthesis acquisition scheme accompanied by an onboard kV imager that can rotate independent of treatment gantry has been simulated and the performance in detecting motion has been investigated. The mutual information (MI) between the reference and the reconstructedtomosynthesisimages in a ROI was used to assess intrafraction motion. Twenty two CBCT data acquired before each fraction for one prostate patient have been used to simulate intrafraction motion. The prostate motion was characterized by the displacement of the prostate mid‐posterior (MP) points in CBCT data and in the Sim CT. The correlation between the MI and MP displacement was calculated and a paired t‐test for the MI between group 1 (MP displacement ≤ 3 mm) and group 2 (MP displacement > 3 mm) was conducted. Results: The MI is sensitive to small shift/deformation and the correlation between the MI and MP displacement is 0.81, which suggests that MI can successfully predict motion. The MI of Group 2 is significantly lower than that of group 1 (P 3mm and respond to the motion in less than 5s. It has a substantial potential in dealing with intrafraction motion for other sites and adaptive radiation therapy as well.
Characteristics and Rehabilitation Outcomes Among Patients With Blast and Other Injuries Sustained During the Global War on Terror

Abstract Sayer NA, Chiros CE, Sigford B, Scott S, Clothier B, Pickett T, Lew HL. Characteristics and rehabilitation outcomes among patients with blast and other injuries sustained during the Global War on Terror. Objective To describe characteristics and rehabilitation outcomes among patients who received inpatient rehabilitation for blast and other injuries sustained in Iraq and Afghanistan during the Global War on Terror. Design Observational study based on chart review and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) administrative data. Setting The 4 VA polytrauma rehabilitation centers (PRCs). Participants Service members (N=188) admitted to a PRC during the first 4 years of the Global War on Terror for injuries sustained during Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom. Intervention Multidisciplinary comprehensive rehabilitation program. Main Outcomes Measures Cognitive and motor FIM instrument gain scores and length of stay (LOS). Results Most war-injured patients had traumatic brain injury, injuries to several other body systems and organs, and associated pain. Fifty-six percent had blast-related injuries, and the pattern of injuries was unique among those with injuries secondary to blasts. Soft tissue, eye, oral and maxillofacial, otologic, penetrating brain injuries, symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, and auditory impairments were more common in blast-injured patients than in those with war injuries of other etiologies. The mechanism of the injury did not predict functional outcomes. LOS was variable, particularly for those with blast injuries. Patients with low levels of independence at admissions made the most progress but remained more dependent at discharge compared with other PRC patients. The rate of gain was slower in this low-functioning group. Conclusions Blasts produce a unique constellation of injuries but do not make a unique contribution to functional gain scores. Findings underscore the need for assessment and treatment of pain and mental health problems among patients with polytrauma and blast-related injuries. Patients with polytrauma have lifelong needs, and future research should examine needs over time after community re-entry.
OCCUPATIONAL FOLLOWING DURING THE GUILD ERA: AN ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVE

Family traditions in business operations are common throughout recorded history. From an economic perspective, occupational following may occur voluntarily because valuable, job‐specific human capital, which is transferred at low cost from one generation to the next, raises the son's expected return of following in his father's footsteps. Moreover, to the extent family name is utilized as a screening device for entry into restricted occupations, sons may have a double inducement to follow.
Zoom-Invariant Vision of Figural Shape

Believing that figural zoom invariance and the cross-figural boundary linking implied by medial loci are important aspects of object shape, we present the mathematics of and algorithms for the extraction of medial loci directly from image intensities. The medial loci called cores are defined as generalized maxima in scale space of a form of medial information that is invariant to translation, rotation, and, in particular, zoom. These loci are very insensitive to image disturbances, in strong contrast to previously available medial loci, as demonstrated in a companion paper. Core-related geometric properties and image object representations are laid out which, together with the aforementioned insensitivities, allow the core to be used effectively for a variety of image analysis objectives.
Nanoscale composites of Si/Sn and Ge/Sn synthesized by mechanical attrition

