cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear theories of axisymmetric bending of functionally graded circular plates with modified couple stress

Abstract A microstructure-dependent nonlinear theory for axisymmetric bending of circular plates, which accounts for through-thickness power-law variation of a two-constituent material, is developed using the principle of virtual displacements. The formulation is based on a modified couple stress theory, power-law variation of the material, temperature-dependent properties, and the von Karman geometric nonlinearity. Classical and first-order shear deformation theories are considered in the study. The modified couple stress theory contains a material length scale parameter that can capture the size effect in a functionally graded material plate. The theories presented herein can be used to develop analytical solutions of bending, buckling, and free vibration for the linear case and finite-element models for the nonlinear case to determine the effect of the geometric nonlinearity, power-law index, and microstructure-dependent constitutive relations on linear and nonlinear response of axisymmetric analysis of circular plates.
Russia and nuclear coercion: How necessary? How much?

(1997). Russia and nuclear coercion: How necessary? How much? The Journal of Slavic Military Studies: Vol. 10, No. 3, pp. 56-78.
Adsorption and thermal decomposition of N2H4 and CH3N2H3 on Si(111)7 × 7

The adsorption and thermal decomposition of N2H4 and CH3N2H3 on Si(111)7 × 7 were investigated using XPS, UPS and HREELS in the 120–1350 K surface temperature range. Both molecules were partially dissociated into N2Hx or CH3N2Hx (x=2, 3) species with the N-N bond parallel or nearly parallel to the surface as they adsorbed on the surface at 120 K, especially at lower dosages (e.g., < 0.2 L) and more so for N2H4 than CH3N2H3. This was evidenced by the appearance of the Si-H vibration at 255 meV in the HREEL spectra and by the relatively larger FWHMs of the N1s XPS and the n+, n− molecular UPS peaks. When a ∼0.4 L N2H4 or CH3N2H3 dosed sample was annealed to ∼500 K, significant desorption of the molecules occurred as well as further dissociation of the NH bonds. Above ∼600 K the NN bond began to break for both molecules. At ∼730 K, the CN bond dissociated to form CHx on the surface in the case of CH3N2H3. Further annealing of the sample caused complete cracking of the N-H and C-H bonds until Si3N4 or a mixture of Si-nitride and Si-carbide were formed for N2H4 or CH3N2H3, respectively.
Cellular interface morphologies in directional solidification. The one-sided model

Results of the shape and stability of finite-amplitude cellular interfaces arising in directional solidification are reported for a binary alloy described by a "one-sided" solidification model in which an imposed temperature gradient is unaffected by changes in interface shape. Asymptotic results valid for slightly deformed melt-solid interface shapes describe both smooth and sudden transitions to cellular interfaces in terms of supercritical and subcritical bifurcations with decreasing temperature gradient. Computer-implemented perturbation methods are combined with finite-element approximations of interface shape and concentration field to verify the asymptotic results for small-amplitude cells and extend the analysis to highly deformed interfaces. Numerical results predict that at large amplitudes, families of cellular interfaces which first evolved unstably toward increased temperature gradient reverse direction and regain stability. A discontinuous change in the stable interface morphology with an effective halving of its spatial wavelength is predicted to occur for highly deformed interfaces by secondary bifurcation between two neighboring shape familes and is related to the existence of second-order critical points for the onset of cellular forms.
Researching US regulation of the banking industry through official publications

Abstract Part I of this article traces the legislative origins of United States (US) federal agencies having primary responsibility for regulating the current US banking industry. These agencies include: Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), the Federal Reserve Board (FRB), the Farm Credit Administration (FCA), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS), and the Federal Housing Finance Board (FHFB). Each agency's publications are listed (including whether these items are presently distributed through the Federal Depository Library System), along with corresponding telephone numbers and mailing addresses. It further lists each agency's Internet site with brief outlines of the contents of each site. Part II includes a list of other resources to consider (paper and electronic) when researching legislative information on this subject.
Characterization of RNA in Cytologic Samples Preserved in a Methanol-Based Collection Solution.

Background: ThinPrep is a fluid-based technique for collection and processing of cytologic specimens. The present study was designed to determine whether the collection solution preserved RNA for molecular analysis. Methods and Results: Cervical cancer cell lines and cord blood lymphocytes were used to test the efficacy of various protocols for fixation, storage, and extraction of RNA. Total RNA was extracted and analyzed by denaturing gel electrophoresis. Preserved cells stored for 24 hours at room temperature or 4°C had intact 28S and 18S ribosomal RNA. Both cellular and viral messenger RNAs were amplified from preserved samples by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Viral messenger RNA (mRNA) could be detected in a mixture of preserved cells containing 10% human papillomavirus (HPV) positive cells. RNA preservation in clinical samples was adequate for RT-PCR of cellular mRNA. Conclusions: Both experimental samples and clinical samples collected in the preservation media had intact total RNA. Amplification of both cellular and HPV mRNA was successful.
The effect of pupil size on accommodation.

