cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gas chromatographic determination of triclopyr in fruits and vegetables

This research was comprised of two parts: quantitative analyses, and confirmatory test. In the quantitative analyses, five classes of fruits and vegetables comprising 10 individual commodities were fortified with triclopyr herbicide at 0.4 and 0.8 ppm level. Triclopyr was extracted from the matrices and derivatized separately to 2-chloroethylene ester with 2-chloroethanol-BCl3 and methyl ester with diazomethane. The esters were then quantitated by GC-ECD and GC-NPD. The GC-ECD recoveries for 2-chloroethylene ester were 100.0% and 100.7% at 0.4 ppm and 0.8 ppm fortification levels, respectively, whereas methyl ester recovery was 103.9% at 0.4 ppm fortification level. Similarly, the GC-NPD recoveries for 2-chloroethylene ester were 99.0% and 97.9% at 0.4 ppm and 0.8 ppm fortification levels respectively, whereas methyl ester recovery was 102.0% at 0.4 ppm fortification level. In the confirmatory test, the 2-chloroethylene ester was introduced into a GC-ion trap. The EI mass spectrum was then interpreted based on the criteria of molecular ion, isotopes, base ion, characteristic ions and the nitrogen rule. Compared to existing methods, this method has reduced partition solvents to nearly one-tenth. In addition, this method proved to be simple, fast, safe and accurate.
Hydrogel scaffolds as in vitro models to study fibroblast activation in wound healing and disease

Wound healing results from complex signaling between cells and their environment in response to injury. Fibroblasts residing within the extracellular matrix (ECM) of various connective tissues are critical for matrix synthesis and repair. Upon injury or chronic insult, these cells activate into wound-healing cells, called myofibroblasts, and repair the damaged tissue through enzyme and protein secretion. However, misregulation and persistence of myofibroblasts can lead to uncontrolled accumulation of matrix proteins, tissue stiffening, and ultimately disease. Extracellular cues are important regulators of fibroblast activation and have been implicated in their persistence. Hydrogel-based culture models have emerged as useful tools to examine fibroblast response to ECM cues presented during these complex processes. In this Mini-Review, we will provide an overview of these model systems, which are built upon naturally-derived or synthetic materials, and mimic relevant biophysical and biochemical properties of the native ECM with different levels of control. Additionally, we will discuss the application of these hydrogel-based systems for the examination of fibroblast function and fate, including adhesion, migration, and activation, as well as approaches for mimicking both static and temporal aspects of extracellular environments. Specifically, we will highlight hydrogels that have been used to investigate the effects of matrix rigidity, protein binding, and cytokine signaling on fibroblast activation. Last, we will describe future directions for the design of hydrogels to develop improved synthetic models that mimic the complex extracellular environment.
Hydrophobic Derivatives of TBA Enhance MthK Channel Block

Quaternary ammonium compounds such as tetrabutylammonium (TBA) have been widely used to investigate the physical size and gating mechanisms at the intracellular entrance of cation-selective ion channel pores. Identification of a high-affinity blocker is often desirable for these studies where blocker on and off rates need to be comparable to the kinetics of channel gating. A hydrophobic derivative of TBA, called bbTBA, has been shown to block BK Ca2+- and voltage-gated K+ channels with high affinity and we have found a similar affinity to the prokaryotic homologue MthK (KD ∼ 1 μM). In this study, we are using single channel recordings to systematically explore MthK block by TBA, benzyl-tributylammonium (bTBA), and the high-affinity bbTBA that contains two hydrophobic rings. Addition of each hydrophobic ring to the blocker molecule increases the affinity for MthK by an order of magnitude. We discuss possible mechanisms for this marked enhancement of channel block and implications for the use of these blockers in gating studies.
The influence of age on coronary risk factors: importance of body fat and VLDL metabolism 628

The clinical manifestations of coronary artery disease exhibit strong age dependence. To investigate this phenomenon, we examined for age-related changes in two groups of offspring of parents with early coronary disease (on or before age 60) - 10 subjects aged 15-25 years and 21 subjects aged 35-45 years. Familial hypercholesterolemia was excluded by history. For each subject, body mass index (BMI) was < 85th percentile for age. Fasting lipoproteins were measured after sequential ultracentrifugation. Triglyceride(TG) was measured hourly following a meal of fat. Vitamin A was added to the test meal as a chylomicron marker. Results: The following were significantly decreased in younger compared to older offspring: BMI, waist hip ratio, diastolic BP, fasting glucose, fasting TG (log transformed), VLDL apoprotein B, area under postprandial TG curve (log transformed) (all p<0.001), area under postprandial plasma and chylomicron retinyl palmitate curves (both p<0.01), and area under postprandial chylomicron remnant retinyl palmitate curve, VLDL TG (log transformed), and VLDL cholesterol (all three p<0.05). There were no significant differences in LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and fasting insulin between the two groups. After correcting for BMI and waist hip ratio, there were no significant differences between the two groups except for area under TG curve 1,097 ± 480 vs 2,208 ± 1,054 mg/dl•12 hr (mean ± 1 SD) and VLDL apo B 11.4 ± 3.2 vs 21.0 ± 7.6 mg/dl (both p<0.05). Conclusions: An increase in BMI and central fat deposition explains the increase with age in the above coronary risk factors, except for area under the TG curve and VLDL apo B. Independent changes in body fat and VLDL metabolism may be important in the age dependence of coronary artery disease.
The ocular tapetum lucidum: A model system for interdisciplinary studies in elasmobranch biology

