cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SU-D-214-03: Experience with Using Treatment Volume for Quality Assurance of HDR Treatment Plans

Purpose: To assess the usefulness of treatment volume (V100) in patient specific HDR treatment plan quality assurance. Methods: The Nucletron Plato and Oncentra treatment planning systems were used in this study. Results from both film‐based 2D and CT‐based 3D planning have been included. Plots of time x activity/dose (T*A/D) versus V100 were constructed for various “fixed” geometry systems such as vaginal cylinders (n=167), endobronchial and esophageal tubes, (n=79) and tandem/ring systems (n=352; pt A dosimetry) as well as for larger interstitial volume implants (n=25). For single catheter applicators, plots of V100 as a function of active length (AL) or treating distance (d) were also made. Results: The T*A/D vs V100 plots for the fixed systems above were all very linear (r2 of at least 0.98); a slight improvement in some cases was noted when a second order polynomial was used to fit the data. The volume implant data were best fit with a second order polynomial (r2 = 0.98). For a given treating distance, V100 not surprisingly was a linear function of active length (2.5 to 17 cm) for single or quasi‐single (2 or 3 catheter esophagus) line applicators. We found that V100 values were extremely consistent for a given treating distance and active length (e.g. 36.64 ± 0.45 cm3 for d= 1.5 cm and AL = 4 cm). For tandem/ring applicators, V100 values could achieve similar consistency only if considerable care was taken in defining the catheters. Conclusion: Volume data provide a simple, fast and consistent method of checking new treatment plans against historic data (representative samples of which need to be independently verified). For simple applicators, both the V100 and the value of T*A/D may be used for this comparison.
Diamond synthesis by chemical vapor deposition: The early years

Abstract In the two decades following World War II there was a great surge in interest in high-pressure diamond synthesis, especially in Sweden, the United States and the Soviet Union. It is less well known that during this time major efforts were also made in low-pressure, metastable growth of diamond. All of these efforts, both high and low pressure, were characterized by great secrecy and a considerable lack of transparency. General Electric made the first public announcement of successful high pressure-high temperature diamond synthesis in 1955. The first reports of low-pressure diamond syntheses in the open literature were in 1962 (Eversole; Union Carbide Corporation) in 1968 (Angus et al.; Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, and also in 1968 (Deryagin et al.; Physical Chemistry Institute, Moscow). In addition to skepticism about the veracity of these claims, a common view was that even if true, growth rates would always be far too slow to be of interest. Also, the apparent violation of thermodynamic laws was a continuing theme by many (but not all) during this time period. These attitudes changed dramatically in the early 1980s when the National Institute for Research in Inorganic Materials (NIRIM) in Japan (Kamo, Matsumoto, Sato, Setaka) announced diamond growth rates in the micron per hour range. The role of hydrogen in diamond synthesis was suggested in 1966 by Lander and Morrison at Bell Labs. An understanding of the critical role of atomic hydrogen grew incrementally, through sequential growth-cleaning cycles (Angus, Gardner) and culminating in its using during growth by the Moscow group (Deryagin, Fedoseev, Polanskaya, Spitsyn, Varnin, et al.).
Concurrency analysis in the presence of procedures using a data-flow framework

Although the data-flow framework is a powerful tool to statically analyze a program, current data-flow analysis techniques have not addressed the effect of procedures on concurrency analysis. This work develops a data race detection technique using a data-flow framework that analyzes concurrent events in a program in which tasks and procedures interact. There are no restrictions placed on the interactions between procedures and tasks, and thus recursion is permitted. Solving a system of data-flow equations, the technique computes a partial execution order for regions in the program by considering the control flow within a program unit, communication between tasks, and the cdlinglcreation context of procedures and tasks. From the computed execution order, concurrent events are determined as unordered events. We show how the information about concurrent events can be used in debugging to automatically detect data races.
Sine-Gordon kink-antikink generation on spatially periodic potentials.

A spatially periodic perturbation can lead to a breakup of large-amplitude sine-Gordon breathers into kink and antikink solutions, each oscillating around a minimum of the perturbing potential. This behavior can be understood by studying the effective potential experienced by the breather (bound kink-antikink) or the (free) kink-antikink solution as long as kink and antikink are sufficiently far apart. The resulting kinks and antikinks move independently and nearly radiationlessly in the presence of the perturbation and can travel arbitrarily far for sufficiently large initial kinetic energy. Upon interacting with each other they are strongly affected by the perturbation, lose energy by radiating, and can end in a bound state having the character of a distorted breather.
Attendees Discuss Science Policy Outreach

The 2013 Fall Meeting provided participants with many opportunities to increase their involvement in Earth and space science policy. Whether attendees were interested in outreach campaigns, concerned about recent legal attacks on science, or fascinated by the prospect of working with policy makers, the meeting teemed with opportunities to learn and become more involved.
Mechanisms of Ectopic Gene Conversion