Abstract Accommodation was measured with a laser optometer while viewing letter charts through a series of artificial pupils over a range of distances. As pupil size is reduced, the amplitude of accommodation is diminished, approaching a fixed intermediate resting focus corresponding to approx 1 m. These data are interpreted as supporting the intermediate as opposed to the classical infinity resting focus hypothesis. Implications for instrument myopia and the relationship between perceived distance and accommodation are discussed.
Performance of a reading task by an elementary perceiving and memorizing program

Abstract : Some experiments are reported which show that the mechanisms postulated in EPAM for the rote memory tasks are adequate for simulating, at least macroscopically, the processes employed by human beings in acquiring the ability to read and understand printed words. A summary description of the EPAM program is provided mentioning the main processes it uses in rote memory tasks. The manner in which these processes are used in learning to read is described.
Negative Information Action: Danger for Democracy

This article explores evidence of, and provides insight into, secrecy-related information actions that are sometimes used to circumvent established government policy and law. These information actions may also be used to cover up such circumventions after the fact. To better understand secrecy as a negative information action and its impact on democracy, secrecy-related information actions are described according to methods, information technologies, and knowledge support. Negative information actions are willful and deliberate acts designed to keep government information from those in government and the public entitled to it. Negative information actions subvert the rule of law and the constitutional checks and balances. Negative information actions used by government officials to violate policies and laws during the IranContra Affair are identified, analyzed, and categorized by type. The relative impact of negative information actions on enlightened citizen understanding is demonstrated using a Negative Information Action Model by assigning a location according to type on a continuum of enlightened citizen understanding. Findings are compared with democratic theory and conspiracy doctrine.
Gas detection and minimization of gas and heat production at the end of fast charging

Abstract Fast charging of lead/acid batteries in electric vehicles has become a focal point of attention. Fast-charge algorithms depend on the accurate determination of the gassing point during any state-of-charge and are generally limited to providing 85% of the charge in a very short time. The remaining 15% requires much more time due to the low charge acceptance of the battery. This paper describes test results that indicate that with accurate determination of the gassing point and by pulse charging with a frequency and amplitude related to the state-of-charge of the battery, one can accelerate the final phase of charging. The test results show that there is a time lag between the onset of the charge reaction and the onset of the gassing reaction if a charge pulse is given to a lead/acid battery. This time lag depends on the state-of-charge and the battery charge current amplitude. The result has important implications for a fast-charge algorithm: if the current is pulsed such that it is reduced before full gassing sets in, then higher charging rates are possibe during the gassing phase of the charge, at reduced gas development, by using pulse charging than would be possible with constant-current charging.
New Results on the Bc− Meson at the Tevatron

We present recent results on B c − meson from the Tevatron. The B c − meson has been observed in semileptonic decays, B c − → J / ψ l − ν X , both by CDF and DO experiments at a significance larger than 5σ. The DO experiment has used the candidates in B c − → J / ψ μ − ν X decay to extract the mass and lifetime of B c − meson. The CDF experiment has used both electron and muon channel candidates in B c − → J / ψ l − ν X decays to measure the relative production times branching ratio with respect to B c − → J / ψ K − decay and also measured the lifetime of B c − meson in electron channel as τ ( B c − ) = 0.463 −0.065 +0.073 ± 0.036 ps . The CDF experiment has also observed B c − → J / ψ π − decay with a significance exceeding 6.5σ and has measured the mass of B c − meson as M ( B c − ) = 6276.5 ± 4.0 ± 2.7 M e V / c 2 .
The Failure of Antihistaminic Drugs to Prevent or Cure the Common Cold and Undifferentiated Respiratory Diseases

THE value of the antihistaminic drugs in the treatment and prevention of the common cold and undifferentiated respiratory diseases has been investigated as follows: by observation of the effect of the drugs in naturally occurring respiratory infections; and by determination of the influence of the drugs on the occurrence and subsequent course of common colds developing after the experimental inoculation of normal volunteers. In neither type of study have the drugs proved to be effective. The procedures employed and the results obtained in the two studies are presented below under separate headings. Use of Antihistaminic Drugs in Naturally Occurring Respiratory . . .
The Sixth Transmembrane Domains of the Human B1 and B2 Bradykinin Receptors Are Structurally Compatible and Involved in Discriminating between Subtype-selective Agonists

