cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Thermal stresses in viscoelastic structures

Das thermo-mechanische Verhalten eines statisch unbestimmten Fachwerks wird untersucht unter der Annahme, dass die Fachwerkstabe der Maxwellschen Spannungs-Formanderungsbeziehung gehorchen. Insbesondere wird der Einfluss typischer Last- und Temperaturanderungen besprochen. Obwohl der genaue Zusammenhang zwischen Spannung und Kriechgeschwindigkeit in Baumetallen weniger einfach ist als der fur das Maxwellsche Material vorausgesetzte lineare Zusammenhang, kann man erwarten, dass das hier besprochene Modell den Einfluss von Kriechvorgangen auf die Spannungen in statisch unbestimmten Konstruktionen qualitativ wiedergibt.
Mesoscale Variability of Boundary Layer Properties in the Los Angeles Basin

Abstract We employ daytime radiosonde data to analyze boundary layer (BL) variability within the Los Angeles Basin for a case study day. The predominantly mesoscale forcing in the region produces large spatial and temporal variations in BL depth and vertically averaged BL virtual potential temperature and wind velocity. Particularly notable are the shallowing of BL depth—beginning in midmorning at the coast and in the early afternoon inland—and the afternoon decrease in BL potential temperature. The relative importance of terms in the BL continuity, thermodynamics, and momentum equations is evaluated; values for area-averaged entrainment velocity, surface heat flux, and mean BL pressure gradient force (PGF) are derived as residuals. Our budget equations are vertically integrated to the variable BL top and are thus more appropriate to investigations of BL variables than are equations integrated to a fixed height. Advection and divergence are shown to affect BL depth, heating, and acceleration significantly...
Uncooled IR applications for the battlefield: ground-based sensors at Alliant Techsystems

Uncooled IR has been predicted to dominate commercial IR design within five years. The military market is moving in the same direction but with unique requirements. Alliant Techsystems is currently designing and field testing uncooled IR sensors for dual mode seekers, aerial surveillance, fire control systems, and RSTA applications. This paper will review the tradeoffs for several of our ground based program applications. Performance models are given for several microbolometer sensor approaches.
FT-IR Characterization of the Surface of Aluminum as a Result of Chemical Treatment

Abstract FT-IR was used to characterize the surfaces of Al after various chemical treatments. All of the oxide surfaces were composed of an anhydrous alumina, aluminum oxyhydroxide (pseudoboehmite) and aluminum hydroxide (close to Gibbsite). The major contaminants in the different oxides are chemisorbed CO2, carbonates and bi-carbonates. The chromic acid anodized surfaces (CAA) contain more hydroxyls and water than the sulfuric acid anodized surfaces (SAA) while the latter contain more alumina (Al2O3). The CAA surfaces have a duplex structure mainly of hydrated and oxyhydroxylated layers over a hydrated alumina layer. The SAA surfaces have a triplex structure composed mainly of hydrated and hydroxylated layers over an oxyhydroxylated layer which is over a hydrated alumina layer. The surfaces chemically converted by the Iridite© process are composed of a duplex structure of a mixed organic-inorganicl layer over a hydrated alumina. The organic portion of the layer was identified as a carbamate species.
Compliant Rolling-Contact Element Mechanisms

This paper presents three planar mechanisms capable of performing the functions of a bearing and a spring: the compliant rolling-contact element (CORE), the CORE bearing, and the elliptical CORE bearing. The designs use compliant rolling-contact joints to achieve low friction rotation and to bear high in-plane lateral loads. A model for predicting the behavior of the designs is presented, and manufacturing considerations are discussed for the macro, meso, and micro scales. A case study is presented, and the designs are shown to be capable of meeting the demanding design constraints of the study.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Influence of sorghum grain processing on performance of lactating dairy cows

Abstract Thirty-six lactating Holstein cows (80 DIM) were divided into four groups to compare steam-rolled corn with a density of 489g/L, steam-flaked sorghum grain (360g/L), dry-rolled sorghum grain (643g/L), and an equal mixture of dry-rolled and steam-flaked sorghum grain. Each grain treatment constituted 42% of the TMR. A 14-d pretreatment period was used to allot cows to treatment and to adjust treatment means by covariance analysis. Treatment was for 80 d and included a 14-d digestibility trial using Cr 2 0 3 as a marker. Intake of DM was higher for mixed than for flaked sorghum. Milk yield, FCM yield, and milk fat percentage were not altered by treatment, but cows fed steam-flaked sorghum had higher percentages of protein, lactose, and SNF in milk and greater milk protein yield than those fed dry-rolled sorghum. Percentages of milk lactose and SNF were greater for cows fed flaked sorghum than for those fed steam-rolled corn or the sorghum mixture. Digestibility of OM was higher for flaked sorghum than for steam-rolled corn or rolled sorghum, and digestibilities of CP and NDF were highest for dry-rolled sorghum. Total tract starch digestibility was lowest for cows fed dry-rolled sorghum (70%), highest (92%) for those fed steam-flaked sorghum, and intermediate (82%) for those fed rolled corn and the sorghum mix. Milk yield for cows fed steam-flaked sorghum grain was equal to or superior to that of cows fed steam-rolled corn. Steam flaking of sorghum grain markedly increased starch digestibility and percentage milk protein compared with dry rolling.
Let us shorten antibiotic prophylaxis and therapy in surgery

