cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sample interval modulation for the simultaneous acquisition of displacement vector data in magnetic resonance elastography: theory and application

SampLe Interval Modulation-magnetic resonance elastography (SLIM-MRE) is introduced for simultaneously encoding all three displacement projections of a monofrequency vibration into the MR signal phase. In SLIM-MRE, the individual displacement components are observed using different sample intervals. In doing so, the components are modulated with different apparent frequencies in the MR signal phase expressed as a harmonic function of the start time of the motion encoding gradients and can thus be decomposed by applying a Fourier transform to the sampled multidirectional MR phases. In this work, the theoretical foundations of SLIM-MRE are presented and the new idea is implemented using a high field (11.7 T) vertical bore magnetic resonance imaging system on an inhomogeneous agarose gel phantom sample. The local frequency estimation-derived stiffness values were the same within the error margins for both the new SLIM-MRE method and for conventional MRE, while the number of temporally-resolved MRE experiments needed for each study was reduced from three to one. In this work, we present for the first time, monofrequency displacement data along three sensitization directions that were acquired simultaneously and stored in the same k-space.
Genomic Variation of the Fibropapilloma-Associated Marine Turtle Herpesvirus across Seven Geographic Areas and Three Host Species

Fibropapillomatosis (FP) of marine turtles is an emerging neoplastic disease associated with infection by a novel turtle herpesvirus, fibropapilloma-associated turtle herpesvirus (FPTHV). This report presents 23 kb of the genome of an FPTHV infecting a Hawaiian green turtle (Chelonia mydas). By sequence homology, the open reading frames in this contig correspond to herpes simplex virus genes UL23 through UL36. The order, orientation, and homology of these putative genes indicate that FPTHV is a member of the Alphaherpesvirinae. The UL27-, UL30-, and UL34-homologous open reading frames from FPTHVs infecting nine FP-affected marine turtles from seven geographic areas and three turtle species (C. mydas, Caretta caretta, and Lepidochelys olivacea) were compared. A high degree of nucleotide sequence conservation was found among these virus variants. However, geographic variations were also found: the FPTHVs examined here form four groups, corresponding to the Atlantic Ocean, West pacific, mid-Pacific, and east Pacific. Our results indicate that FPTHV was established in marine turtle populations prior to the emergence of FP as it is currently known.
Dietary fat and carbohydrates differentially alter insulin sensitivity during caloric restriction.

Background & Aims We determined the effects of acute and chronic calorie restriction with either a low-fat, high-carbohydrate (HC) diet or a low-carbohydrate (LC) diet on hepatic and skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity. Methods Twenty-two obese subjects (body mass index, 36.5 ± 0.8 kg/m 2 ) were randomized to an HC (>180 g/day) or LC ( Results At 48 hours, IHTG content decreased more in the LC than the HC diet group (29.6% ± 4.8% vs 8.9% ± 1.4%; P P P P P Conclusions Moderate calorie restriction causes temporal changes in liver and skeletal muscle metabolism; 48 hours of calorie restriction affects the liver (IHTG content, hepatic insulin sensitivity, and glucose production), whereas moderate weight loss affects muscle (insulin-mediated glucose uptake and insulin signaling).
An Analysis of the Status of Journals and Research in Psychology from Latin America

Little is known about the breadth and depth of scholarly publishing within the field of psychology and its related disciplines originating from Latin American authors. To better define the subject area, we underwent a data analysis to examine the trends (e.g., status, quantity, and quality of publications) of scholarly publications emanating from Latin America origin (i.e., the location of the primary author). Our findings suggest that there has been a swift and steady increase in the quantity of scholarly publications published by Latin American authors. This increase is marked as 880% between 2001 and 2013, with a slight increase in the number of International as opposed to Regional publications. This study reveals that scholarly publications originating from Latin America are on the rise, with anticipated future growth.
Extracorporeal life support for severe adult respiratory failure.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The past 35 years have provided a wealth of evidence that mechanical ventilation, although potentially life saving, can injure the lungs. Recent evidence suggests that limiting ventilating gas volumes can reduce patient mortality, but may result in progressive parenchymal derecruitment and alveolar hypoventilation, potentially aggravating systemic hypercarbia and hypoxemia. This review summarizes the current recommendations on a controversial, invasive technique termed 'extracorporeal life support' as a means to provide temporary pulmonary support during 'lung-protective' strategies. RECENT FINDINGS: Extracorporeal life support has been implemented since the origins of cardiopulmonary bypass in the 1950s, but differs in several important ways from cardiopulmonary bypass, including its prolonged duration of application. Because extracorporeal life support serves only to supplement physiological derangements and is not therapeutic, patient selection critically impacts results. Whereas reversible neonatal processes such as meconium aspiration and persistent fetal circulation have fostered clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of extracorporeal life support, adult cardiopulmonary failure extracorporeal life support trials have proved less compelling. Despite two prospective randomized trials that failed to demonstrate its efficacy, adult extracorporeal life support continues in limited centers of excellence. Adult extracorporeal life support survival rates for respiratory failure average 50% when strict criteria are met, but it remains unclear whether these results represent improved outcomes. SUMMARY: Extracorporeal life support is an invasive technique that can provide support to the failing lung. Clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy in neonatal and pediatric patients, but data in adults are less clear. An ongoing trial in the UK will soon address this important issue.
Octupole-octupole residual interactions and low-lying 0/sup +/ excited states in the isotopes /sup 232/U, /sup 234/U, and /sup 236/U