Abstract The alloy systems SiSn and GeSn exhibit mutual immiscibility in the solid state. We have studied the structure and characterized the microstructure of powder mixtures of either Si/Sn or Ge/Sn as a function of milling time in shaker or vibratory mills. After milling times of ⩾ 32h the phases typically exhibit a nanoscle microstructure, as revealed by TEM, with the harder Si or Ge particles, approximately 10 nm in diameter, embedded in the softer Sn matrix. The results on the Ge-Sn system have been reported previously GeSn work. Nanocrystalline composites of Si1−xSnx (x⩽0.3) were prepared by mechanical attrition in a shaker mill. A marked reduction in the breadth and intensity of the Si x-ray diffraction lines were noted. Substitution of Pb for Sn provided an accelerated decrease in the Si line intensities, suggesting that x-ray absorption effects are contributing to these observations. TEM studies confirmed the nanocrystalline microstructure inferred from x-ray diffraction and gave no evidence to suggest the occurence of amorphization.
On the cone of completely positive linear transformations

Abstract All faces (and specifically extremals) of the cone CP m,n are characterized as are its interior and boundary.
An introduction to a conference and a field

Abstract An introduction to the conference is presented. Some of the opportunities and difficulties for the future of wide-field imaging from space are discussed.
An elective course on application of clinical pharmacy principles.

Objective. To design and implement an elective therapeutics course and to assess its impact on students’ attainment of course outcomes and level of confidence in applying clinical pharmacy principles and pharmacotherapy knowledge.Design. A 3-credit hour elective for third-year pharmacy students was structured to include problem-based learning (PBL), journal club and case presentations, and drug information activities.Assessment. Student achievement of curricular outcomes was measured using performance on SOAP (subjective, objective, assessment, plan) notes, case and journal club presentations, drug information activities, and peer evaluations. Results from a pre- and post-course survey instrument demonstrated significant improvement in students’ confidence in applying clinical pharmacy principles.Conclusion. Students completing the course demonstrated increased attainment of course outcomes and confidence in their abilities to evaluate a patient case and make pharmacotherapeutic recommendations.
XXXV.—Descriptions and records of bees.—LXXX

(1910). XXXV.—Descriptions and records of bees.—XXVI. Annals and Magazine of Natural History: Vol. 5, No. 27, pp. 256-264.
Seeing is believing : What do boys do when they find a real gun?

Objectives. To determine how boys behave when they find a handgun in a presumably safe environment and to compare parental expectations of their child9s interest in real guns with this observed behavior. Methods. A convenience sample of 8- to 12-year-old boys was recruited from families that completed a survey on firearm ownership, storage practices, and parental perceptions. Parents were asked to rate their child9s interest in real guns on a scale from 1 to 5: 1–2 = low interest, 3 = moderate interest, and 4–5 = high interest. Parents of an eligible child were asked to bring to the exercise 1 of their son9s playmates and/or a sibling in the same age range. After informed parental consent was obtained, each pair or trio of boys was placed in a room with a 1-way mirror and observed for up to 15 minutes. Two water pistols and an actual .380 caliber handgun were concealed in separate drawers. The handgun contained a radio transmitter that activated a light whenever the trigger was depressed with sufficient force to discharge the firearm. After the exercise, each boy was asked whether he thought that the pistol was real or a toy. Before leaving, each child was counseled about safe behavior around guns. Results. Twenty-nine groups of boys (n= 64) took part in the study. The mean age of participants was 9.8 years. Twenty-one of the groups (72%) discovered the handgun (n = 48 boys); 16 groups (76%) handled it (n = 30 boys). One or more members in 10 of the groups (48%) pulled the trigger (n = 16 boys). Approximately half of the 48 boys who found the gun thought that it was a toy or were unsure whether it was real. Parental estimates of their child9s interest in guns did not predict actual behavior on finding the handgun. Boys who were believed to have a low interest in real guns were as likely to handle the handgun or pull the trigger as boys who were perceived to have a moderate or high interest in guns. More than 90% of the boys who handled the gun or pulled the trigger reported that they had previously received some sort of gun safety instruction. Conclusion. Many 8- to 12-year-old boys will handle a handgun if they find one. Guns that are kept in homes should be stored in a manner that renders them inaccessible to children.guns, weapons, firearms, children, childhood behavior, injury prevention.
Cavity growth in a triblock copolymer polymer gel

Cavitation rheology is a recently developed measurement method for studying the mechanical properties of polymer gels from sub-micron to millimeter length scales at arbitrary locations within the network material. Current knowledge has focused on understanding the relationship between materials properties, such as modulus or fracture strength, and the maximum pressure for initiating cavitation. After the maximum pressure is reached, the growth of the bubble and the associated pressure drop is sudden and uncontrolled. We develop methods to control the growth of the bubble and to understand the relationship between cavity growth, pressure drop, and the material properties of the surrounding polymer network. We conduct these measurements on swollen networks of a triblock copolymer of poly(methyl methacrylate)–poly(n-butyl acrylate)–poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA–PnBA–PMMA)
Precise measurement of the resolution in light microscopy using Fourier transform.