The ocular tapetum lucidum has evolved in the elasmobranchs as a means of controlling photon capture by the retina. Tapeta may be of two kinds, fixed and modifiable. In the latter, light reflection from the tapetum is modulated by the movement of screening pigment. In this paper I review past studies of the mechanisms by which such pigment movements are controlled. Evidence is presented that indicates that control is located within the eye itself and is most probably a function of the retina. I also suggest that a complete understanding of ocular tapetum lucidum structure and function awaits the results of studies by workers in various fields of elasmobranch biology, making this subject ideal for an interdisciplinary approach.
A generic type-and-effect system

Type-and-effect systems are a natural approach for statically reasoning about a program's execution. They have been used to track a variety of computational effects, for example memory manipulation, exceptions, and locking. However, each type-and-effect system is typically implemented as its own monolithic type system that hard-codes a particular syntax of effects along with particular rules to track and control those effects.We present a generic type-and-effect system, which is parameterized by the syntax of effects to track and by two functions that together specify the effect discipline to be statically enforced. We describe how a standard form of type soundness is ensured by requiring these two functions to obey a few natural monotonicity requirements. We demonstrate that several effect systems from the literature can be viewed as instantiations of our generic type system. Finally, we describe the implementation of our type-and-effect system and mechanically checked type soundness proof in the Twelf proof assistant.
Comparison of polysaccharide iron complexes used as iron supplements

An oral hematinic marketed as "water soluble polysaccharide iron complex" (Vitaline Formulas) has been characterized using x-ray powder diffraction and Mossbauer spectroscopy. Another polysaccharide iron complex marketed as Niferex (Central Pharmaceuticals) has been previously studied by us and found to have a core similar to ferrihydrite, but with some long-range order of the mineral akaganeite, beta-FeOOH. The latter is seen in other ferric carbohydrate complexes synthesized by the hydrolysis of FeCl3. This commercial product, however, is very different and has a mixture of iron components including hematite (alpha-Fe2O3) magnetite (Fe3O4), goethite (alpha-FeOOH), iron metal, and a ferrous salt.
Treatment adherence in chronic disease

Research has addressed the problem of poor adherence for the past 4 decades. Much of the research has focused on the prevalence and predictors of adherence, research methodologies, and the development of measures of adherence. To a much lesser extent, attention has been given to intervention studies designed to evaluate strategies to improve adherence to treatment regimens. This article provides an up-to-date review of the literature on medication adherence in chronic disease.
Cellular Mechanisms of Mainstream Cigarette Smoke-Induced Lung Epithelial Tight Junction Permeability Changes In Vitro

Mainstream cigarette smoke increases the permeability of human airways; however, the mechanism for this increased permeability is poorly defined. Tight junctions between adjacent epithelial cells constitute the physiological barrier to fluid and macromolecules in epithelium. These structures are highly regulated by phosphorylation and their association with the cytoskeleton. The goal of these studies was to identify the signal transduction pathways that regulate smoke-induced permeability. Using a physiologically relevant air-liquid interface exposure system, electrically tight monolayers of the human bronchial epithelial cell-line Calu-3 were exposed to fresh, whole mainstream cigarette smoke. This exposure results in a regulated, dose-dependent loss of epithelial barrier function in the lung epithelial monolayers. With cigarette smoke exposure, transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) is decreased and albumin flux is increased, indicating a loss in barrier function to ions and macromolecules, respectively; however, both largely recover in 30 min. Smoke-induced losses of macromolecular barrier function are the result of multicellular junctional reorganization, resulting in increased leak volume rather than leak frequency. Inhibiting Rho kinase (ROCK) significantly reduces the smoke-induced permeability to both ions and macromolecules, while inhibiting protein tyrosine kinases (PTK) only reduces smoke-induced macromolecular permeability. Interestingly, inhibiting myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) exacerbates smoke-induced permeability, indicating that MLCK and ROCK have opposing regulatory roles. Our results demonstrate that the smoke-induced loss of epithelial barrier function in human bronchial epithelium is a regulated process rather than a cytotoxic response. Additionally, our results indicate that activation of PTK and ROCK and inactivation of MLCK contribute to the increased airway permeability caused by mainstream cigarette smoke.
Stress and the etiology of osteoarthritis

