cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Initiation and reaction tuning of nanoporous energetic silicon

Nanoporous silicon, well-known for its optical properties, has gained increasing attention in recent years as an energetic material. In this paper, we demonstrate the ability to tune the energy release rate as measured by propagation speed, ranging from a fast burn to speeds that exceed 2000m/s. We also demonstrate tuning the quantity of gas generated by a factor of 3 while keeping the total energy released close to constant. We present the performance characterization data for an improved thermal initiator that is integrated on the nanoporous energetic silicon. The optimization of the hotwire initiator allows ignition with less than 100 ma applied current. Finally, we show integration of the nanoporous energetic silicon on-chip with a MEMS acceleration switch fabricated using standard micromachining techniques.
Pratyaastha: an efficient elastic distributed SDN control plane

Several distributed SDN controller architectures have been proposed to mitigate the risks of overload and failure. However, since they statically assign switches to controller instances and store state in distributed data stores (which doubles flow setup latency), they hinder operators' ability to minimize both flow setup latency and controller resource consumption. To address this, we propose a novel approach for assigning SDN switches and partitions of SDN application state to distributed controller instances. We present a new way to partition SDN application state that considers the dependencies between application state and SDN switches. We then formally model the assignment problem as a variant of multi-dimensional bin packing and propose a practical heuristic to solve the problem with strict time constraints. Our preliminary evaluations show that our approach yields a 44% decrease in flow setup latency and a 42% reduction in controller operating costs.
Elasto-viscoplastic constitutive equations for polycrystalline metals: Application to tantalum

Abstract Strain-rate and temperature-dependent constitutive equations for polycrystalline metals which are capable of modeling the initial and evolving anisotropy in ductile metallic materials owing to the evolution of crystallographic texture are reviewed and then specialized to reproduce the recently published stress-strain response of commercially pure b.c.c. tantalum for strains up to 60%, at strain rates from quasi-static to 30,000 s −1 , and temperatures from −200 to 525 °C (Hoge and Mukherjee, 1977; Vecchio, 1994; Nemat-Nasser and Isaacs, 1996). The constitutive equations have been implemented in a finite element program, and the computational capability is used to simulate the evolution of crystallographic texture in simple compression, plane-strain compression, and torsion under quasi-static conditions. A comparison of the predictions against corresponding experiments shows that the crystal plasticity-based model predicts the texture evolution and the macroscopic stress-strain curves satisfactorily. The computational capability is also used to simulate the dynamic Taylor rod-impact tests performed by Ting (1992) on pre-textured tantalum cylinders. The numerical simulations reasonably reproduce the final length and the ovalized macroscopic shape of the impact end of the cylinders observed in the experiments.
Application of three-level linear mixed-effects model incorporating gene-age interactions for association analysis of longitudinal family data

Longitudinal studies that collect repeated measurements on the same subjects over time have long been considered as being more powerful and providing much better information on individual changes than cross-sectional data. We propose a three-level linear mixed-effects model for testing genetic main effects and gene-age interactions with longitudinal family data. The simulated Genetic Analysis Workshop 16 Problem 3 data sets were used to evaluate the method. Genome-wide association analyses were conducted based on cross-sectional data, i.e., each of the three single-visit data sets separately, and also on the longitudinal data, i.e., using data from all three visits simultaneously. Results from the analysis of coronary artery calcification phenotype showed that the longitudinal association tests were much more powerful than those based on single-visit data only. Gene-age interactions were evaluated under the same framework for detecting genetic effects that are modulated by age.
Development of allele-specific PCR and RT–PCR assays for clustered resistance genes using a potato late blight resistance transgene as a model

Members of the NBS-LRR gene family impart resistance to a wide variety of pathogens and are often found clustered within a plant genome. This clustering of homologous sequences can complicate PCR-based characterizations, especially the study of transgenes. We have developed allele-specific PCR and RT-PCR assays for the potato late blight resistance gene RB. Our assay utilizes two approaches toward primer design, allowing discrimination between the RB transgene and both the endogenous RB gene and numerous RB homeologs. First, a reverse primer was designed to take advantage of an indel present in the RB transgene but absent in rb susceptibility alleles, enhancing specificity for the transgene, though not fully discriminating against RB homeologs. Second, a forward primer was designed according to the principles of mismatch amplification mutation assay (MAMA) PCR, targeting SNPs introduced during the cloning of RB. Together, the indel reverse primer and the MAMA forward primer provide an assay that is highly specific for the RB transgene, being capable of distinguishing the transgene from all RB endogenous gene copies and from all RB paralogs in a diverse collection of wild and cultivated potato genotypes. These primers have been successfully multiplexed with primers of an internal control. The multiplexed assay is useful for both PCR and RT-PCR applications. Double MAMA-PCR, in which both PCR primers target separate transgene-specific SNPs, was also tested and shown to be equally specific for the RB transgene. We propose extending the use of MAMA for the characterization of resistance transgenes.
8-m UV/visible/IR space telescope

