cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Consistency of a nonparametric estimation of a density functional

LetX be a random variable with distribution functionF and density functionf. Let ϕ and ψ be known measurable functions defined on the real lineR and the closed interval [0, 1], respectively. This paper proposes a smooth nonparametric estimate of the density functional\(\theta = \int\limits_R \phi (x) \psi \left[ {F (x)} \right]f^2 (x) dx\) based on a random sampleX1, ...,Xn fromF using a kernel functionk. The proposed estimate is given by\(\hat \theta = (n^2 a_n )^{ - 1} \mathop \sum \limits_{i = 1}^n \mathop \sum \limits_{j = 1}^n \phi (X_i ) \psi \left[ {\hat F (X_i )} \right]k\left[ {(X_i - X_j )/a_n } \right]\), where\(\hat F(x) = n^{ - 1} \mathop \sum \limits_{i = 1}^n K\left[ {(x - X_i )/a_n } \right]\) with\(K (w) = \int\limits_{ - \infty }^w {k (u) } du\). The estimate\(\hat \theta \) is shown to be consistent both in the weak and strong sense and is used to estimate the asymptotic relative efficiency of various nonparametric tests, with particular reference to those using the Chernoff-Savage statistic.
Geometrical branching model: A Monte Carlo simulation of multiparticle production.

The geometrical branching model for soft production in hadronic collisions is developed into a Monte Carlo code, called ECCO, in which the eikonal formalism is combined with cluster cascades. The model not only can account for the global features of multiparticle production, but is also designed to describe the properties of rapidity fluctuations in small rapidity bins. With the use of five parameters ECCO can simultaneously simulate all the data on {l angle}{ital n}{r angle}, {ital P}{sub {ital n}}, {ital C}{sub {ital q}}, {ital dn}/{ital dy}, {ital C}({ital y}{sub 1},{ital y}{sub 2}), {ital dN}/{ital dp}{sub {ital T}}{sup 2}, and {ital F}{sub {ital q}}, for {radical}{ital s} ranging from 10 to 65 GeV, nearly all within error bars.
Heat capacities of solid, globular proteins

In an ongoing effort to understand the thermodynamic properties of proteins, solid-state heat capacities of poly(amino acid)s of all 20 naturally occurring amino acids and 4 copoly(amino acid)s were previously determined using our Advance THermal Analysis System (ATHAS). Recently, poly(L-methionine) and poly(L-phenylalanine) were further studied with new low-temperature measurements from 10 to 340 K. In addition, an analysis was performed on literature data of a first protein, zinc bovine insulin dimer C 508 H 752 O 150 N 130 S 12 Zn. Good agreement was found between experiment and calculation. In the present work, we have investigated four additional anhydrous globular proteins, α-chymotrypsinogen, β-lactoglobulin, ovalbumin, and ribonuclease A. The heat capacity of each protein was measured from 130 to 420 K with differential scanning calorimetry, and the data were analyzed with both the ATHAS empirical addition scheme and a fitting to computations using an approximate vibrational spectrum. For the solid state, agreement between measurement and computation scheme could be accomplished to an average and root mean square percentage error of 0.5 ± 3.2% for α-chymotrypsinogen, -0.8 ± 2.5% for β-lactoglobulin, -0.4 ± 1.8% for ovalbumin, and -0.7 ± 2.2% for ribonuclease A. With these calculations, it was possible to link the macroscopic heat capacities to their microscopic causes, the group and skeletal vibrational motion. For each protein one set of parameters of the Tarasov function, Θ 1 and Θ 3 , represent the skeletal vibrational contributions to the heat capacity. They are obtained from a new optimization procedure [α-chy-motrypsinogen: 631 K and 79 K (number of skeletal vibrators N s = 3005) ; β-lactoglobulin: 582 K and (79 K) (N s = 2188) ; ovalbumin : 651 K and (79 K) (N s = 5008) and ribonuclease A : 717 K and (79 K) (N s = 1574), respectively]. Enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy can be derived for the solid state.
Heavy metal storage in near channel sediments of the Lahn River, Germany

Abstract Heavy metal pollution in urban, industrial, and mined watersheds of Europe is well documented, but less is known about metal contamination in agrarian watersheds or those with no history of mining. Along a 75-km reach of the Lahn River, central Germany, near-channel flood-plain sediments (
German Society and German Science

In his editorial of 10 May ([p. 791][1]), Hubert Markl criticizes “a vocal part of German society” that has been hostile to nuclear technology and biotechnology, “driving billions of marks worth of high-tech investment abroad.” I think these people legitimately struggle to direct scientific
Phylogeny and correlations of aldehyde oxidase, xanthine oxidase, xanthine dehydrogenase and peroxidase in animal tissues