Excessive duration of antibiotics for prophylaxis and treatment of surgical infection appears to be the principal reason for "inappropriate" administration in current surgical practice. The main factors to blame are the inability of the clinician to distinguish between contamination, infection, and inflammation. Failure to distinguish between contamination and infection is the reason that prophylaxis is unnecessarily carried through into the postoperative phase for prolonged periods. Failure to distinguish between infection and inflammation misguides surgeons to continue antibiotics for unnecessarily long treatment periods. The concept for shortening courses of antibiotic administration is supported by a forum of experts. The majority of experts also favored a trend away from the use of therapeutic courses of fixed duration, by tailoring the duration of administration to the intraoperative findings to shorten treatment courses. Specific recommendations are (1) contamination: single dose prophylaxis (gastroduodenal peptic perforations operated within 12 hours, traumatic enteric perforations operated within 12 hours, peritoneal contamination with bowel contents during elective or emergency procedures, early or phlegmonous appendicitis, or phlegmonous cholecystitis); (2) resectable infection: 24-hour postoperative antibiotics (appendectomy for gangrenous appendicitis, cholecystectomy for gangrenous cholecystitis, bowel resection for ischemic or strangulated "dead" bowel without frank perforation); (3) advanced infection: 48 hours to 5 days, based on operative findings and patient's condition (intra-abdominal infection from diverse sources); (4) severe infection with the source not easily controllable: longer administration periods may be necessary (e.g., infected pancreatic necrosis).
A carbon monoxide analyzer for measurement of smoking behavior

An electrochemically based CO analyzer (Ecolyzer) suitable for use in smoking assessment is described. The relative advantages over other instruments, reliability, accuracy, and factors influencing the use of this instrument are discussed.
The Fabric of Space: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Distance Relations

tart with ordinary Euclidean space. Be a realist about points, and about S distances between points. I ask: how are the points interwoven to form the fabric of space? Are there direct ties only between “neighboring points,” so that points at a distance are connected only indirectly through series of such direct ties? Or are there also direct ties between distant points, so that the fabric is reinforced, as it were, by irreducibly global spatial relations? To fix ideas, roughly, try the following thought experiment. Take a scissors and cut along some plane in space, severing the points just to one side of the plane from the points just to the other. Does space thereby fall into two disconnected pieces, so that points on one side now stand at no spatial distance from points on the other? Or does space, being reinforced, retain its shape? If space is maximally reinforced by direct ties of distance, then a distance relation, such as being rwentyfeetfrorn, is intrinsic to the points that stand in it. Whether or not the relation holds depends solely upon the intrinsic nature of the two points, and of the composite of the points. On the other hand, if space is not maximally reinforced by direct ties of distance, then a distance relation will not in general be intrinsic to the points that stand in it, and its holding may depend in part upon features of the surrounding space. What features? To fix ideas, roughly, try the following thought experiment. Start with two points, say, twenty feet apart, and remove some of the space directly between the two points. (I do not mean just the matter or energy occupying the space; I mean the space itself.) I ask: now how far apart are the points? Are they still twenty feet apart, on the grounds that distance, being intrinsic, is indifferent to changes in the intervening space? Or are they now less than twenty feet apart, on the grounds that there is now less space between them? Or are they now more than twenty feet apart, on the grounds that the shortest (continuous) path from one to the other is now more than twenty feet long? We have three competing answers, each, I think, with some intuitive appeal. Which is correct? And how can we tell?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome have chronic anovulation and androgen excess not attributable to another cause. This condition occurs in approximately 4% of women. The fundamental pathophysiologic defect is unknown, but important characteristics include insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, and altered gonadotropin dynamics. Inadequate follicle-stimulating hormone is hypothesized to be a proximate cause of anovulation. Obesity frequently complicates polycystic ovarian syndrome but is not a defining characteristic. The diagnostic approach should be based largely on history and physical examination, thus avoiding numerous laboratory tests that don't contribute to clinical management. Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome typically present because of irregular bleeding, hirsutism, and/or infertility. These conditions can be treated directly with oral contraceptives, oral contraceptives plus spironolactone, and ovulation induction, respectively. However, women with polycystic ovarian syndrome also have a substantially higher prevalence of diabetes and increased risk factors for cardiovascular disease. They should also be screened, therefore, for these conditions and followed closely if any risk factors are uncovered. For obese women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, behavioral weight management is a central component of the overall treatment strategy.
Obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is an increasingly well-recognized disease characterized by periodic collapse of the upper airway during sleep. This leads to either complete or partial obstruction of the airway, resulting in apneas, hypopneas, or both. This disorder causes daytime somnolence, neurocognitive defects, and depression. It affects almost every system in the body, resulting in an increased incidence of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke, pulmonary hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, and altered immune function. It also increases the risk of having an accident, presumably as a result of associated somnolence. The gold standard for the diagnosis of sleep apnea is an overnight polysomnogram. Split-night studies are becoming increasingly common and allow for quicker implementation of therapy at a reduced cost. Treatment options for sleep apnea include weight loss, positional therapy, oral devices, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and upper airway surgery. CPAP is the most efficacious and widely used therapy. Its complications include nasal congestion or dryness, mask discomfort, and claustrophobia. Heated humidifiers, newer types of masks, and nasal steroids have improved tolerance of this therapy. Bilevel positive-pressure therapy can be considered for patients who find it difficult to exhale against the consistently increased pressure of CPAP. The disease requires aggressive treatment to improve quality of life and prevent its complications.
Update on Traveler's Diarrhea.

