cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prototype Methods and Nearest-Neighbors

In this chapter we discuss some simple and essentially model-free methods for classification and pattern recognition. Because they are highly unstructured, they typically aren’t useful for understanding the nature of the relationship between the features and class outcome. However, as black box prediction engines, they can be very effective, and are often among the best performers in real data problems. The nearest-neighbor technique can also be used in regression; this was touched on in Chapter 2 and works reasonably well for low-dimensional problems. However, with high-dimensional features, the bias—variance tradeoff does not work as favorably for nearest-neighbor regression as it does for classification.
Measurement and Analysis of Vehicle Vibration for Bottled Water Delivery Trucks

A bottled water delivery truck was instrumented with a field data recorder to analyze the vibration inputs experienced by the freight holding area of the vehicle. Three delivery routes were chosen for this study–rural delivery, highway delivery, and inter-city delivery. Statistically there were no differences between the generated PSD profiles produced from the study, but it was determined the inter-city delivery had the highest overall Grms of the three delivery routes analyzed.
The ghetto of the mind: notes on the historical psychology of Chinese America.

(1971). The Ghetto Of The Mind: Notes On The Historical Psychology Of Chinese America. Amerasia Journal: Vol. 1, No. 3, pp. 1-31.
Chapter 3.3 Toward a neurobiology of episodic memory

Abstract The neurobiology of episodic memory is a particularly challenging problem. On the one hand, an understanding of the functional circuitry that underlies episodic memory depends crucially on experimental analyses using animals where the roles of candidate brain areas can be examined with highly selectively ablation and where memory representations can be characterized at the level of the neuronal units of information processing. Yet the psychological features of episodic memory in animals are unclear and, indeed, the very existence of this kind of memory in animals is in dispute (see Chapter 1.3). Here we offer a framework for a functional and neuroanatomical organization of episodic memory based on studies on animals. Many of the ideas and findings from my own laboratory that will be covered here have been described in other recent reviews (Eichenbaum, 2004; Eichenbaum et al., 2005; Eichenbaum and Fortin, 2005; Eichenbaum et al., 2007; Manns and Eichenbaum, 2006). This work will be summarized here and brought to bear in a proposal for a reconciliation of the debate about episodic memory in animals.
Virtue Ethics: A Misleading Category?

Virtue ethics is standardly taught and discussed as a distinctive approach to the major questions of ethics, a third major position alongside Utilitarian and Kantian ethics. I argue that this taxonomy is a confusion. Both Utilitarianism and Kantianism contain treatments of virtue, so virtue ethics cannot possibly be a separate approach contrasted with those approaches. There are, to be sure, quite a few contemporary philosophical writers about virtue who are neither Utilitarians nor Kantians; many of these find inspiration in ancient Greek theories of virtue. But even here there is little unity. Although certain concerns do unite this disparate group (a concern for the role of motives and passions in good choice, a concern for character, and a concern for the whole course of an agent's life), there are equally profound disagreements, especially concerning the role that reason should play in ethics. One group of modern virtue-theorists, I argue, are primarily anti-Utilitarians, concerned with the plurality of value and the susceptibility of passions to social cultivation. These theorists want to enlarge the place of reason in ethics. They hold that reason can deliberate about ends as well as means, and that reason can modify the passions themselves. Another group of virtue theorists are primarily anti-Kantians. They believe that reason plays too dominant a role in most philosophical accounts of ethics, and that a larger place should be given to sentiments and passions -- which they typically construe in a less reason-based way than does the first group. The paper investigates these differences, concluding that it is not helpful to speak of “virtue ethics,” and that we would be better off characterizing the substantive views of each thinker -- and then figuring out what we ourselves want to say.
On Transforming Ordered Residuals for Purposes of Testing the Correctness of a Regression Model

A logical method is presented for transforming ordered residuals for purposes of testing the correctness of a regression model. The method maintains the same logical ordering in the transformed residuals as that of the original residuals. The method is suitable fcr either uncorrelated or correlated data and requires minimal computational effort. Calculation examples are presented. IN order to eliminate linear dependencies artificially introduced among sample residuals by estimating parameters associated with a given regression model for a set of data, the sample residuals are sometimes transformed to a new, smaller set of residuals which are known to be independently and identically distributed under the correctness of the given model. The correctness of the given model may then be tested by testing the transformed residuals for appropriate properties such as randomness, normality, etc. Several appropriate general transformations have been proposed in the literature (Seber, 1977, p. 172) which .are constructed to produce certain optimal properties, but they seem to be designed for unordered data. They are also involved computationally. When the data are ordered in some logical fashion (e.g., time points of data), the researcher may wish to choose a transformation which maintains the same logical ordering for the transformed residuals. The purpose of the present paper is to propose such a transformation which also requires less computational effort than the general transformations mentioned above. Both ordinary and generalized least squares regression models, which are suitabIe for uncorrelated and correlat
Specificity of sympathetic preganglionic projections in the chick is influenced by the somitic mesoderm