Abstract 1. 1. Seventy-nine animal species were surveyed spectrophotometrically for peroxidase, aldehyde oxidase, xanthine oxidase and, in fewer species, xanthine dehydrogenase activites. 2. 2. None of the four oxidases was measurable in phytogenetically primitive species. 3. 3. Twelve species displayed peroxidase alone, eleven species displayed xanthine or aldehyde oxidase alone and thirty-three species displayed peroxidase and one, two or three of the other oxidases. 4. 4. Aldehyde oxidase appeared to be phylogenetically primitive to xanthine dehydrogenase, which in turn was primitive to xanthine oxidase. 5. 5. Aldehyde oxidase was widely distributed among molluscs, crustaceans, insects and alll the vertebrate classes except birds. 6. 6. Peroxidase was present in all vertebrates and in those invertebrates that burrow in soil and detritus. 7. 7. Xanthine dehydrogenase incidence was high in insects and fish. 8. 8. Xanthine oxidase was found with certainty only in birds, mammals and one arachnid. 9. 9. Most uricotelic animals displayed either xanthine oxidase or xanthine dehydrogenase. 10. 10. Two insects appeared to shift from xanthine dehydrogenase in their larval stage to aldehyde oxidase in their adult stage.
Interaction of abscisic acid and kinetin on the growth ofHaworthia callus in vitro

Abscisic acid (ABA) in combination with kinetin substantially enhanced the growth of callus obtained from inflorescence segments ofHaworthia cultured in vitro. This enhancement was noticed when relatively low concentration of these growth regulators were included in the medium. Neither compound was as effective when used alone. Synergistic effect of ABA and kinetin on the in vitro growth of a monocotyledonous tissue is reported.
Summary of a Large- and Small-Scale Unreinforced Masonry Infill Test Program

A five-year, large- and small-scale, static and dynamic experimental research program, in which more than 700 tests were conducted, has demonstrated that unreinforced masonry infills are more ductile and resist lateral loads more effectively than anticipated by conventional code procedures. The tests were conducted both in the laboratory and on existing structures at the Department of Energy’s Y-12 National Security Complex. The experimental data indicate that the combination of a steel frame and infill material efficiently resists lateral loads—the infilling provides significant lateral stiffness while the surrounding frame adds ductility and confinement to the overall system. The results from approximately 25 moderate- and full-scale tests on infills showed that with simulated seismic loads the frames confined the masonry, and the load-carrying capacity of the infill was considerably above the load that caused initial cracking. This finding was a significant departure from classical code approaches that...
Solutions to the dynamical equation of polarization-mode dispersion and polarization-dependent losses

We study the evolution of optical signals in single-mode optical fibers in the presence of polarization-mode dispersion and polarization-dependent losses. Two geometric vectors on the Poincare sphere are defined to characterize the effects of polarization-mode dispersion and polarization-dependent losses on the optical field in the fiber. By solving the dynamical equation for these two vectors, several general statistical results are obtained. The practically important weak polarization-dependent-loss situation is discussed in detail.
Some consequences of a liquid water saturated regolith in early Martian history

Flooding of low-lying areas of the Martian regolith may have occurred early in the planet's history when a comparatively dense primitive atmosphere existed. If this model is valid, the following are some pedogenic and mineralogical consequences to be expected. Fluctuation of the water table in response to any seasonal or longer term causes would have resulted in precipitation of ferric oxyhydroxides with the development of a vesicular duricrust (or hardpan). Disruption of such a crust by scarp undercutting or frost heaving accompanied by wind deflation of fines could account for the boulders visible on Utopia Planitia in the vicinity of the second Viking lander site. Laboratory and field evidence on earth suggests that under weakly oxidizing conditions lepidocrocite (rather than goethite) would have preferentially formed in the Martian regolith from the weathering of ferrous silicates, accompanied by montmorillonite, nontronite, and cronstedtite. Maghemite may have formed as a low-temperature dehydrate of lepidocrocite or directly from ferrous precursors.
A CO2-PENS model of methods and costs for treatment of water extracted during geologic carbon sequestration

Abstract Extraction of water during subsurface carbon sequestration may be useful for the control of CO2 placement, reducing pressure risks, and mitigating environmental risks. Desalination of this water may be possible if costs are kept low, in order to minimize the quantity that must be reinjected or otherwise disposed. Added value may be recovered in the form of treated water that can be reused by carbon capture, sequestration, and other industrial processes. Total dissolved solids will range from 10,000 mg/L up to over 100,000 mg/L, and temperatures may range up to 120°C, once the water is brought to the surface. We have developed a system-level, mesoscale analysis module for the CO2-Predicting engineered natural system model to analyze the feasibility of treatment, the costs of treatment, the value of energy recovery, and the costs of concentrate disposal. Costs are derived from a database of reported literature values. The model allows the user to select the most economic options for treatment, to c...
Quantitative characterization of functionally modified micron–submicron fibers for tissue regeneration: a review

