cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor‐induced activation of protein kinase‐C in myeloid cells

Granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) regulates survival, proliferation, differentiation, and activation of myeloid cells. It binds to a high affinity receptor (G-CSF-R) expressed on myeloid cells, for which the signal transduction mechanisms other than protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) activation have not been completely identified. We explored the potential involvement of protein kinase-C (PKC) in G-CSF-R signal transduction. In this report, we provide direct evidence of PKC activation by G-CSF-R. G-CSF treatment of peripheral blood neutrophils, granulocytic cell lines (HL-60, NFS-60, KG-1), and monocytic cell lines (WEHI-3B,U-937) resulted in PKC activation. Chelerythrine chloride and HA-100, an isoquinolinesulfonamide derivative, the specific inhibitors of PKC, 1,2-Bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N′,N′-tetra-acetic acid (BAPTA), a chelator of intracellular calcium, and 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoic acid 8-(diethylamino)-octyl ester (TMB-8), an inhibitor of intracellular calcium release, blocked G-CSF-induced PKC activation in HL-60 cells, and reduced CD11b upregulation in neutrophils, but did not affect ligand-binding or down-modulation of G-CSF-R. Methyl 2,5-dihydroxycinnamate (MDHC), a potent inhibitor of protein tyrosine kinases (PTK), also inhibited PKC activation in response to G-CSF treatment, suggesting that PKC activation may occur downstream of PTK activation. Our results demonstrate the involvement of PKC in G-CSF-R signal transduction, and suggest a common signaling pathway in myeloid cells of granulocytic and monocytic lineages. J. Cell. Biochem. 66:286–296, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Ultraviolet and visible imaging and spectrographic imaging instrument.

The Ultraviolet and Visible Imaging and Spectrographic Imaging experiment consists of five spectrographic imagers and four imagers. These nine sensors provide spectrographic and imaging capabilities from 110 to 900 nm. The spectrographic imagers share an off-axis design in which selectable slits alternate fields of view (1.00° × 0.10° or 1.00° × 0.05°) and spectral resolutions between 0.5 and 4 nm. Image planes of the spectrographic imager have a programmable spectral dimension with 68, 136, or 272 pixels across each individual spectral band, and a programmable spatial dimension with 5, 10, 20, or 40 pixels across the 1° slit length. A scan mirror sweeps the slit through a second spatial dimension to generate a 1° × 1° spectrographic image once every 5, 10, or 20 s, depending on the scan rate. The four imagers provide narrow-field (1.28° × 1.59°) and wide-field (10.5° × 13.1°) viewing. Each imager has a six-position filter wheel that selects various spectral regimes and neutral densities. The nine sensors utilize intensified CCD detectors that have an intrascene dynamic range of ~ 103 and an interscene dynamic range of ~ 105; neutral-density filters provide an additional dynamic range of ~ 102–3. The detector uses an automatic gain control that permits the sensors to adjust to scenes of varying intensity. The sensors have common boresights and can operate separately, simultaneously, or synchronously. To be launched aboard the Midcourse Space Experiment spacecraft in the mid-1990’s, the ultraviolet and visible imaging and spectrographic imaging instrument will investigate a multitude of celestial, atmospheric, and point sources during its planned 4-yr life.
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF POTATO PEEL AS A SOURCE OF DIETARY FIBER IN BREAD

Peelings removed from potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) by four methods, abrasion, steam, caustic, and hand peeling were studied in terms of their physical, chemical and baking characteristics as a source of dietary fiber in bread. Potato peel apparently is superior to a wheat bran in the contents of certain minerals, in total dietary fiber, in water-holding capacity, in its lower quantity of starchy components, and in its lack of phytate. These dietary advantages were not lost in baking quality trials.
Mobile optimized digital identity (MODI): a framework for easier digital certificate use

Traditional authentication methods such as passwords no longer meet all the security requirements of today's enterprise. Digital certificates provide a much more secure, resilient alternative solution. However, digital certificates are cumbersome to use for an end-user and are complex to implement for a resource provider. In this paper, we describe the Mobile Optimized Digital Identity (MODI) framework, which aims to solve the logistical issues of using certificates as an authentication method for both the end-user and the resource provider. The MODI framework consists of three tightly integrated components that work in concert: a mobile device application (MDA), an authentication toolkit, and a trusted third-party the security broker (SB). With a dedicated MODI MDA, certificate deployment, maintenance, and use are greatly simplified for the end-user. The MODI authentication toolkit enables resource providers to easily integrate with the framework, thus shielding developers from needing any knowledge of digital certificates and their implementation. Using mobile devices, the end-user authentication tool allows the MODI solution to expand its scope beyond conventional network access to novel physical access scenarios with the aid of proximity scanning technologies such as near-field communication (NFC).
Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis: Does the Future Belong to Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) after menopause prevents the development of osteoporosis and reduces the risk of fracture. Other potential benefits are cardioprotection--probably related to the effects of estrogen on lipid profile and fibrinogen levels--and a delay in the onset of Alzheimer's disease and perhaps amelioration of the disease. ERT, however, increases the risk of endometriosis and endometrial cancer unless given with a progestin for at least 10 days per menstrual cycle. It also results in a small but real increase in breast cancer. Alendronate, a bisphosphonate, is the first serious competitor of conjugated equine estrogen for the treatment of osteoporosis. Nearing FDA approval are so-called designer estrogens (e.g., raloxifene), which may selectively prevent osteoporosis with little or no effects on endometrial and breast tissue.
Topical Corticosteroid Therapy for Corneal Toxicity from Systemically Administered Cytarabine

