cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bounds on the Wilson Dirac operator

New exact upper and lower bounds are derived on the spectrum of the square of the Hermitian Wilson Dirac operator. It is hoped that the derivations and the results will be of help in the search for ways to reduce the cost of simulations using the overlap Dirac operator. The bounds also apply to the Wilson Dirac operator in odd dimensions and are therefore relevant to domain-wall fermions as well. (c) 2000 The American Physical Society.
Instabilities in the optimal regularization parameter relating to image recovery problems

The reconstruction of an object from an image formed by an idealized optical system is considered. The problem is well known to be ill posed, and so Tikhonov regularization is applied. An ensemble of additive Gaussian noise vectors at several signal-to-noise ratios is used to exhibit variations in the optimal Tikhonov regularization parameter. It is shown that the abrupt and rapid decrease in the magnitude of the eigenvalues of the imaging kernels causes instability in the optimal regularization parameter. This instability dramatically affects the generalized cross-validation estimator for the optimal regularization parameter.
Program assessment tools in computer science: a report from the trenches

In this paper, we investigate the question of what assessment tools are being used in practice by United States computing programs and what the faculty doing the assessment think of the tools and of the assessment process in general. We report on the results of two surveys, distributed to the SIGCSE mailing list and to the chairs of all ABET-CAC accredited computer science programs. We found that both parts of these surveys--the multiple-choice sections and the comments--provided some interesting insights into program assessment from the perspective of those responsible for collecting and using the information.
Chinese medicinal herbs modulate mutagenesis, DNA binding and metabolism of aflatoxin B1.

Abstract Oldenlandia diffusa (OD) and Scutellaria barbata (SB) have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating liver, lung and rectal tumors while Astragalus membranaceus (AM) and Ligustrum lucidum (LL) are often used as an adjunct in cancer therapy. In this study, we determined the effects of aqueous extracts of these four herbs on aflatoxin B1 (AFB1-induced mutagenesis using Salmonella typhimurium TA100 as the bacterial tester strain and rat liver 9000 × g supernatant as the activation system. The effects of these herbs on [3H]AFB1 binding to calf-thymus DNA were assessed. Organosoluble and water-soluble metabolites of AFB1, were extracted and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Mutagenesis assays revealed that all of these herbs produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of histidine-independent revertant (His+ colonies induced by AFB1. At a concentration of 1.5 mg/plate, SB and OD in combination exhibited an additive effect. The trend of inhibition of these four herbs on AFB1-induced mutagenesis was: SB > LL > OD > AM. LL, OD and SB significantly inhibited AFB1 binding to DNA, reduced AFB1-DNA adduct formation, and also significantly decreased the formation of organosoluble metabolites of AFB1. Our data suggest that these Chinese medicinal herbs possess cancer chemopreventive properties.
Adsorption of tyrocidine b hydrochloride on monomolecular layers of long chain fatty acids

Abstract The kinetics of adsorption from a solution of a cyclic decapeptide, tyrocidine B, onto 5 monolayers of barium salts of fatty acids transferred by the Blodgett-Langmuir method on metallized glass slides are described. The adsorption of tyrocidine begins only after a certain critical temperature is reached, which depends linearly on the number of carbon atoms in the fatty acids. The dependence of the adsorption rate at a given temperature on the square root of time indicates that the reaction is diffusion controlled. The activation for the adsorption process involves 10 fatty acid molecules for each tyrocidine molecule adsorbed. The activation energies found are comparable with those obtained by La Mer for the diffusion of water across monolayers of fatty acids. An attempt to account for the specific attraction between fatty acid layers and tyrocidine molecules on the basis of generalized van der Waals' (or Lifshitz) and electrostatic forces is presented.
Production systems engineering: main results and recommendations for management

Production Systems Engineering (PSE) is an emerging branch of engineering intended to investigate the fundamental laws that govern production systems and utilise them for analysis, design, and continuous improvement. In this paper, the main results of PSE are overviewed in a format directed at practitioners, and recommendations for management are provided. In addition, PSE Toolbox, which enables applications, is described.
Matrix-isolated polycarbon molecules

Abstract A brief review is given of the spectroscopic data on C2, C+2, C−2, C3, …., C10 derived from matrix isolation studies.
Profound loss of T-cell receptor repertoire complexity in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a malignancy of skin-homing T cells. A major feature of CTCL is profound immunosuppression, such that patients with advanced mycosis fungoides or Sezary syndrome have been compared with patients with advanced HIV disease and are susceptible to opportunistic infection. The etiology of this immunosuppression is unclear. We analyzed peripheral blood T cells of patients with CTCL with stage I to IV disease, using a sensitive beta-variable complementarity-determining region 3 spectratyping approach. Our data revealed a profound disruption of the complexity of the T-cell repertoire, which was universally observed in patients with advanced disease (stages III and IV), and present in up to 50% of patients with early-stage disease (stages I and II). In most patients, multiple monoclonal and oligoclonal complementarity-determining region 3 (CDR3) spectratype patterns in many different beta-variable families were seen. Equally striking was a reduction of normal T cells (as judged by absolute CD4 counts) across multiple beta-variable families. In general, CTCL spectratypes were reminiscent of advanced HIV spectratypes published elsewhere. Taken together, these data are most consistent with a global assault on the T-cell repertoire in patients with CTCL, a process that can be observed even in early-stage disease. (Blood. 2003;102:4059-4066)
Influence of specimen frame on sound transmission loss measurement

