cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pre-Amyloid States of Islet Amyloid Polypeptide Examined by Single-Particle Fluorescence

Islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP or amylin) is a peptide hormone cosecreted with insulin by the pancreas that displays potent amyloidogenic activity. In vitro studies demonstrate that IAPP is capable of disrupting lipid bilayers, suggesting a possible mechanism for IAPP-induced beta-cell death in Type II Diabetes Mellitus. Of particular interest are oligomeric IAPP species, which are believed to mediate membrane leakage, as well as to be intermediates in amyloid formation. IAPP oligomers are likely to be transient and heterogeneous, and so a detailed dynamic and functional characterization of these critical structures has been challenging. We have used single-molecule Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) to study IAPP conformations in solution; bound to model membranes; and in the presence of insulin, which exerts a cytoprotective effect. Intermolecular FRET was used to characterize the topology, packing and dimensions of IAPP oligomers. FRET measurements provided experimental constraints for atomistic modeling and MD simulations both of IAPP monomers and oligomers. Simultaneously, we have used fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) to explore the interactions of IAPP with lipid bilayers, probing the thermodynamic landscape of membrane-catalyzed IAPP oligomer assembly. Single-molecule techniques provide unique experimental insight into the processes governing the membrane binding and aggregation of IAPP and similar amyloidogenic peptides.
Virtual sculpting with surface smoothing based on level set method

This paper presents a surface smoothing technique based on the level set method. The triple-dexel data used to represent the generated model in virtual sculpting is converted into distance field data by identifying spatial grid points close to the model's boundary surface and calculating their Euclidean distance values. The surface is smoothed by solving the level set differential equation with mean curvature flow using a fast and robust numerical scheme. Examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the surface smoothing operation for virtual sculpting.
An edgebreaker-based efficient compression scheme for regular meshes

Abstract One of the most natural measures of regularity of a triangular mesh homeomorphic to the two-dimensional sphere is the fraction of its vertices having degree 6. We construct a linear-time connectivity compression scheme build upon Edgebreaker which explicitly takes advantage of regularity and prove rigorously that, for sufficiently large and regular meshes, it produces encodings not longer than 0.811 bits per triangle: 50% below the information-theoretic lower bound for the class of all meshes. Our method uses predictive techniques enabled by the Spirale Reversi decoding algorithm.
A Naïve Bayes classifier for differential diagnosis of Long QT Syndrome in children

This study examined disease models most indicative of risk of Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) in children. Data mined from electronic health records of children confirmed with (n=248) and without (n=101) a diagnosis of LQTS were used to develop a patient profile for LQTS. The profile consisted of 44 distinct features, 17 of which were enriched in LQTS patients. Notably, 66.9% of subjects with a diagnosis of LQTS fell into a category of “low” (22.6%) or “intermediate” (44.3%) risk using a current LQTS risk assessment standard. We developed and trained a machine learning process for LQTS classification by applying a Naive Bayes model to our LQTS cohort. The model classified patients with a sensitivity of 91.1% and a specificity of 73.3%. These results suggest that data mining of clinical data in conjunction with a Bayesian modeling approach can lead to a diagnostic system for prediction of LQTS in children.
Structural basis for bitter taste receptor activation and its potential role in targeting diabetes

Background: Taste receptors are G protein-coupled receptors that, besides being present in the taste buds, have also been shown to be present in the gastrointestinal (GI) system, respiratory system, and brain. However, their function at these locations is not well understood. Objective: To understand the nutrient mediated release of gut peptides like GLP-1 from enteroendocrine L-cells of the GI system, we focused on a bitter taste receptor TAS2R38 (based on animal models) to investigate the structural basis of its potential role in releasing gut peptides. Methods: The atomic-level structure of bitter taste receptor TAS2R38 was predicted using GEnSeMBLE, a first-principle based GPCR structure prediction method. These structures were obtained for the dominant taster haplotype (PAV), as well as for the nontaster haplotype (AVI) of the receptor. The known ligands phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) and 6-n-propylthiouracil (PTU) were docked to these structures to provide a structural basis for the taster and nontaster haplotypes. Results: Docking of known ligands PTU and PTC to taster and nontaster haplotypes of the bitter taste receptor showed a backbone hydrogen bond to residue 262 in taster, but not in nontaster haplotype, which suggests that there is a potential mode of action of these molecules in the activation of the bitter taste receptor.
Evaluation on Shenzhen primary and secondary school students injury surveillance system

