Fitting multilevel multivariate models with missing data in responses and covariates that may include interactions and non-linear terms

The paper extends existing models for multilevel multivariate data with mixed response types to handle quite general types and patterns of missing data values in a wide range of multilevel generalized linear models. It proposes an efficient Bayesian modelling approach that allows missing values in covariates, including models where there are interactions or other functions of covariates such as polynomials. The procedure can also be used to produce multiply imputed complete data sets. A simulation study is presented as well as the analysis of a longitudinal data set. The paper also shows how existing multiprocess models for handling endogeneity can be extended by the framework proposed

Super-resolution imaging using a camera array

The angular resolution of many commercial imaging systems is limited, not by diffraction or optical aberrations, but by pixilation effects. Multiaperture imaging has previously demonstrated the potential for super-resolution (SR) imaging using a lenslet array and single detector array. We describe the practical demonstration of SR imaging using an array of 25 independent commercial-off-the-shelf cameras. This technique demonstrates the potential for increasing the angular resolution toward the diffraction limit, but without the limit on angular resolution imposed by the use of a single detector array

Multispectral oximetry of murine tendon microvasculature with inflammation

We report a novel multispectral imaging technique for localised measurement of vascular oxygen saturation (SO2) in vivo. Annular back-illumination is generated using a Schwarzchild-design reflective objective. Analysis of multispectral data is performed using a calibration-free oximetry algorithm. This technique is applied to oximetry in mice to measure SO2 in microvasculature supplying inflamed tendon tissue in the hind leg. Average SO2 for controls was 94.8 ± 7.0 % (N = 6), and 84.0 ± 13.5 % for mice with inflamed tendon tissue (N = 6). We believe this to be the first localised measurement of hypoxia in tendon microvasculature due to inflammation. Quantification of localised SO2 is important for the study of inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, where hypoxia is thought to play a role in pathogenesis

Abundance, distribution, and habitat of leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) off California, 1990−2003

Leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) are regularly seen off the U.S. West Coast, where they forage on jellyfish (Scyphomedusae) during summer and fall. Aerial line-transect surveys were conducted in neritic waters (<92 m depth) off central and northern California during 1990−2003, providing the first foraging population estimates for Pacific leatherback turtles. Males and females of about 1.1 to 2.1 m length were observed. Estimated abundance was linked to the Northern Oscillation Index and ranged from 12 (coefficient of variation [CV] =0.75) in 1995 to 379 (CV= 0.23) in 1990, averaging 178 (CV= 0.15). Greatest densities were found off central California, where oceanographic retention areas or upwelling shadows created favorable habitat for leatherback turtle prey. Results from independent telemetry studies have linked leatherback turtles off the U.S. West Coast to one of the two largest remaining Pacific breeding populations, at Jamursba Medi, Indonesia. Nearshore waters off California thus represent an important foraging region for the critically endangered Pacific leatherback turtle

Annual Survey of Virginia Law: Construction Law

Developments in Virginia construction law during the year 1999-2000 were more modest than those of 1998-1999. Still, several decisions by the Supreme Court of Virginia, the Virginia Court of Appeals, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit justify the attention of those involved in the construction industry and its related legal practice. These cases address topics involving mechanic\u27s lien waivers, the bar of sovereign immunity, recovery of direct and consequential damages, surety obligations, tortious interference with the bid process, and sanctions by the Virginia Board of Contractors. The majority of these cases demonstrate that the appellate courts are more likely to rule based upon the totality of the facts that define the contractual relationship rather than relying upon some particular and discrete phrase in the contract as the determinative factor

Annual Survey of Virginia Law: Construction Law

In 1998 and 1999, the Supreme Court of Virginia decided numerous cases that impact the practice of construction litigation in the Commonwealth. This flurry of activity by the high court reflects its apparent attempt to clarify an approach to the interpretation of contracts that fall outside the scope of the Uniform Commercial Code. By addressing an increasing number of cases in this area of the law, the court has been able to adapt many of its longstanding precedents to the problems found in today\u27s construction contracting environment. This Survey article evaluates recent construction cases concerning the use of applicable federal law in contracts governed by Virginia law, the appropriate measure of delay damages, the grounds for finding a contract or modification between parties, the enforcement ofliquidated damages provisions, the proper enforcement of the statute of limitations or statute of repose, and the application of statutory remedies

Minimally Invasive Optical Biopsy for Oximetry

The study of localised oxygen saturation in blood vessels can shed light on the etiology and progression of many diseases with which hypoxia is associated. For example, hypoxia in the tendon has been linked to early stages of rheumatoid arthritis, an auto-immune inflammatory disease. Vascular oximetry of deep tissue presents significant challenges as vessels are not optically accessible. In this paper, we present a novel multispectral imaging technique for vascular oximetry, and recent developments made towards its adaptation for minimally invasive imaging. We present proof-of-concept of the system and illumination scheme as well as the analysis technique. We present results of a validation study performed in vivo on mice with acutely inflamed tendons. Adaptation of the technique for minimally invasive microendoscopy is also presented, along with preliminary results of minimally invasive ex vivo vascular oximetry

Empirical Investigation of Flexible Pricing and Payment Alternatives on Canadian Wheat Board Pooling for Wheat

Crop Production/Industries, Marketing,

The dynamical approach to spacetime theories

We review the dynamical approach to spacetime theories---in particular, (a) its origins in the development of special relativity, (b) its opposition to the contemporary `geometrical' approach, and (c) the manner in which it plays out in general relativity. In addition, we demonstrate that the approach is compatible with the `angle bracket school'