cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Empirical Bayes vs. Fully Bayes Variable Selection

Abstract For the problem of variable selection for the normal linear model, fixed penalty selection criteria such as AIC, C p , BIC and RIC correspond to the posterior modes of a hierarchical Bayes model for various fixed hyperparameter settings. Adaptive selection criteria obtained by empirical Bayes estimation of the hyperparameters have been shown by George and Foster [2000. Calibration and Empirical Bayes variable selection. Biometrika 87(4), 731–747] to improve on these fixed selection criteria. In this paper, we study the potential of alternative fully Bayes methods, which instead margin out the hyperparameters with respect to prior distributions. Several structured prior formulations are considered for which fully Bayes selection and estimation methods are obtained. Analytical and simulation comparisons with empirical Bayes counterparts are studied.
How Different Is California? A Comparison Of U.S. Physician Organizations

ABSTRACT: Data from a national study of medical groups and independent practice associations are used to examine the extent to which California physician organizations are different from physician ...
Camera-IMU-based localization: Observability analysis and consistency improvement

This work investigates the relationship between system observability properties and estimator inconsistency for a Vision-aided Inertial Navigation System (VINS). In particular, first we introduce a new methodology for determining the unobservable directions of nonlinear systems by factorizing the observability matrix according to the observable and unobservable modes. Subsequently, we apply this method to the VINS nonlinear model and determine its unobservable directions analytically. We leverage our analysis to improve the accuracy and consistency of linearized estimators applied to VINS. Our key findings are evaluated through extensive simulations and experimental validation on real-world data, demonstrating the superior accuracy and consistency of the proposed VINS framework compared to standard approaches.
Comparison of cadmium biosorption by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria from activated sludge

Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria were isolated from activated sludge and used to evaluate differences in cadmium biosorption. Gram-positive bacteria exhibited approximately 20% more cadmium biosorption at 30°C and pH 6.6 than Gram-negatives. Biosorption was largely passive in both cases, although metabolic uptake appeared to occur to a higher extent with Gram-positive bacteria.
Volume-Outcome Relationships in Neurosurgery

For a variety of neurosurgical conditions, increasing surgeon and hospital volumes correlate with improved outcomes, such as mortality, complication rates, length of stay, hospital charges, and discharge disposition. Neurosurgeons can improve patient outcomes at the population level by changing practice and referral patterns to regionalize care for select conditions at high-volume specialty treatment centers. Individual practitioners should be aware of where they fall on the volume spectrum and understand the implications of their practice and referral habits on their patients.
From compact point defects to extended structures in silicon

First-principles studies of the formation and dynamics of silicon interstitial-clusters suggest a possible growth mechanism of silicon interstitial-chains as seen in macroscopic 311 planar defects. The relative populations of the three lowest-energy silicon tri-interstitials equilibrate within a few microseconds. Unfortunately, the tri-interstitial chain is unstable, quickly decaying to the ground-state interstitial. However, the four-interstitial chain with escape barriers of 0.54 eV is relatively stable and can be formed by exothermic capture of an interstitial by the ground-state tri-interstitial. This first successful step seems capable of growing longer chains. If one chain eases the formation of a second parallel chain, this may start the process of forming 311 planar defects.
Comparisons of sensory descriptive flavor and texture profiles of cooked broiler breast fillets categorized by raw meat color lightness values

ABSTRACT Three replicate trials were conducted to compare sensory descriptive profiles of cooked broiler breast fillets categorized by raw meat color lightness or CIE L* values. In each trial, 20 light, 20 dark, and 30 random fillets (42-d-old birds and deboned at 6 to 8 h postmortem) were obtained from a commercial processing plant. On return to the laboratory, CIE L* a* b* (medial side), pH, and weights were measured. Ten fillets for each of 3 lightness categories were chosen based on the L* values as follows: light, L* > 60; medium (middle of random group), 55
Joint Estimation of the Parameters of Two Normal Populations

Abstract The problem of estimating a common mean from two independent sample means often arises. This paper describes an iteration method of jointly estimating a common mean and the individual variances of two normal populations. These estimates are either the maximum likelihood estimates or differ only slightly from them.
Evidence against orientation of water in rat phrenic nerve.

Chapman and McLauchlan1 reported that the proton magnetic resonance (PMR) spectrum of the rabbit sciatic nerve exhibited a doublet structure with the spacing between components showing an angular dependence of the form (3 cos2 θ−1), where θ was the angle between the sample axis and the direction of the external magnetic field. They suggested that this splitting arises from the direct dipole–dipole interaction between the two protons of the water molecules which is not averaged to zero because of partial orientation of the bulk water within the nerve2. If this interpretation is correct, it would be of interest for the information it provides about the internal organization of the nerve tissue.
Time- and concentration-dependent apoptosis and necrosis induced by free and HPMA copolymer-bound doxorubicin in human ovarian carcinoma cells.