In order to investigate the molecular basis for the ability of the human B1 and B2 bradykinin (BK) receptor subtypes to discriminate between subtype-selective ligands, we constructed chimeric proteins in which the sixth transmembrane domains (TM-VI) of these receptors were exchanged. The pharmacological profiles of the constructs were analyzed by radioligand binding in particulate preparations of transiently transfected HEK293 cells using the agonist [3H]des-Arg10-kallidin and the antagonist [3H]NPC17731. The ability of these constructs to transmit an intracellular signal was measured in transiently transfected A10 cells, a vascular smooth muscle cell line, by single cell Ca2+ imaging. Substitution of B1 TM-VI into the B2 receptor (B2(B1VI)) dramatically reduced the affinity of the B2-selective agonist BK, whereas the affinity of the B2-selective antagonist NPC17731 was unaltered. High affinity BK binding was fully regained when two residues, Tyr259 and Ala263, near the extracellular surface of TM-VI in B2(B1VI), were replaced with the corresponding residues in the wild-type B2 receptor, which are Phe259 and Thr263. The construct B1(B2VI), produced by substitution of B2 TM-VI into the B1 receptor, did not support high affinity binding of the B1-selective agonist des-Arg10-kallidin. In contrast to BK and des-Arg10-kallidin, the binding of the less subtype-selective agonist kallidin showed little sensitivity to TM-VI exchange. These results show that TM-VI in the human B1 and B2 BK receptor subtypes, although only 36% identical, are structurally compatible. Furthermore, this domain contributes significantly to the ability of these receptors to discriminate between the subtype-selective agonists BK and des-Arg10-kallidin.
Fish Lymphocytes Differ in the Expression of Surface Immunoglobulin

Abstract Catfish peripheral blood and splenic lymphocytes were assayed for surface immunoglobulin using fifteen different mouse hybridoma antibodies to catfish immunoglobulin (Ig). These studies showed that this battery of monoclonal antibodies did not detect significant amounts of Ig on all lymphocytes. Unlike polyclonal antisera which demonstrated nearly 100% surface Ig + cells, the monoclonal antibodies detected ∿40% surface Ig + cells. Furthermore, the percentage of Ig cells reactive with two of these monoclonals, tentatively shown to react with two different types of catfish light chains, was found to be nearly additive when the two antibodies were mixed. Thus it seems that fish lymphocytes, like their mammalian counterparts, have two different populations of lymphocytes; one which contains abundant surface Ig and one which does not. Whether these two types of cells represent the fish equivalents of B and T cells remains to be determined.
Basic genetic-algorithm-neural-network (GANN) pattern with a self-organizing security example

The anti-system adversarial community is characterized as a self-organizing system-of-systems, noted collectively for its leadership in rapid evolution and innovative advancement; widening the gap between security costand security losses. Itappears thatsystem security strategy cannothope to even achieve parity withouta comparable self-organizing strategy. Toward thatend a project is underway to catalog re-usable patterns of self-organizing security of many kinds, principally found in natural systems, butalso seen in recent computational approaches. One class of pattern of special interest involves discovery of previously unseen threats and attacks. In general this class of pattern has aspects of learning, innovation, and evolution as capability objectives. The genetic algorithm is one such pattern. Another such pattern is seen in artificial neural networks. Combining the two into a Genetic Algorithm augmented Neural Network, often called GANN, has considerable recenthistory in the literature. Not many of these are directly related to security applications. Some security-application work shows GANNs employed for feature selection provide enhanced learning performance and accuracy, and avoidance of local minimum traps. This paper adds the GANN pattern to the self-organizing security pattern catalog, and applies the pattern to a self-organizing security application under development.
Collaborating to understand—Without being a ‘wimp’

People engaged in business, politics, and diplomacy-and especially the law­ yers who serve them-spend most of their energies in competing, in seeking to win, and yes, in negotiating to gain an advantage. We view much of the world as adversarial, and we tend to judge ourselves and our peers on a scale that measures feistiness as we overcome obstacles put in the way by others. Those who don't display this feistiness are often perceived as "wimps"­ weak, ineffectual people who don't believe that winning is everything. It is my opinion, however, that "wimps" who choose to use collaborative prob­ lem solving before resorting to feisty battle may often be the more effective negotiators. In the first issue of NegotiationJournal, the editor "defined (negotiation) most generally as the settlement of differences and the waging of conflict through verbal exchange" (Rubin, 1985, p. 5). A different definition ofnegoti­ ation appeared in the second issue of the Journal, and it comes closer to the meaning I give to collaborative problem solving in this article. If one characterizes negotiation as an interactive process by which two or more people seekjointly or cooperatively to do better than they could other­ wise [emphasis added], then the otherwise becomes crucial. (Lax and Sebenius, 1985, p. 163) Many years spent in dispute settlement of one kind or another have per­ suaded me that our cultural heritage and the institutions that it has spawned
Imperfections, a main contributor to scatter in experimental values of buckling load

Abstract This paper develops a novel approach for testing cylindrical shells. A method of buckle restriction by means of an internal mandrel is used. This mandrel is located at a distance equivalent to the thickness of the shell from the surface of the test specimen. By means of this device it is possible to elastically buckle the shell until the shell is completely filled with buckles. It is shown that the variation of the rate of change in number of buckles as a function of the applied load follows a Gaussian distribution. The mode of the Gaussian curve is located at a load level which agrees very closely with the critical buckling load computed from the classic formula. It is considered that the evidence presented is substantial support for the small displacement theory and a strong indication that buckling takes place first at the weakest section of the shell and the amount of buckling is a function of the area of weakness.
5. Perineal injury during childbirth increases inflammatory response and risk of postpartum depression