Solutions applicable for all interaction strengths are obtained for a schematic Hamiltonian with pairing forces and particle-hole octupole-octupole forces. The method is applied to the light U isotopes. Adjusting the particle-hole interaction strength to the measured K/sup ..pi../ = 0/sup -/ excitation energies leads to an immediate explanation for the low-lying 0/sup +/ excited states in this region.
On Rearrangements of the Alternating Harmonic Series

(1985). On Rearrangements of the Alternating Harmonic Series. The College Mathematics Journal: Vol. 16, No. 2, pp. 135-138.
Esthesioneuroblastoma with bilateral metastases to the parotid glands.

Background Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is a rare, poorly characterized, intranasal cancer arising from olfactory neuroepithelium. Methods This case report reviews the underlying pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and diagnosis of primary ENB and parotid metastases. Results We present the case of a 43-year-old man who was referred to our practice with radiographically and biopsy confirmed ENB. After neoadjuvant chemotherapy, radiation, and open surgical resection, he returned to the clinic 30 months postoperatively with a right parotid mass, which was found to be a recurrence of his primary cancer. A parotidectomy was performed; however, he returned 10 months later with a new left parotid mass. Subsequent imaging and biopsy confirmed recurrence of ENB and a second parotidectomy was performed. Conclusion This case illustrates that delayed metastases in the setting of ENB are not limited to the cervical lymph nodes and, in rare instances, may involve the parotid glands. Surveillance should include the parotid lymph node basin with a high clinical index of suspicion in the setting of parotid lymphadenopathy after primary surgical therapy. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2016
Effect of anesthetics and collection time on corticosteroid secretion by rat adrenal.

SummarySecretion of corticosterone into the adrenal venous effluent of the rat was markedly influenced during the first 10 minutes of collection by the nature of the anesthetic employed for cannula...
Neuronal remapping and circuit persistence in economic decisions

The orbitofrontal cortex plays a central role in good-based economic decisions. When subjects make choices, neurons in this region represent the identities and values of offered and chosen goods. Notably, choices in different behavioral contexts may involve a potentially infinite variety of goods. Thus a fundamental question concerns the stability versus flexibility of the decision circuit. Here we show in rhesus monkeys that neurons encoding the identity or the subjective value of particular goods in a given context 'remap' and become associated with different goods when the context changes. At the same time, the overall organization of the decision circuit and the function of individual cells remain stable across contexts. In particular, two neurons supporting the same decision in one context also support the same decision in different contexts. These results demonstrate how the same neural circuit can underlie economic decisions involving a large variety of goods.
AIDS knowledge in minorities: significance of locus of control.

A convenience sample of 587 subjects from the community bealth centers of Harris County, Texas, completed a structured interview that included questions on knowledge of AIDS transmission and prevention and on the Wallston Health Locus of Control (HLOC) Scale. HLOC score was a strong independent predictor of AIDS knowledge, with high externality associated with less knowledge. In a regression equation predicting AIDS knowledge, HLOC contributed 3% of the variance after education and ethnicity were accounted for. Hispanic and black individuals had a higher external orientation than white individuals. These findings suggest the need to address personal beliefs and perceptions concerning risk and to consider HLOC when educating patients and the public about AIDS.
In Vitro Studies of Membrane Permeability Induced by Amyloidogenic Polypeptides Using Large Unilamellar Vesicles

The process of amyloid formation is cytotoxic and contributes to a wide range of human diseases, but the mechanisms of amyloid-induced cytotoxicity are not well understood. It has been proposed that amyloidogenic peptides exert their toxic effects by damaging membranes. Membrane disruption is clearly not the only mechanism of toxicity, but the literature suggests that loss of membrane integrity may be a contributing factor. In this chapter we describe the measurement of in vitro membrane leakage induced by amyloidogenic proteins via the use of model vesicles. We use islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP, amylin) as an example, but the methods are general.
Modular Peptide Amphiphile Micelles Improving an Antibody-Mediated Immune Response to Group A Streptococcus