The resolution power of light microscope has been accurately measured (±5%) by Fourier transform of various object images and further evaluation of the highest spatial frequency in Fourier spectrum. Any unknown shape plane object with a shape feature’s size smaller than the resolution to be measured was shown to provide a reliable resolution test. This simple method gives a direct measurement of the resolution power as defined by Abbe [Archiv. F. Mikroskopische Anat. 9, 413 (1873)]. The results have been justified by comparison to a standard resolution measurement by using calibrated periodic line patterns. Notably, the approach is applicable in super-resolution light microscopy (transmission, reflection, and fluorescence), where calibrated resolution targets do not occur. It was conveniently implemented by using a compact disk as a test object and free IMAGEJ imaging software.
Rate-related and autonomic effects on atrioventricular conduction assessed through beat-to-beat PR interval and cycle length variability.

Atrioventricular Conduction Variability. Introduction: Atrioventricular AV) conduction time varies on a beat-by-beat basis in response to the influences of cardiac efferent autonomic activity and rate-dependent electrical recovery processes. The goals of this study were to distinguish these effects on AV conduction time and to compare the variability in sinoatrial and AV nodal function. Methods and Results: The PR interval on the surface ECG served as an index of AV conduction time in this study of 14 adult human subjects undergoing a random interval breathing protocol. P and R waves were located by a template-matching algorithm. Spectral analysis allowed frequency-domain comparisons between PR and RR interval variability. Spectra of PR and RR intervals had similar power distributions, although the power of the RR interval spectra was much greater. Autonomic blockade with atropine plus propranolol reduced the power of both spectra. Standing significantly decreased the spectral power from 0.15 to 0.5 Hz for PR and RR spectra, and introduced a peak near 0.1 Hz in the mean PR and RR spectra, although the latter finding was significant only for the RR interval spectra. Propranolol had no significant effects on the PR and RR interval spectra. Linear regression analysis allowed quantification of the autonomic and recovery effects on AV conduction and showed which effect predominated. Simple linear regression confirmed in adults a previous finding in children that conduction time may be either positively or negatively correlated with cycle length. By multiple regression and transfer function analysis, the inverse relation seen in some subjects was attributed to the effect of recovery from the preceding cycle. With the preceding recovery period accounted for, the conduction time and cycle length of the current beat were positively correlated, presumably due to the parallel autonomic effects on the sinoatrial and AV nodes. The magnitude of the recovery effect predicted by the regression analysis was similar to published values. Conclusion: A noninvasive evaluation of the surface ECG can be used to compare variability in AV conduction time and cycle length and characterize the effects of autonomic efferent activity and rate-related recovery on AV nodal function.
Does Religion Matter? Christianity and Public Support for the European Union

This paper considers the relationship between Europeans' religious characteristics and support for the European Union. Using Eurobarometer data from the 1970s through the 1990s, we find that Cathol...
Unsupervised learning with stochastic gradient

A stochastic gradient is formulated based on deterministic gradient augmented with Cauchy simulated annealing capable to reach a global minimum with a convergence speed significantly faster when simulated annealing is used alone. In order to solve space-time variant inverse problems known as blind source separation, a novel Helmholtz free energy contrast function, H=E-T"0S, with imposed thermodynamics constraint at a constant temperature T"0 was introduced generalizing the Shannon maximum entropy S of the closed systems to the open systems having non-zero input-output energy exchange E. Here, only the input data vector was known while source vector and mixing matrix were unknown. A stochastic gradient was successfully applied to solve inverse space-variant imaging problems on a concurrent pixel-by-pixel basis with the unknown mixing matrix (imaging point spread function) varying from pixel to pixel.
The incidence and determinants of multiple corporate directorships

Contrary to the concerns of the Council of Institutional Investors and other shareholder activists, it is reported that the incidence of multiple board memberships appointments by corporate directors is low, with only 4% of the sample holding three or more seats. It is found that directors in regulated industries hold fewer board memberships than those in unregulated businesses. Firm size, board size, firm performance and corporate growth opportunities positively influence the number of directorships held by individual directors. It is further discovered that increased equity ownership of the firm by the board is associated with fewer external appointments by the board members. It is concluded that proposals to limit the number of directorships held by an individual may be ill-advised.
SU‐GG‐I‐156: Potential Sources of Variation in Quantitative Ultrasound Quality Control Measurements

