cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Third ventricle World Health Organization Grade II meningioma presenting with intraventricular hemorrhage and obstructive hydrocephalus: A case report and literature review.

Background Third ventricular meningiomas are exceedingly rare intracranial tumors that may present with intraventricular hemorrhage. Case description The patient is 46-year-old who initially presented with obstructive hydrocephalus from a presumed vascular lesion and who was treated with endoscopic third ventriculostomy. He presented 3 years later with acute intraventricular hemorrhage and hydrocephalus. The hemorrhage was evacuated and the third ventricular tumor was resected, and the patient made an excellent recovery. Histopathological analysis identified the tumor as the World Health Organization Grade II meningioma. Conclusion Third ventricular meningioma is a rare tumor that may present with hemorrhage and obstructive hydrocephalus. Surgical resection can be helpful for this rare presentation of intracranial meningioma.
Low Power Analog Coherent Links for Next-Generation Datacenters

Ever-increasing bandwidth demand in datacenter networks makes a move to coherent links seem inevitable. An “analog coherent” approach using optical phase locked loops can enable low-power consumption, expanded link budgets, low-latency, and future bandwidth scalability. © 2019 The Author(s)
Biliteracy and Translanguaging in Dual-Language Bilingual Education

Using translanguaging as a resource has the potential to transform biliteracy instruction in dual-language bilingual education (DLBE). In a flexible model of biliteracy, the students’ full repertoire of resources is used to interact with texts that are written in different named languages as they think discuss, interact with, and produce written texts (Garcia O. Bilingual education in the 21st century: a global perspective. Malden/Oxford, Wiley/Blackwell, 2009). In this article, we provide an example of this flexible model of biliteracy from a case study involving a third-grade dual-language bilingual teacher. The teacher designed a translanguaging space to create more holistic ways of doing biliteracy that allowed students to use their full linguistic repertoire for literacy performances. To do this, the teacher’s stance about keeping the two languages in her DLBE class separate first had to change. She started consciously integrating what students were learning to do during English literacy and social studies instruction into her Spanish literacy instruction. She then designed a translanguaging instructional and assessment space she called Los circulos. In that space bilingual students take what they have learned across other content areas in instructional spaces dedicated to English and Spanish and do biliteracy juntos.
El antiguo puerto maya de Conil

Una revision de los datos arqueologicos, historicos y cartograficos indica que el puerto y asentamiento prehispanico y colonial de Conil se ubicaba en los alrededores del moderno puerto y sitio arqueologico de Chiquila, en la orilla sur de la Bahia de Yalahau en la costa norte de Quintana Roo. Ciertas evidencias tambien sugieren que Conil fue un importante puerto de comercio de larga distancia, y posible capital de una provincia costera en tiempos prehispanicos.
Forage yield and nutritive quality of summer-planted annual forages in semi-arid regions after irrigated wheat or in a dryland cropping rotation

ABSTRACT Objectives Two experiments evaluated (1) annual forages planted after wheat harvest with limited irrigation or (2) annual forage mixtures compared with monocultures in a dryland rotation in a semi-arid region. Material and Methods In Exp. 1, sorghum sudangrass (SS), oats (OAT), and foxtail millet (FM) were planted on 2 dates (D1, D2) following irrigated wheat harvest in a split plot design. In Exp. 2, SS and FM were compared with forage mixtures containing SS or FM and soybeans and forage collards (SC), or cowpeas and forage collards (CC), in a randomized design. Results and Discussion In Exp. 1, yr 1, SS had greater yield at D1 (P 0.81). The SS, OAT, and FM did not differ at D2 (P > 0.15). In yr 2, yield was greater (P Implications and Applications Early-planted annual forages in irrigated wheat stubble have the greatest yield and are acceptable standing winter forage. Annual forage mixtures planted in a dryland crop rotation were not as cost effective as monocultures. Annual forages can be used in semi-arid regions where perennial forage is limited.
AMPK Protects Against Energy Stress and Maintains Histone Acetylation in Leukemia-Initiating-Cell