Gene conversion (conversion), the unidirectional transfer of DNA sequence information, occurs as a byproduct of recombinational repair of broken or damaged DNA molecules. Whereas excision repair processes replace damaged DNA by copying the complementary sequence from the undamaged strand of duplex DNA, recombinational mechanisms copy similar sequence, usually in another molecule, to replace the damaged sequence. In mitotic cells the other molecule is usually a sister chromatid, and the repair does not lead to genetic change. Less often a homologous chromosome or homologous sequence in an ectopic position is used. Conversion results from repair in two ways. First, if there was a double-strand gap at the site of a break, homologous sequence will be used as the template for synthesis to fill the gap, thus transferring sequence information in both strands. Second, recombinational repair uses complementary base pairing, and the heteroduplex molecule so formed is a source of conversion, both as heteroduplex and when donor (undamaged template) information is retained after correction of mismatched bases in heteroduplex. There are mechanisms that favour the use of sister molecules that must fail before ectopic homology can be used. Meiotic recombination events lead to the formation of crossovers required in meiosis for orderly segregation of pairs of homologous chromosomes. These events result from recombinational repair of programmed double-strand breaks, but in contrast with mitotic recombination, meiotic recombinational events occur predominantly between homologous chromosomes, so that transfer of sequence differences by conversion is very frequent. Transient recombination events that do not form crossovers form both between homologous chromosomes and between regions of ectopic homology, and leave their mark in the occurrence of frequent non-crossover conversion, including ectopic conversion.
Tick Bites and Lyme Disease: The Need for Timely Treatment

In the United States, 30,158 people were reported as having contracted Lyme disease during 2010; 96% of the cases in 2011 were reported from 13 northeast and north-central states. Time of tick attachment is a critical factor. Prolonged attachment allows time for a bacterium to move from tick to human. Patient history and meticulous skin inspection are the most important elements used in diagnosis of Lyme disease. The most common drug for treatment is doxycycline. Ticks find their hosts by several senses: odor, moisture, heat, and vibration. Avoidance of tick-infested areas, such as wooded areas and leaf piles, is paramount in preventing Lyme disease.
Katakana representation of English loanwords: Mora conservation and variable learner strategies

In Japanese, English CVC monosyllables usually show consonant gemination after obligatory vowel epenthesis (e.g. ‘put’ becomes ‘putto’). The katakana syllabary, which is a good reflection of pronunciation, allows us to study very quickly how a number of native speakers and learners at various levels handle novel loanwords. We show that, while learners do not geminate at as high a rate as native speakers do, they improve over years of study. More interestingly, learners use another strategy, namely vowel lengthening (e.g. ‘puuto’), to represent these items, a compensatory strategy, we believe, related to their perception of the proper number of morae to be rendered in the output. We show how Broselow and Park's (1995) account of mora conservation will not handle the complexity of these data, particularly learner performance in the gemination of unstressed syllables, and we provide a variable account rather than one which suggests that parameters are set to a native speaker, learner, or mixed setting. Additionally, we show the surprising influence of gender in some areas of learner performance, a reflex, we believe, of the type of male students more typically registered in Japanese language classes at the university level.
Measurement of the Deformation and Adhesion of Rough Solids in Contact

A contact mechanics approach is used to study the impact of deformations on the adhesion between microscopically rough gold and molecularly smooth mica. The surface forces apparatus was used to directly measure deformations at the interface and in the bulk, while also controlling applied loads. Surface forces and applied loads act to deform gold asperities in an unrecoverable fashion. Concurrent bulk deformations, namely the nominal area of contact, are also nonreversible. Using Johnson−Kendall−Roberts theory to interpret these findings illustrates how adhesion between the bodies effectively increases with increasing load. Correlating this phenomenon to deformations at the interface details how adhesion varies when multiple metallic asperities contact and deform under external stress. Moreover, observed hysteresis is explained.
Micromechanical Properties of Elastic Polymeric Materials As Probed by Scanning Force Microscopy

Scanning force microscopy (SFM) was used for probing micromechanical properties of compliant polymeric materials. Classic models of elastic contacts, Sneddon's, Hertzian, and JKR, were tested for various indentation depths and for a variety of polymeric materials. We selected extremely compliant polyisoprene rubbers (Young's modulus, E = 1−3 MPa), elastic polyurethanes (E = 5−50 MPa), and hard surfaces of polystyrene (PS) and polyvinylchloride (PVC) (E = 1−5 GPa). Both Sneddon's and Hertzian elastic models gave consistent and reliable results in the range of indentation depths up to 200 nm which are close to JKR solution. Close correlation is observed between absolute values of elastic moduli determined by SFM and known values for bulk materials.
Ultrasonic Storage Modulus as a Novel Parameter for Analyzing Protein-Protein Interactions in High Protein Concentration Solutions: Correlation with Static and Dynamic Light Scattering Measurements