Childbirth leads to perineal injury in the majority of women delivering vaginally, half of whom require suturing. Although studies have shown women with moderate to severe perineal injury are more likely to report depressed mood, no biological mechanisms have been explored. We tested the hypotheses that compared to women with no or mild injury, women with significant perineal injury would be at increased risk of PPD related to the pro-inflammatory response to trauma. Women were recruited during their 3rd trimester and data were collected on Days 7 and 14, and Months 1, 2, 3, and 6 after childbirth. The Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Survey (EPDS) was used to evaluate mood and plasma was collected for cytokine levels. History of perineal injury was gathered by self-report and chart review. Of 203 women enrolled, birth outcome is known in 184 with 158 (86%) delivering vaginally. Of these, 98 experienced a perineal tear; 49 tears were 2nd degree or higher. After controlling for confounding variables, women experiencing a 2nd degree or higher tear reported elevated symptoms of postpartum depression (p
Moderator-variable effect on the Brief Symptom Inventory test-item endorsements of spinal cord injury patients

This study shows that results from the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), an instrument used in several US rehabilitation centers to assess psychological distress among patients, are significantly confounded by the somatic characteristics of physically disabled patients with a specific diagnosis: spinal cord injury. Our findings also illustrate the nature and the effect of this moderator variable of physical condition on BSI item endorsement and suggest a method for controlling the moderator's variable effect. The BSI item responses of 288 persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) were compared to a non-patient normative sample of 719 persons. Thirty-six items reliably differentiated the two groups (p < 0.001) and seven of these items were judged to be physical sequelae of SCI. Other highly endorsed items describe a frequent pattern of psychological response to SCI. This response pattern does not appear to reflect the latent variables which are claimed to underlie test items. Expected endorsement of these items by patients with SCI can lead to errors in test interpretation by rehabilitation professionals.
Visualization of the laminar-turbulent transition in the flow over an airfoil using the smoke-wire technique

A flow visualization technique, referred to as the smoke-wire, was used for visualization of the transition of the free shear layer associated with the laminar separation bubble of a NACA 66 sub 3-018 airfoil section at low Reynolds number (50,000-130,000). The smoke-wire technique allows the introduction of fine smoke streaklines into the flow field through the electrical resistive heating of a very fine wire which has been coated with oil and which is located upstream from the leading edge of the airfoil section. Streakline data were collected using both high speed still and motion picture photography.
The Impact of Like-Mentors for Gay/Lesbian Employees

Although research has shown that mentors contribute significantly to employees' job-related outcomes, less research has examined the influence of diverse mentors have on similarly diverse proteges. As such, the current research examined the job-related outcomes of gay/lesbian workers who had a gay/lesbian mentor, a heterosexual mentor, or no mentor. Results showed that participants who had a mentor received more benefits than those without one. Also, gay/lesbian employees who had gay/lesbian mentors reported increased psychosocial job-related outcomes (e.g., job satisfaction) but did not experience increased tangible outcomes (e.g., salary, promotions).
Evolution of lamina anatomy in the palm family (Arecaceae)

The unique properties of tree building in Arecaceae strongly constrain their architectural lability. Potentially compensating for this limitation, the extensive diversification of leaf anatomical structure within palms involves many characters whose alternate states may confer disparate mechanical or physiological capabilities. In the context of a recent global palm phylogeny, we analyzed the evolution of 10 such lamina anatomical characters and leaf morphology of 161 genera, conducting parsimony and maximum likelihood ancestral state reconstructions, as well as tests of correlated evolution. Lamina morphology evolves independently from anatomy. Although many characters do optimize as synapomorphic for major clades, anatomical evolution is highly homoplasious. Nevertheless, it is not random: analyses indicate the recurrent evolution of different cohorts of correlated character states. Notable are two surface layer (epidermis and hypodermis) types: (1) a parallel-laminated type of rectangular epidermal cells with sinuous anticlinal walls, with fibers present in the hypodermis and (2) a cross-laminated type of hexagonal cells in both layers. Correlated with the cross-laminated type is a remarkable decrease in the volume fraction of fibers, accompanied by changes in the architecture and sheath cell type of the transverse veins. We discuss these and other major patterns of anatomical evolution in relation to their biomechanical and ecophysiological significance.
Sensitivity Analysis of a PWR Response During a Loss of Coolant Accident Under a Hypothetical Core Blockage Scenario Using RELAP5-3D

