cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recasting of the image deblocking problem into the domain of image denoising

Summary form only given. A new approach is proposed to solve the blocking artifact problem that results from block transform-based image compression at very low-bit rates. The recasting of the blocking artifact problem into the domain of AWGN reduction allows any algorithm that has been developed for image denoising to now be a candidate solution for the blocky image problem. Furthermore, experimental results that are based on a wavelet-based image denoising technique are reported.
Fiber optic busing scheme in optical communications

The feasibility of fiber busing using multiple-fiber paths is discussed. Types of fiber-optic cables and their performance are described. It is shown how to compute the important performance parameters of a fiber-optic link, namely, the coupling and attenuation of signals, the rise time, and the frequency response. The geometrical shapes of fiber termination that maximize the optical coupling are considered. >
Measuring arrangement similarity between thematic raster databases using a quadtree-based approach

Measuring the degree of similarity between thematic raster databases is a common task widely used in remote sensing accuracy assessment, spatial model validation, and many other geospatial tasks. However, conventional similarity measures look only at point-to-point similarity; they are not designed to evaluate the similarity of shapes and arrangements of features within the databases being compared. This study proposes a technique of assessing arrangement similarity based on a comparison of quadtree representations of the maps being evaluated. Empirical assessment shows that the technique produces results that agree strongly with subjective evaluations of the similarity of artificial raster databases produced by a survey of map users.
Why Do Kids Say Goed and Brang

Words and Rules The Ingredients of Language. Steven Pinker. Basic Books, New York, 1999. 362 pp. $26, C$39.50. ISBN 0-465-07269-0. Pinker presents a popular exposition of his research into how children learn language. Although his account, focused on English past-tense verb forms, is engaging and informative, our reviewers argue that it does not grant neural network models the importance they warrant.
Regulation of Genetically Engineered Crops in India: Implications of Policy Uncertainty for Social Welfare, Competition, and Innovation

India is the regional leader in research and development (R&D) in agricultural biotechnology (agri-biotech) in South Asia. Commercialization of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cotton—the first and only commercial genetically engineered (GE) crop in India—in 2002 was preceded by illegal cultivation and diffusion of unapproved cultivars, raising serious questions of the state's regulatory capacity. Bt eggplant, the first GE food crop to get approval for environmental release in 2009, has not yet been commercialized. An indefinite moratorium on its commercialization was imposed by the Minister of Environment and Forests in 2010. We examine the regulatory framework in India and use the cases of Bt cotton and Bt eggplant regulation to examine the types and sources of nonmarket failures associated with the regulatory policy. We also analyze the demonstrated and likely effects of regulatory uncertainty on social welfare and development of the agri-biotech industry. We adopt implementation analysis to suggest policy options worth considering to address the nonmarket failures of regulatory policy.
A sliding scale method to reduce the differential non linearity of a time digitizer

A novel technique for improving the differential nonlinearity (DNL) of an existing time digitizer is presented. Modern subnanosecond time to digital converters that interpolate within a slower clock to achieve a high effective clock rate (and correspondingly small least count) usually exhibit DNL, which is a direct result of imperfections in the interpolation. This can be substantially reduced by applying a sliding scale in the time domain. A comparison of results with and without the sliding scale are presented for a widely used commercial time digitizer.
Dissecting the Computational Architecture of Social Inference Mechanisms

Scientists have been dissecting the neural architecture of the human mind for several centuries. Dissecting its computational architecture has proven more difficult, however. Within the cognitive sciences, for example, there is a debate about the extent to which human reasoning is generated by computational machinery that is domain specific and functionally specialized. While some claim that the same set of cognitive processes accounts for reasoning across all domains (e.g. Rips 1994, Johnson-Laird & Byrne 1991), others argue that reasoning is generated by several different mechanisms, each designed to operate over a different class of content (e.g. Baron-Cohen 1995, Cheng & Holyoak 1985, Cosmides & Tooby 1992, Leslie 1987). Indeed, it has recently been proposed that the human cognitive architecture contains a faculty of social cognition; a suite of integrated mechanisms, each of which is specialized for reasoning and making decisions about a different aspect of the social world. Candidate devices include a theory of mind mechanism, an eye direction detector, social contract algorithms, permission schemas, obligation schemas, precaution rules, threat detection procedures and others (e.g. Baron-Cohen 1995, Cheng & Holyoak 1985, Cosmides 1985, 1989, Cosmides & Tooby 1989, 1992, 1994, Fiddick et al 1995, Fiske 1991, Jackendoff 1992, Leslie 1987, K. Manktelow & D. Over, unpublished paper, 1st Int Conf on Thinking, Plymouth, UK 1988, Manktelow & Over 1990, M.Rutherford, J. Tooby, L. Cosmides, unpublished paper, 8th Annual Meeting Human Behav Evol Society, Northwestern Univ, IL 1996, J. Tooby & L. Cosmides, unpublished paper, 2nd Annual Meeting Human Behav Evol Society, Evanston, IL 1989). To decide among these sometimes competing proposals, psychologists need empirical methods and theoretical standards that let us carve social inference mechanisms at the joints. We will argue that the theoretical standards needed are those of the 'adaptationist programme' developed in evolutionary biology. To show how these standards can be applied in dissecting the computational architecture of the human mind, we will discuss some recent empirical methods and results.
CELL CYCLE AND POST-TRANSCRIPTIONAL REGULATION OF ANNEXIN EXPRESSION IN IMR-90 HUMAN FIBROBLASTS