Background Students' injury surveillance is important in injury prevention and control. Therefore, we developed the primary and secondary school students injury surveillance system (PSSSISS) and evaluated it in primary and secondary schools of Shenzhen. Aims Aims of this study were to assess PSSSISS in Shenzhen, find out the problems existed in this system, provide feedback to guide injury prevention and intervention, and thus to reduce the injury rate among students. Methods A total of 22 schools (11 primary schools, seven junior high schools and four senior high schools) were included into the surveillance during the period 2006-2010. Quality and quantity methods were used to assess PMSSISS. Additionally, Updated Guidelines for Evaluating Public Health Surveillance Systems was also used as a reference. Results Results from PSSSISS showed that injury cumulative incidence in each academic year was between 0.80% and 1.16% from 2006 to 2010 among Shenzhen students. Injury rate of boys was higher than the rate of girls, and 37.52% of injuries occurred in sports. Furthermore, the leading cause of injuries was falls/trips (61.53%) and bone fracture was the leading result caused by injuries (30.91%). Using quality and quantity methods we found that PSSSISS was good in the following aspects: simplicity, flexibility, data quality, acceptability, stability and representativeness. However, sensitivity and timeliness of PSSSISS needed to be improved. Significance Although PSSSISS has some flaws needed to be improved, it is a feasible and effective injury surveillance system for primary and secondary school students' injury surveillance. This is an abstract of a presentation at Safety 2012, the 11th World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion, 1-4 October 2012, Michael Fowler Center, Wellington, New Zealand. Full text does not seem to be available for this abstract.
Nonlinear Dynamics of Limiting Current in the Flow‐Modulated Uniform‐Injection Cell

We report on the dynamic response of limiting current when the uniform injection cell is subjected to large amplitude sinusoidal modulation of the electrolyte injection velocity. A general formalism for analyzing the linear and nonlinear system dynamics is used as the cornerstone of the theoretical and experimental work. Experimental measurements of the mean, linear, and lowest order nonlinear contributions to the modulated limiting current are found to agree reasonably well with theoretical predictions over the limited dynamic range achievable by the experimental apparatus. Theoretical results show that complicated nonlinear behavior arises from interactions between oscillating harmonics in the flow and concentration fields. For example, certain combinations of oscillation frequency, Reynolds number, and Schmidt number can create conditions where nonlinear harmonic interactions generate resonant or nullified response in specific nonlinear contributions to the limiting current.
Nonlinear excitation and governor control using variable structures

Abstract Modern microprocessor capabilities permit the control designer to consider using relatively complicated nonlinear control algorithms, which would have been considered impractical in the past. This paper presents the results of a study of the variable structure control technique for the design of excitation and governor controllers for a power system. Control laws for rotor angle and field flux are derived. The closed loop system is shown to be asymptotically stable. The system can be transferred to a new operating condition corresponding to any desired terminal voltage Vt, and tie-line power Ptie.
Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita: A heterogeneous disease

The question of whether epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA) is a distinct entity prompted a review of the Mayo Clinic experience. Twelve patients with this diagnosis were seen from 1955 through 1979, and their records were reviewed. Particular attention was directed to immunofluorescence microscopy (IF), which had been performed in seven patients. Direct IF was positive in seven patients, and indirect IF was positive in four patients. Although many cases of EBA may remain distinct, we believe that the morphologic appearance known as EBA may represent a final common pathway of disease expression in a heterogeneous group of patients with a variety of more specific diseases and that trauma serves as a localizing factor. Our findings indicate that cicatricial pemphigoid probably is the most common specific diagnosis but that all cases of EBA are not represented by this diagnosis. Furthermore, we conclude that when IF is performed, exclusion of other bullous diseases, which is a key criterion for the diagnosis of EBA, is more difficult than previously recognized.
Cohort, Period, and Aging Effects A Qualitative Study of Older Women’s Reasons for Remaining in Abusive Relationships

To understand women’s reasons for continuing long-term abusive relationships, inter-views were conducted with 36 women who were over the age of 55. These women matured during times of sweeping social changes with the feminist, battered women’s, and elder abuse movements. Reasons for remaining were organized into three categories: cohort, period, and aging effects. Cohort effects included reasons similar to those of younger women such as lacking education or job skills. Period effects related to efforts to seek help early in the abusive relationship and receiving little assistance from society’s social institutions. Finally, aging effects dealt with how the health challenges of physical age limited options.
Possibility of Spinodal Decomposition in ZrO2‐Y2O3 Alloys: A Theoretical Investigation

The thermodynamics and kinetics of cubic → tetragonal phase transformations in ZrO2-Y2O3 alloys were investigated by using thermodynamic stability analysis and kinetic computer simulations to explore the possibility of a spinodal mechanism during decomposition. Based on a simple free energy model, it is shown that, depending on the alloy composition, a cubic phase aged within the t + c two-phase field may result in three different sequences of phase transformations: (1) direct nucleation and growth of the equilibrium t-phase from the c-phase matrix; (2) formation of a metastable t′-phase followed by nucleation and growth of the equilibrium c- and t-phases; and (3) formation of a transient t′-phase followed by its spinodal decomposition into two tetragonal phases with one of the tetragonal phases eventually transforming to the equilibrium c-phase. The temporal microstructure evolutions for different compositions were studied by using computer simulations based on the time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau (TDGL) model which incorporates the long-range elastic interactions.
Elevated tricuspid regurgitation velocity and decline in exercise capacity over 22 months of follow up in children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia.

