cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Making digital tv easier for less-technically-inclined people

Digital TV systems are becoming increasingly complex. Less-technically-inclined people may find these systems difficult to use. This qualitative usability study observed less-technically-inclined people using a typical multi-device, multi-remote-control digital TV system after having been instructed by a more-technically-inclined member of their household, who had also just discovered how to use the system. The results showed that, overall, the problems experienced by the less-technically-inclined people were similar in nature to those experienced by the more-technically-inclined household member. The most serious problems involved determining which remote control to use for a given function, making remote control mode errors, and having difficulty going back to TV from recordings and locked channels.
Application of stochastic theory to vibration-rotation inelasticity in the He-H2 system

Previous papers considered describing molecular collisions by the techniques of nonequilibrium statistical mechanics. In the present work this stochastic theory of molecular collisions is applied to vibration–rotation inelasticity in the He4–(para‐H2) system. Some improvement in the theory is presented to better handle energetic effects, particularly important in the weak coupling limit. The resulting formulation leads to the solution of simultaneous Fokker–Planck and master equations for the rotational and vibrational motion, respectively. Scattering cross sections were computed for total energies from 1.3 to 4.0 eV. At this highest energy 85 vibration–rotation states of H2 are energetically accessible. Very strong near‐resonant vibration–rotation inelasticity was found from the high rotational levels (j∼18). The results are compared to quantum mechanical calculations and experimental measurements.
Evaluation of the Botulism Hazard from Imitation Cheeses

Eleven imitation cheeses were studied for their ability to support growth and toxin production of Clostridium botulinum types A and B at 26°C. The aw of the cheeses ranged from 0.942–0.973 and the pH from 5.53–6.14. Spores of five type A and five type B strains were inoculated into approximately 50 sampless of each cheese. In 289 days only one type, an imitation mozzarella, became toxic. In two separate tests, 27 of 77 samples of imitation mozzarella contained toxin. The earliest toxic sample was noted in 26 days; however, the product was organoleptically unacceptable. Imitation cheese thus appears to pose no hazard from botulism, even under conditions of abuse.
Roles of activated Src and Stat3 signaling in melanoma tumor cell growth

Activation of protein tyrosine kinases is prevalent in human cancers and previous studies have demonstrated that Stat3 signaling is a point of convergence for many of these tyrosine kinases. Moreover, a critical role for constitutive activation of Stat3 in tumor cell proliferation and survival has been established in diverse cancers. However, the oncogenic signaling pathways in melanoma cells remain to be fully defined. In this study, we demonstrate that Stat3 is constitutively activated in a majority of human melanoma cell lines and tumor specimens examined. Blocking Src tyrosine kinase activity, but not EGF receptor or JAK family kinases, leads to inhibition of Stat3 signaling in melanoma cell lines. Consistent with a role of Src in the pathogenesis of melanoma, we show that c-Src tyrosine kinase is activated in melanoma cell lines. Significantly, melanoma cells undergo apoptosis when either Src kinase activity or Stat3 signaling is inhibited. Blockade of Src or Stat3 is also accompanied by down-regulation of expression of the anti-apoptotic genes, Bcl-x(L) and Mcl-1. These findings demonstrate that Src-activated Stat3 signaling is important for the growth and survival of melanoma tumor cells.
Advanced Signal Processing for High Temperatures Health Monitoring of Condensed Water Height in Steam Pipes

An advanced signal processing methodology is being developed to monitor the height of condensed water thru the wall of a steel pipe while operating at temperatures as high as 250°C. Using existing techniques, previous study indicated that, when the water height is low or there is disturbance in the environment, the predicted water height may not be accurate. In recent years, the use of the autocorrelation and envelope techniques in the signal processing has been demonstrated to be a very useful tool for practical applications. In this paper, various signal processing techniques including the auto correlation, Hilbert transform, and the Shannon Energy Envelope methods were studied and implemented to determine the water height in the steam pipe. The results have shown that the developed method provides a good capability for monitoring the height in the regular conditions. An alternative solution for shallow water or no water conditions based on a developed hybrid method based on Hilbert transform (HT) with a high pass filter and using the optimized windowing technique is suggested. Further development of the reported methods would provide a powerful tool for the identification of the disturbances of water height inside the pipe.
Sex-related differences in diurnal activities and development of hepatic microsomal 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme a reductase and cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase

Abstract The activities of hepatic microsomal 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA reductase and cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase were consistently higher (up to 3-fold) in female compared to male rats fed 2% cholestyramine for 8 h daily. In all animals studied, enzymic activities were highest 6 h after feeding began. However, 85% of the rise in cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase activity occurred in the 6 h before and 89% of the rise in 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA reductase activity occurred in the 6 h after feeding started. Sex-related differences in both enzymic activities first became apparent at the time of sexual maturity. Enzymic activities before weaning were generally low and a late-suckling (13–20 days) rise in cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase was not accompanied by a rise in 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA reductase. For all of these studies we assayed cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase at two concentrations of exogenous cholesterol to obviate problems relating to size of the cholesterol pool.
Cavity method for quantum spin glasses on the Bethe lattice