Purpose: The AAPM Ultrasound Task Group No. 1 has recommended various quality control (QC) tests for ultrasound systems, including quantitative measures of spatial resolution (via full width half maximum, or FWHM) and depth of penetration (DOP) of the ultrasound beam. In our department, FWHM and DOP are measured using spatial measurement tools built into the ultrasound system software. However, the measurements are subjective, compounding variations in how each physicist makes the measurements with variations in the performance of the ultrasound system. Here, we seek to determine the role of these user‐based measurement variations. Method and Materials: To remove user subjectivity, a Matlab program was written to automate the measurement of FWHM and DOP, requiring the user only to draw a cross‐section through the filament target in the phantom (for FWHM) and define the edges of the images (for DOP). The automated software was used to analyze QC images for L12‐5 ultrasound transducers (n=11) used with Philips iU22 scanners;analysis was performed by three physics technologists, all of whom have been trained to routinely perform ultrasound QC. Results were compared with historical measurements made by visual inspection.Results: The two measurement techniques yielded axial and lateral FWHM values that differed by an average of 18% and 15%, respectively. The manual measurements had a range of 0.56mm and 0.47mm, respectively, while the automated measurements had an average range of 0.28mm and 0.13mm. The automated DOP measurements differed from the manual measurements by an average of 3.9mm±5.9mm; there was little difference in the range of DOP values. Conclusion: While little improvement was seen in the measurement of DOP, images that did not meet the criteria set forth by TG1 for FWHM when measured manually passed using the automated technique. This highlights the importance of distinguishing between user‐ and equipment‐dependent variations in QC measurements.
Isolation and nucleotide sequence of cDNA clones encoding potato chitinase genes.

We have isolated chitinase cDNA and genomic clones from potato which restriction mapping and sequencing data indicate represent at least four different genes. This communication reports the sequence of one cDNA clone
The effects of expertise on financial problem solving: Evidence for goal-directed, problem-solving scripts

Abstract The information-selection and problem-solving strategies of experts and novices presented with a complex, real-world retirement planning task were studied. Two extreme groups of financial planning expertise were created from a sample of 21 on the basis of their (1) occupational reputations, and (2) performance on a comprehensive financial knowledge questionnaire. Subjects were required to decide, in a two-phase experimental task, whether or not a hypothetical young couple should invest in an Individual Retirement Account. In the first phase, subjects listed the specific information they would need to make an informed decision. In the second phase, they were provided with the specific, detailed data they had requested and were asked to “think-aloud” as they worked toward a problem solution. A process-tracing technique was used to analyze the think-aloud protocols with the data revealing basic differences in a variety of problem-solving processes as a function of expertise. Experts solved the problem in less time using fewer overall steps to complete the task, appearing much more goal-directed than novices who engaged in complicated information search strategies which lacked both coherence and efficiency. Moreover, at the outset of the task, experts requested higher-level task information than novices, demonstrating a superior initial representation of the problem. The results are interpreted as support for a script-based model of expert performance.
Relevance feedback at the INEX 2004 workshop

In 2004, the INitiative for the Evaluation of XML Retrieval (INEX), in its third year of investigations into various aspects of theoretical and applied structured retrieval, added a Relevance Feedback (RF) Track. The purpose of this Track is to explore issues related to the use of relevance feedback in a structured environment. Because the interim between the receipt of relevance assessments by Workshop participants and the due date of their papers was relatively short, the amount of time available for experiments was limited. However, three groups reported early experiments: Mass and Mandelbrod (Relevance Feedback for XML Retrieval); Mihajlovic, Ramirez, de Vries, Hiemstra, and Blok (TIJAH at INEX 2004 Modeling Phrases and Relevance Feedback); and Crouch, Majahan and Bellamkonda (Flexible Retrieval Based on the Vector Space Model).
Analog-to-Digital Conversion Techniques

Explains the overall design, performance, and applications of analog-to-digital conversion techniques Discusses sampling, quantizing, and coding—the basis for pulse code modulation Covers linear and logarithmic PCM, with emphasis on international standards for voice transmission Describes techniques such as differential PCM and delta modulation that apply to highly correlated signals (speech or video) Compares the performance of pulse code modulation, delta modulation, and differential PCM, including the effects of transmission error rate and multiple A/D coding Describes the basic principles of vocoding techniques and hybrid coders Compares speech coding techniques with respect to transmission bit rate and quality Describes principles of video coding
Gaussian particle filtering for tracking maneuvering targets