Background While in adults with sickle cell disease an elevation of tricuspid regurgitation velocity is associated with increased mortality, the importance of this finding in children has not been established. The role of intravascular hemolysis in the development of this complication is controversial. Design and Methods We conducted a prospective, longitudinal, multi-center study of 160 individuals aged 3–20 years with hemoglobin SS, performing baseline and follow-up determinations of clinical markers, six-minute walk distance less than tricuspid regurgitation velocity and E/Etdi ratio by echocardiography. Results At baseline, 14.1% had tricuspid regurgitation velocity of 2.60 m/sec or over, which suggests elevated systolic pulmonary artery pressure, and 7.7% had increased E/Etdi, which suggests elevated left ventricular filling pressure. Over a median of 22 months, baseline elevation in tricuspid regurgitation velocity was associated with an estimated 4.4-fold increase in the odds of a 10% or more decline in age-standardized six-minute-walk distance ( P =0.015). During this interval, baseline values above the median for a hemolytic component derived from four markers of hemolysis were associated with a 9.0-fold increase in the odds of the new onset of elevated tricuspid regurgitation velocity ( P =0.008) and baseline E/Etdi elevation was associated with an estimated 6.1-fold increase in the odds ( P =0.039). In pathway analysis, higher baseline hemolytic component and E/Etdi predicted elevated tricuspid regurgitation velocity at both baseline and follow up, and these elevations in turn predicted decline in six-minute-walk distance. Conclusions Further studies should define the long-term risks of elevated tricuspid regurgitation velocity in childhood and identify potential interventions to prevent increased pulmonary artery pressure and preserve function.
A comparison of finite-difference and fourier method calculations of synthetic seismograms

The Fourier method, the second-order finite-difference method, and a fourth-order implicit finite-difference method have been tested using analytical phase and group velocity calculations, homogeneous velocity model calculations for disperson analysis, two-dimensional layered-interface calculations, comparisons with the Cagniard-de Hoop method, and calculations for a laterally heterogeneous model. Group velocity rather than phase velocity dispersion calculations are shown to be a more useful aid in predicting the frequency-dependent travel-time errors resulting from grid dispersion, and in establishing criteria for estimating equivalent accuracy between discrete grid methods. Comparison of the Fourier method with the Cagniard-de Hoop method showed that the Fourier method produced accurate seismic traces for a planar interface model even when a relatively coarse grid calculation was used. Computations using an IBM 3083 showed that Fourier method calculations using fourth-order time derivatives can be performed using as little as one-fourth the CPU time of an equivalent second-order finite-difference calculation. The Fourier method required a factor of 20 less computer storage than the equivalent second-order finite-difference calculation. The fourth-order finite-difference method required two-thirds the CPU time and a factor of 4 less computer storage than the second-order calculation. For comparison purposes, equivalent runs were determined by allowing a group velocity error tolerance of 2.5 per cent numerical dispersion for the maximum seismic frequency in each calculation. The Fourier method was also applied to a laterally heterogeneous model consisting of random velocity variations in the lower half-space. Seismograms for the random velocity model resulted in anticipated variations in amplitude with distance, particularly for refracted phases.
Elastic moduli of covalently functionalized single layer graphene sheets