A2780 sensitive and A2780/AD doxorubicin (DOX) resistant human ovarian carcinoma cells were exposed to different concentrations (0.25, 0.5, 1, 5 and 10×IC50) of free and HPMA copolymer-bound DOX for 12, 24, 36, 48, 60 and 72 h. Apoptosis and necrosis were evaluated using the FITC-conjugated annexin V and propidium iodide staining. The data obtained showed that the induction of apoptosis and necrosis by both free DOX and HPMA copolymer-bound DOX were time- and concentration-dependent. The data also showed significant differences between the drugs. It was found that: (i) under the action of HPMA copolymer-bound doxorubicin the alterations in the plasma membrane permeability preceded disturbances in cellular metabolism; (ii) HPMA copolymer-bound doxorubicin kills the cells mainly by necrosis; (iii) HPMA copolymer-bound doxorubicin is a more effective anticancer drug than free doxorubicin.
An «hourglass-like» feature in the photoperiodic time measurement in Diatraea grandiosella (Pyralidae)

Abstract Photoperiodic time measurement of Diatraea grandiosella , a Pyralid moth, was investigated for its role in the determination of diapause by using various night-interruption protocols. The photoperiodic-response curve showed a temperature dependence under short days, whereas at long days it was stable in the range between 20 and 30°C. A light pulse averted diapause most effectively when it was placed 6 h after lights-off. Earlier pulses were less effective but gradually increased in effectiveness as the time of the pulse approached the critical time, i.e. 6 h after lights-off. A strong conversion in response appeared as the pulse passed the critical time. The same response pattern was observed both in diapause induction and termination. The species required a long light pulse to avert diapause completely, even if the light pulse was placed during the critical time; 45 min was required to reverse diapause in 50% of the individuals. The most crucial event for photoperiodic time measurement in this species was whether a night phase 6–7.5 h after lights-off was illuminated or not. This hourglass-like feature was also shown in more complex night-interruption protocols with 2–3 light pulses. A possible relation of this phenomenon to the cricadian pacemaker was sought. The Dual System Theory failed to account for most of the features for the photoperiodic time measurements of D. grandiosella found in this study.
Association between the Levels of Biogenic Amines and Superoxide Anion Production in Brain Regions of Rats after Subchronic Exposure to TCDD

The effects of TCDD on the distribution of biogenic amines and production of superoxide anion (SA) in different brain regions of rats have been studied after subchronic exposure. Groups of females Sprague-Dawley rats were administered daily dose of 46ng TCDD/(kgday) (treated groups), or the vehicle used to dissolve TCDD (control group), for 90 days. The rats were sacrificed at the end of the exposure period and their brains were dissected into different regions including, hippocampus (H), cerebral cortex (Cc), cerebellum (C), and brain stem (Bs). The levels of different biogenic amines and some of their metabolites, including, norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA), 3,4-dihydroxy phenyl acetic acid (DOPAC), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-phenyl acetic acid (HVA), 5-hydroxy tryptamine (5-HT), and 5-hydroxy indole 3-acetic acid (5-HIAA), were determined in those brain regions, using a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system with an electrochemical detector. SA production was also determined in those regions, using the cytochrome c reduction method. Results of analyses indicate significant increases in the levels of DA, NE and DOPAC in H, NE and HVA in Cc, NE and DA in Bs and NE in C. SA production was significantly increased in H and Cc, but not in Bs or C. The results also indicated strong correlations between DA and DOPAC, and SA and NE in all of the brain regions, and also between SA and 5-HT/HIAA in H and Cc. These results may indicate the contribution of biogenic amines, especially NE and 5-HT/HIAA to SA overproduction in some brain regions and may also indicate the potential of long term neurotoxic effects of those biogenic amines, in response to subchronic exposure to TCDD.
Recognition and Differential Diagnosis of Enlarged Extraocular Muscles in Computed Tomography

We found enlargement of the extraocular muscles in 70 patients out of 603 orbit studies, of whom 310 had exophthalmos. The majority (46 of 70) had the eye signs of Graves' disease. Arteriovenous malformations and carotid cavernous fistulas can cause enlargement of the extraocular muscles by a diffuse increase in orbital venous pressure, Acute orbital myositis can be distinguished from other forms of pseudotumor by the presence of a single enlarge extraocular muscle with associated inflammatory findings which responds to corticosteroid therapy. Neoplasms may invade extraocular muscles or compress their venous drainage causing secondary muscle enlargement. In all these patients the presence of a mass was correctly identified. The ability of the computed tomography scanner to recognize abnormalities of the extraocular muscles represents a significant advance in classification and diagnosis of the causes of exophthalmos.
Demystifying biology: Did life begin as a complex system?

The process of condensation of an amorphous solid into a rigid matrix can often trap molecules in reversible binding sites. Exchange of the same molecular species with such sites is known to be sensitive to small chemical differences and to distinguish between enantiomers. In addition to their usefulness in chromatographic processes, such materials can separate, by solid phase extraction, specific compounds from complex mixtures. Furthermore, the trapped molecules can have their reactions guided and catalytically changed. The combination of this spontaneously formed system of templates and catalytic sites may support a type of replication cycle, and suggests some pathways from simple chemistry toward the complexities of biology. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 11: 30–35, 2005
A relationship between avian carcasses and living invertebrates in the epizootiology of avian botulism.

