cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spectrophotometric determination of urinary copper.

Abstract A precise, quantitative procedure for the determination of urine copper is described. After a standard wet-ash digestion technique, colorization is effected with a simplified “reagent mix” of equal parts of aqueous oxalyldihydrazide, ammonium hydroxide, and acetaldehyde. A precision of ± 10% is routinely achieved in the analysis of 0.4 to 0.5 μg quantities of copper. Recoveries of copper added to normal or pathologic urines average 100% (range 97–104), and there is no interference from iron even in concentrations of 3.3 mg/100 ml of urine. Healthy, aproteinuric human subjects (20 adults, 12 children) excreted no more than 22 μg per day—results in substantial agreement with four reports in the literature, but at variance with 14 others. It is suggested that the higher values of the latter group resulted from certain technical and methodological factors. Based on the data of the present investigation and other well-controlled studies in the literature, it is concluded that the upper limit of urinary copper excretion in the human is 25–30 μg/day. The advantages of the current method are pointed out.
Boost Phase Ballistic Missile Defense Using Multiple Hypothesis Tracking

In this paper, a multiple hypotheses tracking (MHT) algorithm is developed to successfully track multiple ballistic missiles. A framework is developed for the MHT, which includes a linear assignment problem approach used to search the measurement-to-contact association matrix for the set of exact \i-best feasible hypotheses. A hypothetical scenario in which multiple ballistic missiles have been launched and threaten the North American continent is considered as a test case for this MHT algorithm. To aid in the interception and destruction of the threat far from their intended targets, the research focuses on the boost-phase portion of the missile-flight. The near-simultaneous attacks are detected by a network of radar sensors positioned near the missile launch sites. Each sensor provides position reports or track files for the MHT routine to process. The results show that this new algorithm works well in a realistic-environment where complex interactions of missile staging, non-linear thrust profiles and sensor noise can significantly degrade the track algorithm performance especially in multiple target scenarios.
Simulation for manufacturing system design and operation: Literature review and analysis

Abstract This paper provides a comprehensive review of discrete event simulation publications published between 2002 and 2013 with a particular focus on applications in manufacturing. The literature is classified into three general classes of manufacturing system design, manufacturing system operation, and simulation language/package development. The paper further categorizes the literature into 11 subclasses based on the application area. The current review contributes to the literature in three significant ways: (1) it provides a wide coverage by reviewing 290 papers; (2) it provides a detailed analysis of different aspects of the literature to identify research trends through innovative data mining approaches as well as insights derived from the review process; and (3) it updates and extends the existing classification schemes through identification and inclusion of recently emerged application areas and exclusion of obsolete categories. The results of the literature analysis are then used to make suggestions for future research.
B-cell alloantigen associated with chronic mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis.

Abstract Thirteen patients with chronic mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis (M.C.G.) defined by light and immunofluorescent microscopy were examined for possible B-lymphocyte alloantigen associations by means of antisera from multiparous mothers of M.C.G. probands. Three such sera reacted with M.C.G.-patient B cells. One of these sera ( M.C.G.3) was highly discriminative for a B-cell antigen present in 77% of M.C.G. patients and only 17% of normal individuals tested. The risk of developing M.C.G. was estimated to be 16.6 times greater in the presence of the M.C.G.3 antigen than in its absence. This is the first demonstration of an association between a specific B-lymphocyte determinant and immune-mediated glomerulonephritis.
Treatment of urinary calculi in aporcine and canine model using The Browne pneumatic impactor

Abstract Objectives. To define the safety and efficacy of a pneumatically driven, mechanical lithotriptor using nitinol probes through semirigid and actively deflectable, flexible fiberoptic endoscopes. Methods. The Browne Pneumatic Impactor (BPI) uses standard compressed air to drive a nitinol wire along its long axis onto a calculus, fragmenting it. Bench top and in vivo experiments were designed to explore variables, including the effects of various nitinol probe tip designs, outer diameters, excursion distances, and sheathing materials as well as the efficiency of fragmentation with active endoscope deflection. In vivo experiments in two animal models (porcine and canine) were performed using small diameter, fiberoptic semirigid, and actively deflectable, flexible ureteroscopes. Surgically placed calculi were fragmented with the BPI and representative tissue was obtained immediately and up to 2 weeks postoperatively to define histologic changes. A panel of human urinary calculi was chosen for their relative difficulty in fragmentation with other modalities. Results. Calculi, including pure calcium oxalate monohydrate, brushite, cystine, and triamterene, were fragmented with the BPI used through both semirigid and actively deflectable, flexible endoscopes. A rounded tip design and excursions of 1 mm fragmented calculi most efficiently with minimal histologic reaction. Retrograde stone migration before fragmentation was noted in dilated upper urinary tracts. This was prevented by first entrapping the calculus within a standard basket. Ureteral calculi were fragmented with the nitinol probes deflected up to 45% by the flexible endoscope. With increased active deflection, the efficiency of fragmentation decreased. Conclusions. The BPI represents a safe, thermal-free endoscopic lithotrite able to fragmentthe hardest calculi through semirigid and flexible ureteroscopes.
Unsteady entrance flows in elastic tubes with application to the vascular system