Tracking for maneuvering targets in the presence of clutter is a challenging problem. In this paper, we present an algorithm for reliable tracking of maneuvering targets based on Gaussian particle filtering (GPF) techniques. It has been shown that sequential Monte Carlo (SMC) methods outperform the various Kalman filter based algorithms for nonlinear tracking models. The SMC, also known as particle filtering, methods approximate the posterior probability distribution of the parameter of interest using discrete random measures. GPF is another variant of the SMC methods which approximates the posterior distribution using a single Gaussian filter. Unlike the standard SMC methods GPF does not require particle resampling. This distinct advantage makes GPF to be easily amenable to parallel implementation using VLSI. The proposed tracker is tested in a fairly complex target trajectory. The target maneuvering is simulated using Markov jump process of three kinematics models having different accelerations. Computer simulations show the proposed algorithm exhibits excellent tracking capability in a fairly complex target maneuvering.
Dose Enhancement and Reduction in SiO $_{2}$ and High- $\kappa$ MOS Insulators

The effects of 10-keV X-rays and 400-keV endpoint-energy bremsstrahlung X-rays on MOS capacitors with SiO2 or HfO2 gate dielectrics and Al and TaSi gate metallization have been studied using the Monte Carlo simulator, MRED. We compare these calculations with previous results in the literature obtained with other Monte Carlo and discrete ordinates codes, and with experiments on devices with SiO2 gate dielectrics, and find generally good agreement. There is a significant dose reduction in thin HfO2 layers exposed to 10-keV X-rays, when the HfO2 is surrounded by lower-Z materials (e.g., Si, Al). This dose reduction does not occur in a medium-energy bremsstrahlung X-ray environment; in that case, the dose in a HfO2 gate dielectric can be ~10 times higher than the dose in a SiO2 dielectric, for the same incident X-ray fluence. These results demonstrate the capability of MRED to assist in the evaluation of dose enhancement and reduction in regions including or nearby high-Z materials in microelectronic materials and devices.
Desmoplastic melanoma: A review

Desmoplastic melanoma (DM) is a variant of spindle cell melanoma typically found on chronically sun-damaged skin of older individuals. Early diagnosis can be challenging because it is often amelanotic and has a predominantly dermal component. DM can be difficult to diagnose not only clinically but also histologically, and can be mistaken for a variety of benign and malignant nonmelanocytic spindle cell tumors when viewed on prepared histopathology slides. Pathologists have observed that DMs can manifest significant variation with respect to the extent of intratumoral cellularity, fibrosis, and/or perineural invasion. Furthermore, some tumors present with a pure desmoplastic invasive component (>90%) while other tumors display mixed features of DM and nondesmoplastic melanoma. This has led to the separation of DM into 2 histologic subtypes, pure and mixed. With a focus on the distinction between pure and mixed DM, this review will detail what is currently known about the diagnostic features of DM, discuss risk and prognostic factors, and examine the current literature on disease progression and management.
The Postmyocardial Infarction Syndrome Vanished or Vanquished? A Twenty-Five-Year Follow-up A Case Report

Although the existence of the postmyocardial infarction syndrome has now long been questioned, the Dressler symptom complex remains widely accepted as a distinct clinical entity. A patient is described whose twenty-five-year follow-up adds to our argument that there is no late or separate multisystem autoimmune disease following acute myocardial infarction. It is suggested that the Dressler complex is an entity that has neither vanished nor been vanquished but one that may never have existed.
Some Advice for Minorities and Women on the Receiving End of Health-care Disparities

The pervasive, distressing realities of health-care disparities were well documented in the milestone publication by the Institute of Medicine in 2003. This work reviewed numerous articles published in peer-reviewed journals showing disparities in health care for a number of groups in our society, including African Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans, Latinos, and women. These disparities are caused by conscious and subconscious bias, stereotyping, racism, and sexism in our society. Although not enough, there are numerous programs and activities designed to eliminate health-care disparities. Health literacy is one element that is helpful in improving anyone’s health care. For those who are at risk to experience health-care disparities, a patient education program is thought to be helpful, although presenting without evidence basis. If patients at risk for health-care disparities can be educated to have the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to negotiate a system wrought with disparities, this would be helpful in diminishing the existence of these disparities. Fifteen specific recommendations are offered which together are expected to provide considerable help in diminishing health-care disparities in the at-risk patient population. A brief explanation of the reason and rationale for the recommendations is offered as needed. A presentation of the patient’s rights and responsibilities is provided to help patients cope in this current medical environment. These rights and responsibilities are well-regarded examples of current best practices.
Ascorbate peroxidase: A novel antioxidant enzyme in insects