Abstract Maintaining metabolic homeostasis is a fundamental requirement for cells to survive. One critical requirement is to accomplish a balance between anabolism and catabolism. AMPK regulates this balance by directly sensing AMP-to-ATP ratio and its activation during cell energy deficit promotes ATP production and inhibits ATP usage. Several pieces of evidence point AMPK as a tumor suppressor: the upstream protein, LKB1, is a well-established tumor suppressor; AMPK negatively interacts with the tumor promoting mTOR pathway; anti-diabetic drugs such as metformin with tumor preventive potential are shown to activate AMPK. However, emerging evidence accumulates to support an opposite role of AMPK in promoting tumor growth. AMPK is found to protect tumor cells from metabolic crisis through different mechanisms: autophagy induction; maintaining proper ATP levels and redox environment; histone H2B tail phosphorylation. These two contrasting findings suggested multiple facets of AMPK, thus pointing to the urge to understand mechanisms of AMPK in specific contexts. We examined the role of AMPK by deleting both α1 and α2 subunit in a mouse model of acute myeloid leukemia with t(9;11) translocation. AMPK deficiency depletes the leukemia-initiating-cell population and decreases the leukemogenic potential of these cells. In order to study the metabolic regulatory effects of AMPK, we profiled the metabolites and found AMPK deficiency associates with a decreased level of glycolytic activity and reduction of acetyl-CoA, which is the major donor for histone acetylation. Therefore, we hypothesized that AMPK can affect histone acetylation through regulating the level of acetyl-CoA, and functionally alter leukemogenic potential. We first profiled histone acetylation using western blot with antibodies targeting global histone acetylation and specific histone residues. Intriguingly, we found in AMPK-deficient cells, global histone H3 and H4 acetylation levels are decreased, as well as acetylation at specific histone residues such as H3K9, H3K27 and H4K8. To build a causal link between decreased acetyl-CoA and histone acetylation, we supplemented leukemia-initiating-cells in culture with acetyl-CoA precursors such as acetate and pyruvate. The supplementation successfully increased intracellular acetyl-CoA levels as well as histone acetylation levels. Functionally restoring the intracellular acetyl-CoA and histone acetylation increased the proliferative potential of AMPK-deficient leukemia-initiating-cells and maintained cell at a more undifferentiated state. These results suggest that AMPK regulates a set of leukemogenic genes by maintaining histone acetylation levels. We hypothesize that AMPK links metabolic status to epigenetic gene regulation to promote leukemogenesis. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Structure of Sonic Hedgehog protein in complex with zinc(II) and magnesium(II) reveals ion-coordination plasticity relevant to peptide drug design.

The Hedgehog pathway is an essential cell-signaling paradigm implicated in cancer tumorigenesis and the developmental disorder holoprosencephaly, making it an attractive target for therapeutic design. The N-terminal domain of the Sonic Hedgehog protein (Shh-N) is the essential signaling molecule in the Hedgehog pathway. In this role Shh-N interacts with its cognate membrane receptor Patched, as well as the regulatory proteins HHIP and CDO, by utilizing interfaces harboring one or more divalent ions. Here, the crystal structure of human Shh-N is presented at 1.43 A resolution, representing a landmark in the characterization of this protein. The structure reveals that the conserved Zn2+-binding site adopts an atypical octahedral coordination geometry, whereas an adjacent binding site, normally occupied by binuclear Ca2+, has been supplanted by a single octahedrally bound Mg2+. Both divalent sites are compared with those in previous Shh-N structures, which demonstrates a significant degree of plasticity of the Shh-N protein in terms of divalent ion binding. The presence of a high Mg2+ concentration in the crystallization medium appears to have influenced metal loading at both metal ion-binding sites. These observations have technical and design implications for efforts focused on the development of inhibitors that target Shh-N-mediated protein–protein interactions.
Wildlife Forensic Genetics and Biodiversity Conservation: The Intersection of Science, Species Management, and the Law

The essential purpose of biodiversity conservation is to protect individual species and to preserve habitats and ecosystems which have declined in quantity and quality over time as a result of human activities. In some instances, laws have been passed to protect vulnerable resources from overexploitation and to support efforts that address biodiversity conservation. Enforcement of laws intended to protect natural resources can only be accomplished if it can be demonstrated that violations have occurred. With respect to biodiversity conservation, this means being able to protect both the species impacted and their habitat. The protection of individual species requires the ability to characterize species, as well as how those species are structured in animal communities. Forensic science is deeply rooted in international legal systems, dating back to the first use of fingerprints to identify deceased humans in China in the 700s. The field of wildlife forensic genetics is currently used to support wildlife law enforcement investigations. The evolution of wildlife forensic genetics closely follows the use of genetic technologies in the field of human forensic identification, with some significant differences in its application for wildlife law enforcement. In this chapter, we will provide an overview of how wildlife forensic genetics intersects with biodiversity conservation efforts and provide case studies which illustrate the diverse application of forensic genetics to the enforcement of wildlife conservation laws.
Obituary for Prof. Yuri Raizer

With deep sadness we inform that on 25 June 2021 our teacher and colleague Yuri Raizer passed away [...]
Female Students in Quantitative Courses: An Exploration of their Motivational Sources, Learning Strategies, Learning Behaviors, and Course Achievement

This study investigates factors that stimulate better academic performance for female students in learning quantitative topics, such as those involving mathematical-related tasks. We explore the differences in self-regulated learning (e.g., sources of motivation and execution of learning strategies), learning behaviors, and learning achievement of female students in quantitative courses. A combination of primary survey data and secondary data from the course-specific Learning Management System (LMS) is used in this study to identify differences between the four grade groups (e.g., students earning final grades A, B, C, and D & F). Findings reveal that the higher-grade groups have stronger metacognitive self-regulation, elaboration, time and study environment management, and effort regulation skills than the lower-grade groups. The higher-grade groups also have stronger self-efficacy, lower test anxiety, more LMS activities, and earlier assignment and quiz submissions. The lower-grade group students consistently submit assignments at the last minute and show fewer LMS activities overall. Our findings have important implications for instructors, academic administrators, and scholars in promoting female students’ self-regulated learning in quantitative courses.
Kinetic characterization of a novel endo-β-N-acetylglucosaminidase on concentrated bovine colostrum whey to release bioactive glycans