Abstract Increased sound transmission through several wall specimens as a result of interaction with the specimen mounting frame is described. The effect of the frame is reduced by shielding it from the sound fields.
The impacts of multiple rest-break periods on commercial truck driver's crash risk.

Abstract Introduction Driver fatigue has been a major contributing factor to fatal commercial truck crashes, which accounted for about 10% of all fatal motor vehicle crashes that happened between 2009 and 2011. Commercial truck drivers' safety performance can deteriorate easily due to fatigue caused by long driving hours and irregular working schedules. To ensure safety, truck drivers often use off-duty time and short rest breaks during a trip to recover from fatigue. Method This study thoroughly investigates the impacts of off-duty time prior to a trip and short rest breaks on commercial truck safety by using Cox proportional hazards model and Andersen–Gill model. Results It is found that increasing total rest-break duration can consistently reduce fatigue-related crash risk. Similarly, taking more rest breaks can help to reduce crash risk. The results suggest that two rest breaks are generally considered enough for a 10-hour trip, as three or more rest breaks may not further reduce crash risk substantially. Also, the length of each rest break does not need to be very long and 30 min is usually adequate. In addition, this study investigates the safety impacts of when to take rest breaks. It is found that taking rest breaks too soon after a trip starts will cause the rest breaks to be less effective. Practical applications The findings of this research can help policy makers and trucking companies better understand the impacts of multiple rest-break periods and develop more effective rules to improve the safety of truck drivers.
Political Ideology and Economic Progress: The Basic Question

In the underdeveloped countries—where live most of the world's people—the hope for economic progress now flames with great intensity. The new international capital facilities of the postwar period, the new programs for sharing modern science and technology, the new interest of wealthy lands in progress in the poor countries—all these present the latter with an opportunity to be rid of the poverty and squalor of their material existence. Their eyes naturally turn to the more developed countries for capital and technical knowledge, and for ideas.
Effectiveness of Work Injury Prevention Education and Safety Training by an Occupational Therapist

Limiting or eliminating work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) is a goal of many employers. Understanding risk factors associated with WRMSDs assists workers in avoiding these factors. The purposes of this study were to determine employees' awareness of risk factors of WRMSDs and their knowledge for avoiding such risks and to evaluate the effectiveness of injury prevention of WRMSD education by an occupational therapist.Sixty-one employees (both supervisors and employees) at a university animal research laboratory participated. They were given a pre-test survey before the injury prevention education. They were next provided with an hour's training and then given a post-test survey.There was statistical significance with four of the five items on the test instrument when comparing the pre-test and the post-test results. This demonstrates knowledge gained from the training. The conclusion supported injury prevention training from an occupational therapist on risk factors associated with WRMSDs and ...
Attachment‐style differences in intimacy and involvement: A test of the four‐category model

This study tested the hypothesis that individuals with different attachment styles vary in the degree to which they display intimacy and nonverbal involvement to their romantic partners. Eighty dyads currently involved in enduring romantic relationships participated in an observational study, with one partner from each dyad representing one of Bartholomew's (1990) four attachment styles. A team of coders viewed videotapes of the dyads' conversations and rated the degree of intimacy and involvement exhibited. Preoccupieds and Secures surpassed Dismissives and Fearful Avoidants on measures of trust/receptivity, gaze, facial pleasantness, vocal pleasantness, general interest, and attentiveness. Preoccupieds engaged in more in‐depth conversation than Dismissives. Fearful Avoidants sat farthest from their partners and displayed the least fluency and longest response latencies. Finally, Preoccupieds and Fearful Avoidants were the most vocally anxious. These findings, which provide preliminary behavioral validat...
Interference Filters for the VUV (1200–1900 Å)

Description of modified aluminum-dielectric Fabry-Perot interference filters fabricated on a Schroeder evaporation-monitor apparatus (1962) for use at wavelengths below 1700 A. The filters were made for stellar photometers flown in the Wisconsin Experiment on the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory and for use in rocket-borne experiments and laboratory calibration work.
Dynamic reactivities of dextransucrase.

