cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Moisture diffusion in composite sandwich structures

Abstract The mechanical properties of polymer core materials in sandwich structures are often degraded by moisture that is absorbed during storage. To date, there is no reliable model to predict the amount of moisture that is present in these sandwich core materials. A multi-layer diffusion model applicable to these sandwich structures is described in this report. Inputs to this model are: (1) diffusivities of core and face sheet materials as functions of temperature, (2) moisture saturation data as a function of relative humidity, and (3) sandwich structure exposure history. The output is a prediction of the amounts of moisture in the core material and face sheets as a function of time. In order to validate this model, moisture diffusion experiments were performed on a sandwich material consisting of graphite–epoxy face sheets and a core of Rohacell ® polymethacrylimide 200WF foam. Samples of this material were dried, and then hydrated at either 32 °C or 65 °C at either 83% or 100% relative humidity. The face sheets were separated from the core and each component was weighed, dried, and weighed again in order to determine the moisture distribution in the sandwich structure. The results were then compared with the model predictions.
Self-reported height, calculated height, and derived body mass index in assessment of older adults.

Body mass index (BMI) is frequently used as assessment of nutritional and health risk. Yet, there is no consensus regarding assessment of height and cutpoints for weight classification in older adults. We first investigated differences in height by self-report (SR-height) and height calculated from measured knee-height (KH-height) and derived BMI in a cross-sectional assessment of 145 older adults residing in a Midwestern United States city. We further compared the proportion of older adults classified as at risk by seven different BMI cutpoints for weight classification as reported in the literature. We found no substantive difference in SR-height and KH-height or derived BMI, but we did find significant differences in the proportions of participants classified as At Risk across different BMI cutpoints. In community and clinical practice, SR-height and KH-height, and BMI derived from these, can be used interchangeably, but the lack of consensus regarding BMI cutpoints could lead to misclassification of o...
Sequential multi-molecule delivery using vortex-assisted electroporation

We developed an on-chip microscale electroporation system that enables sequential delivery of multiple molecules with precise and independent dosage controllability into pre-selected identical populations of target cells. The ability to trap cells with uniform size distribution contributed to enhanced molecular delivery efficiency and cell viability. Additionally, the system provides real-time monitoring ability of the entire delivery process, allowing timely and independent modification of cell- and molecule-specific electroporation parameters. The precisely controlled amount of inherently membrane-impermeant molecules was transferred into human cancer cells by varying electric field strengths and molecule injection durations. The proposed microfluidic electroporation system's improved viability and comparable gene transfection efficiency to that of commercial systems suggest that the current system has great potential to expand the research fields that on-chip electroporation techniques can be used in.
Low-temperature magnetic properties of some asbestos minerals

Abstract The low temperature magnetic susceptibilities of five asbestos minerals have been measured. Amosite and crocidolite are antiferromagnetic in the liquid helium temperature range. Canadian chrysotile has Curie law behavior between 1 and 4 K. Anthophyllite and Rhodesian chrysotile have Curie-Weiss law behavior between 1 and 4 K.
Suppression of the Colorado Potato Beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), on Solanaceous Crops with a Copper-Based Fungicide

Field experiments were carried out to determine if a copper-based fungicide known to deter feeding by the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say), in the laboratory, could suppress the growth of L. decemlineata populations in the field when used regularly for plant disease protection on tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. Larval densities on plants treated with a fungicide formulated with copper hydroxide (Cu(OH)/sub 2/) were between 44 and 100% lower than on untreated control plants or plants treated with a more commonly used fungicide, mancozeb. The greatest reductions occurred on tomatoes, the least suitable host of the three for L. decemlineata growth and survival.
Metaphoric Illumination in Groups.