EndoBI-1 is a recently isolated endo-β-N-acetylglucosaminidase, which cleaves the N-N'-diacetyl chitobiose moiety found in the N-glycan core of high mannose, hybrid and complex N-glycans. These N-glycans have selective prebiotic activity for a key infant gut microbe, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis. The broad specificity of EndoBI-1 suggests the enzyme may be useful for many applications, particularly for deglycosylating milk glycoproteins in dairy processing. To facilitate its commercial use, we determined kinetic parameters for EndoBI-1 on the model substrates ribonuclease B and bovine lactoferrin, as well as on concentrated bovine colostrum whey. Km values ranging from 0.25 to 0.49, 0.43 to 1.00 and 0.90 to 3.18 mg/mL and Vmax values ranging from 3.5×10(-3) to 5.09×10(-3), 4.5×10(-3) to 7.75×10(-3) and 1.9×10(-2)to 5.2×10(-2) mg/mL×min were determined for ribonuclease B, lactoferrin and whey, respectively. In general, EndoBI-1 showed the highest apparent affinity for ribonuclease B, while the maximum reaction rate was the highest for concentrated whey. EndoBI-1-released N-glycans were quantified by a phenol-sulphuric total carbohydrate assay and the resultant N-glycan structures monitored by nano-LC-Chip-Q-TOF MS. The kinetic parameters and structural characterization of glycans released suggest EndoBI-1 can facilitate large-scale release of complex, bioactive glycans from a variety of glycoprotein substrates. Moreover, these results suggest that whey, often considered as a waste product, can be used effectively as a source of prebiotic N-glycans.
5.3. Gallium Arsenide

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses that among the III-V semiconductors, GaAs has been extensively studied with most of the effort to date focusing on the surface that can be prepared by cleavage. GaAs is of the zincblende structure that has fcc translational symmetry with a two atom basis; a Ga atom at (0, 0, 0) and an As atom at (1/4, 1/4, 1/4) of the nonprimitive fcc unit cube. There are four nearest neighbor bonds of length 0.245 nm to each atom with the bonds separated by the tetrahedral angle of 109.47°. GaAs cleaves easily on the family of planes, exposing a “nonpolar” crystal face, because it contains equal numbers of Ga and As atoms. Alternatively, the surface is a “polar” surface that can be terminated ideally by pure Ga or As atoms. It reviews that in reality; the termination is varied and depends on the precise surface preparation that can alter the ratio of surface Ga to As atoms. The bonding in GaAs and III-V semiconductors is described as mixed ionic and covalent in character. The partially ionic character results from the difference in electronegativity of Ga and As is seen clearly in the calculated charge density contours. It discusses that the surface bonds leads to marked voltage dependence in the STM imaging demonstrated on the surfaces. This selective imaging of the Ga or As species depends on tunneling into empty states, versus tunneling from filled states of the GaAs.
Some Effects of Viscosity on Wing-Body Interference at M = 1.9

Interference pressure distribution data were obtained at M = 1.9 for the body of a flat rectangular wing-cylindrical body combination with a laminar boundary layer on the body. The results are compared with earlier experimental results obtained with a turbulent boundary layer on the body and with the linearized inviscid theory of NACA T N 2677. The experimental results agree well with theory except for viscous effects not predicted by the theory. Qualitative similarity of the shock-wave and laminar boundarylayer interaction to the two-dimensional case is noted. Body lift loading due to interference for two configurations representing missiles with wings or control surfaces near the tail is discussed.
Frequency selective RF channel simulator

Performance prediction for wideband communications systems requires a realistic simulation of the RF channel time and frequency-varying characteristics. It is well known that a lapped-delay line filter with time-varying coefficients can be used to represent a frequency selective channel. However, generating the coefficients required to model various scintillation and multipath conditions is not a simple task. The paper describes a software frequency selective channel simulator and the channel effects modeled using a complex exponential series approximation to the channel scattering function. Examples of using the software simulator to create and validate channel models are discussed.
Equality and Inequality: Legal Aspects

Law's role in advancing equality remains a focal point of attention and controversy in both theory and practice. Many of the recurring disagreements in case law, commentary, and politics can be traced to different theories of inequality, informed by differing conceptions of law's role in its remediation. These theories, in turn, reflect differences in the underlying assumptions about the causes of inequality, the continuing significance of identity and discrimination, the appropriateness of considering race and other social categories in remedying inequality, the appropriate balance between inequality and competing values, and the legitimate role of courts and the state more generally in addressing social problems. Courts in the United States and the European Union increasingly use equality theory to police the boundaries of efforts by other public and private actors to address persistent inequality, particularly racial inequality. This article lays out four major approaches to inequality and how they operate differently in judicial and nonjudicial venues: (1) formal inequality of treatment, (2) structural inequality, (3) outcome inequality, and (4) inequality of access. It includes discussion of novel equality theories that have emerged in legal arenas outside the courts and identifies theories designed to reduce the conflict between equality as defined by the courts and nonjudicial bodies pursuing policies aimed at reducing inequality.
Processes and Outcomes of a Mentoring Program for Latino College Freshmen