A survey of the sources of Clostridium botulinum type C toxin possibly utilized as food by aquatic birds in an epizootic area of avian botulism in northern Utah showed that living aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates normally found in close association with dead, decomposing birds commonly carried the toxin. Of 461 samples associated with 21 species of avian carcasses, 198 were toxin-positive. Invertebrate species not normally scavengers of vertebrate tissues were less commonly and less highly toxic, particularly when captured 30 cm or more from a carcass; six of 237 samples of such aquatic invertebrates contained low-level toxin. Of the species tested, blow fly larvae (Calliphoridae) were the most consistently and highly toxic, although others, particularly adult and larval stages of several species of beetles (Coleoptera), contained toxin at levels probably significant in the epizootiology of the disease. An estimated 0.05 to 0.25 g of the most toxic fly larvae or 15 g of the most toxic beetles tested ...
Experiential Learning Programs for the Future of Engineering Education

The need for 21st century engineers to be educated as creative innovators is discussed. Three complementary experiential learning programs that help engineering students learn to stretch beyond their comfort zones are described: a multidisciplinary design program; an entrepreneurship program; and an international engineering program. These three interdisciplinary programs each address common educational needs: to create flexible, creative, self-actualized change agents. The approaches we are taking to implement and institutionalize these in a large, comprehensive, research oriented university are described.
Biological and environmental factors controlling root dynamics and function: Effects of root ageing and soil moisture

Understanding factors controlling root dynamics and functioning can lead to more efficient and profitable vineyard management. However, our current understanding of root dynamics and their regulation by plant and environmental factors is limited, particularly under field conditions. This paper presents current understanding of grape root dynamics, highlighting studies using minirhizotron cameras, which directly assess root dynamics, and experiments on roots of known age, which link root phenology and function. Data summarised here show timing of grape root production varies widely among different regions, as well as among rootstocks and canopy management systems in the same region. Timing of production can be responsive to differences in soil moisture. Lifespan of grape roots, however, appears less affected by soil moisture because of nocturnal hydraulic redistribution. Root function, such as capacity for P and N uptake, declines rapidly with root age. Differences in timing and spatial distribution of root production can effect above-ground growth and vineyard water-use efficiency. Improving our understanding of when roots grow and are functionally active in agricultural systems can lead to improved water and fertiliser applications, and more precise vineyard management. Because both environmental and biological factors affect root dynamics, simple predictions of timing of root production or standing populations with shoot development are unlikely to be achieved. However, with multi-year data on root dynamics, and environmental and biological factors, regionally specific models of root populations and their functioning may be possible to develop.
Oxide-confined high index contrast ridge waveguide curved resonator laser diodes

A simple, novel self-aligned deeply-etched plus wet thermally oxidized ridge waveguide fabrication process is demonstrated which enables high-index-contrast, low loss curved resonator GRINSCH lasers with a bend radius as low as 10 /spl mu/m.
Current concepts in the mechanisms and management of drug-induced QT prolongation and torsade de pointes

Drug-induced long QT syndrome is characterized by a prolonged corrected QT interval (QTc) and increased risk of a polymorphic ventricular tachycardia known as torsade de pointes (TdP). We review mechanisms, predispositions, culprit agents, and management of this potentially fatal phenomenon. Virtually all drugs that prolong QTc block the rapid component of the delayed rectifier current (I(kr)). Some drugs prolong QTc in a dose-dependent manner, others do so at any dose. Most patients that develop drug-induced TdP have underlying risk factors. Female sex is the most common. Implicated drugs include class 1A and III antiarrhythmics, macrolide antibiotics, pentamidine, antimalarials, antipsychotics, arsenic trioxide, and methadone. Treatment for TdP includes immediate defibrillation for hemodynamic instability and intravenous magnesium sulfate. Potassium levels should be maintained in the high normal range, and all QT prolonging agents must be promptly discontinued.
Direct Error Rate Minimization for Statistical Machine Translation

Minimum error rate training is often the preferred method for optimizing parameters of statistical machine translation systems. MERT minimizes error rate by using a surrogate representation of the search space, such as N-best lists or hypergraphs, which only offer an incomplete view of the search space. In our work, we instead minimize error rate directly by integrating the decoder into the minimizer. This approach yields two benefits. First, the function being optimized is the true error rate. Second, it lets us optimize parameters of translations systems other than standard linear model features, such as distortion limit. Since integrating the decoder into the minimizer is often too slow to be practical, we also exploit statistical significance tests to accelerate the search by quickly discarding unpromising models. Experiments with a phrase-based system show that our approach is scalable, and that optimizing the parameters that MERT cannot handle brings improvements to translation results.
Quantitative trait loci mapping and gene network analysis implicate protocadherin-15 as a determinant of brain serotonin transporter expression