Although degenerative joint disease is an old and exceedingly common problem, clinical investigators have not reached a consensus regarding the etiology of this disease. Comparative osteological analysis of the knee, hip, shoulder, and elbow joints of 789 individuals from four human skeletal populations (Black and White Americans, Pueblo Indians, and Alaskan Eskimos) indicates that age of onset, frequency, and location of degenerative changes are directly related to the nature and degree of environmentally associated stress, as reflected by the variable life styles of the populations sampled. Eskimos have the earliest onset and most severe involvement for all four joints studied, the right side is usually more affected than the left, and Blacks are more frequently involved than Whites in the knee, shoulder, and elbow. Functional stress, when constant and severe in nature, becomes the primary focus of degenerative disease, but other background contributing agents such as age, sex, and hormonal influence must not be ignored.
A Survey of Breast Imaging Fellowship Programs: Current Status of Curriculum and Training in the United States and Canada

Purpose The Society of Breast Imaging and the Education Committee of the ACR Breast Commission conducted a survey of breast imaging fellowship programs to determine the status of fellowship curricula, help identify strengths and potential areas for improvement, and assess the current demand for fellowship programs. Methods In 2012, a two-part survey was emailed to breast imaging fellowship directors from 72 fellowship programs. Results Of the 66 respondents, a total of 115 positions were identified. There were 90 positions with 9-12 months of breast imaging, and 25 positions with 6 months focused on breast imaging. Approximately two-thirds of programs reported an increase in the number of fellowship applicants, with three-quarters having 3 or more applicants for each position. All programs offered digital mammography, breast MRI, and diagnostic ultrasound services, and nearly all provided experience with interventional procedures. Approximately one-third provided breast screening ultrasound training. More than two-thirds required at least a 1-day rotation with a breast surgeon. Important nonclinical areas of training were not addressed in many programs. Approximately 40% of programs did not offer training related to the practice audit, and one-third of programs did not provide formal training related to quality control. Conclusions Breast imaging fellowships are currently in higher demand than in the past. Most fellowship programs provide training in the key imaging modalities and interventional procedures. Potential gaps in training for many programs include the practice audit, quality control procedures, breast positioning, and mammography technical factors.
Synthesis of Si3N4 with Emphasis on Si-S-N Chemistry

Industrial production of Si3N4 from SiCI4, is increasing. An element rivaling CI in abundance and cheapness with potentially suitable chemistry for this application is sulfur. Thus, Si–S–N chemistry was investigated to determine its usefulness in producing Si3N4. Bifunctionality in S, as opposed to mono-functionality in CI, may allow special routes via polymers to become important.
A note on bluff body vortex formation

Green & Gerrard (1993) have presented in a recent paper the results of experiments to measure the distribution of vorticity in the near wake of a circular cylinder at low Reynolds numbers (up to Re = 220). They also compared the various definitions of the vortex formation region length which have been proposed by Gerrard (1966), Griffin (1974), and others for both high and low Reynolds numbers. The purpose of this note is to expand the work of Green & Gerrard, and to further their proposition that the end of the vortex formation region at all Reynolds numbers mark both the initial position of the fully shed vortex and the location at which its strength is a maximum. The agreement discussed here between several definitions for the formation region length will allow further understanding to be gained from investigations of the vortex wakes of stationary bluff bodies, and the wakes of oscillating bodies as well.
Effect of dietary mineral and vitamin D content and parathyroidectomy on the plasma disappearance rate of 1,25‐dihydroxy vitamin D3 in rats

The plasma disappearance rate of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25-(OH)2 D3] was determined in rats after a single intravenous injection of the tritiated hormone. Tritiated 1,25-(OH)2D3 (120 Ci mmol−1) was administered to rats at a dose of 400 000 dpm kg−1 body weight and the animals were bled between 0 and 8 hours. The dose was estimated to produce negligible perturbations in endogenous plasma levels of 1,25-(OH)2D3. The plasma disappearance of 3H-1,25-(OH)2D3 occurred in two phases. The second phase plasma half-life of 1,25-(OH)2D3 in immature 25- to 35-day-old animals (4.7 hours) was significantly shorter than the second phase plasma half-life of maturing 49- to 65-day-old animals (8.0 hours). Phosphorus deprivation for 12 days significantly prolonged the second phase plasma half-life of 1,25-(OH)2D3 from a control value of 4.9 hours to 10.4 hours. Parathyroidectomy, regardless of the plasma calcium concentrations, shortened the second phase plasma half-life of 1,25-(OH)2D3 from control values of 9.1 hours to 5.0 hours. Calcium deprivation for 7 days did not alter the second phase plasma half-life of 1,25-(OH)2D3. Vitamin D deprivation for 5 weeks increased the second phase plasma half-life from 11.0 to 19.9 hours but the difference was not significant.
Psychiatric liaison on a neoplastic inpatient service.