Tissue regeneration relies on building carefully crafted scaffold material in the micron–submicron scale and imparting specific functionality in order to best mimic the in vivo environment in terms of chemical composition, morphology, and surface functional groups. Fibrous meshes with structural features at the micron to submicron level for ideal three-dimensional tissue regeneration scaffolds can be an inexpensive scale-up option. Bio-inert polymers lack the functional motifs for specific bioactivity; however, functionalization of the scaffolds can provide biological functions to actively induce tissue regeneration and promote cell adhesion by targeting specific cell–matrix interactions. It is therefore important to characterize the scaffolds and understand the relationship between the efficacy of the functionalization, the surface properties of the scaffolds, and their biological performance. This paper is a comprehensive review of the current understanding in functionalization and characterization of f...
Designing an Emergency Response System for Electronic Laboratory Diagnostics Consultation

This study examines the requirements that are the most demanding with respect to software and hardware and the associated design strategies for an emergency response system (ERS) for electronic laboratory diagnostics consultation. The system being studied is called the Secure Telecommunications Application Terminal Package or STATPack. STATPack supports distributed laboratories to communicate information and make decisions regarding biosecurity situations. The intent of the system is to help hospital laboratories enhance their preparedness for a bioterrorism event or other public health emergency. Understanding the critical requirements can assist developers to better meet the expectations of the users. This study also serves as input on how to design a system that accommodates HIPAA guidelines. In addition, this study illustrates ways to assess requirements that are unique to public health ERS systems.
Performance enhancement of adaptive orthogonal modulation in wireless CDMA systems

Recent research in wireless code-division multiple-access systems has shown that adaptive rate/power control can considerably increase network throughput relative to systems that use only power or rate control. In this paper, we consider joint power/rate optimization in the context of orthogonal modulation (OM) and investigate the additional performance gains achieved through adaptation of the OM order. We show that such adaptation can significantly increase network throughput, while simultaneously reducing the per-bit energy consumption relative to fixed-order modulation systems. The optimization is carried out under two different objective functions: minimizing the maximum service time and maximizing the sum of user rates. For the first objective function, we prove that the optimization problem can be formulated as a generalized geometric program (GGP). We then show how this GGP can be transformed into a nonlinear convex program, which can be solved optimally and efficiently. For the second objective function, we obtain a lower bound on the performance gain of adaptive OM (AOM) over fixed-modulation systems. Numerical results indicate that relative to an optimal joint rate/power control fixed-order modulation scheme, the proposed AOM scheme achieves significant throughput and energy gains.
234Th scavenging and its relationship to acid polysaccharide abundance in the Gulf of Mexico

Size-fractionated particulate 234 Th and acid polysaccharides (APS) were collected from stations along a transect in the Gulf of Mexico, in order to examine the role of APS content in controlling the extent and rates of 234 Th scavenging in the ocean and to explore, for the first time, the relationship between Th scavenging and biochemical composition of particulate matter. Oceanographically consistent vertical profiles of dissolved and particulate 234 Th concentrations were observed, with a considerable 234 Th deficit relative to 238 U in the upper water column and in benthic nepheloid layers, but reaching secular equilibria between 234 Th and 238 U in intermediate waters. Within the total particulate 234 Th pool (>0.5 Am), the 10–53 Am fraction had the largest share of 234 Th (37–57%), followed by the >53 Am (13–36%), the 1–10 Am (10–21%), and the 0.5–1 Am (8–17%) fractions, resulting in a decrease of POC/ 234 Th ratios with increasing particle size. Residence times of 234 Th in size-fractionated particles, calculated with a serial multi-box model, were, as expected, consistently shorter than those for total particulate 234 Th, with the shortest residence times ( 53 Am. These results suggest that submicron and micronsized particles are the most important intermediary in the Th scavenging and that 234 Th on smaller particles ( 53 Am were also significantly and inversely correlated with uronic acid (URA, a fraction of total APS) concentrations, indicating that the APS content controls not only rates and amounts of 234 Th sorption, but also rates of coagulation of particles. Thus, the biochemical composition of marine particles needs to be considered in improved Th(IV) scavenging models. D 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Supracondylar femoral fracture fixation: Locked plating versus retrograde nailing

Comminuted supracondylar femur fractures in the elderly are commonly treated with either retrograde femoral nail or locking plate internal fixation devices. Human cadaveric femur specimens with a simulated AO/OTA type 33-A3 fracture, fixed with either the plate or nail, are subjected to a simulated post-operative weight bearing recovery period and construct stiffness and subsidence were measured. Nail constructs experienced greater subsidence and reduced axial stiffness, with the differences more pronounced in specimens with low bone mineral density. The clinical advantages of utilizing RAFN may be compromised in low bone mineral density patients by the higher risk of failure.
Production of a Proteolytically Active Protein, Chlamydial Protease/Proteasome-Like Activity Factor, by Five Different Chlamydia Species

We have previously identified a chlamydial protein, chlamydial protease/proteasome-like activity factor (CPAF), for degrading host transcription factors in cells infected with the human chlamydial species Chlamydia trachomatis or Chlamydia pneumoniae. We now report that functional CPAF was also produced during infection with the species Chlamydia muridarum, Chlamydia psittaci, and Chlamydia caviae, which primarily infect nonhuman hosts.
Ratio of Serum Aspartate to Alanine Aminotransferase in Chronic Hepatitis Relationship to Cirrhosis