Due to their flexibility, large surface area and high specific mechanical properties, single layer graphene sheets (SLGSs) are potential candidates as filler materials for improving mechanical properties of polymers. Their effective utilization as reinforcements requires strong interfacial binding with the matrix surrounding them. The covalent functionalization of SLGSs is an effective technique to enhance this binding. However, covalent bonds introduced by a functional group usually alter the pristine structure of the SLGS that may affect its mechanical properties. Thus it is important to delineate effects of covalent functionalization on elastic moduli of an SLGS. We consider five groups of different polarities, namely, hydrogen (AH), hydroxyl (AOH), carboxyl (ACOOH), amine (ANH2), and fluorine (AF) as model functional groups and investigate their effects on values of Young’s modulus and the shear modulus of the SLGS. We use molecular mechanics (MM) simulations with the MM3 potential and the software TINKER to conduct the study. The pristine and the functionalized SLGSs are deformed in simple tension and simple shear, and from curves of the strain energy density of deformation vs. the axial strain and the shear strain, values of Young’s modulus and the shear modulus, respectively, are derived. These values are based on the hypothesis that the response of an SLGS is the same as that of an energetically and geometrically equivalent continuum structure of wall thickness 3.4 A. It is found that functionalization reduces the elastic moduli of the SLGSs which could be due to nearly 120% local strains induced at the functionalized sites of relaxed but unloaded SLGS, and the change in hybridization from sp 2 to sp 3 . The decrease in the value of the modulus increases with an increase in the amount of functionalization but is essentially independent of the functionalizing agent. For 10% functionalization, Young’s modulus and the shear modulus of the SLGS are found to decrease by about 73% and 42%, respectively. However, the moduli of a fully functionalized SLGS are about the same as those of a 4% functionalized sheet. Even though the moduli of the pristine armchair and zigzag SLGSs are the same, the moduli of functionalized armchair SLGSs are about 20% less than those of the corresponding zigzag SLGSs. The work will help material scientists interested in designing graphene sheet reinforced polymeric composites.
Metagenomic potential of microbial assemblages in the surface waters of the central Pacific Ocean tracks variability in oceanic habitat

Oceanic habitats may select for different organisms, thereby tuning genomic capabilities to local environmental conditions. To understand the relationship between microbial assemblage composition, functional capability, and habitat, a random genome shotgun sequencing (metagenomic) survey was conducted with surface-water microbial assemblages (0.2–5-mm size fraction) collected at seven locations along a meridional transect from the northern edge of the South Pacific subtropical gyre to the southern edge of the North Pacific subtropical gyre (16uS– 13.5uN). A total of 1.1 million unique sequence reads were obtained, of which ,45% could be annotated to metabolic category. Microbial assemblages in equatorial divergence and countercurrent habitats were distinct phylogenetically from those in gyre waters. Ecotypes of dominant Cyanobacteria (Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus) had distinct distributions congruent with their physiological characteristics in cultivation. The metagenomic distribution of genes among metabolic pathways was very similar at all stations despite phylogenetic differences, but was unrelated to physicochemical habitat, suggesting that dominant microorganisms have a core suite of genes necessary for life in the open ocean. Among metabolic genes that varied across the transect, several patterns were observed. For example, phosphate (PO 3{ 4 ) stress response genes were more common in gyre waters than at the equator. The variability in frequency of several metabolic pathways (e.g., chlorophyll biosynthesis, PO 3{ 4 metabolism, and transcription initiation bacterial sigma factors) was related to physicochemical conditions, most of which were related to taxonomic differences among habitats. Microbial communities in the central Pacific Ocean are phylogenetically distinct to the oceanic provinces which they inhabit.
Pan-STARRS: a wide-field optical survey telescope array

The Institute for Astronomy at the University of Hawaii is developing a large optical synoptic survey telescope system; the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System. Pan-STARRS will consist of an array of four 1.8m telescopes with very large (7 square degree) field of view, giving it an etendue larger than all existing survey instruments combined. Each telescope will be equipped with a 1 billion pixel CCD camera with low noise and rapid read-out, and the data will be reduced in near real time to produce both cumulative static sky and difference images, from which transient, moving and variable objects can be detected. Pan-STARRS will be able to survey up to ≈6,000 square degrees per night to a detection limit of approximately 24th magnitude. This unique combination of sensitivity and rate of area coverage will open up many new possibilities in time domain astronomy. A major goal for the project is to survey potentially dangerous asteroids, where Pan-STARRS will be able to detect most objects down to 300m size, much smaller than the km size objects accessible to existing search programs. In addition, the Pan-STARRS data products will used to address a wide range of astronomical problems in the Solar System, the Galaxy, and the Cosmos at large. Here, we first outline the Pan-STARRS science goals and describe the survey modes needed to support these. We then describe the design and performance goals, the data processing pipeline, and we review the basic data products. Finally, we present results from simulations that demonstrate Pan-STARRS' capability for detecting potentially hazardous asteroids.
Two forms of long-term depression in a polysynaptic pathway in the leech CNS: one NMDA receptor-dependent and the other cannabinoid-dependent.