Based on the finding that the expression of some annexins varies dramatically as a function of cellular proliferation state [Schlaepfer and Haigler (1990) J. Cell Biol. 111, 229-238], it has been proposed that the cellular level of the annexins might be critical for the regulation of cell growth. To further test this hypothesis, we have studied the expression of various annexins in normal human IMR-90 fibroblasts synchronized by serum deprivation. Using immunoblotting, the cellular content of annexins (Anxs) II, V and VI was found to vary by less than 10% during the cell cycle. However, Anx IV expression increased by 50% during S-phase and the levels of Anxs I and VII were reduced by 40% in early G2/M. However, using RNase protection assays, the mRNAs of Anxs I and VII were found to be uniformly expressed throughout the cell cycle, suggesting that down-regulation of both proteins in G2/M occurred through a post-transcriptional process. In addition, cells transfected with Anx VII cDNA were shown to contain an amount of Anx VII similar to wild-type cells, despite the elevation of Anx VII mRNA content in transfected cells by approx. 2 orders of magnitude. Vector misconstruction or possible secretion of the overexpressed protein were ruled out using appropriate controls. Therefore, as with cell-cycle regulation, Anx VII expression in transfected cells is also controlled by post-transcriptional mechanisms. Furthermore, using pulse-chase analysis, we have determined that annexin VII, and other Anxs, have a slow turnover rate, consistent with the limited changes of expression throughout the cell cycle. Taken together, these results question the hypothesis that cellular expression of Anxs plays a general role in cell growth and support the concept that post-transcriptional mechanisms may control levels of Anxs I and VII.
Ambient resonance of Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park, Utah

We analyzed the resonance characteristics of a prominent natural arch in Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Arch, as measured from ambient seismic data. Evaluating spectral and polarization attributes, we distinguished the first four resonant frequencies of the arch, 2.9, 6.0, 6.9, and 8.5 Hz, as well as basic properties of the associated mode shapes. We then affirmed experimental data using 3-D numerical modal analysis, providing estimates of material properties and clarifying vibrational mode shapes. Monitoring resonant frequencies over time, we searched for shifts associated with changing environmental conditions and long-term progressive damage. We measured ~3% direct daily variation in resonant frequency associated with changing rock temperature, thermal stress, and stiffening of the rock matrix. Independent tilt data showed similar diurnal cycles associated with thermoelastic stresses and deformation of the arch. We observed no permanent resonant frequency shifts related to irreversible damage of Mesa Arch during our study period.
Parenteral aluminum administration in the dog: II. Induction of osteomalacia and effect on vitamin D metabolism

Abstract Parenteral aluminum administration in the dog: II. Induction of osteomalacia and effect on vitamin D metabolism. There is an association between bone aluminum (Al) accumulation and dialysis-associated osteomalacia (OM). To study whether Al is pathogenic in OM, quantitative bone histomorphometry was done in six dogs before (Bx 1) and after (Bx 2) 3 to 5 weeks of intravenous Al administration (1mg Al + + + /kg/day). Bone Al was determined by histochemical and chemical methods. The percent osteoid rose from 2.8 ± 0.8 to 7.0 ± 4.3% (mean ±SD), P 2 D fell from 26.8 ± 9.1 to 4.5 ± 5.5 pg/ml after 17 days of Al; serum 25(OH)D levels were unchanged. These data indicate that Al can cause OM and that its severity correlates with the bone Al content. These findings suggest that Al has a direct effect on bone; the role of altered vitamin D metabolism in mediating these changes remains to be defined. Administration parenterale d'aluminium chez le chien: II. Induction d'une osteomalacie et effet sur le metabolisme de la vitamine D. Il existe une association entre l'accumulation d'aluminium osseux (Al) et l'osteomalacie associee a l'hemodialyse. Afin d'etudier si Al a un role pathogene dans OM, une histomorphometrie osseuse quantitative a ete effectuee chez six chiens avant (Bx 1) et apres (Bx 2) 3 a 5 semaines d'administration intraveineuse d'Al (1mg Al + + + /kg/jour). L'Al osseux a ete determine par des methodes histochimiques et chimiques. Le pourcentage d'osteoide s'est eleve de 2,8 ± 0,8 a 7,0 ± 4,3% (moyenne ±SD), P 2 D ont baisse de 26,8 ± 9,1 a 4,5 ± 5,5 pg/ml apres 17 jours d'Al; les concentrations seriques de 25(OH)D etaient inchangees. Ces donnees indiquent qu'Al peut entrainer une OM dont la severite est correlee au contenu osseux en Al. Ces resultats suggerent qu'Al a un effet direct sur l'os; le role de l'alteration du metabolisme de la vitamine D dans ces modifications reste a determiner.
Visual determinants of escape in tiger beetle larvae (Cicindelidae)