Mathematical model of pulsatile viscous entrance flow in thick walled elastic tube, investigating flow development effects in large arteries
A computational study on fill rate expressions for single-stage periodic review under normal demand and constant lead time

This paper reviews fill rate expressions for a single stage periodic review inventory system under normal demand and constant lead time, discusses the relationship among all expressions in the literature, and evaluates their robustness and accuracy. Monte Carlo simulation is used to numerically compare all expressions. We present conditions under which some expressions produce higher values than others.
Performance studies of CERES sensors on Earth Science Enterprise (ESE) Terra mission using onboard calibrations and other validation methods

Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy system (CERES) sensors provide accurate measurements for the long-term monitoring of the Earth's radiation budget components such as reflected shortwave and emitted longwave radiances. CERES instruments has three scanning thermistor bolometers that measure broadband radiances in the shortwave (0.3 to 5.0 micrometer), total (0.3 to >100 micrometer) and in 8 - 12 micrometer water vapor window regions. Two of the CERES instruments (Flight Models 1 and 2(FM1&2)) are part of ESE Terra mission and has been successfully making Earth radiance measurements for the past two years. The CERES sensors are calibrated in flight using the on-board blackbody sources and a tungsten lamp known as internal calibration module (ICM) as well as a solar diffuser plate known as the Mirror Attenuator Mosaic (MAM). The ICM calibrations is used to determine the sensor measurement precisions during the ground, ground to orbit, and the on-orbit phases of the sensor calibrations. The MAM calibrations define on-orbit shifts or drifts in shortwave and total sensor responses. The traditional validation studies conducted to understand the stability of the sensors' performance include the analysis of Tropical Mean (TM) value using nadir tropical ocean measurements and three channel intercomparison between sensors of the same instrument. With two CERES instruments on the same platform, an additional study utilizing direct comparison of similar sensor measurements viewing the same geolocation is also conducted. The ICM results have shown that total sensors on both instruments have shown a variation of 0.25 and 0.5 percent respectively, whereas the shortwave sensors show a minimal change of 0.2 percent each. With high variability during the initial year, the MAM results have stabilised within the 0.5 percent precision range in the second year. The validation studies have shed additional light into the behaviour of total sensors in the shortwave and longwave spectral regions. The TM longwave day night difference (DN) derived from longwave sensors of each CERES instrument indicate that the FM1 sensors have varied about 0.25 watts m -2 sr -1 , whereas the total sensor in FM2 has a gradual rise of 1.4 watts m -2 sr -1 in a 30 month period. This paper discusses briefly the contribution of each calibration and validation study in understanding the CERES sensors' behavior and the results from both Terra instruments' sensors. It also discusses how the various analyses are put together in understanding the rise seen in the total sensor of FM2 instrument.
Efficient networks for quantum factoring.

We consider how to optimize memory use and computation time in operating a quantum computer. In particular, we estimate the number of memory quantum bits (qubits) and the number of operations required to perform factorization, using the algorithm suggested by Shor [in Proceedings of the 35th Annual Symposium on Foundations of Computer Science, edited by S. Goldwasser (IEEE Computer Society, Los Alamitos, CA, 1994), p. 124]. A K-bit number can be factored in time of order K3 using a machine capable of storing 5K+1 qubits. Evaluation of the modular exponential function (the bottleneck of Shor’s algorithm) could be achieved with about 72K3 elementary quantum gates; implementation using a linear ion trap would require about 396K3 laser pulses. A proof-of-principle demonstration of quantum factoring (factorization of 15) could be performed with only 6 trapped ions and 38 laser pulses. Though the ion trap may never be a useful computer, it will be a powerful device for exploring experimentally the properties of entangled quantum states.
The preconscious mind and gamma band activity in the reticular activating system.

Gamma waves are high frequency neural oscillations in the range of 30–100 Hz, on average ∼40 Hz. These waves have been implicated in creating the unity of conscious perception, or binding, and are related to awareness, problem solving, and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Based on our level of awareness, Sigmund Freud and his followers have divided the mind into three different parts, the preconscious mind, the subconscious mind, and the conscious mind. The preconscious mind includes those things of which we are aware, but to which we are not paying attention. If we choose to pay attention, we bring them to the conscious mind (Civin and Lombardi, 1990). In this issue of Frontiers in Sleep and Chronobiology, Urbano et al. (2012) suggest that gamma band activity in the reticular activating system (RAS) mediates preconscious awareness, and that it is the maintained high frequency activity across various nuclei that keeps the “stream of consciousness,” as William James called it, flowing across our preconscious mind (James, 2007). This mechanism allows us to survive in a complex world, being aware of the traffic and pedestrians around us as we commute to work. When a stimulus introduces potential danger, for example, an oncoming bus, we instantly bring it into conscious control in order to respond.
Pole placement and the observer-based controller parameterization