We propose a generalization of the cavity method to quantum spin glasses on fixed connectivity lattices. Our work is motivated by the recent refinements of the classical technique and its potential application to quantum computational problems. We numerically solve for the phase structure of a connectivity $q=3$ transverse field Ising model on a Bethe lattice with $\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}J$ couplings and investigate the distribution of various classical and quantum observables.
Solar thermal engine systems using two stage concentrators

Abstract The overall efficiency of a system including a solar paraboloidal concentrator augmented by a new type of nonimaging second stage concentrator (shaped like the bell of a trumpet) and coupled to a heat engine is investigated. Typically, a relative increase of 10 per cent in system efficiency was found due to the second stage.
Transforming the junior level: Outcomes from instruction and research in E&M

Over the course of four years, we have researched and transformed a key course in the career of an undergraduate physics major---junior-level electricity and magnetism. With the aim of educating our majors based on a more complete understanding of the cognitive and conceptual challenges of upper-division courses, we used principles of active engagement and learning theory to develop course materials and conceptual assessments. Our research results from student and faculty interviews and observations also informed our approach. We present several measures of the outcomes of this work at the University of Colorado at Boulder and external institutions. Students in the transformed courses achieved higher learning gains compared to those in the traditionally taught courses, particularly in the areas of conceptual understanding and ability to articulate their reasoning about a problem. The course transformations appear to close a gender gap, improving female students' scores on conceptual and traditional assessments so that they are more similar to those of male students. Students enthusiastically support the transformations, and indicate that several course elements provide useful scaffolding in conceptual understanding, as well as physicists' ``habits of mind'' such as problem-solving approaches and work habits. Despite these positive outcomes, student conceptual learning gains do not fully meet faculty expectations, suggesting that it is valuable to further investigate how the content and skills indicative of ``thinking like a physicist'' can be most usefully taught at the upper division.
The Evolution of Respiratory Cryptosporidiosis: Evidence for Transmission by Inhalation

The protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium infects all major vertebrate groups and causes significant diarrhea in humans, with a spectrum of diseases ranging from asymptomatic to life-threatening. Children and immunodeficient individuals are disproportionately affected, especially in developing countries, where cryptosporidiosis contributes substantially to morbidity and mortality in preschool-age children. Despite the enormous disease burden from cryptosporidiosis, no antiprotozoal agent or vaccine exists for effective treatment or prevention. Cryptosporidiosis involving the respiratory tract has been described for avian species and mammals, including immunocompromised humans. Recent evidence indicates that respiratory cryptosporidiosis may occur commonly in immunocompetent children with cryptosporidial diarrhea and unexplained cough. Findings from animal models, human case reports, and a few epidemiological studies suggest that Cryptosporidium may be transmitted via respiratory secretions, in addition to the more recognized fecal-oral route. It is postulated that transmission of Cryptosporidium oocysts may occur by inhalation of aerosolized droplets or by contact with fomites contaminated by coughing. Delineating the role of the respiratory tract in disease transmission may provide necessary evidence to establish further guidelines for prevention of cryptosporidiosis.
Comparison of Waxy vs. Nonwaxy Wheats in Fuel Ethanol Fermentation

ABSTRACT Fermentation performance of eight waxy, seven nonwaxy soft, and 15 nonwaxy hard wheat cultivars was compared in a laboratory dry-grind procedure. With nitrogen supplements in the mash, the range of ethanol yields was 368–447 L/ton. Nonwaxy soft wheat had an average ethanol yield of 433 L/ton, higher than nonwaxy hard and waxy wheat. Conversion efficiencies were 91.3–96.2%. Despite having higher levels of free sugars in grain, waxy wheat had higher conversion efficiency than nonwaxy wheat. Although there was huge variation in the protein content between nonwaxy hard and soft wheat, no difference in conversion efficiency was observed. Waxy cultivars had extremely low peak viscosity during liquefaction. Novel mashing properties of waxy cultivars were related to unique pasting properties of starch granules. With nitrogen supplementation, waxy wheat had a faster fermentation rate than nonwaxy wheat. Fermentation rates for waxy cultivars without nitrogen supplementation and nonwaxy cultivars with nitro...
Which xenobiotic(s) could be responsible for the radiologic findings below? Answer: any proconvulsant xenobiotic, in this case tramadol, bupropion, and nortriptyline.