Larvae of tiger beetles (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) are burrow-dwelling, visual ambush predators which withdraw into their burrows with the passing of large objects. Laboratory experiments confirmed that stimulation of each of the four principal stemmata can elicit escape and that the necessary visual stimulus is contracting, expanding, or transverse movement of a high-contrast image. Response frequency increases as a power function of contrast. Whole-field dimming is ineffective. Movement of large images composed of multiple texture elements, e.g., checkerboards, does not elicit escape, even if each element is much larger than the system's minimum visible angle (4–8° depending upon image contrast). In pilot experiments with a single figure before a textured background, coherent movement of the two inhibits escape, whereas motion in opposite directions does not. Thus, the processing mechanism functions as a feature detector and directs a response to large, single, moving objects.
Induction of heme oxygenase 1 by arsenite inhibits cytokine-induced monocyte adhesion to human endothelial cells

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is an oxidative stress responsive gene upregulated by various physiological and exogenous stimuli. Arsenite, as an oxidative stressor, is a potent inducer of HO-1 in human and rodent cells. In this study, we investigated the mechanistic role of arsenite-induced HO-1 in modulating tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) induced monocyte adhesion to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Arsenite pretreatment, which upregulated HO-1 in a time- and concentration-dependent manner, inhibited TNF-α-induced monocyte adhesion to HUVEC and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 protein expression by 50% and 40%, respectively. Importantly, knockdown of HO-1 by small interfering RNA abolished the arsenite-induced inhibitory effects. These results indicate that induction of HO-1 by arsenite inhibits the cytokine-induced monocyte adhesion to HUVEC by suppressing adhesion molecule expression. These findings established an important mechanistic link between the functional monocyte adhesion properties of HUVEC and the induction of HO-1 by arsenite.
Applications of Augmented Reality [Scanning the Issue]

The articles in this special issue focus on the technology and applications supported by augmented reality.
A microcomputer-based control system for the total artificial heart

Abstract A microcomputer-based control system for a pneumatically driven artificial heart is developed in which the control philosophy consists of P-wave synchronization and stabilization of atrial pressures at desired levels. A self-tuning algorithm based on pole-placement for a two-input, two-output PI-controller is proposed. An electrical analogue model of the circulatory system is used to illustrate the coupling effect of the systemic and pulmonary circulations by decoupling the whole system into subsystems. The performance of the control system has been demonstrated by in vitro experiments on a mock circulatory system. It is shown that stabilization of atrial pressures gives a good solution to the balancing problem of blood volume output, and the adjustment of the desired levels of atrial pressures corresponding to changes of heart rate produces effective physiological control.
Pulsation Periods of General Relativistic Objects

THE pulsation period of the lowest radial mode for a spherical homogeneous object in Newtonian theory is1 (if τ1 =const): and if τ1 − 4/3 > 0, the period may vary over a wide range depending on the density.
Quantum Chromodynamics Test for Jets

A new quantity, the maximum of the directed momentum, is proposed which measures jetlikeness in ${e}^{+}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ annihilation. This quantity is computed in the quark-gluon model by using renormalization-group improved perturbation theory.
Relativity of inwards and outwards: an example

The meaning of the inward and outward directions in a curved space is not absolute and this may create paradoxes and confusions. An interesting example of such a situation which occurs around a compact star is discussed
Tectono-stratigraphic terranes and the metamorphic history of the northeastern part of the crystalline core of the North Cascades: evidence from the Twisp Valley Schist

The Twisp Valley Schist (TVS) is important for both the correlation of terranes in the Cascades crystalline core and for the determination of the metamorphic pressure–temperature–time history of the northeastern part of the core. The TVS is a chaotically mixed unit of mainly siliceous schist (metachert) with significant amounts of metabasite, calc-silicate rock, and marble, and minor ultramafite and metapsammite. Geochemical analyses of metabasites indicate that the TVS contains both ocean-island basalts (OIB) and mid-ocean-ridge basalts (MORB). The TVS is lithologically similar to the Napeequa unit of the Chelan Mountains terrane in the Cascades core and is broadly correlative with units outside of the core, including the Mississippian–Jurassic Bridge River – Hozameen terrane of the eastern Coast belt, and coeval OIB-bearing terranes in the Northwest Cascades thrust system. Much of the northeastern Cascades core thus consists of oceanic rocks that probably originally lay between the Insular and the Inter...
Perceptual consequences of centre–surround antagonism in visual motion processing