It has been shown that the development of segmentally specific sympathetic preganglionic projections in the chick is influenced by the tissue environment along the pathway of the preganglionic axons. The cellular origin of this influence, however, is not known. In the present study, transplantation of quail somites into chick hosts showed that the cells in the local environment of the sympathetic trunk are derived from the somite. Surgical manipulations of chick somites then were performed to investigate whether somites play a role in the establishment of preganglionic projection patterns. When cervical somites were transplanted to the thoracic region, preganglionic neurons adjacent to the transplanted somites projected aberrantly. In addition, when somites were removed, the pattern of preganglionic axonal projections to their target ganglia was altered. These results indicate that the specificity of sympathetic preganglionic projections is influenced by the somitic mesoderm.
Scientific Habits of Mind

perspective. He emphasizes the pitfalls inherent in using fossil Theropithecus as a suitable model for early hominid ecology given their small brains and rather unusual primate diet. This particular chapter also provides a critical comprehensive overview of allometric techniques. Krentz, in the final chapter in this section, systematically examines the forelimbs and hindlimbs of each major group of Theropithecus and concludes that the locomotor adaptations observed in extant species were most likely present in the earliest members of this genus. The final portion of this book is devoted to a summary of the behavior and ecology of Theropithecus gelada, a species that has shaped the theoretical foundations of primate ecology and behavior. Dunbar's chapter is an excellent overview of the complex, multilevel social organization of T. gelada groups and the strategies males and females use to reproduce. Iwamoto provides a more detailed look at the habitat and ecology of this species in light of demographic patterns. His analysis is very thorough as he covers feeding techniques, digestion rates and patterns, physiology, and energetic requirements of the genus. The final two chapters, by Dunbar and by Lee and Foley, take many of the elements introduced in this section and apply them to the extinct species discussed previously. Dunbar makes predictions on group size and distribution of extinct populations given different habitat and climate conditions. Lee and Foley consider how life-history strategies, energetic requirements, and nutritional intake may have contributed to the extinction of some members of this genus. Each of the chapters in this section would be an excellent assignment for undergraduate or beginning graduate students in primate behavior and ecology. As can be seen from the variety of topics covered in individual chapters, Jablonski's volume on Theropithecus is extremely comprehensive. In addition to its academic accomplishments, it is a beautiful book full of detailed illustrations, photos of fossils, and informative tables. There is something for everyone in this book, although some portions may be more appealing than others to some readers. Both McGrew's and Jablonski's volumes cross disciplinary lines in admirable ways within anthropology. McGrew's book relates primatology, human evolution, and cultural anthropology within a unique framework. Jablonski's edited volume combines data and various perspectives from a wide range of biologists, primatologists, paleontologists, and anatomists in an integrative way, demonstrating how well the different aspects of biological anthropology complement one another.
Decoherence in quantum cosmology

We discuss the manner in which the gravitational field becomes classical in quantum cosmology. This involves two steps. First, one must show that the quantum state of the gravitational field becomes strongly peaked about a set of classical configurations. Second, one must show that the system is in one of a number of states of a relatively permanent nature that have negligible interference with each other. This second step involves decoherence---destruction of the off-diagonal terms in the density matrix, representing interference. To introduce the notion of decoherence, we discuss it in the context of the quantum theory of measurement, following the environment-induced superselection approach of Zurek. We then go on to discuss the application of these ideas to quantum cosmology. We show, in a simple homogeneous isotropic model, that the density matrix of the Universe will decohere if the long-wavelength modes of an inhomogeneous massless scalar field are traced out. These modes effectively act as an environment which continuously ''monitors'' the scale factor. The coherence width is very small except in the neighborhood of a classical bounce. This means that one cannot really say that a classical solution bounces because the notion of classical spacetime does not apply. The coherencemore » width decreases as the scale factor increases, which has implications for the arrow of time. We also show, using decoherence arguments, that the WKB component of the wave function of the Universe which represents expanding universes has negligible interference with the collapsing component. This justifies the usual assumption that they may be treated separately.« less
The KAIT with Developmental Students, Honor Students, and Freshmen.