Background The proconvulsive properties of tramadol, bupropion, and nortriptyline have been well documented. Spinal fractures secondary to drug-induced seizures have been rarely reported.
Surface-Enhanced Vibrational and TPD Study of Nitroaniline Isomers

Ortho-, meta-, and para-nitroaniline isomers (ONA, MNA, and PNA, respectively) were investigated with surface-enhanced infrared absorption (SEIRA) and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) via adsorption of the individual isomers on vacuum-deposited silver films and on silver powders of varying physical dimensions using temperature-programmed desorption (TPD). PNA exhibited a strong SERS signal, whereas the ONA and MNA isomers showed more moderate enhancement. Only the MNA isomer exhibited SEIRA. Varying the polarity of the deposition solvent changed the MNA adsorbate orientation and the degree of vibrational enhancement. Solvent experiments with MNA were the first to show SEIRA enhancement of the −NH2 symmetric and antisymmetric stretch modes. TPD and vibrational experiments show evidence for nitroaniline intermolecular hydrogen bonding on 100-μm silver powder while suggesting stronger nitroaniline adsorption to 100-nm silver powder. Resonance effects, adsorbate geometries, and hydrogen-bonding vari...
Race, secondary school course of study, and college type

Abstract Race shapes many aspects of students’ high school experiences relevant to post-secondary educational attainment. We examine the racially-specific effects of high school course of study on type of college attended, whether two-year or four-year, using NELS 1988–2000 and a comprehensive measure of course intensity derived from students’ patterns of course-taking. Results include the presence of racially-specific effects of high school course of study, with racial/ethnic minority students in the middle course intensity ranges more likely to attend four-year college than Whites with similar coursework. Using a theory of racialized meritocracy, we also find that educational expectations mediate the relationships among race, course of study, and post-secondary attendance differently for students of different racial groups, such that they play a larger role in mediating the relationship between course of study and post-secondary attendance for White students.
Aircraft Measurement of Mesoscale Pressure Gradients and Ageostrophic Winds

Abstract Determination of the horizontal pressure gradient force over distance scales less than 100 km is possible using airborne altimetry and detailed maps of the underlying terrain. To detect the very small isobaric slopes, instrumentation must perform up to specification and aircraft position must be known within about 250 m in order to achieve an adequate matching of altimeter height and terrain height. Numerous test flights were conducted to study the stability of the technique. Results indicate the system is capable of resolving pressure gradients with equivalent geostrophic wind errors of approximately ± 1 m s−1 over a 100 km horizontal scale.
Cellulase lessons revealed through the microbe's perspective

Cellulose, the world's most abundant organic material, is central to the world's ecosystem. This energy resource is mobilized and recycled by microbial action. The inspired microbe has developed both considerable insight and efficient strategies for optimizing the use of this energy resource. Thus, cellulase is produced under strict regulatory control, is located optimally with respect to the microbe's habitat, and furthermore, the enzyme components act cooperatively in a synergistic manner. This microbial genius has been integrated into the Fuels from Biomass Programs and is illustrated with examples of cellulase production fromMicrobispora bispora, Thermotoga neapolitana, andTrichoderma reesei.
SEX DIFFERENCES IN OCCUPATIONAL CHOICE, PAY, AND WORTH: A SUPPLY‐SIDE APPROACH TO UNDERSTANDING THE MALE‐FEMALE WAGE GAP

The purpose of this study was to explore the utility of adopting a supply-side approach to understanding the nature of wage differentials between men and women. Using an expectancy theory framework, a sample of 272 job applicants evaluated a set of job outcomes and rated the instrumentalities and expectancies for each of eight jobs that varied in terms of sex dominance, pay, and worth. Preferences for each job also were obtained using a paired comparison procedure. The results suggested that much of the wage gap between men and women can be explained by (1) evaluations of multiple outcomes other than pay and (2) gender-related differences in expectancies, instrumentalities, and valences with respect to these outcomes. Both the theoretical and practical utility of approaching the issue of comparable worth from a supply as well as a demand side are discussed.
Calibration of Circular Dichrometers

Abstract The tris (hydroxymethyl)aminomethane salt of d-10-camphorsulfonic acid (TRIS-CSA) provides a convenient, non-hygroscopic alternative to the parent compound in the calibration of circular dichrometers. The molecular ellipticities, [6], of TRIS-CSA at 291 and 191 nm are 8015± 11 and -16, 130± 40 deg cm2 dmol−1, respectively. The circular dichroism (CD) maxima in terms of δe are 2.429 1 cm−1 mol−1 at 291 nm and -4.888 1 cm−1 mol−1at 191 nm. TRIS-CSA has an ORD peak at 306.5 nm, a zero crossover at 292 nm, and a trough at 270.5 nm (molecular rotation, [M]306.5=4475± 10, [M]270.5= -5615± 10 deg cm2 dmol−1), and a molar absorptivity, e, of 35.9± 0.2 1 cm−1 mol−1 at 286 nm.
Functional organization of the ventral lateral geniculate complex of the tree shrew (Tupaia belangeri): I. Nuclear subdivisions and retinal projections.