Centre–surround receptive field organization is a ubiquitous property in mammalian visual systems, presumably tailored for extracting image features that are differentially distributed over space1. In visual motion, this is evident as antagonistic interactions between centre and surround regions of the receptive fields of many direction-selective neurons in visual cortex2,3,4,5,6. In a series of psychophysical experiments we make the counterintuitive observation that increasing the size of a high-contrast moving pattern renders its direction of motion more difficult to perceive and reduces its effectiveness as an adaptation stimulus. We propose that this is a perceptual correlate of centre–surround antagonism, possibly within a population of neurons in the middle temporal visual area. The spatial antagonism of motion signals observed at high contrast gives way to spatial summation as contrast decreases. Evidently, integration of motion signals over space depends crucially on the visibility of those signals, thereby allowing the visual system to register motion information efficiently and adaptively.
A Multistep Automatic Calibration Scheme for River Forecasting Models

Abstract Operational flood forecasting models vary in complexity, but nearly all have parameters for which values must be estimated. The traditional and widespread manual calibration approach requires considerable training and experience and is typically laborious and time consuming. Under the Advanced Hydrologic Prediction System modernization program, National Weather Service (NWS) hydrologists must produce rapid calibrations for roughly 4000 forecast points throughout the United States. The classical single-objective automatic calibration approach, although fast and objective, has not received widespread acceptance among operational hydrologists. In the work reported here, University of Arizona researchers and NWS personnel have collaborated to combine the strengths of the manual and automatic calibration strategies. The result is a multistep automatic calibration scheme (MACS) that emulates the progression of steps followed by NWS hydrologists during manual calibration and rapidly provides acceptable ...
Differential development of β-endorphin and μ opioid binding sites in mouse brain

Mouse brains of various ages from embryonal day 14 (E14) to adult were analyzed for opioid receptor binding using the enkephalin analog Tyr-D-Ala-Gly-NMe-Phe-Gly-ol (DAMGE) and the opiate alkaloid dihydromorphine (DHM) as mu-selective radioligands. Binding parameters were estimated from homologous and heterologous competition binding curves. During the postnatal period, Kd values for [3H]DAMGE did not change but Bmax values (fmol/mg protein) increased 2.7 fold from postnatal day 3 (P3) to P7. Minor receptor density fluctuations were evident from P7 to adult. Similar results were obtained with [3H]DHM. In contrast, estimation of total mu binding sites (fmol/brain) revealed a continuous rise from P3 to the adult. The postnatal developmental profile of total mu binding sites was comparable to the weight gain of mouse brain and the increase in protein content. In contrast, during the same period beta-endorphin immunoreactivity (IR) levels undergo an increase that is inversely proportional to mu opioid receptor Bmax values. [3H]DAMGE binding to E14 membrane preparations was inhibited to a greater extent by Gpp(NH)p than that to P1 or adult. Additional characterization of mu receptors was accomplished by heterologous competition binding assays. IC50 values for beta-endorphin in competition with [3H]DHM and [3H]DAMGE were age dependent and differed for the two radioligands. These results suggest that mu receptor selectivity for mu-specific peptide and alkaloid ligands changes as a function of age.
Effects of weight cycling in female rats.

Abstract Recent reports indicate that weight cycling (repeated periods of weight gain and loss) cause an organism to become an energy conserver, meaning that the organism gains weight more quickly and loses weight more slowly during subsequent weight cycles. The effects of weight cycling on rates of weight gain and loss, caloric efficiency, and ad lib wheel running were investigated with three groups of adult female rats: 1) cycling (cycled twice); 2) maturity control (cycled once); and 3) chow control (not cycled). The cycled group evidenced weight-gain periods of 36 and 21 days, respectively, and showed a significant increase in food effeciency during the second weight-gain period, relative to the first. There was no evidence that maturation was responsible for this phenomenon. Time required to lose weight and ad lib wheel running were not influenced by weight cycling. These findings suggest that weight cycling may make maintenance of normal weight more difficult and have implications for human weight-control programs.
Restriction-site-specific PCR as a rapid test to detect enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 strains in environmental samples

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157:H7 is an important food-borne pathogen in industrialized countries. We developed a rapid and simple test for detecting E. coli O157:H7 using a method based on restriction site polymorphisms. Restriction-site-specific PCR (RSS-PCR) involves the amplification of DNA fragments using primers based on specific restriction enzyme recognition sequences, without the use of endonucleases, to generate a set of amplicons that yield "fingerprint" patterns when resolved electrophoretically on an agarose gel. The method was evaluated in a blinded study of E. coli isolates obtained from environmental samples collected at beef cattle feedyards. The 54 isolates were all initially identified by a commonly used polyclonal antibody test as belonging to O157:H7 serotype. They were retested by anti-O157 and anti-H7 monoclonal antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The RSS-PCR method identified all 28 isolates that were shown to be E. coli O157:H7 by the monoclonal antibody ELISA as belonging to the O157:H7 serotype. Of the remaining 26 ELISA-confirmed non-O157:H7 strains, the method classified 25 strains as non-O157:H7. The specificity of the RSS-PCR results correlated better with the monoclonal antibody ELISA than with the polyclonal antibody latex agglutination tests. The RSS-PCR method may be a useful test to distinguish E. coli O157:H7 from a large number of E. coli isolates from environmental samples.
Effects of successful cardiac transplantation on plasma endothelin