The KAIT (Kaufman Adolescent and Adult Intelligence Test) is a relatively new test of intelligence. This paper explores its use in a southwestern university with three different student groups. The results are reported and implications noted.
SOME SAR STUDIES ON THE SENSE OF TASTE

Using the Shallenberger-Kier model as a molecular requirement for the sweet taste, adsorption and spectroscopic measurements on sweet and nonsweet analogs are described. Additional exploratory experiments were made in search of a set of parameters which could be used to predict the taste (sweet or nonsweet) of trisubstituted benzenes.
Externally visible fluorochrome marks and allometries of growing sea urchins

Externally visible, growing calcitic structures can be marked using fluorochromes. Such marks are useful for field recapture studies in ecology, evolution, and aquaculture as well as for studies on mechanisms of growth and development. We marked 2-month-old sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis) with the fluorochromes calcein, calcein blue, and tetracycline by batch-marking via immersion. Neither growth nor survival was affected by marking. Marks were externally visible on the skeletal plates, demipyramids, and spines of 100% of the marked sea urchins up to 63 d post-marking. After 342 d, marks were still externally visible on 100% of calcein-marked, 98% of calcein blue-marked, and 22% of tetracycline-marked sea urchins. Marks were brightest on calcein-marked and faintest on tetracycline-marked sea urchins, in correspondence to the fluorochrome dose. Growth marks in the aboral oculogenital ring, followed for 333 d, showed that genital plate growth in the hoop direction was greatest adjacent to the anal suture and that both the oculogenital ring and periproct grew less than isometrically. Internal marks (not externally visible) were subsequently seen on 99% of the demipyramids at 342 d post-marking. Such fluorochrome marks on demipyramids have previously been used to measure aboral and oral-end demipyramid growth to allometrically calibrate diametrical growth rates of field sea urchins. We found that although aboral demipyramid marks were always clear, 13% of marks on the oral end were obscured. However, we show that measuring only aboral end growth is sufficient for allometric calibration. In a separate experiment, multiple marks of the above three fluorochromes plus alizarin complexone, administered by injection to larger (12.9–37.1 mm diameter) sea urchins, persisted internally for at least 2 years. Multi-color, internally and externally visible, persistent marks will enhance experimental designs in laboratory, field, and common garden experiments.
A higher order diffusion model for three-dimensional photon migration and image reconstruction in optical tomography

In this work, we derived three-dimensional simplified spherical harmonics approximated higher order diffusion equations. We also solved the higher order diffusion equations using a finite element method and compared the solutions from the first-order diffusion equation and Monte Carlo simulations. We found that the conducted model is able to improve the first-order diffusion solution in a transport-like homogeneous or heterogeneous medium. Reconstructed images based on the higher order diffusion model are also presented. We conclude that the developed higher order diffusion model is able to accurately describe light propagation in biological tissues and to offer improved image reconstruction.
An Alternative Look at Code Evolution: Using Non-canonical Codes to Evaluate Adaptive and Historic Models for the Origin of the Genetic Code

The canonical code has been shown many times to be highly robust against point mutations; that is, mutations that change a single nucleotide tend to result in similar amino acids more often than expected by chance. There are two major types of models for the origin of the code, which explain how this sophisticated structure evolved. Adaptive models state that the primitive code was specifically selected for error minimization, while historic models hypothesize that the robustness of the code is an artifact or by-product of the mechanism of code evolution. In this paper, we evaluated the levels of robustness in existing non-canonical codes as well as codes that differ in only one codon assignment from the standard code. We found that the level of robustness of many of these codes is comparable or better than that of the standard code. Although these results do not preclude an adaptive origin of the genetic code, they suggest that the code was not selected for minimizing the effects of point mutations.
ANGER ASSESSMENT AND ITS RELATION TO SELF-REPORT OF AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR

The effectiveness of anger assessment in classifying self-report of aggressive behavior was examined using a sample of normal college students. Paper-and-pencil measures of anger (Novaco Anger Inventory and Spielberger's Trait Anger scale) were not effective in accurately classifying subjects high and low in self-report of aggressive behavior. Explanations of this finding were discussed.
Reproductive failure of a human-tolerant species, the American kestrel, is associated with stress and human disturbance

Summary 1. The rapid increase of human activity in wild and developed areas presents novel challenges for wildlife. Some species may use human-dominated landscapes because of favourable resources (e.g. high prey availability along roadsides); however, use of these areas may increase exposure to anthropogenic stressors, such as human disturbance or noise, which can negatively affect reproduction or survival. In this case, human-dominated landscapes may act as an ecological trap. 2. We evaluated whether American kestrel Falco sparverius reproductive failure was associated with human disturbance (traffic conditions and land development) or other common predictors of reproductive outcome, such as habitat and clutch initiation date. Also, we examined relationships among human disturbance, corticosterone (CORT) concentrations and nest abandonment to explore potential mechanisms for stress-induced reproductive failure. 3. Twenty-six (36%) of 73 kestrel nesting attempts failed and 88% of failures occurred during incubation. Kestrels nesting in higher disturbance areas were 99 times more likely to fail than kestrels nesting in lower disturbance areas. Habitat and clutch initiation date did not explain reproductive outcome. 4. Females in higher disturbance areas had higher CORT and were more likely to abandon nests than females in lower disturbance areas. There was no relationship between male CORT and disturbance or abandonment. Females spent more time incubating than males and may have had more exposure to anthropogenic stressors. Specifically, traffic noise may affect a cavity-nesting bird’s perception of the outside environment by masking auditory cues. In response, incubating birds may perceive a greater predation risk, increase vigilance behaviour, decrease parental care, or both. 5. Synthesis and applications. Proximity to large, busy roads and developed areas negatively affected kestrel reproduction by causing increased stress hormones that promoted nest abandonment. These results demonstrate that species presence in a human-dominated landscape does not necessarily indicate a tolerance for anthropogenic stressors. Managers should carefully consider or discourage projects that juxtapose favourable habitat conditions with areas of high human activity to decrease risk of ecological traps. Noise mitigation, while locally effective, may not protect widespread populations from the pervasive threat of traffic noise. Innovative engineering that decreases anthropogenic noise at its source is necessary.
The utility of the revised International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics histologic grading of endometrial adenocarcinoma using a defined nuclear grading system. A Gynecologic Oncology Group study.