Inducing a strong and specific immune response is the hallmark of a successful vaccine. Nanoparticles have emerged as promising vaccine delivery devices to discover and elicit immune responses. Fine-tuning a nanoparticle vaccine to create an immune response with specific antibody and other cellular responses is influenced by many factors such as shape, size, and composition. Peptide amphiphile micelles are a unique biomaterials platform that can function as a modular vaccine delivery system, enabling control over many of these important factors and delivering payloads more efficiently to draining lymph nodes. In this study, the modular properties of peptide amphiphile micelles are utilized to improve an immune response against a Group A Streptococcus B cell antigen (J8). The hydrophobic/hydrophilic interface of peptide amphiphile micelles enabled the precise entrapment of amphiphilic adjuvants which were found to not alter micelle formation or shape. These heterogeneous micelles significantly enhanced mur...
'What'll You Do [With Me] When I'm Gone' ― Controlling Body Disposition: The Law and the Macabre

Perhaps the most difficult thought to ponder is one’s own mortality. Many people avoid confronting the grim reality that they and their loved ones will eventually die. Estate planners must sensitively urge their clients to face the inevitability of death to obtain well-reasoned dispositions of their property. Many clients are also very concerned with the final disposition of their bodies. For example, some individuals want to be buried while others prefer to be cremated.An estate planner needs to take steps to help insure that a client’s body will be handled after death in accordance with the client’s wishes. The estate planner must also work to reduce the chances of those wishes being frustrated either by lack of information to the individuals making disposition arrangements or by individuals surviving the client who are unhappy with the deceased’s disposition requests.Unfortunately, many estate planners ignore or deal superficially with their clients’ body disposition concerns. Accordingly, this article details the techniques which Texas estate planners may use to assist their clients to receive the body disposition they desire.
Anesthesia for Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

The clinical spectrum of coronary artery disease has been recently assessed by the Coronary Artery Surgery Study (CASS) (75). It indicated that many (83%) but not all patients had chest pain, although the pain was not necessarily angina pectoris. Associated risk factors were positive family history, hypertension, diabetes, and cigarette smoking. The significance of breathing disorders or hypoxia during sleep to the progression of CAD is uncertain (38). Although there is wide variation in the number of patients receiving surgical therapy at different centers, the frequency of cardiac or noncardiac surgery in patients with coronary disease has risen steadily in recent years. A report of patients randomly assigned to surgical or medical therapy in the CASS has suggested that surgery may be delayed in patients with preserved ventricular function and stable angina until their symptoms worsen (23).
Automated diagnosis of myositis from muscle ultrasound: Exploring the use of machine learning and deep learning methods.

Objective To evaluate the use of ultrasound coupled with machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) techniques for automated or semi-automated classification of myositis. Methods Eighty subjects comprised of 19 with inclusion body myositis (IBM), 14 with polymyositis (PM), 14 with dermatomyositis (DM), and 33 normal (N) subjects were included in this study, where 3214 muscle ultrasound images of 7 muscles (observed bilaterally) were acquired. We considered three problems of classification including (A) normal vs. affected (DM, PM, IBM); (B) normal vs. IBM patients; and (C) IBM vs. other types of myositis (DM or PM). We studied the use of an automated DL method using deep convolutional neural networks (DL-DCNNs) for diagnostic classification and compared it with a semi-automated conventional ML method based on random forests (ML-RF) and “engineered” features. We used the known clinical diagnosis as the gold standard for evaluating performance of muscle classification. Results The performance of the DL-DCNN method resulted in accuracies ± standard deviation of 76.2% ± 3.1% for problem (A), 86.6% ± 2.4% for (B) and 74.8% ± 3.9% for (C), while the ML-RF method led to accuracies of 72.3% ± 3.3% for problem (A), 84.3% ± 2.3% for (B) and 68.9% ± 2.5% for (C). Conclusions This study demonstrates the application of machine learning methods for automatically or semi-automatically classifying inflammatory muscle disease using muscle ultrasound. Compared to the conventional random forest machine learning method used here, which has the drawback of requiring manual delineation of muscle/fat boundaries, DCNN-based classification by and large improved the accuracies in all classification problems while providing a fully automated approach to classification.
Brief Exposures to the Taste of Ethanol (EtOH) and Quinine Promote Subsequent Acceptance of EtOH in a Paradigm that Minimizes Postingestive Consequences