Eleven patients with leukemia refractory to conventional therapy were treated with high doses of cytarabine (3 g/m 2 intravenously every 12 hours for six days) followed by daunorubicin (30 mg/m 2 /day intravenously for three days). Each patient received, in a double-masked, randomized manner, either 1% prednisolone phosphate or placebo eyedrops in each eye 12 hours before and along with the cytarabine so that we could determine whether a topical corticosteroid prevents corneal toxicity from systemic cytarabine. Ten of the 11 patients had a significant reduction in the intensity and duration of the symptoms and signs of corneal toxicity in the corticosteroid-treated eye (P Patients receiving high doses of intravenously administered cytarabine should receive topical corticosteroid prophylaxis to reduce the corneal toxicity associated with this treatment.
Unsteady Supersonic Flows over a Backward-Facing Step with Applied Magnetic Field

DOI: 10.2514/1.42190Time-dependentbehaviorofshock/boundary-layerinteractionhasbeeninvestigatednumericallyforﬂowsoverabackward-facingstep.Usingamultiblock-gridstrategy,theglobaldomainofcomputationhasbeendecomposedintotwo subdomains representing upstream and downstream regions from the step location. First, Navier–Stokesanalysishasbeenperformedtoinvestigatetheunsteadyshock/boundary-layerinteraction.Subsequently,magneto-ﬂuid-dynamicscomputationshavebeenperformedtoexploretheeffectsofappliedmagneticﬁeldovertheunsteadynature of the problem and its use for local ﬂow control. A time-explicit modiﬁed Runge–Kutta scheme with total-variation-diminishing limiters under a multiblock-grid approach has been implemented. The governing equationsare composed of the Navier–Stokes equation modiﬁed to include the effect of magnetic ﬁeld under low-magnetic-Reynolds-number approximation. The effects of an applied magnetic ﬁeld and a time-dependent magnetic ﬁeld onthe ﬂowﬁeld have been investigated.It has been shown thatthe application of magnetic ﬁeldincreases the unsteadynature of the problem.
Exact triple integrals of beam functions

Definite triple integrals encountered in applying the Galerkin method to the problem of heat and mass transfer across rectangular enclosures are discussed. Rather than evaluating them numerically, the technique described by Reid and Harris (1958) was extended to obtain the exact solution of the integrals. In the process, four linear simultaneous equations with triple integrals as unknowns were obtained. These equations were then solved exactly to obtain the closed form solution. Since closed form representations of this type have been shown to be useful in solving nonlinear hydrodynamic problems by series expansion, the integrals are presented here in general form.
Reflections on a Nietzschean turn in rhetorical theory: Rhetoric without epistemology?

L'A. examine dans quelle mesure l'esthetique nietzscheenne de la rhetorique opere un revirement total, par sa notion de simulacre, dans l'histoire de la rhetorique depuis Platon, et dans la comprehension de ses rapports avec la theorie de la connaissance
Comparative Placental Steroid Synthesis. I. Conversion of (7-3H)-Dehydroepiandrosterone to (3H)-Androst- 4-ene-3,17-dione

Placental tissues from 9 mammalian species were studied for their capacity to metabolize dehydroepiandrosterone in vitro. Placental slices from cats, dogs, cows, pigs, rats and humans converted (7-3H) -dehydroepiandrosterone to (3H)-androst-4-ene-3,17-dione. Armadillo and, on the basis of tentative identification, guinea pig and human placentas reduced dehydroepiandrosterone to androst-5-ene-3β,17β- diol. Incubation with rabbit placentas did not yield either androst-4-ene-3,17-dione or androst- 5-ene-3β,17β-diol. These results establish a capacity for steroid (i.e., dehydroepiandrosterone) metabolism in placentas of mammalian species other than of man and rat. (Endocrinology 79: 524, 1966)
Phylogenetic diversity and evolutionary relatedness of alkenone-producing haptophyte algae in lakes: Implications for continental paleotemperature reconstructions