After cardiac transplantation, cyclosporine-treated patients exhibit a high incidence of systemic hypertension, the mechanism of which is not known. Endothelin, a potent vasoconstrictor peptide of endothelial origin, may be activated by cyclosporine-induced endothelial injury and therefore may mediate post-transplant hypertension. In the present study, we tested whether immunoreactive endothelin-1 could be detected by radioimmunoassay in the plasma of cardiac transplant recipients and if levels correlated with hemodynamic characteristics, cyclosporine level, or renal function as assessed by serum creatinine. Plasma endothelin was measured in 22 stable cyclosporine-treated patients 9 days to 3 years after successful orthotopic cardiac transplantation before routine hemodynamic assessment and surveillance endomyocardial biopsy. Fifteen patients were receiving chronic therapy for hypertension. Plasma endothelin-1 was 5.2 +/- 1.8 pg/ml (range 3.1 to 10.5), which was increased compared with that in 12 normal subjects (1.9 +/- 0.3 pg/ml; range 1.4 to 2.4); the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Repeated sampling in 8 patients at weekly intervals identified a persistent increase in endothelin with only modest variability. Endothelin-1 did not correlate with any hemodynamic variable, serum creatinine or cyclosporine level. Thus, endothelin-1 is increased after successful orthotopic cardiac transplantation. In the absence of discrete correlations with hemodynamic variables, serum creatinine or cyclosporine levels, both the characteristics and mechanisms for increased endothelin in recipients of cardiac transplants require further evaluation.
Finding the design matrix for the marginal homogeneity model

SUMMARY Suppose that a homogeneous group of n subjects is observed on T occasions. Each subject has one of K levels of response at each of the T occasions. The cross-classification of the recorded responses over time forms a K T contingency table. This paper discusses the design matrix for the marginal homogeneity model, which assumes that the first-order marginal probabilities at each time are equal. The marginal homogeneity model is a linear model for the vector of cell probabilities. We obtain the design matrix by linearly transforming the parameter space of the cell probabilities; our method will work for any T and any K.
Chemo-, Regio-, and Enantioselective Pd-Catalyzed Allylic Alkylation of Indolocarbazole Pro-aglycons

[reaction: see text] Monosubstituted isomerically pure indolopyrrolocarbazole precursors have been prepared via palladium-catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation methodology, employing both achiral cyclopentenyl electrophiles and chiral glycal derivatives. Chemoselective allylation of (bis)indole lactam pro-aglycon 3 allows access to N-distally substituted indolopyrrolocarbazole derivatives; glyoxamide precursor 14 provides entry into N-proximally substituted derivatives.
Redistribution by local governments in a monocentric urban area

Abstract In a typical metropolitan area in the U.S., households can choose among existing towns, or they can settle at the urban fringe. Locational choice typically involves considerations of ease of access to employment (e.g., commuting costs) as well as preferences over local governments' tax/ service bundles. This paper presents a framework for analyzing locational equilibrium in a system of communities with a single employment center. Communities differ in distance from the employment center, and in the redistributive tax they impose on residents. Households can avoid taxation by locating at the urban fringe. In this model, the population of each community and of the urban fringe is determined endogenously, as are the tax/transfer policies of local governments. In making political decisions about the level of taxes, voters take into account the effects of taxation on housing prices as well as the way taxes affect in- or out-migration. We characterize voting and locational equilibrium and use data from U.S. metropolitan areas to compute numerical solutions in a variety of cases. We find that the level of redistributive taxation in each community is strongly affected by the tenure composition of the community. When communities are composed of renters, households vote for relatively large redistributive taxes. In communities with significant numbers of owner-occupants, the political choice is for little or no redistributive local taxation.
Serial Microfluidic Device for Micro Droplet Trapping and Pairing

We propose a serial flowing microfluidic system for droplet generation along with a sequential trapping and pairing of micro-droplets. This device consists of three different functional regions: a flow focusing droplet generator; a single droplet trap region; and a pairing region. Our design is based on the principle of exploiting hydrodynamic resistance of the columnar structure in the microfluidic channel. By adjusting the flow rate and the fluid pressure inside the trapping area, the droplet trapping was precisely executed. The proposed method would continuously trap the droplets in the trapping area and when the reverse flow is applied, the droplet would be released and would enter the pairing chamber where it would be held until another droplet of different liquid to combine with it. Second droplet travels in the reverse flow direction and would be trapped in the pairing chamber to combine with first droplet.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
The application of trade and growth theories to agriculture: A survey

This article reviews a broad range of theoretical concepts available to explain international trade in agricultural and food products. For many years agricultural trade analyses were largely based on traditional perceptions of comparative advantage following neoclassical theory. Observations of agricultural trade suggest, however, that concepts from modern trade and growth theories are increasingly relevant. This survey demonstrates that many opportunities exist for applying these new theories to the modern food economy.
Correlated response of homologous characteristics in the anthropoid anterior dentition