This is the first of two papers describing the organization and connections of the ventral lateral geniculate complex (GLv) in the tree shrew. Using a combination of Nissl, Golgi, histochemical, and immunocytochemical methods, we have identified two major divisions (lateral and medial) of GLv, both of which can be further subdivided. The lateral division contains three subdivisions, external, internal and intergeniculate leaflet. The medial division contains two subdivisions, medio-rostral and medio-caudal. All three lateral subdivisions receive input from the retina, the densest terminations being in the external subdivision and intergeniculate leaflet. These projections originate primarily from small retinal ganglion cells, although a feẁ large retinal ganglion cells also project to GLv by way of collateral branches. Each subdivision of GLv has a distinct cytoarchitectonic and immunocytochemical make-up. In general, the level of immunoreactive endings for glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), leuenkephalin (ENK), and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) parallels the distribution of retinal projections. Thus, all three markers are particularly dense in the external subdivision and the intergeniculate leaflet. Cell bodies immunoreactive for ENK are restricted to the external and intergeniculate leaflet subdivisions. The medial subdivisions stain relatively poorly for GAD, ENK, and ChAT, although each has other cytological features that differentiate them from the lateral subdivisions and the adjacent thalamic reticular nucleus. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Further comments on autonomous state classifiers and an application to genetics

Abstract An alternative construction is given for dynamical systems capable of autonomous state classifiacation, in which the classification is accomplished through the setting of rates of change of states rather than directly into the classifier states. A number of conclusions are drawn bearing upon the employment of such classifiers to read out states of genetic information.
Tutorial: The uncertain end to silicon

Summary form only given. As silicon technology moves progressively to ever smaller geometries, the uncertainties in the devices, due to atomic level imperfections and processing options become an ever larger factor in the design of systems-on-chip. The variabilities, mismatch and noise of 20nm and below process geometries dominate the design of these integrated circuits, affecting memory circuitry, analog blocks, digital logic and RF interfaces. We here discuss design practices to minimize systematic and random mismatch in memory blocks. We also discuss the emergence of Random Telegraph Noise in memory units. Design techniques for analog modules susceptible to mismatch and noise are considered, as are logic operation, guardbanding and operating stresses in the presence of these design uncertainties. RF operation is highly susceptible to phase noise issues, and limits, and mitigation methods are described. All these effects mean longer design cycles, and require operating safety margins that reduce the effectiveness of moving to the next process node. We investigate the question of whether it will be this type of process effect that will eventually stop silicon technology from advancing further.
Accounting for R: shifting segments and constraint-based grammar

Abstract This paper explores segmental shifts and their formalization in constraint-based models. Using historic French data on rhotics (“r-like sounds”), productive and perceptual evaluative matrices are proposed to account for output variability, including a formalization of ranked output. If ad hoc segmental constraints are proscribed, as it is argued, the ultimate selection of one rhotic over another cannot be fully explained without recourse to knowledge units deriving from extra-grammatical factors, in this instance social forces. Proposals for the reconciliation of constraint-based models with attested data include the reintroduction of parochial rules and the admission of learned, non-universal constraints.
Emotional distress following genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer: a meta-analytic review.

Objective Meta-analysis was used to synthesize results of studies on emotional consequences of predictive genetic testing for BRCA1/2 mutations conferring increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Factors Associated With Fouling in the Process Industry

This study is concerned with the sequence and character of the events that take place after the initial exposure of the surface to the product, that is, the buildup and composition of a conditioning film on the surface. Calculations show that for short transient studies, conditioning film measurements can be made to values as small as 3.0 microns. Utilizing higher heating rates (5 W/cm2) and shorter transients allow measurements to 2.0 microns. This type of monitoring system can function as an alarm device to signal when a critical point of biofilm buildup is reached. Maintenance procedures can be initiated at the proper time rather than at arbitrary intervals, thus minimizing down time and ensuring product safety. Conclusions include methods to monitor and control the conditioning film formation and deposit growth for various process industries.
Fugitives and ethnography in Priscus of Panium

AbstractBecause the historical writings of Priscus of Panium survive only in fragments, we regrettably lack knowledge of the full complexity of this fifth century historian's concerns. Widely cited in Byzantine sources, the greatest part of Priscus’ work is found in the Excerpta de Legationibus, which was compiled from ancient texts by the emperor Constantine VII Porphyrogenitos in the middle of the tenth century as part of an encyclopedic collation of educational and practical information. The Excerpta, which dealt with international relations, found much of interest in Priscus, whose history included a detailed account of the struggle between the Romans and Attila the Hun. Of particular value is Priscus' first-hand account of an embassy to Attila in 449 to discuss the exchange of fugitives and other matters. On this journey Priscus served as an assistant to Maximinus, the leader of the diplomatic mission sent from Constantinople. Envoys to foreign lands regularly included in their reports detailed obser...
Immunohistochemical evidence for a substance P-containing trigeminovascular pathway to pial arteries in cats

Abstract Immunoreactive substance P-containing fibers were examined in large pial arteries from 3 cats 21–28 days following unilateral trigeminal ganglionectomy. The number and density of fibers decreased dramatically in arterior, middle and posterior cerebral arteries ipsilateral to the lesion. By contrast, no changes were present in basilar and other arteries supplying posterior fossa. These observations support the existence of a trigeminovascular substance P-containing pathway to large pial arteries supplying forebrain structures.
Glutamic acid gamma-monohydroxamate and hydroxylamine are alternate substrates for Escherichia coli asparagine synthetase B.

