cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stability of interfaces in explosively-welded aluminum-titanium laminates

Aluminum (6061)/titanium (6-4) laminates were produced by single-shot explosive-welding for applications requiring light-weight structures [1]. Strengthening obtained with these laminates is a combination of shock-induced hardening and the presence of well-adhered interfaces in the composite. The interfaces are stronger than, at least, the weaker component of the laminate [2]. The thicknesses of the aluminum and titanium sheets were in the range 0.508 to 1.600 millimeters. Strengths as high as 825 MPa were achieved, depending on the relative amounts of aluminum and titanium [1]. Planar (straight) interfaces were assured in the laminates, since a wavy configuration would possibly be accompanied by excessive heat generation and an attendant intermetallic formation resulting in weaker interfaces [3]. Response surface methodology [4], a combination of statistical and mathematical techniques, was used to investigate the relationship among the mechanical properties (yield strength) and two design variables, volume percentage of the more ductile component (Al) and abundance of interfaces (or interfacial density). A second-order model was fitted from a central composite design, which comprised nine different combinations of three levels of design variable [1]. At these relatively large thicknesses, the dominant strengthening mechanism was expected to be hardening produced by shock-wave passage. The fitted secondorder model, which employs aluminum content and interfacial density as indicators of strengthening by shock-waves and by the Koehler mechanism [5], respectively, is also in good agreement with this expectation. The fitted second-order model in terms of coded variable was determined as:
Discussion: Neopallial Wall

The methods which were used in this study (Astrom and Webster 1990) have allowed us to examine whole brains of fetal rats in an early period of development (E11–13) and to use light and electron microscopy for studies of well-preserved cells within selected areas of the pallial wall. During this time period the selected regions (the neopallial wall and the area choroidea) have the same basic structure, which is that of a pseudostratified neuroepithelium. Like authors of previous studies, we found that the neuroepithelial cells are radially oriented and have an asymmetrical shape (His 1889; Sauer 1935b). They are joined by junctional complexes near the ventricles (Duncan 1957), they extend through the wall to the pial surface where the outer ends are covered by a basal lamina, and they have cytoskeletons composed of axial microtubules and microfilaments (Lyser 1964, 1968; Herman and Kauffman 1966). We have also confirmed previous observations on the fine anatomy of the columnar/radial glial cells in the telencephalic wall of mice (Meller et al. 1966; Hinds and Ruffett 1971; Choi 1988), in rats (Matsuyama et al. 1973; Peters and Feldman 1973; Rickmann and Wolff 1985), and in rabbits (Stensaas and Stensaas 1968). Earlier studies are concerned mainly with the radial glial cells which appear during the period of neuronal migration. This project is different in that it deals only with the columnar cells which are seen in the preneuronal period.
Suburban gardening in Rochester, New York: Exotic plant preference and risk of invasion

Abstract Horticulture has long been an important source of exotic plant species that may naturalize and become invasive. To analyze the extent of exotic plant species and their possible preference in modern landscaping in Rochester, New York, USA, we inventoried 101 randomly chosen suburban (peri-urban) house gardens. On average, 72% of plants per property were not native to the Eastern United States. Of the exotic species present in gardens, 44% have naturalized in New York State. Additionally, invasive plants were often intentionally planted, such as Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii), which was found in nearly half of the gardens. We also sought to ascertain if garden diversity could be correlated with the age, size, or cost of properties. Although our findings were not as distinct as previous garden inventories, property size and mortgage value correlated positively with species richness. Overall, landscape trends across all property types favored exotic over native garden plants.
Threshold Friction Velocity Influenced by the Crust Cover of Soils in the Columbia Plateau

Soil crusts provide stability and protection against wind erosion from semiarid and arid lands. Although erosion is initiated when the friction velocity (U*) exceeds the threshold friction velocity (U*ₜ) of soils, there is little information available on the effect of soil crust cover on U*ₜ. The objective of this study was therefore to evaluate the effect of soil crust cover on the U*ₜ of five loessial soils of the Columbia Plateau, United States. Soil samples were sieved and the erodible fraction was placed in 1 by 0.2 by 0.015 m trays. Water drops 4.5 mm in diameter were applied to the soil surface at a known density, which, after drying, created various percentages of crust cover. The trays were placed inside a wind tunnel to assess U*ₜ. which was determined by systematically wind speed until an increase was observed in total suspended particulate concentration inside the tunnel. No significant differences in U*ₜ were found among 0, 15, and 30% cover but significant differences in U*ₜ were found between 60 and 100% cover. The U*ₜ of 100% crust cover was about twice that of 0% cover. Crust crushing energy, which influences abrasion, did not vary across crust cover treatments. The Single-event Wind Erosion Evaluation Program (SWEEP) revealed the similar influence of crust cover on U*ₜ. The SWEEP adequately simulated U*ₜ for 0, 15, and 30% crust cover but overestimated U*ₜ for 60 and 100% cover. These results suggest that crusts effectively protect the soil from wind erosion by increasing U*ₜ.
The Pentagon's Program of IR&D: The Need for Reform.