Abstract A variety of morphological, occlusal and quantitative anthropoid anterior tooth traits may be explained as the correlated responses of homologous characteristics. These include homologous traits selected in females that are found in a reduced or vestigial form in males, and vice versa. Also included is a trait, canine projection, for which there may be correlated responses in both sexes. Because correlated response causes non-adaptive traits to be present and may interfere with optimal adaptation, it complicates analyses of the adaptive significance and evolution of the form, size, and sexual dimorphism of the anthropoid anterior dentition.
Multi-π0 experiments: An error analysis☆

Abstract It is well known that the number of π 0 's in a sample of events may be determined by detecting the resulting γ-ray conversions. Using a simple model, we derive a formula for the incertainty in the total number of π 0 's as a function of their total number and the gamma-ray conversion efficiency, e γ . Data for the reaction p p → pions at 1 GeV/ c are simulated and analyzed; results agree with the above model. δƒ 1 0 , δƒ 1 −0 , and δƒ 2 00 as functions of e γ are also determined from the simulated data. It is interesting that conventional hydrogen and deuterium bubble chamber experiments ( e γ ∼0.01) containing large numbers of events could compete favorably with smaller (e.g. ≈one-fifth the number of events) experiments having e γ ≥0.3, as far as small δƒ 1 0 and δƒ 2 −0 are concerned. For minimal uncertainty in ƒ 2 00 (and higher moments), however, experiments with e γ ⪆0.2 will be required.
Computable Performance Bounds on Sparse Recovery

In this paper, we develop verifiable sufficient conditions and computable performance bounds of $\ell_{1}$ -minimization based sparse recovery algorithms in both the noise-free and noisy cases. We define a family of quality measures for arbitrary sensing matrices as a set of optimization problems, and design polynomial-time algorithms with theoretical global convergence guarantees to compute these quality measures. The proposed algorithms solve a series of second-order cone programs, or linear programs. We derive performance bounds on the recovery errors in terms of these quality measures. We also analytically demonstrate that the developed quality measures are non-degenerate for a large class of random sensing matrices, as long as the number of measurements is relatively large. Numerical experiments show that, compared with the restricted isometry based performance bounds, our error bounds apply to a wider range of problems and are tighter, when the sparsity levels of the signals are relatively low.
The Intravesical Potassium Sensitivity Test and Urodynamics: Implications in a Large Cohort of Patients with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

Purpose: Bladder outlet obstruction secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common diagnosis in older men with lower urinary tract symptoms. However, these symptoms also can occur with interstitial cystitis. We determine whether the potassium sensitivity test is useful for distinguishing BPH from possible intersitial cystitis in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms. We also test the hypothesis that patients with these symptoms who have a positive test will have urodynamic findings consistent with the diagnosis of interstitial cystitis.Materials and Methods: The potassium sensitivity test was performed in 526 (95%) males and 25 (5%) females with lower urinary tract symptoms undergoing urodynamic testing. Urodynamic parameters in the positive and negative potassium sensitivity test groups were compared. %Results: Of the patients 16% (89 of 551) had a positive potassium sensitivity test. Compared with patients who had a negative test, those who had a positive test were younger (61 v...
Under your skin: Marina de Van and the contemporary French cinéma du corps

AbstractThis article explores the work of the French filmmaker Marina de Van, focusing on her debut feature Dans ma peau/In My Skin (2002), which deals with the issue of self-mutilation. The essay situates the film within the recent phenomenon of the cinema du corps, whose agenda is an on-screen interrogation of physicality in stark yet intimate terms. Using personal interviews and trade discourses, it then charts the cultural, professional and institutional contexts to de Van's career, emphasizing her foundational experiences in film school. Finally, it analyses Dans ma peau's use of avant garde style, de Van's experimental techniques as a performer, and the film's array of social critiques.
Understanding the underlying structure of deceptive behaviors

The goals of this project were to evaluate the structure of deceptive behaviors in college students and investigate relationships between personality and these behaviors. After developing nine categories of deceptions (Study 1), we created and administered a self-report instrument to undergraduate college students (Study 2) that assessed use of the categories as well as several self-report personality measures. We hypothesized a structure to our data that decomposed the original deception categories into three classes: Self-gain, Impression-Manipulation, and Disclosure. The instrument was revised and re-administered to a new group of students in Study 3. Our measurement model was tested using structural equation modeling (SEM). Variability on the resulting two classes of deceptions was predicted by unique combinations of personality traits. We suggest that categories of lying represent a hierarchy of broad to more specific types.
Early detection and propagation mitigation of worm programs

The wide-spread connectivity provided by Internet and an increasing use of computers have led to the rapid propagation of malicious mobile codes like viruses and worms. Worm programs have never stopped their attacking since Morris worm was found in 1988 [2]. Famous ones include Code Red and Nimda in 2001, SQL Slammer, Blaster and Welchia in 2003, Netsky and Sasser in 2004. The computer worms disrupt tens of thousands of businesses and homes worldwide, and cause millions of dollars of loss in the society [5]. In this paper, we propose a control system to automatically detect such malicious code and mitigate its propagation at the early infection stage.
Optimizing weighted graph topology for robust network information dissemination