Alkenones have been found in an increasing number of lakes around the world, making them a promising new tool for continental paleoclimate reconstruction. However, individual lakes may harbor different species of haptophyte algae with different sensitivities to temperature variations, thus presenting a significant challenge to the use of lacustrine alkenones for paleotemperature reconstructions. To explore the extent of lacustrine haptophyte diversity, we conducted the first comprehensive phylogenetic and geochemical survey of lacustrine alkenone producers. We sampled 15 alkenone-containing lake surface sediments from a variety of geographic locales and inferred identities of environmental sequences using 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene-based phylogenies. For two lakes, BrayaSo in southwest Greenland and Tso Ur on the Tibetan Plateau, we also analyzed both surface and downcore sediments to characterize haptophyte populations through time. In parallel with phylogenetic analyses, we determined the alkenone distributions (including C37/C38 ratios, and the presence/absence of C38 methyl ketones and C40 compounds) in all the samples. The resulting alkenone profiles from this study do not all align with traditional “marine” versus “coastal/lacustrine” alkenone profiles. Additionally, our genetic data indicate the presence of multiple haptophyte species from a single lake sediment sample; these distinct haptophyte populations could not be discerned from the alkenone profiles alone. These results show that alkenone profiles are not a reliable way to assess the haptophyte algae in lakes and that DNA fingerprinting is a preferred approach for species identification. Although closely related haptophyte species or subspecies may not warrant different temperature calibrations, our results emphasize the importance of genetic data for inferring haptophyte identities and eventually selecting alkenone–temperature calibrations for paleoclimate reconstructions.
Generation of coherent ultraviolet radiation in the 330 nm region by multiphoton excitation of sodium vapor

We report the observation of coherent uv emission at 330.2±0.5 nm when sodium vapor in a heatpipe is irradiated with a pulsed visible dye laser with output wavelength in the 570–595 nm region. It is found that intense uv emission can be produced from Na atoms as well as from Na2 molecules. The excitation functions and their dependence on vapor density and laser power density are presented and the mechanisms for producing the emission are discussed.
OOXKSearch: A Search Engine for Answering XML Keyword and Loosely Structured Queries Using OO Techniques

OOXKSearch is a semantic search engine that answers XML keyword-based queries as well as loosely structured queries using Object Oriented techniques. There has been extensive research in XML keyword-based and loosely structured querying. Some frameworks work well for certain types of XML data models while fail in others. The reason is that the proposed techniques are based solely on establishing relationships between individual elements while overlooking the context of these elements. The context of a data element is determined by its parent, because it specifies one of the characteristics of the parent. Since data elements are nothing but characteristics of their parents, we observe that we could treat each parent-children set of elements as one unified entity. We then find semantic relationships between the different unified entities. If two distinct unified entities are semantically related, their data elements are also semantically related. The search performance and quality of OOXKSearch were evaluated experimentally and compared with three recent proposed systems. The results showed marked improvement.
Transition to a legacy- and reuse-based software life cycle

Augmenting domain engineering with legacy software reengineering can help an organization move into the software reuse mode. We present a generalized model of the software life-cycle that explicitly recognizes the critical contribution of legacy software to the attainment of software production from reusable software components. The model defines information products of the software life-cycle, denoted as states, leaving the choice of processes for moving between states open to various methodologies. Then we describe alternative methodologies for transitioning from current practices to the new software life-cycle. This includes evaluation criteria for enabling an informed decision concerning the selection of a transition methodology. Finally, the key to making the alternative transition methodologies feasible is the supporting automated environments. Our experience at integrating automated environments helps us to illustrate the transitions to, and operation within, the proposed software life-cycle. >
Neurotrophins as synaptic modulators

The role of neurotrophins as regulatory factors that mediate the differentiation and survival of neurons has been well described. More recent evidence indicates that neurotrophins may also act as synaptic modulators. Here, I review the evidence that synaptic activity regulates the synthesis, secretion and action of neurotrophins, which can in turn induce immediate changes in synaptic efficacy and morphology. By this account, neurotrophins may participate in activity-dependent synaptic plasticity, linking synaptic activity with long-term functional and structural modification of synaptic connections.
Analysis of magnesiumlike spectra from Cu XVIII to Mo XXXI

The magnesiumlike spectra of Cu to Mo have been observed with laser- and tokamak-generated plasmas in the range of 100–300 A. We give wavelengths accurate to ±0.005 A and classifications of transitions among the 3s2, 3p2, 3d2, 3s3p, 3s3d, and 3p3d configurations. Comparisons with Dirac–Fock calculations of the wavelengths are presented.
Detection of inherited mutations for breast and ovarian cancer using genomic capture and massively parallel sequencing

Inherited loss-of-function mutations in the tumor suppressor genes BRCA1, BRCA2, and multiple other genes predispose to high risks of breast and/or ovarian cancer. Cancer-associated inherited mutations in these genes are collectively quite common, but individually rare or even private. Genetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations has become an integral part of clinical practice, but testing is generally limited to these two genes and to women with severe family histories of breast or ovarian cancer. To determine whether massively parallel, “next-generation” sequencing would enable accurate, thorough, and cost-effective identification of inherited mutations for breast and ovarian cancer, we developed a genomic assay to capture, sequence, and detect all mutations in 21 genes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, with inherited mutations that predispose to breast or ovarian cancer. Constitutional genomic DNA from subjects with known inherited mutations, ranging in size from 1 to >100,000 bp, was hybridized to custom oligonucleotides and then sequenced using a genome analyzer. Analysis was carried out blind to the mutation in each sample. Average coverage was >1200 reads per base pair. After filtering sequences for quality and number of reads, all single-nucleotide substitutions, small insertion and deletion mutations, and large genomic duplications and deletions were detected. There were zero false-positive calls of nonsense mutations, frameshift mutations, or genomic rearrangements for any gene in any of the test samples. This approach enables widespread genetic testing and personalized risk assessment for breast and ovarian cancer.
Widely tunable VCSEL using MEMS technology