The ratio of the serum aspartate to alanine amino-transferase levels (AST/ALT) is often used as a clue to the etiology of the underlying liver disease. This ratio is usually greater than 2.0 in alcoholic liver disease and less than 1.0 in patients with chronic hepatitis and chronic cholestatic syndromes. We analyzed the AST/ALT ratio in 177 patients with various forms of nonalcoholic chronic liver disease who underwent medical evaluation and percutaneous liver biopsy. In the majority of cases of chronic viral hepatitis, the AST/ALT ratio was less than 1.0. However, there was a statistically significant correlation between the AST/ALT ratio and the presence of cirrhosis. Among 100 patients with chronic type B hepatitis, the mean AST/ALT ratio was 0.59 in those without cirrhosis and 1.02 in those with cirrhosis. Furthermore, the AST/ALT ratio often rose to greater than 1.0 when cirrhosis first became manifest. Thus, the finding of an AST/ALT ratio of greater than 1.0 in a patient with nonalcoholic liver disease should suggest the presence of cirrhosis. In addition, the use of the AST/ALT ratio as a means of separating alcoholic and nonalcoholic liver disease must be tempered with the knowledge that this ratio may be less helpful in the presence of cirrhosis.
Total Cost of Ownership Models: An Exploratory Study

SUMMARY This research examines organizational purchasing models focusing on the use of total cost of ownership (TCO) to value purchase opportunities. The research presents evidence that leading-edge companies actually use such models. This exploratory study provides, for the first time, data on the nature, and use, of the cost drivers on which organizations base their TCO computations. The study suggests a generic model of total cost of ownership is not appropriate. However, the findings of this research suggest a TCO model based on a core set of cost drivers, along with an auxiliary set of cost drivers, is appropriate. The core cost drivers would be present in all, or most, TCO computations. Purchasing managers could use different, specific cost drivers from the auxiliary set to tailor the TCO computation for a particular purchase situation. The authors also suggest that a value-based, multi-firm, or supply chain, TCO computation model is needed. Such a TCO model should be similar to a single-firm TCO model.
Characteristics of underwater acoustic communication channels in shallow water

Underwater acoustic channels are band-limited and reverberant, posing many obstacles to reliable, phase-coherent acoustic communications. While many high frequency communication experiments have been conducted in shallow water, few have carried out systematic studies on the channel properties at a time scale relevant for communications. To aid the communication system design, this paper analyzes at-sea data collected in shallow water under various conditions to illustrate how the ocean environments (sea surface waves, and random ocean medium) can affect the signal properties. Channel properties studied include amplitude and phase variations, and temporal coherence of individual paths as well as the temporal and spatial coherence of multipaths at different time scales. Reasons for the coherence loss are hypothesized.
Triple-Helix Formation Induces Recombination in Mammalian Cells via a Nucleotide Excision Repair-Dependent Pathway

The ability to stimulate recombination in a site-specific manner in mammalian cells may provide a useful tool for gene knockout and a valuable strategy for gene therapy. We previously demonstrated that psoralen adducts targeted by triple-helix-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) could induce recombination between tandem repeats of a supF reporter gene in a simian virus 40 vector in monkey COS cells. Based on work showing that triple helices, even in the absence of associated psoralen adducts, are able to provoke DNA repair and cause mutations, we asked whether intermolecular triplexes could stimulate recombination. Here, we report that triple-helix formation itself is capable of promoting recombination and that this effect is dependent on a functional nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway. Transfection of COS cells carrying the dual supF vector with a purine-rich TFO, AG30, designed to bind as a third strand to a region between the two mutant supF genes yielded recombinants at a frequency of 0.37%, fivefold above background, whereas a scrambled sequence control oligomer was ineffective. In human cells deficient in the NER factor XPA, the ability of AG30 to induce recombination was eliminated, but it was restored in a corrected subline expressing the XPA cDNA. In comparison, the ability of triplex-directed psoralen cross-links to induce recombination was only partially reduced in XPA-deficient cells, suggesting that NER is not the only pathway that can metabolize targeted psoralen photoadducts into recombinagenic intermediates. Interestingly, the triplex-induced recombination was unaffected in cells deficient in DNA mismatch repair, challenging our previous model of a heteroduplex intermediate and supporting a model based on end joining. This work demonstrates that oligonucleotide-mediated triplex formation can be recombinagenic, providing the basis for a potential strategy to direct genome modification by using high-affinity DNA binding ligands.
Vegetation Index Differencing for Broad-Scale Assessment of Productivity Under Prolonged Drought and Sequential High Rainfall Conditions

Spatially-explicit depictions of plant productivity over large areas are critical to monitoring landscapes in highly heterogeneous arid ecosystems. Applying radiometric change detection techniques we sought to determine whether: (1) differences between pre- and post-growing season spectral vegetation index values effectively identify areas of significant change in vegetation; and (2) areas of significant change coincide with altered ecological states. We differenced NDVI values, standardized difference values to Z-scores to identify areas of significant increase and decrease in NDVI, and examined the ecological states associated with these areas. The vegetation index differencing method and translation of growing season NDVI to Z-scores permit examination of change over large areas and can be applied by non-experts. This method identified areas with potential for vegetation/ecological state transition and serves to guide field reconnaissance efforts that may ultimately inform land management decisions for millions of acres of federal lands.
Comparison of fracture resistance of pressable metal ceramic custom implant abutments with CAD/CAM commercially fabricated zirconia implant abutments.