Background Aversion to the orosensory properties of concentrated ethanol (EtOH) solutions is often cited as a primary barrier to initiation of drinking and may contribute to abstention. These aversive properties include gustatory processes which encompass both bitter-like taste qualities and trigeminal-mediated irritation. Chronic intermittent EtOH access (CIA) results in substantial and persistent increases in EtOH consumption, but the degree to which this facilitation involves sensory responding to EtOH and other bitter stimuli is currently undetermined. Methods Long-Evans rats were given brief-access licking tests designed to examine the immediate, taste-guided assessment of the palatability of EtOH and quinine solutions. Rats were assessed once in a naive state and again following previous brief-access exposure, or following 4 weeks of CIA. The relationship between the sensitivity to the aversive orosensory properties of EtOH and quinine following EtOH access and the impact of antecedent quinine exposure on the acceptance of EtOH were determined in 2 parallel studies. Results Both brief access to EtOH and 4-week CIA resulted in substantial rightward shifts in the concentration-response function of brief-access EtOH licking, indicating that EtOH exposure increased acceptance of the taste of EtOH. The initial sensitivity to the aversive orosensory properties of EtOH and quinine was positively correlated in naive rats, such that rats that were initially more accepting of quinine were also more accepting of EtOH. Rats that sampled quinine immediately prior to tasting EtOH exhibited successive positive contrast in that they were more accepting of highly concentrated EtOH, relative to a water-control group. Conclusions Increased EtOH acceptance following exposure is, at least in part, facilitated by a decrease in its aversive sensory properties. Both long- and short-term access increase the palatability of the taste of EtOH in brief-access licking tests. Moreover, the sensitivity to the bitterness of quinine was predictive of acceptance of EtOH indicating some commonality in the sensory mechanisms that mediate the initial acceptance of the 2 stimuli. Accordingly, immediate prior exposure to quinine results in increased acceptance of EtOH, suggesting that successive positive contrast between oral stimuli may contribute to increased alcohol consumption.
Association Between Carotid Intima Media Thickness, Age, and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Children and Adolescents.

Abstract Background: Measures of carotid intima media thickness (cIMT) in adults are correlated with adiposity and the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and predict cardiovascular (CV) events. Relations in children are not as well studied. Our objective was to determine the relations of cIMT with body mass index (BMI) and CV risk score in children. Methods: The study included 291 children (158 M/133 F) 6–18 years of age (140 aged 6–11/151 aged 12–18) with measurements of height, weight, waist circumference; fasting lipids, glucose, insulin, and cIMT. A CV risk cluster score was developed from sum of the z-scores of the five MetS components (waist circumference, blood pressure, serum triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and insulin). Partial Pearson correlation coefficients were adjusted for age, sex, and race. Results: There was no significant age difference in cIMT from 6 to 18 years of age. BMI and CV risk score were significantly correlated (P < 0.0001), and both were correlated with cIMT (r = ...
Phrase mining of textual data to analyze extracellular matrix protein patterns across cardiovascular disease.

The present study is the first application of a text-mining algorithm to characterize the relationships of 709 extracellular matrix-related proteins with 6 categories of cardiovascular disease desc...
Specifications for Managed Strings, Second Edition

This report describes a managed string library for the C programming language. Many software vulnerabilities in C programs result from the misuse of manipulation functions for standard C strings. Programming errors common to string-manipulation logic include buffer overflow, truncation errors, string termination errors, and improper data sanitization. The managed string library provides mechanisms to eliminate or mitigate these problems and improve system security. The CERT Program, which is part of the Carnegie Mellon Software Engineering Institute, provides a proof-of-concept implementation of the managed string library on its Secure Coding web pages.
The Shift from War to Peace: Reconciliation of Sub-Identities and Overcoming Psychological Barriers in Israel

The pivotal argument of this paper is that states and political establishments develop two types of identities: self-identity and sub-identity. Mutually corresponding sub-identities are the medium through which states interact. The first part of the paper argues that each state allocates a unique sub-identity to every other individual state or political establishment with whom it engages in a relationship. Particularly, a shift from war to peace requires states to reconcile their respective sub-identities towards their enemies. However, reconciliation is not a straightforward transition from an antagonistic mood to a pacifist environment. It is only possible if psychological barriers are overcome. The second part of this paper is devoted to a diagnosis of the psychological barriers that have prevented Israel from successfully reconciling its sub-identity with the Palestinian establishment.
IEEE 1149.6: Testing Advanced I/O

IEEE Standard 1149.6 [IEEE03] addresses “Boundary-Scan Testing of Advanced Digital Networks” but has become known popularly as “The AC EXTEST” standard. This popular title is really a misnomer. The formal title speaks of testing of advanced digital networks, meaning the I/O structures between ICs. During the development of IEEE Standard 1149.1 over a decade ago, communication between ICs was conducted over single wires. Now we see a growing trend for differential transmission of signals, using two wires per signal channel, and we also are beginning to see AC coupling structures between ICs. AC-coupled differential channels are a signaling process that effectively defeats the testing capabilities of IEEE 1149.1.
Pseudopotential Calculation of Point Defect Properties in Simple Metals