The taxpayers are spending one billion dollars a year, most of it on major defense contractors, for a program lacking in accountability, close evaluation and assured relevance to the military effort; Congress should act now to reassert control
STAMPEDE: A Discrete-Optimization Method for Solving Pathwise-Inverse Kinematics

We present a discrete-optimization technique for finding feasible robot arm trajectories that pass through provided 6-DOF Cartesian-space end-effector paths with high accuracy, a problem called pathwise-inverse kinematics. The output from our method consists of a path function of joint-angles that best follows the provided end-effector path function, given some definition of “best”. Our method, called Stampede, casts the robot motion translation problem as a discrete-space graph-search problem where the nodes in the graph are individually solved for using non-linear optimization; framing the problem in such a way gives rise to a well-structured graph that affords an effective best path calculation using an efficient dynamic-programming algorithm. We present techniques for sampling configuration space, such as diversity sampling and adaptive sampling, to construct the search-space in the graph. Through an evaluation, we show that our approach performs well in finding smooth, feasible, collision-free robot motions that match the input end-effector trace with very high accuracy, while alternative approaches, such as a state-of-the-art per-frame inverse kinematics solver and a global non-linear trajectory-optimization approach, performed unfavorably.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is being increasingly utilized for treatment of severe symptomatic aortic stenosis in inoperable, high-risk, and intermediate-risk patients and is being studied in low-risk patients. This review summarizes the patient selection, risk stratification, available percutaneous valves, future devices, and directions in this field.
You, Me, and IoT: How Internet-Connected Home Devices Affect Interpersonal Relationships

Recent press articles have reported that Internet-connected consumer "IoT" devices can impact interpersonal relationships among home residents and visitors. However, academic research into the variety and extent of these effects remains limited. In this study, we conduct semi-structured interviews with individuals from multi-occupant households in order to understand how home IoT devices have affected their relationships. Our results will illustrate the interpersonal costs and benefits of home IoT devices and inform recommendations for the design of future IoT technologies.
Evaluating Flipped versus Face-to-Face Classrooms in Middle School on Science Achievement and Student Perceptions.

The purpose of this study was to compare how face-to-face instruction and flipped learning differed in terms of student achievement in seventh grade science classes, as well as to assess how students who were in the flipped classroom felt about their experiences. A total of 81 students received face-to-face instruction, and 73 received flipped instruction. All students completed pre- and post-assessments. Additionally, students in the flipped classroom completed a survey to assess perceptions of their experiences with the flipped model. Analysis of variance results showed no differences in performance between the two groups of students. There were also no interactions between instructional method with both gender and ability. The student survey data showed that the majority of students enjoyed the flipped model. Large percentages of students reported increased engagement and motivation under the flipped model. In conclusion, we found that flipped instruction was as effective as face-to-face instruction.
Abstract 111: Cdk5 is Associated in Cardiac Calcium Channelopathy

Cardiac calcium channels play important roles in hearts. Mutations in CaV1.2 channels are associated with cardiac arrhythmias including long QT syndrome type 8 (LQTS8). Using human induced pluripot...
Delayed Initiation of Remdesivir in a COVID-19-Positive Patient.

We present a case of late initiation of remdesivir antiviral therapy in the successful treatment of a patient with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in a mixed medical intensive care unit of a community teaching hospital. A previously healthy 40-year-old man was admitted to the hospital 3 days after the onset of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms including dry cough, fever, and shortness of breath progressing to intubation and increased mechanical ventilator support. A request for compassionate use remdesivir was submitted on the same hospital day as the positive COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction result. Supportive measures, in addition to a 5-day course of hydroxychloroquine, were maintained until remdesivir could be supplied on day 9 of hospitalization, 13 days after symptom onset. Sixty hours after initiating remdesivir, the patient was successfully extubated and able to transition to room air within 24 hours of extubation. Late initiation of remdesivir may be effective in treating SARS-CoV-2, unlike antivirals utilized for different disease states, such as oseltamivir, that are most effective when started as soon as possible following symptom onset. Urgent action is needed by regulatory agencies to work with drug manufacturers to expedite the study and approval of investigational agents targeting SARS-CoV-2 as well as to meet manufacturing demands.
Lorentz and CPT Tests with Exotic Atoms, Clocks, and Other Systems

Signals for Lorentz violation in atomic spectroscopy experiments, clock-comparison experiments, and spin-precession experiments are presented. The differences in the signals associated with minimal and nonminimal Lorentz-violating fermion terms are discussed.
The Hierarchical Structure of Attitudes Toward the Exceptional

