cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of refractive index mismatch on multi-photon direct laser writing

This work reports how the process of three-dimensional multi-photon direct laser writing (mpDLW) is affected when there is a small mismatch in refractive index between the material being patterned and the medium in which the focusing objective is immersed. Suspended-line microstructures were fabricated by mpDLW in the cross-linkable epoxide SU-8 as a function of focus depth and average incident power. It is found that even a small refractive index contrast of Δn = + 0.08 causes significant variation in feature width and height throughout the depth of the material. In particular, both the width and height of features can either increase or decrease with depth, depending upon how much the average incident laser power exceeds the threshold for writing. Vectorial diffraction theory is used to obtain insight into the origin of the effect and how to compensate for it. We demonstrate that varying the average focused power is a practical means for controlling the variation in feature size with focal depth.
Tool Wear Monitoring Using Microphone Signals and Recurrence Quantification Analysis when Drilling Composites

The quality of the hole produced during the drilling of composite materials is one of the controlling factors for the resulting joint strength and integrity of the structural component. Quality of the hole depends on the condition of the cutting tool. Continuous cutting tool condition monitoring method is vital to accomplish the desired hole quality. To address this concern, an online tool condition monitoring technique using a simple audio microphone as a sensor is developed and Recurrence Quantification Analysis (RQA) methodology was used as a signal analysis tool to predict the tool condition in terms of flank wear. A series of experimental drilling operation was carried out on uni-directional carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) composite. It was found that the amplitude of the microphone signal decreases with the increase of the tool flank wear. In addition, from the selected eight RQA output variables, six of them show an increasing trend with the increase of the measured flank wear, whereas, two of them show a decreasing trend with the increase of tool wear. The same trend has been observed in both set of experiments. These results demonstrate that, this novel approach is an effective and economical online tool condition monitoring method.
Structure Based Antibody-Like Peptidomimetics

Biologics such as monoclonal antibodies (mAb) and soluble receptors represent new classes of therapeutic agents for treatment of several diseases. High affinity and high specificity biologics can be utilized for variety of clinical purposes. Monoclonal antibodies have been used as diagnostic agents when coupled with radionuclide, immune modulatory agents or in the treatment of cancers. Among other limitations of using large molecules for therapy the actual cost of biologics has become an issue. There is an effort among chemists and biologists to reduce the size of biologics which includes monoclonal antibodies and receptors without a reduction of biological efficacy. Single chain antibody, camel antibodies, Fv fragments are examples of this type of deconstructive process. Small high-affinity peptides have been identified using phage screening. Our laboratory used a structure-based approach to develop small-size peptidomimetics from the three-dimensional structure of proteins with immunoglobulin folds as exemplified by CD4 and antibodies. Peptides derived either from the receptor or their cognate ligand mimics the functions of the parental macromolecule. These constrained peptides not only provide a platform for developing small molecule drugs, but also provide insight into the atomic features of protein-protein interactions. A general overview of the reduction of monoclonal antibodies to small exocyclic peptide and its prospects as a useful diagnostic and as a drug in the treatment of cancer are discussed.
Context, Character and Consequentialist Friendships

One prevailing objection to consequentialism holds that the consequentialist cannot promote both agent-neutral value and her own personal friendships: the consequentialist cannot be a genuine friend. Several versions of this objection have been advanced, but an even more sophisticated version of the charge is available. However, even this more sophisticated version fails, as it assumes a traditional, context-insensitive, account of character traits. In this article, I develop and defend a novel account of character traits that is context-sensitive and also supports a novel account of what friendship consists in. Application of the more plausible, contextual, account of character traits resolves the debate in favor of the friendly consequentialist.
Sirolimus Monotherapy Versus Sirolimus in Combination with Steroids and/or MMF for Immunosuppression After Liver Transplantation

Calcineurin inhibitor (CI)-associated renal dysfunction has emerged as a major cause of morbidity and mortality after liver transplantation. In this retrospective study, we compared the efficacy, safety, and renal protective effect of sirolimus monotherapy (Group A; n=26) with sirolimus in combination (Group B; n=34) with steroids and/or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in liver transplant recipients who were switched from CI. Patients were switched abruptly or over a period of 2–4 weeks and followed for 17±10 months. Preconversion renal biopsies in five of six patients showed histological features consistent with CI nephrotoxicity. Serum creatinine increased in the year prior to conversion from 1.7±0.4 to 2.1±0.7 mg/dl (P=0.009) and improved thereafter (1 month, 1.7±0.6, P < 0.001; 6 months, 1.6±0.5, P < 0.001; last follow-up, 1.7±0.9, P=0.02); only four patients showed a significant decline in renal function after conversion. Seven (11.3%) patients experienced acute rejection (Group A, two; Group B, five; P=NS) and this resulted in the discontinuation of sirolimus in one patient. Fifty-four adverse events occurred in 40 (67%) patients, with similar numbers of adverse events in Group A and Group B. Most episodes of rejection (5/7; 71%), adverse events (45/54; 83%), and discontinuations (5/8; 63%) occurred within 6 months of conversion. We conclude that both sirolimus monotherapy and sirolimus in combination with prednisone and/or MMF are efficacious and safe in liver transplant recipients. Conversion to sirolimus was associated with an immediate improvement in renal function that was sustained during the follow-up.
Making an Oriental equivalent of the yeast cytosolic aldehyde dehydrogenase as well as making one with positive cooperativity in coenzyme binding by mutations of glutamate 492 and arginine 480.