This paper shows a point-defect calculation formulated completely within the framework of the pseudopotential theory. From the functional form of the total energy of the perfect lattice, the explicit expressions for the formation energy and formation volume of a vacancy have been derived. It is shown how the volume-dependent part of the lattice energy can be taken into account in defect calculation. This energy is found to have significant effect on the vacancy properties. To calculate the relaxed configuration around the vacancy, the method of lattice statics was reformulated in the context of pseudopotential theory. The present method was applied to calculate the vacancy-formation energy and formation volume for alkali metals and aluminum, and the results are reported.
High Performance Complementary Black Phosphorus FETs and Inverter Circuits Operating at Record-Low V DD down to 0.2V

Black phosphorus (BP) has attracted wide interest for electronic applications due to its unique properties such as an ultra-thin body, high mobility and a tunable bandgap [1]–[3]. However, most BP transistors exhibit p-type conduction due to Fermi level line-up of the source and drain electrodes close to the valence band [2], which is unfavorable for n-type characteristics and hinders employing BP in CMOS integrated circuits. Here, we report record high performance $n$ -type BP FETs enabled by a careful partial double-gate design and contact work function engineering, which exhibit ON-currents $(\mathrm{I}_{\mathrm{ON}}$ of $60\mu \mathrm{A}/\mu \mathrm{m}$ at $\mathrm{V}_{\mathrm{D}}=0.8\mathrm{V}$ , a minimum subthreshold swing (SS) of 88mV/dec and ON/OFF ratios of $>10^{4}$ . Inverter circuits built from these novel complementary BP FETs exhibit a record high maximum gain of 21.1 and allows inverter operation down to V DD of 0.2V.
The impact of clonal size on the revised international prognostic scoring system (R-IPSS) in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) with a single cytogenetic abnormality.

7068Background: Cytogenetics is the backbone of the R-IPSS for MDS, contributing the most points (0 to 4) to the total scoring system. The current R-IPSS cytogenetics does not factor in the clone s...
Should physicians be empathetic? Rethinking clinical empathy

The role and importance of empathy in clinical practice has been widely discussed. This paper focuses on the ideal of clinical empathy, as involving both cognitive understanding and affective resonance. I argue that this account is subject to a number of objections. Affective resonance may serve more as a liability than as a benefit in clinical settings, and utilizing this capacity is not clearly supported by the relevant empirical literature. Instead, I argue that the ideal account of empathy in medicine remains cognitive, though there is a central role for expressing empathic concern toward patients.
Penetrating the Glycan Shield on HIV-1

The HIV-1 envelope spike, the sole target of virus-directed neutralizing antibodies, is covered by a dense array of N-linked glycans, which comprises rough half its molecular weight. Because these ...
Embracing Creativity in K-12 Engineering Pedagogy

This exploratory chapter proposes placing an explicit focus on creativity as part of K-12 STEAM education, specifically within the context of engineering. We examine how three key elements of an applied arts pedagogy, promoting divergent thinking, reframing failure as a natural part of the creative design process, and incorporating reflection, can enrich the engineering design cycle. We propose that broadening the scope of engineering education to foster creativity may have the potential to attract a larger number of participants to the discipline of engineering.
Skeletal Stability After Mandibular Counterclockwise Rotational Advancement for Correction of Skeletal Class II Deformity—A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract Objectives The aim of this systemic review was to compare surgical and postsurgical changes in the mandible after bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) with counterclockwise (CCW) rotational advancement. A review of the current available dental literature regarding skeletal stability after mandibular CCW rotational advancement for skeletal Class II deformity was performed using a qualitative and quantitative analysis (meta-analysis). Material and Methods Five databases were searched: PubMed, MEDLINE (Ovid), Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science. The systematic review and meta-analysis addressed the stability of BSSO CCW rotational advancement and the effect of the amount of CCW rotation on skeletal stability after BSSO advancement. Meta-analysis was performed only for studies reporting point B position in mm or mandibular plane angle in degrees before and after surgery and at follow-up. Results The database search resulted in 284 articles after removal of duplicates, and an additional 3 articles were included from hand searches of the bibliographies of the selected articles and relevant reviews. Eight studies were included in the systematic review; all were retrospective case series, and all used rigid fixation. Only 1 study was of medium quality; all other studies were of low quality. Meta-analysis of 3 studies revealed a mean forward movement of 7.6 mm at point B (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.07 to 11.4), a mean downward movement of 2.6 mm (95% CI, −0.66 to 5.84), and a mean CCW rotation of mandibular plane of 4.3° (95% CI, −6.34 to −2.19) during surgery. After surgery, point B showed a mean backward movement of −0.18 mm (95% CI, −1.30 to 1.14), a mean upward movement of −0.5 mm (95% CI, −3.00 to 1.98), and a mean clockwise rotation of 0.1° (95% CI, −1.76 to 1.91). Conclusions Meta-analysis showed mandibular CCW rotational advancement is a stable procedure, both horizontally and vertically. However, the conclusions are far from robust due to the small sample size and poor quality of the reviewed studies.
Getting into the thick (and thin) of it.

