Abstract: The present invention relates to a high-performance computer vision system and method for measuring the wings deformation of insects with high flapping-frequency, large stroke-amplitude and excellent mobility during free-flight. A geometrical optic unit composed of a polyhedral reflector with four reflection-planes and four planar reflectors is used to image one high-speed CMOS camera to four virtual cameras, combined with double laser-sheet sources, multiple virtual stereo and structured-light sensors are available to observe the free-flight of insect at different viewpoints simultaneously. In addition, an optoelectronic guiding equipment is included to lead the free-flight of insect and trigger the camera to capture the image sequences of insect-flight automatically. The deformation of insect-wings can be reconstructed by the spatial coordinates of wing-edges and the distorted light-lines projected on the surface of wings.

Abstract: Provided are methods of attenuating release of a proinflammatory cytokine from a mammalian cell. Also provided are methods of inhibiting or treating an inflammatory cytokine cascade in a mammal. Further provided are methods of treating a mammal at risk for or undergoing sepsis, septicemia, and/or endotoxic shock. Additionally provided are methods of attenuating NO release from a mammalian cell. Also provided are methods of attenuating NO production in a mammal at risk for, or having, a disorder mediated by excessive NO production.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a high-performance computer vision system and method for measuring the wings deformation of insects with high flapping-frequency, large stroke-amplitude and excellent mobility during free-flight. A geometrical optic unit composed of a polyhedral reflector with four reflection-planes and four planar reflectors is used to image one high-speed CMOS camera to four virtual cameras, combined with double laser-sheet sources, multiple virtual stereo and structured-light sensors are available to observe the free-flight of insect at different viewpoints simultaneously. In addition, an optoelectronic guiding equipment is included to lead the free-flight of insect and trigger the camera to capture the image sequences of insect-flight automatically. The deformation of insect-wings can be reconstructed by the spatial coordinates of wing-edges and the distorted light-lines projected on the surface of wings.

Abstract: A system and method for reducing excess capacity for restaurants and other industries during off-peak hours is provided. Customers or potential customers may bid on gift certificates redeemable at restaurants during a predetermined time. Users may register with the system and provide identification and demographic information which may be used by restaurants for targeted marketing strategies, promotions, and special offers. The system may include a registration module, an auction module, a restaurant guide module, a restaurant manager module, rewards and referral center module, restaurant reservation module, and advertisement displays.

Abstract: A system and method for reducing excess capacity for restaurants and other industries during off-peak hours is provided. Customers or potential customers may bid on gift certificates redeemable at restaurants during a predetermined time. Users may register with the system and provide identification and demographic information which may be used by restaurants for targeted marketing strategies, promotions, and special offers. The system may include a registration module, an auction module, a restaurant guide module, a restaurant manager module, rewards and referral center module, restaurant reservation module, and advertisement displays.