The purpose of this work was to establish ultrasonic storage modulus (G′) as a novel parameter for characterizing protein-protein interactions (PPI) in high concentration protein solutions. Using an indigenously developed ultrasonic shear rheometer, G′ for 20–120 mg/ml solutions of a monoclonal antibody (IgG2), between pH 3.0 and 9.0 at 4 mM ionic strength, was measured at frequency of 10 MHz. Our understanding of ultrasonic rheology indicated decrease in repulsive and increase in attractive PPI with increasing solution pH. To confirm this behavior, dynamic (DLS) and static (SLS) light scattering measurements were conducted in dilute solutions. Due to technical limitations, light scattering measurements could not be conducted in concentrated solutions. Mutual-diffusion coefficient, measured by DLS, increased with IgG2 concentration at pH 4.0 and this trend reversed as pH was increased to 9.0. Second virial coefficient, measured by SLS, decreased with increasing pH. These observations were consistent with the nature of PPI understood from G′ measurements. Ultrasonic rheology, DLS, and SLS measurements were also conducted under conditions of increased ionic strength. The consistency between rheology and light scattering analysis under various solution conditions established the utility of ultrasonic G′ measurements as a novel tool for analyzing PPI in high protein concentration systems.
Usher's syndrome.

Usher's syndrome is an autosomal recessive condition of congenital sensorineural hearing loss and retinitis pigmentosa. Other abnormalities are present but inconsistently, suggesting the genetic concepts of pleiotropy and heterogeneity. Accordingly, several classifications have been suggested. Clinical findings involve the visual, auditory and vestibular systems. The identification of the carrier state would allow for more timely and accurate genetic counselling. A screening program for Usher's syndrome appears feasible. This would allow affected, deaf individuals to prepare themselves for the expected visual loss giving them a better chance for a productive, fulfilling life.
Plant resistance, plant traits, and host plant choice of the leaf-folding sawfly on the arroyo willow

. 1. The hypotheses that genetic variation in host plant resistance of the arroyo willow affected leaf folder (Phyllocolpa sp.) (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinidae) density and that genetic variation in shoot length and leaf length was correlated with resistance were tested. 2. Willows grown in pots and exposed to ovipojsition by the leaf folding sawfly in cages had significantly different densities among clones, indicating variation in resistance caused by genetic differences among conspecific host plants. 3. There was a general correspondence between leaf folder density on potted cuttings and on the plants in the field that were the sources of cuttings. 4. In behavioural choice experiments, susceptible clones (with highest leaf fold densities) had the highest oviposition activity of female leaf folders compared to clones that were resistant to the leaf folder. 5. Clones differed significantly in shoot length and leaf length among clones grown in pots, among clones in the field, and between shoots with galls and shoots without galls on clones in the field. 6. Leaf folder density was significantly positively correlated with mean shoot length on field clones in 1985 and 1986, but was not correlated with leaf length, although leaf length and shoot length were correlated. 7. Leaf length variation among willow clones accounted for a significant portion of the variation in resistance of potted willows, but shoot length was unimportant.
Modeling and Analysis of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Cold-Start

In this paper, we develop a model to investigate the cold-start operation of polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC). The model describes the electrochemical kinetics, heat/mass transport, and solid water formation in polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) during cold start. A simplified analysis is developed to investigate the temperature-dependent change of the ohmic voltage loss based on the ionic conductivity of the membrane at subfreezing temperature. 3D numerical simulation is also conducted to study the dynamics of the solid water during cold start and the distributions of ice volume fraction and current density. This study is valuable for improving the characteristics of PEFC cold-start.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Optical interconnects: topology and protocol issues

Optical interconnects for advanced computers have been postulated for the past two decades to obtain performance and reliability improvements over existing electrical interconnects. Optical interconnects have the potential for extremely high bandwidth, immunity to electromagnetic interference, elimination of radiated emissions, and lower costs. To date, this potential has yet to be realized. The ever increasing clock rates and interconnect complexity associated with emerging computer device technology as well as the increased emphasis on massively parallel processing may serve to hasten the implementation of optical interconnects into computer systems. This paper discusses some of the issues associated with the implementation of optical interconnects in advanced computer systems and presents the status of the U.S. Navy optical backplane interconnect system (OBIS) program.
Situational and Individual Influences on Judgments of Hostile Environment Sexual Harassment1

The current research examines the judgment processes of third-party evaluators of sexual harassment situations. Four situational variables were hypothesized to influence ratings of situation appropriateness and judgments of sexual harassment. The evaluator's gender and personality also were hypothesized to influence both ratings. Participants were 73 male and 51 female undergraduate students. Results indicated that behavior severity and victim response significantly influenced ratings. The frequency of the behavior influenced appropriateness ratings, but interacted with behavior severity for harassment judgments. The effects of the gender of the evaluator were mediated by the evaluator's level of tolerance for harassment. The effects of the power relationship and rater personality were not significant.
Studies on the synthesis and structure of cordycepin monophosphate