Two properties related to observer-based controller parameterization and pole placement are discussed. It is shown that the poles of the closed-loop system with observer-based controller parameterization can be classified into three groups, and each group of poles can be independently determined. These three groups of poles are the regulator poles, the observer poles, and the poles of the added dynamics. If the realization of the controller is not minimal, then the uncontrollable and/or unobservable controller poles can be removed and the order of the controller is minimized. The set of these removable controller poles is a subset of the regulator and the observer poles. The poles of the closed-loop system with the minimal order controller will include all the poles of a parameter matrix and some of the regulator and the observer poles which are not the removable controller poles. >
Premenopausal social status and hormone exposure predict postmenopausal atherosclerosis in female monkeys

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To determine whether premenopausal social subordination in female monkeys predicts postmenopausal atherosclerosis, and whether any such effect is altered by chronic exposure to contraceptive steroids or postmenopausal hormone replacement. METHODS: One hundred seventy-seven (177) premenopausal cynomolgus monkeys ( Macaca fascicularis ) housed in social groups of five or six were fed an atherogenic diet that, for half of the animals, also contained an oral contraceptive (OC). Individuals were judged socially dominant or subordinate based on behavioral observations. After 26 months animals were oophorectomized, biopsied for iliac atherosclerosis, and for the next 36 months were fed one of three atherogenic diets containing soy protein: 1) phytoestrogen-free; 2) phytoestrogens intact; and 3) phytoestrogen-free plus conjugated equine estrogens. Plasma lipids and menstrual cyclicity were also assessed. Finally, all animals were necropsied and the extent of atherosclerosis measured in the coronary and iliac arteries. RESULTS: The interaction of premenopausal social status and OC exposure predicted postmenopausal coronary artery atherosclerosis ( P = .02). Subordinate animals not receiving OCs developed twice the coronary atherosclerosis of similarly untreated dominants ( P P CONCLUSION: Premenopausal social subordination exacerbates postmenopausal atherosclerosis, an effect possibly mediated by estrogen deficiency and shown here to be prevented by premenopausal OC exposure. These results occur irrespective of postmenopausal treatment.
Empiric Combination Antibiotic Therapy Is Associated with Improved Outcome against Sepsis Due to Gram-Negative Bacteria: a Retrospective Analysis

The optimal approach for empirical antibiotic therapy in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock remains controversial. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in the intensive care units of a university hospital. The data from 760 patients with severe sepsis or septic shock associated with Gram-negative bacteremia was analyzed. Among this cohort, 238 (31.3%) patients received inappropriate initial antimicrobial therapy (IIAT). The hospital mortality rate was statistically greater among patients receiving IIAT compared to those initially treated with an appropriate antibiotic regimen (51.7% versus 36.4%; P < 0.001). Patients treated with an empirical combination antibiotic regimen directed against Gram-negative bacteria (i.e., β-lactam plus aminoglycoside or fluoroquinolone) were less likely to receive IIAT compared to monotherapy (22.2% versus 36.0%; P < 0.001). The addition of an aminoglycoside to a carbapenem would have increased appropriate initial therapy from 89.7 to 94.2%. Similarly, the addition of an aminoglycoside would have increased the appropriate initial therapy for cefepime (83.4 to 89.9%) and piperacillin-tazobactam (79.6 to 91.4%). Logistic regression analysis identified IIAT (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 2.30; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.89 to 2.80) and increasing Apache II scores (1-point increments) (AOR, 1.11; 95% CI = 1.09 to 1.13) as independent predictors for hospital mortality. In conclusion, combination empirical antimicrobial therapy directed against Gram-negative bacteria was associated with greater initial appropriate therapy compared to monotherapy in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock. Our experience suggests that aminoglycosides offer broader coverage than fluoroquinolones as combination agents for patients with this serious infection.
Dependence of the 4 F 3/2 &#8594; 4 I 11/2 induced-emission cross section for Nd 3+ on glass composition

Systematic studies of spectral intensities using the Judd-Ofelt (J-O) theory for crystal-field-induced electric-dipole transitions demonstrate that Nd-doped glasses can be tailored for specific laser applications by proper selection of the glass constituents. Variations with glass composition are reported for the following properties: induced-emission cross section, peak fluorescence wavelength, effective fluorescence bandwidth, radiative lifetime, transition probabilities, and fluorescence branching ratios. Both glass network formers and network-modifier ions were changed. In these studies the induced-emission cross section for the Nd3+,4 F_{3/2} \rightarrow 4 I_{11/2} laser transition was varied by more than a factor of 4 by changing the glass host.
Mono-Iodoacetate-Induced Histologic Changes in Subchondral Bone and Articular Cartilage of Rat Femorotibial Joints: An Animal Model of Osteoarthritis:

