Abstract: A method for testing and/or validating the suitability of a multi-radar signature database to be used on radar systems having automatic target recognition. The database may include measured field data and/or modeled synthetic data. The technique allows field data to be compared to the synthetic data using modal mutual information.

Abstract: A deep insertion vented earpiece system is described including resilient earpieces shaped to a wearer's ear canal for a conformal fit. A receptacle is provided within the outer surface of each earpiece for releasably receiving an audio plug. The audio plugs include a miniature loudspeaker and a pair of external ribs for mating with a corresponding pair of grooves formed along the periphery of the receptacle. This rib and groove feature provides for a secure retention of the audio plugs while enabling a simple removal operation. Each earpiece includes an audio passage to conduct the audio signal from the loudspeaker and a vent passage to enable continuous venting of the wearer's ear to atmosphere.

Abstract: A quad-emissive display apparatus to provide suitable emissive energy in four spectral bands to provide simultaneous evaluation of sensors having different spectral sensitivities. The apparatus can simultaneously provide four spectral bands of visible (0.4 to 0.7 microns), near infrared (0.7 to 1.0 microns), short wave infrared (1.0 to 3.0 microns) and the long wave infrared (8.0 to 14.0 microns) radiation.

Abstract: A non-contact near field high resolution acoustic imaging system of a sample, the system including an acoustic wave generator generating a plurality of acoustic waves a ultrasonic horn amplifying the waves to an amplitude of between about 20 microns and about 300 microns, and a frequency between about 20 kHz and about 40 khz. The ultrasonic horn further directs the amplified waves to impinge upon the sample. On contact between the waves and the sample, a plurality of transmitted energy is transmitted to the sample, a plurality of longitudinal displacements and surface acoustic wave displacements in the sample are created. An adjustable separation distance lies between the sample and the ultrasonic horn, the distance adjusted to maximize the transmitted energy. The distance is preferably greater than the maximum displacement of the ultrasonic horn, or approximately 0.1 mm.

Abstract: A method for registering and fusing time-varying image sources to provide highest possible information rendering to an operator comprising the steps of aligning a plurality of image sources by matching target image to a reference image and minimizing visual registration error in a static sense and selecting target images which are best fused with a reference image using a dynamic, time-varying optimality maximum likelihood decision theory. The maximum likelihood decision theory is modified to account for time-varying using an orthogonal projection technique charactering changing density functions.

Abstract: We describe examples using aptamers for capturing and reporting the presence of a target, such as a pathogen. Examples described here include a set of aptamers that are specific to F. tularensisis. Other examples described here include an Aptamer-Linked Immobilized Sorbent Assay (ALISA) and dot blot assay. An example of a method provided here comprises: providing a set of DNA sequences that exhibit high binding affinity to target antigen, placing the DNA sequences in a sandwich aptamer-linked immobilized sorbent assay (ALISA), contacting the DNA sequences with a sample, and detecting whether the target is present in the sample. Some alternative implementations may include dot blots and different reporters. Quantum dot sandwich assays and quantum dot de-quenching reporters can be used.

Abstract: Two-photon absorbing (2PA), cross-linked polyurethanes were prepared from bis(isocyanato) monomers, tris(isocyanato) monomers or a mixture of bis(isocyanato) and tris(isocyanato) monomers, in conjunction with a novel polyol molecules with donor-acceptor octupolar geometry, whose generic structure is comprised of an electron-accepting 1,3,5-triazine hub with three spokes constituted by electron-donating triarylalkylamine end-groups, which are polyfunctionalized with thermally reactive alcohol functions. The resulting neat glassy or rubbery solids are applicable in a wide range of linear & nonlinear optical applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides a microtesting rig for measuring mechanical properties of small specimens. The rig includes a microsized specimen positioned on a mounting block, an interchangeable contact tip connected with an actuator and configured for contact with the microsized specimen, and a magnifying imaging system for imaging the microsized specimen. The contact tip may be a fiber platen for compression testing or a fiber grip for tension testing.

Abstract: A method of emulation-based page granularity code signing comprising the steps of: copying guest operating system instructions and associated hash message authentication codes and/or digital signatures of each guest operating instruction from an untrusted guest operating system memory into a trusted host operating system memory; recomputing the hash message authentication codes using a secret key in the trusted host operating system memory; maintaining the secret key in the trusted host operating system memory and inaccessible by the untrusted guest operating system instructions; translating each guest operating system instruction that has a valid hash message authentication code to a set of host operating system instructions; executing the decrypted guest operating system instructions in the trusted host operating system; and modifying the guest operating system memory and registers when the set of translated host operating instructions executes in the trusted host operating system, such that it appears as i

Abstract: An improved method for enriched chirality of single wall carbon nanotubes is described. Genomic DNA, particularly salmon DNA (SaDNA) is shown to sort out single wall carbon nanotubes of specific chirality by a process of solubilization (dissolving in solution) and separation (such as centrifuging), without requiring more complex processes such as anion exchange chromatography. A possible reason for enhanced chirality separation using DNA may be attributed to its lowered GC (guanine-cytosine) content.