Psychiatric liaison on an inpatient neoplastic service provides unique opportunities for medical and nursing staff to gain psychological understanding of patients in general and to improve communication for the welfare of the patient. The natural anxiety generated by facing dying patients can work as a catalyst in bridging the conceptual gap between medicine and psychiatry. The psychiatrist can point out in a group setting that such anxiety is shared by everyone, including the psychiatrist. The anxiety-provoking dilemma to tell or not to tell the “truth” to cancer patients should depend on an accurate understanding of the patients' communications. “Telling the truth” does not always relieve the physician's anxiety; many doctors feel more uncomfortable and more avoidant of the patient afterwards because they are unprepared to deal frankly with the topic of death once it has been exposed.
An On-Demand Test Triggering Mechanism for NoC-Based Safety-Critical Systems

As embedded and safety-critical applications begin to employ many-core SoCs using sophisticated on-chip networks, ensuring system quality and reliability becomes increasingly complex. Infrastructure IP has been proposed to assist system designers in meeting these requirements by providing various services such as testing and error detection, among others. One such service provided by infrastructure IP is concurrent online testing (COLT) of SoCs. COLT allows system components to be tested in-field and during normal operation of the SoC However, COLT must be used judiciously in order to minimize excessive test costs and application intrusion. In this paper, we propose and explore the use of an anomaly-based test triggering unit (ATTU) for on-demand concurrent testing of SoCs. On-demand concurrent testing is a novel solution to satisfy the conflicting design constraints of fault-tolerance and performance. Ultimately, this ensures the necessary level of design quality for safety-critical applications. To validate this approach, we explore the behavior of the ATTU using a NoC-based SoC simulator. The test triggering unit is shown to trigger tests from test infrastructure IP within 1 ms of an error occurring in the system while detecting 81% of errors, on average. Additionally, the ATTU was synthesized to determine area and power overhead.
Direct analytical methods for solving Poisson equations in computer vision problems

Direct analytical methods are discussed for solving Poisson equations of the general form Delta u=f on a rectangular domain. Some embedding techniques that may be useful when boundary conditions (obtained from stereo and occluding boundary) are defined on arbitrary contours are described. The suggested algorithms are computationally efficient owing to the use of fast orthogonal transforms. Applications to shape from shading, lightness and optical flow problems are also discussed. A proof for the existence and convergence of the flow estimates is given. Experiments using synthetic images indicate that results comparable to those using multigrid can be obtained in a very small number of iterations. >
In Situ Spectroscopic Investigation of Molecular Structures of Highly Dispersed Vanadium Oxide on Silica under Various Conditions

The molecularly dispersed V2O5/SiO2 supported oxides were prepared by the incipient wetness impregnation of 2-propanol solutions of V-isopropoxide. The experimental maximum dispersion of surface vanadium oxide species on SiO2 was achieved at ∼12 wt % V2O5 (∼2.6 V atoms/nm2). The surface structures of the molecularly dispersed V2O5/SiO2 samples under various conditions were extensively investigated by in situ Raman, UV−vis−NIR DRS and XANES spectroscopies. The combined characterization techniques revealed that in the dehydrated state only isolated VO4 species are present on the silica surface up to monolayer coverage. Interestingly, the three-member siloxane rings on the silica surface appear to be the most favorable sites for anchoring the isolated, three-legged (SiO)3VO species. Hydration dramatically changes the molecular structure of the surface vanadium oxide species. The specific structure of the hydrated surface vanadium oxide species is dependent on the degree of hydration. The molecular structure ...
Thin and Robust Encapsulation of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles with Dithiocarbamate-anchored Polyelectrolytes

A robust, stable and thin primary amine functionalization is applied to gold and silver nanoparticles from poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) by converting a fraction of the amine groups in the polymer to dithiocarbamate (DTC) ligands, which absorb strongly onto noble metal surfaces. We observe marked improvements in the properties of gold nanospheres with a DTC-anchored rather than physisorbed PAH cap. The same level of improvement is not seen in silver nanoparticles, although it is clear from a distinct change in the plasmon spectrum in silver nanocubes that the DTC ligand does interact with the silver surface. In spite of their amine functionalization, both silver and gold particles show low cytotoxicity, possibly due to absorption of serum proteins forming a protective coating on the positively charged particle surface.
Correlation between strain-based low-cycle fatigue and energy-based linear damage models

Abstract Although the potential for cumulative damage of structures during long duration earthquakes is generally recognized, most design codes do not explicitly takes into account the damage potential of such events. In this paper, a strain‐based low‐cycle fatigue model commonly used for the prediction of fatigue life in metals is adapted for cumulative damage assessment of structures under seismic conditions. By defining the number of load cycles in terms of the total plastic strain energy dissipated by the structure, the model is presented in a form capable of predicting the plastic strain energy capacity of the structure at the ultimate limit state. The plastic strain energy is expected to decrease rapidly with increased displacement in the small displacement range and to decrease gradually in a near linear manner with increased displacement in the large displacement range. The model is shown to calibrate reasonably well with small‐scale aluminum cantilever specimens tested under large‐amplitude rever...
Training for Public Managers: The Alabama Certified Public Manager Program