During a Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA) a substantial amount of debris may be generated in containment during the blowdown phase. This debris can become a major safety concern since it can potentially impact the Emergency Core Cooling System (ECCS). Debris, produced by the LOCA break flow and transported to the sump, could pass through the filtering systems (debris bed and sump strainer) in the long term cooling phase. If the debris were to sufficiently accumulate at the core inlet region, the core flow could theoretically decrease, affecting the core coolability. Under such conditions, the removal of decay heat would only be possible by coolant flow reaching the core through alternative flow paths, such as the core bypass (baffle). There are certain plant specific features that can play a major role in core cooling from this bypass flow. One of these of key interest is the pressure relief holes. A typical 4-loop Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) was modeled using RELAP5-3D to simulate the reactor system response during the phases of a large break LOCA and the effectiveness of core cooling under full core blockage was analyzed. The simulation results showed that the presence of alternative flow paths may significantly increase core coolability and prevent cladding temperatures from reaching safety limits, while the lack of LOCA holes may lead to a conservative over-prediction of the cladding temperature.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Computational analysis reveals increased blood deposition following repeated mild traumatic brain injury

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) has become an increasing public health concern as subsequent injuries can exacerbate existing neuropathology and result in neurological deficits. This study investigated the temporal development of cortical lesions using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess two mTBIs delivered to opposite cortical hemispheres. The controlled cortical impact model was used to produce an initial mTBI on the right cortex followed by a second injury induced on the left cortex at 3 (rmTBI 3d) or 7 (rmTBI 7d) days later. Histogram analysis was combined with a novel semi-automated computational approach to perform a voxel-wise examination of extravascular blood and edema volumes within the lesion. Examination of lesion volume 1d post last injury revealed increased tissue abnormalities within rmTBI 7d animals compared to other groups, particularly at the site of the second impact. Histogram analysis of lesion T2 values suggested increased edematous tissue within the rmTBI 3d group and elevated blood deposition in the rm TBI 7d animals. Further quantification of lesion composition for blood and edema containing voxels supported our histogram findings, with increased edema at the site of second impact in rmTBI 3d animals and elevated blood deposition in the rmTBI 7d group at the site of the first injury. Histological measurements revealed spatial overlap of regions containing blood deposition and microglial activation within the cortices of all animals. In conclusion, our findings suggest that there is a window of tissue vulnerability where a second distant mTBI, induced 7d after an initial injury, exacerbates tissue abnormalities consistent with hemorrhagic progression.
A computational model of mechanisms controlling experience-dependent reorganization of representational maps in auditory cortex

Cortical representations of sound can be modified by repeatedly pairing presentation of a pure tone with electrical stimulation of neuromodulatory neurons located in the basal forebrain (Bakin & Weinberger, 1996; Kilgard & Merzenich, 1998a). We developed a computational model to investigate the possible effects of basal forebrain modulation on map reorganization in the auditory cortex. The model is a self-organizing map with acoustic response characteristics mimicking those observed in the mammalian auditory cortex. We simulated the effects of basal forebrain modulation, using parameters intrinsic to the self-organizing map, such as the learning rate (controlling the adaptability of map nodes) and the neighborhood function (controlling the excitability of map nodes). Previous research has suggested that both parameters can be useful for characterizing the effects of neuromodulation on plasticity (Kohonen, 1993; Myers et al., 1996; Myers, Ermita, Hasselmo, & Gluck, 1998). The model successfully accounts for experimentally observed effects of pairing basal forebrain stimulation with the presentation of a single tone, but not of two tones, suggesting that auditory cortical plasticity is constrained in ways not accounted for by current theories. Despite this limitation, the model provides a useful framework for describing experience-induced changes in auditory representations and for relating such changes to variations in the excitability and adaptability of cortical neurons produced by neuromodulation.
A BASIC computer program for calculation of photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and related parameters in an open gas exchange system

Computer programs written in BASICA (IBM'S VERSION OF BASIC) language were developed for the calculation of the gas exchange parameters of CO2 assimilation, leaf conductance, stomatal conductance, residual conductance, intercellular CO2 concentration, transpiration, water use efficiency and transpiration ratio in an open system. Formulas are discussed in both an algebraic and in a BASIC computer program form. Calculations based on mole fractions of CO2 and water vapor are explained and both molar and mass fluxes are included in the program output to facilitate comparisons with data from the literature. Corrections are made in the program to account for under-estimation of CO2 assimilation due to the increase in flow rates out of sample chambers caused by simultaneous transpiration. A sample output is included to illustrate the formatting capability of the program.
The spectrum of valproic acid-associated pancreatitis.