Presynaptic serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) transporters (SERT) regulate 5-HT signaling via antidepressant-sensitive clearance of released neurotransmitter. Polymorphisms in the human SERT gene (SLC6A4) have been linked to risk for multiple neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and autism. Using BXD recombinant inbred mice, a genetic reference population that can support the discovery of novel determinants of complex traits, merging collective trait assessments with bioinformatics approaches, we examine phenotypic and molecular networks associated with SERT gene and protein expression. Correlational analyses revealed a network of genes that significantly associated with SERT mRNA levels. We quantified SERT protein expression levels and identified region- and gender-specific quantitative trait loci (QTLs), one of which associated with male midbrain SERT protein expression, centered on the protocadherin-15 gene (Pcdh15), overlapped with a QTL for midbrain 5-HT levels. Pcdh15 was also the only QTL-associated gene whose midbrain mRNA expression significantly associated with both SERT protein and 5-HT traits, suggesting an unrecognized role of the cell adhesion protein in the development or function of 5-HT neurons. To test this hypothesis, we assessed SERT protein and 5-HT traits in the Pcdh15 functional null line (Pcdh15(av-) (3J) ), studies that revealed a strong, negative influence of Pcdh15 on these phenotypes. Together, our findings illustrate the power of multidimensional profiling of recombinant inbred lines in the analysis of molecular networks that support synaptic signaling, and that, as in the case of Pcdh15, can reveal novel relationships that may underlie risk for mental illness.
Effect of growth hormone on the nitrogen excretion and body weight of adult female rats

The fact that the hypophyseal growth hormone produces nitrogen retention and body weight gain in rats is well established. That it is capable of producing continuous growth in normal adult female rats has likewise been established (Evans, Simpson, and Li, 1948). Using a crude growth hormone preparation, Collip (1934) found that when normal rats were continually injected with the same amount of hormone they became refractory to the nitrogen-retaining, weightenhancing effect of the preparation. The present study was undertaken to establish whether the continual injection into normal rats of small doses of pure growth hormone would be associated with the development of a refractory state to either the weight-increasing or the nitrogen-retaining effect of the hormone. methods The hormone preparation used was prepared according to the previouslypublished method (Li, Evans and Simpson, 1945) and ½ of the total daily dose was given intraperitoneally each morning and evening.
Yield Improvement Using Fail Signature Detection Algorithm (FSDA)

An effective yield ramp methodology is demonstrated using fail signature detection algorithm (FSDA). Wafers with similar yield spatial patterns are grouped together to find stronger correlations to equipment data. Many signals that would have been missed otherwise were found leading to significant yield improvement
The thickness criterion for single-layer radar absorbents

Radar absorbent materials have been classically regarded as "resonant" when they are a quarter-wavelength thick. However, the actual thickness that minimizes the reflectance of a material is hardly ever a quarter-wavelength. If the material is dominantly magnetic in character, the required thickness for minimum reflection may even exceed a half-wavelength.
Omni-Cam: An autonomous free-descent omni-directional camera for measuring radiance in marine environments

To measure oceanic radiance and hence, the pelagic environment of marine cephalopods, we have built a new underwater multiple camera system that consists of a glass sphere that houses 6 machine vision cameras each capable of outputting uncompressed 2 megapixel images at 60 Hz. The cameras are arranged so that their fields of view are all orthogonal, pointing along the positive and negative directions of the principal Cartesian axes (+/− x, +/− y, and +/− z). Taking all of the camera data together, the light field incident on the Omni-directional camera system can be recorded. The system was configured for autonomous operation with batteries, computers, cameras, and ancillary electronics inside the 17” glass sphere. Preliminary data, recorded in both a pelagic and benthic environment, indicate that the data acquired by the system can provide interesting insights into spatial and temporal fluctuations in underwater animal habitats.
PRECISION, SELF-CONSISTENT THERMODYNAMICS FOR SUPERFLUID HELIUM FROM SOUND VELOCITY MEASUREMENTS

Measurements of the different sound velocities of superfluid 4He have been used to sell-consistently determine all the equilibrium thermodynamic properties of the superfluid. The precision of the results, typically 0.3%, represents an order-of-magnitude improvement over a significant portion of the existing data and has eliminated some discrepancies as large as (10-15)%. The sound velocity data consists of first-, second-, and fourth-sound velocities measured simultaneously at more than 400 points in the P-T plane about 1.2 K. Equations of two-fluid hydrodynamics are used to convert the sound velocities to thermodynamic quantities, including the density, thermal expansion coefficient, normal-fluid fraction, entropy, specific heats, and compressibility.
Nasal carriage of Streptococcus pneumoniae in healthy children and adults in northern Taiwan