SUMMARY Cordycepin monophosphate has been synthesized by two methods. One of these was chemical and involved treatment of cordycepin with cyanoethyl phosphate in the presence of N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide with subsequent alkaline hydrolysis. The other involved a phosphate transfer from uridine 5'-phosphate to cordycepin utilizing an enzyme prepared from fresh wheat sprouts. In each instance, the product isolated proved to be the monophosphate derivative and the position of attachment of the phosphate group was shown to be on the primary hydroxyl group of the sugar.
The Dynamics of Oligopoly Behavior: A Study of the US Cigarette Industry, 1955–90

This paper uses the comparative statics method of testing for a monopoly equilibrium to track the competitiveness of the US cigarette industry between 1955 and 1990. The degree of competition ranged from somewhat less than a Coumot–Nash equilibrium would imply to somewhat more. Although the industry's behavior was highly autocorrelated, there were periodic reversions to behavior that was much more competitive than the trend
Attempted suicide, by mail order: Abrus precatorius.

Objective Abrus precatorius is cultivated in many subtropical areas. The seeds exist in a variety of colors such as black, orange, and most commonly, glossy red. A black band is found at the end of the seed. The plant contains multiple pods which typically contain three to five Abrus seeds. The seeds contain abrin, which inhibits ribosomal function, halting protein synthesis and leading to cellular death. A unique aspect of this case is the use of the internet to order a potentially lethal poison as well as transmission of a picture to identify the seed.
The myocardial cell: new concepts for the clinical cardiologist.

The Myocardial Cell: New Concepts for the Clinical Cardiologist 0009-7322. Online ISSN: 1524-4539 Copyright © 1972 American Heart Association. All rights reserved. Print ISSN: Dallas, TX 72514 Circulation is published by the American Heart Association. 7272 Greenville Avenue, 1972, 45:731-735 Circulation http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/45/4/731.citation services, is located on the World Wide Web at: The online version of this article, along with updated information and
Expression of EBV/C3d receptors on T cells: biological significance

There is overwhelming evidence that a single polypeptide serves as a receptor for both the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), and for certain enzymatic fragments of C3. This receptor, termed CR2 (CD21), is known to be expressed on the surfaces of B cells, and a large body of evidence suggests that CR2, or related structures, are also expressed on cells of the T lineage. Here, Constantine Tsoukas and John Lambris review the studies of CR2 expression in T cells and offer some speculation on its possible biological significance.
Recent developments in QM/MM methods towards open-boundary multi-scale simulations

Combined quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) methods have been widely used in multi-scale modelling and simulations of physical, chemical and biological processes in complex environments....
Crystal structure of Escherichia coli PurE, an unusual mutase in the purine biosynthetic pathway.

Abstract Background: Conversion of 5-aminoimidazole ribonucleotide (AIR) to 4-carboxyaminoimidazole ribonucleotide (CAIR) in Escherichia coli requires two proteins – PurK and PurE. PurE has recently been shown to be a mutase that catalyzes the unusual rearrangement of N 5 -carboxyaminoimidazole ribonucleotide ( N 5 -CAIR), the PurK reaction product, to CAIR. PurEs from higher eukaryotes are homologous to E. coli PurE, but use AIR and CO 2 as substrates to produce CAIR directly. Results: The 1.50 A crystal structure of PurE reveals an octameric structure with 422 symmetry. A central three-layer ( α β α ) sandwich domain and a kinked C-terminal helix form the folded structure of the monomeric unit. The structure reveals a cleft at the interface of two subunits and near the C-terminal helix of a third subunit. Co-crystallization experiments with CAIR confirm this to be the mononucleotide-binding site. The nucleotide is bound predominantly to one subunit, with conserved residues from a second subunit making up one wall of the cleft. Conclusions: The crystal structure of PurE reveals a unique quaternary structure that confirms the octameric nature of the enzyme. An analysis of the native crystal structure, in conjunction with sequence alignments and studies of co-crystals of PurE with CAIR, reveals the location of the active site. The environment of the active site and the analysis of conserved residues between the two classes of PurEs suggests a model for the differences in their substrate specificities and the relationship between their mechanisms.
Morphological decomposition of 2-D binary shapes into convex polygons: a heuristic algorithm

In many morphological shape decomposition algorithms, either a shape can only be decomposed into shape components of extremely simple forms or a time consuming search process is employed to determine a decomposition. In this paper, we present a morphological shape decomposition algorithm that decomposes a two-dimensional (2-D) binary shape into a collection of convex polygonal components. A single convex polygonal approximation for a given image is first identified. This first component is determined incrementally by selecting a sequence of basic shape primitives. These shape primitives are chosen based on shape information extracted from the given shape at different scale levels. Additional shape components are identified recursively from the difference image between the given image and the first component. Simple operations are used to repair certain concavities caused by the set difference operation. The resulting hierarchical structure provides descriptions for the given shape at different detail levels. The experiments show that the decomposition results produced by the algorithm seem to be in good agreement with the natural structures of the given shapes. The computational cost of the algorithm is significantly lower than that of an earlier search-based convex decomposition algorithm. Compared to nonconvex decomposition algorithms, our algorithm allows accurate approximations for the given shapes at low coding costs.
Correct Axonal Regeneration After Target Cell Removal in the Central Nervous System of the Leech

The unique target neuron of a severed axon in the leech was selectively eliminated by intracellular injection of protease. In the absence of the target, the severed axon regenerated normally along its original pathway to the usual site of synapse, where it stopped growing without forming alternative connections.
Atmospheric chemistry: Her dark materials.