Diarrhea is one of the most common health problems among travelers. Although enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli is implicated most commonly, enteroaggregative E. coli has recently been described as a major pathogen. Shigella, Campylobacter, and Salmonella organisms are less common causes of acute diarrhea, and intestinal protozoa are typical causes of protracted diarrhea. Although education is the mainstay of prevention measures, behavior modification has been shown to be difficult. Chemoprevention is rarely required with the availability of effective treatment, but there has been some interest in the use of vaccines. Maintenance of hydration is most important in children. In addition to bismuth preparations and loperamide, newer agents being developed for symptomatic relief include zaldaride maleate and racecadotril. Fluoroquinolones effectively treat severe traveler’s diarrhea, and even a single dose may be sufficient. However, with the emergence of resistance, particularly in Campylobacter infection, other agents are required; interest has focused on azithromycin and rifaximin.
Prospects for Supersymmetry at the {Fermilab} Collider

We compute cross sections for production of pairs of strongly interacting supersymmetric (SUSY) particles in pp\ifmmode\bar\else\textasciimacron\fi{} collisions as a function of collider energy. For a scalar-quark or gluino mass of 80 GeV, we find that the ratio of the SUSY cross section to the standard-model background increases by a factor of about 10 when \ensuremath{\surd}s is increased from 630 to 1600 GeV. If decays to photinos are dominant, we show that in the first 2 years of running, experiments at the Fermilab Tevatron collider should be sensitive to gluino (scalar-quark) masses up to at least ${m}_{g\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}$=150 GeV (${m}_{q\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}$=120 GeV). We show characteristic missing-${p}_{T}$ distributions expected if SUSY particles with such masses are produced. For SUSY particles of large mass, we stress the importance of scalar-quark and gluino decays to W and Z gauginos.
Effects of changing heart rate on electrophysiological and hemodynamic function in the dog.

Abstract Cardiovascular parameters were measured in dogs after RR interval was changed from 0.25 s to 1.2 s with atropine and graded doses of zatebradine, an I f -channel blocker. Left ventricular (LV) pre-ejection period (PEP), systemic vascular resistance, tau (an estimate of myocardial stiffness), PQ, QTc, dLVP/dt max and dLVP/dt min , aortic pressure, and right atrial pressure did not change when each parameter was plotted against RR interval (r 2 's ≤ 0.5). LV end-diastolic pressure, stroke volume index, LV ejection time (ET), and QT all increased either linearly or curvilinearly as RR interval prolonged. Cardiac output index and PEP/ET decreased curvilinearly. When heart rate (HR) was fixed by pacing, and graded doses of zatebradine were given, changes in cardiovascular function were minimal. Thus zatebradine affects cardiovascular function principally by changing HR and not by affecting function directly. This study provides data on the effects of changing HR, alone, on cardiovascular parameters measured frequently during pharmacological and toxicological studies. It should prove useful when physiological variables, including HR, change, and there is need to know what change in HR, alone, contributes.
Wet effluent parallel plate diffusion denuder coupled capillary ion chromatograph for the determination of atmospheric trace gases.

Abstract We describe an inexpensive, compact parallel plate diffusion denuder coupled capillary IC system for the determination of soluble ionogenic atmospheric trace gases. The active sampling area (0.6×10 cm) of the denuder is formed in a novel manner by thermally bonding silica gel particles to the surface of Plexiglas plates. The effluent liquid from the parallel plate diffusion denuder is collected and preconcentrated on a capillary preconcentrator column before analysis using a capillary ion chromatograph. Using SO2 as the test gas, collection efficiency is essentially quantitative at air sampling rates up to 500 ml min−1. The system provides a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.6 parts per trillion for SO2 for a 10 min sampling period.
Pain in the Nursing Home