This article addresses the role of metaphoric expression in groups, providing a rationale for its therapeutic potential and suggesting methods for illuminating it as a means of understanding and promoting group development. Several case examples are provided.
No face is an island: How implicit bias operates in social scenes

Abstract Social psychologists have mainly studied implicit attitudes toward faces presented one at a time, whereas, in real life, we often encounter people in the presence of others. These surrounding individuals may alter attitudes toward the focal target of attention. We employed a flanker-IAT task and found that, when black and white targets were presented in racially diverse contexts, bias was decreased. This decrease in bias occurred even when targets previously seen in diverse contexts were presented on their own, suggesting context-free evaluations of the targets had been formed. Experiment 2 showed that the effect of diverse contexts does not affect bias toward a racial category as a whole, but only the specific targets previously seen in the diverse contexts. Quad model analysis ( Sherman et al., 2008 ) revealed that these effects were related to changes in automatic evaluations, and not to changes in inhibition. Implications for implicit bias change and prejudice reduction strategies are discussed.
Teboroxime is a marker of reperfusion after myocardial infarction.

It has been shown that serial teboroxime imaging can rapidly assess coronary perfusion in viable myocardial distributions. However, the myocardial uptake of teboroxime after reperfusion of acutely infarcted myocardium has not been critically evaluated. The study object was to assess whether teboroxime uptake in acutely infarcted myocardium is linearly related to blood flow. Seventeen New Zealand rabbits underwent occlusion of the left circumflex coronary artery for 1 hour. The animals were reperfused for 2 hours and, just before they were killed, teboroxime was injected. The infarct was delineated by triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. Normalized blood flow and myocardial teboroxime distribution in the infarcted myocardium was determined by gamma well counting. Ex vivo planar images of the left ventricle were also acquired. Transmural myocardial infarction was documented in all 17 rabbits. The mean infarct size±one standard deviation was 25.5%±10.7% (range, 11.9% to 43.3%). There was a direct linear relationship between normalized reperfusion flow and myocardial teboroxime distribution in the infarct zone (r=0.91). A direct linear relationship between defect size and normalized infarct zone reperfusion was also evident on the ex vivo planar studies (r=0.70). This study shows that the initial uptake of teboroxime in acutely infarcted myocardium is linearly related to blood flow. Teboroxime has properties that are well suited for the early evaluation of infarct zone perfusion.
Apical/Basal Spindle Orientation Is Required for Neuroblast Homeostasis and Neuronal Differentiation in Drosophila

Precise regulation of stem cell self-renewal/differentiation is essential for embryogenesis and tumor suppression. Drosophila neural progenitors (neuroblasts) align their spindle along an apical/basal polarity axis to generate a self-renewed apical neuroblast and a differentiating basal cell. Here, we genetically disrupt spindle orientation without altering cell polarity to test the role of spindle orientation in self-renewal/differentiation. We perform correlative live imaging of polarity markers and spindle orientation over multiple divisions within intact brains, followed by molecular marker analysis of cell fate. We find that spindle alignment orthogonal to apical/basal polarity always segregates apical determinants into both siblings, which invariably assume a neuroblast identity. Basal determinants can all be localized into one sibling without inducing neuronal differentiation, but overexpression of the basal determinant Prospero can deplete neuroblasts. We conclude that the ratio of apical/basal determinants specifies neuroblast/GMC identity, and that apical/basal spindle orientation is required for neuroblast homeostasis and neuronal differentiation.
Hodge decomposition for two-dimensional time-harmonic Maxwell's equations: impedance boundary condition

We extend the Hodge decomposition approach for the cavity problem of two-dimensional time-harmonic Maxwell's equations to include the impedance boundary condition, with anisotropic electric permittivity and sign-changing magnetic permeability. We derive error estimates for a P1 finite element method based on the Hodge decomposition approach and present results of numerical experiments that involve metamaterials and electromagnetic cloaking. The well-posedness of the cavity problem when both electric permittivity and magnetic permeability can change sign is also discussed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inflammatory Disorders of Bone Marrow

Summary Inflammatory lesions in bone marrow, observed during a 2 year period at the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, were reviewed. Of 24 bone marrow specimens with evidence of inflammation, six were classified as acute inflammation, nine as fibrinous inflammation, five as chronic inflammation/hyperplasia, three as granulomatous inflammation and one as nodular lymphoid hyperplasia. Acute inflammation commonly accompanied bacterial sepsis. Two patterns of acute inflammation were identified. One pattern consisted of multifocal microabscesses. The other pattern of acute inflammation consisted of perivascular infiltrates of neutrophils, fibrin, edema, and hemorrhage. The most common disorder associated with fibrinous inflammation was disseminated intravascular coagulopathy. Chronic inflammation was difficult to differentiate from chronic immune stimulation. Discrete granulomas were identified in the marrow of animals with systemic mycotic disease, idiopathic systemic granulomatous disease, and serous atrophy of fat. This study indicates that a broad variety of inflammatory disorders occur in animal bone marrow and that these disorders can be classified based on general categories of inflammation described in other tissues.
Evaluating device design rules based on lithographic capability