The structure of attitudes toward the exceptional was investigated using hierarchical factor analysis. The subjects were 132 men and 132 women college students who completed a 78 item social distance questionnaire (6 interpersonal situation and 13 categories of exceptionality-nonexceptionality). The results revealed a general factor concerning attitudes toward the disabled. This factor represented a common core of attitudes which cut across categories of disability and interpersonal situation. The general facto was differentiated into attitudes toward the physically disabled (with certain special emphases), attitudes toward the psychologically disabled, and attitudes toward the mildly retarded-nonexceptional. The last named factor was particularly provocative, indicating that, except for the closest interpersonal relationships (marriage and acceptance as close kin by marriage), the mildly retarded shared in the same configuration of attitudes as are held toward the nonexceptional. Attitudes toward the gif...
Maternal control and children’s internalizing and externalizing symptoms in the context of neighbourhood safety: moderating and mediating models

While there are strong associations between parenting and children’s well-being, it is important to understand these relations in different home environments. This study examined relations of two p...
Spin-orbit-enhanced magnetic surface second-harmonic generation in Sr 2 Ir O 4

An anomalous optical second-harmonic generation (SHG) signal was previously reported in ${\mathrm{Sr}}_{2}\mathrm{Ir}{\mathrm{O}}_{4}$ and attributed to a hidden odd-parity bulk magnetic state. Here we investigate the origin of this SHG signal using a combination of bulk magnetic susceptibility, magnetic-field-dependent SHG rotational anisotropy, and overlapping wide-field SHG imaging and atomic force microscopy measurements. We find that the anomalous SHG signal exhibits a twofold rotational symmetry as a function of in-plane magnetic field orientation that is associated with a crystallographic distortion. We also show a change in SHG signal across step edges that tracks the bulk antiferromagnetic stacking pattern. While we do not rule out the existence of hidden order in ${\mathrm{Sr}}_{2}\mathrm{Ir}{\mathrm{O}}_{4}$, our results altogether show that the anomalous SHG signal in parent ${\mathrm{Sr}}_{2}\mathrm{Ir}{\mathrm{O}}_{4}$ originates instead from a surface-magnetization-induced electric-dipole process that is enhanced by strong spin-orbit coupling.
Short-term impacts to the soil microbial population during grassland conversion to cropland

Abstract Land use conversion from grassland to cropland places unique constraints on ecosystem services and sustainability across the United States. In the northern Great Plains, this process is acute with marginal lands continuously cycling in and out of production. As this trend continues, it remains unclear what the short-term impacts of intermittent cropping are to soil biological properties. This study examines the short-term response of soil microbial biomass and activity during grassland conversion to cropland using conventional tillage (CT) and no-till (NT) practices in comparison to a grassland control. Long-term grassland was converted to cropland for three consecutive years. Following crop harvest, soil samples were gathered to measure the ‘first-year’ impacts to microbial biomass and enzyme activity (beta-glucosidase [BG], beta-glucosaminidase [BGA] and phosphomonoesterase [PHOS]). Conversion of grassland to small grain production did not produce a statistically significant trend for total microbial biomass or bacterial biomass. However, there were strong environmental effects due to yearly fluctuations in precipitation on total microbial biomass, total bacterial biomass and total fungal biomass. The effect of land conversion via CT on fungal biomass was strong and resulted in decreased fungal to bacterial biomass ratios. CT significantly decreased fungal populations over both the grassland and NT by 29 %. All three enzyme activities in the top 7.5 cm were significantly reduced by land conversion via CT during the study year with the highest precipitation. On average, BG and BGA activity in the CT plots were approximately 20 % lower than either the grassland or NT plots. Phosphomonoesterase activity under CT was significantly decreased by 28 % and 18 % compared to grassland and NT, respectively. In the 7.5–15 cm depth interval, BG and BGA activities in the grassland control and NT plots showed vertical stratification, with the CT plots having the highest BG and BGA activities with higher precipitation. There was no effect of land conversion on PHOS activity at the 7.5–15 cm depth. Significant declines in soil microbial biomass and enzyme activity may occur in the first year of grassland conversion to cropland, particularly with tillage, implying reduced C and nutrient cycling potentials. These effects were the strongest for fungal biomass and occurred under conditions of higher precipitation in the semi-arid study site.
Social Work Students' Perceptions of Poverty

Over a period of 14 years (1991-2004), graduate social work students (n = 2,213) in ten California schools were surveyed about their perceptions of poverty as they entered and exited their graduate programs. Entering students expressed preferences for societal/institutional change methods to address poverty, as opposed to methods of individual adaptation and were even more inclined upon graduation. Implications for social work education and practice are identified.
Adaptive low-order posi-cast control of a combustor test-rig model