The heart is a highly regulated system in which a combination of mechanisms work together to match cardiac output to the needs of the body. Loss of this regulation characterizes many cardiomyopathies, where muscle is either hypo- or hypercontractile. For many years, x-ray diffraction has been used
Future Research Needs in Convective Heat and Mass Transport in Porous Media

In the preceding chapters, many experts have heralded the successes in the study of convective heat and mass transport in porous media. In contrast, this chapter focuses on existing weaknesses and points at future needs of research in this field. Its scope includes convective multi-component and multi-phase transport processes, both with and without phase change. Analytical and experimental issues are discussed in conjunction with relevant new projects that show promise. The author has benefited from the inputs of panelists and participants before, during and after the panel meeting at the 1990 NATO Advanced Study Institute. The names of contributors are given in the acknowledgments section.
Multimodal Tuning of an Axisymmetric Resonator

This paper reports an approach for the simultaneous elimination of the modal frequency differences within two pairs of modes in an axisymmetric resonator. Fabricated devices exhibit frequency detuning, which can be eliminated by strategically mass loading the resonator. Each pair of modes responds to the mass loading differently so models are developed to predict the postloading frequency differences. The models are incorporated into a search procedure to select deposition sites that simultaneously reduce the modal frequency difference within each pair. The proposed approach is successfully implemented on a resonator whose modal frequency differences are reduced below 200 mHz from an initial frequency difference of 23.5 Hz for a pair of modes at 13.8 kHz, and a 2.4 Hz difference for another pair of modes at 24.3 kHz.
How low can we go? The limits of monetary policy

Central banks have recently pushed interest rates below zero. This was done after some considerable time with interest rates being near zero and unemployment remaining very high in many countries. The hope was that negative rates would reinvigorate monetary policy and rescue countries suffering from high unemployment and slow growth. This paper argues that negative rates are not an effective solution to the problems of high unemployment and economic stagnation, and that this policy proposal fails to understand both the nature of negative interest rates and how far interest rates might be pushed below zero percent. Rates a little bit below zero are possible because of insurance and carrying costs. Anything substantially below this would result in considerable economic harm that would exceed any economic benefits from the lower rates. This being the case, fiscal policy must be the policy of choice in difficult economic times.
Dust emission from comets at large heliocentric distances

Possible mechanisms for the production of the extended dust coma observed in comet Bowell (1980b) at the large heliocentric distance of 7.17 AU are considered. It is concluded that a plausible mechanism is electrostatic blow-off of fine, loose dust from an electrically charged H2O dominated nucleus, as recently proposed by Mendiset al. (1981). Of all the other processes considered, dust entrainment by a chemical species more volatile than H2O is considered the most plausible. However, the non-observation of prominent CO+ lines of theA 2Π-X 2Σ band, seems to mitigate against a CO dominated nucleus, particularly if its radius is ≥1 km. A CO2 dominated nucleus, however, cannot be ruled out by this non-observation unless its radius is considerably larger (≈ 5 km). The electrostatic blow-off process predicts that the dust grains in the coma of comet Bowell at 7.17 AU must be very small (r g≤0.4 μ), with a total mass ≤4×108 g, and a spatial extension ≤105 km, which is consistent with the observations (observed coma diameter ≈6×104 km). Both the size and spatial distribution of the dust given by electrostatic blow-off and the gas entrainment processes are shown to be different, and this would be a way of discriminating between the two processes. However, the present observations do not have the resolution to do so.
The Reaction of 9-Bromoanthracene with Benzenethiolate Anion in Tetraglyme: Evidence against a competing electron-transfer mechanism

The reaction of 9-bromoanthracene (1) with benzenethiol(ate) in tetraglyme proceeds by a SNAr mechanism. The concurrent formation of anthracene is not due to a competing single-electron-transfer pathway involving either benzenethiol or benzenethiolate anion.
Bending and Buckling of Thin-Walled Open-Section Rings

The Wagner theory for the bending and buckling of straight bars of thin-walled open section is extended to circular curved bars and rings. The differential equations of equilibrium are determined by a summation of force components, whereas the natural boundary conditions are derived by the minimum potential energy principle. The effects of nonuniform torsion, unsymmetrical loading, elastic foundation, and axial extension are included. The buckling of a ring subjected to a uniform external pressure is treated. The critical pressure is found to be the root of a cubic characteristic equation. Simplified solutions are found by restricting the generality, thereby reducing the characteristic equation to the first order.
TranslucentID: analysis of complex DNA SNP mixtures with large numbers of donors

ABSTRACTMixture analysis of complex forensic DNA mixtures can identify multiple individuals who cannot be excluded using massively parallel sequencing (MPS) with single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP...
Analysis of Solidification and Thermal-Mechanical Behaviors in Continuous Casting