This paper demonstrates a method of analysis to determine a minimum achievable overlay design rule, for an existing stepper tool set in a high volume manufacturing fab. Overlay parameters and Critical Dimensions are considered in an overlay budget applying a modified algorithm to the evaluation of reticle errors, tool performance, and design rule analysis. The modified algorithm is used to determine the capability of an installed tool set of high NA steppers to meet the aggressive overlay requirements for advanced BiCMOS device performance. Design rule boundaries and tool set capability are thoroughly investigated. Experimental results from lithographic tests are used in a modified algorithm to determine the capability of running with current design rules or requiring a change for manufacturability. The impact of writing reticles to tighter specifications for both Critical Dimensions and pattern placement are considered. This study provides a method for chip designers and process engineers to determine the lithographic capability of an installed tool set where a part will eventually be fabricated. The results demonstrate that design rules demand optimum tool performance for overlay and CD control as well as provide a tool for the evaluation of continuous improvement.
Kinetics and equilibria of sulfur dioxide sorption in kapton polyimide

The kinetics and equilibria of SO2 sorption in Kapton polyimide film have been measured at 25°C for pressures up to 58 cm Hg using a quartz spring balance. The observed equilibria are described well by the dual-mode model for sorption of penetrants in glassy polymers. Observed hysteresis in sorption-desorption cycling indicates that the diffusivity of SO2 increases markedly with increasing local penetrant concentration in the polymer. The concentration dependence of the effective average diffusion coefficient is described well by an expression from dual-mode theory. The Langmuir component of the sorption population has an extremely low mobility compared to that of the Henry's law component; in fact, the so-called “total immobilization” limiting case, which assigns a zero diffusion coefficient to this component, appears to be satisfactory under the conditions studied. These results, coupled with published results for other penetrants, suggest that the degree of immobilization of the Langmuir population depends to a great extent on the condensability and/or the molecular size of the penetrant. Predictions of the SO2 diffusion time lag and permeability in Kapton as functions of the upstream SO2 pressure are presented and discussed in terms of the dual-mode theory.
PEGylation of concanavalin A to improve its stability for an in vivo glucose sensing assay.

Competitive binding assays utilizing concanavalin A (ConA) have the potential to be the basis of improved continuous glucose monitoring devices. However, the efficacy and lifetime of these assays have been limited, in part, by ConA’s instability due to its thermal denaturation in the physiological environment (37 °C, pH 7.4, 0.15 M NaCl) and its electrostatic interaction with charged molecules or surfaces. These undesirable interactions change the constitution of the assay and the kinetics of its behavior over time, resulting in an unstable glucose response. In this work, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains are covalently attached to lysine groups on the surface of ConA (i.e., PEGylation) in an attempt to improve its stability in these environments. Dynamic light scattering measurements indicate that PEGylation significantly improved ConA’s thermal stability at 37 °C, remaining stable for at least 30 days. Furthermore, after PEGylation, ConA’s binding affinity to the fluorescent competing ligand previously...
Prenatal haloperidol alters striatal dopamine and opiate receptors

Abstract Dopamine receptors were chronically blocked with haloperidol during prenatal development. The treatment resulted in a large decrease in [3H]naloxone binding to striatal opiate receptors and increased [3H]spiperone binding to dopamine receptors with these effects being apparent on the day of birth (P0). The autoradiographically visualized patterns of receptor distribution were unaltered. At 16 days postnatally (P16), a period that marks the end of the postnatal spurt in brain growth, dopamine receptor binding was still elevated and opiate receptor binding was still diminished. The differential effect of haloperidol on the density and developmental time course of the dopamine and non-dopamine systems suggests that complex developmental interactions normally occur, and that these can be disrupted by maternal administration of neuroleptic drugs.
Molecular beam study of possible CVD intermediates from Group-14 organometallic precursors