Recently, an adaptive posi-cast controller has been developed for dynamic systems with large time-delays. In this paper, we evaluate its performance in the context of a 4 MW combustor test-rig model that mimics many of the dynamic characteristics of an actual engine including a significant time-delay. Using closed loop input-output data and system identification, a model of the test-rig was derived. Using this model, adaptive posi-cast controllers were designed and detailed numerical simulation studies were carried out. These studies include: (1) the closed-loop performance of the adaptive controller, (2) comparison of the adaptive controller with an empirical phase-shift controller, (3) robustness with respect to parametric uncertainties, (4) robustness with respect to unmodeled dynamics and uncertain delays, (5) performance in the presence of noise, and (6) effect of saturation constraints on the control input amplitude. These studies show that the adaptive posi-cast controllers decrease pressure oscillations much faster than the phase-shift controller without generating peak splitting. It also showed that the adaptive controller was capable of stabilizing the plant in the presence of 20% change in the resonant frequency, an order of magnitude change in the damping ratio, and unmodeled dynamics. The studies showed that the performance of the adaptive controller improved as the magnitude of the saturation constraints on the control input increased.
Thin Walls Tell the Tale

Planktonic foraminifera have been used to deduce past temperature, chemistry, and circulation of the ocean. In their Perspective, [Archer and Martin][1] describe another potential use of these versatile proxies of past ocean conditions. [Broecker and Clark][2] use the thickness of their walls to deduce carbonate concentrations in the ocean during the last glacial period. These can in turn provide insights into the ocean's carbon cycle. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/294/5549/2108 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/294/5549/2152
Low arc drop hybrid mode thermionic converter

The hybrid mode operation for the reduction of plasma drops is being investigated. This report discusses the results obtained from two molybdenum emitter converters. One converter had a molybdenum collector and the other a nickel collector. The molybdenum collector converter was operated in a hybrid mode (at an interelectrode distance of 1.7 mm) and produced a minimum barrier index of 1.96 eV at an emitter temperature of 1500 K. The arc drop was calculated to be 0.14 eV, using the published results for a molybdenum collector. On the other hand, the nickel collector converter was operated in a conventional ignited mode (at an interelectrode distance of 0.5 mm) and produced a minimum barrier index of 2.1 eV at an emitter temperature of 1700 K. It is tentatively concluded that a large-gap operation of the hybrid mode converter permits the diffusion of cesium ions to a distance in the order of one millimeter for an effective neutralization of electron space charge. By employing a low work function collector (1.55 eV) in a hybrid mode converter with an arc drop of 0.14 eV, it appears that a barrier index as low as 1.69 eV could be achieved.
A Method for the Colorimetric Determination of β-Glucuronidase in Urine, Serum, Tissue; Assay of Enzymatic Activity in Health and Disease

Summary 1.Methods are presented for the assay of β-glucuronidase activity in urine, serum, tissues. 2.Values are given for serum and urine glucuronidase activity in normal individuals. 3.Serum glucuronidase activity was markedly increased in patients with carcinoma of the head of the pancreas without demonstrable hepatic metastases. Increased urinary activity occurred less frequently. 4.Serum glucuronidase activity was increased in patients with acute pancreatitis and in a significant percentage of those with diabetes mellitus, cardiac decompensation, cancer of the breast. 5.There was no correlation between glucuronidase activity in serum and urine of most patients. 6.Most patients with increased serum glucuronidase activity manifested clinical or laboratory evidence of hepatic dysfunction.
Enforcing emissions trading programs: Theory, practice, and performance

Combining an analysis of the compliance incentives faced by firms in an emissions trading program, a comprehensive review of the enforcement strategies employed in Sulfur Dioxide Allowance and the Regional Clean Air Incentives Market (RECLAIM) programs, and a review of the compliance performance of these programs thus far, we are able to propose several practical guidelines for enforcing emissions trading programs. We stress the importance of prevailing market prices for emissions permits in determining compliance incentives, the importance of accurately measuring firms' emissions, and the importance of implementing enforcement strategies that remove the incentives firms may have to falsify emissions reports.
Only Visual Impressions are Almost Always Present in Long-Term Memories, and Reported Completeness, Accuracy, and Verbalizability of Recollections Increase with Age:

In two studies, students answered questions about their earliest memories from childhood and either elementary school and high school or college and yesterday. Visual sensory impressions were present in all childhood and almost all later memories. Sound aspects were more frequent in memories from high school and college than in those from childhood. Earliest memories from yesterday almost always included internal sensations. Recollections were rated as more accurate, complete, and verbalizable as events occurred later in life. Memories from childhood, elementary, and high school were thought about, found useful, or shared equally frequently. Yesterday's events were less likely shared, but, if shared, enhanced social relationships.
In vitro degradation of bovine myofibrils is caused by μ-calpain, not caspase-3