Of all the human resource functions which occupy personnel specialists' attention, organisations probably spend the most time on training and development. Virtually all employees experience some form of training at some time during their careers. Employee training and development is an attempt to improve current or future employee performance by increasing an employee's attitudes or increasing his/her skills and knowledge. Training can be quite extensive as exemplified by a professional seminar series, or it can be a brief set of instructions given by a supervisor to a new employee. Training programmes may be more likely than any other human resource function to affect employees significantly during their work lives (because of their pervasiveness). Furthermore, training and development can have a direct and lasting effect on individual employees, for the purpose of training is to change the employees themselves.
Application of DFT and FFT algorithms to spectral analysis of power system load variation

The discrete Fourier transform (DFT) and the fast Fourier transform (FFT) are based on certain assumptions that must be understood and satisfied, or misleading results will be obtained. The authors examine these assumptions and qualitatively analyze the effect of these dangers when the FFT algorithm is supplied to power system load variation. They recommend the use of a DFT algorithm to evaluate the frequency spectrum of power system load variation. >
Cell-to-cell pathway dominates xylem-epidermis hydraulic connection in Tradescantia fluminensis (Vell. Conc.) leaves

A steady supply of water is indispensable for leaves to fulfil their photosynthetic function. Understanding water movement in leaves, especially factors that regulate the movement of water flux from xylem to epidermis, requires that the nature of the transport pathway be elucidated. To determine the hydraulic linkage between xylem and epidermis, epidermal cell turgor pressure (P (t)) in leaves of Tradescantia fluminensis was monitored using a cell pressure probe in response to a 0.2 MPa step change in xylem pressure applied at the leaf petiole. Halftime of P (t) changes (T(x)(1/2)) were 10-30 times greater than that of water exchange across an individual cell membrane (T(m)(1/2)) suggesting that cell-to-cell water transport constitutes a significant part of the leaf hydraulic path from xylem to epidermis. Furthermore, perfusion of H(2)O(2) resulted in increases of both T(m)(1/2) and T(x)(1/2) by a factor of 2.5, indicating that aquaporins may play a role in the xylem to epidermis hydraulic link. The halftime for water exchange (T(m)(1/2)) did not differ significantly between cells located at the leaf base (2.5 s), middle (2.6 s) and tip (2.5 s), indicating that epidermal cell hydraulic properties are similar along the length of the leaf. Following the pressure application to the xylem (0.2 MPa), P (t) changed by 0.12, 0.06 and 0.04 MPa for epidermal cells at the base, middle and the tip of the leaf, respectively. This suggests that pressure dissipation between xylem and epidermis is significant, and that the pressure drop along the vein may be due to its structural similarities to a porous pipe, an idea which was further supported by measurements of xylem hydraulic resistance using a perfusion technique.
Dual Mode Scramjet Combustor: Design and Operational Analysis

†‡ Numerical analysis was performed on a Dual-Mode Scramjet isolator-combustor with emphasis on the combustor. The investigation was performed to analyze overall performance and observe isolator-combustor interaction. In this investigation four studies were analyzed. It was shown by removing a flame holding cavity at the second stage of a two stage combustor, yielded negligible performance loss with a decrease in combustor complexity. A comparison study outlined marginal differences in the analysis between models performed in 2D as opposed to 3D. Another study revealed minimal performance loss by reducing the flight Mach number from Mach 3.0 to Mach 2.5 without unstarting the isolator. The final study revealed a decrease in stream thrust by introducing a less reactive fuel such as methane into an ethylene fuel mixture.
Dependence of two-photon excitation on the relative polarization of intersecting pump beams in a dye solution

Summary form only given. In our current studies of appropriate dye solutions for 3D displays we employ two pump beams derived from two optical parametric oscillators pumped by a single 10 Hz, Q-switched Nd:YAG laser to insure temporal synchronization of the pulses in the medium under test. To determine the geometrical configuration that would lead to the strongest visible emission from 2-photon excitation, the role of the relative polarization of the two pump beams was investigated. Using two linearly polarized pump beams, we varied their relative direction of polarization over the range 0 to 360 degrees. In the non-degenerate case, we observed a strong dependence of the visible emission intensity excited by two-photon absorption (2PA). The strongest signal is obtained when the beams are polarized parallel to one another, and the weakest when the beams have orthogonal polarization. A ratio of 3 between strong and weak visible emission intensity was measured in coumarin 7 and in rhodamine B. We present a semi-classical model that explains the observations, including the absorption strength ratio and the cos/sup 2/ dependence on the relative polarization angle and show that it is related to the Kerr effect describing the effect of an applied DC field on the polarizability of a molecule solution.
A novel aluminum-filled composite dielectric for embedded passive applications