Statement of problem The adequacy of the strength of dental zirconia abutments under heavy occlusal load conditions is questionable, with degradation of the mechanical properties of zirconia having been reported. Therefore, some alternatives must be considered. Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of fabricating pressable metal ceramic custom implant (Pr) abutments, and to evaluate the fracture resistance of these abutments. Material and methods Two groups of implant abutment specimens were fabricated (n=10). The experimental group consisted of Pr abutments, and the control group consisted of CAD/CAM-designed zirconia-based ceramic (Zr) abutments. For the experimental group, custom metal abutments were cast using a compatible metal alloy (Lodestar); this was followed by injection molding with lithium disilicate pressable ceramic (IPS e.max Press) around the metal column of the custom implant abutment. For the control group, 10 specimens were fabricated from CAD/CAM-designed zirconia abutments (Procera Zirconia). Following scanning, all-ceramic crowns with the average dimensions of a human central incisor were fabricated for the experimental and control abutments (n=20) using lithium disilicate pressable ceramic (IPS e.max Press). Each crown was cemented to the implant abutments with a resin luting agent (Variolink II). The crown-abutment test specimens were fixed to titanium implant analogs and placed in a test stand at 30 degrees from the vertical axis of the specimens in a computer-controlled universal testing device. The independent t test was used to detect if the mean values of the fracture load differed significantly (α=.05) between the 2 groups. Results The mean (SD) fracture load was significantly higher in the Pr group (901.67 (102.05) N) than in the Zr group (480.01 (174.46) N, P Conclusions This study found that Pr abutments are stronger than Zr abutments. (J Prosthet Dent 2009;101:226-230)
The Lizard's Tail: An Ocular Allegory

This metaphorical article examines the inherent complexities of compensatory balancing movements that are critical in our daily functioning, and demonstrates how our ocular oblique muscles have been reassigned to execute this function. The principle of conservation of angular momentum is operationalized unconsciously at many levels of our daily functioning. When initiating a leftward turn on a bicycle, for example, I notice that my handle bars move instantaneously to the right just before the turn. Obviously, I am actively turning the handle bars, but this movement is completely unconscious. This paradoxical movement also involves conservation of angular momentum. In order to turn left, I have to first get my body leaning to the left. But how can I do this? By quickly rotating the handlebars to the right, my body is shifted to the left to conserve angular momentum. Just like the tightrope walker.
UNIVERSAL BANKS ARE NOT THE ANSWER TO AMERICA'S CORPORATE GOVERNANCE “PROBLEM”: A LOOK AT GERMANY, JAPAN, AND THE U.S.

This article objects to a recent tendency of legal and economic scholars to “romanticize” the corporate governance role of German universal banks and Japanese main banks. There are potential conflicts between banks' interests as lenders and as shareholders that are likely to make banks less-than-ideal monitors for outside shareholders. Citing evidence that Japanese corporate borrowers pay above-market interest rates for their bank financing, Macey and Miller interpret the high interest rates as “rents” earned by Japanese banks on their loan portfolios in exchange for (1) insulating incumbent management of borrower firms from hostile takeover and (2) accepting suboptimal returns on their equity holdings. The main problems with the German and Japanese systems stem from their failure to produce well-developed capital markets. Concentrated and stable shareholdings reduce the order flow in the market, thereby depriving the market of liquidity. And the lack of capital market liquidity– combined with the intense loyalty of the banks towards incumbent management–removes the ability of outside shareholders to make a credible threat of takeover if managerial performance is substandard. The problem with American corporate governance–if indeed there is one–is not that hostile takeovers are bad, but that there are not enough of them due to regulatory restrictions and misguided legal policies. While U.S. law should be amended to give banks and other debtholders more power over borrowers in the case of financial distress, encouraging U.S. banks to become large stockholders is not likely to improve corporate efficiency. Strengthening the “voice” of American equity holders by eliminating restrictions on the market for corporate control would be the most effective step in improving firm performance.
Hierarchical partitioning of high-level VHDL structures

A systematic hierarchical partitioning algorithm for high-level VHDL descriptions is proposed. The partitioning algorithm is based on quadrisection. The major contributions of this paper include exploiting the VHDL hierarchy for the local expansion of VHDL entities and the extension of regular quadrisection to a three-stage hierarchical operation. At each hierarchical level, the complexity of our algorithm is linear in the number of nets. The results show that our hierarchical algorithm provides solutions which are better than the min-cut algorithm and compatible with flat quadrisection. >
Properties of Minerals