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by joint pain and a progressive loss of articular cartilage. Studies to elucidate the pathophysiology of OA have been hampered by the lack of a rapid, reproducible animal model that mimics both the histopathology and symptoms associated with the disease. Injection of mono-iodoacetate (MIA), an inhibitor of glycolysis, into the femorotibial joint of rodents promotes loss of articular cartilage similar to that noted in human OA. Here, we describe the histopathology in the subchondral bone and cartilage of rat (Wistar) knee joints treated with a single intra articular injection of MIA (1 mg) and sacrificed at 1, 3, 5, 7, 14, 28, and 56 days postinjection. Histologically, the early time points (days 1-7) were characterized by areas of chondrocyte degeneration/necrosis sometimes involving the entire thickness of the articular cartilage in the tibial plateaus and femoral condyles. Changes to the subchondral bone, as evidenced by increased numbers of osteoclasts and osteoblasts, were noted at by day 7. By 28 days, there was focal fragmentation and collapse of bony trabeculae with fibrosis and increased osteoclastic activity. By 56 days there were large areas of bone remodeling evidenced by osteoclastic bone resorption and newly formed trabeculae with loss of marrow hematopoietic cells. Subchondral cysts and subchondral sclerosis were present in some rats. In conclusion, intra-articular injection of MIA induces loss of articular cartilage with progression of subchondral bone lesions that mimic those of OA. This model offers a rapid and minimally invasive method to reproduce OA-like lesions in a rodent species.
6. Interferon restriction of target organs for lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus-induced T lymphocytes may be lethal

It is generally held that interferons play a role in recovery from acute primary viral infections. One of the most direct ways that this can be demonstrated is by use of anti-interferon serum. Rapid evolution of lethal disease in a number of murine infections (encephalomyocarditis, herpes simplex, Newcastle disease, Semliki Forest viruses) was observed when interferon liberated from virus-infected cells was neutralized by injection of anti-interferon serum. The neutralization suppressed the normal interferon effect, allowing unchecked dissemination of virus (Gresser et al . 1976 b ). However, it appears to be precisely this antiviral property of interferon that causes death in adult mice infected intracerebrally (i.c.) with lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) virus. We explain here how the rapid proliferation of LCM virus could spare these mice rather than kill them.
Are There Non-Causal Explanations (of Particular Events)?

Philosophers have proposed many alleged examples of non-causal explana- tions of particular events. I discuss several well-known examples and argue that they fail to be non-causal.
Evaluation of granular activated carbons for removal of methylisoborneol to below odor threshold concentration in drinking water

Abstract Four granular activated carbons manufactured from different raw materials were evaluated for the removal of 2-methylisoborneol (MIB) to below odor threshold concentration using equilibrium isotherm tests. MIB adsorption isotherms were compared in the aqueous equilibrium concentration range 400 daltons) contributed to changes in isotherms and to the reduction of MIB adsorption capacity. A database of organic pure water isotherms with MIB would be of important value to water facilities requiring T&O control as it provides a reliable starting point for GAC product selection. However, field or pilot tests are still needed for the final selection owing to the varying characteristics of individual water source.
Pet and the reticon

Abstract A PET microcomputer is used to acquire data from a Reticon (a photodiode array) at the rate of 45.45 kHz in each diode scan. The mechanism is discussed in detail. An automatic spectral calibration procedure is described for a Jarrell-Ash (model 78–460) spectrometer. An in-depth semiquantitative discussion about improving the signal-to-noise ratio is also presented.
Early Science Results From the Heterodyne Instrument for the Far Infrared (HIFI) on the Herschel Space Observatory

The Heterodyne Instrument for the Far Infrared (HIFI) on the Herschel Space Observatory covers 480 to 1250 GHz and 1410 to 1910 GHz for high spectral resolution astronomical spectroscopy. Herschel was launched on 14 May 2009, and following cooldown and commissioning, HIFI has been used along with the other two focal plane instruments for a wide variety of astronomical observations. These have ranged from studies of the structure of the interstellar medium in nearby galaxies to detailed studies of the chemistry in star-forming regions of the Milky Way. Observations of the solar system have yielded new results about water in comets and its relationship to the Earth's oceans. In this paper, following a brief review of the instrument and its performance, we give an overview of the most important HIFI discoveries to date. This is necessarily very selective, but is intended to give a hint of the results obtained with this instrument that has really opened submillimeter wavelengths for high-sensitivity/high-resolution spectroscopy.
Exploratory Study of 4D versus 3D Robust Optimization in Intensity Modulated Proton Therapy for Lung Cancer.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare the impact of uncertainties and interplay on 3-dimensional (3D) and 4D robustly optimized intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) plans for lung cancer in an exploratory methodology study. Methods and Materials IMPT plans were created for 11 nonrandomly selected non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases: 3D robustly optimized plans on average CTs with internal gross tumor volume density overridden to irradiate internal target volume, and 4D robustly optimized plans on 4D computed tomography (CT) to irradiate clinical target volume (CTV). Regular fractionation (66 Gy [relative biological effectiveness; RBE] in 33 fractions) was considered. In 4D optimization, the CTV of individual phases received nonuniform doses to achieve a uniform cumulative dose. The root-mean-square dose-volume histograms (RVH) measured the sensitivity of the dose to uncertainties, and the areas under the RVH curve (AUCs) were used to evaluate plan robustness. Dose evaluation software modeled time-dependent spot delivery to incorporate interplay effect with randomized starting phases of each field per fraction. Dose-volume histogram (DVH) indices comparing CTV coverage, homogeneity, and normal tissue sparing were evaluated using Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results 4D robust optimization plans led to smaller AUC for CTV (14.26 vs 18.61, respectively; P =.001), better CTV coverage (Gy [RBE]) (D 95% CTV: 60.6 vs 55.2, respectively; P =.001), and better CTV homogeneity (D 5% -D 95% CTV: 10.3 vs 17.7, resspectively; P =.002) in the face of uncertainties. With interplay effect considered, 4D robust optimization produced plans with better target coverage (D 95% CTV: 64.5 vs 63.8, respectively; P =.0068), comparable target homogeneity, and comparable normal tissue protection. The benefits from 4D robust optimization were most obvious for the 2 typical stage III lung cancer patients. Conclusions Our exploratory methodology study showed that, compared to 3D robust optimization, 4D robust optimization produced significantly more robust and interplay-effect-resistant plans for targets with comparable dose distributions for normal tissues. A further study with a larger and more realistic patient population is warranted to generalize the conclusions.
Characterization of a New Region Required for Macrophage Killing by Legionella pneumophila