This paper presents a conceptual design of a next generation large space telescope. A 8-m aperture telescope orbiting Earth at an altitude of 134,000 km would offer dramatic improvements over the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) in sensitivity, resolution, spectral range (1.2 micrometers - 40 micrometers ), sky coverage, and viewing efficiency. The proposed design is characterized by an effective solar shield, inflatable space-rigidized bottom sunshade, lightweight actively controlled primary and secondary mirrors, lightweight telescope shell, and relatively low overall mass (near HST mass). Initial thermal analysis indicates that very low- mirror temperatures can be achieved by purely radiative-cooling schemes, thereby allowing to extend spectral operating range to mid-IR wavelengths. The design presented assumes that research and development over the next decade should make it feasible to: 1) satisfy requirements for the telescope pointing accuracy and stability, autonomous mirror surface control, large format detectors with small size pixels, and cryocooler's long life, and 2) incorporate artificial intelligence into the spacecraft systems to provide extensive autonomy and fault detection/correction ability.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
INSTABILITY OF SOME IDEAL PLANE FLOWS

We prove the instability of large classes of steady states of the two-dimensional Euler equation. For an odd shear flow, beginning with the Rayleigh equation, we define a family of operators depending on some positive parameter. Then we use infinite determinants to keep track of the signs of the eigenvalues of these operators. The existence of purely growing modes follows from a continuation argument. Employing a new analysis of neutral modes together with a rigorous justification of Tollmien's classical method, we obtain a sharp condition for linear and hence nonlinear instability of a general class of bounded shear flows. We obtain similar results for bounded rotating flows and unbounded shear flows.
Particle motion in Stokes flow near a plane fluid-fluid interface. Part 2. Linear shear and axisymmetric straining flows

We consider the motion of a sphere or a slender body in the presence of a plane fluid–fluid interface with an arbitrary viscosity ratio, when the fluids undergo a linear undisturbed flow. First, the hydrodynamic relationships for the force and torque on the particle at rest in the undisturbed flow field are determined, using the method of reflections, from the spatial distribution of Stokeslets, rotlets and higher-order singularities in Stokes flow. These fundamental relationships are then applied, in combination with the corresponding solutions obtained in earlier publications for the translation and rotation through a quiescent fluid, to determine the motion of a neutrally buoyant particle freely suspended in the flow. The theory yields general trajectory equations for an arbitrary viscosity ratio which are in good agreement with both exact-solution results and experimental data for sphere motions near a rigid plane wall. Among the most interesting results for motion of slender bodies is the generalization of the Jeffrey orbit equations for linear simple shear flow.
Organic matter turnover in soil physical fractions following woody plant invasion of grassland: Evidence from natural 13C and 15N

Soil physical structure causes differential accessibility of soil organic carbon (SOC) to decomposer organisms and is an important determinant of SOC storage and turnover. Techniques for physical fractionation of soil organic matter in conjunction with isotopic analyses (d 13 C, d 15 N) of those soil fractions have been used previously to (a) determine where organic C is stored relative to aggregate structure, (b) identify sources of SOC, (c) quantify turnover rates of SOC in specific soil fractions, and (d) evaluate organic matter quality. We used these two complementary approaches to characterize soil C storage and dynamics in the Rio Grande Plains of southern Texas where C3 trees/shrubs (d 13 C ¼� 27%) have largely replaced C4 grasslands (d 13 C ¼� 14%) over the past 100–200 years. Using a chronosequence approach, soils were collected from remnant grasslands (Time 0) and from woody plant stands ranging in age from 10 to 130 years. We separated soil organic matter into specific size/density fractions and determined their C and N concentrations and natural d 13 C and d 15 N values. Mean residence times (MRTs) of soil fractions were calculated based on changes in their d 13 C with time after woody encroachment. The shortest MRTs (average ¼ 30 years) were associated with all particulate organic matter (POM) fractions not protected within aggregates. Fine POM (53–250mm) within macro- and microaggregates was relatively more protected from decay, with an average MRT of 60 years. All silt+clay fractions had the longest MRTs (average ¼ 360 years) regardless of whether they were found inside or outside of aggregate structure. d 15 N values of soil physical fractions were positively correlated with MRTs of the same fractions, suggesting that higher d 15 N values reflect an increased degree of humification. Increased soil C and N pools in wooded areas were due to
Light and Electron Microscopic Observations on Ciliated Vacuoles and Cysts in the Oviductal and Endocervical Epithelia of the Rabbit