Continuous casting (CC) is the most utilized steel making process today, but knowledge on the many complex phenomena that occur within the process could be gained. Issues such as transient flow patterns and immoderate amounts of localized stress can result in internal or external defects such as surface cracks. With the advancement in computational power, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can provide significant insights into solidification and solid stress within CC. This work will focus on solidification of the shell within the mold, and the stresses that occur within the solidified shell. Excessive stress on a thinning portion of the shell is one of the main catalysts in the case of a breakout so it is important to understand its behavior and overall impact. Solidification and thermal-mechanical models were developed using the commercial CFD and FEM software STAR-CCM+™. The main objective of this paper is to create a simplistic method for analyzing stress in a solidifying shell that takes into account temperature distribution from the melt.
Making It Rain: How Giving Me Telescope Time Can Reduce Drought

In this paper we assess the correlation between recent observing runs (2018 and 2019) and inclement weather, and demonstrate that these observing runs have seen much more rainfall than would otherwise be expected, an increase of over 200%. We further look at a number of observatory sites in areas that are facing or will face drought, and suggest that a strong environmental benefit would follow from telescope allocation committees providing us an inordinate amount of telescope time at facilities located around the globe.
Laser-clad Ni70Al20Cr7Hf3 alloys with extended solid solution of Hf: Part I. Microstructure evolution

Coatings for superalloys for extended service in atmospheres at high temperature are of great interest at present. The addition of reactive elements (RE’s) such as Hf to these coatings has a pronounced effect on their high-temperature oxidation resistance. A laser-cladding technique was used to produce Ni-Al-Cr-Hf alloys with an extended solid solution of Hf in a nearstoichiometric Ni3Al matrix. A 10 kW CO2 laser with mixed powder feed was used for the cladding process. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) were employed for studies of microstructural evolution of alloys produced during the laser-cladding process. Microstructural studies reveal the formation of dendrites with a solid solubility of about 11 to 14 wt pct Hf and also a eutectic structure. Convergent-beam techniques and X-ray spectroscopy have been applied to characterize the phases formed during the cladding process.
Global health on the front lines: an innovative medical student elective combining education and service during the COVID-19 pandemic.

An innovative medical student elective combined student-directed, faculty-supported online learning with COVID-19 response field placements. This study evaluated students’ experience in the course, the curriculum content and format, and its short-term impact on students’ knowledge and attitudes around COVID-19. Students responded to discussion board prompts throughout the course and submitted pre−/post-course reflections. Pre−/post-course questionnaires assessed pandemic knowledge and attitudes using 4-point Likert scales. Authors collected aggregate data on enrollment, discussion posts, field placements, and scholarly work resulting from course activities. After the elective, authors conducted a focus group with a convenience sample of 6 participants. Institutional elective evaluation data was included in analysis. Authors analyzed questionnaire data with summary statistics and paired t-tests comparing knowledge and attitudes before and after the elective. Reflection pieces, discussion posts, and focus group data were analyzed using content analysis with a phenomenological approach. Twenty-seven students enrolled. Each student posted an average of 2.4 original discussion posts and 3.1 responses. Mean knowledge score increased from 43.8 to 60.8% (p < 0.001) between pre- and post-course questionnaires. Knowledge self-assessment also increased (2.4 vs. 3.5 on Likert scale, p < 0.0001), and students reported increased engagement in the pandemic response (2.7 vs. 3.6, p < 0.0001). Students reported increased fluency in discussing the pandemic and increased appreciation for the field of public health. There was no difference in students’ level of anxiety about the pandemic after course participation (3.0 vs. 3.1, p = 0.53). Twelve students (44.4%) completed the institutional evaluation. All rated the course “very good” or “excellent.” Students favorably reviewed the field placements, suggested readings, self-directed research, and learning from peers. They suggested more clearly defined expectations and improved balance between volunteer and educational hours. The elective was well-received by students, achieved stated objectives, and garnered public attention. Course leadership should monitor students’ time commitment closely in service-learning settings to ensure appropriate balance of service and education. Student engagement in a disaster response is insufficient to address anxiety related to the disaster; future course iterations should include a focus on self-care during times of crisis. This educational innovation could serve as a model for medical schools globally.
Supporting All Students: Productive Mathematical Discourse in Online Environments:

Classroom instruction focused on discussion-based learning opportunities can provide productive and inclusive learning experiences for all students, including students with learning disabilities in...
Practical Issues to Know About

To facilitate the presentation of machine-learning techniques, this book has so far neglected certain practical issues that are non-essential for beginners but cannot be neglected in realistic applications. Now that the elementary principles have been explained, time has come to venture beyond the basics.
Qualitative Mathematics for the Social Sciences : Mathematical Models for Research on Cultural Dynamics