The objective of this research is to develop a new hierarchical optimization-based design framework for balanced coordinated algorithms addressing robust sensor network information distribution problems so that the optimal responses to network damages and the optimal resource allocation will be achieved. In particular, this research will involve a two-stage hierarchical design in which the first stage is a network topology design for robustness and efficiency of connection in the network while the second stage is an optimal weight design for network graphs characterizing efficiency of information dissemination based on the graph topology obtained in the first stage. We convert the first stage design into a multi-objective optimization problem and the second stage design into a constrained optimization problem. To solve both proposed optimization problems, we develop a modified particle swarm optimization (MPSO) based stochastic algorithm to approximate optimal solutions of the multi-objective optimization problem and a semistable optimal control approach to solve the constrained optimization problem.
Investigation of peak frequencies in the flopping regime with a two-cylinder array

Abstract The variation of the base pressure coefficient (Cp), velocity power spectra, and velocity time–frequency plots for an array of two cylinders aligned normal to the flow are presented. Power spectra of the fluctuating velocity downstream of the two-cylinder array with s/d=0.750 (where s is the spacing between the top and bottom surfaces of adjacent cylinders and d is the diameter of the cylinder) show two peaks. The corresponding Wigner–Ville frequency–time plot of the same fluctuating velocity time series shows that the peak frequency observed during a narrow wake remains constant and relatively high while the peak frequency observed during a wide wake remains constant and relatively low. The two frequency values are consistent with the peaks observed in the power spectra. Thus, during flopping, the high frequency observed in the velocity power spectra is always the peak frequency for a narrow wake and the low frequency observed in the velocity power spectra is always the peak frequency for a wide wake.
Expression of Adrenomedullin 2 (ADM2)/Intermedin (IMD) in Human Placenta: Role in Trophoblast Invasion and Migration

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CALCB), amylin, and adrenomedullin (ADM) belong to a unique group of calcitonin (CALCA)/CALCB family peptides that have overlapping biological effects owing to their structure and cross-reactivity between receptors. CALCB and ADM are expressed in fetoplacental tissues and are important in maintaining normal placental function. Recently, ADM 2 (ADM2)/intermedin was identified as a novel CALCA/CALCB family peptide that functions through CALCB and ADM receptors. ADM2 is expressed in the pituitary, digestive tract, and other organs of vertebrates and reduces blood pressure in both normal and hypertensive rats. We recently reported that the level of immunoreactive ADM2 is significantly upregulated in pregnant rats and that its hypotensive effects are also increased during rat pregnancy. Furthermore, infusion of ADM2 antagonist in pregnant rats causes fetoplacental growth restriction. The objective of this study was to analyze the expression and possible role of ADM2 in human placenta. We show that ADM2 mRNA is expressed in human placenta and that immunoreactive ADM2 is localized in syncytiotrophoblasts, cytotrophoblasts, and endothelial cells throughout human pregnancy. This study also demonstrates that ADM2 enhances the invasion and migration of first-trimester HTR-8SV/neo cells. ADM2 increases the invasive index of HTR-8SV/neo cells by 2.2-fold compared with controls. Taken together, the findings from this study suggest that ADM2 may have a role in the physiology of human pregnancy via regulation of trophoblast invasion and migration.
Anti-proliferative activity of 6-O-acyl-d-allose against the human leukemia MOLT-4F cell line

The anti-proliferative activities of the 6-O-acyl derivatives of d-allose against the human leukemia MOLT-4F cell line were examined. The activity of the 6-O-dodecanoyl derivative (3) was approximately 30 times stronger than that of d-allose. An evaluation of the derivatives of 3 that occurred in a furanose form revealed the pyranose forms of 3 to be important for the anti-proliferative activity.
Comparison of cimetidine with new H2-antagonists in rabbit and guniea pig gastric cells

We compared the effect of three relatively new H2-antagonists (compounds L-643,411, BL-6341A and SK&F 93479) to cimetidine in two preparations of mucosal cells isolated from rabbit and guinea pig stomachs. The indices for the histamine-stimulated acid secretory response were the changes in [14C]aminopyrine uptake in the rabbit and in cellular cyclic AMP, in the guinea pig. Both functions were mediated by the histamine H2-receptors and hence, can be used to examine antagonist-receptor interaction in vitro. In both rabbit and guinea pig, the new antagonists were highly potent competitive inhibitors of histamine on the H2-receptor, 30- to 200-fold more potent than cimetidine. The Ki values for cimetidine (500-800 nM) and L-643,411 (6-12 nM) were the same in the two animal species, but those for SK&F 93479 and BL-6431A were significantly lower in rabbit than in guinea pig cells. In inhibiting the changes in [14C]aminopyrine uptake in rabbit cells the Ki values for SK&F 93479 and BL-6341A were 2.4-3.5 nM whereas on cyclic AMP in guinea pig cells they were 10-fold higher (25-30 nM). These differences may reflect the structural requirements of the H2-receptors in that in rabbit these antagonists possess higher affinity for the H2-receptors than in guinea pig, or alternatively, uptake or metabolism of histamine by rabbit gastric cells may be responsible for these differences. Furthermore, these preparations appeared to be satisfactory for in vitro assay of gastric acid secretion to test for competitiveness of new H2-receptor antagonists.
Fenfluramine: long-term reduction in brain serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine).