Mineral chemistry as a science was established in the early years of the nineteenth century by Joseph-Louis Proust’s proposal of the Law of Constant Composition in 1799, John Dalton’s Atomic Theory in 1805, and the development of accurate methods of chemical analysis. By definition, a mineral has a characteristic composition expressed by its formula, e.g., halite (NaCl) or quartz (SiO2).
Dual-Frequency Operation in a Short-Cavity Ytterbium-Doped Fiber Laser

A dual-frequency 2-cm silica fiber laser with a wavelength spacing of 0.3 nm has been demonstrated using a polarization-maintaining (PM) fiber-Bragg-grating (FBG) reflector. The birefringence of the PM FBG was used to generate the two single-mode (SM) lasing frequencies of orthogonal polarizations. The SM operation in each wavelength has been verified. The output power reaches 43 mW with the optical signal-to-noise ratio of greater than 60 dB. The fiber laser shows stable dual-frequency output under pump variations
Escape ring selectivity, bycatch, and discard survivability in the New England fishery for deep-water red crab, Chaceon quinquedens

Tallack, S. M. L. 2007. Escape ring selectivity, bycatch, and discard survivability in the New England fishery for deep-water red crab, Chaceon quinquedens. - ICES Journal of Marine Science, 64: 1579-1586.The trap fishery for red crab, Chaceon quinquedens, occurs at depths of 600-800 m along the continental slope of New England. The target product is a male crab with a carapace width of ∼105 mm or greater. Selectivity was tested at two discrete depths (600 and 800 m), for four different escape ring scenarios: control trap with no escape rings, and escape rings with internal diameters of 9, 10, and 11 cm. Proportions of non-marketable C. quinquedens were large (71-100%) at both depths for all traps, but were smallest in traps with escape rings. Discard mortality was estimated at ∼5% through caging experiments across three haul frequency conditions (every 24 h, every 4 d, and after 8 d), which represented the likely reality of multiple recaptures during a commercial trip. The impact of discarding techniques (low and high impact) was also assessed. If discard proportion estimates of >71% are realistic, and if an estimated ∼5% of these discards die, the recommendation must be made for fishery participants to improve gear selectivity, and thereby to minimize discard mortality rates. On the management side, stock assessments will be more accurate if estimates of discard mortality are incorporated.
Zn(2+) reverses functional deficits in a de novo dopamine transporter variant associated with autism spectrum disorder.

Our laboratory recently characterized a novel autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-associated de novo missense mutation in the human dopamine transporter (hDAT) gene SLC6A3 (hDAT T356M). This hDAT variant exhibits dysfunctional forward and reverse transport properties that may contribute to DA dysfunction in ASD. Here, we report that Zn2+ reverses, at least in part, the functional deficits of ASD-associated hDAT variant T356M. These data suggest that the molecular mechanism targeted by Zn2+ to restore partial function in hDAT T356M may be a novel therapeutic target to rescue functional deficits in hDAT variants associated with ASD.
Three-Dimensional Assembly Synthesis for Robust Dimensional Integrity Based on Screw Theory

This paper presents a 3D extension of our previous work on the synthesis of assemblies whose dimensional integrity is insensitive to the dimensional variations of individual parts. Assuming that assemblies can be built in the reverse sequence of decomposition, the method recursively decomposes a given product geometry into two subassemblies until parts become manufacturable. At each recursion, joints are assigned to the interfaces between two subassemblies to ensure the two criteria for robust dimensional integrity, in-process dimensional adjustability and proper part constraints. Screw Theory is utilized as a unified 3D representation of the two criteria. A case study on an automotive space frame is presented to demonstrate the method.
Implementing multi-gigahertz test systems using CMOS FPGAs and PECL components

Two research projects are described that develop low-cost techniques for testing multi-gigahertz devices. Each project uses commercially available components to keep costs low, and achieves performance characteristics comparable to (and in some ways exceeding) more expensive ATE. An FPGA-based logic core provides flexibility, adaptability, and communication with controlling computers while customized emitter-coupled logic achieves multi-gigahertz data rates with about /spl plusmn/25ps timing accuracy. This paper has been adapted from (Keezer, 2005).
African American and European American College Students' Expectations for Self and for Future Partners.

The purpose of this study was to examine self-expectations, expectations for future partners, and comparative expectations (self versus partner) held by college students. Participants were 33 African American males, 57 African American females, 53 European American males, and 74 European American females. African Americans had higher self-expectations regarding future income, probability of being a professional success, and educational achievement than European Americans. There were no differences in expectations for future partners' success. However, there were gender differences in comparative expectations. Females expected their future partners to be more intelligent, more able to solve problems, and more successful professionally and to make more money than themselves, and males expected their future partners to do more parenting than they expected to do. The pattern of responses for Black men and Black women was similar to that of White men and women.
Determinants of executive compensation in small business development centers