The goals of this research program were to develop, implement, and evaluate a mentoring program for Latino college freshmen and to identify processes that account for the effects of the program. In two longitudinal studies, at-risk Latino freshmen (mentees) were mentored from fall to spring by upper division or graduate students from psychology and counseling majors and compared in the spring to an equivalent sample of nonmentored students (nonmentees). In both studies, mentees showed improvement in psychosocial factors that underlie academic performance. In the second study, mentees decreased in depression and stress and were less likely than nonmentees be classified as being at risk for poor academic outcomes. The amount of mentor–mentee contact and the quality of the relationship contributed to positive outcomes for mentees. Results suggest that mentors are of value in alleviating psychosocial risk factors. Selecting at-risk students and using experienced peers as mentors make the program cost effective.
Drug-induced nutritional deficiencies

Drugs can cause impairment in nutritional status when they produce one or more of the following effects: 1 Anorexia with depression of food intake 2 Malabsorption 3 Vitamin antagonism 4 Mineral depletion 5 Catabolic stress with loss of lean body mass.
Heat-transfer predictions and experiments in a motored engine

In the first part of this study, a one-dimensional code was used to compare predictions from six different two-equation turbulence models. It is shown that the application of the traditional K-E models to the viscous-dominated region of the boundary layer can produce errors in both the calculated heat flux and surface friction. A low-Reynolds-number model does hot appear to predict similar non-physical effects. A new one-dimensional model, which includes the effect of compression, has been formulated by multiparameter fit to the numerical solution of the energy equation. This model can be used in place of the law-of-the-wall to calculate the surface heat flux. The experiments were performed in a specially-instrumented engine, allowing optical access to the clearance volume . Measurements of heat flux, swirl velocities, and momentum boundary layer thickness were made for different engine speeds. Comparison of the model predictions with the results from the experiment showed good agreement.
Vitamin K supplementation reduces serum concentrations of under-γ-carboxylated osteocalcin in healthy young and elderly adults

Background Subclinical vitamin K insufficiency, manifested by under-gamma-carboxylation of the bone matrix protein osteocalcin, may be common. Objective Our objective was to delineate the prevalence of submaximal gamma-carboxylation as assessed by response to phylloquinone supplementation and to evaluate the effect of this intervention on skeletal turnover in healthy North American adults. Design Healthy subjects (n = 219), approximately equally distributed by sex and age (18-30 y and >/=65 y), received daily phylloquinone (1000 microg) or placebo for 2 wk. Serum undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) and total osteocalcin, N:-telopeptides of type I collagen (NTx), bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BSAP), and phylloquinone concentrations were measured at baseline and after weeks 1 and 2. Results At baseline, the mean serum phylloquinone concentration was lower in the young than in the old group; there was no effect of sex. Concomitantly, baseline %ucOC was highest in the young and lowest in the old men (P: 1% decrease. Phylloquinone supplementation reduced serum osteocalcin but did not alter NTx or BSAP concentration. Conclusions Usual dietary practices in this population did not provide adequate vitamin K for maximal osteocalcin carboxylation. Phylloquinone supplementation reduced serum osteocalcin concentration but did not alter other markers of serum bone turnover.
Are commonly used premedical school or medical school measures associated with board certification

ABSTRACT Purpose: To determine if there is an association between several commonly obtained premedical school and medical school measures and board certification performance. We specifically included measures from our institution for which we have predictive validity evidence into the internship year. We hypothesized that board certification would be most likely to be associated with clinical measures of performance during medical school, and with scores on standardized tests, whether before or during medical school. Methods: Achieving board certification in an American Board of Medical Specialties specialty was used as our outcome measure for a 7-year cohort of graduates (1995–2002). Age at matriculation, Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) score, undergraduate college grade point average (GPA), undergraduate college science GPA, Uniformed Services University (USU) cumulative GPA, USU preclerkship GPA, USU clerkship year GPA, departmental competency committee evaluation, Internal Medicine (IM) clerksh...
Theory of MNOS memory device behavior

This paper extends the direct-tunneling theory of MNOS memory device behavior to account for traps that are distributed both spatially and energetically. It shows that the Pulver and Dorda model is a special case of the Ross and Wallmark model, which is itself a restricted version of the more general theory proposed here. A general equation for the total charge transfer is derived, for monoenergetic and for energetically uniform trap distributions, for high fields as well as low fields. The theory predicts the time dependence of the total charge transfer to be initially linear, then roughly logarithmic, and finally to reach saturation. There is no essential difference in the results whether the trap distribution is monoenergetic or energetically uniform. The operational dependence on characteristic parameters is investigated and found to be greatest for changes in the extent of spatial distribution of traps. The switching time varies inversely with trap density and tunnelling probability, and exponentially with the oxide thickness.
The sociobiologic integrative model (SBIM): Enhancing the integration of sociobehavioral, environmental, and biomolecular knowledge in urban health and disparities research