Escherichia coli asparagine synthetase B (AS-B) catalyzes the synthesis of asparagine from aspartic acid and glutamine in an ATP-dependent reaction. The ability of this enzyme to employ hydroxylami...
A Czar's ukase explained: An analysis of Tractatus 5.54 FF

Wittgenstein's style in the Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus' is extremely concise and brief. The section I consider in this paper (Tr 5.545.5422, hereinafter 'the 5.54's') has been defined as a passage "of almost unpenetrable obscurity."2 Referring to it, Russell wrote: "[Wittgenstein] himself, as usual, is oracular and emits his opinions as if it were a Czar's ukase ( . )."I In this paper, I consider three different interpretations of the 5.54's, and evaluate them in the light of the distinction between two different senses in which Wittgenstein employs the term 'Satz' ('proposition') in the Tractatus. I try to unfold the theory of propositions operative in the 5.54's and, accordingly, I conclude that Wittgenstein explains away prima facie counter-examples to the Extensionality Thesis by holding that they are not, strictly speaking, proper propositions.
Expression of the Serum- and Glucocorticoid-inducible Protein Kinase, Sgk, Is a Cell Survival Response to Multiple Types of Environmental Stress Stimuli in Mammary Epithelial Cells

The effects of multiple stress stimuli on the cellular utilization of the serum- and glucocorticoid-inducible protein kinase (Sgk) were examined in NMuMg mammary epithelial cells exposed to hyperosmotic stress induced by the organic osmolyte sorbitol, heat shock, ultraviolet irradiation, oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide, or to dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid that represents a general class of physiological stress hormones. Each of the stress stimuli induced Sgk protein expression with differences in the kinetics and duration of induction and in subcellular localization. The environmental stresses, but not dexamethasone, stimulated Sgk expression through a p38/MAPK-dependent pathway. In each case, a hyperphosphorylated active Sgk protein was produced under conditions in which Akt, the close homolog of Sgk, remained in its non-phosphorylated state. Ectopic expression of wild type Sgk or of the T256D/S422D mutant Sgk that mimics phosphorylation conferred protection against stress-induced cell death in NMuMg cells. In contrast, expression of the T256A/S422A Sgk phosphorylation site mutant has no effect on cell survival. Sgk is known to phosphorylate and negatively regulate pro-apoptotic forkhead transcription factor FKHRL1. The environmental stress stimuli that induce Sgk, but not dexamethasone, strongly inhibited the nuclear transcriptional activity and increased the cytoplasmic retention of FKHRL1. Also, the conditional IPTG inducible expression of wild type Sgk, but not of the kinase dead T256A mutant Sgk, protected Con8 mammary epithelial tumor cells from serum starvation-induced apoptosis. Taken together, our study establishes that induction of enzymatically active Sgk functions as a key cell survival component in response to different environmental stress stimuli.
Accurate and precise transcriptional profiles from 50 pg of total RNA or 100 flow-sorted primary lymphocytes

We have developed a total RNA amplification and labeling strategy for use with Affymetrix GeneChips. Our protocol, which we denote BIIB, employs two rounds of linear T7 amplification followed by Klenow labeling to generate a biotinylated cDNA. In benchmarking studies using a titration of mouse universal total RNA, BIIB outperformed commercially available kits in terms of sensitivity, accuracy, and amplified target length, while providing equivalent results for technical reproducibility. BIIB maintained 50 and 44% present calls from 100 and 50 pg of total RNA, respectively. Inter- and intrasample precision studies indicated that BIIB produces an unbiased and complete expression profile within a range of 5 ng to 50 pg of starting total RNA. From a panel of spiked exogenous transcripts, we established the BIIB linear detection limit to be 20 absolute copies. Additionally, we demonstrate that BIIB is sensitive enough to detect the stochastic events inherent in a highly diluted sample. Using RNA isolated from whole tissues, we further validated BIIB accuracy and precision by comparison of 224 expression ratios generated by quantitative real-time PCR. The utility of our method is ultimately illustrated by the detection of biologically expected trends in a T cell/B cell titration of 100 primary cells flow sorted from a healthy mouse spleen.
The MOPED framework: Object recognition and pose estimation for manipulation