We review basic principle and recent advances in wavelength engineering of VCSEL and discuss how the VCSEL structure has been used to effectively control the laser emission. We will discuss the design, fabrication, performance and applications of wavelength tunable VCSELs using micro-electro-mechanical structures (MEMS).
Enzymatic Production of L-Alanyl-L-glutamine by Recombinant E. coli Expressing α-Amino Acid Ester Acyltransferase from Sphingobacterium siyangensis

An enzymatic production method for synthesizing L-alanyl-L-glutamine (Ala-Gln) from L-alanine methyl ester hydrochloride (AlaOMe) and L-glutamine (Gln) was developed in this study. The cultivation conditions for an Escherichia coli strain overexpressing α-amino acid ester acyltransferase from Sphingobacterium siyangensis AJ 2458 (SAET) and reaction conditions for Ala-Gln production were optimized. A high cell density culture broth prepared by fed-batch cultivation showed 440 units/mL of Ala-Gln-producing activity. In addition, an Ala-Gln-producing reaction using intact E. coli cells overexpressing SAET under optimum conditions was conducted. A total Ala-Gln yield of 69.7 g/L was produced in 40 min. The molar yield was 67% against both AlaOMe and Gln.
Spontaneous coronary artery dissection in a young man with inferior wall myocardial infarction

Fig. 2. Proximal stenosis of left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) (left upperpaneD assessed by new system for quantitative analysis of three-dimensional intracoronary ultrasound images.~, 4 Cross-sectional ultrasound images were reconstructed in two perpendicular longitudinal sections (I and II, right upper panels) and computerized contour detection was performed providing a three-dimensional view (left lowerpaneD and dimensions of lumen, plaque, and total vessel, calculated from area measurements. Mean diameter measurements (ram) of 200 consecutive ultrasound frames (right lowerpaneD are displayed, with plaque shown as white area between total vessel and lumen diameter. Note reduction of total vessel diameter from distal reference (mid-LAD) to target stenosis. Arrowheads in three-dimensional view and angiogram indicate site of stenosis, which is also displayed in cross-sectional ultrasound view (mid-left upper panel). LM, Left main coronary artery; PROX, proximal.
Vertebral artery loop formation causing severe cervical nerve root compression

A 35-year-old woman presented with 10 years of stabbing pain in her neck and upper back above her right scapula, sometimes radiating into both arms. Examination results were normal. Somatosensory evoked potentials showed significantly prolonged latency of the right …
CUSTOM, IDENTITY, AND THE JURY IN INDIA, 1800–1832

This article analyses the reception and understanding of the Indian village council (panchayat) among East India Company officials, British politicians, and Indian intellectuals during the first third of the nineteenth century. One of the several ways in which the panchayat was imagined was as an institution analogous to the English jury. As such, the panchayat took on significant meaning, especially for those influenced by the Scottish Orientalist tradition and who were serving in India. The issue became especially salient during the 1820s and 1830s as the jury system was debated and reformed in England. In this context, there was a transnational interplay of both ideas and policies that shaped both Company rule in India as well as the first generation of Indian nationalists.
A contract based system for large data visualization

VisIt is a richly featured visualization tool that is used to visualize some of the largest simulations ever run. The scale of these simulations requires that optimizations are incorporated into every operation VisIt performs. But the set of applicable optimizations that VisIt can perform is dependent on the types of operations being done. Complicating the issue, VisIt has a plugin capability that allows new, unforeseen components to be added, making it even harder to determine which optimizations can be applied. We introduce the concept of a contract to the standard data flow network design. This contract enables each component of the data flow network to modify the set of optimizations used. In addition, the contract allows for new components to be accommodated gracefully within VisIt's data flow network system.
Salphasic distribution of clock signals for synchronous systems

The design of a synchronous system having a global clock must account for propagation-delay-induced phase shifts experienced by the clock signal (clock skew) in its distribution network. As clock speeds and system diameters increase, this requirement becomes increasingly constraining on system designs. The paper describes a method that exploits properties of standing waves to reduce substantially clock skews due to unequal path lengths, for distribution network diameters up to several meters. The basic principles are developed for a loaded transmission line, and then applied to an arbitrary branching tree of such lines to implement a clock distribution network. The extension of this method to two- and three-dimensional distribution media is also presented, suggesting the feasibility of implementing printed circuit board clock planes exhibiting negligible phase shift over their extents. >
Performance of Xpert MTB/RIF RUO Assay and IS6110 Real-Time PCR for Mycobacterium tuberculosis Detection in Clinical Samples