Abstract Yeast has at least three partially characterized aldehyde dehydrogenases. Previous studies by gene disrupted in our laboratory revealed that the Saccharomyces cerevisiae cytosol ALDH1 played an important role in ethanol metabolism as did the class 2 mitochondrial enzyme. To date, few mutagenesis studies have been performed with the yeast enzymes. An important human variant of ALDH is one found in Asian People. In it, the glutamate at position 487 is replaced by a lysine. This glutamate interacts with an arginine (475) that is located in the subunit that makes up the dimer pair in the tetrameric enzyme. Sequence alignment shows that these two residues are located at positions 492 and 480, respectively, in the yeast class 1 enzyme which shares just 45% sequence identity with the human enzymes. Mutating glutamate 492 to lysine produced an enzyme with altered kinetic properties when compared to the wild-type glutamate-enzyme. The K m for NADP of E492K increased to nearly 3600 μM compare to 40 μM for wild-type enzyme. The specific activity decreased more than 10-fold with respect to the recombinant wild-type yeast enzyme. Moreover, substituting a glutamine for a glutamate was not detrimental in that the E492Q had wild-type-like K m for NADP and V max . These properties were similar to the changes found with the human class 2 E487K mutant form. Further, mutating arginine 480 to glutamine produced an enzyme that exhibited positive cooperativity in NADP binding. The K m for NADP increased 11-fold with a Hill coefficient of 1.6. The NADP-dependent activity of R480Q mutant was 60% of wild-type enzyme. Again, these results are very similar to what we recently showed to occur with the human enzyme [Biochemistry 39 (2000) 5295–5302]. These findings show that the even though the glutamate and arginine residues are not conserved, similar changes occur in both the human and the yeast enzyme when either is mutated.
The effects of certain physical and chemical factors on locomotion and others life‐processes in Amoeba proteus

Amoeba proteus was raised in a modified and diluted Ringer solution. When the pH of this culture medium became less than 6.0, the normal activities of the amoebae were interfered with; and when a still lower pH was attained, the amoebae died off. The same was true when the pH became greater than 8.0. At neutrality the activities were subnormal, very dark, and rounded. The rate of locomotion of amoebae raised in solutions with a pH less than 7.0 showed a maximum rate of locomotion at pH 6.6, which decreased as the pH changed in either direction, dropping to a very low rate at pH 7.0 and above and also below 6.0. For amoebae raised at a pH above 7.0 the rate was maximum at pH 7.6 and decreased as the pH changed in either direction; it was low at pH 7.0 and below and also above 8.0. On increasing the external osmotic pressure of the medium it was found that the effects caused varied somewhat with the hydrogen-ion concentration. Small increases in osmotic pressure decreased the rate from the normal at pH 6.0 and 8.0, increased it at pH 6.6 and 7.6, and did not affect it at pH 7.0. Osmotic pressures above that produced by M/20 lactose caused locomotion to cease in a short time at all pH values.
An SST anomaly dipole in the northern subtropical Pacific and its relationships with ENSO

This study examines the links between tropical and subtropical sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the Pacific Ocean during ENSO (El Nino-Southern Oscillation) events. A long-term simulation by the UCLA coupled atmosphere-ocean general circulation model is used. It is found that a zonally-oriented SST anomaly dipole in the subtropical Pacific develops almost simultaneously with and is closely related to tropical ENSO events. The dipole is located east of the dateline between 20°N and 40°N and consists of an anomaly center off the coast of the North America and another anomaly center with opposite sign further to the west. It is demonstrated that this dipole feature is primarily driven by anomalous surface heat fluxes associated with the altered atmospheric circulation during ENSO events.
Computer Forensics, Search Strategies, and the Particularity Requirement

Assuming that a person subject to a search and seizure of his or her computer has a reasonable expectation of privacy in the contents of the computer, and thus a warrant is required, should the warrant outline a “search strategy”? Or should comprehensive computer searches be permitted? In other words, how should the particularity requirement be applied to computer searches? Correspondingly, what can a forensic examiner do under a warrant while collecting potential evidence from a computer? [...]
Sexual violence and the silent reaction rape: implications for nurses.

Perhaps as few as 1 in 5 women who has been raped has reported the incident to police. Nurses need to know how to screen for a history of sexual violence, provide initial support and refer vulnerable individuals for follow-up support and counseling.
Seed dispersal in Cakile edentula var. lacustris : decoupling the fitness effects of density and distance from the home site.