We present MOPED, a framework for Multiple Object Pose Estimation and Detection that seamlessly integrates single-image and multi-image object recognition and pose estimation in one optimized, robust, and scalable framework. We address two main challenges in computer vision for robotics: robust performance in complex scenes, and low latency for real-time operation. We achieve robust performance with Iterative Clustering Estimation (ICE), a novel algorithm that iteratively combines feature clustering with robust pose estimation. Feature clustering quickly partitions the scene and produces object hypotheses. The hypotheses are used to further refine the feature clusters, and the two steps iterate until convergence. ICE is easy to parallelize, and easily integrates single- and multi-camera object recognition and pose estimation. We also introduce a novel object hypothesis scoring function based on M-estimator theory, and a novel pose clustering algorithm that robustly handles recognition outliers. We achieve scalability and low latency with an improved feature matching algorithm for large databases, a GPU/CPU hybrid architecture that exploits parallelism at all levels, and an optimized resource scheduler. We provide extensive experimental results demonstrating state-of-the-art performance in terms of recognition, scalability, and latency in real-world robotic applications.
Human 3β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase/ δ5→4Isomerase from Placenta: Expression in Nonsteroidogenic Cells of a Protein that Catalyzes the Dehydrogenation/Isomerization of C21 and C19 Steroids*

The isolation, cloning, and expression of a cDNA insert complementary to mRNA encoding human 3β- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/δ5→4isomerase is reported. The insert contains an open reading frame encoding a protein of 372 amino acids, the initial 29 amino acids corresponding to the Nterminal sequence identified from the purified human placental microsomal enzyme. The cDNA was inserted into a modified pCMV vector and expressed in COS-1 monkey kidney tumor cells. The expressed protein was similar in size to human placental microsomal 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/ Aδ5→4isomerase, as detected by immunoblot analysis, and catalyzed the conversion of 17α-hydroxypregnenolone to 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, pregnenolone to progesterone, and dehydroepiandro3- terone to androstenedione. Transfected COS cell homogenates, supplemented with NAD+, very efficiently oxidized 5α-androstan- 3β,17β-diol to 5α-dihydrotestosterone and, upon addition of NADH, reduced 5α-dihydrotestosterone to 5α-androstan- 3β,17β-diol. Thus, the ...
Outsourced IT Projects from the Vendor Perspective: Different Goals, Different Risks

As outsourced and multinational IT projects become more common, managing risks for these projects is increasingly important. The research reported here examines key risks identified by Hong Kong vendor project managers working on both local and international package implementation projects. In addition to the typical risks that threaten project outcome success, respondents noted location-specific risks on their multinational projects. They also distinguished threats to the satisfactory process of the project, and threats to their own firms from competitors and from potential damage to their reputation arising from customer dissatisfaction with either the outcomes or the process of the project. Using an agency theory perspective, this broader focus is examined in the light of differing definitions of project success for clients and outsource providers.
Protease inhibitor controls prophenoloxidase activation in Manduca sexta.

Abstract Prophenoloxidase from the hemolymph of tobacco hornworm Manduca sexta can be activated by a specific activating enzyme found in the cuticle. Inhibition studies with benzamidine, diisopropyl phosphofluoridate and p-nitrophenyl-p′-guanidinobenzoate indicate that the activating enzyme is a trypsin-like serine protease. An endogenous protease inhibitor, isolated from the hemolymph of Manduca larvae, inhibits the prophenoloxidase activation mediated by this enzyme. These results indicate that the probable physiological role of endogenous protease inhibitor is to control the undesired activation of prophenoloxidase in the hemolymph.
Data visualization in archaeology

Archaeological field work produces vast amounts of three-dimensionally recorded data which can only be analysed using computers. Developments in data-visualization techniques are continually increasing the volume and complexity of data that can be studied meaningfully. In particular, three systems developed at the IBM United Kingdom Scientific Centre have been applied in a wide variety of archaeological situations: a graphics-database system called the Winchester Graphics System (WGS), IBMs IAX (Image Applications eXecutive) image processing system, and the WINchester SOlid Modelling system called WINSOM. It has been shown that these systems not only permit well-known problems to be answered in new and interesting ways but have freed archaeologists to explore previously undiscovered avenues of research. The techniques developed using these systems also have major implications for education and training.
Seeing is believing: Dynamic evolution of gene families.