Abstract Dextransucrase, from Streptococcus sanguis ATCC 10558, was immobilized on hydroxylapatite and was “charged” in short pulses with labeled sucrose, as previously described [V. K. Parnaik, G. A. Luzio, D. A. Grahame, S. L. Ditson, and R. M. Mayer (1983) Carbohydr. Res. 121 , 257–268]. The “charged” enzyme has been shown to contain both bound glucose and gluco-oligosaccharides. The reactivity of this form of the enzyme has been studied, and shown to have unexpected behavior. Earlier pulse-chase experiments [ J. F. Robyt, B. K. Kimble, and T. F. Walseth (1979) Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 165 , 634–640; S. L. Ditson and R. M. Mayer (1984) Carbohydr. Res. 126 ,170–175], carried out with high concentrations of unlabeled sucrose in the chase, resulted in a rapid decrease in isotope at the reducing termini of enzyme-bound oligosaccharides. However, in the present work, in which the pulsed enzyme was chased with low concentrations of unlabeled sucrose, we observed an increase in the radioactive reducing termini. The possibility that this was due to the enzymatic hydrolysis of dextran has been ruled out. Data presented demonstrate that the enzyme catalyzes the depolymerization of the bound oligosaccharides. Individual glucosyl residues of the oligosaccharides are transferred to acceptors, such as added maltose to form a trisaccharide, or water to form glucose. Similarly, the glucosyl residues can be transferred to added fructose to form sucrose. The studies also provide evidence that the oligosaccharides are slowly released from the enzyme. The ability of the enzyme to catalyze the reverse of the glucosyl transfer reaction involving acceptors was also examined. It was observed that glucose residues transferred by dextransucrase to an acceptor can also be removed to produce sucrose when fructose is added.
Enrichment of generated murine osteoclasts.

Biochemical and molecular studies of osteoclasts generally require cells in a reasonable degree of purity. The chicken has been extremely useful in this regard, as abundant avian osteoclasts can be generated in vitro entirely from pure populations of marrow macrophage precursors. Propagation of murine osteoclasts is, in contrast, far less efficients, demanding the presence of stromal cells. The aims of this study were to develop a method by which murine osteoclasts generated in culture, can be effectively enriched while maintaining viability and, to explore the mechanisms by which stromal cells promote murine osteoclast generation and survival. We find that 106 fractionated murine marrow cells enriched, for marrow-residing colony-forming units (CFU-cs), yield 3000–4000 tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-expressing multinucleated giant cells when cultured for 12 days with ST-2 stromal cells. These cells are osteoclasts as evidenced by their ability to “pit” bone slices, resorb radiolabeled bone particles, and generate cyclic AMP in response to calcitonin. Treatment of these generated osteoclast cultures with bacterial collagenase for 2 hours at 37° selectively removes virtually all ST-2 cells, yielding a >60% pure population of TRAP and calcitonin receptor-expressing cells, 90% of which are viable. These cells continue to respond to calcitonin and survive for 24 hours in the absence of ST-2 cells. We also found that murine osteoclast generation depends upon contact of osteoclast precursors with viable ST-2 cells. Furthermore, the stromal cells secrete macrophage colony-stimulating factor (CSF-1), and the anti-CSF-1 antibody 5A1 inhibits murine osteoclastogenesis. Exogenous CSF-1, in turn, partially overrides the anti-osteoclastogenic effect of 5A1. We conclude that (1) the purity of murine osteoclasts generated from bone marrow cells enriched for CFU-cs can be greatly enhanced by selective removal of associated stromal cells, and (2) both soluble and membraneresiding stromal cell factors are necessary for generation of murine osteoclasts.
Study on ice cloud optical thickness retrieval with MODIS IR spectral bands

The operational Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) products for cloud properties such as cloud-top pressure (CTP), effective cloud amount (ECA), cloud particle size (CPS), cloud optical thickness (COT), and cloud phase (CP) have been available for users globally. An approach to retrieve COT is investigated using MODIS infrared (IR) window spectral bands (8.5 mm, 11mm, and 12 mm). The COT retrieval from MODIS IR bands has the potential to provide microphysical properties with high spatial resolution during night. The results are compared with those from operational MODIS products derived from the visible (VIS) and near-infrared (NIR) bands during day. Sensitivity of COT to MODIS spectral brightness temperature (BT) and BT difference (BTD) values is studied. A look-up table is created from the cloudy radiative transfer model accounting for the cloud absorption and scattering for the cloud microphysical property retrieval. The potential applications and limitations are also discussed. This algorithm can be applied to the future imager systems such as Visible/Infrared Imager/Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) and Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) on the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES)-R.
A relation between Holstein's photon escape transmission factor and the equivalent width.