A factorial design of three densities of siblings at three local distances from seed parents was employed to distinguish effects of density from effects of dispersal distance on lifespan and fruit production of Cakile edentula var. lacustris, a plant with heteromorphic seeds. The segmented fruits produce two seed types: proximal and distal, with distal seeds having greater mass and greater dispersibility. Effects of longer distances (0.5 km and 30 km) on lifespan and fruit production were investigated using plants at low density. The prediction was tested that the greater seed mass of distal seeds increases fitness when seeds are dispersed into sites of unknown quality away from the home site or when seeds are dispersed to low density. High density caused earlier mortality and lower probability of reproduction. Distance from the maternal plant did not influence lifespan or reproduction at distances of 15 m or less, but lifespan was longer 0.5 km from the home site. No interaction was detected between the effects of density and distance on either lifespan or total fitness. Environmental conditions that influence fitness did not vary as a function of dispersal distance in this system, and favorable conditions at the home site did not persist between generations. Therefore, selection on dispersion patterns in natural conditions is likely to be through effects of density rather than dispersal distance. Proximal seeds had greater reproduction than distal seeds at the home site, and distal seeds had greater reproduction at the more distant sites (but not the most distant site), as expected, but these performance differences could not be attributed to differences in mass between the two seed types. Reduced seed mass was favored at the most distant site, but larger seed mass was favored most strongly at low density. Seeds that are dispersed to low density are larger, suggesting that although kin selection may limit the effectiveness of individual selection to increase seed mass under conditions of sibling competition, density-dependent individual selection on seed mass, rather than distant-dependent selection, also contributes to the observed associations among seed type, seed mass and dispersal ability.
Collective Bargaining Context and Worker Attitudes: Comparing Team and Traditional Work Systems

Although research on teams often focuses on firm performance, how these initiatives affect workers and their work-related attitudes has received limited attention. This field study examines seniority, off-line problem-solving, and union participation as institutional arrangements within a collective bargaining context that moderate the relationship between work systems and work-related attitudes. Results indicate a negative relationship between team membership and work-related attitudes for those with greater seniority. A positive relationship between team membership and work-related attitudes exists for those who are more active in their union. Higher organizational commitment occurs in team settings when workers had experience in off-line problem-solving programs.
Optimal Hierarchical Power Scheduling for Cooperative Microgrids

As advances are made in single Microgrid (MG) systems, the problem of cooperation among MGs and the Macrogrid has attracted considerable interest only recently. As in wireless communications systems, exploiting the temporal, spatial, and technological diversities in multiple cooperative MGs could bring about more efficient power generation and distribution. This paper investigates a hierarchical power scheduling approach to optimally manage the power trading, storage and distribution in a smart power grid with a Macrogrid and cooperative MGs. We first present a two-tier formulation: the first-tier problem jointly considers user utility, transmission cost, and grid load variance, while the second-tier problem minimizes the power generation and transmission cost and exploits distributed storage in the MGs. We develop an effective online algorithm to solve the first-tier problem and prove its asymptotic optimality, and develop a distributed optimal algorithm for solving the second-tier problem. The proposed hierarchical power scheduling algorithms are evaluated with trace-driven simulations and are shown to outperform several existing schemes with considerable gains.
Biomedical application of wavelets: analysis of electroencephalograph signals for monitoring depth of anesthesia

The wavelet transform (WT) has been used to study the nonstationary information in the electroencephalograph (EEG) as an aid in determining the anesthetic depth. A complex analytic mother wavelet is utilized to obtain the time evolution of the various spectral components of the EEG signal. The technique is utilized for the detection and spectral analysis of transient and background processes in the awake and asleep states. It can be observed that the response of both states before the application of the stimulus is similar in amplitude but not in spectral contents, which suggests a background activity of the brain. The brain reacts to the external stimulus in two different modes depending on the state of consciousness of the subject. In the case of awake state, there is an evident increase in response, while for the sleep state a reduction in this activity is observed. This analysis seems to suggest that the brain has an ongoing background process that monitors external stimulus in both the sleep and awake states.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Four cysteines of the membrane protein DsbB act in concert to oxidize its substrate DsbA

Protein disulfide bond formation in Escherichia coli is catalyzed by the periplasmic protein DsbA. A cytoplasmic membrane protein DsbB maintains DsbA in the oxidized state by transferring electrons from DsbA to quinones in the respiratory chain. Here we show that DsbB activity can be reconstituted by co-expression of N- and C-terminal fragments of the protein, each containing one of its redox-active disulfide bonds. This system has allowed us (i) to demonstrate that the two DsbB redox centers interact directly through a disulfide bond formed between the two DsbB domains and (ii) to identify the specific cysteine residues involved in this covalent interaction. Moreover, we are able to capture an intermediate in the process of electron transfer from one redox center to the other. These results lead us to propose a model that describes how the cysteines cooperate in the early stages of oxidation of DsbA. DsbB appears to adopt a novel mechanism to oxidize DsbA, using its two pairs of cysteines in a coordinated reaction to accept electrons from the active cysteines in DsbA.
Alkoxide synthesis techniques for BaTiO3