Ciliated vacuoles and intraepithelial cysts have been observed in oviductal and endocervical epithelia of rabbits. In this study, rabbits under various hormonal conditions were studied by light and transmission electron microscopy and tissue culture in an attempt to determine their distribution and origin. Ciliated vacuoles most frequently lay in the basal cytoplasm, below or beside the nucleus, and very close to the basal lamina. A few were apically located. Their average diameter was 8.8 by 5.1 microns. Cilia and microvilli projected into the vacuolar lumen. These vacuoles were located intracellularly as evidenced first by the degeneration of both their cilia and microvilli and the moderately dense matrix that often filled the vacuolar lumen, as observed by electron microscopy. Secondly, phase microscopy of the living endocervical epithelium allowed us to observe the beating of the cilia within the vacuoles, not on the surface of such cells. Thirdly, ruthenium red stained the surface glycocalyx of ciliated and secretory cells, but not that of the cilia and microvilli within the vacuoles. The intraepithelial cysts were not observed in all tissue blocks. The largest numbers were found in ovariectomized animals treated for 3 and 5 days with estradiol. More were seen in the isthmus and cervix than in the fimbria and ampulla. The cysts were located most often within the epithelium along the sides of, and at the bases of, the mucosal folds. They were lined by flattened epithelium of various combinations of secretory and ciliated cells. An unusual cell type was associated with some of the cysts and ciliated vacuoles. Its cytoplasm contained aggregates of mitochondria and vesicles whose contents varied in density. Although the genesis of the ciliated vacuoles is not certain, our results indicate that they may arise from aberrant positioning of proliferating procentrioles or from a defect in targeting or transporting the centrioles to the apical plasma membrane to serve as basal bodies. Fusion of adjacent ciliated vacuoles with lumina lined by secretory cells having deep apical invaginations appeared to contribute to the formation of cysts.
Field Estimates of Attraction of Ceratitis capitata to Trimedlure and Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae) to Methyl Eugenol in Varying Environments.

Measuring and modeling the attractiveness of semiochemical-baited traps is of significant importance to detection, delimitation, and control of invasive pests. Here, we describe the results of field mark-release-recapture experiments with Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) and Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) to estimate the relationship between distance from a trap baited with trimedlure and methyl eugenol, respectively, and probability of capture for a receptive male insect. Experiments were conducted using a grid of traps with a central release point at two sites on Hawaii Island, a Macadamia orchard on the East side of the island and a lava field on the West side. We found that for B. dorsalis and methyl eugenol there is a 65% probability of capture at ∼36 m from a single trap, regardless of habitat. For C. capitata, we found a 65% probability of capture at a distance of ∼14 m from a single trap in the orchard and 7 m in the lava field. We also present results on the spatial and temporal pattern of recaptures. The attraction data are analyzed via a hyperbolic secant-based capture probability model.
Crack-induced seismic anisotropy in the oceanic crust across the East Pacific Rise (9°30′N)

The seismic anisotropy of the shallow oceanic crust across the East Pacific Rise (9‡30PN) is studied with P-wave refraction data collected during a controlled-source, three-dimensional tomography experiment. The anisotropy is indicated by a cos(2a) pattern of travel time residuals, where a is the receiver to shot azimuth. The travel time data are best fit by a model containing 4% anisotropy from 500 m to 1 km depth below the sea floor, 2% from 1 to 2 km, and 0% below 2 km depth. The upper 500 m of crust is not independently constrained by the data since ray paths at these depths are oriented near vertically. The fast direction of P-wave propagation is aligned along a trend oriented 6 ˛ 10‡ counterclockwise from the rise axis. The results are consistent with the presence of vertically aligned cracks that form on or very near the rise axis, are oriented nearly parallel to the rise trend, penetrate to less than 2 km depth, and provide 6 10% of the total pore space in the shallow crust. In comparison with similar studies across slow- and intermediatespreading ridges, there is no apparent spreading-rate dependence of the magnitude of anisotropy. fl 2001 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.
Stability and Antioxidant Activity of Beta Carotene in Conventional and High Oleic Canola Oil

Conventional canola oil (CO) and high oleic canola oil (HOCO) were stored under autoxidative and photooxidative conditions, β-carotene was added at 0 to 120 ppm. The oils were diluted in mobile phase and injected onto an HPLC column to track β-carotene changes over time. Peroxide values were followed to assess the oxidative stability of the oils. β-carotene was more stable in HOCO than in CO under autoxidative conditions, but no difference between oils was observed under photooxidative conditions. The HOCO was more stable against autoxidation, and CO was more stable against photo-oxidation. Antioxidant activity was shown by β-carotene in both oils, which contained natural tocopherols, during both autoxidative and photooxidative conditions.
Improving the Effectiveness of Context-Based Prefetching with Multi-order Analysis

Data prefetching is an effective way to accelerate data access in high-end computing systems and to bridge the increasing performance gap between processor and memory. In recent years, the contextbased data prefetching has received intensive attention because of its general applicability. In this study, we provide a preliminary analysis of the impact of orders on the effectiveness of the context-based prefetching. Motivated by the observations from the analytical results, we propose a new context-based prefetching method named Multi-Order Context-based (MOC) prefetching to adopt multi-order context analysis to increase the context-based prefetching effectiveness. We have carried out simulation testing with the SPECCPU2006 benchmarks via an enhanced CMP$im simulator. The simulation results show that the proposed MOC prefetching method outperforms the existing single-order prefetching and reduces the data-access latency effectively.
Writing Approaches of Graduate Students