Abstract It is shown that the photon escape transmission factor for a spectrum line in a homogeneous gas, defined by Holstein in his study of the imprisonment of resonance radiation, is a useful derivative of the equivalent width or total absorption of the line.
Examining the Role of Gender Studies in the Teaching of Talmudic Literature

This article examines the application of a recent interpretive trend in the field of gender studies to the study of Talmudic texts as well as its potential role in the teaching of Talmudic literature. It explores what kind of contribution we can make to our students' education in seminaries and Jewish Day schools when we open our texts up to theories of interpretation drawn from the academy. As a theory that views women as “literary devices” rather than as “real” women who convey something about the status of women in antiquity, this method raises the question of what our students stand to gain from this type of feminist inquiry.
An Ia-positive mouse T-cell clone is functional in presenting antigen to other T cells

In this report we present data demonstrating the endogenous expression of I-region associated (Ia) antigens on a cloned line of mouse T cells, CTLL, as well as transcription of the invariant chain gene in these cells. We demonstrate further that this Ia-bearing T-cell clone, CTLL, can utilize the expressed Ia molecules to present antigen to Ia-restricted antigen-specific T cells.
The role of single-channel cues in synchrony perception: the summed waveform.

Human observers are able to discriminate between simultaneously presented bands of noise having envelopes that are identical (synchronous) rather than statistically independent (asynchronous). The possibility that the detection of envelope synchrony is based on cues available in a single critical band, rather than on a simultaneous comparison of envelopes extracted via independent critical bands, is examined. Two potential single‐channel cues were examined, both relying on the assumption that information present in the envelope of the summed bands is available to the listener. One such single‐channel cue is the rms of the envelope of the summed waveform; the envelope is more deeply modulated for the summed synchronous bands than for the summed asynchronous bands. The second cue examined was envelope regularity; the envelope of the summed synchronous bands has periodic envelope minima, while the summed asynchronous bands exhibit aperiodic envelope minima. Psychophysical results suggest that such within‐channel cues may be both available to, and utilized by, the listener when the component bands are separated by less than 1/3 of an octave.
From Medieval Mnemonics to a Social Construction of Memory : Thoughts on Some Early European Conceptualizations of Memory, Morality, and Consciousness

How did human memory activity, conceived of as an activity that helped bring a person closer to God, become affiliated with early sociological conceptualizations of a social construction of reality? This article explores one way of answering this question by considering some social conceptions of human memory from medieval times to modernity. In the Middle Ages, a good memory was an important characteristic of the most esteemed scholars. Rhetoric was enhanced through mnemotechniques. Memory as practiced activity complemented early theological concepts of self-consciousness, or “being”closer to God, and morality and complemented early interpretations of contract law, casuistry, and jurisprudence. These concepts changed when religious belief, educational, and legal systems changed to meet the needs of a modern, capitalistic, and secular society. Capitalism facilitated the development of memory in commodity form, and human memory was claimed from metaphysical discourse as an object of scientific study by sociologists Emile Durkheim and Maurice Halbwachs.
HOW TO HUMANIZE OFFICE AUTOMATION

To overcome the social and economic costs of the current “systems analytic” path of office technology requires only modest attention to the “human side of enterprise”. Well accepted behavioral science guidelines are set forth here for planning, designing, and implementing technological change among office workers.
Effects of strain and serotonergic agents on prepulse inhibition and habituation in mice.

Abstract Neural sensorimotor gating mechanisms prevent the interruption of ongoing information processing routines by ensuing stimuli to permit mental integration and adaptive behavior. Prepulse inhibition (PPI), an operational measure of sensorimotor gating, is now being investigated using murine models to exploit transgenic and “knockout” technology. The present studies were undertaken to evaluate potential murine strain differences in the effects of serotonergic drugs on PPI and habituation. Two strains used most often as a genetic background for transgenic or knockout manipulations, C57BL/6 and 129Sv, and the outbred ICR strain were used. We assessed the effects of the 5-HT1A/1B agonist 5-methoxy-3(1,2,3,6)tetrahydropyridin-4-yl-1H-indole (RU24969), the 5-HT1A agonist 8-hydroxy-2(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT), the 5-HT2A/2C agonist (±)2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine (DOM), and the serotonin releaser (+)3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA) on PPI and habituation of acoustic startle in the three strains. C57BL/6 mice exhibited lower baseline PPI levels than 129Sv and ICR mice, and 129Sv mice habituated less than C57BL/6 and ICR mice. MDMA decreased PPI in C57BL/6 and ICR, but not 129Sv mice, and RU24969 disrupted habituation in C57BL/6 and 129Sv, but not ICR mice. Lastly, RU24969 decreased and 8-OH-DPAT increased PPI across all strains, although qualitative differences were observed. Thus, both baseline and serotonergic drug-induced effects on murine PPI and habituation are strain-dependent.
Shape control of large lightweight mirrors with dielectric elastomer actuation