Abstract Several variations of the sol-gel process leading to polycrystalline BaTiO3 formation were explored and compared. Investigations led to the development of a non-air sensitive technique using large alkyl organometallics, a double isopropoxide precursor method of preparation, and to the new discovery of barium-titanium isopropoxide single crystals with a fixed Ba:Ti stoichiometry of [1:1]. All reactions to final product required a T ≤ 750°C.
Periodicities and keel spacings in the under-ice draft distribution of the Canada Basin

Abstract Previous analyses of the under-ice draft in the Canada Basin have shown this area to be relatively homogeneous in thickness and variability. Spectral analysis was applied to 940 kilometers of under-ice thickness data in the Canada Basin as recorded by the USS Queenfish, August 1970. Periodicities in the range of 30–130 m most commonly occurred throughout the track with those in the ranges of 500–540 m and 800–1000 m also common in areas of thicker ice. Significant periodicities showed little variability throughout the Canada Basin thereby supporting the hypothesis of homogeneity. The spacing distributions of independent keels were compared to the theoretical negative exponential and lognormal distributions and were found to be significantly different from the expected frequencies of the negative exponential model, but generally agreed with the lognormal model except for deep-draft keels, where the distributions did not follow either model.
Dynamic field mapping and distortion correction for fMRI

Echo planar images (EPI) suffer from geometric distortions caused by static-field inhomogeneity. Correction techniques have been suggested based on field maps obtained before or after the EPI acquisition. However, when a relatively long time series of images is required, as in fMRI studies, the inhomogeneity varies from image to image because of gross motion and physiological activity such as respiration and cardiac motion. It is not ideal to approximate the varying maps of field inhomogeneity by means of one map. To overcome this limitation, multiple field maps are desirable for correcting the distortions that are dynamically changing. Some groups have explored the possibility of acquiring multiple field maps, but either the increased scan time is not affordable for most fMRI studies or the field map acquisition is embedded in EPI pulse sequence, which produces a map of insufficient resolution to support a complete distortion correction. In this paper, we propose a dynamic field mapping technique that uses a single reference image and a single corresponding acquired field map and the phase information extracted from the complex image data of each EPI image in the time series. From this information, a separate field map is then derived individually for each EPI image. The derived field maps are then used for distortion correction. This approach, which is particularly suitable for fMRI studies, can correct for image distortion that varies dynamically without sacrificing temporal resolution. We validate this technique using simulated data, and the experimental results show improved performance in comparison to correction using a single field map.
Locoregional proton radiotherapy of a primary cavernous sinus non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: case report.

Primary B cell lymphomas of the skull base are uncommon and lack well-defined treatment guidelines. We report a case of diffuse, large B-cell lymphoma of the cavernous sinus with sphenoid sinus and clival extension, treated with partial resection, chemotherapy, and proton beam irradiation. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a skull-base lymphoma treated with protons. A 53-year-old female presented with a two-month history of diplopia, persistent headaches, and paresthesia over the left side of her mouth. A skull MRI revealed an enhancing mass in the right cavernous sinus and right sphenoid sinus. Transsphenoidal subtotal resection of the mass confirmed the presence of a diffuse, large B-cell lymphoma.Treatment consisted of CHOP-R chemotherapy and locoregional radiation with protons. Locoregional radiation of the lesion required moderate doses, below the radiation tolerance of adjacent normal structures. Conformal protons were utilized to minimize the volume of normal brain receiving radiation. ...
Design and Performance of the Stanford Linear Collider Control System

The success of the Stanford Linear Collider (SLC) will be dependent upon the implementation of a very large advanced computer-based instrumentation and control system. This paper describes the architectural design of this system as well as a critique of its performance. This critique is based on experience obtained from its use in the control and monitoring of 1/3 of the SLAC linac and in support of an extensive experimental machine physics experimental program.
Benefits of owner mandated CM/GC contract amendment templates

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore how implementing a standardized/owner-mandated template for Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) contract amendments can minimize errors. The focus is on public owners who manage multiple CM/GC projects at any one time. Design/methodology/approach – A case study format was used to compare contract amendments errors using a baseline project, transition project and best practices project. Six metrics were identified, including factual recital errors, summary formatting errors, schedule of values errors, construction services fee errors, allowance schedule errors and data consistency errors. Findings – The baseline and transition projects both had an average of seven errors per amendment, while the best practices project produced zero errors. The amendment template creation process helped design out common errors. The use of the template can be contract-mandated, while transition projects require owner commitment. Research limitations/implications ...
Kinetics of serotonin uptake by the dog lung is pH independent in the physiological range.