In a previous study, a collection of 55 Legionella pneumophila mutants defective for macrophage killing was isolated by transposon mutagenesis. In this study, nine of these mutants that belong to the same DNA hybridization group (group 3) were characterized. A wild-type DNA fragment that covers this DNA hybridization group was cloned and sequenced. This region was found to contain six new genes (designated icmT, icmS, icmR, icmQ, icmP, and icmO), five of which contain at least one transposon insertion. No transposon insertion was found in icmS. However, this gene was found to be required for macrophage killing, since a kanamycin resistance cassette introduced into icmS by gene replacement resulted in a mutant that was attenuated for macrophage killing. A plasmid containing the DNA fragment that covers this region complements all the mutants for macrophage killing, although various levels of complementation were observed for mutants in different genes. Complementation tests were also performed with plasmids containing one or two of these genes, as well as with plasmids containing nonpolar in-frame deletions. The results from these complementation tests indicated that all six genes located in this region are needed for macrophage killing and that they are probably arranged as two transcriptional units (icmTS and icmPO) and two genes (icmR and icmQ). A region upstream of the coding sequence of several icm genes may contain a potential promoter and/or regulatory site. Homology searches show that icmP and icmO bear significant homology to the trbA and trbC genes from the Salmonella R64 plasmid, respectively. The sequences of the other four genes do not show significant homology with any entries in sequence databases.
A Numerical Study of the Retrieval of Sea Surface Height Profiles From Low Grazing Angle Radar Data

A numerical study of the retrieval of sea surface height profiles from low grazing angle radar observations is described. The study is based on a numerical method for electromagnetic scattering from 1-D rough sea profiles, combined with the ldquoimproved linear representationrdquo of Creamer for simulating weakly nonlinear sea surface hydrodynamics. Numerical computations are performed for frequencies from 2975 to 3025 MHz so that simulated radar pulse returns are achieved. The geometry utilized models a radar with an antenna height of 14 m, observing the sea surface at ranges from 520 to 1720 m. The low grazing angles of this configuration produce significant shadowing of the sea surface, and standard analytical theories of sea scattering are not directly applicable. Three approaches for retrieving sea height profile information are compared. The first method uses a statistical relationship between the surface height and the computed radar cross sections versus range (an incoherent measurement). A second method uses the phase difference between scattering measurements in two vertically separated antennas (ldquovertical interferometry) in the retrieval. The final technique retrieves height profiles from variations in the apparent Doppler frequency (coherent measurements) versus range and requires that time-stepped simulations be performed. The relative advantages and disadvantages of each of the three approaches are examined and discussed.
Proximate Causation and the Armed Career Criminal Act

The Armed Career Criminal Act provides for a fifteen-year minimum sentence for those who illegally possess firearms and have been convicted of three or more violent felonies or serious drug offenses. The ACCA defines a "violent felony" to include the following crimes: "burglary, arson, or extortion, involves use of explosives, or otherwise involves conduct that presents a serious potential risk of physical injury to another." This last provision is known as the residual clause.This Comment argues that the primary difficulty in creating a workable residual clause jurisprudence has been one of proximate causation: identifying how close the relationship must be between the offense and the ultimate risk of physical injury. Many preparatory and inchoate crimes (e.g., conspiracy) do not by themselves place people in physical danger, even if the commission of those crimes could lead to further conduct that will. By limiting application of the residual clause to only those crimes that themselves present a serious potential risk of physical injury -- without considering the risk caused by future volitional acts -- the Supreme Court can create a reasonably precise construction of the residual clause.
Operational Hydrological Forecasting during the IPHEx-IOP Campaign - Meet the Challenge.