A total of 427 subjects were surveyed for the carriage of Streptococcus pneumoniae before the introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in northern Taiwan. Positive results were identified in 27% of 94 children attending 6 classes in a child care center (CCC), 14% of 122 pupils attending 4 classes in 2 elementary schools, and 1.4% of 74 adolescents attending 3 classes in a junior middle school. None of 137 health care workers working in neonatal intensive care units of a university-affiliated hospital was colonized with S. pneumoniae. Three (12%) of 25 isolates from the children attending the CCC were susceptible to penicillin (MIC b0.1 μg/mL), whereas 8 (44%) of 18 isolates from the pupils and adolescents were susceptible (P = 0.0312). Of the 43 isolates, 11 serotypes were identified and serotypes/serogroups 6 (13 isolates), 23 (10 isolates), and 19 (7 isolates) were the 3 most common serotypes/serogroups. The genotypes of the 43 isolates were diverse, but it was not infrequently seen that several isolates from the subjects in a single class shared a common genotype. Conclusively, the carriage rate of S. pneumoniae is inversely correlated with the age of the subjects. The isolates from the children attending the CCC had a significantly higher penicillin-nonsusceptible rate than those from the pupils and adolescents. Transmission of the same clone in a single class may have frequently occurred.
Interaction of closely spaced resonances in degenerate four-wave-mixing spectroscopy

The interaction of two closely spaced resonances in degenerate four-wave-mixing spectra is investigated theoretically. Degenerate four-wave-mixing spectra for the phase-conjugate geometry (counterpropagating pump beams) are calculated by integrating the time-dependent density-matrix equations at numerous grid points along the phase-matching axis and summing the polarization contribution from each of these grid points. Both purely homogeneously broadened resonances and resonances that are both collision and Doppler broadened are considered. The homogeneously broadened results are found to agree with the results of the widely used Abrams–Lind expression for the case of stationary absorbers exposed to a steady-state excitation. We examine the effects of power broadening, pressure broadening, transition dipole moment, and population on the spectra of two neighboring homogeneously broadened resonances. As the laser power is increased, the real parts of the resonance susceptibilities destructively interfere with each other in the region between the lines, resulting in a significant and persistent dip in reflectivity. When Doppler broadening is included in the calculations, similar interference effects are observed, although at first the interference dip begins to disappear until the homogeneous part of the line shapes is broadened significantly by saturation. Using this numerical approach, we obtain good agreement with experimental results of primarily Doppler-broadened neighboring resonances.
Bootstrapped Insights into Empirical Applications of Stochastic Dominance

Bootstrapping, a very versatile statistical technique, significantly amplifies the understanding and success of empirical applications of stochastic dominance. Its ability to calculate the standard deviations of order statistics reveals the uncertainty of the critical estimates of the tails of cumulative density functions. Understanding this uncertainty reveals why a wide variety of tail shapes all cause a notable loss in power for stochastic dominance tests. Simulations show that the smoothing inherent in bootstrapping can significantly increase the power of the tests when dominance exists in the population.
Continuous coordination within the context of cooperative and human aspects of software engineering

We have developed software tools that aim to support the cooperative software engineering tasks and promote an awareness of social dependencies that is essential to successful coordination. The tools share common characteristics that can be traced back to the principles of the Continuous Coordination (CC) paradigm. However, the development of each sprung from carrying out a different set of activities during its development process. In this paper, we outline the principles of the CC paradigm, the tools that implement these principles and focus on the social aspects of software engineering. Finally, we discuss the socio-technical and human-centered processes we adopted to develop these tools. Our conclusion is that the cooperative dimension of our tools represents the cooperation between researchers, subjects, and field sites. Our conclusion suggests that the development processes adopted to develop like-tools need to reflect this cooperative dimension.
Regression of Rous Sarcomas in Two Lines of Chickens

Abstract A genetic difference between two lines of chickens in the incidence of regression of Rous sarcomas was found.
The intraparotid facial nerve schwannoma: a diagnostic and management conundrum.

Abstract Objectives The aims of the study were (1) to review the management strategy and clinical outcomes of all intraparotid facial nerve (FN) schwannomas (PFNSs) treated at a single tertiary academic center from 1975 to 2010 and (2) to summarize all previously reported cases of PFNS in the international literature. Study design A retrospective cohort study and literature review. Methods Fifteen patients were diagnosed and treated at the authors' institution from 1975 to 2010. In addition, 124 published cases were systematically reviewed. Results The most common presentation of PFNS was a painless parotid mass with normal FN function. Eccentric, loosely attached intraparotid tumors underwent gross total resection with nerve preservation granting satisfactory postoperative FN function, whereas “inseparable” intraparotid tumors were observed in 8 cases with stable long-term size. Lesions that extended into the fallopian canal underwent complete resection with FN sacrifice and nerve grafting in 10 cases, whereas 1 patient received subtotal resection of the intraparotid portion with stereotactic radiotherapy targeting the intratemporal component. Conclusions Intraparotid FN schwannomas present similar to other primary salivary gland neoplasms, making an early diagnosis challenging. Intraoperative recognition of gross tumor characteristics and early histologic diagnosis with strategic biopsy are critical. Information including tumor location and extent, preoperative FN function, and the gross relationship between the tumor and the FN may guide the surgeon toward an optimal treatment plan emphasizing long-term neurologic preservation.
Variations of Language Learning Strategy Use among Three Colleges at a Private Four-Year Technology University in Taiwan.