Space-based astronomy and remote sensing systems would benefit from extremely large aperture mirrors that can permit greater-resolution images. To be cost effective and practical, such optical systems must be lightweight and capable of deployment from highly compacted stowed configurations. Such gossamer mirror structures are likely to be very flexible and therefore present challenges in achieving and maintaining the required optically precise shape. Active control based on dielectric elastomers was evaluated in order to address these challenges. Dielectric elastomers offer potential advantages over other candidate actuation technologies including high elastic strain, low power dissipation, tolerance of the space environment, and ease of commercial fabrication into large sheets. The basic functional element of dielectric elastomer actuation is a thin polymer film coated on both sides by a compliant electrode material. When voltage is applied between electrodes, a compressive force squeezes the film, causing it to expand in area. We have explored both material survivability issues and candidate designs of adaptive structures that incorporate dielectric elastomer actuation. Experimental testing has shown the operation of silicone-based actuator layers over a temperature range of -100 °C to 260 °C, suitable for most earth orbits. Analytical (finite element) and experimental methods suggested that dielectric elastomers can produce the necessary shape change when laminated to the back of a flexible mirror or incorporated into an inflatable mirror. Interferometric measurements verified the ability to effect controllable shape changes less than the wavelength of light. In an alternative design, discrete polymer actuators were shown to be able to control the position of a rigid mirror segment with a sensitivity of 1800 nm/V, suggesting that sub-wavelength position control is feasible. While initial results are promising, numerous technical challenges remain to be addressed, including the development of shape control algorithms, the fabrication of optically smooth reflective coatings, consideration of dynamic effects such as vibration, methods of addressing large-numbers of active areas, and stowability and deployment schemes.
Value of Travel Time Estimation Using Hierarchical Bayesian Mixed Logit Approach: Toll Facilities in New York and New Jersey

This paper investigates the value of travel time (VOTT) of commuters traveling on toll facilities of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) and the New Jersey Turnpike (NJTPK) in a time-of-day pricing system. The methodology proposed to estimate VOTT develops hierarchical Bayesian mixed logit models using travel surveys conducted as part of evaluation studies of PANYNJ and NJTPK facilities. The proposed approach is a novel method for examining commuters' behavior on the basis of flexible model specifications. Empirical results show that travel time, toll, income, and departure time are statistically significant parameters affecting VOTT of commuters on PANYNJ toll facilities. Mean VOTT estimates are found to be about $16.5/h for PANYNJ E-ZPass peak users and about $15.15/h for PANYNJ E-ZPass off-peak users, with standard deviation estimates close to $6.45/h during peak periods and $5.72/h during off-peak hours. Similarly, mean VOTT estimates are found to be around $16.3/h for NJTPK E-ZPass...
A water soluble “picket fence” porphyrin and its isomers

Abstract The water soluble “picket fence” porphyrin, meso -tetra(α,α,α,α- ortho -(N-methyl-isonicotinamidophenyl)) porphyrin, its three rotational isomers, and the corresponding para and meta derivatives were synthesized. The ortho substituted compounds were one-hundred times less basic and less reactive with metal ions than the para or meta isomers. The reduction potentials of the free base porphyrins indicated electronic interaction between the porphyrin ring and the ortho substituent groups in the isonicotinamidophenyl compounds.
Material and Spiritual Conceptions of Development A Framework of Ideal Types

The contemporary world is experiencing a global revival of the public role of religion in shaping modern politics, public policy and social welfare. Correspondingly, a growing group of development ...
Treatment of patients with double unilateral fractures of the mandible.

Purpose To analyze the outcomes of treatment for double unilateral mandibular fracture. Materials and Methods Retrospective chart review of patients who were treated between 1994 and 2004 for 2 mandibular fractures on the same side of the mandible. Data collected involved age, gender, race, cause of fracture, treatment modality, length of follow-up, occlusal relationship at last visit, preoperative and postoperative clinical photographs and radiographs, and incidence and management of complications. Standard descriptive statistics were used. Results From a total of 1,287 mandibular fractures for which charts were available, 31 double unilateral mandibular fractures were treated during a 10-year period, for an occurrence rate of 2.4%. Demographic characteristics of these patients were similar to those of patients in other published studies on mandibular fracture. Fractures involved angle + body (18/31, 58%), condyle + body (11/31, 35%), and condyle + angle (2/31, 6%). Various treatments were provided for these fractures, but open reduction and internal fixation were applied to at least 1 of the fractures. Follow-up ranged from 6 weeks to 5 months (average, 9.6 weeks). Eight patients (8/31, 25.8%) developed complications involving visible gonial flaring; 3 of these also had cross-bite. Conclusion Double unilateral mandibular fracture is a rare event. The difficulty inherent in treating these fractures can be alleviated with the use of proper techniques of open reduction and internal fixation; however, treatment continues to be associated with a high complication rate.
A simple synthesis of 1-(1,3-butadienyl) carbonates and carbamates

Crotonaldehyde and its congeners are conveniently and often stereospecifically converted to trans-1-(1,3-butadienyl) carbonates and carbamates by treatment first with potassium tert-butoxide and then with a chloroformate or carbamyl chloride.
An Optical Technique For Measurement/Target Probability Assignments