Abstract: In the present invention, a technique is described for manufacturing microtube devices which have peripheral geometries that are not uniform along the tube or device axis. These geometries may exist in only one location on the periphery of the microtube device or geometries may be repeated either uniformly or non-uniformly with micron or sub-micron precision along the tube or device axis. The preferred manufacturing process involves forming a complex mandrel, ie., (one, for example, that can not be formed by extrusion or pultrusion under constant processing conditions) and giving it at least one metallic and/or nonmetallic coating by any of a variety of techniques. The complex mandrel can then be removed by appropriate chemical or physical means that do not adversely affect the coating(s) desired for the wall. The result is a microtube structure having an axial profile duplicating that on the mandrel from which it was formed.

Abstract: A novel shunt comprises: a first lumen having a first end and a second end, wherein the first lumen is composed of a polydimethylsiloxane material; a bulb-shaped portion positioned on each of the first end and the second end; a reinforcing spring extending along the first lumen from the first end and the second end; and a second lumen having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to a center portion of the first lumen and the second end is connected to a valve.

Abstract: A method is provided for determining the complexity of a system. The method includes creating a response matrix for the system, creating a contingency matrix, Cn, from the response matrix, and calculating the complexity of the system from the formula: Complexity=[?/det(CnTCn)]*Log2([(H(x)/H(y))]) wherein H(x) is the input information quantity, H(y) is the output information quantity, and ? is a dimensionless system constant. The method also includes displaying the complexity of the system.

Abstract: A millimeter wave transmission line filter having a plurality of filter pole determining coupled cavities fabricated with a multiple lithographic layer micromachining process. The filter cavities are oriented perpendicular to an underlying substrate element in order to achieve micromachining, fabrication and accuracy advantages. Multiple filters can be used in a frequency multiplex arrangement as in a duplexer. Radio frequencies in the 15 to 300 gigahertz range are contemplated.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for assessing the straightness of a flight control rod installed in an aircraft. The apparatus including a solid straight bar with a first end and a second end and two rod fixtures. The bar removably attachable to the rod fixtures that are in turn removably attachable to a flight control rod. The flight control rod may be removably inserted into rod fixture rod slots such that there is a measurable gap between the bar attached to the rod fixtures and the flight control rod to which they are attached.

Abstract: A close formation flight positioning system uses only air data measurements without a data link. The wake vortex of a lead aircraft generates horizontal, vertical and lateral induced velocities that vary with horizontal, vertical and lateral position from its wing. Two or more laterally or vertically separated air data sensors on a follower aircraft measure impact pressure, angle of attack and angle of sideslip, which are converted to horizontal, vertical and lateral velocity components. By comparing these velocity component measurements, using the distance between the sensors on the follower aircraft and the wing span of the lead aircraft, the distance from the follower to the lead aircraft can be determined. If weight, speed and altitude of the lead aircraft are known, then two sensors on the follower aircraft are sufficient to determine relative positions. If those conditions are not known, then three sensors on the follower aircraft are needed.

Abstract: Natural fiber welding is a process by which individual fibers are swollen by an appropriate ionic liquid-based solvent system to form a congealed network. Manipulated fibrous materials may be either composed of natural polymers such as cellulose, hemicellulose, silk, et cetera, or synthetic polymers, or mixed materials. The process is principally controlled by the composition of the solvent system which includes an ionic liquid solvent plus additives such as water, methanol, et cetera. Other conditions such as the amount and placement of solvent, as well as time, temperature, and pressure control the extent to which neighboring fibers are fused. Only the material at the outer surface of fibers need be sufficiently mobile to merge with that of neighboring fibers. Material in the fiber core may be left in the native state by controlling process variables. Fibers form a congealed network upon removal of the ionic liquid-based solvent.

Abstract: The present invention provides a gas turbine rotor having a first axial compression stage for compressing air in a first direction and a second axial compression stage for compressing the air in a second direction, the second direction being generally opposite the first direction.

Abstract: A semi-active seat cushion is disclosed that comprises a plurality of chambers for containing a pressurized fluid, wherein each chamber is connected to at least one other chamber by an orifice that provides a fluid connection; a supply conduit for supplying a pressurized fluid to each of the plurality of chambers; and at least one relief valve that permits rapid and controlled deflation of the plurality of chambers.

Abstract: The present invention provides a thermal history sensor having a plurality of substrates positioned adjacent to an item. The substrates include different compositions, such that the substrates respond to thermal exposures with different changes in electrical conductivity or magnetic permeability. By measuring the electrical or magnetic properties of the substrates following thermal exposure, information about the thermal history may be obtained.