Disentangling the myriad determinants of disease, within the context of urban health or health disparities, requires a transdisciplinary approach. Transdisciplinary approaches draw on concepts from multiple scientific disciplines to develop a novel, integrated perspective from which to conduct scientific investigation. Most historic and contemporary conceptual models of health were derived either from the sociobehavioral sciences or the biomolecular sciences. Those models deriving from the sociobehavioral sciences generally lack detail on involved biological mechanisms whereas those derived from the biomolecular sciences largely do not consider socioenvironmental determinants. As such, advances in transdisciplinary characterizations of health in complex systems like the urban environment or health disparities may be impeded. This paper suggests a sociobiologic organizing model that encourages a multilevel, integrative perspective in the study of urban health and health disparities.
The Right to Organize in the Philippine Business Process Outsourcing Industry

Abstract There has been some concern over the past few years that nations with emerging economies are sacrificing human dignity over economic progress. An emerging market such as the Philippines has to deal with a host of economic, social, and political issues as its economy develops. One of the issues that concern those who are involved in human rights advocacy is labor rights. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the labor rights issues surrounding the Philippine business process outsourcing (BPO) industry, specifically the right to organize. It also aims to investigate how the changing structure of the Philippine economy has affected the labor rights of its people. This paper will use the BPO industry in the Philippines as a case study. This paper will also try to compare the Philippine experience with those of other countries in order to put its findings in context. Finally, the paper shall examine the effects of globalization on workers’ ability to organize and advocate for their rights.
An elementary derivation of the density of states function for continuum states

The density of states function for continuum states in the presence of a nuclear Coulomb field is derived by the Sommerfeld-Weyl eigendifferential method.
The Importance of Influencing Nursing Students' Attitudes Toward Older Adults

The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to determine if a course in gerontology would improve baccalaureate senior nursing students' attitudes toward older adults and increase their interest in working with older persons as clients. The course concentrated on aging as a positive experience. Clinical experience involved health assessment and health promotion with well older people in their homes and in senior citizen centers. Attitudes of students who were enrolled in the course were compared to those of fellow classmates who were not. As predicted, those who participated in the gerontologic course scored significantly higher on a “facts on aging” quiz and showed a more positive net bias toward older adults than the control group. Their interest in working with older people also increased. More emphasis must be placed on decreasing stereotype attitudes of nurses. Those who view the older adult in a more positive image will be increasingly likely to become involved in program planning and research in the area of health promotion and disease prevention for the older population.
Dependence of Acute Myeloid Leukemia on Adhesion within the Bone Marrow Microenvironment

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells home to the endosteal region of the bone marrow. They interact with bone marrow stromal components including extracellular matrix proteins, glycosaminoglycans, and stromal cells, by which they derive proliferative and growth inhibitory signals. Furthermore, adhesion to marrow stroma confers chemotherapy drug resistance and thereby promotes leukemia survival. A subpopulation of the leukemic blasts, known as leukemia stem cells, that are capable of propagating the leukemia, remain sheltered in the bone marrow microenvironment, exhibit resistance to chemotherapy, and serve as the origin of relapse after a variable period of remission. Detachment of these cells from the bone marrow in combination with chemotherapy may improve the outcome of therapy for AML.
AC-Mode Short-Wavelength IR Radiation Thermometers for Measurement of Ambient Temperatures

Recent improvements in the fabrication of short-wave infrared (SW-IR) quantum detectors have opened a new era in radiation thermometry. Ambient and higher temperatures can be measured with low uncertainties using thermoelectrically (TE) cooled extended-InGaAs (E-IGA) and short-wave photovoltaic-HgCdTe (SW-MCT) detectors. Since these detectors have low cut-off wavelengths (2.5 μm and 2.8 μm, respectively), they do not respond past cut-off and are less sensitive to the background infrared radiation, resulting in orders of magnitude lower background noise than traditional broad-band infrared detectors such as cryogenically cooled quantum detectors or thermal detectors. At the same time, the cut-off is far enough in the infrared to obtain a large enough signal from the source of interest. Because of the low detector cut-off wavelength, traditional glass-based optics can be used in the radiation thermometers. A chopper-produced alternating-current (AC) signal was used to measure low temperatures by separating the AC signal from the background-radiation-produced direct-current (DC) signal and its fluctuations. Design considerations and characteristics of a newly developed SW-IR radiation thermometer are discussed. A noise-equivalent temperature difference (NETD) of < 3mK for a 50°C blackbody was measured. At the human body temperature of 36°C, the obtained NETD of ~10mK indicates that these detectors can be used in non-contact temperature measurements to replace thermopile- or pyroelectric-based radiation thermometers.
Unsupervised learning of human expressions, gestures, and actions