Although long-term depression (LTD) is a well-studied form of synaptic plasticity, it is clear that multiple cellular mechanisms are involved in its induction. In the leech, LTD is observed in a polysynaptic connection between touch mechanosensory neurons (T cells) and the S interneuron following low frequency stimulation. LTD elicited by 450 s low frequency stimulation was blocked by N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor antagonists. However, LTD elicited by 900 s low frequency stimulation was insensitive to NMDA receptor antagonists and was instead dependent on cannabinoid signaling. This LTD was blocked by both a cannabinoid receptor antagonist and by inhibition of diacylglycerol lipase, which is necessary for the synthesis of the cannabinoid transmitter 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG). Bath application of 2-AG or the cannabinoid receptor agonist CP55 940 also induced LTD at this synapse. These results indicate that two forms of LTD coexist at the leech T-to-S polysynaptic pathway: one that is NMDA receptor-dependent and another that is cannabinoid-dependent and that activation of either form of LTD is dependent on the level of activity in this circuit.
A COMPARISON OF SODIUM FLUORIDE, STANNOUS FLUORIDE AND ACIDULATED SODIUM FLUOROPHOSPHATE AS AGENTS FOR FLUORIDIZATION

If you can find the time, here is a substantial review of the development of the topical application of sodium fluoride, stannous fluoride and acidic fluoride-phosphate. Fluoridization, if you forget, is a term for the topical application of fluoride.
Calculation of SAR and B/sub 1/-field within human head excited by MRI birdcage coils

Birdcage coils have been widely used to generate radiofrequency (RF) pulses for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) because of their capability to produce a highly homogeneous B/sub 1/-field over a large volume within the coil. This is true even if the coil is loaded with a human body or a human head provided that the frequency of the B/sub 1/-field is low (less than 50 MHz). However, when birdcage coils are employed for high frequency MRI, the interaction between the electromagnetic (EM) field and the biological object to be imaged deteriorates the B/sub 1/-field homogeneity. Such a deterioration reduces the quality of the MR images and causes difficulties for advanced MRI studies such as functional MRI and MR spectroscopy. Moreover, the EM interaction at high frequencies also leads to an increased electric field, thus, an increased specific energy absorption rate (SAR) in the biological object, causing concern about the possible adverse effects of MRI on human health. Jin et al. (see Phys. Med. Biol., vol.41, p.2719-38, 1996) proposed a method that was suitable for modelling open MRI coils; however, it has difficulties in modelling coils with an RF shield, which is often used to reduce the unwanted interactions between the EM fields and the exterior structures. We employ the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method to study this problem. It is found that the FDTD method can effectively model the complex anatomical structure of the human head, the currents in the MRI coil, and the RF shield.
Gas/particle partitioning of water-soluble organic aerosol in Atlanta

Abstract. Gas and particle-phase organic carbon compounds soluble in water (e.g., WSOC) were measured simultaneously in Atlanta throughout the summer of 2007 to investigate gas/particle partitioning of ambient secondary organic aerosol (SOA). Previous studies have established that, in the absence of biomass burning, particulate WSOC (WSOCp) is mainly from secondary organic aerosol (SOA) production. Comparisons between WSOCp, organic carbon (OC) and elemental carbon (EC) indicate that WSOCp was a nearly comprehensive measure of SOA in the Atlanta summertime. WSOCp and gas-phase WSOC (WSOCg) concentrations both exhibited afternoon maxima, indicating that photochemistry was a major route for SOA formation. An additional nighttime maximum in the WSOCg concentration indicated a dark source for oxidized organic gases, but this was not accompanied by detectable increases in WSOCp. To study SOA formation mechanisms, WSOC gas/particle partitioning was investigated as a function of temperature, RH, NOx, O3, and organic aerosol mass concentration. No clear relationship was observed between temperature and partitioning, possibly due to a simultaneous effect from other temperature-dependent processes. For example, positive temperature effects on emissions of biogenic SOA precursors and photochemical SOA formation may have accounted for the observed similar proportional increases of WSOCp and WSOCg with temperature. Relative humidity data indicated a linear dependence between partitioning and predicted fine particle liquid water. Lower NOx concentrations were associated with greater partitioning to particles, but WSOC partitioning had no visible relation to O3 or fine particle OC mass concentration. There was, however, a relationship between WSOC partitioning and the WSOCp concentration, suggesting a compositional dependence between partitioning semi-volatile gases and the absorbing organic aerosol. Combined, the overall results suggest two dominant SOA formation processes in urban Atlanta during summer. One was the photochemical production of SOA from presumably biogenic precursors that increased with the onset of sunrise and peaked in the afternoon. The other, which showed no apparent diurnal pattern, involved the partitioning of semi-volatile gases to liquid water, followed by heterogeneous reactions. The co-emission of water vapor and biogenic VOCs from vegetation may link these processes.
Simplified Electro-Optic Probing Utilizing the Fabry-Perot Effect

A simplified RF-probing system that employs a wavelength-tunable laser diode and the Fabry-Perot effect within an electro-optic-crystal microcavity is presented. More than 43 dB of EO SNR is measured without the use of polarizers and waveplates.
Radiation-Induced Cataractogenesis: A Critical Literature Review for the Interventional Radiologist