Pain is an understudied problem in geriatric medicine and especially among nursing home residents. The focus of this study was to describe the scope of the problem of pain in a long-term care facility. Ninety-seven subjects from a 311-bed multilevel teaching nursing home were interviewed, and charts were reviewed for pain problems and management strategies. Functional status, depression, and cognitive impairment were also evaluated. Results indicate that 71% of residents had at least one pain complaint (range, 1-4). Of subjects with pain, 34% described constant (continuous) pain and 66% described intermittent pain. Of 43 subjects with intermittent pain, 51% described pain on a daily basis. Major sources of pain included low back pain (40%), arthritis of appendicular joints (24%), previous fracture sites (14%), and neuropathies (11%). Moderately strong correlations were found between pain and infrequent attendance at recreational and social activities (r = .50). However, little correlation was observed between pain and the Yesavage Depression Scale, the Folstein Mini-Mental State Scale, or basic ADLs measured by the Katz Scale. Pain-management strategies consisted of analgesic drugs, physical therapy, and heating pads. Only 15% of patients with pain had received medication within the previous 24 hours. The findings suggest that pain is a major problem in long-term care. Strategies for pain management appear to be limited in scope and application in this setting. Important barriers were identified that influence the reporting and management of pain in this setting.
Printed Organic Electronic Devices Made using High Volume Printing Processes

Printing is a promising technique to fabricate commercial organic electronic devices such as OLED, TFT, solar cells and sensors. In this investigation, we report the application of high volume flexographic printing, which makes low cost and batch production possible. Commercial RFID tags have been printed using metallic inks with organic compounds in the Printing Applications Lab (PAL) at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Polyaniline ink was prepared and printed by flexography in the form of test targets and Interdigitated electrodes (IDE). The conductivity can be controlled by different levels of doping. Furthermore, multiple impression printing was used to print overlapping functional layers to obtain all printed organic electronic devices like chemical vapor and humidity sensors. Optical profilometry and SEM were used to analyze the surface and interface structure. Sensitivity was measured and compared with commercial devices.
EFFECTS OF EVOLOCUMAB (AMG 145) IN HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIC, STATIN-TREATED, JAPANESE PATIENTS AT HIGH CARDIOVASCULAR RISK: RESULTS FROM THE PHASE III YUKAWA 2 STUDY

Evolocumab (AMG 145), a fully human monoclonal antibody inhibiting PCSK9, significantly reduced LDL-C in phase 2 and 3 studies. This phase 3 study (the largest PCSK9 inhibitor study in Japan to date) examined the efficacy and safety of evolocumab in high CV risk Japanese patients on stable statin
Synthesis of a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor in the alkenyldiarylmethane (ADAM) series with optimized potency and therapeutic index

Abstract A novel alkenyldiarylmethane (ADAM) analog has been synthesized with enhanced potency as an anti-HIV agent. The new compound (ADAM II) inhibits the cytopathic effect of HIV-1RF in CEM-SS cells with an EC50 of 13 nM, while it shows cytotoxicity with a CC50 of 31.6 μM, providing a therapeutic index of 2430. ADAM II is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, displaying an IC50 of 0.3 μM with poly(rC) oligo(dG) as the template/primer.
On the spectrum of 2D conformal field theories

Abstract Possible unitary statistical models and SU(2) current algebra theories are classified up to certain “levels” of the Virasoro and Kac-Moody algebras. A connection that is found between the Virasoro and SU(2) Kac-Moody characters is used to generate unitary statistical models from the SU(2) theories. Using the “fusion rules” of the operator product algebra of these theories, we are able to check the consistency of the solutions, and to write down their operator product algebra. The connection between the two algebras extends also to the fusion rules.
Low-cost, scalable laser scanning module for real-time reflectance and fluorescence confocal microscopy

We present a low-cost, high-speed, retrofitted laser scanning module for microscopy. The cage-mounted system, with various available fiber-coupled sources, offers a real-time imaging alternative to costly commercial systems with capabilities for conventional or confocal reflectance and fluorescence applications as well as advanced laser scanning microscopy implementations. Reflectance images of a resolution target and confocal images of fluorescent polystyrene beads are presented for system characterization. Confocal fluorescence image stacks of T84 epithelial cancer cells are presented to demonstrate application to biological studies. This laser scanning module is a flexible, scalable, high-speed alternative to commercial laser scanning systems suitable for applications requiring a simple imaging tool and for teaching laboratories.
Discrete Gabor transforms: The Gabor-Gram matrix approach

The fundamental problem ofdiscrete Gabor transforms is to compute a set ofGabor coefficients in efficient ways. Recent study on the subject is an indirect approach: in order to compute the Gabor coefficients, one needs to find an auxiliary bi-orthogonal window function γ.
Evaporation from an ionic liquid emulsion.