The Cepheid Xpert MTB/RIF research-use-only (RUO) assay and a laboratory-developed test (LDT) targeting IS6110 were evaluated and compared to mycobacterial culture as the gold standard. The performance characteristics of both molecular assays were determined by using 112 specimens from 90 patients, including 89 pulmonary specimens and 23 extrapulmonary specimens. Of the specimens tested, 37 (33%) were culture positive for the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex; 29 were pulmonary, and 8 were extrapulmonary. Of these culture-positive specimens, 83% of the pulmonary specimens and 50% of the extrapulmonary specimens were smear positive. There was complete concordance between the smear-positive culture-positive specimens, independent of the anatomical site (100% sensitivity). The sensitivity of the MTB/RIF RUO assay for smear-negative specimens was 60% for pulmonary and 75% for extrapulmonary specimens, while the IS6110 LDT sensitivities were 40% and 0%, respectively. There was also complete concordance among the culture-negative specimens tested. Both assays showed 95% specificity, with four culture-negative specimens testing as positive. A review of patient records indicated that there was a high likelihood of the presence of M. tuberculosis complex DNA in the false-positive specimens. Biosafety analysis was performed and showed an acceptable reduction in organism viability using the processing methods described above. Both molecular assays are suitable for the detection of M. tuberculosis isolates in smear-positive pulmonary and extrapulmonary specimens, while the sensitivity of the detection of M. tuberculosis isolates in smear-negative specimens was variable.
Biochemistry and pharmacology of mucin-like glycoproteins produced by cultured airway epithelial cells.

(1991). Biochemistry and Pharmacology of Mucin-like Glycoproteins Produced by Cultured Airway Epithelial Cells. Experimental Lung Research: Vol. 17, No. 3, pp. 533-545.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia due to 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency

More than 90% of cases of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH, the inherited inability to synthesize cortisol) are caused by 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Females with severe, classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency are exposed to excess androgens prenatally and are born with virilized external genitalia. Most patients cannot synthesize sufficient aldosterone to maintain sodium balance and may develop potentially fatal "salt wasting" crises if not treated. The disease is caused by mutations in the CYP21 gene encoding the steroid 21-hydroxylase enzyme. More than 90% of these mutations result from intergenic recombinations between CYP21 and the closely linked CYP21P pseudogene. Approximately 20% are gene deletions due to unequal crossing over during meiosis, whereas the remainder are gene conversions--transfers to CYP21 of deleterious mutations normally present in CYP21P. The degree to which each mutation compromises enzymatic activity is strongly correlated with the clinical severity of the disease in patients carrying it. Prenatal diagnosis by direct mutation detection permits prenatal treatment of affected females to minimize genital virilization. Neonatal screening by hormonal methods identifies affected children before salt wasting crises develop, reducing mortality from this condition. Glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement are the mainstays of treatment, but more rational dosing and additional therapies are being developed.
Effect of nicotinamide and pentoxifylline on normal tissue and FSA tumor oxygenation.

Nicotinamide (NA) and pentoxifylline (PTX) sensitize experimental murine tumors to radiation without sensitizing normal tissues. They are presumed to exert this effect by reducing hypoxia in tumors...
Modules of co-regulated metabolites in turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizome suggest the existence of biosynthetic modules in plant specialized metabolism

Turmeric is an excellent example of a plant that produces large numbers of metabolites from diverse metabolic pathways or networks. It is hypothesized that these metabolic pathways or networks contain biosynthetic modules, which lead to the formation of metabolite modules—groups of metabolites whose production is co-regulated and biosynthetically linked. To test whether such co-regulated metabolite modules do exist in this plant, metabolic profiling analysis was performed on turmeric rhizome samples that were collected from 16 different growth and development treatments, which had significant impacts on the levels of 249 volatile and non-volatile metabolites that were detected. Importantly, one of the many co-regulated metabolite modules that were indeed readily detected in this analysis contained the three major curcuminoids, whereas many other structurally related diarylheptanoids belonged to separate metabolite modules, as did groups of terpenoids. The existence of these co-regulated metabolite modules supported the hypothesis that the 3-methoxyl groups on the aromatic rings of the curcuminoids are formed before the formation of the heptanoid backbone during the biosynthesis of curcumin and also suggested the involvement of multiple polyketide synthases with different substrate selectivities in the formation of the array of diarylheptanoids detected in turmeric. Similar conclusions about terpenoid biosynthesis could also be made. Thus, discovery and analysis of metabolite modules can be a powerful predictive tool in efforts to understand metabolism in plants.
A noise-reduction approach to scene segmentation for large video databases

Automatic video segmentation is the first and necessary step that structures a video into several smaller and meaningful units for effective browsing and retrieval for large video databases. The effectiveness of this step is, thus, very crucial to the overall performance of a video database management system. We present a novel concept in scene segmentation called noise-reduction scene segmentation. This approach discards irrelevant areas or noise in a video frame from being used in the segmentation process to increase the accuracy of the segmentation. Unlike existing techniques, video frames are first noise-reduced and only relevant information is left for subsequent steps of the segmentation process. Our experimental results indicate that a seamless integration of our simple noise filter to an existing scene segmentation technique offers a non-negligible improvement in the segmentation accuracy (i.e., as much as 59% less falsely detected scenes).
Impact of antibiotic choices made in the emergency department on appropriateness of antibiotic treatment of urinary tract infections in hospitalized patients.