OBJECTIVE. Our goal was to characterize valproic acid–associated pancreatitis in children. PATIENTS AND METHODS. The charts of all patients with pancreatitis (diagnosed by using strict criteria) associated with valproic acid during a 10-year period were reviewed. Clinical and laboratory results were abstracted. RESULTS. Twenty-two patients with valproic acid–associated pancreatitis were seen during the study period. Symptoms were similar to those of patients with pancreatitis from other etiologies and included abdominal pain/tenderness (83%), vomiting/retching (74%), abdominal distention (30%), and fever/chills (26%). Valproic acid levels were in the therapeutic range in all but 1 patient. The mean duration of therapy before the onset of pancreatitis was 32 months. The serum lipase level was >3 times the reference value in all patients, but the serum amylase level was not significantly elevated in 31% of the patients tested. Imaging studies altered clinical management in only 1 patient. The length of stay was generally brief (mean: 8 days). Two patients died. Of the 5 patients who were rechallenged, 4 had relapses. CONCLUSIONS. Valproic acid–associated pancreatitis does not depend on valproic acid serum level and may occur any time after the onset of therapy. The serum lipase level is more sensitive than the serum amylase level and should be obtained when pancreatitis is suspected. Early imaging studies did not change clinical management. Rechallenge with valproic acid is dangerous and should be avoided.
Measurement of the water droplet size in water-in-oil emulsions using low field nuclear magnetic resonance for gas hydrate slurry applications

Turbulent flow in oil and gas pipelines often results in the formation of a water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion. Small water droplets in the pipeline provide a large total surface area for hydrate formatio...
Gastric satiation is volumetric, intestinal satiation is nutritive

Gerry Smith's thoughtful survey in his book Satiation (1998) outlined the established principles of gastric and intestinal satiation and delineated several questions still requiring clarification. Experiments since the time of the review have addressed some of these questions. A synthesis of the principles outlined in the Gerry Smith survey and the subsequent experimental results indicates that the direct controls, or neural feedback signals from the GI tract, that limit meal size consist of gastric volumetric signals and intestinal nutritive signals. The two types of negative feedback synergize in the control of feeding, and both are carried by vagal afferents.
The categoricity problem and truth-value gaps

solves the problem for the classical propositional calculus, and for predicate and modal systems based upon it. As I show, however, his method of axiomatization breaks down over calculi that permit truth-value gaps breaks down, indeed, even over the central cases of compact calculi that classify sentences simply as true, as false, or as neither. I produce a method that handles these cases, and illustrate it by giving a categorical axiomatization for a propositional fragment of Smiley's own (1960) free predicate calculus. 1. The categoricity problem, and Smiley's solution to it
Platelet PlA2 polymorphism enhances risk of neurocognitive decline after cardiopulmonary bypass

Abstract Background . Neurocognitive decline, often produced by atherosclerotic plaque embolization, remains a frequent complication of cardiopulmonary bypass. Plaque fragments may initiate local thrombosis, which, in turn, aggravates the embolic insult. Prothrombotic genetic factors may exacerbate this process. We investigated whether the Pl A2 polymorphism of platelet GPIIIa, a prothrombotic risk factor in other cardiovascular settings, is associated with early neurocognitive decline after cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods . Neurocognitive changes were evaluated by the Mini-Mental State Examination administered preoperatively and on postoperative day 4 and the Pl A genotype determined in 70 patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. Results . Forty-nine patients were Pl A1/A1 , and 21 were Pl A1/A2 or Pl A2/A2 . Fifty-two patients (74%) demonstrated post–cardiopulmonary bypass neurocognitive decline, of which 34 were Pl A1/A1 and 18 were Pl A1/A2 or Pl A2/A2 . Multivariate analysis revealed that the Pl A2 genotype and baseline Mini-Mental State Examination were significantly associated with greater neurocognitive decline (decreased Mini-Mental State Examination scores, p = 0.036 and 0.024, respectively). Conclusions . This study demonstrates a link between the Pl A2 allele of platelet GPIIIa and more severe neurocognitive decline after cardiopulmonary bypass. Although the mechanism is unknown, it could represent exacerbation of platelet-dependent thrombotic processes associated with plaque embolism.
Algorithmic composition as a model of creativity

There are two distinct types of creativity: the flash out of the blue (inspiration? genius?), and the process of incremental revisions (hard work). Not only are we years away from modelling the former, we do not even begin to understand it. The latter is algorithmic in nature and has been modelled in many systems both musical and nonhmusical. Algorithmic composition is as old as music composition. It is often considered a cheat, a way out when the composer needs material and/or inspiration. It can also be thought of as a compositional tool that simply makes the composer’s work go faster. This article makes a case for algorithmic composition as such a tool. The ‘hard work’ type of creativity often involves trying many different combinations and choosing one over the others. It seems natural to express this iterative task as a computer algorithm. The implementation issues can be reduced to two components: how to understand one’s own creative process well enough to reproduce it as an algorithm, and how to program a computer to differentiate between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ music. The philosophical issues reduce to the question who or what is responsible for the music produced?
Josephson voltage standard based on single-flux-quantum voltage multipliers