Abstract Neutral products were examined via photoionization mass spectrometry following high-voltage discharge on a variety of volatile organometallic compounds containing Group-14 elements in helium. HV discharge on organosilicon precursors in the presence of nitrogen produced Si2N as the nearly exclusive product; M2N analogs were observed for M=Ge, Sn precursors but did not show the same remarkable propensity for formation. With an organogermane precursor, GeOH, GeNO2, and GeNO3 also showed significant propensities to form. Finally, toluene – the all carbon analog of phenylsilane – reacted with oxygen copresent in the discharge to give C2O2+ as the only observed cationic product following photoionization.
Displacement Bounds for Dynamically Loaded Elastic Structures

A technique for determining upper bounds on displacements at chosen points of certain dynamically loaded elastic structures is presented. The technique is an extension of earlier work (1), and makes use of the classical potential energy theorem for structures in which displacements are small. In certain cases the method can be extended to finite displacements by involving a stability requirement. An example involving impulsive loading is given.
Rule-based statistical data mining agents for an e-commerce application

Intelligent data mining techniques have useful e-Business applications. Because an e-Commerce application is related to multiple domains such as statistical analysis, market competition, price comparison, profit improvement and personal preferences, this paper presents a hybrid knowledge-based e-Commerce system fusing intelligent techniques, statistical data mining, and personal information to enhance QoS (Quality of Service) of e-Commerce. A Web-based e-Commerce application software system, eDVD Web Shopping Center, is successfully implemented uisng Java servlets and an Oracle81 database server. Simulation results have shown that the hybrid intelligent e-Commerce system is able to make smart decisions for different customers.© (2003) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Accounting for Travel Time Reliability and Trip Purpose in an Agent-Based Approach to Toll Pricing with Dynamic Feedback Control: Case Study on I-95 Managed-Lanes Corridor

Congestion pricing is an effective management policy to reduce traffic congestion on freeways. This study accounted for the travel time difference and reliability on managed and general-purpose lanes in a modified approach to determining toll rates recently developed by others. The original approach was modified by developing an agent-based toll pricing strategy that used dynamic feedback control and accounted for trip purpose, travel time reliability (TTR), and level of income to maximize toll revenue while maintaining a minimum desired level of service on managed lanes. An external module was developed to execute the modified strategy in VISSIM, which exported the traffic data generated to an Excel spreadsheet in real time to calculate TTR, used in the route choice process. Agent-based modeling simulated drivers' learning process and estimation of TTR from their previous commuting experience. A numerical example illustrated the modified strategy. The simulation results confirmed that, under high traffic...
A Controlled Double-Blind Study of High-Dose Dihydroergotoxine Mesylate (HydergineR) in Mild Dementia

In a double-blind study of 41 outpatients aged 55 to 80 years with mild memory impairment, the efficacy of dihydroergotoxine mesylate (DEM, Hydergine) at 6 mg per day, administered orally, was tested during a twelve-week period. Specific etiologies for the amnesic syndrome were ruled out by history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Subjects with a Hamilton Depression Scale rating above 18, ie, possible pseudodementia, were excluded. Physician rating of memory, employing the Inventory of Psychic and Somatic Complaints in the Elderly (IPSC-E), indicated statistically significant improvement of memory function in DEM treated subjects (N = 22) v those on placebo (N = 19), (F = 3.34; df = 1,39; P less than .04). In contrast, structured testing of recent memory using digit symbol substitution and Zahlenverbindungs test (ZVT) showed improvement in both groups (P less than .001) with no significant intergroup differences (P less than .10). Out results indicate that in cases of mild, though subjectively distressing impairment, DEM at higher dosages may help to enhance short-term memory function.
Functional analysis of tight junction organization