Given the strong pH dependence of platelet serotonin uptake, the many similarities between platelet and pulmonary endothelial serotonin uptake and the potential importance of a pH dependence on the interpretation of changes in pulmonary endothelial serotonin uptake in diseased lungs, we examined the influence of pH on the kinetics of serotonin uptake in isolated dog lung lobes using a multiple indicator technique. A range of pH values from about 7.2 to 8.0 were obtained by ventilating the lobes with gas containing different concentrations of COZ . Over the pH range studied, no significant changes in serotonin uptake were observed, nor were significant changes detected in the kinetic parameters, K,,, and V,,, for the uptake process. The lack of a significant pH effect represents a difference between platelet and lung endothelial serotonin uptake. It also indicates that correlations between Pco2 and serotonin uptake which might occur in diseased lungs do not imply causality.
Temperature fine-structure of Lake Michigan hypolimnion1,2

High-resolution temperature profiles from the hypolimnior of Lake Michigan in June and August 1978 showed the frequent occurrence of intrusive layers of thickness 10 m or less. Anomalously warm layers (ΔT ≲ 0.1°C) seemed to extend horizontally for ≳0.5 km and to persist at one location for day. Since temperatures were above maximum density values, these layers would have been hydrostatically unstable were it not for observed stabilizing gradients of dissolved silica. Interleaving of the layers, shear-induced turbulence, and stirring at the bottom resulted in various small-scale temperature structures. After an intense coastal upwelling event, a bottom layer 5-m thick was observed along the 100-m isobath in which temperatures and silica concentrations were nearly uniform and in which a value of at least 0.1 crn2·s−1 was calculated for the vertical eddy diffusivity.
Comparative exploration of hydrogen sulfide and water transmembrane free energy surfaces via orthogonal space tempering free energy sampling

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a commonly known toxic gas compound, possesses unique chemical features that allow this small solute molecule to quickly diffuse through cell membranes. Taking advantage of the recent orthogonal space tempering (OST) method, we comparatively mapped the transmembrane free energy landscapes of H2S and its structural analogue, water (H2O), seeking to decipher the molecular determinants that govern their drastically different permeabilities. As revealed by our OST sampling results, in contrast to the highly polar water solute, hydrogen sulfide is evidently amphipathic, and thus inside membrane is favorably localized at the interfacial region, that is, the interface between the polar head-group and nonpolar acyl chain regions. Because the membrane binding affinity of H2S is mainly governed by its small hydrophobic moiety and the barrier height inbetween the interfacial region and the membrane center is largely determined by its moderate polarity, the transmembrane free energy barriers to encounter by this toxic molecule are very small. Moreover when H2S diffuses from the bulk solution to the membrane center, the above two effects nearly cancel each other, so as to lead to a negligible free energy difference. This study not only explains why H2S can quickly pass through cell membranes but also provides a practical illustration on how to use the OST free energy sampling method to conveniently analyze complex molecular processes. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A fast posterior update for sparse underdetermined linear models

A Bayesian approach is adopted for linear regression, and a fast algorithm is given for updating posterior probabilities. Emphasis is given to the underdetermined and sparse case, i.e., fewer observations than regression coefficients and the belief that only a few regression coefficients are non-zero. The fast update allows for a low-complexity method of reporting a set of models with high posterior probability and their exact posterior odds. As a byproduct, this Bayesian model averaged approach yields the minimum mean squared error estimate of unknown coefficients. Algorithm complexity is linear in the number of unknown coefficients, the number of observations and the number of nonzero coefficients. For the case in which hyperparameters are unknown, a maximum likelihood estimate is found by a generalized expectation maximization algorithm.
Strike‐induced Chemosensory Searching in the Colubrid Snakes Elaphe g. guttata and Thamnophis sirtalis

Strike-induced chemosensory searching (SICS) occurs in numerous venomous snakes. SICS also occurs in the nonvenomous snakes Elaphe g. guttata and Thamnophis sirtalis. These species elevated tongue-flicking rates more after striking than after exposure to experimental control conditions. Controlled effects were disturbance, visual cues (and possibly noncontact chemical cues), and handling. In another experiment with T. sirtalis, degree of disturbance was controlled. Some snakes received tactile stimulation of the oral mucosa and others similar tactile stimulation plus chemical prey cues. The much greater tongue-flick rate in the condition including prey odors indicates that 1) disturbance alone cannot account for SICS, 2) tactile stimulation of the mouth is unlikely to elicit the full SICS response, and 3) chemical cues may be of paramount importance. SICS may be widespread in nonvenomous snakes and was presumably a preadaptation favoring the strike-release-trail strategy used by many venomous species. The highest tongue-flicking rates in both species occurred after striking. In E. g. guttata an equally high rate followed swallowing. Tongue-flicking rate in T. s. sirtalis decreased after swallowing. Interspecific differences in post-swallowing response by snakes may be related to feeding mode and prey aggregation.
An Economic Assessment of Battery Storage in Electric Utility Systems