A glitch in the history of sulphur isotopes could imply that methane emitted by the ancient biosphere created a high-altitude photochemical smog, which governed the climate in a distinctly Gaian way.
Reflections on the Past and Thoughts About the Future of the Transition Field

This article describes the author’s personal view of the secondary special education and transition field, its shortcomings, and its future within the context of our modern society.
Brief Report: Should the DSM V Drop Asperger Syndrome?

The DSM IV defines Asperger syndrome (AS) as a pervasive developmental (autistic spectrum) disorder characterized by social deficits and rigid focused interests in the absence of language impairment and cognitive delay. Since its inclusion in the DSM-IV, there has been a dramatic increase in its recognition both in children and adults. However, because studies have generally failed to demonstrate a clear distinction between AS and autism, some researchers have called for its elimination from the forthcoming DSM V. This report argues for a modification of its diagnostic criteria and its continued retention in the diagnostic manual.
An Overview of Progress in the Design And Implementation of Landsat-D Systems

Landsat-D will be launched in late 1981 or early 1982 into a Sun-synchronous orbit near 700 km. Landsat-D systems and the principal observing instrument, the Thematic Mapper, are being designed and implemented to provide a significantly improved Earth-resources monitoring capability. The Thematic Mapper will have seven spectral bands (0.45-0.52, 0.52-0.60, 0.63-0.69, 0.76-0.90, 1.55-1.75, 2.08-2.35, and 10.5-12.5 ?m), with an instantaneous field of view at nadir of 30 m except for the thermal band (120 m). The data from the Thematic Mapper and other Landsat-D flight segment systems will be relayed to the Landsat-D ground data processing system using a direct readout capability or the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System and communications satellites. The ground systems will process the data as it arrives at rates up to 100 Mbit/s and a total volume of 2.6 × 1011 bit/day into standard digital and photographic products within 48 hours of data acquisition. This includes 200 Multispectral Scanner Subsystem and 100 Thematic Mapper scenes per day. The Thematic Mapper increased spatial, spectral, and radiometric resolution should be of primary benefit in agricultural and vegetation surveys, but substantial improvements in resource and land cover observations for geology, land use, and water resources applications are also to be anticipated.
Spin-lattice relaxation, phase transitions, and molecular freedom in choline chloride and iodide

Abstract Spin-lattice relaxation times ( T 1 ) have been measured as a function of temperature for crystalline choline chloride and choline iodide. For each salt a minimum in T 1 is observed which is attributed to methyl group reorientation with activation energies in the range 4–5 kcal/mole. At temperatures above the T 1 minimum, sharp increases in T 1 are observed which are interpreted to reflect crystal-crystal phase transitions for both salts. From the T 1 data above 449 K for choline iodide the unexpected occurrence of self-diffusion in this solid is suggested.
A type system for object models

A type system for object models is described that supports subtyping, unions, and overloading of relation names. No special features need be added to the modelling language; in particular, there are no casts, and the meaning of an object model can be understood without mentioning types. A type error is associated with an expression that can be proved to be _irrelevant_, in the sense that it can be replaced by an empty set or relation without affecting the value of its enclosing constraint. Relevance is computed by a simple abstract interpretation.
Stress sensitivity interacts with depression history to predict depressive symptoms among youth: prospective changes following first depression onset.

Predictors of depressive symptoms may differ before and after the first onset of major depression due to stress sensitization. Dependent stressors, or those to which characteristics of individuals contribute, have been shown to predict depressive symptoms in youth. The current study sought to clarify how stressors’ roles may differ before and after the first depressive episode. Adolescents (N = 382, aged 11 to 15 at baseline) were assessed at baseline and every 3 months over the course of 2 years with measures of stressors and depressive symptoms. Semi-structured interviews were conducted every 6 months to assess for clinically significant depressive episodes. Hierarchical linear modeling showed a significant interaction between history of depression and idiographic fluctuations in dependent stressors to predict prospective elevations of symptoms, such that dependent stressors were more predictive of depressive symptoms after onset of disorder. Independent stressors predicted symptoms, but the strength of the association did not vary by depression history. These results suggest a synthesis of dependent stress and stress sensitization processes that might maintain inter-episode depressive symptoms among youth with a history of clinical depression.
Investigation of flexural strength properties of rubber and nanoclay reinforced hybrid syntactic foams