This study aims to examine the college students in Taiwan for the attributes of how their English test scores are being affected by language learning strategy use. The university is recognized as a second-tier technology university in Taiwan, as the students are considered to have low levels of English proficiency and learning motivation. A group of 156 students from three colleges (Engineering, Business and Management, and Humanity and Social Science) participated in the study. The result found that the students from Humanity and Social Science have the highest mean scores on their English tests and the highest level language learning strategies among the three colleges at the university. Cognitive strategy is found to be the only statistically significant difference among the study students from three colleges; the other five strategies are not found to be statisically significant. Compensation strategy is found to be most frequently used by all of the students. Cognitive and metacognitive strategies are found to be the least used among the study group.
A WATER-TURBINE DRIVEN PROPELLER FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE SHIP PROPULSION

The feasibility of a water-turbine driven propeller is investigated for high performance craft. The proposed system uses a gas turbine driven pump installed in the craft. The high pressure output from this pump is used to spin a ducted marine propeller by means of an impulse turbine attached to a ring around the propeller's tips. This system appears to be attractive for crafts operating at speeds up to 50 knots. It also appears to offer an appreciable reduction in propulsive machinery weight as well as elimination of mechanical transmissions and reduction gears. Propulsive efficiencies of the order of 43 to 46 percent are attainable. A point design for a 120 ton, 40 knot hydrofoil is presented.
Anti-Inulin [β-(2→1)-Linked Polyfructose] and Anti-Grass Levan [β-(2→6)-Linked Polyfructose] Antibody Response in Mice

Anti-inulin [beta-(2 --> 1) polyfructosan Brucella abortus (InuBA)] and anti-grass levan [beta-(2 --> 6) polyfructosan] antibody responses in BALB/c and C57BL mice and in their F(1) and backcross progeny, as well as in immunoglobulin congenic and Bailey recombinant inbred strains derived from BALB/c and C57BL mice, were examined. The anti-inulin antibodies could accommodate both beta-(2 --> 1)- and beta-(2 --> 6)-linked polyfructosans, and 97% of the anti-inulin plaque-forming cells (PFC) from BALB/c mice expressed the cross-reactive idiotypes (InuIdX) shared by the BALB/c inulin- and levan-binding myeloma proteins. Of the C57BL mice, only 25% produced high anti-inulin response, and none exhibited the InuIdX of BALB/c anti-inulin antibodies. The percentages of InuIdX(+) anti-inulin PFC were also examined in other strains with high anti-inulin response. In C58 and AL mice, 80% of anti-inulin PFC were InuIdX(+), whereas in A/He and RIII mice, only 40% were InuIdX(+). All strains examined developed high anti-grass levan response, and the antibodies were specific for beta-(2 --> 6) structures and did not exhibit InuIdX. Comparison of the magnitude of the anti-inulin antibody titers in response to InuBA in BALB/c, C57BL, and their F(1) and backcross progeny, as well as in immunoglobulin congenic (i.e., B.C-8, BAB-14, and C.B-20) and recombinant inbred strains derived from BALB/c and C57BL mice, showed that all mice having the IgCH(a)(BALB/c) allotype gave high anti-inulin response. In addition to the InuIdX structural genes, the effects of allotype-linked or unlinked "regulatory" genes were also indicated by the lower anti-inulin response in B.C-8 and BAB-14 mice compared with BALB/c mice and the higher anti-inulin response in C.B-20 mice compared with C57BL mice. A multigene interaction in controlling the production of the anti-inulin antibodies was implicated.
Effect of Corn Hybrids Expressing the Coleopteran-Specific Cry3Bb1 Protein for Corn Rootworm Control on Aboveground Insect Predators

Field and laboratory studies were conducted to determine the effect of transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn, Zea mays L. (YieldGard Rootworm), expressing the Cry3Bb1 protein on aboveground nontarget insect predators (minute pirate bug, ladybird beetles, and carabids). Visual counts of adult and immature Orius insidiosus (Say), Coleomegilla maculata (DeGeer), Hippodamia convergens Gurin-Meneville, and Scymnus spp. occurring in Bt corn and its non-Bt isoline were made at Manhattan, KS, in 2002 and at Manhattan and Scandia, KS, in 2003. No significant differences were found between the Bt corn and non-Bt isoline plots in the abundance (number per plant) of O. insidiosus, C. maculata, H. convergens, and Scymnus spp. Field predation on Ostrinia nubilalis (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) egg masses was also observed during the silking stage of corn at Manhattan and Scandia in 2003. No significant differences were observed among treatments in predation rate for predators with chewing versus sucking mouthparts. Two laboratory studies determined the effect of Cry3Bb1 protein expressed in Bt corn pollen on C. maculata and carabids. The larvae of C. maculata were reared on Bt pollen, non-Bt pollen, or greenbugs, Schizaphis graminum (Rondani). The duration of larval and pupal stages, developmental time from egg hatch to adult emergence, percentage of survival, and elytra length were compared among treatments. There were no significant differences in developmental time of larvae fed pollen or greenbugs during their first two instars. However, significantly prolonged development of the third (1 d) and fourth instars (2 d) was observed for larvae fed greenbugs only. Total time for larval development was significantly longer for larvae that fed on greenbugs versus larvae fed on pollen. No significant differences were observed among treatments in the percentage of larvae that pupated or pupal stage duration. Larvae that fed on greenbugs had higher pupal and adult weights compared with pollen-fed larvae. However, pupal and adult weights did not vary between the Bt and non-Bt pollen treatments. No significant differences occurred in longevity and elytra length of beetles among all treatments. Two carabid species, Harpalus caliginosus F. and Harpalus pensylvanicus DeGeer, were reared on moistened dog food sprinkled with Bt or non-Bt corn pollen. No significant differences in mortality of H. caliginosus and H. pensylvanicus were detected among any of the treatments. There was no significant effect of Bt pollen on fecundity and egg viability of H. caliginosus. Our studies showed that YieldGard Rootworm had no effect on the selected coleopteran predators; therefore, this Bt corn hybrid could be used in an integrated pest management system.
PALEOBIOGEOGRAPHY OF SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE DECAPOD CRUSTACEA