An important step in multitarget tracking (MTT) is the assignment of measurement/target pairing probabilities, i.e., the probability that a certain measurement is associated with a particular target. This is one of the more computationally intensive steps of the Joint Probabilistic Data Association (JPDA) and other MTT algorithms. Determining such assignment probabilities in the conventional JPDA algorithm involves the generation and analysis of all possible binary feasibility matrices, where each feasibility matrix represents the feasible event that each measurement is due to only one target (or clutter) and that each target causes at most one measurement. We discuss a new and most efficient technique for obtaining the measurement/target pairing probabilities directly (without first producing the feasibility matrices) and its implementation on a new analog optical computer.
LEARNING STRUCTURED VISUAL DETECTORS FROM USER INPUT AT MULTIPLE LEVELS

In this paper, we propose a new framework for the dynamic construction of structured visual object/scene detectors for content-based retrieval. In the Visual Apprentice, a user defines visual object/scene models via a multiple-level Definition Hierarchy: a scene consists of objects, which consist of object-parts, which consist of perceptual-areas, which consist of regions. The user trains the system by providing example images/videos and labeling components according to the hierarchy she defines (e.g., image of two people shaking hands contains two faces and a handshake). As the user trains the system, visual features (e.g., color, texture, motion, etc.) are extracted from each example provided, for each node of the hierarchy (defined by the user). Various machine learning algorithms are then applied to the training data, at each node, to learn classifiers. The best classifiers and features are then automatically selected for each node (using cross-validation on the training data). The process yields a Visual Object/Scene Detector (e.g., for a handshake), which consists of an hierarchy of classifiers as it was defined by the user. The Visual Detector classifies new images/videos by first automatically segmenting them, and applying the classifiers according to the hierarchy: regions are classified first, followed by the classification of perceptual-areas, object-parts and objects. We discuss how the concept of Recurrent Visual Semantics can be used to identify domains in which learning techniques such as the one presented can be applied. We then present experimental results using several hierarchies for classifying images and video shots (e.g., Baseball video, images that contain handhakes, skies, etc.). These results, which show good performance, demonstrate the feasibility and usefulness of dynamic approaches for constructing structured visual object/scene detectors from user input at multiple levels.
Analyses of cytogenetic damage in rodents following exposure to simulated groundwater contaminated with pesticides and a fertilizer

Male Fischer 344 rats and female B6C3F1 mice were each exposed through their drinking water to a mixture of pesticides and ammonium nitrate that simulated contaminated groundwater in California (California Chemical Mixture [CCM]). Exposures were for 71 or 91 days, respectively. In addition, B6C3F1 female mice were exposed for 91 days to another pesticide and ammonium nitrate mixture (Iowa Chemical Mixture [ICM]) through their drinking water. The spleens were removed from the animals, and the splenocytes were cultured for analyses of sister-chromatid exchange (SCE), chromosome aberrations (CA), and micronuclei (MN) in cytochalasin B-induced binucleate cells. A concentration-related increase in SCEs was found in the splenocytes of the rat at the 1x, 10x and 100x levels of the CCM and at the 100x concentration of the CCM in the mouse. There were no other consistent cytogenetic effects observed with the CCM, and no statistically significant cytogenetic damage was observed in mice exposed to the ICM. Evidence from the literature is discussed in order to infer which chemical or chemicals in the CCM might be responsible for the observed SCE response.
How accessible is the process of web interface design

This paper describes a data gathering study, examining the experiences and day-to-day challenges faced by blind web interface developers when designing sites and online applications. Findings have revealed that considerable amounts of time and cognitive effort can be spent checking code in text editing software and examining the content presented via the web browser. Participants highlighted the burden experienced from committing large sections of code to memory, and the restrictions associated with assistive technologies when performing collaborative tasks with sighted developers and clients. Our future work aims to focus on the development of a multimodal web editing and browsing solution, designed to support both blind and sighted parties during the design process.
Using the Case Method to Introduce Information Skill Development in the MBA Curriculum

Effective use of information is a key component of the manager's job. In a business environment burdened by information overload, the question for MBA programs is how to provide instruction so their graduates have the necessary foundations in this skill. Business managers use information during the decision-making process, so students need to learn about and build the capabilities to use information effectively. Many information professionals at business schools have been investigating ways to effectively impart these skills. The instruction described, using the case method and coteaching with a faculty member to introduce information skill development, adds to this work.
Single proton energies in the Si isotopes and the Z = 14 subshell closure

The evidence on single proton energies in the Si isotopes is traced from $N=12$ to $N=28$ using available experimental data on binding energies, single proton transfer reactions, radioactive decay, and direct reaction studies with neutron-rich exotic beams. In addition to demonstrating the value of having information on single particle energies over a long sequence of isotopes, the data point out a significant discrepancy between theoretical and experimental results on the size of the $Z=14$ subshell closure in $^{34}\mathrm{Si}$, which is located on the boundary of the island of inversion.
Attending to original object location facilitates visual memory retrieval