Background. The histologic grade of endometrial adenocarcinoma is related to the aggressiveness of the tumor and probability of death from disease. However, the ideal system for assignment of histologic grade remains controversial. In 1988, the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) revised its recommendations for grading typical endometrial adenocarcinoma, such that grade is determined primarily by the architecture of the tumor and secondarily modified in the presence of “notable nuclear atypia”; this phrase, however, has never been defined, and therefore the prognostic validity of this system is unknown. Methods. Seven hundred and fifteen women with clinical Stage I and occult Stage II endometrial adenocarcinomas (excluding serous or clear cell type) entered on a Gynecologic Oncology Group protocol, and those treated by total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oo-phorectomy, and selective pelvic and para-aortic lymph node sampling formed the study population. All cases were centrally reviewed and assigned an architectural grade and a nuclear grade using specific criteria. The FIGO grade was then determined. The various grading methods were examined based on ability to stratify patients into groups with differing rates of disease progression and relative survival at five years. Results. The architectural grade, nuclear grade, and FIGO grade of tumors each were used to separate patients into groups with statistically significant different rates of progression of disease and relative survival. The FIGO modification of architectural grade resulted in the reassignment of 44 patients into a higher grade. The outcome for these 44 was worse than for the remaining patients in the initial grade but was similar to the group into which they were moved. Conclusions. If clearly specified criteria for architectural and nuclear grading are used and “notable nuclearatypia” is defined as grade 3 nuclei, the 1988 FIGO grading system has prognostic utility. The authors recommend this system as the standard method for the grading of typical endometrial adenocarcinoma.
Spin-polarized semiconductor light sources

Spin-polarized light-emitting diodes and lasers are a promising technology for future high-speed optical communications with enhanced bandwidth and security. In such devices, circularly-polarized emission results from radiative recombination of spin-polarized carriers, which are injected from either a ferromagnetic metallic contact or magnetic semiconductor. Here we discuss the epitaxial growth and application of III-Mn-V diluted magnetic semiconductors and their nanostructures as injector layers in spin-polarized, surface-emitting diodes and lasers. A high polarization efficiency of 30% at 4.5 K is demonstrated in spin-LEDs having GaMnAs spin-injector layers and high-temperature operation (T < 180 K) is observed in spin-LEDs having a GaAs spin injector embedded with Mn-doped InAs quantum dot nano-magnets. Spin-polarized vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers having thin GaMnAs spin-injector layers have also been investigated.
Characterization of reservoir-type microcapsules made by the solvent exchange method

The purpose of this reseach was to characterize and optimize the properties of microcapsules produced by the solvent exchange method, a new microencapsulation technique. Reservoir-type microcapsules containing lysozyme as a model protein were produced using a coaxial ultrasonic atomizer under various formulation and instrument settings, and characterized with respect to in vitro release kinetics and stability of the encapsulated protein. The solvent exchange method could encapsulate protein drugs with high efficiency under an optimized condition and was mild enough to preserve the integrity of the encapsulated lysozymes during the process. In vitro release studies showed that the microcapsules could release proteins in a controllable manner. The solvent exchange method is a mild and simple microencapsulation method that could encapsulate lysozyme, maintaining its functional integrity.
Transient infrared absorption spectrum of the ν1 fundamental of trans‐DOCO

Using infrared (IR) difference‐frequency laser spectroscopy and 193 nm photolysis of acrylic acid(OD), the rotation–vibration spectrum of the ν1 O–D stretching fundamental of trans‐DOCO radical has been recorded and assigned. The assignment of the spectrum is based on the +0.9% gas phase‐argon matrix shift of the band origins, on the H/D isotopic shifts of the frequencies, and on the chemical reaction rate with O2. The rotational constants confirm that the spectrum is due to the planar trans isomer. The band center is ν0=2684.102 cm−1. Perturbations are observed in the Ka=1 and 6 levels, and information is obtained about the interacting states.
Manufacturing cell formation in the presence of lot splitting and multiple units of the same machine