Highly damage tolerant hybrid syntactic foams are developed by using rubber and nanoclay particles to modify the matrix microstructure in syntactic foams. Four different types of glass hollow particles (microballoons) with different densities are used to fabricate the foam samples. In the rubber hybrid foams, 40 and 75 μm size rubber particles are used by 2% by volume quantity. In nanoclay hybrid foams, volume of nanoclay particles is maintained at 2 and 5%. The total volume of all types of particles is maintained at 65% in all types of plain and hybrid syntactic foams. The plain and hybrid syntactic foams are characterized for flexural properties. An increase in flexural strength is observed with the incorporation of rubber particles in syntactic foams. In nanoclay hybrid foams, flexural strength is observed to depend on the nanoclay volume fraction. The strength of microballoons plays an important role in determining the fracture mode of plain and hybrid syntactic foams. Rubber particles are found to increase the energy absorption under the flexural loading conditions.
Matched Digital PUFs for Low Power Security in Implantable Medical Devices

Wireless communication is widely used in Implantable Medical Devices (IMDs) to facilitate data transmission, device programming, and real time monitoring. However, wireless systems are easy targets for attackers to inspect and potentially breach. Thus, security and privacy have become principal design requirements for IMDs. The challenge in secure IMD design stems from the conflicting constraints of the IMD (e.g. Utility, safety, privacy, security, size, and low power). In this paper, we propose a new ultra low power approach for non-invasive and secure communication and operation of IMDs. We exploit the inherent process variations in an FPGA's SRAM cells to create a unique and random input-output mapping, which we then match in an ASIC design, thus, creating two matched digital physical unclonable functions (PUFs). The smaller design is embedded with the IMD while the FPGA remains with the programmer (e.g. Doctor). We present our architecture, introduce accompanying protocols for secure cryptographic communication and trusted remote computation, and provide an analysis of the system's resilience to various security attacks. Our system is the first hardware-based digital security system proposed for IMDs. It is orders of magnitude lower in delay and energy consumption that traditional cryptographic techniques.
Simple exact for well known molecular dynamics algorithms

The common algorithms used in molecular dynamics calculations to numerically solve the equations of motion are evaluated. (AIP) copyright 1987 Academic Press, Inc.
Eventually perfect predicate detection in crash-affected finite average response time systems

Monitoring and predicate detection is a fundamental challenge of evaluating whether or not a predicate has held on the state of a distributed system in an execution. We solve eventually perfect predicate detection in a failure-prone system assuming that only the average response time is finite. The solution is based on an eventually accurate failure detection sequencer ([image omitted] ) which we propose and implement in the finite average response time system. We prove that [image omitted] can solve eventually perfect detection of predicates involving process operational status. This research contributes to identifying realistic detection semantics in a weak partially synchronous model. Our approach has a layered model with which applications have the flexibility to choose appropriate predicate detection algorithms with the possibility to solve different predicate modalities.
Dental Stem Cells and Their Sources

Abstract The search for more accessible mesenchymal stem cells than those found in bone marrow has propelled interest in dental tissues. Human dental stem/progenitor cells (collectively termed dental stem cells [DSCs]) that have been isolated and characterized include dental pulp stem cells, stem cells from exfoliated deciduous teeth, stem cells from apical papilla, periodontal ligament stem cells, and dental follicle progenitor cells. Common characteristics of these cell populations are the capacity for self-renewal and the ability to differentiate into multiple lineages. In vitro and animal studies have shown that DSCs can differentiate into osseous, odontogenic, adipose, endothelial, and neural-like tissues.
A Distributed and Energy Efficient Algorithm for Data Collection in Sensor Networks

In wireless sensor networks, collection of raw sensor data at a base station provides the flexibility to perform offline detailed analysis on the data which may not be possible with innetwork data aggregation. However, lossless data collection consumes considerable amount of energy for communication while sensors usually have limited energy. In this paper, we propose a Distributed and Energy efficient algorithm for Collection of Raw data in sensor networks called DECOR. DECOR exploits spatial correlation to reduce the communication energy in sensor networks with highly correlated data. In our approach, at each neighborhood, one sensor shares its raw data as a reference with the rest of sensors without any suppression or compression. Other sensors use this reference data to compress their observations by representing them in the forms of mutual differences. In a highly correlated network, transmission of reference data consumes significantly more energy than transmission of compressed data. Thus, we first attempt to minimize the number of reference transmissions. Then, we try to minimize the size of mutual differences. We derive analytical lower bounds for both these phases and based on our theoretical results, we propose a twostep distributed data collection algorithm which reduces the communication energy significantly compared to existing methods. In addition, we modify our algorithm for lossy communication channels and we evaluate its performance through simulation.
Degradation dynamics, recovery, and characterization of negative bias temperature instability