Tenderness is a key palatability trait influencing perception of consumers of meat quality and is influenced by a multitude of factors, including postmortem proteolysis. A fundamental understanding of this biological mechanism regulating tenderness is necessary to decrease variability and increase consumer satisfaction. However, reports regarding the enzyme systems involved in postmortem tenderization are conflicting. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine if caspase-3 is responsible for the degradation of myofibrillar proteins during aging. Bovine semitendinosus muscles were removed from 2 carcasses. Muscle from the left side of each carcass was excised 20 min postmortem and utilized for in vitro analysis of protein degradation. Muscle strips were dissected from the semitendinosus, restrained to maintain length, and placed in a neutral buffer containing protease inhibitors. Upon rigor completion, myofibrils were isolated from each strip and sarcomere length was determined. Samples with similar sarcomere lengths were selected to minimize the effect of sarcomere length on proteolysis. Myofibrils were then incubated at 22°C with μ-calpain, caspase-3, or μ-calpain + caspase-3 for 0.25, 1, 3, 24, 48, or 72 h at optimum pH for enzyme activity. The semitendinosus from the right side of each carcass was excised 1 d postmortem, cut into 2.54-cm steaks, vacuum-packaged, and allowed to age for 2, 4, 7, or 10 d to evaluate normal protein degradation during beef aging. Proteolysis of troponin T, α-actinin, and desmin was monitored using SDS-PAGE and Western blotting techniques, whereas proteolysis of titin and nebulin was monitored using SDS-vertical agarose gel electrophoresis and Western blotting. Analysis of Western blots revealed no change in abundance of intact troponin T, desmin, titin, or nebulin over time in myofibrils incubated with caspase-3. However, abundance of these proteins subjected to digestion with μ-calpain and μ-calpain + caspase-3 revealed degradation patterns similar to in situ samples. No degradation of α-actinin was observed in in vitro or in situ samples. Results of this study indicate μ-calpain, not caspase-3, is responsible for the degradation of key myofibrillar proteins during beef aging.
The sympathetic control of blood pressure

The sympathetic nervous system is an important regulator of blood pressure. Guyenet describes the central control regions that influence the activity of sympathetic efferent neurons and their potential contribution to neurogenic hypertension. Hypertension — the chronic elevation of blood pressure — is a major human health problem. In most cases, the root cause of the disease remains unknown, but there is mounting evidence that many forms of hypertension are initiated and maintained by an elevated sympathetic tone. This review examines how the sympathetic tone to cardiovascular organs is generated, and discusses how elevated sympathetic tone can contribute to hypertension.
In Situ Resonance Raman Spectroscopic Characterization of Electrogenerated Methyl Viologen Radical Cation on Carbon Electrode

In situ Raman spectroscopic characterization of solution and surface species on a carbon electrode is reported. An optical flow-through cell has been designed for the characterization of electrode surfaces and electrogenerated solution species during an electrochemical reaction. The electrogeneration of the methyl viologen (1,1'-dimethyl-4,4'-bipyridine) radical cation (MV+) at a carbon electrode in aqueous chloride solution has been studied with the use of laser Raman spectroscopy. In the case of the radical ion, resonance enhancement of the order of 25-30 was observed with 514.5 nm excitation. The effect of concentration, potential, and flow rate on the observed spectrum is discussed. Time-dependent studies with optical multichannel analyzer detection suggest the formation of a multilayer film on the electrode.
Soft X-ray photoemission study of the silicon-fluorine etching reaction

High resolution soft X-ray photoemission spectra of Si(111) surfaces subjected to steady-state etching are reported. The reaction is shown to proceed via the formation of a thick, highly fluorinated reaction layer, dominated by trifluorosilyl moieties. In addition, SiF4, the major reaction product has been observed in the spectra, indicating that it may be trapped within the reaction layer. The implications of these measurements for previously proposed reaction mechanisms are discussed.
Selective androgen insensitivity of hepatic drug-metabolizing enzymes in senescent mice

The normal sexual dimorphism in murine hepatic hexobarbital metabolism (i.e. females greater than males) was found to be absent in senescent animals. Hexobarbital metabolism, expressed as microsomal activity of hexobarbital hydroxylase and hexobarbital-induced sleep time, in senescent male mice was similar to that in females, but significantly greater than that found in young adult males. No age-related changes in hexobarbital metabolism were observed in intact females. In addition, experiments involving gonadectomies and testosterone administration indicated that both male and female senescent mice were insensitive to the normally repressive effects of androgens on hexobarbital hydroxylase. In contrast, the sexual dimorphism in the activity of p-nitrophenol UDP-glucuronosyltransferase was maintained in the senescent mice as well as the usual responsiveness to testosterone regulation. Furthermore, the growth-promoting effects of androgen on the kidneys and seminal vesicles were similarly expressed in young and old mice. Thus, our results suggest the development of an age-dependent and selective insensitivity of hexobarbital hydroxylase to androgenic regulation in the aging mouse.
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a minimally invasive procedure that enables en bloc resection of even large superficial tumors in the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. It provides a high accuracy of histological analysis and a reduced recurrence rate. It was initially developed in Japan and then popularized throughout Asia. Experience in the Western World, however, is still limited, and ESD is performed in only a few select centers. Current issues are low volume of cases to start the ESD program, no description of ideal training programs, and a few published reports from the West proving its superiority over the conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or piecemeal EMR. Here, the authors discuss the clinical indications and proposed benefit, the training required to perform ESD, the equipment and techniques required for successful ESD, and finally, the future directions of ESD.
Capacitance probe measurements of brine volume and bulk salinity in first-year sea ice