Paleobiogeographic patterns of decapod crustaceans from the Southern Hemisphere, based upon 441 species-level records arrayed in 154 genera, document global patterns of distribution that can be compared to those previously published on decapods from the North Pacific and Central American regions. All known records of decapods from the Southern Hemisphere spanning the Early Triassic to Pleistocene have been compiled, nearly all have been personally verified, and patterns of origin and distribution have been interpreted. Interchange between hemispheres, including amphitropical and bipolar distributions, are recognized from Jurassic to post– Miocene time. The high southern latitudes was a site of origin of several generic-level taxa during the Jurassic through Eocene and many of these taxa have been identified in subsequent times in lower latitude regions in shallow- and deepwater environments in both hemispheres. The isolation of Antarctica due to ocean currents significantly diminished the role of the high southern latitudes as an area of origin for decapods. The Tethys was an important dispersal pathway for decapods during the Cretaceous through early Miocene. Endemism was high during the Eocene, similar to the North Pacific and Central America. The magnitude of the Cretaceous/Paleogene extinction event on the Southern Hemisphere decapod fauna was not profound; most Cretaceous extinctions seem to have occurred well before the end of the Cretaceous, and 85% of the Cretaceous families are known from the Paleogene in the Southern Hemisphere taxa.
Dumpster Diving and the Ethical Blindspot of Trade Secret Law

t B.S. U.S. Naval Academy 1984, J.D. Candidate, 1998, Yale Law School. The author wishes to thank Professor Carol Rose, Judge John F. Fader n, and Doug Lichtman for the advice, as well as Lt. Hope Katcharian for her patient support and inspiration. 1. Kewanee Oil v. Bicron, 416 U.S. 470, 481-82 (1974) (quoting National Tube Co. v. Eastern Tube Co., 3 Ohio C.C. (n.s.) 459, 462 (1902). 2. 1 Melvin F. Jager, Trade Secrets Law § 1 .05, at 1-15 (1997). The Restatement (Third) of Unfair Competition recognizes Mr. Jager as a trade secret law authority. Restatement (Third) of Unfair Competition § 39 reporter's notes at 438 ("The principal treatises on the law of trade secrets are M. Jager, Trade Secrets Law and R. Milgrim, Milgrim on Trade Secrets."). 3. This complexity and flux is underscored by the fact that a simple definition of trade secret remains elusive. Cf. American Wheel & Eng'g Co. v. Dana Molded Prods, Inc., 476 N.E.2d 1291, 1294 (111. App. Ct. 1985) (stating that trade secret definition is elusive "because it includes a wide spectrum of categories subject to variations depending upon the facts of a particular case"). The Restatement (Third) of Unfair Competition recently set form the following comprehensive definition: u A trade secret is any information that can be used in the operation of a business or other enterprise and that is sufficiently valuable and secret to afford an actual or potential economic advantage over others." Restatement (Third) of Unfair Competition § 3.03(2) (1995). Before the Restatement* s definition, the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws commissioned its own definition: Trade Secret' means information, including a formula, pattern, compilation, program, device, method, technique, or process, that: (i) derives independent economic value, actual or potential, from not being generally known to, and not being readily ascertainable by proper means by, other persons who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use, and (ii) is the subject of efforts that are reasonable under the circumstances to maintain its secrecy. UNIF. TRADE SECRETS ACT ("UTSA"), 14 U.L.A. 369 (1997). The original version of the UTSA was approved in 1979, and an amended version was approved in 1985. See 14 U.L.A. 433 (1985). Despite the widespread adoption of the UTSA as a model for state trade secret statutes, see Christopher Rebel Pace, The Case for a Federal Trade Secrets Act, 8 Harv. J.L. & TECH. 427, 429 (1995), and the increasing citation of the Restatement (Third) of Unfair Competition, see Qualitex Co. v. Jacobson Prods. Co., 1 15 S. Ct. 1300 (1995); Two Pesos, Inc. v. Taco Cabana, Inc., 505 U.S. 763 (1992), most courts still rely upon the widely-recognized trade secret definition found in the 1939 Restatement of Torts. See 1 Jager, supra note 2, § 3.01, at 3-41; Milgrim on Trade Secrets § 1.01, at 1-3 (1997);
Attenuation of shear waves along the San Andreas fault zone in central California