Rudolph, Valsiner, Preface. Rudolph, Valsiner, Introduction: Mathematical Models and Social Representation. Part I: Logics of Modeling. Rudolph, Logic in Modeling, Logics as Models. Busemeyer, Introduction to Quantum Probability for Social and Behavioral Scientists. Dzhafarov, The Sorites Paradox: A Behavioral Approach. Tat Ng, On an Intensity Attribute-Loudness. Part II: Model Structures. Rudolph, Functions of Structure in Mathematics and Modeling. Diriwachter, Structure and Hierarchies in Ganzheitspsychologie. Kawauchi, Mind-Knots and Mind-Relations: Knot Theory Applied to Psychology. Neuman, A Novel Generic Conception of Structure: Solving Piaget's Riddle. Part III: Dynamic Models. Rudolph, The Varieties of Dynamic(al) Experience. Abraham, Friedman, Viotti, Complex Dynamical Systems and the Social Sciences. Poddiakov, Valsiner, Intransitivity Cycles and Their Transformations: How Dynamically Adapting Systems Function? Part IV: Conclusions. Rudolph, Modeling and Diagrammatic Reasoning.
Detection of delamination in concrete slabs combining infrared thermography and impact echo techniques: a comparative experimental study

Inspection of bridge decks is of primary importance in the field of bridges maintenance since, unless other structural components, they are more subjected to degradation and traffic-induced deterioration phenomena. Among the various deterioration mechanisms, delaminations are generally difficult to detect because no visible effects are usually observed on the deck surface. Since the entity of the damage progressively increase during time, methodologies able to effectively detect delaminations are needed in order to design appropriate solutions and reduce maintenance costs. In this work, the results obtained using two different nondestructive techniques, namely the impact echo (IE) method and the infrared thermography (IR), are compared. Experimental tests have been performed on a 20cm thick concrete slab containing delaminations of various extensions and on a small 60cm×60cm×20cm concrete specimen. Impact echo tests have been performed, with ultrasonic waveforms collected on an orthogonal grid of points spaced 30cm apart. Spacing was reduced to 5 cm for IE data collection in the small block. Leveraging different features extracted from IE, delaminations have been located. The results obtained using the impact echo test have been compared with those extracted using the infrared thermography. The main concept behind the use of the IR is that embedded horizontal interfaces behave as heat traps, resulting in different temperature areas on the slab surface. A discussion on the pro and cons of the two methodologies is provided and the paper ends with a preliminary attempt to perform data fusion, combining the results from the 2 different nondestructive techniques.
Estimating Water Retention Characteristics of Sands from Grain Size Distribution using Idealized Packing Conditions

A new approach is presented for estimating the soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) of granular porous media along a drainage path using the relatively simple measurements of grain size distribution (GSD) and mass-volume relationships (void ratio). GSD measured using mechanical sieve analysis is converted into an equivalent population of smooth, spherical particles. Pore size distributions representing relatively loose and relatively dense packing conditions are calculated from the geometry of idealized two-dimensional unit pores formed among particle groups randomly assembled from the simulated particle population. The Young–Laplace equation is used to quantify the amount of pore water retained in the form of thin films, liquid bridges, and completely filled pockets, thus allowing the SWCC to be modeled over the entire saturation range. The measured void ratio is used to constrain the modeled SWCC via the theoretical consideration of the work done to expand air-water interfaces throughout the matrix. Nine sets of results for sands and glass beads are used to evaluate the model’s performance. SWCCs are most effectively predicted in the capillary and funicular saturation regimes (20 % < S <100 %), with more deviation observed in the pendular regime (S < 20 %). Air-entry pressure is predicted within an average error of 8 %. Assumptions and constraints required in the framework restrict the general applicability of the approach to poorly graded materials with predominant grain sizes in the sand- to silt-sized range.
US textile sector job loss: An exploration of implications for individuals, community, and industry

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the experiences of displaced female textile sector workers. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative approach to data collection and interpretation forms the methodological basis of the study. In-depth interviews were conducted with 14 female employees who were laid off from a large textile manufacturing facility in a southeastern state. Participants were selected through the local community college where they returned to school after losing their jobs. Findings – A phenomenological interpretation of the responses led to the development of three emergent thematic areas connecting similarities and differences that surfaced across the participants? narratives. Key issues within the thematic areas point to the need for each participant to come to terms with the job loss, both emotionally and financially, and to decide where she would go from there. Research limitations/implications – The study focuses on women employed at a single manufacturing facility and within a single state in the southeastern USA. Implications of the meanings of participants? experiences for their community and for the future of employment in the US textile sector are considered. Practical implications – The study provides an interpretation of the impact of textile sector dynamics on the lives of displaced workers and the local community. Originality/value – The paper offers insight into the human side of industry dynamics and declining manufacturing employment figures. It also sheds light on the extent to which some displaced textile sector workers have pursued the educational options made available through government programs designed to provide assistance with education and retraining.