BACKGROUND Overuse of antibiotics to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) is common in hospitalized patients and may begin in the emergency department (ED). METHODS For a 4-week period we reviewed medical records of all patients admitted to the hospital who initiated treatment for a UTI in the ED. RESULTS According to study criteria, initiation of antibiotics was inappropriate for 55 of 94 patients (59% [95% confidence interval {CI}, 48%-69%]), and continuation after admission was inappropriate for 54 of 80 patients (68% [95% CI, 57%-78%]). CONCLUSION Failure to reevaluate the need for antibiotics initiated in the ED to treat UTIs may lead to overuse of antibiotics in hospitalized patients. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:181–184. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Composition and Palatability of Breads Made with Ground Soybean Products

Three ground soy products were prepared from whole soybeans, using equipment available to many homemakers, and incorporated into yeast-leavened bread as substitutes for 12 percent of the wheat flour. The moisture, fat, protein and thiamin contents of the soy products, wheat flour, a commercial soy flour, and the prepared breads were determined. Trypsin inhibitor ac tivity of the soy products was assayed. The heat treatments used decreased the level of trypsin inhibitor to an acceptable level. The volumes of soy-containing breads were less than those of the wheat flour controls. Breads prepared with the soy products were evaluated by a taste panel and were judged between fair and good for all characteristics. Home prepared soy prod ucts can be used to prepare palatable breads and supplement the protein content of wheat bread.
Major risk factors and coronary heart disease: Much has been achieved but crucial challenges remain

Coronary heart disease (CHD) morbidity, disability and mortality remain high in the U.S. and constitute a major challenge to medical science and public health. Annual economic costs (direct and indirect) of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in this country in 2001 are estimated to exceed $298.2 billion
Hedge Funds and Systemic Risk

The public media and politicians regularly debate the potential for hedge funds to contribute to systemic risk in financial markets. Because the hedge fund industry experienced substantial growth over the past two decades, concerns about hedge funds’ systemic risk have increased and regulators have taken measures to mitigate possible risks associated with these funds. The chapter summarizes the pre- and post-crisis debate and highlights the post-crisis evidence regarding hedge funds’ alleged systemic risk. In particular, the authors examine evidence regarding specific factors surrounding hedge funds’ possible contributions to systemic risk, including risk management incentives, leverage, liquidity characteristics, regulation, financial stability, transparency, and their potential to induce and perpetuate market contagion.
Ultrastructure of septa, asci, and ascospores of Eremothecium ashbyii

Septa of Eremothecium ashbyii are complete crosswalls (not plugs) and develop by centripetal growth of the hyphal wall. The structure and behavior of spindle pole bodies appear very similar to those of other hemiascomycetous yeasts. Nuclear divisions within spore sacs appear to be uninuclear meiotic divisions. Spore-delimiting membranes develop around individual lobes of dividing nuclei. Wall material forms between the spore-delimiting membranes and consists of an inner light primary layer and an outer dense secondary layer. Spore sacs of E. ashbyii are interpreted as true hemiasci.
CONTROLLER DESIGN FOR LOW SPEED FLIGHT IN TURBULENCE

An autopilot design for low speed flight of a lightly loaded aircraft in the presence of turbulence is investigated. Analysis of wind gust models reveals that gust spectral content is relatively more important than gust magnitude in evaluating aircraft closedloop performance. A representative linear quadratic controller with loop transfer recovery is designed to track airspeed and angle of attack commands. In flight simulation the controller demonstrates good tracking performance with low control power requirements only when a low bandwidth turbulence is modeled in the compensator.
Determination of 7 Microcystin Variants in Aquatic Products by High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry

[Objective] To establish a high performance liquid chromatography-tandem triple quadrupole mass spectrometry method for simultaneous determination of 7 variants of microcystins in aquatic products.[Methods]All samples were subject to extraction in Tris–HCl buffer(pH=7),clean-up with Oasis HLB solid phase extraction,C18 separation,mass spectrometry detection and quantification with internal standards.[Results]After effective extraction and purification,7 microcystins of LR,RR,YR,LA,LW,LY and LF were detected simultaneously.The mean recoveries spiked at levels of 10μg/kg and 40μg/kg in four matrices were 51%-112% and 60%-117%,with relative standard deviation of 1.7%-12.7% and 0.9%-8.0%(n=6),respectively.The limits of detection were 0.20-0.40μg/kg.[Conclusion]A rapid and practical method with high efficiency is proposed and provides technical basis for standard determination protocol of microcystins.
Metallogenic time and tectonic setting of the Jiaodong gold province, eastern China