This paper presents the development of a novel aluminum-filled high dielectric constant composite for embedded passive applications. Aluminum is well known as a low-cost and fast self-passivation metal. The self-passivation forms a nanoscale insulating boundary outside of the metallic spheres, which has dramatic effects on the electrical, mechanical, and chemical behaviors of the resulting composites. Influences of aluminum particle size and filler loading on the dielectric properties of composites were studied. Because of the self-passivated insulating oxide layer of fine aluminum spheres, a high loading level of aluminum can be used while the composite materials continues to be insulating. Dielectric property measurement demonstrated that, for composites containing 80 wt% 3.0 /spl mu/m aluminum, a dielectric constant of 109 and a low dissipation factor of about 0.02 can be achieved. The dielectric constant of epoxy-aluminum composites increased almost 30 times as compared with that of the pure epoxy matrix, which is about 3.5. Die shear tests showed that at such loading level, materials still had good processability and good adhesion toward the substrate. Bulk resistivity measurement, high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) observation, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were conducted to characterize the aluminum powders in order to understand the dielectric behavior of aluminum-filled composites. Bimodal aluminum-filled composites were also systematically studied in order to further increase the dielectric constant. Ouchiyama-Tanaka's model was used to calculate the theoretical maximum packing fraction (MPF) of bimodal systems. Based on the calculation, rheology studies were performed to find the optimum bimodal filler volume fraction ratio that led to the best packing efficiency of bimodal fillers. It was found that the viscosity of polymer composites showed a minimum at optimum bimodal filler volume fraction ratio. A high dielectric constant of 160 (@10 kHz) with a low dissipation factor of less than 0.025 was achieved with the optimized bimodal aluminum composites. The developed aluminum composite is a promising candidate material for embedded capacitor applications.
Wardrop Routing in Wireless Networks

Routing protocols for multihop wireless networks have traditionally used shortest path routing to obtain paths to destinations and do not consider traffic load or delay as an explicit factor in the choice of routes. We focus on static mesh networks and formally establish that if the number of sources is not too large, then it is possible to construct a perfect flow-avoiding routing, which can boost the throughput provided to each user over that of the shortest path routing by a factor of four when carrier sensing can be disabled or a factor of 3.2 otherwise. So motivated, we address the issue of designing a multipath, load adaptive routing protocol that is generally applicable even when there are more sources. We develop a protocol that adaptively equalizes the mean delay along all utilized routes from a source to destination and does not utilize any routes that have greater mean delay. This is the property satisfied by a system in Wardrop equilibrium. We also address the architectural challenges confronted in the software implementation of a multipath, delay-feedback-based, probabilistic routing algorithm. Our routing protocol is 1) completely distributed, 2) automatically load balances flows, 3) uses multiple paths whenever beneficial, 4) guarantees loop-free paths at every time instant even while the algorithm is suntil converging, and 5) amenable to clean implementation. An ns-2 simulation study indicates that the protocol is able to automatically route flows to "avoid" each other, consistently out-performing shortest path protocols in a variety of scenarios. The protocol has been implemented in user space with a small amount of forwarding mechanism in a modified Linux 2.4.20 kernel. Finally, we discuss a proof-of-concept measurement study of the implementation on a six node testbed.
Novel methods to analyze and fabricate electrically small antennas

A circuit model is introduced for electrically small antennas (ESAs) based on their frequency-dependent polarizabilities. This circuit model can be used to analyze the frequency response, radiation quality factor (Q), and radiation efficiency (η eff ) of ESAs. In addition, a new method of printing antennas onto arbitrarily contoured substrates is introduced. This fabrication method has the potential to greatly improve the accuracy and ease with which ESAs are fabricated. A spherical helix ESA is analyzed and fabricated.
Observation of an Anisotropic Wigner Crystal.

We report a new correlated phase of two-dimensional charged carriers in high magnetic fields, manifested by an anisotropic insulating behavior at low temperatures. It appears in a large range of low Landau level fillings $1/3\ensuremath{\lesssim}\ensuremath{\nu}\ensuremath{\lesssim}2/3$ in hole systems confined to wide GaAs quantum wells when the sample is tilted in magnetic field to an intermediate angle. The parallel field component (${B}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}$) leads to a crossing of the lowest two Landau levels, and an elongated hole wave function in the direction of ${B}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}$. Under these conditions, the in-plane resistance exhibits an insulating behavior, with the resistance along ${B}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}$ about 10 times smaller than the resistance perpendicular to ${B}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}$. We interpret this anisotropic insulating phase as a two-component, striped Wigner crystal.
Variation in Interlaminar Tension and Shear Strengths due to Carbon Nanotube Reinforcement in VARTM Manufactured, Polymer-Matrix, Laminated Composites

Laminated composite materials are commonly used in the aerospace, defense, automotive and sports industries largely due to their high in-plane specific stiffness and strength characteristics. However, their out-of-plane properties are at least two orders of magnitude lower than their in-plane counterparts. In an attempt to increase these out-of-plane properties, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were introduced into the interlaminar regions as a means of reinforcement. Past literature has focused mainly on the use of CNTs as in interlaminar shear reinforcement whereas the research presented in this paper examines the effects of CNT reinforcement in both interlaminar tension and interlaminar shear loading, as well as the effects these CNTs have on the in-plane material properties. All parts were fabricated using the vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) technique. VARTM methods were used to show the applicability of the CNT reinforcement to a wide variety of low-cost, out-of-autoclave applications. Two techniques were developed for dispersing the nanotubes within the interlaminar and intralaminar regions of the composites; metered spray deposition technique, to be used for parts which require a high degree of uniformity in the dispersion of the CNTs over a large area and, CNT doped epoxy infusion in which CNTs are sonicated into the epoxy prior infusion. The doped epoxy infusion method has shown a filtering of the CNTs within the fibers, leading to a gradient in the material properties. Exploiting this filtering phenomenon may allow for targeted, local CNT reinforcement in critical areas of the structure only, leading to more cost effective implementation of CNT reinforcement. The CNT reinforcement of the composites’ matrix was found to increase interlaminar tension and shear strength as much as 17% while maintaining, and in some cases enhancing, the in-plane material properties.
Control of Internal Stress for High Quality Nickel Large Area Mold Inserts