The conditions during evaporation in a liquid crystal-in-ionic liquid microemulsion (LC/μEm) were estimated using the phase diagram of the system. The equations for selected tie lines were established and the coordinates calculated for the sites, at which the evaporation lines crossed the tie lines. These values combined with the coordinates for the phases connecting the tie lines were used to calculate the amounts and the composition of the fractions of the two phases present in the emulsion during the evaporation. One of the emulsion phases was a lamellar liquid crystal and high energy emulsification would lead to the liquid crystal being disrupted to form vesicles. Such a system tenders a unique opportunity to study the interaction between vesicles and normal micelles, which gradually change to inverse micelles over bi-continuous structures. The amount of vesicles in the liquid phase versus the fraction liquid crystal was calculated for two extreme cases of vesicle core size and shell thickness. The limit of evaporation while retaining the vesicle structure was calculated for emulsions of different original compositions assuming the minimum continuous liquid phase to be 50% of the emulsion.
Friction in a spin

The mechanics of friction may seem the stuff of high-school physics, but only now are some aspects of the problem being understood. A spinning coin is the subject of a new exploration of frictional forces.
Research Spotlight: The traveling rings of the North Brazil Current

[1] The North Brazil Current (NBC) moves northward along the northeastern coast of Brazil. Drawing from the South Equatorial Current and the outflow of freshwater from the Amazon River, the NBC carries warm, nutrient-rich water north of the equator. Up near the coast of French Guiana, part of the NBC makes a hard right, flowing east along the equator. Once in a while the turn is especially sharp and the current loops around, pinching off an independently traveling parcel of ocean water. This portion of current travels northwest with a clockwise rotation, moving through the ocean like a Frisbee™ travels through air. (Journal of Geophysical Research-Oceans, doi:10.1029/2010JC006575, 2011)
Neural correlates of processing syntactic, semantic, and thematic relationships in sentences

Event-related potentials were measured as subjects read sentences presented word by word. A small N400 and a robust P600 effect were elicited by verbs that assigned the thematic role of Agent to their preceding noun-phrase argument when this argument was inanimate in nature. The amplitude of the P600, but not the N400, was modulated by the transitivity of the critical verbs and by plausibility ratings of passivised versions of these sentences (reflecting the fit between the critical verb and the inanimate noun-phrase as the verb's Theme). The P600 was similar in scalp distribution although smaller in amplitude, than that elicited by verbs with morphosyntactic violations. Pragmatically unlikely verbs that did not violate thematic constraints elicited a larger N400 but no P600 effect. These findings support the theory that the cost of syntactic processing on a verb is influenced by the precise thematic relationships between that verb and its preceding arguments.
Engineering model of inversion channel mobility for 60-300 K temperature range

Describes the first engineering MOSFET effective-mobility model covering the temperature range 60-300 K which is important for low-temperature CMOS applications. The experimental data obtained using the split C/V method clearly demonstrate the deviations from the universal dependence of the effective mobility mu on the effective vertical field E/sub eff/ at low temperatures. The model presented in this letter is verified by comparison with experimental device characteristics and shows explicitly how the universal mu (E/sub eff/) dependence emerges at the ambient temperature around 300 K. >
Stimulating Self-Directed Learning Through the Managerial Assessment and Development Course

To address common criticisms of MBA graduates, the Weatherhead School of Management developed a new curriculum including a required course called Mana- gerial Assessment and Development. During the course, students develop an assess- ment of strengths and weaknesses on 22 abilities, 11 knowledge areas, and 5 value themes. The assessment incorporates rigorously coded assessment exercises, self- assessment, and assessment from others (i.e., family, friends, coworkers, managers, etc.). In the context of a 12-person Executive Action Team, each student develops a personal Learning Plan to stimulate and guide development during the entire MBA program.
In vitro interaction of the glycine receptor with the leptin receptor.

Abstract The coordination and regulation of electrical signals across excitable cells is a complex, dynamic phenomenon requiring, in part, the interaction of ion channels with cellular constituents. The intracellular loops or domains of many ion channel subunits have been shown to specifically bind other cellular components that act in receptor targeting, localization, regulation, or modulation of function. In this report we describe experiments in which the large intracellular loop of the α1 subunit of the glycine receptor (GlyR) was used as “bait” to search a human brain library for proteins that may interact with this receptor. The GlyR is the major inhibitory ligand-gated ion channel in the spinal cord and lower brainstem, and is a member of the nicotinicoid superfamily of receptors. These in vitro studies identified the leptin receptor as a potential binding partner for GlyR, and this interaction was confirmed in binding studies that used the cytoplasmic loop of the GlyR as an affinity ligand for homogenized tissue from rat spinal cords and lower brainstem. Mass spectrometric analyses of eluants showed that the leptin receptor was specifically extracted from the homogenized and solubilized tissue. The long form of the leptin receptor is expressed in the hypothalamus (as is the GlyR) and among its other functions, it quickly evokes a satiation response upon binding leptin. Our in vitro results suggest that this rapid initial response may be mediated through direct interaction of the leptin receptor with GlyR or a related nicotinicoid family member homolog.
Performance of a time-of-flight spectrometer for thin film analysis by medium energy ion scattering