It has long been known that attention plays a critical role in the transfer of perceptual information into memory. The present study examined whether attention plays a complementary role in the retrieval of visual information from memory. Specifically, we tested the hypothesis that visual object representations are bound to scene locations in memory, and that attending to an object’s location facilitates the retrieval of object information bound to that location (Hollingworth & Henderson, 2002).
The ‘conscious pilot’ dendritic synchrony moves through the brain (like a computer worm) to mediate consciousness

The brain is viewed as a computer in which sensory processing, control of behavior and other cognitive functions emerge from ‘neurocomputation’ in parallel networks of perceptron-like neurons. In each neuron, dendrites receive and integrate synaptic inputs to a threshold for axonal firing as output — ‘integrate-and-fire’. Neurocomputation in axonal-dendritic synaptic networks successfully accounts for non-conscious (auto-pilot) cognitive brain functions. When cognitive functions are accompanied by consciousness, neurocomputation is accompanied by 30 to 90 Hz gamma synchrony EEG. Gamma synchrony derives primarily from neuronal groups linked by dendritic-dendritic gap junctions, forming transient syncytia (‘dendritic webs’) in input/integration layers oriented sideways to axonal-dendritic neurocomputational flow. As gap junctions open and close, a gamma-synchronized dendritic web can rapidly change topology, evolve and move through the brain (like a benevolent computer worm might move through computer circuits) as a spatiotemporal envelope performing collective integration and volitional choices correlating with consciousness. The ‘conscious pilot’ is a metaphorical description for a mobile, gamma-synchronized dendritic web as vehicle for a conscious agent/pilot which experiences and assumes control of otherwise non-conscious auto-pilot neurocomputation. Simulations will be shown and computer science applications of a self-organizing mobile agent moving through input/integration layers of computational networks will be discussed.
The complexity of two-player games of incomplete information

Abstract Two-player games of incomplete information have certain portions of positions which are private to each player and cannot be viewed by the opponent. Asymptotically optimal decision algorithms for space bounded games are provided. Various games of incomplete information are presented which are shown to be universal in the sense that they are the hardest of all reasonable games of incomplete information. The problem of determining the outcome of these universal games from a given initial position is shown to be complete in doubly exponential time. “Private alternating Turing machines” are defined to be a new type of alternating Turing machines related to games of incomplete information. The space complexity S(n) of these machines is characterized in terms of the complexity of deterministic Turing machines, with time bounds doubly exponential in S(n) . Blindfold games are restricted games in that the second player is not allowed to modify the common position. Asymptotically optimal decision algorithms for space bounded blindfold games are provided. Various blindfold games are also shown to have exponential space complete outcome problems and to be universal for reasonable blindfold games. “Blind alternating Turing machines” are defined to be private alternating Turing machines with restrictions similar to those in blindfold games. The space complexity of these machines is characterized in terms of the complexity of deterministic Turing machines with a single exponential increase in space bounds.
The nature of the primer for glycogen synthesis in muscle

Abstract We and others have reported that glycogenin, the covalently bound protein found in muscle glycogen, also exists in muscle in a glycogen-free form (Mr, 38 000–39 000) that is autocatalytic, undergoes self-glucosylation and acts as a primer for glycogen synthesis. We now report that this entity is not present in a fresh muscle extract. Instead it exists within a pro form of much higher molecular mass which breaks down spontaneously to the Mr, 38 000–39 000 form. Such breakdown is accelerated by the addition of α-amylase and is prevented by protease inhibitors. Multiple intermediates of the breakdown process have been detected, each capable of undergoing glucosylation.
It's a Small World … Looking from a Different Perspective

Title: It's a Small World . Description: This humble photograph of a simple mold, on second inspection, is reminiscent of an Old World map. Tiny …
Graphitic Petal Micro‐Supercapacitor Electrodes for Ultra‐High Power Density

High-power micro-supercapacitors based on micrometers-thick graphitic petal electrodes have been designed and fabricated. The electrodes were prepared by using microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition and patterned by optical lithography and reactive ion etching. Charge/discharge rates up to 100 000 mV s−1 (1000 times faster than conventional supercapacitors) have been achieved in 1 M H2SO4 aqueous electrolyte. After electrochemical oxidization treatment in 1 M H2SO4 solution at room temperature, a volumetric capacitance of 270 F cm−3 (with an area-normalized capacitance of 108 mF cm−2) was observed at a scan rate of 20 mV s−1 while maintaining high charge/discharge rates. The electrochemically treated microdevices exhibit energy densities in the range of 0.8 to 10 mWh cm−3, power densities in the range of 0.6 to 235 W cm−3, a theoretical maximum power density of 292 W cm−3 at a current of 100 μA, and good cycling stability.
Diabetics and Health Care in a Sioux Community