Educated by his deep appreciation of nature, Darwin observed that “from so simple a beginning endless forms most beautiful” have arisen throughout the evolutionary history of life on earth (1). The spectacular diversity of orchids (2) and beetles (3) has long fascinated naturalists and casual observers alike. More recently, the adaptive radiations of Hawaiian drosophilids (4), Caribbean Anolis lizards (5), and African cichlid fishes (6) have become prime examples for understanding the mechanisms that enable diversification. Gene duplication and deletion are generally considered important evolutionary mechanisms that give rise to phenotypic diversity (7). Following gene duplication and loss, adaptation and speciation appear to proceed through a combination of both structural and cis-regulatory changes in one or more paralogous genes (8). Recent advances in sequencing technology have enabled researchers to make significant progress in understanding the molecular evolution that has facilitated diversification. In PNAS, Cortesi et al. (9) examine the evolution of vertebrate opsin genes as a spectacular example of how gene duplication and deletion events that affect spectral sensitivity have driven adaptation to diverse light environments and visual displays.
Relationship Between Children’s Sleep and Mental Health in Mothers of Children with and Without Autism

The study employed 90 children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) who were matched to 90 typically developing children on age, gender, and ethnicity. Using structural equation modeling, maternal sleep and maternal stress mediated the relationship between children's sleep and mothers' mental health for mothers of children with and without ASDs. Mothers of children with ASDs reported more problems related to children's sleep, their own sleep, greater stress, and poorer mental health; however, children's sleep and maternal sleep were more closely related to maternal stress for mothers of typically developing children. Implications of these findings and future directions for research are discussed.
Downregulation of the LAR protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor is associated with increased dentate gyrus neurogenesis and an increased number of granule cell layer neurons.

Abstract Growth factors stimulating neurogenesis act through protein tyrosine kinases which are counterbalanced by protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs); thus, downregulation of progenitor PTP function might provide a novel strategy for promoting neurogenesis. We tested the hypotheses that the leukocyte common antigen-related (LAR) PTP is present in adult dentate gyrus progenitors, and that its downregulation would promote neurogenesis. In adult mice, LAR immunostaining was present in Ki-67- and PCNA-positive subgranular zone cells. At 1 h post-BrdU administration, LAR−/− mice demonstrated an ∼3-fold increase in BrdU- and PCNA-positive cells, indicating increased progenitor proliferation. At 1 day and 4 weeks following 6 days of BrdU administration, LAR−/− mice exhibited a significant increase in BrdU and NeuN colabeled cells consistent with increased neurogenesis. In association with increased neurogenesis in LAR−/− mice, stereological analysis revealed a significant 37% increase in the number of neurons present in the granule cell layer. In cultured progenitor clones derived from LAR+/+ mice, LAR immunostaining was present in PCNA- and BrdU-positive cells. Progenitor clones derived from adult LAR−/− hippocampus or LAR+/+ clones made LAR-deficient with LAR siRNA demonstrated increased proliferation and, under differentiation conditions, increased proportions of Tuj1- and MAP2-positive cells. These studies introduce LAR as the first PTP found to be expressed in dentate progenitors and point to inhibition of LAR as a potential strategy for promoting neurogenesis. These findings also provide a rare in vivo demonstration of an association between increased dentate neurogenesis and an expanded population of granule cell layer neurons.
REACTIONS OF TERT-BUTYL ISOCYANIDE WITH DISTONIC RADICAL CATIONS

Abstract The reactivity of tert -butyl isocyanide was examined toward representative distonic radical cations. Two distinct types of reactivity were found, that characteristic of the electrophilic and/or acidic nature of the charge site of the ion, and that characteristic of the unpaired spin at the free radical moiety. Tert -butyl isocyanide reacts with charged groups via transfer of a cyanide ion and/or abstraction of a proton, while a cyano radical is transferred to the radical site. These two types of reactivity are usually mutally exclusive due to great differences in reaction rates. Tert -Butyl isocyanide reacts preferentially at the distonic radical cation’s charge site. Reaction occurs at the radical site only if the charge site is inert, for example, by virtue of low acidity and coordinative saturation. The applicability of tert -butyl isocyanide to the study of distonic radical cations is demonstrated and insight into the structures of selected charged phenyl radicals is provided.
Individual Chick Recognition and Family Integrity in the Ring-Billed Gull

In field experiments designed to determine the nature and chronological development of chick recognition by natural-breeding Ring-billed Gulls, adults tending broods for a variable number of days were given recognition tests by replacing their own young with chicks from other nests. Introduced chicks of the same age as the resident brood were nearly always accepted during the first 5 days posthatching and usually rejected after the 7th day whether or not a resident chick remained on the territory. Adults with 7-day-old chicks presented with substitute 2-day-old broods either pecked or abandoned the younger chicks in almost all cases. Adults repeatedly presented with normally advancing-age substitute chicks each morning for the first eight days posthatching showed no signs of rejecting substitute chicks at any point. The pattern of parental activity shown by these birds resembled that of controls allowed to associate continuously with their own chicks. To examine the perceptual basis of recognition, a series of resident chicks 12-20 days old were surgically devocalized, and another series were marked with black ink to alter their individualistic plumage and facial patterns. No changes were observed in the behavior of parents toward muted or near-muted chicks, but over half of the parents attacked the visibly altered chicks. These attacks diminished within a few hours as the chicks persisted in showing positive approach responses to the attacking parent. In similar tests with 3- to 4-day-old chicks marked in the same way there were no rejections, suggesting that the markings did not, in themselves, constitute releasers for aggressive attack. The major findings of the study are interpreted as follows: a. Parent Ring-billed Gulls are able to recognize their own chicks after about 7 to 9 days posthatching, the stage at which increasing mobility terminates the family isolating mechanism provided by territorial boundaries. b. In identifying their own chicks, parent gulls can use individual variations in physical appearance. They may also respond positively to the relaxed comportment characteristic of chicks in familiar physical and social surroundings. c. In the social congestion that prevails in a gull breeding colony, individual recognition between parent and offspring provides the basis for a system of exclusive family units. This system, along with territorialism during the egg and early chick stages, permits a breeding bird to channel its reproductive energy to its own offspring exclusively, thereby promoting its own genes in contention with competing-gene carriers in the colony.
Cystic Fibrosis Factors. Effect of Serum on the Secretory Response of Dispersed Rat Submandibular Cells