Summary An operational streamflow forecasting testbed was implemented during the Intense Observing Period (IOP) of the Integrated Precipitation and Hydrology Experiment (IPHEx-IOP) in May–June 2014 to characterize flood predictability in complex terrain. Specifically, hydrological forecasts were issued daily for 12 headwater catchments in the Southern Appalachians using the Duke Coupled surface–groundwater Hydrology Model (DCHM) forced by hourly atmospheric fields and QPFs (Quantitative Precipitation Forecasts) produced by the NASA-Unified Weather Research and Forecasting (NU-WRF) model. Previous day hindcasts forced by radar-based QPEs (Quantitative Precipitation Estimates) were used to provide initial conditions for present day forecasts. This manuscript first describes the operational testbed framework and workflow during the IPHEx-IOP including a synthesis of results. Second, various data assimilation approaches are explored a posteriori (post-IOP) to improve operational (flash) flood forecasting. Although all flood events during the IOP were predicted by the IPHEx operational testbed with lead times of up to 6 h, significant errors of over- and, or under-prediction were identified that could be traced back to the QPFs and subgrid-scale variability of radar QPEs. To improve operational flood prediction, three data-merging strategies were pursued post-IOP: (1) the spatial patterns of QPFs were improved through assimilation of satellite-based microwave radiances into NU-WRF; (2) QPEs were improved by merging raingauge observations with ground-based radar observations using bias-correction methods to produce streamflow hindcasts and associated uncertainty envelope capturing the streamflow observations, and (3) river discharge observations were assimilated into the DCHM to improve streamflow forecasts using the Ensemble Kalman Filter (EnKF), the fixed-lag Ensemble Kalman Smoother (EnKS), and the Asynchronous EnKF (i.e. AEnKF) methods. Both flood hindcasts and forecasts were significantly improved by assimilating discharge observations into the DCHM. Specifically, Nash–Sutcliff Efficiency (NSE) values as high as 0.98, 0.71 and 0.99 at 15-min time-scales were attained for three headwater catchments in the inner mountain region demonstrating that the assimilation of discharge observations at the basin’s outlet can reduce the errors and uncertainties in soil moisture at very small scales. Success in operational flood forecasting at lead times of 6, 9, 12 and 15 h was also achieved through discharge assimilation with NSEs of 0.87, 0.78, 0.72 and 0.51, respectively. Analysis of experiments using various data assimilation system configurations indicates that the optimal assimilation time window depends both on basin properties and storm-specific space–time–structure of rainfall, and therefore adaptive, context-aware configurations of the data assimilation system are recommended to address the challenges of flood prediction in headwater basins.
Alien Tort Litigation and the Prescriptive Jurisdiction Fallacy

This essay argues that U.S. courts hearing cases under the Alien Tort Statute do not exercise jurisdiction to prescribe but rather jurisdiction to adjudicate. It concludes that neither international law limitations on jurisdiction to prescribe nor the domestic presumption against extraterritoriality properly apply to the ATS.
A Markov Chain Monte Carlo Particle Solution of the Initial Uncertainty Propagation Problem

This paper presents a particle approach based on Markov chain Monte Carlo and the method of characteristics to numerically solve the stochastic Liouville equation for nonlinear dynamical systems. Markov chain theory helps accomplish two important objectives: (i) it provides a viable approach for systems with high dimensional state space by using a compact particle representation that is equivalent in measure to the time varying probability density function of the state, and (ii) it automatically extracts the domain of significance of the state uncertainty (i.e. support of the density function) by constructing a Markov chain guided by the solution of the stochastic Liouville equation. Being equivalent in measure to state probability density, the particles obtained can be used directly to compute desired expectations of the system state.
Influence of Egg Production and Other Factors on the Iron Content of Chicken Blood

Abstract IT IS a well known fact that many pullets become thin, pale, and develop general or specific diseases after they have been in production for a time. Dukes and Schwarte (1932) found no significant correlation between spring egg production and hemoglobin level of the blood. Cook and Harmon (1933), on the other hand, reported that egg production caused a marked drop in hemoglobin level and that it rose again soon after production stopped. If egg production does cause a drop in hemoglobin level of the blood, it would result in abnormal cell activities and predispose the birds to disease. Some feedstuffs and mineral preparations are being advocated by commercial firms as supplements for laying rations to increase their iron content and thus prevent a possible nutritional anemia. The purpose of this paper is to add to and possibly aid in clarifying the existing data on the influence of egg production . . .
Repeatability of female response to ipsdienol enantiomeric mixtures by pine engraver,Ips pini (Coleoptera: Scolytidae)