Extensive research supports an association between radiation exposure and cataractogenesis. New data suggests that radiation-induced cataracts may form stochastically, without a threshold and at low radiation doses. We first review data linking cataractogenesis with interventional work. We then analyze the lens dose typical of various procedures, factors modulating dose, and predicted annual dosages. We conclude by critically evaluating the literature describing techniques for lens protection, finding that leaded eyeglasses may offer inadequate protection and exploring the available data on alternative strategies for cataract prevention.
Gender Equity in the Accounting Profession: An Update

In this paper we contribute to the literature on gender equity in the public accounting profession in three ways. We provide an overview of the current status of gender issues in the public accounting industry, including: workforce demographics, compensation, discrimination lawsuits, impressions from female leaders, and the Accounting MOVE Project. We also present results of a survey of college students that show that, despite the industry’s female retention efforts through multiple women’s initiative programs, there are still significant differences in gender perceptions of the public accounting industry. Finally we summarize some key areas that we recommend the public accounting industry continue to focus on to improve female retention rates.
Implantable Electronics

In recent years, implantable electronics have started to interface with wearable and pervasive networks, hinting at a continuum from intrabody to wearable to ubiquitous systems. The articles in this special issue give a broad snapshot of research in implantable electronics, focusing in particular on medical applications of interest to our community.
Non-linear dynamic instability analysis of laminated composite cylindrical shells subjected to periodic axial loads

Abstract The dynamic instability of thin laminated composite cylindrical shells subjected to harmonic axial loading is investigated in the present work based on nonlinear analysis. The equations of motion are developed using Donnell’s shallow-shell theory and with von Karman-type of nonlinearity. The nonlinear large deflection shallow-shell equation of motions are solved by using Galerkin’s technique that leads to a system of nonlinear Mathieu–Hill equations. Both stable and unstable solutions amplitude of the steady-state vibrations are obtained by applying the Bolotin’s method. The nonlinear dynamic stability characteristics of both symmetric and antisymmetric cross-ply laminates with different lamination schemes are examined. A detailed parametric study is conducted to examine and compare the effects of the magnitude of both tensile and compressive axial loads, aspect ratios of the shell including length-to-radius and thickness-to-radius ratios, and different circumferential wave numbers as well on the parametric resonance particularly the steady-state vibrations amplitude. The present results show good agreement with that available in the literature.
Tables on fifth power residuacity

In this paper 2 p ≡ 1 (modq),q=10p+1,p ≡ 3 (mod 4),p andq prime, is expressed uniquely (except for changes in sign and interchange ofx, y) in the formq=w 2+25 (x 2+y 2)/2+125z 2, 4wz=y 2−x 2−4xy, withw, x, y, z odd, forp<105. For 105<p<106, allp such that 2 p ≡ 1 (mod 10p + 1),p ≡ 3 (mod 4),p and 10p + 1 prime, are listed.
Superplastic ceramics: They’re not a stretch of the imagination anymore

After years of investigation, the search for ductile ceramics is finally uncovering some promising behavior in these materials. Although skepticism has long surrounded the development of superplastic ceramics—some would say that the only stretch was in one’s imagination—a number of breakthroughs have occurred in the last five years that irrefutably demonstrate that some ceramics, particularly yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia, exhibit ductile properties and phenomena similar to those commonly found in most superplastic metals.
Nanoscale investigation of solid electrolyte interphase inhibition on li-ion battery MnO electrodes via atomic layer deposition of Al 2O3

Application of a functional surface coating on Li-ion battery electrodes can potentially result in a significant enhancement of the lifespan of the battery cell. In particular, atomic layer deposition (ALD), which can create highly conformal ultrathin oxide films on many different electrodes has been shown to increase the cyclability in these systems. In this study, we explore the impact of such films on the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), which may explain why these films show improvements in the cycling performance. Specifically, we characterize, using in situ scanning ion conductance microscopy and other ex situ surface characterization techniques, the SEI formed on ALD Al2O3 coated and uncoated MnO electrodes. We ascertain that ∼9 A is the minimum thickness of ALD Al2O3 that will inhibit thick SEI formation. Furthermore, we show that the ALD surface coating is robust and prevents SEI formation for at least 100 cycles. Lastly, we investigated the differences between our in situ and...
Reducing Vortex Shedding Sound from a Trailing Edge Above a Wall Jet