Abstract First-year sea ice plays an important role in the global climate system. It changes the physical properties of the surface of the polar oceans, and modifies the energy and mass transfer between the ocean and the atmosphere. An understanding of the way sea ice affects ocean–atmosphere exchange requires detailed knowledge of the evolution of ice physical properties, which are governed by its temperature and bulk salinity. To this effect, we assessed the utility of commercially available capacitance probes in determining the salinity evolution of first-year sea ice. Measurements of the complex dielectric permittivity, e = e ′ − ie ″, at 50 MHz were carried out in land-fast ice in McMurdo Sound, Antarctica, and in the Chukchi Sea near Barrow, Alaska. For comparison, we also deployed the probes in artificial, young sea ice in an outdoor tank experiment in Fairbanks, AK. The dielectric permittivity data compare well with predictions from a dielectric mixture model. We have derived a simple relation that allows for the derivation of brine volume fraction and bulk salinity in columnar first-year sea ice from the real part of the complex dielectric permittivity. For ice at temperatures below the percolation threshold, the error in the derived bulk salinity is less than 15%. The dependence of dielectric permittivity on brine inclusion morphology needs to be taken into consideration, and measurements indicate that changes in pore morphology are recorded in the capacitance measurements. In this paper we use the real part, e ′, of the complex dielectric permittivity to study the bulk salinity of bubble-free columnar ice. Further investigations, using the imaginary part of the complex dielectric permittivity, e ″, will make it possible to use the same probes to measure the bulk salinity and pore morphology of other types of ice, e.g., frazil, platelet, and multi-year ice.
An Adaptive Sampling Solution using Autonomous Underwater Vehicles

Abstract To achieve efficient and cost-effective sensing coverage of the vast under-sampled 3D aquatic volume, intelligent adaptive sampling strategies involving Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) endowed with underwater wireless (acoustic) communication capabilities are essential. These AUVs should coordinate and steer through the region of interest, and cooperatively sense, preprocess and transmit measured data to onshore stations for processing and analysis. Given a scalar field to sample, i.e, a phenomenon like temperature or salinity distribution, the AUVs should coordinate to take measurements using minimal resources (time or energy) in order to reconstruct the field with admissible error. A novel adaptive sampling solution to minimize the sampling cost is proposed, which requires the AUVs to take a small number of samples from the field. We observe via simulations that our solution outperforms existing solutions that are based on Compressive Sensing (CS) techniques.
Transformation of surface plasmon polaritons by surface structures

We present a new, simple, planar structure that effects the all-angle negative refraction of a surface plasmon polariton incident on it. We also predict a step-wise increase in the frequency dependence of the transmissivity of a surface plasmon polariton propagating through a slit of finite length on a planar metal surface at each frequency at which an infinitely long slit can support an additional guided wave polariton.
Validation of a new strength measurement device for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis clinical trials

Introduction: Strength measures with reduced variability and higher sensitivity could improve efficiency in clinical trials of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The Accurate Test of Limb Isometric Strength (ATLIS) was developed to precisely and conveniently measure force in 12 muscle groups. In this study we evaluate the reliability and validity of the ATLIS testing protocol. Methods: Twenty healthy adults and 10 patients with ALS were tested twice by the same or by different evaluators to determine test–retest and interrater reliability. Twenty healthy adults were examined using ATLIS and a well-validated strength testing protocol (TQNE) to assess criterion-based validity. Results: Mean absolute variation between tests was 8.6%, and intraclass correlation coefficients for each muscle group were high (range 0.82–0.99). The Pearson correlation coefficient of mean ATLIS and TQNE scores was 0.90. A subject survey demonstrated high user acceptance of ATLIS. Conclusions: ATLIS is convenient for patients and evaluators, produces precise strength measurements, and is easily moved between examining rooms. Muscle Nerve 45: 81–85, 2012
Platinum nanoclusters immobilized on polymer-clay nanocomposite films

Abstract A 40-μm-thick, self-supporting, transparent film was obtained upon slowly evaporating an aqueous mixture of synthetic hectorite, Pt(NH3)2Cl2, and polyethylene oxide (PEO). The resulting film containing 2.4 wt.% platinum was then reduced under H2 at 150 °C for 2–4 h, turning black upon reduction. XRD shows development of Pt(0) by the appearance of crystalline peaks upon reduction. A lineshape analysis using the Scherrer equation of the (220) peak shows Pt(0) particles from 3.8 nm to 7.5 nm depending upon processing conditions. These values are confirmed by TEM, and a high dispersion of the metal throughout the matrix is evident. XRD and TGA confirm that PEO is stable to the processing conditions. In situ small-angle X-ray scattering measurements of the reduction process were also performed. Under an inert, non-reducing atmosphere, the shape of the scattering curve does not change as the temperature is raised from 30 °C to 150 °C. Analysis of the scattering curves using the general unified fit (GUF) equation yields one Rg value of 80 A from 30 to 150 °C under He, which is assumed to arise from the overall film morphology. Under H2, however, the shape of the scattering curves visually changes between 100 and 120 °C. Two structural levels are needed to fit these curves at moderate temperatures in the GUF equation, with two subsequent Rg values. One of these Rg values corresponds to the film morphology (Rg = 80–90 A), while the other has an Rg = 18–19 A with a corresponding diameter of 4.8–5.1 nm. This latter Rg is assumed to arise from the reduced Pt(0) nanoparticles that form in situ during reduction.
‘Mundus imago Dei est’: The Spirituality of the Emblematist of the French Renaissance