The commitment for future electric generating capacity constitutes a major business decision for utility companies. Consideration of a new or emerging technology can increase the uncertainties associated with this decision. Utilities considering battery systems based on an estimated installed cost should be aware of appropriate breakeven costs at which batteries would economically compete with conventional capacity alternatives.
Latent Variable Copula Inference for Bundle Pricing from Retail Transaction Data

Bundle discounts are used by retailers in many industries. Optimal bundle pricing requires learning the joint distribution of consumer valuations for the items in the bundle, that is, how much they are willing to pay for each of the items. We suppose that a retailer has sales transaction data, and the corresponding consumer valuations are latent variables. We develop a statistically consistent and computationally tractable inference procedure for fitting a copula model over correlated valuations, using only sales transaction data for the individual items. Simulations and data experiments demonstrate consistency, scalability, and the importance of incorporating correlations in the joint distribution.
Fluorescence-Based Method Designed for Quantitative Measurement of Fuel Film Thickness during Cold-Start of Engines

The liquid fuel that accumulates in the engine manifold and cylinders during cold start conditions is thought to contribute significantly to excess hydrocarbon emissions. Two fluorescent dopants, cyclohexanone and 2-methyl-cyclopentanone, have been tested for use as fluorescent markers for quantitative two-dimensional (2D) imaging of the thickness of automotive fuel films in the range 0-1 mm. These dopants are co-evaporative with synthetic automotive fuel and have fluorescence that is virtually independent of oxygen concentration equivalent to saturation under 5 atm air at temperatures of 20-200 C. Selection, calibration procedures, and (nonengine) demonstration laser-induced-fluorescence (LIF) imaging experiments are discussed. Index Headings: Fluorescence; Diagnostics; Engines; Liquid films; Cold start.
High-affinity l-arabinose transport operon: Nucleotide sequence and analysis of gene products☆

Abstract The nucleotide sequence of the “high-affinity” l -arabinose transport operon has been determined 3′ from the regulatory region and found to contain three open reading frames designated araF, araG and araH. The first gene 3′ to the regulatory region, araF, encodes the 23-residue signal peptide and the 306-residue mature form of the l -arabinose binding protein (33,200 Mr). The binding protein, which has been described elsewhere, is hydrophilic, soluble and found in the periplasm of Escherichia coli. This gene is followed by an intragenic space of 72 nucleotides, which contains a region of dyad symmetry 23 nucleotides long capable of forming an 11-member stem-loop. The second gene, designated araG, contains an open reading frame capable of encoding an equally hydrophilic protein containing 504 residues (55,000 Mr). Following a 14-nucleotide spacer, which does not appear to have any secondary structure, the third open reading frame, herein designated araH, is capable of encoding a hydrophobic protein containing 329 residues (34,000 Mr) that can only be envisioned as having an integral membrane location. 3′ to araH there is a T-rich region containing a 24-nucleotide area of dyad symmetry centered 55 nucleotides from the termination codon. Analysis of the derived primary sequences of the araG and araH products indicates the nature and potential features of these components. The araG protein was found to possess internal homology between its amino and carboxyl-terminal halves, suggesting a common origin. The araG gene product has been shown to be homologous to the rbsA gene product, the hisP product, the ptsB product and the malK product, all of which presumably play similar roles in their respective transport systems. Putative ATP binding sites are observed within the regions of homology. The araH gene product has been shown to be homologous to the rbsC gene product, which is the first observed homology between two purported membrane proteins.
Gingival Hemorrhage Related to Aspirin Ingestion: A Case Report

A case report illustrating the clinical manifestations of platelet defects induced by ingestion of two aspirin tablets has been presented. The specific effects on platelets produced by aspirin ingestion have been summarized and the resultant hemostatic defect explained.
Addressing Manufacturability and Reliability of MEMS-based WSS

Initial design-in of WSS-based modules posed many uncertainties due to several technology firsts. We discuss key challenges and steps taken to successfully complete qualification and validation and will demonstrate the level of stability achieved.
A fast normal random number generator

A method is presented for generating pseudorandom numbers with a normal distribution. The technique uses the ratio of uniform deviates method discovered by Kinderman and Monahan with an improved set of bounding curves. An optimized quadratic fit reduces the expected number of logarithm evaluations to 0.012 per normal deviate. The method gives a theoretically correct distribution and can be implemented in 15 lines of FORTRAN. Timing and source size comparisons are made with other methods for generating normal deviates. The proposed algorithm compares favorably with some of the better algorithms.
An optically excited microwave ring resonator on a gallium arsenide substrate