Repeatability, a measure of the proportion of variance in a character that occurs among rather than within individuals, is assessed for the phenotypic trait of female response preference for enantiomeric blends of ipsdienol inIps pini at two pheromone concentrations—1 µg and 5 μg of ipsdienol. Average female response shows greater repeatability at the higher pheromone dosage when females are tested in two successive sets of five assays than when assayed in three successive sets or at the lower dosage. Repeatability within each set of five assays is highest for the first set and decreases thereafter. Thus the response phenotype of females for enantiomeric blends of ipsdienol in this experiment is context dependent; female choice of an enantiomeric blend differed between dosages and among sets of assays.
AB0689 Comparison of pvas scores with mra findings of continued activity in singaporean children with takayasu arteritis

Background Disease activity assessment in childhood Takayasu Arteritis (cTA) is an ongoing issue. Recently a new index of disease activity Pediatric Vasculitis Assessment Score (PVAS) was validated for children. Objectives Our aim was to compare disease activity scoring utilizing the PVAS, to imaging features indicating ongoing inflammation in our small cohort of pediatric Takayasu arteritis patients, at onset and at follow up. Methods Case notes of children fulfilling the EULAR vasculitis classification criteria for cTA were assessed from the initial rheumatology consultation and the visit corresponding to the last MRA. PVAS scores were calculated. MRA reports were assessed for imaging features indicating disease activity i.e. wall contrast enhancement and irregularity. Descriptive statistics (median, interquartile range (IQR) & percentiles) were used to describe the data. Results Patients #1 & 2 presented with acute stroke and Patients #3 & 4 with hypertension. Patient#5 was referred 20 months after diagnosis but had never received immunosuppression. Median age of onset was 11 years (IQR 7.8-11.9) and median time for follow up was 13 months (IQR 8-15). 80% had MRA progression with further vessel involvement and continued wall enhancement. 40% of patients initially only had branch involvement +/- renal artery stenosis but later developed aortic involvement. ESR was elevated on follow up in 40%. Conclusions In this small cohort of cTA patients, follow up PVAS did not reflect MRA findings of continued disease activity in 4 out of 5 patients. Further studies in larger cohorts are necessary to further characterize this issue and this is ongoing in our region. References Dolezalova P, Price-Kuehne FE, Ozen S et al. : Disease activity assessment in childhood vasculitis: development and preliminary validation of the Paediatric Vasculitis Activity Score (PVAS). Ann Rheum Dis 2012;00:1–6. Andrews J, Mason JC et al. : Takayasu’s arteritis—recent advances in imaging offer promise. Rheumatology 2007;46:6–15 Disclosure of Interest None Declared
Spatial and Spectral Features of Optical Response to Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Suggest Vascular Origin

Electrical stimulation of the human sural nerve induces an optical response on a 100 ms timescale. On the basis of its spatial and spectral dependence, we hypothesize that it is generated by vascular motion.
Ontological priority and John Duns scotus

L'A. vise a definir la notion de priorite ontologique, utilisee souvent dans le discours philosophique, en s'appuyant sur le concept d'ordre essentiel de Duns Scot
Peripheral inflammation related to lower fMRI activation during a working memory task and resting functional connectivity among older adults: a preliminary study.

Author(s): Dev, Sheena I; Moore, Raeanne C; Soontornniyomkij, Benchawanna; Achim, Cristian L; Jeste, Dilip V; Eyler, Lisa T | Abstract: ObjectivePeripheral inflammation has been associated with adverse effects on cognition and brain structure in late life, a process called 'inflammaging.' Identifying biomarkers of preclinical cognitive decline is critical in the development of preventative therapies, and peripheral inflammation may be able to serve as an indicator of cognitive decline. However, little is known regarding the relationship between peripheral inflammation and brain structure and function among older adults.MethodsTwenty-four older adults (mean age = 78) underwent a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) resting state functional connectivity scan, and a subset (n = 14) completed the n-Back working memory task in the scanner. All participants completed a blood draw, and inflammation was measured with interleukin 6 (IL-6) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP).ResultsSurprisingly, age was unrelated to measures of inflammation (IL-6, CRP) or brain function (default mode network (DMN) connectivity; working memory performance; blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) activation with higher working memory load). However, lower functional connectivity between the left parietal seed and all other DMN regions was associated with higher levels of IL-6 and CRP. Additionally, greater plasma concentration of IL-6 was associated with lower BOLD activation in the left middle frontal gyrus in response to increased working memory load.ConclusionsThese preliminary findings support the importance of IL-6 and CRP in brain function among older adults. Frontal and parietal regions may be particularly sensitive to the effects of inflammation. Additionally, these findings provide preliminary evidence of inflammatory contributions to level of neural activity, even after accounting for vascular risk factors.
A Design of United Access Control System

On the basis of role-based access control(RBAC) model and analysis of the design of access control in current applications, a design of united acce ss control system is proposed. It involves standard design of business object, c ombined authorization of users and roles, access control of instance of object a nd integration of dynamic authorization in workflow.
3D Profile and Generating Mechanism of Cylindrical Surface Lapping Machined with Abrasive Jet Flow Restricted by Grinding Wheel