Summary patients into normal sweat glands in situ induces a defect in Na' The action of serum from cystic fibrosis patients on the intracellular maintenance, efflux, and uptake of potassium ions in dispersed acinar cells from the rat submandibular gland, a seromucous salivary gland, was investigated in an attempt to demonstrate the presence of factors affecting ion-coupled secretion. No effects specific to cystic fibrosis serum were demonstrated upon the following parameters of potassium transport: (1) maximal stimulation of K+ efflux by the cholinergic agonist carbamylcholine; (2) the dose-response curve of K+ efflux in reponse to carbamylcholine; (3) re-entry of K+ into cells after carbamylcholine stimulation; (4) the maintenance of K+ in the absence of added effectors. No differences were observed between cells pretreated with serum and cells to which serum was added at the time of cholinergic stimulation of secretion. At high concentrations, serum from both normal individuals and those with cystic fibrosis severely damaged the cells in a rapid and irreversible fashion. K+ transport has a direct, closely coupled, specific relationship to secretory activity and is Ca" dependent in this system. From these observations, we conclude that serum from individuals with cystic fibrosis does not contain chemical compounds which specifically alter the major components of ion-coupling to secretion or the secretory process itself in salivary gland acinar cells.
Power laws of high Rayleigh number convection

Previous theoretical and observational investigations have shown that vertical plumes are formed in the high Rayleigh number convection field over heated horizontal surfaces and that these plumes become unsteady and turbulent when the Rayleigh number is higher than about 20 times its critical value Rc. Based on these results, we conclude that the dissipation of kinetic energy takes place mainly in the surface boundary layer in high Rayleigh number laminar convection and mainly in the vertical plumes in turbulent convection, while the conversion of eddy potential energy into kinetic energy is accomplished mainly in the well-mixed main body of the fluid. On making use of these rather general conclusions concerning the kinetic energy generation and dissipation processes in the energy integrals, we are able to derive the well known 5/4 and 4/3 power laws of upward heat transfer by laminar and turbulent convections theoretically.
Modelling of endoluminal and interstitial ultrasound hyperthermia and thermal ablation: applications for device design, feedback control and treatment planning

Endoluminal and catheter-based ultrasound applicators are currently under development and are in clinical use for minimally invasive hyperthermia and thermal ablation of various tissue targets. Computational models play a critical role in device design and optimisation, assessment of therapeutic feasibility and safety, devising treatment monitoring and feedback control strategies, and performing patient-specific treatment planning with this technology. The critical aspects of theoretical modelling, applied specifically to endoluminal and interstitial ultrasound thermotherapy, are reviewed. Principles and practical techniques for modeling acoustic energy deposition, bioheat transfer, thermal tissue damage, and dynamic changes in the physical and physiological state of tissue are reviewed. The integration of these models and applications of simulation techniques in identification of device design parameters, development of real time feedback-control platforms, assessing the quality and safety of treatment delivery strategies, and optimisation of inverse treatment plans are presented.
Body weight status and onset of functional limitations in U.S. middle-aged and older adults.

Abstract Background The sweeping obesity epidemic could further increase the incidence of functional limitations in the U.S. rapidly aging population. Objective To examine the relationship between body weight status and onset of functional limitations in U.S. middle-aged and older adults. Methods Study sample came from 1992 to 2010 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative longitudinal survey of community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from self-reported height/weight. Functional limitations were classified into physical mobility limitation (PM), large muscle function limitation (LMF), activities of daily living limitation (ADL), gross motor function limitation (GMF), and fine motor function limitation (FMF). Mixed-effect logistic regressions were performed to estimate the relationship between prior-wave body weight status and current-wave onset of functional limitations, adjusted for individual characteristics and survey design. Results Prior-wave body weight status prospectively predicted onset of functional limitation, and the relationship showed a U-shaped pattern. Compared with their normal weight counterparts, the odds ratios (ORs) in underweight (BMI Conclusions Proper weight management during aging is crucial in preventing functional limitations in middle-aged and older adults.