The writing approach framework provides a comprehensive perspective on college‐level academic writing based on the relationship of writers’ beliefs and strategies to the quality of written outcomes. However, despite increased demands for more and better writing at the graduate level, little is known about graduate‐level writing processes or about the beliefs of graduate students regarding writing. The goals of this project were the preliminary development of a factor analytic model of graduate writing processes, and of an inventory to measure writing strategies. The results support seven independent factors: elaborative, low self‐efficacy, no revision, intuitive, scientist, task‐oriented, and sculptor, with the intuitive factor predictive of an academic writing outcome. Suggestions are advanced for classroom instruction and for further research.
Using Curriculum-Based Measures With Postsecondary Students With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The purpose of this study was to provide preliminary evidence of the criterion-related validity of curriculum-based measurement (CBM) for reading, mathematics, and written expression with postsecondary students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID). The participants included 41 postsecondary students with ID enrolled in a 2-year certificate program at a large Midwestern university. CBMs were administered to participants using standardized procedures, and results were compared with performance on the Woodcock–Johnson Tests of Achievement. Descriptive statistics were calculated as were bivariate correlations between CBM measures and the content-appropriate criterion measure. Results are discussed in terms of the potential use of CBMs as indicators of academic performance for postsecondary students with ID.
Root hair growth in Arabidopsis thaliana is directed by calcium and an endogenous polarity.

Tip growth of plant cells has been suggested to be regulated by a tip-focused gradient in cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca2+]c). However, whether this gradient orients apical growth or follows the driving force for this process remains unknown. Using localized photoactivation of the caged calcium ionophore Br-A23187 we have been able to artificially generate an asymmetrical calcium influx across the root hair tip. This led to a change in the direction of tip growth towards the high point of the new [Ca2+]c gradient. Such reorientation of growth was transient and there was a return to the original direction within 15 min. Root hairs forced to change the direction of their growth by placing a mechanical obstacle in their path stopped, reoriented growth to the side, and grew past the mechanical blockage. However, as soon as the growing tip had cleared the obstacle, growth returned to the original direction. Confocal ratio imaging revealed that a tip-focused [Ca2+]c gradient was always centered at the site of active growth. When the root hair changed direction the gradient also reoriented, and when growth returned to the original direction, so did the [Ca2+]c gradient. This normal direction of apical growth of Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. root hairs was found to be at a fixed angle from the root of 85 ± 6.7 degrees. In contrast, Tradescantia virginiana (L.) pollen tubes that were induced to reorient by touch or localized activation of the caged ionophore, did not return to the original growth direction, but continued to elongate in their new orientation. These results suggest that the tip-focused [Ca2+]c gradient is an important factor in localizing growth of the elongating root hair and pollen tube to the apex. However, it is not the primary determinant of the direction of elongation in root hairs, suggesting that other information from the root is acting to continuously reset the growth direction away from the root surface.
One-Time Tillage of No-Till: Effects on Nutrients, Mycorrhizae, and Phosphorus Uptake

Stratification of nutrient availability, especially of P, that develops with continuous no-till (NT) can affect runoff nutrient concentration and possibly nutrient uptake. The effects of composted manure application and one-time tillage of NT on the distribution of soil chemical properties, root colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM), and plant P uptake were determined. Research was conducted on Typic Argiudoll and Moffic Hapludaff soils under rainfed corn (Zea mays L.) or sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench.] rotated with soybean [Glycine max (L.) Men.] in eastern Nebraska. Tillage treatments included NT, disk, chisel, moldboard plow (MP), and mini-moldboard plow (MMP). Subplots had either 0 or 87.4 kg P ha -I- applied in compost before tillage. Bray-P1 was five to 21 times as high for the 0- to 5-cm as compared with the 10- to 20-cm soil depth. Greater redistribution of nutrients and incorporation of compost P resulted from MP tillage than from other tillage treatments. One-time chisel or disk tillage did not effectively redistribute nutrients while MMP tillage had an intermediate effect. Compost application reduced AM colonization of roots at R6 for all crops. Tillage reduced AM colonization with reductions at R6 due to MP tillage of 58 to 87%. The tillage effect on colonization persisted through the second year with no indication of AM recovery. Root P concentration was increased by MP and was negatively correlated to colonization. Decreased colonization did not result in decreased plant P uptake. Infrequent MP tillage can reduce surface soil P and the potential for P loss in runoff, but may reduce AM colonization of the roots, possibly reducing P uptake with some low P soils. The results do not indicate any advantage to one-time tillage of NT if runoff P loss is not a concern.
Evaluation of strategic investments in information technology

Developing a strategic application ― intended to make a company more flexible, more responsive to customer needs, or more able to adapt to rapidly changing conditions in the competitive environment ― is fundamentally different from investments undertaken to automate the back office to reduce expenses or increase capacity. Alternative techniques for evaluating the business case for strategic systems have been developed and have worked well in practice. Several cases are presented
Is bereavement-related depression different than non-bereavement-related depression?