Large eddy simulation (LES) was used to simulate vortex shedding behind a blunt trailing edge located directly above a curved wall jet. The spectrum from the LES of fluctuating wall pressures at the trailing edge showed a fundamental tone that was consistent with an audible tone observed in an experiment using the same trailing edge and wall jet configuration. The LES showed that spanwise vortices shed from the blunt trailing edge were responsible for the tone. The lower surface of the trailing edge which bounded the wall jet was then contoured in an attempt to diffuse the shear layer above the wall jet downstream of the trailing edge, thereby reducing the intensity of the vortex shedding. Wall pressure spectra from an LES of the contoured trailing edge showed a significant reduction in the amplitude of the fundamental tone from the shed vortices, and also the broad band spectrum. The spanwise shape of the trailing edge was also changed to a sawtooth configuration in an attempt to break up the strong spanwise vortices. Wall pressure spectra from an LES of the sawtooth configuration showed some areas of the trailing edge with reduced tonal amplitude, but other areas where the amplitude was increased, when compared to the original blunt trailing edge. Calculated far field sound spectra confirmed the reduction in tonal and broad band amplitudes for both the contoured and sawtooth trailing edge shapes. The far field sound spectra were calculated using the Ffowcs-Williams Hawkings approach with stationary, compact sources. In the LES technique, the filtered, incompressible Navier-Stokes equations were discretized using a second order, bounded central difference scheme. Time advancement was implicit and second order accurate using a fractional step method. The sub-grid scale turbulence was accounted for with a dynamic Smagorinsky model.
Electronic Structure of AgPbmSbTem+2 Compounds – Implications on Thermoelectric Properties

Novel quaternary compounds AgPbmSbTem+2 (LAST-m) with different m values have been synthesized recently and some of these compounds show promising thermoelectric properties at high temperatures. The two end members of the series, PbTe (m=∞) and AgSbTe2 (m=0), are also known to be good thermoelectrics. In this paper, we discuss the results of ab initio electronic structure calculations for these two end members and for LAST-2 and LAST-14 to see how the electronic structure near the chemical potential μ evolves with m. Whereas PbTe and LAST-14 are narrow band gap semiconductors, the other two compounds show pseudo-gap structure. Even in the absence of a true gap, the rapidly varying density of states (DOS) near μ may be conducive to large Seebeck coefficient in LAST-2 and AgSbTe2.
Abstract 2618: DNMT1 as a marker of differential sensitivities to epigenetic therapy of a Kras mutant and Kras wild type human non small cell lung cancer cell line

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL INTRODUCTION: Epigenetic therapy with a demethylating agent and an histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) is now being pursued in hematological as well as solid tumor malignancies. Clinical responses have been varied with complete responses in some patients and no efficacy of the drugs in others. We investigated the effect of this therapy on two targets, DNA methyltransferase1 (DNMT1) and H3K4 modified histones, respectively. METHODS: Two human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines, A549 (Kras mutant) and H838 (Kras wild type) were pre-exposed for 72 hours with daily treatment of 500nM azacitidine alone or 72 hours of daily 500nM azacitidine followed subsequently with 10 nM, 100nM, 1000nM entinostat at 96 hours. DNMT1 and H3K4 protein levels were assayed by Western blot analysis at various time points after treatment. Cells were also re-plated after treatment to assess differential growth characteristics. RESULTS: In vitro growth of H838 cells is sensitive to azacitidine alone and in combination with entinostat whereas growth of the A549 cell line is only sensitive to azacitidine and entinostat in combination. Treatment with azacitidine, severely depleted DNMT1 protein expression in H838 cells both when given alone and in combination with most dose levels of entinostat. This decrease was transient and within 4 days, the protein was fully replenished. Azacitidine alone did not cause an appreciable decrease in DNMT1 protein expression of A549 cells but, when combined with increasing levels of entinostat, DNMT1 levels were significantly depleted and did not replenish for 7 days. Re-plating after treatment showed growth inhibition versus mock of all regimens containing azacitidine in the H838 cell line only whereas growth inhibition in the A549 cells was observed only in the combinatory therapy arms. Furthermore, in the A549 cell line, H3K4 protein levels (a marker of active gene expression) peaked at 7 days after treatment versus a peak in the first 24 hours in the H838 cell line. CONCLUSIONS: Differing sensitivities to epigenetic therapy in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines may reflect underlying differences in molecular phenotypes. Large decreases in DNMT1 expression are associated with sensitivity to azacitidine. In a cell line insensitive to azacidine alone, the addition of entinostat may accentuate DNMT1 protein depletion and delay its reexpression. This effect on DNMT1 may render this latter cancer cell line more sensitive to epigenetic therapy. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2618. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-2618
Utilization of Food by Sinea Diadema (Fabr.) (Reduviidae, Hemiptera)