The functional basis of tight junction design has been examined from the point of view that this rate-limiting barrier to paracellular transport is a multicompartment system. Review of the osmotic sensitivity of these structures points to the need for this sort of analysis for meaningful correlation of structure and function under a range of conditions. A similar conclusion is drawn with respect to results from voltage-clamping protocols where reversal of spontaneous transmural potential difference elicits parallel changes in both structure and function in much the same way as does reversal of naturally occurring osmotic gradients. In each case, it becomes necessary to regard the junction as a functionally polarized structure to account for observations of its rectifying properties. Lastly, the details of experimentally-induced junction deformation are examined in light of current theories of its organization; arguments are presented in favor of the view that the primary components of intramembranous organization (as viewed with freeze-tracture techniques) are lipidic rather than proteinaceous.
An Interpretation of the SS433 Phenomenon

We present a model which provides an interpretation of the observations relating to the object SS433. The model represents the logical development of the proposal of Collins and Newsom (1979) and consists of a binary system comprised of a massive early-type stellar primary, containing a substantial magnetic field and stellar wind, which is precessionally driven with a 165 day period by a much less massive secondary. The cool gas Doppler-shifted spectrum occurs behind a shock front propagating around the system in the remote regions of the stellar magnetic field. The constraints placed on any model by observation are set forth, and particular attention is given to how they are met by this model. Specifically, we show that the energetics and emission requirements are easily met while the observed radial velocity curve can be fit within the mostly stochastic variations displayed by the source. Finally we discuss the implications of the model for further observation and for the immediate past and future of the object.
A needle-type enzyme-based lactate sensor for in vivo monitoring

Abstract A miniature needle-type lactate sensor prepared by coupling the enzyme lactate oxidase (LOD) with an hydrogen peroxide probe has been developed which makes possible real-time in vivo lactate measurements. The sensor has a size of 0.35mm o.d. with a cylindrical sensing cavity in which a multilayer detection element was placed. The linearity of sensor response was extended beyond the clinically relevant concentration range and the response time was about 30 seconds. Measurement of incubated plasma samples with lactate oxidase and catalase showed that the overall endogenous interferences caused a negligible error. In vitro characterization including effects of temperature, pH and P O 2 and stability was carried out as well. In vivo tests in rat subcutaneous tissue showed that the sensors functioned reliably. Good correlation was observed between the sensor output and plasma lactate measured simultaneously in situ with a flow injection system. Potential oxygen effects were also measured in vivo and the results showed that the sensor can tolerate reasonably low tissue oxygen levels even for hypoxic conditions in which P O 2 was as low as 10 mmHg.
Fish imagery in art 52: Ellis’ Megamouth shark

Few painters blur the boundaries between scientific illustration, popular illustration, and fine art better than Richard Ellis. Ellis got his start as an illustrator for the Encyclopedia Brittanica and subsequently achieved considerable success as a painter of sharks and whales, portrayed in their natural habitats. The acrylic painting of the megamouth shark, Megachasma pelagios, was created in 1977 to accompany the scientific article describing the new genus and species (Taylor et a1.1983). Ellis went to Hawaii shortly after the first specimen of this large (4.5m) deepsea shark was caught and made the sketches upon which the painting was based. The painting is unusual for an illustration accompanying a species description in that it attempts to show the fish as it would look alive, while feeding in its mesopelagic environment. Although the shark is huge, Ellis has chosen to paint it as dwarfed by the limitless environment in which it lives. In doing so, Ellis creates a unique vision of the shark and its world, as he has done in other shark paintings (Ellis 1975). His paintings are clearly more than simple illustrations and can be appreaciated as much from an aesthetic as from an ichthyological perspective.
Treatment Program for Borderline Hypertension among College Students: Relaxation, Finger Temperature Biofeedback, and Generalization

A single group outcome study of treatment for borderline hypertension was performed. 8 male college students, with elevated blood pressure, were identified through campus-wide, blood-pressure screening and were referred by the Health Center for a treatment program of general relaxation and biofeedback-induced relaxation. 4 undergraduate psychology majors conducted training sessions three times per week for each subject. On the basis of increases in finger temperature, it was concluded that relaxation was produced. Reductions in systolic pressure of 10 to 15 mm Hg were obtained in as few as 14 sessions, although greater reductions occurred with more training sessions. A follow-up, 5 mo. later, indicated the need to maintain the relaxation program for a longer duration. Suggestions were made for implementing this treatment program at other colleges and universities.
Properties of the Weierstrass function in the time and frequency domains