In this paper we use published isotopic ages for gold deposits and related rocks in the Jiaodong peninsula ( East Shandong Province) to investigate the time and tectonic setting of the large scale gold metallogeny in the region, which contains world-class lode gold deposits. According to this database, metallogenic processes in this area occurred in the Mesozoic, with peak activities between 110 Ma and 130 Ma. In the Jiaodong gold province the mineralising events are coeval with or postdates Mesozoic granitoid intrusions. Both the Rb-Sr isochron ages and zircon SHRIMP dating results suggest that Mesozoic granitoids were emplaced during several thermal events. The identification of inherited zircons coupled with ISr ratios ( 0. 709) indicate that these granitoids were mainly sourced from the continental crust by remelting or partial melting. The ISr values obtained from ores and fluid inclusions are generally higher than 0. 709, and slightly higher than those for Mesozoic granitoids. This also indicates that both ore fluids and metals were mainly sourced from the crust. A synthesis of the available data suggests that collision between the South and North China continents was probably the dominant factor responsible for the gold metallogeny in the Jiaodong gold province. Granitoid emplacement and large-scale gold metallogenesis can be related to three important stages in the geodynamic evolution of a collisional orogen ( compression-crustal thickening-uplift, lithospheric delamination and transition to extension and a final extension phase). The most important metallogenic phase occurred at the transition from collisional compression to extension tectonics. A previously developed model for collisional orogeny, metallogeny and fluid flow (CMF) can be used to interpret the key characteristics of ore deposits and igneous rocks in the Jiaodong gold province.
Two Ears Are Not Always Better than One: Mandatory Vowel Fusion Across Spectrally Mismatched Ears in Hearing-Impaired Listeners

Hearing loss and auditory prostheses can alter auditory processing by inducing large pitch mismatches and broad pitch fusion between the two ears. Similar to integration of incongruent inputs in other sensory modalities, the mismatched, fused pitches are often averaged across ears for simple stimuli. Here, we measured parallel effects on complex stimulus integration using a new technique based on vowel classification in five bilateral hearing aid users and eight bimodal cochlear implant users. Continua between five pairs of synthetic vowels were created by varying the first formant spectral peak while keeping the second formant constant. Comparison of binaural and monaural vowel classification functions for each vowel pair continuum enabled visualization of the following frequency-dependent integration trends: (1) similar monaural and binaural functions, (2) ear dominance, (3) binaural averaging, and (4) binaural interference. Hearing aid users showed all trends, while bimodal cochlear implant users showed mostly ear dominance or interference. Interaural pitch mismatches, frequency ranges of binaural pitch fusion, and the relative weightings of pitch averaging across ears were also measured using tone and/or electrode stimulation. The presence of both large interaural pitch mismatches and broad pitch fusion was not sufficient to predict vowel integration trends such as binaural averaging or interference. The way that pitch averaging was weighted between ears also appears to be important for determining binaural vowel integration trends. Abnormally broad spectral fusion and the associated phoneme fusion across mismatched ears may underlie binaural speech perception interference observed in hearing aid and cochlear implant users.
Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and sex difference affect the fate of glucose in the human heart

Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and sex difference affect myocardial glucose uptake and utilization. However, their effect on the intramyocellular fate of glucose in humans has been unknown. How the heart uses glucose is important, because it affects energy production and oxygen efficiency, which in turn affect heart function and adaptability. We hypothesized that type 2 diabetes, sex difference, and obesity affect myocardial glucose oxidation, glycolysis, and glycogen production. In a first-in-human study, we measured intramyocardiocellular glucose metabolism from time-activity curves generated from previously obtained positron emission tomography scans of 110 subjects in 3 groups: nonobese, obese, and diabetes. Group and sex difference interacted in the prediction of all glucose uptake, utilization, and metabolism rates. Group independently predicted fractional glucose uptake and its components: glycolysis, glycogen deposition, and glucose oxidation rates. Sex difference predicted glycolysis rates. However, there were fewer differences in glucose metabolism between diabetic patients and others when plasma glucose levels were included in the modeling. The potentially detrimental effects of obesity and diabetes on myocardial glucose metabolism are more pronounced in men than women. This sex difference dimorphism needs to be taken into account in the design, trials, and application of metabolic modulator therapy. Slightly higher plasma glucose levels improve depressed glucose oxidation and glycogen deposition rates in diabetic patients.
Cybercrime and Cybersecurity in India

While information technology (IT) plays a central role in the economic and social development, a growing cybercrime threat has been a significant concern for most countries. The Indian cybercrime landscape has followed a trend that is broadly similar to that of the rest of the world. In some cities, there have been more cybercrime cases being registered with the police than conventional crimes such as murder, burglary and arson (Hindustan Times, 2009). One unscientific estimate suggested that India loses five times as much in online frauds compared to burglary and theft (Rahman, 2012).
Human-in-the-loop control through kinematic redundancy resolution for space exploration rovers

We present an architecture to enable the modeling of human-in-the-loop control problem of space exploration robotic systems. We describe a shared control architecture, originally developed for assistive and disaster response robotics, for potential use in a space exploration scenario. Examples relevant to space are provided to highlight the different elements of the shared control architecture. A method for integrating human input with the autonomous behavior of the system using redundancy resolution taking into account primary and secondary tasks is presented. Five different modalities of shared control are described with the redundancy resolution method. The shared control architecture and redundancy resolution allow human input to be integrated as constraints on the kinematic model of the system.
A diffusion equation