A Josephson single-flux-quantum voltage/frequency multiplier circuit is proposed as the basic building block for a new generation of voltage standards. The circuit uses magnetic coupling to synchronize a series array of independent junction oscillators to the flux flow in a Josephson transmission line. A cascade of these circuits can multiply an arbitrarily low input frequency up to the frequency limit of the circuit ( approximately=250 GHz) and then add the voltages across approximately 30000 oscillators to generate precise voltages up to 10 V. Because the oscillators can be switched on and off with a bias current, the output voltage is rapidly programmable. A complete design for a voltage standard programmable in 1.2- mu V increments to a maximum of 10 V is proposed. Using existing fabrication technology, the circuit would cover a substrate area of about 1 cm/sup 2/ and use 67210 junctions. >
Modeling, analysis and simulation of ant-based network routing protocols

Using the metaphor of swarm intelligence, ant-based routing protocols deploy control packets that behave like ants to discover and optimize routes between pairs of nodes. These ant-based routing protocols provide an elegant, scalable solution to the routing problem for both wired and mobile ad hoc networks. The routing problem is highly nonlinear because the control packets alter the local routing tables as they are routed through the network. We mathematically map the local rules by which the routing tables are altered to the dynamics of the entire networks. Using dynamical systems theory, we map local protocol rules to full network performance, which helps us understand the impact of protocol parameters on network performance. In this paper, we systematically derive and analyze global models for simple ant-based routing protocols using both pheromone deposition and evaporation. In particular, we develop a stochastic model by modeling the probability density of ants over the network. The model is validated by comparing equilibrium pheromone levels produced by the global analysis to results obtained from simulation studies. We use both a Matlab simulation with ideal communications and a QualNet simulation with realistic communication models. Using these analytic and computational methods, we map out a complete phase diagram of network behavior over a small multipath network. We show the existence of both stable and unstable (inaccessible) routing solutions having varying properties of efficiency and redundancy depending upon the routing parameters. Finally, we apply these techniques to a larger 50-node network and show that the design principles acquired from studying the small model network extend to larger networks.
Quantitative vulnerability assessment of systems software

This paper addresses feasibility of vulnerabilities present in the software. Vulnerabilities present in such software represent significant security risks. For Windows 98 and Windows NT 4.0, we present plots for cumulative numbers of vulnerabilities found. A time-based model for the total vulnerabilities discovered is proposed and is fitted to the data for two operating systems. We introduce a measure termed equivalent effort and propose an alternative model which is analogous to the software reliability growth models. We present the data on known defect densities for the two operating systems and discuss the relation between densities of vulnerabilities and the general defects. This relationship could lead us to potential ways of estimating the number of vulnerabilities in future.
Extracting curvilinear features from synthetic aperture radar images of Arctic ice: algorithm discovery using the genetic programming paradigm

Focuses on how a method for automated programming (i.e., genetic programming) applies in the computer-aided discovery of algorithms that enhance and extract features from remotely sensed images. Highlighted as a case study is the use of this method in the problem of extracting pressure ridge features from ERS-1 SAR imagery; a problem for which there has been no known satisfactory solution.
Perioperative β-blockade improves outcomes in higher risk patients following non-cardiac surgery

Commentary on: London MJ, Hur K, Schwartz GG, et al. Association of perioperative β-blockade with mortality and cardiovascular morbidity following major noncardiac surgery. JAMA 2013;309:1704–13.[OpenUrl][1][CrossRef][2][PubMed][3][Web of Science][4] There has been recent controversy in the perioperative community amid allegations of scientific misconduct and there remains uncertainty about the effectiveness and safety of perioperative β-blockade in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery.1 Current American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Foundation (AHA/ACCF) Guidelines on perioperative evaluation and care for non-cardiac surgery limit a class I practice recommendation to the continuation of pre-existing β-blockade.2 The authors conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of a population-based sample of 136 745 patients who were 1:1 matched on propensity scores treated at 104 veterans affairs (VA) medical centres (96.3% men in full cohort). Perioperative risk, process and outcome data from patients undergoing non-cardiac surgical procedures … [1]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DJAMA%26rft.volume%253D309%26rft.spage%253D1704%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Adoi%252F10.1001%252Fjama.2013.4135%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Apmid%252F23613075%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx [2]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=10.1001/jama.2013.4135&link_type=DOI [3]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=23613075&link_type=MED&atom=%2Febmed%2F19%2F1%2F26.atom [4]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=000317906700027&link_type=ISI
Induction of apoptosis pathways in several cell lines following exposure to the marine algal toxin azaspiracid.