Abstract The Weierstrass function is continuous everywhere and differentiable nowhere. It is used advantageously for modeling fractally coarse media. The frequency domain expression is analyzed using the Laplace transform of a truncated Weierstrass function. The poles of this function constitute a geometric sequence on the imaginary axis of the complex frequency plane. Computer calculations show that the zeros change little as the order is increased. Theoretical development reveals the nature of the dependence of the zeros on order and the parameters of the function. The effect of the scale of observation on the function's properties is examined in both time and frequency domains.
Thermodynamics of Gaseous Hydrogen and Hydrogen Transport in Metals

The thermodynamics and kinetics of hydrogen dissolved in structural metals is often not addressed when assessing phenomena associated with hydrogen-assisted fracture. Understanding the behavior of hydrogen atoms in a metal lattice, however, is important for interpreting materials properties measured in hydrogen environments, and for designing structurally efficient components with extended lifecycles. The assessment of equilibrium hydrogen contents and hydrogen transport in steels is motivated by questions raised in the safety, codes and standards community about mixtures of gases containing hydrogen as well as the effects of stress and hydrogen trapping on the transport of hydrogen in metals. More broadly, these questions are important for enabling a comprehensive understanding of hydrogen-assisted fracture. We start by providing a framework for understanding the thermodynamics of pure gaseous hydrogen and then we extend this to treat mixtures of gases containing hydrogen. An understanding of the thermodynamics of gas mixtures is necessary for analyzing concepts for transitioning to a hydrogen-based economy that incorporate the addition of gaseous hydrogen to existing energy carrier systems such as natural gas distribution. We show that, at equilibrium, a mixture of gases containing hydrogen will increase the fugacity of the hydrogen gas, but that this increase is small for practical systems and will generally be insufficient to substantially impact hydrogen-assisted fracture. Further, the effects of stress and hydrogen trapping on the transport of atomic hydrogen in metals are considered. Tensile stress increases the amount of hydrogen dissolved in a metal and slightly increases hydrogen diffusivity. In some materials, hydrogen trapping has very little impact on hydrogen content and transport, while other materials show orders of magnitude increases of hydrogen content and reductions of hydrogen diffusivity.
Instability in total knee arthroplasty: Loose as a goose

As total knee arthroplasties last longer and are used in younger patients, as well as for a variety of other reasons, greater interest in postoperative tibiofemoral instability has developed. Initial evaluation emphasizing correlation of symptoms and findings together with elucidation of the specifics of the instability are mandatory. Gap inequality, gap asymmetry, and the causes of each are noted. Soft tissue repair or reconstruction alone has not been very successful for such instabilities. Some aspect of revision with component change is generally necessary, and some correction of alignment, gap features, and other issues, with advancement to a higher order of constraint, will generally be necessary.
Surface Breakdown Of Pre-Stressed Insulators

Aging and degradation of high voltage insulation due to applied and environmental stresses are being studied in order to predict the performance of high voltage equipment in space. Results will be presented on surface flashover measurements on commercially available polymers which have been stressed by exposure to vacuum, d.c. electric fields, and pulsed electric fields. A newly developed analysis technique using laser excited fluorescence (LEF) has been applied to analyze damage caused by flashover and aging. LEE allows analysis, on a molecular scale, of chemical and structural changes with a sensitivity much greater than previously possible. Data will be presented on the degradation due to aging before flashover occurs, as well as damage caused by flashover events.
The return of the fifties: Trends in college students' values between 1952 and 1984

Five identical surveys were carried out in 1952, 1968–1969, 1974, 1979, and 1984 among undergraduate men at Dartmouth College and the University of Michigan to measure value trends. In most value domains the trends are U-shaped, showing that the trends from the fifties to the sixties and seventies have reversed, and attitudes in 1984 were either similar to the fifties or moving in that direction. The domains include traditional religion, career choice, faith in government and the military, advocacy of social constraints on deviant social groups, attitudes about free enterprise, government and economics, sexual morality, marijuana use, and personal moral obligations. Two attitude areas do not show a return of the fifties: (1) other-direction was high in 1952, then dropped to the sixties and did not rise; (2) the level of politicization rose greatly from 1952 to the sixties, then dropped again only slightly.
Measurement of myocardial triglyceride content by magnetic resonance spectroscopy in transplant native heart autopsies