We present a realistic cell formation problem in the design of cellular manufacturing systems which includes three important features. First, when multiple units of a machine type are considered due to processing time requirements, the model accounts for assigning the units to different cells if such an assignment contributes to reducing material handling costs. Second, the model accounts for the possibility of performing two or more nonconsecutive operations of a part on the same machine. Finally, the model allows for splitting the lot into two if the total workload required of a part's operation on a machine exceeded its daily unit capacity expressed in manned hours. We refer to this feature as ‘lot splitting’. Consequently, the operation required of each split lot of the part can be performed on a separate unit (machine). The model formulated for the problem falls into the class of generalized quadratic binary programming models. As the problem is shown NP-hard in the strong sense, a higher level heuri...
Falling weight deflectometer fleet: repeatability and reproducibility

ABSTRACT Deflection testing with the Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) is an integral part of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) pavement evaluation and design process. TxDOT owns a fleet of 16 FWD consisting of different design and components. Therefore, repeatability and reproducibility are of major importance for adequate interchangeability of the fleet and was the objective of this study. To achieve the objectives of the study, three pavement sections: two flexible and one rigid were selected and six FWD's of different vintage were selected. The results of the evaluation suggest that the individual FWDs are quite repeatable. The current Strategic Highway Research Program calibration procedure seems to improve the repeatability even further. However, the reproducibility of the fleet needs improvement for effective interchangeability of the fleet.
Student Expectations of Course and Instructor

A precourse questionnaire was administered to introductory psychology students to determine expectations of themselves in the course and the instructor of the course. A postcourse questionnaire was...
Power and legitimacy influence conformity

Abstract Although prior research indicates that power and hierarchy illegitimacy independently decrease conformity to social norms, we demonstrate that the two interact. In five studies, we find that legitimate power decreases conformity, whereas illegitimate power increases conformity. We conducted Study 1 in a business organization and found that power was negatively related to employees' conformity with organizational values when the power hierarchy was seen as legitimate, but positively related to conformity when the hierarchy was seen as illegitimate. In Study 2, we manipulated power and legitimacy via a recall task and found the same pattern of effects. Study 3 replicates this finding by manipulating role-based power and legitimacy and examining conformity to norms ostensibly established by others in the context of the study. In Study 4, we find that these effects are driven by increases in conformity among those who are in a state of legitimate powerlessness or illegitimate power. Finally, Study 5 demonstrates that legitimacy moderates the experience of power in part because of its effect on hierarchy stability. Our studies suggest that attributes of a power hierarchy, such as its legitimacy, can be as important in determining behavior as one's hierarchical position.
CONTINUOUS WAVE OPERATION OF INAS/INASXSB1-X MIDINFRARED LASERS

Effective band gaps of type‐II superlattices (SLs) can cover a wide infrared wavelength range, even beyond the narrowest band gap of any natural antimonide semiconductor alloys. This letter reports the first InAs/InAsxSb1−x type‐II SL lasers with cw, optically pumped operation up to 95 K. The stimulated emission results from spatially indirect transitions of relatively extended electron states in the InAs/InAsxSb1−x SL conduction band to the hole states that are localized in the InAsx Sb1−x layers. The lasing wavelength is around 3.3–3.4 μm. Equivalent threshold current densities are estimated to be 3.3 and 56 A/cm2 at sample temperatures of 5 and 95 K, respectively. The characteristic temperature (T0) is approximately 32 K. These results demonstrate that the InAs/InAsxSb1−x type‐II SL clad by AlAs0.16Sb0.84 ordered‐alloy layers is a promising material system for midwave infrared semiconductor lasers.
Research or practice: the debate goes on

If research is superior to practice the difference does not appear to be in the process that is used. Inquiry and problem-solving are, in fact, based on the same process, decision-making. Both involved the use of an analysis-synthesis-evaluation sequence, both may involve deduction, but they also have the same inductive flaws, and both produce results that are of great benefit to mankind. Thus, if there is a difference, it must have something to do with the skills the individual brings to the process. Competent decision makers analyze and define the situation that exists, distinguish problems from symptoms and identify the problems that should be considered. They think creatively as they generate options using brainstorming, synectics, and lateral thinking. They use logic to test the ideas involved in each step of the process, make assumptions, test inferences, interpret statements, and evaluate arguments. They demand evidence for claims that are made and think critically as they weigh, reconcile, and assess arguments using dialogue, discussion, and debate. And they apply appropriate values and ethics before they make decisions. These are the skills that should be taught in schools for if there is any superiority, it is not intrinsic to the process, it is within the decision maker.
Health Vlogs as Social Support for Chronic Illness Management

Studies have shown positive impact of video blogs (vlogs) on patient education. However, we know little on how patient-initiated vlogs shape the relationships among vloggers and viewers. We qualitatively analyzed 72 vlogs on YouTube by users diagnosed with HIV, diabetes, or cancer and 1,274 comments posted to the vlogs to understand viewers’ perspectives on the vlogs. We found that the unique video medium allowed intense and enriched personal and contextual disclosure to the viewers, leading to strong community-building activities and social support among vloggers and commenters, both informationally and emotionally. Furthermore, the unique communication structure of the vlogs allowed ad hoc small groups to form, which showed different group behavior than typical text-based social media, such as online communities. We provide implications to the Health Care Industry (HCI) community on how future technologies for health vlogs could be designed to further support chronic illness management.
NITROGEN BALANCE IN RADIATION CHIMERAS.