Background. This review tackles the question: 'Is bereavement related depression (BRD) the same or different from standard (non-bereavement-related) major depression (SMD)?' To answer this question, we examined published data on key characteristics that define and characterize SMD to assess whether they also characterize BRD. Method. We searched all English-language reports in Medline up to November 2006 to identify relevant studies. Bibliographies of located articles were searched for additional studies. Results. Consistent with the position that BRD is distinct from SMD, some, but not all, studies report that men are as likely as women to have BRD and that past or family histories of SMD do not predict BRD. With greater consistency, studies suggest that, like SMD, BRD is: more common in younger than in older adults, predicated by poor health or low social support, followed by recurrent episodes of major depressive episode (MDE), and associated with impaired immunological responses, altered sleep architecture, and responsivity to antidepressant treatment. Conclusions. Overall, the prevailing evidence more strongly supports similarities than differences between BRD and SMD. Because so few studies focus on BRD occurring within the first 2 months of bereavement, the period identified by the DSM to exclude the diagnosis of MDE, more research is needed specifically on this group to help us evaluate the validity of this important diagnostic convention.
Application of optical coherence tomography in nondestructive evaluation of material microstructure

Summary form only given. Techniques for nondestructive evaluation (NDE), testing, and inspection of parts during manufacturing and materials processing, in situ, or during design, is a key technology. The authors use optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a high-resolution, high-sensitivity imaging technology that is based on the coherence properties of light.
Biofilm-dependent and biofilm-independent mechanisms of transmission of Yersinia pestis by fleas.

Transmission of Yersinia pestis by fleas occurs by two basic mechanisms. The mechanism of early-phase transmission during the first week after the infectious blood meal has not been defined but does not depend on the ability of Y. pestis to grow in the form of a biofilm in the flea. In contrast, the second mechanism occurs only after Y. pestis has produced sufficient biofilm in the flea’s proventricular valve to interfere with normal blood feeding. In this review, I compare some of the knowns and unknowns regarding these two modes of transmission and discuss possible mechanisms for early-phase transmission.
Use of a commercial laser tracker for optical alignment

Laser trackers have been developed that project laser beams and use optical systems to provide three dimensional coordinate measurements. The laser trackers incorporate a servo system to steer a laser beam so that it tracks a retroreflector, such as a corner cube. The line of sight gimbal angles and the radial distance to the retroreflector are used to determine the coordinates of the retroreflector relative to the tracker. In this paper, we explore the use of the laser tracker to define the metrology for aligning optical systems, including the use of mirrors and windows. We discuss how to optimize the geometry to take advantage of the tracker’s most accurate measurements. We show how to use the tracker for measuring angles as well as points.
Knowledge Ontology: A Method for Empirical Identification of 'As-Is' Contextual Knowledge

In this paper, we consider existing approaches to ontology definition and validation. Popular techniques include the use of domain experts or reliance on formal logic. We consider these contemporary techniques, their motivation and limitations, and then suggest an empirical approach that statistically identifies knowledge ontology within contextual databases using factor analytic techniques. We find that this method improves upon the process of identifying existing, codified knowledge ontology, and that it can be integrated into other methods to improve upon the efficiency of knowledge ontology identification, validation, and evolution. It can facilitate collaboration and inter-organizational progress by providing a common foundation, empirically supported.
ANTS (HYMENOPTERA: FORMICIDAE) OF THE DRY TORTUGAS, THE OUTERMOST FLORIDA KEYS

We examined the distribution of ants on the Dry Tortugas, the outermost of the Florida Keys. These small islands are important nesting grounds for sea turtles and sea birds. We sampled ants on the five vegetated islands: Garden Key, Loggerhead Key, Bush Key, Long Key, and East Key. We found 17 ant species, seven of which had not been recorded from the Dry Tortugas. Paratrechina longicornis was common on four of five islands. Otherwise, the five islands had strikingly different ant faunas. On Garden Key, Solenopsis geminata was dominant, and Pheidole megacephala was absent. On Loggerhead Key and Bush Key, Ph. megacephala was dominant, and S. geminata was absent. On Long Key, vegetated primarily with mangrove, the most common ant was the arboreal Pseudomyrmex elongatus. On sparsely-vegetated East Key, all ants were uncommon. Twenty ant species are now known from the Dry Tortugas: eight New World and 12 Old World species. Only Solenopsis globularia is an undisputed Florida native. Florida specimens previously identified as C. tortuganus are actually Camponotus zonatus; true C. tortuganus are Bahamian. The two dominant ant species, Ph. megacephala and S. geminata, may pose a threat to native fauna, including sea turtle and sea bird nestlings.
Out of the Mouths of Babes: Oral Premalignant Lesions and Use of Alternative Tobacco Products

Premalignant lesions of the oral cavity represent an important target for cancer prevention. The two most important lesions are leukoplakia and erythroplakia (both can occur in the same lesion, sometimes called erythroleukoplakia). These lesions represent clinical rather than histological diagnoses
Pharmaceutical Counterfeiting and the Puzzle of Remedies