This paper analyzes completely unsupervised clustering of human expressions, gestures, and actions in video. Lacking any supervision, there is nothing except the inherent biases of a given technique to guide grouping of video clips along semantically meaningful partitions. This paper evaluates two contemporary behavior recognition methods, Bag of Features (BOF) and Product Manifolds (PM), for clustering video clips of human facial expressions, hand gestures, and full-body actions. Our goal is to better understand how well these very different approaches to behavior recognition produce semantically useful clustering of relevant data. We show that PM yields superior results when measuring the alignment between the generated clusters over a range of K-values (number of clusters) and the nominal class labelling of the data set. A key result is that unsupervised clustering with PM yields accuracy comparable to state-of-the-art supervised classification methods on KTH Actions. At the same time, BOF experiences a substantial drop in performance between unsupervised and supervised implementations on the same data sets, indicating a greater reliance on supervision for achieving high performance. We also found that while gross motions were easily clustered by both methods, the lack of preservation of structural information inherent to the BOF representation leads to limitations that are not easily overcome without supervised training. This was evidenced by the poor separation of shape labels in the hand gestures data by BOF, and the overall poor performance on full-body actions.
Visual phonetic processing localized using speech and nonspeech face gestures in video and point-light displays

The talking face affords multiple types of information. To isolate cortical sites with responsibility for integrating linguistically relevant visual speech cues, speech and nonspeech face gestures were presented in natural video and point-light displays during fMRI scanning at 3.0T. Participants with normal hearing viewed the stimuli and also viewed localizers for the fusiform face area (FFA), the lateral occipital complex (LOC), and the visual motion (V5/MT) regions of interest (ROIs). The FFA, the LOC, and V5/MT were significantly less activated for speech relative to nonspeech and control stimuli. Distinct activation of the posterior superior temporal sulcus and the adjacent middle temporal gyrus to speech, independent of media, was obtained in group analyses. Individual analyses showed that speech and nonspeech stimuli were associated with adjacent but different activations, with the speech activations more anterior. We suggest that the speech activation area is the temporal visual speech area (TVSA), and that it can be localized with the combination of stimuli used in this study.
Weak and strong uniform consistency of a kernel error density estimator in nonparametric regression

This paper considers the problem of estimating the kernel error density function in nonparametric regression models. Sufficient conditions are given under which the kernel error density estimator based on nonparametric residuals is uniformly weakly and strongly consistent.
Characterization of a hemin-storage locus of Yersinia pestis.

The pigmentation phenotype (Pgm+) ofYersinia pestis refers to temperature-dependent storage of hemin as well as expression of a number of other physiological characteristics. Spontaneous mutation to a Pgm− phenotype occurs via a large chromosomal deletion event and results in the inability to express the Pgm+ characteristics. In this study, we have used transposon insertion mutants to define two regions of a hemin-storage (hms) locus. A clone (pHMSI) encompassing this locus reinstates expression of hemin storage (Hms+) inY. pestis spontaneous Pgm− strains KIM and Kuma but not inEscherichia coli. Complementation analysis using subclones of pHMS1 inY. pestis transposon mutants indicates that both regions (hmsA andhmsB), which are separated by about 4 kb of intervening DNA, are essential for expression of the Hms+ phenotype. The 9.1-kb insert of pHMS1 contains structural genes encoding 90-kDa, 72-kDa, and 37-kDa polypeptides. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis analysis of cells from Pgm+, spontaneous Pgm−, and Hms− transposon strains, as well as a spontaneous Pgm− strain transformed with pHMS1, indicated that two families of surface-exposed polypeptides (of about 87 and 69-73 kDa) are associated with the Hms+ phenotype.
A hybrid MAC protocol with channel-dependent optimized scheduling for clustered underwater acoustic sensor networks

We propose a novel optimal time slot allocation scheme for clustered underwater acoustic sensor networks that leverages physical (PHY) layer information to minimize the energy consumption due to unnecessary retransmissions thereby improving network lifetime and throughput. To reduce the overhead and the computational complexity, we employ a two-phase approach where: (i) each member node takes a selfish decision on the number of time slots it needs during the next intra-cluster cycle by solving a Markov decision process (MDP), and (ii) the cluster head optimizes the scheduling decision based on the channel quality and an urgency factor. To conserve energy, we use a hybrid medium access scheme, i.e., time division multiple access (TDMA) for the intra-cluster communication phase and carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA/CA) for the cluster head-sink communication phase. The proposed MAC protocol is implemented and tested on a real underwater acoustic testbed using SM-75 acoustic modems by Teledyne Benthos. Simulations illustrate an improvement in network lifetime. Additionally, simulations demonstrate that the proposed scheduling scheme with urgency factor achieves a throughput increase of 28% and improves the reliability by up to 25% as compared to the scheduling scheme that neither use MDP nor optimization. Furthermore, testbed experiments show an improvement in throughput by up to 10% along with an improvement in reliability.
Circular dichroism of polynucleotides: Dimers as a function of conformation