Native American populations are increasingly being confronted with higher prevalence rates of chronic conditions, sometimes referred to as "diseases of modernization," such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. Diabetes mellitus (Type II) has emerged during the past four decades as a major health concern. Compliance with diabetic therapeutic regimens is difficult for all diabetics (cf. Eckerling and Kohrs 1984). In Native American communities, it is important for non-Native American health workers to obtain an understanding of the social traditions and cultural meanings of behaviors that will be affected by therapeutic regimens. This paper examines perceptions of diabetes and prescribed therapeutic regimens by diabetics and their families in a Sioux community. Views on foods, diet, and the dietary change that has occurred over the past century and a half may help explain patients' acknowledged low compliance with diabetic diets. A distinction is made between "way back" foods and...
Designing bistable [2]rotaxanes for molecular electronic devices

The development of molecular electronic components has been accelerated by the promise of increased circuit densities and reduced power consumption. Bistable rotaxanes have been assembled into nanowire crossbar devices, where they may be switched between low- and high-conductivity states, forming the basis for a molecular memory. These memory devices have been scaled to densities of 10 11 bits cm K2 , the 2020 node for memory of the International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors. Investigations of the kinetics and thermodynamics associated with the electromechanical switching processes of several bistable [2]rotaxane derivatives in solution, self-assembled monolayers on gold, polymer electrolyte gels and in molecular switch tunnel junction devices are consistent with a single, universal switching mechanism whose speed is dependent largely on the environment, as well as on the structure of the switching molecule. X-ray reflectometry studies of the bistable rotaxanes assembled into Langmuir monolayers also lend support to an oxidatively driven mechanical switching process. Structural information obtained from Fourier transform reflection absorption infrared spectroscopy of rotaxane monolayers taken before and after evaporation of a Ti top electrode confirmed that the functionality responsible for switching is not affected by the metal deposition process. All the considerable experimental data, taken together with detailed computational work, support the hypothesis that the tunnelling current hysteresis, which forms the basis of memory operation, is a direct result of the electromechanical switching of the bistable rotaxanes.
Efficacy of Epstein-Barr virus removal by leukoreduction of red blood cells.

BACKGROUND: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection results in life-long carriage of latent virus in B lymphocytes in the majority of the adult population, including blood donors. The removal of EBV from red blood cell (RBC) components by leukoreduction was assessed. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Sixteen randomly selected fresh AS-5 units were leukoreduced by filtration. B lymphocytes from preleukoreduction specimens and mononuclear cells (MNCs) from postleukoreduction specimens were assayed for EBV DNA with sensitive real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS: EBV genomes were detected in CD19+ B cells in 14 of 16 preleukoreduced RBC units. EBV genomic copy number in the units ranged from 0.18 to 96.84 per 105 B lymphocytes representing approximately 135 to 72,630 total EBV genomes per bag. Leukoreduction rendered all but one unit EBV-negative by PCR. The lone PCR-positive unit after leukoreduction amplified 1.2 EBV genome copies from MNCs recovered from the entire unit of leukoreduced RBCs; this unit had the highest EBV viral load before leukoreduction (72,630 EBV genomes). CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that a 4-log reduction of EBV genomic copy number can be achieved with leukoreduction of RBC units and renders most RBC units EBV-negative by sensitive PCR.
Effects of Certain Prenatal Drugs on the Fetus and Newborn

1. Robert J. Boyle, MD* 1. *Professor of Pediatrics, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA. After completing this article, readers should be able to: 1. Describe the short- and long-term effects of moderate-to-severe alcohol use in pregnancy. 2. List the risks and long-term effects of smoking relative to pulmonary disease, sudden infant death syndrome, and infant intelligence. 3. Characterize the range of anomalies associated with antiepileptic drug use during pregnancy. 4. Describe the risk of Ebstein anomaly following lithium exposure. 5. Describe the effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in the newborn period. Many pregnant women use multiple prescription, over-the-counter, and recreational drugs during their pregnancies. Questions frequently arise from the mother, the mother’s clinician, and the physician caring for the newborn about the potential risks of these agents for the fetus and newborn. Few of these agents have been evaluated prospectively in pregnant women prior to licensure and marketing. Our knowledge of potential risks to the fetus and newborn, therefore, is based on case reports, epidemiologic surveys of exposed individuals, and animal studies. Multiple factors may influence whether a specific drug may affect an individual fetus or newborn and the magnitude of that effect (Table 1). Clearly, not every infant exposed to an individual drug is affected. Likewise, it is important to note that many of these agents are critical to the mother’s health, and discontinuing the drug may place the mother and fetus at higher risk than continuing the drug. The physician also must acknowledge that patients often take medications that were not prescribed specifically for them. These may include over-the-counter medications that the patient does not recall taking, does not understand the active ingredients, or even does not consider a “medication” or “drug.” Or they may be taking medications that they are reluctant to disclose or that were prescribed to another individual. Reluctance to disclose exposures may be especially true of drugs that carry negative social stigmas in …