Azaspiracids (AZAs) are polyether marine dinoflagellate toxins that accumulate in shellfish and represent an emerging human health risk. Although there have been no deaths associated with the AZA toxins, humans exposed to AZAs experience severe gastrointestinal symptoms. This toxin class has been shown to be highly cytotoxic, a teratogen to developing fish, and a possible carcinogen in mice. Just recently, the AZAs have been shown to be potassium channel inhibitors. This report employed multiple human cell lines [Jurkat T lymphocytes, Caco-2 intestinal cells, and BE(2)-M17 neuroblastoma cells] in characterizing cytotoxicity and pathways of apoptosis. Cytotoxicity experiments were consistent with published literature that has shown that AZA1 is cytotoxic in both a concentration- and time-dependent manner to each cell type tested, with mean EC50 values ranging between 1.1 and 7.4 nM. Despite the absence of morphological indices indicating apoptosis, caspase-3/7 activity was higher in all cell types treated ...
Evolution of antimicrobial resistance among Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae in Brooklyn, NY

Results :F orP. aeruginosa, susceptibility to most antimicrobials fell in 2001 and then reached a plateau. However, there was a progressive decrease in the number of patients with P. aeruginosa during the three surveys. While the total number of isolates of A. baumannii remained steady, there was a progressive decrease in susceptibility to most classes of antimicrobial agents, and approximately one-third had combined resistance to carbapenems, fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides. There was a noticeable rise in the number of isolates of K. pneumoniae over the surveillance periods, suggesting that this has become the predominant pathogen in many medical centres. Over one-third of K. pneumoniae collected in 2006 carried the carbapenemase KPC, and 22% were resistant to all three classes of antimicrobial agents. Conclusions: Hospitals in our region have been beset with antimicrobial-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. K. pneumoniae has rapidly emerged as the most common multidrug-resistant pathogen. Improved therapeutic agents and methods of detection are needed to reduce transmission of these bacteria.
An initial study of using the 34-m antenna for lunar missions support

As a part of the long-range planning of future Mars and lunar missions, a rudimentary study has been made of a 34-m Cassegrain dual-shaped reflector antenna system with differentially pointed multiple beams. The performance loss mechanisms of the differentially pointed multiple-beam systems were identified and quantified. The goal is to determine the feasibility of using the 34-m antenna to support widely separated elements associated with lunar missions.
Higher order methods for nonlinear feedback design

An examination is made of the idea of using higher-order spectral information in the design of nonlinear servomechanisms. The higher-order concepts are contained in multidimensional transfer function representations of the Volterra kernels of the plant and its compensation. The procedure applies to the design of nonlinear feedback dynamics and to higher-order feedforward excitation of the closed-loop system. A recursive algorithm for realization of the higher-order kernel transforms obtained in the design is presented. The method is systematic in both design and realization and demonstrates a potential improvement in performance in nonlinear servomechanism design. >
Current Perspectives on the Advantages of 3-T MR Imaging of the Wrist

The use of 3-T magnetic resonance (MR) imaging systems with improved coil designs and high-resolution MR imaging sequences allows visualization of the musculoskeletal anatomy in exquisite detail and accurate characterization of abnormalities both in soft tissues and in bone. Current high-field-strength MR systems offer particular advantages for diagnostic imaging of the small joints of the extremities, especially the wrists, where multiple overlapping soft-tissue structures may be visually inseparable at lower field strengths because of limited contrast resolution. Diagnostic accuracy obtained with 3-T MR imaging of the wrist performed with an acquisition protocol that includes three-dimensional and proton density-weighted imaging sequences is nearly commensurate with that obtained with MR arthrography. Abnormalities of the ligaments, tendons, cartilage, nerves, blood vessels, and bone are clearly depicted, allowing accurate characterization of perforations, tears, and fractures, as well as various soft-tissue and intraosseous lesions (eg, ganglion cysts), vascular malformations, aneurysms, and neuropathies.
Photodynamic therapy: a new antimicrobial approach to infectious disease?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) employs a non-toxic dye, termed a photosensitizer (PS), and low intensity visible light which, in the presence of oxygen, combine to produce cytotoxic species. PDT has the advantage of dual selectivity, in that the PS can be targeted to its destination cell or tissue and, in addition, the illumination can be spatially directed to the lesion. PDT has previously been used to kill pathogenic microorganisms in vitro, but its use to treat infections in animal models or patients has not, as yet, been much developed. It is known that Gram-(−) bacteria are resistant to PDT with many commonly used PS that will readily lead to phototoxicity in Gram-(+) species, and that PS bearing a cationic charge or the use of agents that increase the permeability of the outer membrane will increase the efficacy of killing Gram-(−) organisms. All the available evidence suggests that multi-antibiotic resistant strains are as easily killed by PDT as naive strains, and that bacteria will not readily develop resistance to PDT. Treatment of localized infections with PDT requires selectivity of the PS for microbes over host cells, delivery of the PS into the infected area and the ability to effectively illuminate the lesion. Recently, there have been reports of PDT used to treat infections in selected animal models and some clinical trials: mainly for viral lesions, but also for acne, gastric infection by Helicobacter pylori and brain abcesses. Possible future clinical applications include infections in wounds and burns, rapidly spreading and intractable soft-tissue infections and abscesses, infections in body cavities such as the mouth, ear, nasal sinus, bladder and stomach, and surface infections of the cornea and skin.