This article describes several deficiencies with traditional assessments of negative bias temperature instability (NBTI) in pMOS transistors and proposes methods for handling them. These effects include: (a) a decrease in the rate of degradation over time, (b) a deviation of the stress bias dependence of NBTI lifetime from simple analytical models, (c) partial dynamic recovery of apparent NBTI degradation after interruption of stress, and (d) errors well beyond what might naively be expected in lifetime extrapolation due to uncertainties in measurement and modeling of NBTI. These errors can even be several orders of magnitude. If these effects are not adequately considered in NBTI characterization, assessment, benchmarking, and optimization, they could lead excessive expense in product reliability evaluation or, worse, to unanticipated, costly field reliability problems.
Search for seismic forerunners to earthquakes in central California

Abstract The relatively high seismicity of the San Andreas fault zone in central California provides an excellent opportunity to search for seismic forerunners to moderate earthquakes. Analysis of seismic traveltime and earthquake location data has resulted in the identification of two possible seismic forerunners. The first is a period of apparently late (0.3 sec) P-wave arrival times lasting several weeks preceding one earthquake of magnitude 5.0. The rays for these travel paths passed through — or very close to — the aftershock volume of the subsequent earthquake. The sources for these P-arrival time data were earthquakes in the distance range 20–70 km. Uncertainties in the influence of small changes in the hypocenters of the source earthquakes and in the identification of small P-arrivals raise the possibility that the apparantly delayed arrivals are not the result of a decrease in P-velocity. The second possible precursor is an apparent increase in the average depth of earthquakes preceding two moderate earthquakes. This change might be only apparent, caused by a location bias introduced by a decrease in P-wave velocity, but numerical modeling for realistic possible changes in velocity suggests that the observed effect is more likely a true migration of earthquakes. To carry out this work — involving the manipulation of several thousand earthquake hypocenters and several hundred thousand readings of arrival time — a system of data storage was designed and manipulation programs for a large digital computer have been executed. This system allows, for example, the automatic selection of earthquakes from a specific region, the extraction of all the observed arrival times for these events, and their relocation under a chosen set of assumptions.
Hydrocortisone effects on nucleic acid and nuclear protein content and protein metabolism in aging WI-38 cells.

Abstract Confluent late passage WI-38 human diploid fibroblast cultures grown in the presence or absence of hydrocortisone for fifteen population doublings were measured cyto-chemically for DNA, nuclear RNA, basic nuclear protein and acidic nuclear protein content during a 12-hour interval following a medium-change stimulation. Radioisotope tracer studies were utilized to assess the effects of prolonged hydrocortisone treatment on protein synthesis and degradation in aging confluent and logarithmically growing cultures. Hydrocortisone-treated cultures exhibited an increased Feulgen—DNA stainability, no difference in basic nuclear protein content, a significantly larger initial decrease followed by an increase in acidic nuclear protein content, and elevated levels of nuclear RNA as compared to untreated controls. Hydrocortisone treatment also resulted in increased incorporation of leucine into protein and decreased breakdown of pre-labeled protein in both confluent and logarithmically growing cultures. These results indicate that many of the metabolic changes associated with proliferation are stimulated by prolonged hydrocortisone treatment of late passage WI-38 fibroblast cells.
NASA D3R linear depolarization ratio observations and a new estimation technique

The polarimetric radar parameter, linear depolarization ratio (LDR), provides microphysical insight into a scattering volume, particularly for mixed-phase and ice particles. A new estimator for improved estimation of LDR is presented. The NASA dual-frequency, dual-polarization, Doppler radar (D3R), which was recently upgraded to support operational linear depolarization ratio observations, was used as a testbed for evaluation of the new estimator. With D3R's Ku-band observations, the new LDR estimator is compared to conventional estimators and it is demonstrated that the new estimator is insensitive to attenuation, a number of radar system biases, and has increased immunity to noise for low SNR observations.
Vitamin D: An Examination of Physician and Patient Management of Health and Uncertainty

Vitamin D has been a topic of much research interest and controversy, and evidence is mixed concerning its preventive effects and health benefits. The purpose of our study was to explore the decision-making strategies used by both primary care providers and community members surrounding vitamin D in relation to uncertainty management theory. We conducted semistructured interviews with primary care providers (n = 7) and focus groups with community members (n = 89), and transcribed and coded using the constant comparative method. Themes for providers included awareness, uncertainty, patient role, responsibility, skepticism, uncertainty management, and evolving perceptions. Community member focus group themes included uncertainty, information sources, awareness/knowledge, barriers, and patient-provider relationship. Both providers and community members expressed uncertainty about vitamin D but used conflicting strategies to manage uncertainty. Awareness of this disconnect might facilitate improved patient-provider communication.
The action of acephate in Pseudoplusia includens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and Pristhesancus papuensis (Hemiptera: Reduviidae)