Metallic large area mold inserts (LAMIs) are essential for the replication of polymer microfluidic devices. Successful molding of micro- or nanoscale features over large areas is dependent on improving the dimensional control of the mold inserts, particularly those fabricated by electrodeposition using the LIGA or UV-LIGA processes. A systematic approach to controlling the internal stress of the nickel deposits, which was essential for predicting the final flatness of the LAMIs prior to electroplating, was carried out. The internal stress of the nickel deposits from a nickel sulfamate solution was estimated using a bent strip stress measurement method after maintaining electroplating chemicals and conditions and reducing contamination. Over-electroplating of the nickel LAMIs was performed on SU-8 electroplating molds on 150 mm diameter Si wafers. Detailed characterization of the nickel LAMIs to determine the relationship between the overall flatness of the LAMIs and the internal stress identified a suitable process window in terms of the current densities (10–20 mA/cm2 ) and the internal stress (−8.3 ∼ −3.0 MPa) for the high quality nickel LAMIs with an overall flatness of 100 μm.© 2009 ASME
Facing Death: A Companion in Words and Images, by Linda Watson

Appropriately chosen poetry and prose from Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, St. Paul, Native American writers, Mohammed, and others punctuate the beautiful nature photography of this straightforward yet prof...
Yellow fever vaccine. I. Development of a vaccine seed free from contaminating avian leukosis viruses.

SummaryAn avian leukosis virus (ALV) free primary yellow fever vaccine seed has been developed by ridding the 17D virus vaccine seed of its ALV contaminant. By differential filtration through Millipore membrane filters of different pore sizes, yellow fever virus was separated from its contaminant by physical means. The ALV could not be detected in the new primary and secondary vaccine seeds by RIF, COFAL, and FAB tests.
Genetic Influences on Measures of Parental Negativity and Childhood Maltreatment: An Exploratory Study Testing for Gene × Environment Correlations

Behavioral genetics research has revealed that approximately 25% of the variance in measures of the family environment, including parenting, is attributable to genetic factors. However, precisely which candidate genes are associated with the family environment is largely unknown. The current study addresses this gap in the literature by analyzing data drawn from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Results provide some evidence that three genes of the dopaminergic system (Dopamine D2 receptor gene (DRD2), Dopamine D4 receptor gene (DRD4), and Dopamine transporter gene (DAT1)) are associated with variation in measures of maternal negativity, paternal negativity, and childhood maltreatment for Caucasian males. We speak to what these findings mean for criminological theory and research that focuses on family socialization as an important factor in the etiology of crime and related antisocial behaviors.
Billund builds music: An engineering education initiative in Danish Kindergartens

In a recent educational initiative in Billund, Denmark, almost every student between the ages of three to eighteen years participated in Billund Builds Music, a one-week municipality-wide project to explore music and engineering by designing and creating musical instruments. This endeavor was a collaboration between the Tufts University Center for Engineering Education and Outreach (CEEO), the LEGO Foundation, and Billund's Capital of Children, and LEGO Foundation partner which represents children's voices in civic projects. Approximately 4,000 students and 300 educators from 10 schools across Billund took part in the project. This paper presents preliminary trends and findings from two participating Kindergartens. Results show that in this open-ended Danish Kindergarten setting, 3–5 year-old children were able to build musical instruments and play at least one unique sound on them.
Analysis on Epidemiological Characteristics of Measles from 2004 to 2008 in Anhui Province

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of measles from 2004 to 2008 in Anhui province and provide evidence for developing measures of measles elimination.Methods Data of measles were analyzed by descriptive epidemiological method.Results The annual incidence of measles was 5.59/lakh from 2004 to 2008.Lower age group was the main target of Measles,The proportions of measles cases aged below 1 year increased year by year,3～6 months were the peak ages.According to the analysis of vaccine immunization history of measles cases in 2008,27.96% had measles vaccine immunization history,45.35% were not immunized,and 26.69% had unknown inoculation history.Conclusion Completing the vaccination rates of 2 MV doses and the timely one of the first dose,enhancing the measles surveillance,preventing the in-hospital infection,controlling the onset of measles in higher age group,conducting supplementary immunization and subsequent intensified immunization were all the keys to control and eliminate measles.
Investigation Results of Poor Eyesight among Primary and Middle School Students in Tianzhu Tibetan Autonomous County from 2008 to 2009