An optically excited ring resonator has been fabricated on a GaAs substrate. An optical signal, supplied by a laser diode modulated at microwave frequencies, was focused into a voltage-biased resonator coupling gap to generate carriers from photoconductivity. Results from measurements of the optically generated microwave signal out of the ring resonator revealed resonant peaks at 3.48 GHz, 6.94 GHz, and 10.3 GHz with Q values of 53.5, 75.4, and 103.0, respectively. The output power of the optically driven ring resonator was measured to be -43 dBm at 3.48 GHz, -52 dBm at 6.94 GHz, and -65 dBm at 10.3 GHz. The decrease in output power of the resonator with increasing frequency closely follows the decrease in output power of the modulated laser diode with increasing frequency. >
The Impacts Of The War On Terrorism On Maritime Shipping

The terrorist acts that destroyed the World Trade Center and part of the Pentagon have, of course, changed much of the world in many ways since September 2001. Among those effects has been a pronounced and noticeable shift in airport and aircraft security. Much less noticeable to most Americans has been the impact of added security and changed priorities on maritime transportation systems. But maritime security actually has a far greater impact on commerce than does air security because most cargo moves worldwide via commercial ocean-going vessels. Security requirements and wartime priorities are compelling the world’s governments to more closely monitor and inspect all vessels and cargo entering their nation’s ports. The US Coast Guard’s inspections are forcing tremendous delays upon entering vessels. The consequences of losing millions of dollars daily both for shipping companies and cargo interests create severe economic and logistical problems that impact all transportation modes. The new US embargo on 24 small countries may force them into bankruptcy unless they comply with US requests to end terrorism. These countries depend on exports and imports for a large portion of their GDP, which will be dramatically reduced unless they join the war against terrorism. This paper examines five impacts on the US and world shipping industry caused by the war on terrorism--those on: 1) vessel and port security; 2) transportationand trade-related communications; 3) trade levels; 4) marine insurance; and 5) maritime and related freight rates. Then the authors draw some conclusions regarding possibilities of reflagging of ships and effects on the status of the US merchant marine industry.
Macular morphology and visual acuity in the second year of the comparison of age-related macular degeneration treatments trials

Purpose To describe the association between morphologic features on fundus photography (FP), fluorescein angiography (FA), and optical coherence tomography (OCT) and visual acuity (VA) in the second year of the Comparison of Age-related Macular Degeneration Treatments Trials (CATT). Design Prospective cohort study within a randomized clinical trial. Participants Participants in the CATT. Methods Study eye eligibility required angiographic and OCT evidence of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and VA between 20/25 and 20/320. Treatment was assigned randomly to ranibizumab or bevacizumab with 3 different dosing regimens over a 2-year period. Main Outcome Measures Fluid type, location, and thickness; retina and subretinal tissue complex thickness on OCT; size and lesion composition on FP and FA; and VA. Results Among 1185 CATT participants, 993 (84%) had fluid on OCT at baseline and completed 2 years of follow-up. At 2 years, intraretinal fluid (IRF), subretinal fluid (SRF), sub–retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) fluid, and subretinal tissue complex thickness decreased in all treatment groups. Ranibizumab monthly was best able to resolve each type of fluid. Eyes with SRF in the foveal center on OCT had better mean VA than eyes with no SRF (72.8 vs. 66.6 letters; P = 0.006). Eyes with IRF in the foveal center had worse mean VA than eyes without IRF (59.9 vs. 70.9 letters; P 212 μm (59.4 vs. 71.3 vs. 70.3 letters; P P Conclusions The associations between VA and morphologic features identified through year 1 were maintained or strengthened during year 2. Eyes with foveal IRF, abnormally thin retina, greater thickness of the subretinal tissue complex on OCT, and subfoveal geographic atrophy or scar on FP/FA had the worst VA. Subretinal fluid was associated with better VA.
Survivorship of Meniscal Allograft Transplantation in an Athletic Patient Population.

Background:There are limited data evaluating the clinical outcomes of meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) in physically active cohorts.Purpose:To determine the survivorship, complication rates, and functional outcomes of MAT in an active military population.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:All military patients undergoing MAT between 2007 and 2013 were identified from the Military Health System. Previous/concomitant procedures, perioperative complications, reoperation rate, revision, and initiation of medical discharge for persistent knee disability were recorded. Univariate analysis was performed to identify associations between patient-based and surgical variables on selected endpoints.Results:A total of 230 MATs (227 patients; 228 knees) were identified; the mean patient age was 27.2 years (range, 18-46 years), and the cohort was predominately male (89%). Approximately half (51%) of the patients had undergone prior, nonmeniscal knee procedures. Medial MATs were performed in 1...
Evaluation of Bermudagrass Resistance to Fall Armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): Influence of Host Strain and Dietary Conditioning