The term "counterfeiting" provokes wide-ranging and almost universally negative connotations, at least to those who are not profiting from it. It generates images of everything from faux-designer purses to fake Viagra. Current U.S. law sweeps too broadly in defining "counterfeiting," and, as a result, a gross disparity often exists between the level of moral culpability and actual harm caused by counterfeiting and the remedies and/or penalties that arise from it. To put it simply, current law both under- and over-penalizes counterfeiting. In its least virulent form, counterfeiting does not harm the consumer and, arguably, imposes a relatively minor cost on the trademark holder (particularly when compared to the remedies made available for the harm). If a defendant sells a cheap copy of a luxury good to the consumer, under circumstances such that the consumer knows exactly what she is buying, the consumer has suffered no injury. Although the trademark holder is, to put it mildly, unhappy about the existence of fake goods, it also has not lost a sale. The person who intentionally buys a cheap copy probably is not in the market for the real thing. Instead, the injury to the trademark holder is probably best characterized as a form of tarnishment: If a third party sees a person wearing a tacky-looking watch bearing a Rolex label, that third party may think less of Rolex watches as a result. At its worst, counterfeiting may be deadly to the consumer, particularly in the pharmaceutical context. When a drug is dispensed to a patient that lacks the active ingredient, or worse, contains an ingredient that is toxic to the patient, that patient may die as a result. If the counterfeit drug bears no copy of a trademark, then its sale is not actionable under the Lanham Act or the Trademark Counterfeiting Act (TCA), both of which allow for imposition of severe penalties. Federal criminal laws that exist specifically to combat pharmaceutical counterfeiting (with or without trademarks) are anemic by comparison. Moreover, although federal law permits trademark holders (or, in the case of criminal violations, the government) to file lawsuits and seek damages or penalties against drug counterfeiters, the law provides no avenue of relief for the consumer, who presumably must rely on state tort law to be made whole. The legal regime that exists to punish counterfeiters in the U.S. needs to be reformed. Too many resources are currently devoted to criminal prosecutions of those who do not pose a danger to society, or at least have given no indication of doing so based on the nature of their counterfeiting. To date, no one has been killed by a fake Gucci purse. On the other hand, the penalties and remedies available to deter and punish those who risk the lives of others as a result of their counterfeiting activity should be enhanced. The law should reflect that not all counterfeits are created equal.
Integrated process for the catalytic conversion of biomass-derived syngas into transportation fuels

Efficient synthesis of renewable fuels that will enable cost competitiveness with petroleum-derived fuels remains a grand challenge. In this paper, we report on an integrated catalytic approach for producing transportation fuels from biomass-derived syngas. This novel process represents an alternative to conventional fuel synthesis routes (e.g., Fischer–Tropsch, Methanol-to-Gasoline) that have drawbacks, particularly at the scale of biomass. Composition of the resulting hydrocarbon fuel can be modulated to produce predominantly middle distillates, which is constantly increasing in demand compared to gasoline fraction. In this process biomass-derived syngas is first converted over an Rh-based catalyst into a complex aqueous mixture of condensable C2+ oxygenated compounds (predominantly ethanol, acetic acid, acetaldehyde, ethyl acetate). This multi-component aqueous mixture then is fed to a second reactor loaded with a ZnxZryOz mixed oxide catalyst, which has tailored acid–base sites, to produce an olefin mixture rich in isobutene. The olefins then are oligomerized using a solid acid catalyst (e.g., Amberlyst-36) to form condensable olefins with molecular weights that can be targeted for gasoline, jet, and/or diesel fuel applications. The product rich in long-chain olefins (C7+) is finally sent to a fourth reactor required for hydrogenation of the olefins into paraffin fuels. Simulated distillation of the hydrotreated oligomerized liquid product indicates that ∼75% of the hydrocarbons (iso-paraffins and cyclic compounds) are in the jet-fuel range. Process optimization for the oligomerization step could further improve yield to the jet-fuel range. All of these catalytic steps have been demonstrated in sequence, thus providing proof-of-concept for a new integrated process for the production of drop-in biofuels. Overall, we demonstrate approximately 41% carbon efficiency for converting syngas into jet-range hydrocarbons. This unique and flexible process does not require external hydrogen and also could be applied to non-syngas derived feedstock, such as fermentation products (e.g., ethanol, acetic acid, etc.), other oxygenates, and mixtures thereof containing alcohols, acids, aldehydes and/or esters.
Deuterium He 3 Reaction