During the past ten years I have published a series of articles on several bionomic features of two predatory entomophagous Hemiptera, Sinea diadema and the phymatid, Phymata pennsylvanica americana Melin. A list of these papers is appended for the convenience of interested persons. Among the more recent of these are three that pertain to (a) weight patterns and (b) variability in the duration of the insects. In the course of the work on these two problems, there accumulated a large body of data which now prove to bear also on the utilization of food by the nymphal instars of the above predators. The data relative to Sinea are better suited to this question than are those from Phymata , and for this reason the present article deals exclusively with Sinea . The reader will recognize that the plan of the project on weights and instars did not envisage the results on food-use presented below, and that these are therefore in the nature of by-products. The procedure might have been better designed than it was, had utilization of food been among the original objectives of the undertaking. For example, the diets administered to the several series of experimental bugs were not evenly graduated as to amount, hence the results do not lend themselves to expression in the form of a curve. Yet the data are, I believe, of such significance with reference to insect nutrition as to warrant this publication.
An objective method of determining punchability of laminate materials

A NEMA/ASTM/IPC/EIA sponsored steering committee has been formed to develop (in conjunction with the NEMA-University of Delaware Test Facility) a nonoperator controlled, quantitative, reproducible method of determining the punchability of laminates—clad and unclad.
Individual and group identities in genocide and mass killing.

identity and the origins of mass killing and genocide: brief review I will review and extend here the exploration of origins by describing how individual and group identities are involved in the paths to genocide or mass killing. To begin, severe economic problems deeply impact people. Unemployment, or the inability to provide for oneself and one's family owing to severe inflation, makes people feel insecure and ineffective. Such conditions call into question people's personal identity and self-worth: Who am I if I have no work and cannot take care of the basic material needs of myself and my family? At the same time that identity is questioned, ties to one's group can also weaken because the problems originate in society and social conditions. Intense political conflict and disorganization also affect people's experience of their group and perception of the world. Rapid social change, which often occurs at times of economic and political crises, adds to social chaos and disorganization. Since substantial social change requires adjustment, even positive change places demands on people. The different elements of difficult life conditions, which may occur separately but frequently are present in some combination, frustrate many of the basic needs. In difficult times, focusing on their own needs, people become disconnected from each other. At times when they need it most, people lack connection and support.
Sperm washing and swim-up technique using antibiotics removes microbes from human semen

Pelvic infections may follow intrauterine or intratubal insemination with washed semen. In this study, we determined whether sperm washing removes microorganisms from human semen. Before and after semen wash, we cultured 15 ejaculates for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, genital mycoplasma, and chlamydia. All semen samples had from one to five organisms isolated (total, 40 isolates) before the semen wash preparation. The mean number (+/- standard deviation) of isolates per sample was 2.67 +/- 1.35. After the semen were prepared, none of the samples showed a positive culture. The decrease in the number of samples with positive cultures and the decrease in the number of isolates is significant (P less than 0.0001). After sperm washing, electronmicroscopic studies did not show any microbes attached to any portion of the spermatozoa. We conclude that the method of sperm wash preparation used is effective in removing microbes present in human semen.
Peer Assessment of Clinical Skills and Professional Behaviors Among Undergraduate Athletic Training Students

Context: Peer assessment is widely used in medical education as a formative evaluation and preparatory tool for students. Athletic training students learn similar knowledge, skills, and affective traits as medical students. Peer assessment has been widely studied with beneficial results in medical education, yet athletic training education has thus far produced only 2 studies that address the use of peer assessment with athletic training students. Objective: To identify whether undergraduate athletic training students accurately and reliably assess their peers on clinical skills and professional behaviors. Design: Quasi-experimental between-groups and within-group. Setting: Medical exam office. Patients or Other Participants: Junior and senior athletic training students, classroom faculty and clinical preceptors (instructors) from the same Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education athletic training program. Intervention(s): One instructor and 2 students concurrently performed an assessmen...
Temporal Trends in Conduit Urinary Diversion With Concomitant Cystectomy for Benign Indications: A Population-based Analysis.

Objective To describe national trends in cystectomy at the time of urinary diversion for benign indications. Multiple practice patterns exist regarding the necessity for concomitant cystectomy with urinary diversion for benign end-stage lower urinary tract dysfunction. Beyond single-institution reports, limited data are available to describe how concurrent cystectomy is employed on a national level. Materials and Methods A representative sample of patients undergoing urinary diversion for benign indications with or without concurrent cystectomy was identified from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 1998 to 2011. Using multivariate logistic regression models, we identified hospital- and patient-level characteristics associated with concomitant cystectomy with urinary diversion. Results There was an increase in the proportion of concomitant cystectomy at the time of urinary diversion from 20% to 35% ( P Conclusion There has been an overall increase in the use of cystectomy at the time of urinary diversion for benign indications on a national level, although the indications driving this clinical decision appear inconsistent.