Abstract In this paper we describe the performance of a recently developed time-of-flight detector for surface analysis by medium energy ion scattering (MEIS). Using ions in the 100–500 keV energy range, this detector is capable of providing sensitivity and depth resolution exceeding that of conventional MeV Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) performed with a surface barrier detector. For the detector design on which we report here, the timing resolution is between 140 and 200 ps and the effective solid angle is about 3 × 10 −5 sr. In future designs the effective solid angle should be easily increased by a factor of four by eliminating known losses. In the studies reported here, the energy resolution is limited by the intrinsic resolution of the ion beam used to make the measurements. This paper reports measurements of the detector efficiency as a function of energy for α particles and provides examples of the detector performance analyzing thin films by α backscattering, C 2+ backscattering, and (forward) elastic recoil detection.
A System Level Analysis of the Framework and Feasibility for Dual Air and Road Mode Vehicle

The dual mode air-road vehicle is one of those concepts that have intrigued travelers and inventors for a long time. The quest for a vehicle that can be driven on the roads and flown in the sky started as early as the development of airplane by Wright brothers in 1906. With the ever growing traffic and congestion on the roads, increased security procedures at airports and airline hub-spoke system, the travel times for certain range of distances have increased in recent times creating a need for a dual mode vehicle. In the US, for the mid-range distances (200–500 mile), travel options available are limited for other than large population centers. Transportation by train or bus is often limited and involves multi-stops between desired destinations. Therefore, the mid-range travel is more likely accomplished by a car or an airline or sometimes both. Travel by car or airline for this ranged can consumes considerable time because of road, airport and air traffic congestions, security procedures and wait times. A survey published in 2004 by Bureau of Transportation Statistics [1] reveals that 200–500 mile trips account for about 31.8% of the total trips taken in the US.With the premise that a dual mode vehicle could be a potential solution for mid-range travel, particularly around a 300 mile distance, the present work aims at establishing a frame-work and performance envelope for this type vehicle, In other words, the roadable aircraft or the flying car. These vehicles are neither a high performance car nor a high performance aircraft. They are vehicles that have the capability to be driven on the roads and flown in the sky. The present study focuses on identifying the technical, operational and acceptability challenges that have to be overcome to build a dual mode vehicle. This paper also covers some preliminary design aspects like power-fuel requirements, wing-airfoil parameters and an approach to address the road mode issues arising due to the wing.© 2012 ASME
End-of-dose emergent psychopathology in ambulatory patients with epilepsy on stable-dose lamotrigine monotherapy: a case series of six patients.

Abstract Objective Specific psychological withdrawal symptoms following the cessation of treatment with many drugs that affect the central nervous system, including anxiolytics and antidepressants, have been well documented. Studies have investigated withdrawal symptoms associated with some of the older antiepileptic drugs, but the potential for withdrawal symptoms associated with newer antiepileptic drugs, including lamotrigine, has not yet been investigated. Methods Using a retrospective chart review, we identified six patients with epilepsy who reported transient emergent psychological symptoms during stable, chronic lamotrigine monotherapy. Results These symptoms included anxiety, emotional lability, and irritability. In each case, the symptoms resulted in marked subjective distress and reliably occurred in the 1–2 h before the patients were due to take their next dose of medication. Conclusions Lamotrigine withdrawal symptoms exist and can occur as an end-of-dose phenomenon, even in patients on stable medication doses. End-of-dose withdrawal from lamotrigine is a clinically significant adverse effect that can hamper successful treatment with this medication.
In vitro infectability of prosthetic mesh by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Although mesh use is important for effective herniorrhaphy in adults, prosthetic infections can cause serious morbidity. Bacterial adherence to the mesh is a known precursor to prosthetic infection. We compared the ability of common mesh prosthetics to resist bacterial adherence. The meshes studied included polypropylene (Marlex, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) with and without silver chlorhexidine coating (DualMesh Plus and Dualmesh) composite meshes (Composix E/X, Proceed, and Parietex Composite) and lightweight polypropylene meshes (TiMesh, Ultrapro, and Vypro). Fifteen samples of each mesh type were individually inoculated with a suspension of 10(8 )methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in tryptic soy broth. After incubation at 37 degrees C for 1 h, the mesh pieces were then removed and serially washed. The colony-forming units (CFU) of MRSA present in the initial inoculum, at the end of the 1-h warm-water bath (broth count), and the pooled washes (wash count), were determined using serial dilutions and spot plating. The bacteria not accounted for in the broth or wash counts were considered adhered to the mesh. Samples of each mesh type were also analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data are presented as the mean percentage adherence with ANOVA and Tukey's test used to determine significance (P<0.05). The DualMesh Plus mesh had no detectable MRSA in the broth or the pooled wash samples. Dualmesh had less adherence compared with Marlex, Proceed, and Vypro (P<0.05). Conversely, Vypro had a statistically higher adherence (96%, P<0.05) as compared to TiMesh, Ultrapro, Composix E/X, and Parietex Composite. SEM confirmed bacterial adherence to all the mesh types except DualMesh Plus. The ability of a biomaterial to resist infection has an important clinical significance. DualMesh Plus, due to its antimicrobial coating, is the only mesh type of the nine tested that demonstrated a bactericidal property. Standard PTFE (Dualmesh) also had less bacterial adherence. Vypro demonstrated an increase in bacterial adherence; this was possibly due to the multifilament polyglactin 910 weaved within the prolene component of the mesh.
Low-Protein Diets in Renal Disease