A single oral dose of 15 mg/kg of fenfluramine reduced the level of serotonin in rat brain to 48, 51 and 63% of control at 1, 15 and 30 days, respectively, after administration. 3 mg/kg p.o. of the drug caused a smaller but significant diminution in brain serotonin. At the 3 mg/kg dose level, the decreases in serotonin were, at least partially, cumulative following multiple injections spaced 24 hr apart. Brains removed 14 days after the 5th daily injection of 5 mg/kg p.o. of fenfluramine had only 60% of the concentration of serotonin found in brains from control animals. These findings demonstrate that fenfluramine has a long-lasting action on serotonin-containing neurons in brain.
Determination of Energy Barriers for Intermolecular Interactions by Variable Temperature Dynamic Force Spectroscopy

Intermolecular interactions in chemistry and biology are governed by complex potential energy surfaces. Despite recent advances in nanoscale interaction force measurements, determination of the potential energy barriers remains difficult. We present a simple force microscopy technique that can extract tip−sample interaction potential depth and width from the pull-off force measurements. We show that determination of the thermodynamic parameters for the interaction requires measuring the pull-off force as a function of the loading rate and temperature. We apply this variable-temperature dynamic force spectroscopy technique to determine thermodynamic parameters for the interactions between a silicon nitride tip and a mica surface and for the interactions of tip and surface terminated with carboxylic acid functionalities in ethanol. For both cases, we observed that pull-off force increases logarithmically as a function of loading speed, with the rate of the increase determined by the width of the interaction...
Lumbar artery pseudoaneurysm in traumatic spinal cord injury: a case report.

Lumbar artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare vascular complication of trauma. This case report concerns a 24-year-old man with a lumbar-level spinal cord injury (SCI) secondary to a gunshot wound who developed severe exacerbation of low back and flank pain during inpatient rehabilitation. Diagnostic investigations at an acute care hospital revealed a left lumbar artery pseudoaneurysm. This was treated by transcatheter embolization, which resulted in a marked reduction in pain. The patient resumed inpatient rehabilitation without further complications. This case report highlights the importance of early diagnosis of lumbar artery pseudoaneurysm, a potentially fatal complication that can occur in patients with traumatic lumbosacral SCI. Physiatrists should include lumbar artery pseudoaneurysm in the differential diagnosis for back, flank, or abdominal pain in this patient population.
Breast involvement in acute lymphatic leukemia. Daunorubicine-induced remission; pneumocystis carinii pneumonia.

A 15-year-old girl had involvement of both breasts with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Treatment with the combined therapy of daunorubicine, vincristine, and prednisone produced a sustained complete remission of the leukemia. Mammograms demonstrated the concomitant clinical improvement of the breasts. Death was due to pneumocystis carinii pneumonia.
Large-scale Sequencing and Assembly of Cereal Genomes Using Blacklight

Wheat, corn, and rice provide 60 percent of the world's food intake every day, and just 15 plant species make up 90 percent of the world's food intake. As such there is tremendous agricultural and scientific interest to sequence and study plant genomes, especially to develop a reference sequence to direct plant breeding or to identify functional elements. DNA sequencing technologies can now generate sequence data for large genomes at low cost, however, it remains a substantial computational challenge to assemble the short sequencing reads into their complete genome sequences. Even one of the simpler ancestral species of wheat, Aegilops tauschii, has a genome size of 4.36 gigabasepairs (Gbp), nearly fifty percent larger than the human genome. Assembling a genome this size requires computational resources, especially RAM to store the large assembly graph, out of reach for most institutions. In this paper, we describe a collaborative effort between Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center to assemble large, complex cereal genomes starting with Ae. tauschii, using the XSEDE shared memory supercomputer Blacklight. We expect these experiences using Blacklight to provide a case study and computational protocol for other genomics communities to leverage this or similar resources for assembly of other significant genomes of interest.
Hypotension associated with advanced Hodgkin lymphoma

Hypotension is an extremely rare manifestation of Hodgkin lymphoma. We report the case of a patient who presented with new onset hypotension and was diagnosed with urosepsis and septic shock requiring pressor support for maintaining his blood pressure. computed tomography (CT) scan of abdomen showed liver lesions, which were new on comparison with a CT abdomen done 3 weeks back. Biopsy of the liver lesions and subsequently a bone marrow biopsy showed large atypical Reed-Sternberg cells, positive for CD15 and CD 30 and negative for CD45, CD3 and CD20 on immuno-histochemical staining, hence establishing the diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma. The mechanism involved in Hodgkin lymphoma causing hypotension remains anecdotal, but since it is mostly seen in patients with advanced Hodgkin lymphoma, it is hypothetically related to a complex interaction between cytokines and mediators of vasodilatation. Here we review relevant literature pertaining to presentation and pathogenesis of this elusive and rare association.