This study explores the constitutive principle of Mundus imago Dei est in the work of emblematists representative of both Catholic and Protestant traditions in France in the late sixteenth- and early seventeenth-centuries. Examples selected have been militant (Georgette de Montenay), philosophical (Jean-Baptiste Chassignet), and devotional (Jean de La Ceppede). The aim is to discover common rhetorical strategies of an aesthetic in the service of faith. Qualities and features derived from the Augustinian tradition are demonstrated. Further, apparent disharmony of images is shown to yield to harmony of thought.
A modified fluorometric method for the determination of microgram quantities of DNA from cell or tissue cultures.

Abstract Incubation of up to 8 μg of DNA with 30 mg DABA at 60°C for 30 min are the optimal conditions for development of fluorescence with DNA. At lower levels of DABA the time of incubation became crucial, and linearity at low DNA concentrations was lost. Application of the method to the estimation of DNA extracted with either 1 n KOH or 1 n PCA from monolayer cell cultures showed that fluorescence could still be developed satisfactorily in the presence of the alkali or acid without neutralizing or drying the sample, thus saving considerable time with no loss of accuracy or reproducibility of the assay, but with some loss of sensitivity.
Synthesis and characterization of LaxSr1−xCuO2-δ thin films

Abstract La doped thin films with the infinite-layer structure were grown on SrTiO3 and MgO substrates. The structure and the electrical properties of the films were studied. The experimental results suggest a high defect concentration and p-type doping.
Integration of renewable energy: Managing renewables in power markets

Since renewable energy is well known as a clean source of power, the incentive for providers and customers to join the renewable energy boom is coming in different ways. Under the forcing policy, the wind generation will be guaranteed to be purchased in the wholesale market if wind generators bid at their marginal price. However, a forcing policy may lead to infeasibility if wind spillage is not allowed. The numerical results in this paper show that integrating more wind generation may lead to market inefficiency or more greenhouse gas emissions, e.g. CO 2 . To test this hypothesis a deterministic unit commitment was solved by AMPL by modeling power markets and calculating operating costs. With the consideration of the start-up costs and ramping emissions, the cost of emissions is compensated by the generators.
Effect of study criteria on recruitment and generalizability of the results

Objective:Clinical trials are indispensable to drug approval process. This research examined the effect of a specific study criteria on recruitment and generalizability of the results.Methods:The following were reviewed: (a) the usual inclusion and exclusion criteria for the antipsychotic trials per
Hybrid laser beam steerer for laser communications applications

Omniwrist is a new sensor mount developed under the Air Force funding that emulates the kinematics of a human wrist. Driven by two linear motors and equipped with a dedicated computer implementing advanced control laws, it is capable of a full 180° hemisphere of pitch/yaw motion and demonstrates performance characteristics comparable with an electro-mechanical beam steering system. While exceeding the bandwidth requirements for the coarse beam steering task, Omniwrist’s dynamic response is much slower than the one of the acousto-optic device (Bragg cell) that is virtually inertia-free. At the same time, the steering range of a Bragg cell, ± .5°, is too small for many applications. The authors have been successful in the enhancement of the design and development of control laws improving its dynamic characteristics of a Bragg cell. This paper presents the research aimed at the development of a hybrid laser beam steering system comprising Bragg cells installed on the Omniwrist platform. An optimal control strategy facilitating such applications as scanning, search, rapid repositioning, tracking, feedback and feedforward compensation of environmental vibration of the optical platform (satellite-based and airborne) has been developed, implemented and tested. This includes the solution of such underlying problems as mathematical description of the hybrid system, optimal task distribution between the “coarse” and the “fine” positioning tasks, coordination of the operation of the “coarse” and “fine” system controllers. The efficiency of the developed system in various applications will be investigated further and compared against known designs.
The duality of non-conceptual content in Husserl's phenomenology of perception