larvae. We thank T. Meade for his thorough and invaluable editing. We also thank D. Johnson,and P. Mathews for their efforts as reviewers. This work was approved for publication by theDirector, Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, manuscript 95140.Sponsored by USDA-NRICGP (93-37302-9571).*Correspondence to: M. Claravon Mathews, Department of Entomology, 321 Agriculture Bldg.,University of Arkansas, Fayetteville AR 72701.Received 16 November 1995; accepted 29 May 1996.Abbreviations used: AFR = ascorbate free radical; AFRR = ascorbate free radical reductase; APOX= ascorbate peroxidase; ASC = ascorbate; DHA = dehydroascorbate; DHAR = dehydroascorbatereductase; EDTA = ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid; GPOX = glutathione peroxidase; GSH =glutathione; H
The solution of elasticity problems for the half-space by the method of Green and Collins

The paper reviews the method of complex potential functions developed by Green and Collins as applied to axisymmetric mixed boundary value problems in elasticity for the half-space. It is shown how the method can be applied to problems in several coupled potential functions such as adhesive and frictional contact problems, to problems involving annular regions and to problems in thermoelasticity. Attention is given to the question of choosing a formulation which leads to a well-behaved numerical solution. Tables are given of the most commonly needed inversion formulae and of expressions for total load and stress intensity factor.
Diagnostic alarm sequence maturation in timed failure propagation graphs

Diagnostic model development presents a significant engineering challenge to ensure subsequent diagnostic processes using such models will yield accurate results. One approach to developing system-level diagnostic models that has been receiving attention is the Timed Failure Propagation Graph (TFPG), developed at Vanderbilt University. Unfortunately, developing TFPG models is also difficult and error-prone. In this paper, we extend previous work in using historical maintenance and diagnostic information to identify potential errors in the TFPG-based diagnostic models and recommend ways of maturing these models. This is done by extending the maturation process to incorporate historical alarm sequences and to model these sequences using a probabilistic transition matrix (similar to a Markov chain). The resulting sequence model is compared to the causal relationships identified in the original TFPG to discover discrepancies between the two. Potential sequence modeling errors with recommendations are given back to an engineer or analyst. We report on the maturation process and algorithms and also provide preliminary experimental results.
Devolving Regulatory Authority:The Federal and State Response

One of the major legacies of the Reagan administration was its devolution of regulatory authority to the states, particularly in the area of environmental protection. The article descr&es how federal officials at EPA and the OfFce of Surface Mining (Department of the Interior) transferred regulatory responsibility to the states and how state officials initially responded to devolution. In a number of states, regulatory officials clwse to vigorously enforcefederal environmental standards despite the administration's desire for a more relaxed approach to regulation. Haoever, euidence generated by the GAO and others suggest that many of the states lacked the willingness and ability to effectively shoulder their new responsibilities. By the end of the Reagan administration, opposition to devolution had emergedfrom a number of quarters and administration officials were faced with, once again, refashioning the regulatory partnership.
Some reactions to the advent of campaigning by radio

How did the social commentators and critics of the day react to the first uses of radio for national political campaigning? Many of them showed a great deal of foresight; more perhaps than the politicians themselves. Quoting from newspapers and periodicals of the time, the author of this article concentrates on the effects of some of the earliest non‐entertainment American broadcast programming—the election campaigns of 1924. Dr. G. Joseph Wolfe is associate professor of radio‐tv‐film in the department of Speech and Dramatic Art at the University of Missouri.
DC modeling and characterization of AlGaAs/GaAs heterojunction bipolar transistors for high-temperature applications

The large signal dc characteristics of AlGaAs/GaAs heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBT) at high temperatures (27/spl deg/-300/spl deg/C) are reported. A high-temperature SPICE model is developed which includes the recombination-generation current components and avalanche multiplication which become extremely important at high temperatures. The effect of avalanche breakdown is also included to model the current due to thermal generation of electron/hole pairs causing breakdown at high temperatures. A parameter extraction program is developed and used to extract the model parameters of HBT's at different temperatures. Fitting functions for the model parameters as a function of temperature are developed. These parameters are then used in the SPICE Ebers-Moll model for the dc characterization of the HBT at any temperature between (27/spl deg/-300/spl deg/C). >