The toxicity, toxodynamics, and toxokinetics of acephate were investigated in the soybean looper, Pseudoplusia includens, and a predatory reduviid, Pristhesancus papuensis. Acephate was nine-fold more toxic to the predator than the phytophagous soybean looper at the LD50. Both acephate and its presumed activation product, methamidophos, were found to be inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AcChE) in vitro. Acetylcholinesterase from P. includens was more susceptible to inhibition by both chemicals than was P. papuensis AcChE. The overall rate of penetration, metabolism, and excretion was more rapid in P. includens than in the predator. The activation of acephate to methamidophos was four times greater in P. papuensis than in P. includens after a 24-h exposure period. No labeled CO2 was detected from P. papuensis, while over 5% of the applied dose was trapped as CO2 from P. includens. The activation and accumulation steps then, are apparently the major reasons for the greater toxicity of acephate to P. papuensis compared to P. includens. RESUME Action de l'acephate sur Pseudoplusia includens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) et Pristhesancus papuensis (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) L'action de l'acephate (orthene) a ete determinee sur une lignee de Pseudoplusia includens et un predateur eventuel, Pristhesancus papuensis. Applique localement, l'acephate a ete tres toxique pour les 2 especes, bien que le predateur ait ete 9 fois plus sensible que la noctuelle a la DL50. Tant l'acephate qu'un compose similaire, le methamidophos, ont inhibe l'acetylcholinesterase (AcChE) in vitro. Le pouvoir inhibiteur du methamidophos etait, cependant, 1000 fois plus puissant que celui de l'acephate sur cette enzyme. L'enzyme de P. includens a ete plus susceptible d'inhibition par ces 2 substances que l'AcChE de P. papuensis. La penetration de la radioactivite a la suite d'un traitement au 14C-acephate a ete rapide chez P. includens, chez lequel au bout de 48 h il y avait eu accumulation interne de 43% de la dose appliquee. La penetration de l'acephate chez P. papuensis a ete moins rapide, n'atteignant que 21% au bout de 48 h. Le taux de CO2 marque degage 24 h apres le traitement a ete determine en utilisant un collecteur de CO2 respiratoire et un piege. Aucun CO2 marque n'a ete decele a partir du predateur, tandis que plus de 5% de la dose appliquee a ete piegee sous forme de CO2 chez la noctuelle. P. papuensis a active in vivo 4 fois la proportion d'acephate applique par rapport au methamidophos que ne l'a fait P. includens; cependant aucun d'eux n'a ete elimine dans les feces. D'autre part, chez P. includens, le methamidophos et l'acephate non metabolise ont ete perdus dans le bocal d'elevage, et seulement la moitie du taux de radioactivite interne etait present au bout de 24 h. Les etapes de l'activation et de l'accumulation ont ete les principales raisons de la plus grande toxicite de l'acephate pour le predateur.
Origins of depression in later life.

Background. Despite the burden of depression in late life, its origins present a paradox to investigators and clinicians alike. Method. We review biological (genetics and heredity factors, neurotransmitter dysfunction, endocrine changes, vascular disorders, and medical co-morbidities), psychological (personality attributes, neuroticism, cognitive distortions, and the lack of emotional control and self-efficacy) and social (stressful life events, bereavement, chronic stress or strain, socio-economic disadvantage and impaired social support) origins of late-life depression based upon an extensive though not exhaustive review of the extant literature. In addition, modifying psychological and social factors are discussed. Results. Older adults appear to be at greater risk for major depression biologically, such as depression resulting from vascular changes, yet the frequency of depression is lower compared to younger adults. Older adults may be protected psychologically due to factors such as socioemotional selectivity and wisdom, compared to younger adults, and perhaps relatively protected from social risks. Conclusions. A biopsychosocial approach to evaluating the origins of late-life depression is heuristically valuable, a continual reminder of the many factors that contribute to the onset and persistence of clinically significant symptoms in late life.
Pregnant women and substance use: fear, stigma, and barriers to care

Substance use during pregnancy and motherhood is both a public health and criminal justice concern. Negative health consequences associated with substance use impact both the mother and the developing fetus, and there are ongoing attempts to criminalize substance use during pregnancy that put pregnant substance-using women at risk of detection, arrest, and punishment. This study explored the experiences of substance-using mothers as they navigated health and criminal justice consequences and accessed needed resources in the community. In-depth life history interviews were conducted with 30 recently-pregnant women who had used alcohol or other drugs during their pregnancies. The three-part interview schedule included questions about past and current substance use, life history, and experiences with criminal justice authorities, child protective services, and health professionals. Women’s stories highlighted their strategies for managing their risk of detection by health or criminal justice authorities, including isolating themselves from others, skipping treatment appointments, or avoiding treatment altogether. Women described multiple barriers to treatment and healthcare, including a lack of suitable treatment options and difficulty finding and enrolling in treatment. The findings suggest that policies that substance-using women find threatening discourage them from seeking comprehensive medical treatment during their pregnancies. The implications of the findings are discussed, particularly the need for further expansion of treatment programs and social services to meet the needs of substance-using women.