SummaryPositive nitrogen balance was observed in mice given 900 r total-body X-irradiation and then treated by injection of living bone marrow cells. The average level was about twice that of normal controls for 90 days after irradiation and bone marrow treatment. Mice given isologous cells showed a normal rate of gain in body weight. However, mice given homologous cells failed to gain weight despite the same degree of positive nitrogen balance.We gratefully acknowledge the help of Dr. D. Goss-lee, Mathematics Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, in analysis of the data.
Traffic characterization algorithms for VBR video in multimedia networks

A network that offers deterministic, i.e., worst case, quality-of-service guarantees to variable-bit-rate (VBR) video must provide a resource reservation mechanism that allocates bandwidth, buffer space, and other resources for each video stream. Such a resource reservation scheme must be carefully designed, otherwise network resources are wasted. A key component for the design of a resource reservation scheme is the traffic characterization method that specifies the traffic arrivals on a video stream. The traffic characterization should accurately describe the actual arrivals, so that a large number of streams can be supported; but it must also map directly into efficient traffic-policing mechanisms that monitor arrivals on each stream. In this study, we present a fast and accurate traffic characterization method for stored VBR video in networks with a deterministic service. We use this approximation to obtain a traffic characterization that can be efficiently policed by a small number of leaky buckets. We present a case study where we apply our characterization method to networks that employ a dynamic resource reservation scheme with renegotiation. We use traces from a set of 25–30-min MPEG sequences to evaluate our method against other characterization schemes from the literature.
Peripheral modification of chemosensory information in the spiny lobster

Abstract 1. 1. The effect of antennular flicking in the spiny lobster is analyzed physiologically. 2. 2. Flicking responses to amino acid stimulation are quantified. 3. 3. Flicking elicits novel activity in some antennular chemoreceptors : in others it lacks any apparent effect. 4. 4. Possible mechanisms are discussed.
Scientific experimentation via the matching game

In traditional computer science curricula, students view program implementation as the end product and not the means to obtaining some further result. All too often students complete an implementation at the last minute, perform a minimal amount of testing and call the assignment done! This paper discusses an approach we have taken in our courses to have students use and develop programs as part of a scientific inquiry. In addition to causing students to perform more thorough testing, our approach also improves empirical and critical thinking skills.
Best approximation using a peak norm

Abstract A family of norms ∥ g ∥ ( α ) , 0 α L 1 norms is defined. Best approximation of a continuous function from an n -dimensional subspace is characterized and (in case of a T -subspace) a uniqueness theorem is proven. The family, as well as the best approximation, is continuous in α. In particular, when α tends to zero or one, we get the uniform or the L 1 case, respectively.
High resolution synchrotron excited soft X-ray core level spectroscopy at NSLS

Abstract Examples of soft X-ray core level excitations studies are presented which span a range from excitons of the diamond C 1s level and intermediate products of the silicon fluorine etching reaction to the interface structure of CaF 2 grown epitaxially on silicon (111) surfaces.
Checkpoint kinase 2 (Chk2) inhibits the activity of the Cdc45/MCM2-7/GINS (CMG) replicative helicase complex

The replication of eukaryote chromosomes slows down when DNA is damaged and the proteins that work at the fork (the replisome) are known targets for the signaling pathways that mediate such responses critical for accurate genomic inheritance. However, the molecular mechanisms and details of how this response is mediated are poorly understood. In this report we show that the activity of replisome helicase, the Cdc45/MCM2-7/GINS (CMG) complex, can be inhibited by protein phosphorylation. Recombinant Drosophila melanogaster CMG can be stimulated by treatment with phosphatase whereas Chk2 but not Chk1 interferes with the helicase activity in vitro. The targets for Chk2 phosphorylation have been identified and reside in MCM subunits 3 and 4 and in the GINS protein Psf2. Interference requires a combination of modifications and we suggest that the formation of negative charges might create a surface on the helicase to allosterically affect its function. The treatment of developing fly embryos with ionizing radiation leads to hyperphosphorylation of Psf2 subunit in the active helicase complex. Taken together these data suggest that the direct modification of the CMG helicase by Chk2 is an important nexus for response to DNA damage.
Algorithm 931: An algorithm and software for computing multiplicity structures at zeros of nonlinear systems