We develop and test a model of nonprofit executive compensation based on theories of organizational science, economics, and agency theory. Our sample consisted of 114 directors of small business development centers in the United States. Consistent with our model, we find significant effects for human capital, organizational size, and organizational affiliation. We find tentative support for a significant pay-for-performance relationship. We find that when education, tenure, size, performance, and affiliation are held constant, female executives are compensated significantly less than male executives.
Synergistic development of optics education and industry in a small university town

In thirty-five years, more than thirty optics-related companies have been established in the small Rocky Mountain town of Bozeman, Montana, USA. This situation offers a rare opportunity to examine the parallel growth of optics education and industry in a location that until recently was home to very few, if any, high-technology companies. The growth of optics education and research at Montana State University (MSU) in Bozeman was both a cause and a result of the parallel growth of surrounding optics-related companies. The earliest academic optics activities at MSU were in both applied optical measurements and basic optical sciences, especially laser crystal spectroscopy and laser physics, and our first optics companies were in similar fields. In fact, one of the first companies was started by an MSU graduate who grew the crystal for the world’s first ruby laser built by Dr. Theodore Maiman. After the start of this growth in the 1980s, the next several decades brought synergistic broadening of optics activities to a wide range of applications, from remote sensing to medical imaging. This paper outlines the events that initiated this development and the ongoing activities that continue to promote this synergistic growth of optics in both academia and industry.
Combating corruption in Cambodia

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a critical analysis and survey of Cambodia’s recent efforts to combat corruption. It explores the policy context, perceived extent of corruption, causes of corruption, anti-corruption measures, evaluates those anti-corruption measures, and provides policy recommendations. Design/methodology/approach – This paper reviews the literature on corruption and anti-corruption efforts in Cambodia. It relies on available data from the World Bank and Transparency International, and compares these data over time. Findings – The paper shows that corruption in Cambodia is pervasive and that anti-corruption efforts are limited because of a lack of political will. Existing anti-corruption measures designed with loopholes must be amended, but implementation remains the primary challenge. Originality/value – This paper contributes to the limited literature on combating corruption in Cambodia.
Quantifying Timing of Return to Traffic for Asphalt Cement Based Full Depth Reclamation Mixtures in the Laboratory

Full depth reclamation (FDR) is a pavement structure rehabilitation technique that uses in-place material to build structural capacity of a roadway. By mixing together 8–12 in. of pavement structure with a binding agent, a higher structural capacity can be achieved. However, there is often a period of time prior to the binding agent fully curing where traffic is released to the FDR before a surface course is applied. In this research, five laboratory testing devices attempted to quantify how asphalt cement based FDR builds resistance to raveling during this traffic. Four in-house designed and built testing devices were compared to the existing cold in-place recycling raveling test. Factors explored during evaluation included curing time (0–48 h), binding agent (asphalt emulsion and asphalt foam), and curing condition (ambient temperature and 40°C). In general, all five testing devices showed a decrease in potential raveling with longer curing times using an asphalt emulsion binding agent at ambient curing temperatures. Asphalt emulsion FDR showed higher resistance to raveling than asphalt foam FDR at ambient curing temperatures, but curing at 40°C did not give conclusive evidence on resistance to raveling versus ambient curing temperatures. Finally, this testing was applied in the laboratory to give a general indication of the performance of each testing device; therefore, the testing devices need to be taken into the field to verify these initial laboratory findings and to begin building correlations between the lab test results and actual raveling susceptibility in the field.
The relation among self-efficacy, learning approaches, and academic performance: an exploratory study

ABSTRACTSelf-efficacy influences students’ activities, effort and persistence, and it can help predict their motivation and academic performance. This study attempts to investigate the relationship between self-efficacy, preferred learning methods, and academic performance under different learning methods in a unique hospitality course setting. The results indicate that hospitality management students prefer a “learn by doing” approach instead of computer-based learning and lecturing. This study concludes that self-efficacy affects the academic performance in both lecturing and practical learning in hospitality education. However, students’ preference in terms of learning methods does not influence their academic performance. Emphasizing “learn by doing” in the hospitality higher education curriculum is recommended in addition to recruiting faculty members with extensive industry experience. Conversely, it is recommended that faculty find the means to increase students’ self-efficacy when adopting differe...
When Cows Talk: The Happy California Cow Campaign as Visual Apologia

This paper explores the visual apologia of the California dairy industry's Happy Cow campaign through generic rhetorical analysis. The study identifies several benefits, detriments, and challenges ...
Meta-Analysis and Computer-Mediated Communication

Because of the use of human participants and differing contextual variables, research in second language acquisition often produces conflicting results, leaving practitioners confused and unsure of the effectiveness of specific treatments. This article provides insight into a recent seminal meta-analysis on the effectiveness of computer-mediated communication, providing further statistical evidence of the importance of its results. The significance of the study is examined by looking at the p values included in the references, to demonstrate how results can easily be misconstrued by practitioners and researchers. Lin's conclusion regarding the research setting of the study reports is also evaluated. In doing so, other possible explanations of what may be influencing the results can be proposed.
Price Policy of the Challenge Cream & Butter Association: I:

Editor's Note: This is the first of a two-part article by Mr. Naden analyzing the price policy of a large distributive cooperative organization. The second will appear in July.
Documents on Property: Judicial Opinions on Demolition, Relocation, and Compensation (III): Guest Editor's Introduction

This third issue on demolition, relocation, and compensation includes translations of ten judicial opinions on demolition and compensation disputes. Some cases focus on interpretation of compensation agreements, which either demolition agents or holders of property rights attempt to void, circumvent, or renegotiate. In others, where no compensation agreement was reached, disputes tend to involve challenges to compensation plans ordered by administrative agencies with the plaintiffs usually dissatisfied holders of property rights. Procedural challenges are common in such cases, with appraiser qualifications, compliance with central, provincial, and local regulations and procedures, and the right to expropriate properties at issue under operative development plans coming under attack. In some cases, the appellate courts simply enforce the status quo and uphold compensation agreements or affirm administrative compensation decisions. In others, however, the courts either stretch statutory language or read it ...
The Effect of Acute Dmso Therapy in Brain Edema and Modification of This by Indomethacin

The control of brain edema continues to be a major concern in clinical practice and the prompt and effective response to therapy in the acute clinical setting, is of major importance. The therapeutic agents used most often when airway control does not produce the desired reduction of ICP are hypertonic diuretics such as mannitol and urea, and nephron blocking diuretics, such as furosemide.
An overview of planning under uncertainty

The recent advances in computer speed and algorithms for probabilistic inference have led to a resurgence of work on planning under uncertainty. The aim is to design AI planners for environments where there may be incomplete or faulty information, where actions may not always have the same results and where there may be tradeoffs between the different possible outcomes of a plan. Addressing uncertainty in AI planning algorithms will greatly increase the range of potential applications but there is plenty of work to be done before we see practical decision-theoretic planning systems. This article outlines some of the challenges that need to be overcome and surveys some of the recent work in the area.
Regular σ–π Organosilane Copolymers with Alternating Oligomeric Dimethylsilylene and Cis or Trans Stilbene Units

A series of perfectly alternating copolymers containing oligomeric dimethylsilylene and cis or trans stilbene units has been prepared by the condensation polymerization of silyl ditriflates with the corresponding stilbene dianion. As expected, the spectral characteristics and the polymer processability were very different for the isomeric polymers. Evidence of σ–π interaction was obtained from absorption measurements and the excited state of the Si4 catenates was characteristic of a polar charge transfer state. The polymers are all photoactive and irradiation in the long-wavelength absorption band leads to cis–trans isomerization followed by complete disappearance of the long-wavelength (λ>300 nm) absorption. The latter was not observed for the monomeric model compounds.
Abstract 288: Low-dose cabazitaxel inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells and enhances the anti-tumor properties of PEDF with greater efficacy than docetaxel

Despite recently approved novel agents, taxane-based chemotherapy remains the major therapeutic strategy for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Still mCRPC continues to be incurable. Furthermore, patients often experience severe side effects, prompting a re-evaluation of conventional regimen. Past studies have demonstrated promise for Low-Dose Metronomic (LDM) chemotherapy; schedule defined as the frequent administration of low doses of chemotherapeutic drugs with no prolonged drug-free breaks. Yet relative activities of LDM taxanes and combinations with known anti-neoplasic agents have to be investigated. Using CRPC cell lines (PC3, Du145 and the LNCaP-derivative CL1), we have shown that cabazitaxel-treated cells have a significantly lower EC50 compared to docetaxel, with Du145 cells presenting the greatest differences. In cell cycle analysis, both low-dose taxanes increased the sub-G1 cells population. However, the sub-G1 increase was significantly greater in cabazitaxel- than in docetaxel-treated Du145 cells, but not in PC3 and CL1. Accordingly, plasma membrane Annexin V elevation occurred in Du145 cells at lower doses of cabazitaxel than docetaxel validating a higher efficacy due to increased apoptosis. As other possible cell death mechanisms, autophagy and necrosis were investigated. Beclin1 expression levels remain unchanged in all three cell lines. In contrast, necrosis was stimulated in all the taxanes-treated cell lines in a dose dependent manner. In vivo, LDM cabazitaxel was significantly more efficient in delaying tumor growth than docetaxel. This effect was markedly increased when cabazitaxel was combined with the angio-inhibitor and anti-tumor Pigment Epithelium-Derived Factor (PEDF). Other results showed that PEDF and LDM chemotherapy combination induces more phagocytosis of CRPC cells when compared to single treatments. In conclusion, our data demonstrate a higher efficacy of cabazitaxel on CRPC both in vitro and in vivo, and suggest that LDM taxane chemotherapy/PEDF combination could be used as a novel therapeutic strategy for CRPC. Citation Format: Courtney L. Jarvis, Thomas Nelius, Dalia Martinez-Marin, Srirupa Cheerla, Stephanie Filleur. Low-dose cabazitaxel inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells and enhances the anti-tumor properties of PEDF with greater efficacy than docetaxel. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 288.