[Objective]To understand the status of poor eyesight among primary and middle school students in Tianzhu Tibetan autonomous county from 2008 to 2009,make the intervention measures,and provide a scientific basis for implementation of vision care. [Methods]According to the National Student Health Survey Research Handbook,the eyesight test was performed in students aged 7~16 years old(grade 1~9). [Results]The abnormal rate of eyesight increased with increasing school years.The incidence rate of poor eyesight in middle school students(28.66%) was significantly higher than that in primary students(9.21%).In primary students,the poor eyesight was mainly slight,and in middle school students were mainly moderate or severe. [Conclusion]The status of poor eyesight among primary and middle school students in Tianzhu Tibetan autonomous county is serious.In order to prevent the poor eyesight,it is important to relieve students' burdens,improve the learning environment and increase physical activity.The special intervention measures should be carried out in families,schools,hospitals and the whole community,so as to reduce abnormal rate of eyesight among primary and middle school students.
The current management of thyroid tumors in childhood

Thyroid cancer is a rare but intriguing malignancy when it occurs in childhood and adolescence. Although it often presents at a more advanced stage than similar adult thyroid tumors, the biologic behavior is more benign, accounting for improved survival. Therefore, pediatricians and surgeons have debated the wisdom of aggressive versus conservative surgical approaches. Although the final answers have not been achieved it has become increasingly clear that radical surgical approaches may be unnecessary. Further investigation of the tumor cell biology, genetics, and molecular biology of thyroid tumors may allow prospective classification of children so that the best operative and adjuvant management can be selected for each individual.
Simultaneous Measurements of Ultrasonic Phase Velocity and Attenuation in Solids

Several techniques have been proposed for the ultrasonic characterization of metals, ceramics and composite materials. For highly attenuative materials, e. g., fiber-reinforced composites, either the sound phase velocity, or the attenuation can usually be determined. In this paper, we extend the correlation method for simultaneous measurement of phase velocity and attenuation in liquids, first proposed by Sedlacek and Asenbaum1, to the case of highly attenuative solids. By using specially designed specimens in the shape of wedges, the path of propagation can be continuously varied. Cross-correlations of pressure amplitude and phase between different points in the field of continuous ultrasonic plane waves allow measurement of attenuation and phase velocity. Experiments performed on several specimens of various polymers confirm the efficiency and reliability of the technique. Corrections due to refraction and other effects are also discussed and evaluated.
Oxygen storage and redox properties of Nb-doped ZrO2-CeO2-Y2O3 solid solutions for three-way automobile exhaust catalytic converters

Abstract It is shown that Nb-doped ZrO 2 -CeO 2 -Y 2 O 3 solid solution (Nb-ZrCeYO) samples have enhanced oxygen storage (OS) capacity compared with Nb-free solid solutions. However, after several days of exposure to ambient air, the OS behavior of the Nb-doped samples shows significant degradation. This degradation is slowed for samples stored in evacuated glass tubes. It is argued that Nb segregation or increase in the extent of this segregation to the surface upon extended exposure to ambient oxygen is the cause of the degradation. After impregnation with Pt, the enhancement of the OS capacity of Nb-doped oxygen storage component (OSC) relative to the Nb-free OSC is restored. The electrons supplied by metallic Pt mimic reducing conditions, which are known to result in migration of Nb away from the surface and re-dispersion into the bulk solid solution. Nb-doped samples impregnated with Pt show stable, time-independent OS performance.
Effects of Equivalent Sympathetic Activation during Hypoglycemia on Endothelial Function and Pro-Atherothrombotic Balance in Healthy Individuals and Obese Standard Treated Type 2 Diabetes

Objective Recent studies in type 2 diabetes have reported an association between hypoglycemia and severe cardiovascular adverse events, which are relatively increased in standard versus intensively treated individuals. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of equivalent sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity during moderate hypoglycemia on in-vivo endothelial function, pro-inflammatory, pro-atherothrombotic, and pro-coagulant responses in healthy and standard treated type 2 diabetes individuals.
More than solutions: Empowering students to think strategically and tactically

Courses: Communication Activism; Public Advocacy; Social Movements; Public Speaking; Persuasion; Argumentation; Public Sphere.Objectives: This semester-long activity helps students implement a solutions–strategies–tactics framework into their advocacy work. More specifically, students learn to (1) designate, research, and assess the causes of significant social/political problems; (2) design long-term strategies and chronologically arrange step-by-step tactics to address those problems; (3) devise different kinds of messages for purposes of influencing public opinion/behavior, mobilizing collective action, organizing communities into political constituencies, and swaying decision makers; and (4) develop skills and competencies for becoming agents—rather than observers—of social change.
Integrated STEM defined: Contexts, challenges, and the future

We are in the process of transition from the digital revolution, or the information age, to the age of synthesis (Cai, 2011; Hall, 1995). We argue that teaching and learning in the age of synthesis...