A Matlab implementation, multiplicity, of a numerical algorithm for computing the multiplicity structure of a nonlinear system at an isolated zero is presented. The software incorporates a newly developed equation-by-equation strategy that significantly improves the efficiency of the closedness subspace algorithm and substantially reduces the storage requirement. The equation-by-equation strategy is actually based on a variable-by-variable closedness subspace approach. As a result, the algorithm and software can handle much larger nonlinear systems and higher multiplicities than their predecessors, as shown in computational experiments on the included test suite of benchmark problems.
Selective DNA-Mediated Assembly of Gold Nanoparticles on Electroded Substrates

Motivated by the technological possibilities of electronics and sensors based on gold nanoparticles (Au NPs), we investigate the selective assembly of such NPs on electrodes via DNA hybridization. Protocols are demonstrated for maximizing selectivity and coverage using 15mers as the active binding agents. Detailed studies of the dependences on time, ionic strength, and temperature are used to understand the underlying mechanisms and their limits. Under optimized conditions, coverage of Au NPs on Au electrodes patterned on silicon dioxide (SiO2) substrates was found to be ∼25−35%. In all cases, Au NPs functionalized with non-complementary DNA show no attachment and essentially no nonspecific adsorption is observed by any Au NPs on the SiO2 surfaces of the patterned substrates. DNA-guided assembly of multilayers of NPs was also demonstrated and, as expected, found to further increase the coverage, with three deposition cycles resulting in a surface coverage of approximately 60%.
Wave Scattering By Periodic Surface At Low Grazing Angles: Two Grazing Mode - Abstract

We examine wave scattering by a perfectly conducting periodic surface in the presence of two diffraction modes propagating at low grazing angles. This scenario includes a backscatter case that has ...
An optimal method for stochastic composite optimization

This paper considers an important class of convex programming (CP) problems, namely, the stochastic composite optimization (SCO), whose objective function is given by the summation of general nonsmooth and smooth stochastic components. Since SCO covers non-smooth, smooth and stochastic CP as certain special cases, a valid lower bound on the rate of convergence for solving these problems is known from the classic complexity theory of convex programming. Note however that the optimization algorithms that can achieve this lower bound had never been developed. In this paper, we show that the simple mirror-descent stochastic approximation method exhibits the best-known rate of convergence for solving these problems. Our major contribution is to introduce the accelerated stochastic approximation (AC-SA) algorithm based on Nesterov’s optimal method for smooth CP (Nesterov in Doklady AN SSSR 269:543–547, 1983; Nesterov in Math Program 103:127–152, 2005), and show that the AC-SA algorithm can achieve the aforementioned lower bound on the rate of convergence for SCO. To the best of our knowledge, it is also the first universally optimal algorithm in the literature for solving non-smooth, smooth and stochastic CP problems. We illustrate the significant advantages of the AC-SA algorithm over existing methods in the context of solving a special but broad class of stochastic programming problems.
Analysis of an array of four microstrip patch resonators printed on an anisotropic substrate

The spectral-domain approach is applied to the analysis of a four microstrip patch resonator array that is printed on anisotropic substrate. Basis functions are carefully chosen to accurately represent the current distribution on each patch, corresponding to every symmetry of the structure. Ample numerical results are presented which show the effects of geometrical and anisotropic medium parameters on dominant resonant frequencies of the microstrip patch array. >
Statistical methods for estimating ratios and products in ecological studies

There are many examples in the ecological literature in which population parameters are estimated using the ratio or product of two random variables. The statistical aspects of such problems have not been adequately addressed in the applied literature. This paper deals with point estimation, confidence intervals, tests of hypotheses, and determination of sample sizes for the product θ = μ x · μ y and the ratio ρ = μ x /μ y of two means with independent samples. More specifically, if $\bar X$ and $\bar Y$ denote the two sample means, the authors discuss the bias and standard errors associated with $\bar X$$\bar Y$ and $\bar X$/$\bar Y$ and use the large sample behavior of P and R to obtain confidence intervals for θ and ρ respectively. Standard errors and confidence intervals are also found using the jackknife and the bootstrap. In addition, these techniques produce alternative estimators for the ratio. Finally, optimal sample sizes are derived for achieving desired levels of precision for either P or R . The authors provide a cost for each type of observation and determine the total sample size and the allocation of the total sample size to either minimize variance for a fixed cost or to minimize cost for a fixed variance. Two examples arising from the estimation of larval densities and hatching densities of gypsy moths are considered in detail.
Broad and adaptable RNA structure recognition by the human interferon-induced tetratricopeptide repeat protein IFIT5