End-stage renal disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the U.S. population and a significant contributor to national health-care expenditures. In recent years, a growing body of literature has accumulated from studies in animals and humans to suggest that dietary protein restriction can significantly retard the progression of chronic renal insufficiency. This article reviews the relevant literature and outlines the questions that remain for future investigation.
On the use of single-photon ionization for inorganic surface analysis

A general surface analysis method has been developed based on non-selective photoionization of sputtered or desorbed neutral atoms and molecules above the surface, followed by time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The approach, currently utilizes two main types of ionizing radiation and a variety of desorption probes. For photoionization, coherent untuned sources are used; an intense focused pulsed UV laser beam is used for non-resonant multiphoton ionization to give elemental and limited chemical information, usually used for inorganic analysis; a coherent VUV source is used for single-photon ionization at 118 nm (10.5 eV) produced by frequency tripling of 355 nm light from a Nd:YAG laser. This paper focuses on single-photon ionization for inorganic systems. The desorption probes used are ion, electron, and laser beams as well as thermal desorption. For depth profiling, ion beams are specifically used. Any focused desorption probe beam can provide lateral spatial resolution.
A Proximity-Based Q-Learning Reward Function for Femtocell Networks

Q-learning has become a prominent tool for resource allocation and management in femtocell networks, as it can decrease the time the network takes to determine an allocation of resources by sharing information. The choice of reward function in Q-learning can greatly affect the performance of the Q-learning algorithm in the resource allocation process. In this work, we present a novel reward function for Q-learning that takes into consideration the femtocell proximity to mobile users. Components of the reward function are emphasized and de-emphasized as a function of distance, based on the influence of the agent on each component. In comparison with other methods, the proposed method ensures a certain level of service for the primary user and increases the sum capacity of the network.
Diagnosis of Convective and Mesoscale Motions During Phase IH of Gate.

Abstract Observational evidence from GATE suggests that a significant fraction of precipitation in tropical disturbances over the eastern Atlantic occurs beneath anvil-type mesoscale convective systems that are frequently associated with intense cumulonimbus convection. A diagnostic model is developed that includes heat, moisture and mass transports by both the convective-scale and mesoscale components of these systems. An entraining plume model is used for individual convective-scale elements yielding a spectral distribution of cumulus sizes. Mesoscale downdrafts are modeled using a bulk cloud model. A parameterization links properties of the mesoscale systems to those of associated deep convective-scale (cumulonimbus) clouds. A method based on a subjective comparison of model results to observed cloud cover is used to determine mesoscale downdraft areas in relation to cumulonimbus areas. For this reason only qualitative results derived from application of the theory can be considered reliable. The model...
Effects of temperature and other experimental variables on single molecule vibrational spectroscopy with the scanning tunneling microscope

Inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS) was performed on single molecules with a variable temperature scanning tunneling microscope. The peak intensity, width, position, and line shape of single molecule vibrational spectra were studied as a function of temperature, modulation bias, bias polarity, and tip position for the (C–H,C–D) stretching vibration of acetylene (C2H2,C2D2) on Cu(001). The temperature broadening of vibrational peaks was found to be a consequence of Fermi smearing as in macroscopic IETS. The modulation broadening of vibrational peaks assumed the expected form for IETS. Extrapolation of the peak width to zero temperature and modulation suggested an intrinsic width of ∼4 meV due primarily to instrumental broadening. The inelastic tunneling cross section at negative bias was reduced by a factor of 1.7 for the C–H stretch mode. Low energy modes of other molecules did not show such a reduction. There was no evidence of a tip-induced Stark shift in the peak positions. The spatial var...
The fractal nature of myocardial blood flow emerges from a whole-organ model of arterial network.

Mammalian hearts exhibit a heterogeneous spatial distribution of blood flows, but flows in near-neighbor regions correlate strongly. Also, tracer 15O-water washout after injection into the
Multiple-unit activity from rabbit cerebellar cortex and interpositus nucleus during classical discrimination/reversal eyelid conditioning

Multiple-unit activity was monitored in the hemispheric lobule VI (HVI) and the interpositus nucleus of the cerebellum during classical discrimination and reversal eyelid conditioning in rabbits. During both phases of conditioning similar patterns of activity were observed in lobule HVI: conditioned response (CR)-related activity was present on conditioned stimulus (CS)+trials but not on CS-trials. Activity in the interpositus nucleus differed during the two phases of conditioning. After discrimination training, CR-related activity was present on CS+but not CS-trials. After reversal training, however, only a weak activation of the interpositus nucleus was seen on CS+trials with no activation present on CS-trials. These data suggest that lobule HVI and the interpositus nucleus may play different roles in classical eyelid conditioning.
Accessing Small Inner Working Angles with a Rotating Sub-aperture Nuller