abstract Ground motions at distances of 20 to 30 km from two moderate earthquakes, which occurred along the San Andreas fault zone in central California on February 24, 1972 ( M = 5.0) and on September 4, 1972 ( M = 4.6), were well recorded at two stations on quite different crustal structures astride the fault. The similarity of the focal mechanisms and the observed spectra at each station, for both earthquakes, makes it possible to apply the spectral ratio method for evaluating Q for direct shear waves propagating along and adjacent to the fault zone. The resultant linear relations between the average values of Q of SH waves for the wave paths from both earthquakes to each station, together with a few reasonable assumptions, suggest the following properties of the variation of Q in the upper crust: In the fracture zone of Tertiary and Cretaceous sedimentary rocks along the fault to the northeast of the Gabilan range, the average Q in the upper 6 km is as low as 20. Although less certain, under the northeastern part of the Gabilan range composed of Mesozoic granites southwest of the fault, the average Q in the upper 6 km is about 100 or more and the intrinsic Q begins to decrease at a depth of several kilometers. This depth corresponds to the bottom of the well-defined zone of aftershock occurrence following moderate earthquakes.
Effect of Hydrogen on Dislocation Emission from a Crack Tip in Nickel

A method for determining the intrinsic resistance to dislocation emission and glide in atomic models is presented and applied to EAM models of nickel containing a single-ended crack tip. The method is an adaptation of the Peierls approach in which the work done on the glide plane is computed as a function of dislocation position and its derivative is the intrinsic resistance to dislocation motion. The results indicate that there are two parts to the resistance to dislocation glide from the crack tip: a distinct barrier to injection of the dislocation from the crack tip and a periodic resistance associated with the lattice. When a hydrogen interstitial is placed on the slip plane near the crack tip the barrier height is reduced but its width is increased.
Laboratory Study of Competition Between Blepharipa pratensis and Parasetigena silvestris (Diptera: Tachinidae) in Lymantria dispar (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae)

Competition between two tachinid parasites, Parasetigena silvestris (Robineau-Desvoidy) and Blepharipa pratensis (Meigen), initiated in instar 4 of Lymantria dispar L., resulted in a significant, 65% reduction in B. pratensis survival as measured by maggot emergence. When multiparasitism is initiated in instar 5 or 6, competitive advantage is held by the species that infests the host first. In instars 5 and 6, P. silvestris survival is reduced by about 67% when B. pratensis infests first. In instar 5, B. pratensis survival is reduced by about 50%, and in instar 6 by about 73% when P. silvestris infests first. In addition, depending upon host instar and sequence of parasite attack, significant numbers (10–50%) of host larvae died without parasite emergence.
Evaluation of the Flote-Tech Machine-Assisted Flotation System

Recently, the Flote-Tech machine-assisted flotation system was introduced as a new technique for processing soil samples in arid environments and areas with limited or no access to water resources. This system uses water recirculation in a closed loop between a water reservoir and a flotation tank, aided by diffused air, to extract archaeological botanical remains from soil samples. The paper presents two experiments conducted to assess macroremain recovery rate, flotation rate, and the potential for cross-contamination between soil samples. In addition, Flote-Tech recovery and flotation rates are compared with rates achieved using IDOT manual and SMAP machine-assisted systems. The first set of experiments using the original 1-mm screen in the flotation box received high ratings for large, medium, and small seeds, but rated poorly for very small seeds. After installing a .5-mm screen, a higher percentage of small and very small seeds was recovered. Flotation rates for the customized Flote-Tech system ranked high, matching flotation rates for SMAP systems and out-performing manual IDOT systems by a factor of four to eight. In addition, a distinct advantage of the Flote-Tech system over other machine-assisted and manual systems is the elimination of cross-contamination between samples.
Isotopic fractionation associated with [NiFe]- and [FeFe]-hydrogenases.

Rationale Hydrogenases catalyze the reversible formation of H2 from electrons and protons with high efficiency. Understanding the relationships between H2 production, H2 uptake, and H2-H2O exchange can provide insight into the metabolism of microbial communities in which H2 is an essential component in energy cycling. Methods We used stable H isotopes (1H and 2H) to probe the isotope effects associated with three [FeFe]-hydrogenases and three [NiFe]-hydrogenases. Results All six hydrogenases displayed fractionation factors for H2 formation that were significantly less than 1, producing H2 that was severely depleted in 2H relative to the substrate, water. Consistent with differences in their active site structure, the fractionation factors for each class appear to cluster, with the three [NiFe]-hydrogenases (α = 0.27–0.40) generally having smaller values than the three [FeFe]-hydrogenases (α = 0.41–0.55). We also obtained isotopic fractionation factors associated with H2 uptake and H2-H2O exchange under conditions similar to those utilized for H2 production, providing a more complete picture of the reactions catalyzed by hydrogenases. Conclusions The fractionation factors determined in our studies can be used as signatures for different hydrogenases to probe their activity under different growth conditions and to ascertain which hydrogenases are most responsible for H2 production and/or uptake in complex microbial communities. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.