Recently, a number of epistemologists have argued that there are no non-conceptual elements in representational content. On their view, the only sort of non-conceptual elements are components of sub-personal organic hardware that, because they enjoy no veridical role, must be construed epistemologically irrelevant. By reviewing a 35-year-old debate initiated by Dagfinn Folledal, I believe Husserlian phenomenology can be updated to offer an important contribution to this discussion. On my interpretation, what Husserl calls “hyletic data” may be read as that subjective quality of experience inarticulable as a propositional attitude – and, thus, hyletic data are non-conceptual. In anticipation of the recent conceptualist position, Follesdal and his adherents argued that what Husserl had called “noema” or representational content is, however, entirely conceptual. A closer inspection of the relevant texts, however, reveals that Husserl admits non-conceptual elements into his characterization of the noema. If that is correct, then Husserl must have been a dualist about non-conceptual content. In turn, I believe what explains this dualism is a non-foundationalist reconstruction of Husserl’s phenomenological reduction.
Adolescent Hopefulness in Tanzania: Street Youth, Former Street Youth, and School Youth

This study compares hope in street youth, former street youth, and school youth (aged 12-18) in Tanzania. Responding to Snyder’s hope theory, the author argues that not only personal agency but also the stability of living context (street, shelter, home) shapes hopefulness. Employing qualitative and quantitative analyses, the author presents a framework that shows considerable differences by youth group in hope conceptualizations. Youth in unstable environments avoid hope to circumvent failure and instead attribute success to luck and other external factors, whereas youth in steadier environments rely on internal resources, seeing themselves as critical agents in engendering hopefulness. Taking youths’ differing living contexts into account, the author proposes a contextual model of hope that consists of "hope instruments," "hope outcomes," and "pathways to hopefulness."
Radiobiological Damage: A New Class Identified in Barley Seeds Stored after Irradiation

A new class of radiobiological damage has been identified in irradiated barley seeds. Consisting of both physiological and genetic damage, it appears to be independent of oxygen and long-lived free radicals, and develops very slowly during storage after irradiation. Increasing the storage temperature accelerates its development.
Infrared and Mössbauer spectroscopy, electron microscopy and chemical reactivity of ferric chloride hydrolysis products

Abstract The products of boiling hydrolysis of ferric chloride solutions have been compared with well-known iron oxide phases by the use of i.r. and Mossbauer spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and chemical reactivity. The product of boiling dilute solutions for a short duration was very similar to the well-known amorphous gel. It appeared to be structurally a mixed phase similar to α-FeOOH and β-FeOOH. Increasing the duration of boiling and the concentration of solutions yielded products which were identified as poorly crystalline α-Fe2O3 and α-FeOOH.
Post-transfusion purpura: initiation by leukocyte-poor red cells in a polytransfused woman.

. An elderly, multiparous, multiply transfused woman developed post-transfusion purpura (PTP) after the transfusion of 2 units of leukocyte-poor red cells and was successfully treated by plasmapheresis and corticosteroids. Her pre-PTP transfusion history was characterized by frequent, multiple transfusions of platelet antigen-containing blood products 12 to 5.5 years prior to the onset of disease and, apart from the initiating transfusion, only frozen red cells in the 5.5 years immediately preceding the onset of thrombocytopenia. Leukocyte-poor red cells thus appear capable of initiating PTP. Use of a few units of frozen red cells may result in a shorter than normal refractory period, after which time PTP may occur upon exposure to sufficient platelet antigen.
Biological Conceptualizations of Mental Disorders Among Affected Individuals: A Review of Correlates and Consequences

Psychopathology is increasingly conceptualized as a biological phenomenon. The consequences of this conceptual shift for the general public's beliefs and attitudes regarding mental illness have been the subject of considerable study, but effects among individuals who suffer from mental disorders have received less attention. This review considers recent observational and experimental studies of the beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors associated with biological conceptions of psychopathology among affected individuals. Included in the review is research that has examined the implications of such conceptualizations for prognostic beliefs, internalization of stigmatizing attitudes, treatment usage and other behaviors and intentions, and perspectives on the use of biomedical technologies in mental health. Potential conclusions, limitations of the existing literature, and considerations for future studies are discussed.
School nurse book clubs: an innovative strategy for lifelong learning.

Recognizing the ongoing need for continuing education for school nurses, the authors discuss the use of school nurse book clubs as an innovative lifelong-learning strategy. Current research support...
Lamb-wave-based feature extraction of damage in a stiffened composite panel under varying temperature

This paper presents a methodology for determining the existence of delaminations in complex composite structures. The changes in damage features due to changing temperature are investigated. A Lamb wave based active damage detection technique is used. The Matching Pursuit Decomposition (MPD), a time frequency based signal processing technique, is used for feature extraction. The signals from two different test structures, a healthy specimen and a specimen with seeded delamination, are compared to incorporate the effect of manufacturing variability. Tests are conducted under varying ambient temperature. The results obtained validate the effectiveness of this approach in detecting delamination.
Experimental canine scabies in humans

Adult female Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis mites were applied to human skin for 96 hours in an experimental chamber. Clinical lesions produced during this period were studied histologically, The organisms burrowed, defecated, and laid up to nine eggs that developed normally. Two eggs hatched after removal from the host. A life cycle was not completed during this short experiment, but these results suggest canine scabies are capable of such activities on human skin.