Working within the restrictions of a model, we have calculated the circular dichroism of the dinucleoside phosphates ApA, CpC, and CpA for various conformations. Comparing the calculated curves with those measured in aqueous solution we find agreement for (1) ApA as a right-handed helix with both bases either as in B-form DNA, or else rotated 180° around the glycosidic bond, (2) CpC as the right-handed conformation with both bases as in DNA, (3) ApC as either the right-handed conformation with both bases as in DNA, or else as a left-handed helix with both bases rotated 180°, and (4) CpA as either a left-handed helix with both bases in a left-handed DNA, or else in the right-handed conformation with both bases rotated 180°. In addition, we have investigated circular dichroism as a measure of unstacking. We find that opening the bases to a 90° total angle (base planes perpendicular) reduces the intensity of the calculated bands to 20% of their original value. Further, we find that allowing the sliding of one base past the other does not lead to a temperature dependence consistent with experiment.
Synthesis of [99mTc]DTPA-Folate and Its Evaluation as a Folate-Receptor-Targeted Radiopharmaceutical

A DTPA−folate conjugate was radiolabeled with 99mTc by stannous chloride reduction of [99mTc]sodium pertechnetate in an aqueous solution of DTPA−folate. The radiochemical purity of the product consistently exceeded 97%, as assessed by thin-layer chromatography employing conditions analogous to those for radiochemical quality control of the radiopharmaceutical [99mTc]DTPA. HPLC demonstrated that the radiolabeled product resulted from the intact DTPA−folate conjugate and not unconjugated DTPA. The ability of [99mTc]DTPA−folate to target folate receptors in vivo was assessed in biodistribution studies with athymic mice bearing subcutaneous folate-receptor-positive human KB cell tumors. As an internal control, previously studied [111In]DTPA−folate was coinjected with the [99mTc]DTPA−folate, along with varying amounts of DTPA−folate (0.38 mg/kg, 1.6 mg/kg, or 14 mg/kg). At each DTPA−folate dose, [99mTc]DTPA−folate exhibited tumor uptake comparable to that of the coadministered [111In]DTPA−folate, with radiotra...
The role of the OOP antisense RNA in coliphage λ development

We have made a derivative of bacteriophage lambda that makes no OOP antisense RNA. The mutant phage carries a point mutation that inactivates the OOP promoter, po. The phages lambda + and lambda po- have identical plaque morphologies, one-step growth curves, and frequencies of lysogenization of a sensitive host. OOP RNA synthesis is weakly repressed by the Escherichia coli LexA protein. Consonant with this inducibility of OOP RNA synthesis by ultraviolet light, we find a two-fold greater phage burst following ultraviolet induction of a lambda + than of a lambda po- prophage. In lambda + infections, OOP RNA causes two cleavage events in cll mRNA: one is in the 3'-end of the coding region, and the second is in the intercistronic region between the cll and O genes. The cll gene fragments are subject to additional hydrolytic events, and cll mRNA levels are several-fold lower in lambda + than in lambda po- infections late in the infection cycle. However, O mRNA levels are almost unaffected by the po- mutation.
Theory and algorithms for linear multiple objective programs with zero–one variables

A new algorithm and theoretical results are presented for linear multiple objective programs with zero–one variables. A procedure to identify strong and weak efficient points as well as an extension of the main problem are analyzed. Extensive computational results are given and several topics for further research are discussed.
Functionalism and inverted spectra

Functionalism, a philosophical theory, has empirical consequences. Functionalism predicts that where systematic transformations of sensory input occur and are followed by behavioral accommodation in which normal function of the organism is restored such that the causes and effects of the subject’s psychological states return to those of the period prior to the transformation, there will be a return of qualia or subjective experiences to those present prior to the transform. A transformation of this type that has long been of philosophical interest is the possibility of an inverted spectrum. Hilary Putnam argues that the physical possibilty of acquired spectrum inversion refutes functionalism. I argue, however, that in the absence of empirical results no a priori arguments against functionalism, such as Putnam’s, can be cogent. I sketch an experimental situation which would produce acquired spectrum inversion. The mere existence of qualia inversion would constitute no refutation of functionalism; only its persistence after behavioral accommodation to the inversion would properly count against functionalism, The cumulative empirical evidence from experiments on image inversion suggests that the results of actual spectrum inversion would confirm rather than refute functionalism.
Data fluency: curricular issues for all majors (abstract only)

Given the ever-growing importance of data across all disciplines, there is a need to enhance the fluency and comfort with data technology for a diversity of majors, not just technical ones. Which topics should be included in a data fluency course for all majors? A non-exhaustive list of possible topics includes spreadsheets, relations and relational databases, querying, conceptual design, bar graphs, charts, other data visualization, XML, and "Big Data." Join the discussion to brainstorm a data experience for students with diverse majors.
Deployable plates made from stable-element class 1 tensegrity