The aim of abrasive jet flow finishing process as a new lapping techonology is to remove further the surface defect layer and diminish roughness and ripple. Experiments are performed on a cylindrical grinder MB1332A with a 45 steel workpiece as specimen of which the surface roughness values is 0.6 μm. The micromorphology of machined surface morphology is observed by using scanning electron microscope and the microcosmic geometry parameters are measured with Micromesvre2 profilometer. With ACF the surface during grinding and further lapping with liquid abrasive jet flow are researched. The material removal mechanism and the mechanism of surface morphology finished by the novel process is investigated. The energized free abrasives polish,wipe off and micro-cut the workpiece surface in wedge-like zone which is the main factor in material removal and the lateral extrusion of abrasive fluid is the main factor of homogenizing and lowering ripples. The result indicates that the machined surface changes from continuous parallel micro-groove to randomly distributed discontinuous micro-pit and the surface roughness values gradually decreases from an initial value of about 0.6 μm down to about 0.2 μm with the increase of machining cycles. Furthermore,the isotropy surface and uniformity veins both parallel and perpendicular machining direction are attained by the finishing process to improve greatly the wear resistance of the workpiece.
A Dynamic Scoring Simulation Analysis of How TEL Design Choices Impact Government Expansion

A dynamic scoring simulation analysis compares the size-of-government effects of four state-government-level Tax and Expenditure Limit (TEL) and Budget Stabilization Fund (BSF) combinations. Two of the four TEL-BSF combinations have population-plus-inflation as the basis for the spending growth limit. The other two TEL-BSF combinations have personal-income-growth as the basis for the spending growth cap. A sensitivity analysis, including a regression analysis of Monte-Carlo-generated ‘observations’, measures the significance of the model parameter choices. The personal-income-growth TELs don’t constrain spending growth at all in some states. In most states, a TEL based on a significant multiple of population plus inflation restrains fiscal expansion more than either version of our personal income growth TEL. The findings provide some important policy issues: there are significant differences in the fiscal and economic impacts of likely TEL design alternatives, and there is a likely trade-off between stringency and political durability.
Ubiquitous Low-Cost Functionalized Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Sensors for Distributed Methane Leak Detection

This paper presents a highly sensitive, energy efficient, and low-cost distributed methane (CH4) sensor system (DMSS) for continuous monitoring, detection, and localization of CH4 leaks in natural gas infrastructure, such as transmission and distribution pipelines, wells, and production pads. The CH4 sensing element, a key component of the DMSS, consists of a metal–oxide nanocrystal functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube mesh, which, in comparison with the existing literature, shows stronger relative resistance change while interacting with lower parts per million concentration of CH4. A Gaussian plume triangulation algorithm has been developed for the DMSS. Given a geometric model of the surrounding environment, the algorithm can precisely detect and localize a CH4 leak as well as estimate its mass emission rate. A UV-based surface recovery technique making the sensor recover ten times faster than the reported ones is presented for the DMSS. A control algorithm based on the UV-accelerated recovery is developed, which facilitates faster leak detection.
Intraoperative Development of Tension Pneumocephalus in a Patient Undergoing Repair of a Cranial-Dural Defect Under Nitrous Oxide Anesthesia.

Rapid buildup of gas within the cranial vault can result in a life‑threatening condition known as “tension pneumocephalus,” necessitating immediate surgical intervention. Nitrous oxide (N 2 O), a commonly used inhaled anesthetic, is associated with the development of tension pneumocephalus and its role in neurosurgical procedures has been debated in the literature. We present a case of tension pneumocephalus with preexisting pneumocephalus secondary to the usage of N 2 O as an inhaled anesthetic. Included is a literature review of studies discussing the role of N 2 O in the development of tension pneumocephalus. N 2 O is associated with tension pneumocephalus especially in the setting of preexisting pneumocephalus. Tension pneumocephalus can manifest as Cushing response and immediate decompression is life‑saving. Nitrous oxide should be used cautiously in neurosurgical procedures, especially with preexisting pneumocephalus. Key words : Nitrous oxide, inhaled anesthetic, tension pneumocephalus
Responses to Stephen Marshall’s ‘The kind of art urban design is’

Stephen has done a heroic service for urban design by placing it in the panoply of creative acts, and in the process has produced a guide to the literature that any student of the field ought to re...
Consensus-based improved droop control for suppressing circulating current using adaptive virtual impedance in microgrids

To suppress large circulating currents due to slight differences in both phases and magnitudes of distributed generation (DG) output voltages in microgrid with considering mismatched line impedance, this paper proposes a circulating current suppressing method that employs distributed adaptive virtual impedance for islanded microgrid. The reactive power mismatch among the DG units is discovered by using the consensus control and then is used to adaptively regulate the virtual impedance of each DG. The circulating line currents among the DGs are effectively suppressed with fully distributed regulation of the DG virtual impedance by the proposed control strategy which requires no knowledge of the line impedances. Simulation results are presented to prove the effectiveness of the proposed method to suppress effectively the circulating current.