Interferon (IFN) responses play key roles in cellular defense against pathogens. Highly expressed IFN-induced proteins with tetratricopeptide repeats (IFITs) are proposed to function as RNA binding proteins, but the RNA binding and discrimination specificities of IFIT proteins remain unclear. Here we show that human IFIT5 has comparable affinity for RNAs with diverse phosphate-containing 5′-ends, excluding the higher eukaryotic mRNA cap. Systematic mutagenesis revealed that sequence substitutions in IFIT5 can alternatively expand or introduce bias in protein binding to RNAs with 5′ monophosphate, triphosphate, cap0 (triphosphate-bridged N7-methylguanosine), or cap1 (cap0 with RNA 2′- O -methylation). We defined the breadth of cellular ligands for IFIT5 by using a thermostable group II intron reverse transcriptase for RNA sequencing. We show that IFIT5 binds precursor and processed tRNAs, as well as other RNA polymerase III transcripts. Our findings establish the RNA recognition specificity of the human innate immune response protein IFIT5.
Gelatinization and Solubility Properties of Commercial Oat Starch

Gelatinization and solubility characteristics of starch contribute to unique functionality in foods. Corn and oat starch viscoamylographs (35g db) showed peak viscosities of 400 and 390B.U., respectively. Oat starch had a more rapid (89.7 vs 85.6°C) and higher set back (790 vs. 740B.U.) than corn. Data on soluble components of cooled (85°C) starch pastes, as collected and analyzed by high-performance size exclusion chromatography (HPSEC), suggest that amylopectin plays a significant (P<0.05) role in oat paste set back; for corn starch, amylose is the dominant factor. Solubilities and apparent molecular weights (MW) of oat starch heated (65-120°C) under shear and subsequent sonication (0-40s) in water or 90% methyl sulfoxide (DMSO) were also determined by HPSEC. An intermediate MW fraction was eluted on the HPSEC chromatograms only when oat starch was heated in water (100-120°C/30min) or DMSO and sonicated, suggesting that this fraction may not be inherent in the native granule. in water, polymer solubility and peak MW increased with temperature (65-120°C), whereas in DMSO, solubility decreased with heating (65-100°C), while peak MW remained basically constant. Aqueous (aq) leaching at 75°C solubilized more corn amylose than amylopectin, but amylopectin and amylose co-leached from oat starch granules. Aq leaching, at 20°C above their DSC peak ends (85 and 95°C for oat and corn, resepctively), showed more amylopectin leached from oat starch granules whereas more amylose was leached from corn starch granules.
The effect of wire drawing speed on the dislocation cell size and yield strength in pure aluminum

Abstract Pure aluminum wires of 9.25 mm diameter have been drawn at room temperature up to a true wire drawing strain of 2.09 at four different speeds (139.7, 84.7, 42.3 and 16.9 mm s −1 ). The yield strengths of these drawn wires indicate alternate hardening and softening during wire drawing and are insensitive to wire drawing speeds. The cell sizes are also not affected by the wire drawing speeds even though they decrease with increase in true wire drawing strain.
Biotinylation of Histones by Human Serum Biotinidase: Assessment of Biotinyl-Transferase Activity in Sera from Normal Individuals and Children with Biotinidase Deficiency

Serum biotinidase has biotinyl-transferase activity in addition to biocytin hydrolase activity. A sensitive assay for biotinyl-transferase activity was developed based on the transfer of biotin from biocytin to histones. Biotinidase biotinyl-transferase occurs at physiological and alkaline pHs, whereas hydrolysis of biocytin occurs optimally at pH 4.5 to 6.0. Measurement of hydrolysis requires micromolar concentrations of biocytin, whereas biotinylation of histones can be detected readily at 1.5 nM biocytin. Because polylysine is readily biotinylated by biotinidase in the presence of biocytin, whereas polyarginine is not, the enzyme likely transfers biotin to the epsilon-amino group of lysyl residues. To determine if patients who are deficient in biocytin hydrolase activity are also deficient in biotinyl-transferase activity, serum from 103 children (25 identified by exhibiting clinical symptoms and 78 detected by newborn screening) with profound biotinidase deficiency (less than 10% of mean normal biotinyl-p-aminobenzoate hydrolyzing activity) were assessed for biotinyl-transferase activity and for the presence of cross-reacting material (CRM) to antibodies prepared against purified serum biotinidase. Sera from all symptomatic patients, both CRM-negative and CRM-positive, had no biotinyl-transferase activity. Sera that was CRM-negative from children ascertained by newborn screening also had no biotinyl-transferase activity, whereas sera from 67% of the CRM-positive children identified by newborn screening had varying degrees of biotinyl-transferase activity. These results indicate that there is a large group of enzyme-deficient children detected by newborn screening who are different biochemically from those who are symptomatic. The clinical relevance of having some degree of biotinyl-transferase activity for individuals with biotinidase deficiency remains to be determined. In addition, it is important to determine if biotinyl-transferase activity, especially biotinylation of histones, is a physiological function of biotinidase.