One of the main properties of tensegrity structures, that sets them apart from most of structures, is that they are vary suitable for shape control. This can be accomplished by controlling lengths of string members. Tensegrity deployment is considered herein as a tracking control problem. Therefore, the required trajectories should be feasible for a given structure. For tensegrity structures, this means that in every desired configuration, the structure has to satisfy tensegrity conditions, which require strings to be in tension, and the structure to be stable. To define an open-loop deployment control law, geometry parameterization of those configurations and corresponding rest lengths of string elements guaranteeing equilibrium are defined first. By slowly varying desired geometry, an open-loop string rest length control is defined. This makes the structure track trajectories defined by the time dependent geometry parameters. Two examples are illustrated: 1. Deployment of planar tensegrity beams made of symmetric stable tensegrity units, $2)$ Deployment of plates made of stable symmetric shell class tensegrity units.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Interaction of the Noncovalent Molecular Adapter, β-Cyclodextrin, with the Staphylococcal α-Hemolysin Pore

Cyclodextrins act as noncovalent molecular adapters when lodged in the lumen of the alpha-hemolysin (alphaHL) pore. The adapters act as binding sites for channel blockers, thereby offering a basis for the detection of a variety of organic molecules with alphaHL as a biosensor element. To further such studies, it is important to find conditions under which the dwell time of cyclodextrins in the lumen of the pore is extended. Here, we use single-channel recording to explore the pH- and voltage-dependence of the interaction of beta-cyclodextrin (betaCD) with alphaHL. betaCD can access its binding site only from the trans entrance of pores inserted from the cis side of a bilayer. Analysis of the binding kinetics shows that there is a single binding site for betaCD, with an apparent equilibrium dissociation constant that varies by >100-fold under the conditions explored. The dissociation rate constant for the neutral betaCD molecule varies with pH and voltage, a result that is incompatible with two states of the alphaHL pore, one of high and the other of low affinity. Rather, the data suggest that the actual equilibrium dissociation constant for the alphaHL. betaCD complex varies continuously with the transmembrane potential.
Coastal Observatory Investigates Energetic Current Oscillations on Southeast Florida Shelf

Coastal circulation along the southeast Florida shelf is strongly related to the dynamics of the Florida Current. The current follows the steep bottom terrain along the shelf break separating the deep ocean from the coastal zone (Figure 1 a, b). Energetic and complex flow regimes arise along the current's western edge, causing transient features such as sub-meso-scale eddies [Lee and Mayer, 1977; Shay et al., 2000] and energetic internal oscillations [Mooers, 1975; Soloviev et al., 2003], which affect mixing between the shelf and deeper ocean waters. Understanding of these regimes is important for modeling and prediction of the coastal circulation on the southeast Florida shelf and description of western boundary current/continental shelf interactions.
Cancer Mortality and Solvent Exposures in the Rubber Industry

Some evidence suggests that solvent exposures to rubber industry workers may be associated with excess cancer mortality, but most studies of rubber workers lack information about specific chemical exposures. In one large rubber and tire-manufacturing plant, however, historical documents allowed a classification of jobs based on potential exposures to all solvents that were authorized for use in the plant. A case-control analysis of a 6678 member cohort compared the solvent exposure histories of a 20% age-stratified random sample of the cohort with those of cohort members who died during 1964–1973 from stomach cancer, respiratory system cancer, prostate cancer, lymphosarcoma, or lymphatic leukemia. Of these cancers, only lymphosarcoma and lymphatic leukemia showed significant positive associations with any of the potential solvent exposures. Lymphatic leukemia was especially strongly related to carbon tetrachloride (OR=15.3, p<.0001) and carbon disulfide (OR=8.9, p=.0003). Lymphosarcoma showed similar, but...
Behavioural aspects of protandrous sex change in the anemonefish, Amphiprion melanopus, and endocrine correlates

Abstract Abstract. Behavioural and endocrine differences between males and females, and during protandrous sex change were characterized in the anemonefish, Amphiprion melanopus. Females are the largest and behaviourally dominant members of social groups, displaying frequent aggression towards their smaller male mates and other smaller non-reproductive individuals. Sex change was stimulated experimentally through female removals in 1989 and 1991. Behavioural samples were taken prior to female removal and from 10 to 45 days after removal in 1989 and 1-20 days after removal in 1991. Sex-changing individuals showed striking increases in aggression within 1 day following female removal. While the frequency of aggressive acts initiated by sex-changing individuals decreased gradually over the 5-, 10- and 20-day samples, it remained significantly elevated over baseline male levels. A decrease in aggression was also observed from 20 to 45 days after female removal in 1989. Presentations of a model intruder to sex-changing individuals at various stages revealed changes to a pattern of territorial defence characteristic of females. Overall aggression increased and the ratio of attacks at the periphery of the territory to those at the centre increased with time after female removal. There was no convincing evidence of a relationship between plasma levels of the five steroids measured and (1) male/female behavioural differences or (2) behavioural changes with sex change.