By the use of accelerated ${\mathrm{He}}^{3}$ ions, the reaction ${\mathrm{H}}^{2}({\mathrm{He}}^{3}, p){\mathrm{He}}^{4}$ has been studied in the energy range 100-800 kev (${\mathrm{He}}^{3}$ energy). The angular distribution of the protons was found to be isotropic at bombarding energies of 200, 290, and 350 kev. The reaction cross section has a peak of 695\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}14 millibarns as determined with reference to the peak value 5.00 barns for the comparison reaction, ${\mathrm{H}}^{3}({\mathrm{H}}^{2}, n){\mathrm{He}}^{4}$. The comparison was effected by alternately bombarding the same deuterium target with tritium and ${\mathrm{He}}^{3}$ ions, and counting the alpha particles. The peak occurred at 640-kev ${\mathrm{He}}^{3}$ ion bombarding energy.From considerations of the absolute value of the cross section, it is concluded that the resonance at 640 kev is associated with a $J=\frac{3}{2}$ level in the compound nucleus. The experimental shape of the peak is well fitted by resonance parameters in the one-level dispersion formula having the following values: interaction radius $R$, 5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}13}$ cm; reduced width for proton emission ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{p}$, 41.9 kev; reduced scattering width ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\ensuremath{\alpha}}$, 2930 kev; "formal" resonance energy in the center-of-mass system ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{s}$, 391 kev; energy of the level above the ground state of ${\mathrm{Li}}^{5}$: 16.2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3 Mev. These values agree within experimental error with analogous values associated with the similar resonance which occurs in the ${\mathrm{H}}^{2}({\mathrm{H}}^{3}, n){\mathrm{He}}^{4}$ reaction.
Workers Without Paid Sick Leave Less Likely To Take Time Off For Illness Or Injury Compared To Those With Paid Sick Leave

Paid sick leave is an important employer-provided benefit that helps people obtain health care for themselves and their dependents. But paid sick leave is not universally available to US workers. Little is known about paid sick leave and its relationship to health behaviors. Contrary to public health goals to reduce the spread of illness, our findings indicate that in 2013 both full- and part-time working adults without paid sick leave were more likely than workers with that benefit to attend work when ill. Those without paid sick leave were 3.0 times more likely to forgo medical care for themselves and 1.6 times more likely to forgo medical care for their family compared to working adults with paid sick leave benefits. Moreover, the lowest-income group of workers without paid sick leave were at the highest risk of delaying and forgoing medical care for themselves and their family members. Policy makers should consider the potential public health implications of their decisions when contemplating guarante...
A Note on the Range of Peak Amplitudes of Recorded Accelerations, Velocities and Displacement With Respect to the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale

Correlations of the logarithms of acceleration, velocity and displacement peak amplitudes of recorded strong earthquake ground motion with the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale, I MM , are characterized by large scatter of data points. For a given I MM this scatter is equal to about one order of magnitude on the linear amplitude scale. Correlations have been presented that are valid for the range of intensities IV ≤ I MM ≤ VIII, which correspond to 187 strong-motion accelerograms recorded during 57 earthquakes in the Western United States. Extrapolation of these correlations on the logarithmic scale to the largest Modified Mercalli intensity level I MM = XII lead to strong-motion amplitudes which are not contradicted by other independent estimates of these largest amplitudes.
Digital Holography for High-resolution, Multi-aperture Laser Radar

Active remote sensing challenges using multi-aperture imaging experiments are described. The image resolution is limited by the accuracy in phasing all sub-apertures together. Efforts to overcome technical hurdles in achieving high resolution imagery are reported.
Rational Synthesis of Three-Dimensional Nanosuperstructures for Applications in Energy Storage and Conversion

The ever-increasing fossil fuel demand with aroused environmental problems drives the intensive exploration of renewable and environmentally benign energy technologies. Due to the unique chemical and physical properties, 3-D nanostructure materials received particular attention for energy storage and conversion devices. However, the synthesis of 3-D nanosuperstructures (NSSs) remains a daunting task. In this mini review, we will discuss some recent achievements in rational and innovative approaches for fabricating NSSs assisted by designed catalysts both in aqueous solutions and vapor phases. Two types of 3-D NSSs are demonstrated; one is semiconductor ZnO, and the other is graphene/thin graphite, both of which show high crystallinity and controlled dimensions in 3-D. The obtained 3-D ZnO NSSs were applied for enhancing solar-assisted water oxidation efficiency, which offer 150% improvement compared with simple nanowire arrays obtained at the same condition by using the commonly employed 0-D dot catalysts. The 3-D freestanding thin graphite with two levels of porosity was functionalized with thin nickel hydroxide nanoplates [Ni(OH) 2] and applied as electrodes for alkaline batteries. The electrodes are binder-free and provide a remarkable discharge capacity of 480 mA h $\mbox{g}^{-1}$ at a rate of 1.5 A $\mbox{g}^{-1}$ . Compared with previous reports, they also exhibit excellent cyclability with 97.5% capacitance retention after 4000 cycles. The synthesis mechanism of 3-D superstructures could inspire the manufacturing of 3-D nanomaterials with high efficiency, large scales, and controllability.
Crystalline regions of Bombyx mori silk fibroin may exhibit β-turn and β-helix conformations