A new approach to high contrast observations near bright stars with a single-aperture telescope is discussed, which is based on the idea of a rotating separated-aperture nulling interferometer. The approach can be described as a rotating sub-aperture nuller, because it nulls two or more sub-apertures within a single telescope's pupil, and uses baseline rotation to modulate the signals from off-axis sources in a manner similar to that of potential space-based nulling interferometers. The sub-aperture beams can be combined in a number of ways, including a fiber nuller and a rotational shearing interferometer. Such a rotating nulling coronagraph has two great advantages. First, it can be used on a ground-based telescope to test signal reconstruction approaches pertinent to potential space-based nulling interferometers. Moreover, it also has the potential to enable ground-based coronagraphic observations of faint off-axis companions very close to bright stars.
A study of the relative merits of three axisymmetric inlets for a hypersonic cruise mission

Turboramjet powered hypersonic aircraft axisymmetric inlet systems using forward translating cowl and centerbody for various air flow characteristics
The clinical and basic pharmacology of mivacurium: a short-acting nondepolarizing benzylisoquinolinium diester neuromuscular blocking drug

Mivacurium is a benzylisoquinolinium diester. The drug is a nondepolarizing relaxant which is hydrolysed by plasma cholinesterase at 70–88% of the rate of suxamethonium. Enzymatic hydrolysis gives the drug its short duration of action. The length of paralysis is about 2-2.5 times that of suxamethonium and one-half to one-third that of the intermediate-acting nondepolarizers. The development of mivacurium represents a collaboration between industrial pharmacologists and chemists at Burroughs Wellcome Co. (USA) and investigators at the Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
Surgical changes of posterior airway space in obstructive sleep apnea.

There are numerous medical and surgical treatment modalities for the management of the sleep apnea patient. Among the medical treatments, weight loss and positive pressure therapy are considered to be the most important. Surgical treatment is directed at increasing the posterior airway space. Among the surgical procedures, tracheostomy, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), and maxillofacial skeletal procedures are the most common. Positive pressure therapy during sleep is considered effective in limiting obstructive events during sleep. Pressure is titrated to the desired value that eliminates upper airway collapse during nocturnal polysomnography; however, despite a reported 65% to 90% compliance rate with positive airway pressure therapy when compliance is assessed by subjective patient reports, long-term compliance is less than optimal when objectively monitored. Kribbs et al [1] used continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines that contained a microprocessor and a monitor that measured actual pressure at the mask for every minute of each 24-hour day for an average of 106 days per patient. Patients were not aware of the monitor inside the CPAP machines. Although 60% of patients claimed to use CPAP nightly, only 16 of 35 (46%) met the criteria for regular use, which was defined as at least 4 hours of CPAP therapy administered on 70% of the days monitored [1]. There is proof that part-time use of CPAP is not satisfactory in controlling obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) [2,3]. Intolerance of CPAP therapy because of poor mask fit, claustrophobia, difficulty with exhaling, air temperature (too cold or too warm), or machine noise as well as the cumbersomeness and inconvenience in general may lead to decreased compliance. Acceptance of treatment may be improved with bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP), although a study published by ReevesHoche and coworkers [4] indicated that in patients who do not accept therapy for home use, compliance is the same for both CPAP and BiPAP systems. Consequently, the option of surgery should be offered to OSA patients who fail to comply with home positive pressure therapy and continue to suffer from heavy snoring, fragmented sleep, excessive daytime somnolence, and cognitive changes.
Changes in Hepatic Cell Junctions Structure During Experimental Necrotizing Enterocolitis: Effect of EGF Treatment

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating disease of premature babies. Previously, we have shown that EGF reduces NEC and that overproduction of hepatic TNF-α is associated with intestinal damage. Leakage of TNF-α may be a consequence of epithelial hepatic cellular junction dysfunction. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in the composition of hepatic tight junctions (TJs) and adherens junctions (AJs). Using an established rat model of NEC, animals were divided into the following groups: dam fed (DF), formula fed (NEC), or fed with formula supplemented with EGF (EGF). Serum EGF and histologic localization of major TJ and AJ proteins were evaluated. Distribution patterns of hepatic TJ and AJ proteins were significantly altered in the NEC group compared with those in DF or EGF groups. Cytoplasmic accumulation of occludin, claudin-2, and ZO-1 with reduction of claudin-3 signal was detected in the liver of NEC rats. Localization of β-catenin was associated with the hepatocyte membrane in EGF and DF groups, but diffused in the NEC group. These data show that hepatic cellular junctions are significantly altered during NEC pathogenesis. EGF-mediated reduction of experimental NEC is associated with protection of hepatic integrity and structure.