Growth and development of four fall army worm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), colonies (Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia 1, and Georgia 2) representing two host strains (corn and rice) were evaluated on artificial diets (modified pinto bean, pinto bean, velvet bean caterpillar, and southwestern corn borer). The effect of strain-specific development and dietary conditioning on the level of resistance observed when FAW larvae were fed Bermuda grass, Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.; centipede grass, Eremochola ophiuroides (Munro) Hack; and zoysiagrass, Zoysia japonica Steud., was assessed. Differences in response to diet were observed between strains. Fall army worm acceptance of Bermuda grass var., ‘Coastal’ and ‘Tifton 292,’ was influenced by strain-specific development and dietary conditioning. The FAW strain and diet used to maintain laboratory colonies should be considered when Bermuda grasses are evaluated for FAW resistance.
Seed Treatment with Rubidium for Monitoring Wireworm (Coleoptera: Elateridae) Feeding on Corn

A method of labeling corn plants with the trace element rubidium (Rb) was developed for monitoring wireworm feeding on germinating corn seed and seedlings. The method involved treatment of corn seed with an adhesive solution containing Rb. In a greenhouse experiment, only small amounts of Rb were extracted from soil adjacent to treated plants. In field evaluations, corn was labeled at time of planting and remained labeled for ≤32 d after planting. Rb was transferred to larvae of four species, and concentrations in all wireworms found while feeding on labeled plants exceeded 101 ppm Rb. One-sided 99% tolerance limits calculated from Rb concentrations in wireworms from untreated plots were used as cutoff levels for separating labeled and unlabeled larvae. Percentages of three wireworm populations that became labeled were similar in plots that received seed treatments containing 15, 25, and 35% Rb and in samples obtained between 2 and 32 d after planting. Portions of two populations were obtained from soil adjacent to labeled plants and contained Rb levels similar to naturally occurring concentrations. Seed treatment with Rb provides a sensitive tool for estimating percentages of wireworm populations that feed on corn during its early stages, and also may permit measurements of differences in damage potentials between species and dispersal of larvae after feeding.
Intra- and Inter-Cultural Negotiations: A Chinese Buyer’s Perspective

AbstractThis study compares behaviors of Chinese negotiators in both intra-cultural and inter-cultural settings. In particular, the authors examined the relationship between selected individual as well as organizational variables and the problem solving approach (PSA) in negotiations. In addition, the subsequent influence of PSA on negotiation outcomes was also investigated. The results show that different sets of variables impact PSA at the intra- and inter-cultural levels. No significant differences were observed with the intra- and inter-cultural PSA behaviors.
Nucleotide-binding-oligomerization domain proteins and toll-like receptors: sensors of the inflammatory bowel diseases' microbial environment.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases appear to result from inappropriate immune responses driven by apparently normal intestinal microflora in genetically susceptible hosts. This review focuses on recently described mechanisms balancing toll-like receptor and nucleotide-binding-oligomerization domain activation in the face of ubiquitous enteric flora. RECENT FINDINGS: Toll-like receptor and nucleotide-binding-oligomerization domain signaling plays an integral role in the close collaboration between the intestinal epithelial cell monolayer and adjacent mucosal immune cells. Pathways activated by functional cytosolic nucleotide-binding-oligomerization domain proteins appear to interact with those mediated by membrane-associated toll-like receptors in the innate and adaptive immune defense against intra-and extracellular pathogens. Nucleotide-binding-oligomerization domain-mediated signaling may also control toll-like receptor-induced proinflammatory pathways. SUMMARY: Intersections between toll-like receptor and nucleotide-binding-oligomerization domain pathways may exist to refine the host immune response to pathogens and prevent undesired immune stimulation driven by the intestinal microbiota. Deficient toll-like receptor and nucleotide-binding-oligomerization domain function due to genetic variability is associated with an increased susceptibility to the development of inflammatory bowel disease.
Wie trifft man sittliche Entscheidungen? Eine Methodik

Schon und gut: man hat ein ethisches (oder sittliches) Problem in der Medizinethik und mus sich entscheiden, was man tun soll. Schlieslich ist es einem kaum moglich, weder als Arzt am Krankenbett, als Verwandter oder Befreundeter eines Menschen, der im Krankenbett liegt, und schon gar nicht als Patient selbst, sich in verschiedene theoretische Uberlegungen lange zu verwickeln. Naturlich mus man uber das Problem nachdenken — was man von ethischer Theorie weis, wird den Hintergrund des Nachdenkens farben, ein Verstandnis der Theorie wird das Nachdenken viel scharfer und leichter machen, und schlieslich wird es hochst nutzlich sein, die Theorie selbst sowie auch ihre Anwendung zu verstehen. Aber man kann nicht, wie erwahnt, einfach eine Theorie wie eine Schablone anwenden und blind das tun, von dem man glaubt, das es auf solche Weise der Ethik entspreche. Prinzipien, die von der ethischen Theorie abgeleitet werden konnen, sollten als Richtlinien verstanden werden und mit gesundem Menschenverstand und unter voller Berucksichtigung der individuellen Probleme eines gewissen Falles angewendet werden, der sich in einem bestimmten Kontext und einer gewissen Kultur abspielt.