Modeling of the (GSGAGA)n consensus sequence of the crystalline region of Bombyx mori silk fibroin revealed two novel conformations. One was a series of four-residue β-turns, consistent with published circular dichroic spectra and nuclear magnetic resonance data for the water-soluble silk I that is found in the abdominal glands of the silkworm larvae before spinning. The other conformation was a single-chain β-helix having 4.3 residues per turn, consistent with the circular dichroic spectra and water insolubility of silk II, the fibrous form of silk fibroin. Computer modeling of these structures provided a conformational energy of −9.9 kcal mol-1 residue-1 for an isolated strand of continuous β-turns, −11.7 kcal mol-1 residue-1 for a strand of β-turns on the edge of a sheet of parallel strands, −14.9 kcal mol-1 residue-1 for a strand of β-turns embedded in a parallel array of β-turns, and −13.0 kcal mol-1 residue-1 for an isolated, right-handed β-helix. These values are consistent with the transformation ...
Biliary and Vascular Changes

The three main structures of the portal tract – hepatic artery, portal vein, and bile duct – are susceptible to injury from a variety of pathologic processes. The biliary tree is by far the most commonly damaged of the three, and biliary diseases will constitute the bulk of this chapter. Aside from systemic diseases involving the liver, there are relatively few entities that cause microscopic changes to the hepatic artery and portal vein. This is also true of the central veins, which will be discussed in this chapter as well.
State estimation and fusion over long-haul links under linear constraints

We consider a number of sensors deployed over a large geographical area for tracking a target with linear constraints on its motion dynamics which are specified by Kalman filter conditions. The state estimates from the sensors are sent over long-haul networks to a remote fusion center, where they are fused to improve the tracking accuracy. The mismatches among the sensors in incorporating the target motion constraints into their state estimates, along with the information loss over the long-haul links, need to be accounted for by the state estimation and fusion algorithms. We propose using the null-space method to incorporate these constraints into three fusion algorithms based on information matrix, simple linear fuser and covariance intersection methods. Then using a tracking example, we study the impact of these factors and compare the accuracy of these fusion algorithms. Results show that incorporating knowledge of constraints directly or indirectly at the fusion center can effectively improve the overall tracking accuracy under various degrees of long-haul communication loss.
Prospective Evaluation of Structural Allograft Transplantation for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talar Shoulder

Background:Structural or bulk osteochondral allograft transplantation for shoulder talar osteochondral lesions as a salvage procedure has demonstrated efficacy in several retrospective reviews. The...
Plant Community Chemical Composition Influences Trembling Aspen ( Populus tremuloides ) Intake by Sheep

Nutrients and plant secondary compounds in aspen (Populus tremuloides) may interact with nutrients in the surrounding vegetation to influence aspen use by herbivores. Thus, this study aimed to determine aspen intake and preference by sheep in response to supplementary nutrients or plant secondary compounds (PSC) present in aspen trees. Thirty-two lambs were randomly assigned to one of four molasses-based supplementary feeds to a basal diet of tall fescue hay (N = 8) during three experiments. The supplements were as follows: (1) high-protein (60% canola meal), (2) a PSC (6% quebracho tannins), (3) 25% aspen bark, and (4) control (100% molasses). Supplements were fed from 0700 to 0900, then lambs were fed fresh aspen leaves collected from stands containing high (Experiment 1, 2) or low (Experiment 3) concentrations of phenolic glycosides (PG). In Experiment 2, lambs were simultaneously offered aspen, a forb (Lathyrus pauciflorus), and a grass (Bromus inermis) collected from the aspen understory. Animals supplemented with high protein or tannins showed greater intake of aspen leaves than animals supplemented with bark or the control diet (P < 0.05), likely because some condensed tannins have a positive effect on protein nutrition and protein aids in PSC detoxification. Overall, animals supplemented with bark showed the lowest aspen intake, suggesting PSC in bark and aspen leaves had additive inhibitory effects on intake. In summary, these results suggest that not only the concentration but also the types and proportions of nutrients and chemical defenses available in the plant community influence aspen use by herbivores.
Implementation of RSA

Public key Cryptography, also known as asymmetric encryption is a form of cryptosystem which uses two keys, public key and private key for encryption and decryption respectively. This type of cryptosystem helps in achieving confidentiality, authentication or both. Public key cryptography includes key exchange, digital signatures, and encryption of blocks of data. Among the public key cryptosystem algorithms, RSA is the most widely used. It is a secure method for transmitting data. It is a block cipher system, which is based on number theory. RSA includes Key generation, encryption and decryption steps. The security of RSA depends on the factorization of numbers. Many efficient algorithms were developed to enhance the concept of number theory in RSA and to overcome the attacks. In this paper, we discuss the Public-key cryptosystems and the implementation of RSA algorithm in detail and the use of RSA in current software.
Management of Benign and Malignant Pancreatic Duct Strictures

The diagnosis and management of pancreatic strictures, whether malignant or benign, remain challenging. The last 2 decades have seen dramatic progress in terms of both advanced imaging and endoscopic therapy. While plastic stents remain the cornerstone of the treatment of benign strictures, the advent of fully covered metal stents has initiated a new wave of interest in calibrating the pancreatic duct with fewer sessions. In malignant disease, palliation remains the priority and further data are necessary before offering systematic pancreatic stenting.