For a » 1 and s » 1 we have obtained accurate estimates of the equilibrium joint distribution when \(\kappa = {{\left( {s - a} \right)} \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{\left( {s - a} \right)} {\sqrt s }}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {\sqrt s }}\) is either large and positive or large and negative. In the former case, Ni(t) could be treated like a continuous random variable but the distribution was sensitive to the integer values of Ns(t). In the latter case Ns(t) could be treated as a continuous random variable but the distribution of Ni(t) decayed at a geometric rate (like (s/a)j’). From the arguments of section 3 one can also understand how these distributions evolve in time. If κ is of order 1, however, Ni(t) and Ns(t) should both be of order \(\sqrt s\) and behave like continuous random variables except possibly on or near boundaries where Ni(t) and/or Ns(t) = 0.
Long-term tectonothermal history of Laramide basement from zircon–He age-eU correlations

Abstract The long-term (>1 Ga) thermal histories of cratons are enigmatic, with geologic data providing only limited snapshots of their evolution. We use zircon (U–Th)/He (zircon He) thermochronology and age-composition correlations to understand the Proterozoic–Phanerozoic thermal history of Archean Wyoming province rocks exposed in the northern Laramide ranges of western North America. Zircon He ages from the Wind River Range (54 dates) and Bighorn Mountains (32 dates) show negative correlations with effective uranium (eU), a proxy for radiation damage. Zircon dates from the Bighorns are between 960 Ma (low-eU) and 20 Ma (high-eU) whereas samples from the Wind Rivers are between 582 Ma (low-eU) and 33 Ma (high-eU). We applied forward modeling using the zircon radiation damage and annealing model ZrDAAM to understand this highly variable dataset. A long-term t – T path that is consistent with the available geologic constraints successfully reproduced age-eU correlations. The best fit to the Wind Rivers data involves two phases of rapid cooling at 1800–1600 Ma and 900–700 Ma followed by slower cooling until 525 Ma. During the Phanerozoic, these samples were heated to maximum temperatures between 160 and 125 °C prior to Laramide cooling to 50 °C between 60 and 40 Ma. Data from the Bighorn Mountains were successfully reproduced with a similar thermal history involving cooler Phanerozoic temperatures of ∼115 °C and earlier Laramide cooling between 85 and 60 Ma. Our results indicate that age-eU correlations in zircon He datasets can be applied to extract long-term thermal histories that extend beyond the most recent cooling event. In addition, our results constrain the timing, magnitude and rates of cooling experienced by Archean Wyoming Province rocks between recognized deformation events, including the >1 Ga period represented by the regionally-extensive Great Unconformity.
Measuring the Economic Effect of Alien Tort Statute Liability

In Kiobel v. Royal Dutch Petroleum Co., the US Supreme Court dramatically restricted the scope of the Alien Tort Statute (ATS), holding that the statute does not permit victims of human rights abuses to sue foreign corporations for violations of international law that took place entirely abroad. We draw on three unique characteristics of the decision to estimate its effect on companies’ valuations. First, we show that extractive industry firms with headquarters abroad experienced larger cumulative abnormal returns following the ruling. By contrast, similar US-based firms—which generally remain subject to ATS liability—did not benefit from the decision. Second, we demonstrate that foreign-based firms benefited both on the final decision date and on the earlier date when the Court slated the case for reargument on the issue of extraterritoriality. Third, we show that this effect varied with the human rights records of host countries: mining firms based abroad with subsidiaries in countries with poor human rights records benefitted most. Although our results cannot resolve debates over the merit of ATS suits, we do show that the Kiobel decision mattered: for foreign firms, it decreased the cost of doing business under regimes with records of human rights violations. (JEL G14, K13, K33, K41, L72)
Electric steering power electronics

Vehicular power steering systems incorporating electric motors to either drive the hydraulic pump or the steering gear must offer long term reliability and yet be cost competitive. The electronics used to manage the steering system's electric motor includes large power transistor devices and single chip MCUs (microcontrollers). These active electronic devices and the motor type affect the performance of the steering system in numerous ways. Finding the best overall control strategy for motor speed and torque requires some compromise in the microcontroller's computational ability and power efficiency of the motor. Usually high-end DSPs are selected for their fast computational speed which is required for some vector control type motor strategies. Other lower cost motor control specific MCUs can be used if reduced motor speed or torque performance is acceptable.
Implementing Interoperability in E-Justice's Criminal Area

This article briefly explains the results and findings of research conducted by the author on interoperability in the e-Justice area, carried out at the Department of Justice of the Autonomous Government of Catalonia in Spain. The research is related to a case study, a court information system called "GRP" that manages the police requests sent by the criminal court (Jimenez, 2010). The article will briefly introduce relevant research from a crime prevention perspective and comment on some e-Justice interoperability elements. The article then goes into the analytical findings and finally gives an overview of the main conclusions.