Introduction Cardiac dysfunction has been associated with excessive myocardial lipolysis in animal models. Measurements of myocardial triglycerides in humans have been performed using proton MR spectroscopy (1H-MRS) [1,2]. The measured volume is usually selected within the ventricular septum to avoid the contamination from epicardial fat and to eliminate the artifacts from cardiac motion. It is difficult to assess the spatial distribution of the fat deposition in human myocardium by 1H-MRS. Hence, whether the fat content within the septum can be generalized to represent the whole cardiac tissue remains unknown.
Interaction of a deep-water wave with a vertical cylinder: flow structure and loading

Interaction of a deep-water wave with a vertical cylinder is characterized using techniques of high-image-density particle image velocimetry, in conjunction with measurement of the transverse and in-line loading coefficients. Phase-locked patterns of locally two-dimensional vortex formation are attainable only for sufficiently high values of the Keulegan–Carpenter number KC, e.g. along the span.Taken together, the patterns of locally two-dimensional (sectional) structure and the three-dimensional structure along the span indicate a criterion for locally phase-locked quasi-two-dimensional vortex formation: it occurs when the pattern of transverse velocity is of the same sign over a significant spanwise distance along the span of the cylinder.
Flesh and Peritoneal Lining Color of Gold, Bronze, and Black Tilapia mossambica

Flesh color of gold (homozygous recessive gg), bronze (heterozygous Gg), and black (homozygous dominant GG)Tilapia mossambica was evaluated sensorily (visually). Gold fish had white flesh, while black and bronze fish had flesh that had a grayish tint. Flesh color of gold fish was significantly lighter than that of both black and bronze fish (P = 0.001). Flesh color of bronze and black fish did not differ. Peritoneal lining of the abdominal cavity of black fish is black, that of gold fish is white, and that of bronze fish is spotted and quite variable. The peritoneal lining of black fish must be removed when they are marketed whole to remove the black pigmentation, but this is not necessary with gold fish.
Influence of Simulated Double‐crested Cormorant, Phalacrocorax auritus, Predation on Multiple‐batch Production of Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus

The double-crested cormorant, Phalacrocorax auritus, is considered the primary depredating bird species on commercially produced channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, in the southeastern USA. We simulated different levels of cormorant predation on losses at harvest and economic effects on channel catfish production in a multiple-batch cropping system. We observed significant (P < 0.05) declines in catfish production at increasing levels of cormorant predation in this study. This decline was mitigated by increased individual growth of catfish at higher predation rates (i.e., lower catfish densities). This mitigating effect produced a non-linear relationship with total kg of catfish harvested per pond resulting in a non-linear incremental increase in breakeven price related to predation. Costs of production ($/kg) increased with increasing predation levels up to very high levels of predation with a cumulative maximum increase in breakeven price of $0.143/kg. These results indicate that losses at harvest due to cormorant predation occur immediately but are mitigated in part by compensatory growth of individual catfish. Losses due to cormorant predation in multi-batch systems can be considerable, but there is not a 1:1 relationship between losses and kg of catfish harvested due to compensatory factors.
Quantum magic bullets by means of entanglement

Two particles that are entangled with respect to continuous variables such as position and momentum exhibit a variety of nonclassical features. First, measurement of one particle projects the other particle into the state that is the complex conjugate of the state of the first particle; i.e., measurement of one particle projects the other particle into the time-reversed state. Second, continuous-variable entanglement can be used to implement a quantum magic bullet: When one particle manages to pass through a scattering potential, then, no matter how low the probability of this event, the second particle will also pass through a related scattering potential with probability 1. This phenomenon is investigated in terms of the original Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen state, and experimental realizations are suggested in terms of entangled photon states.
Engineering model of a passive planar air breathing fuel cell cathode

The behavior of an air breathing fuel cell (ABFC) operated on dry-hydrogen in dead-ended mode is studied using theoretical analysis. A one-dimensional, non-isothermal, combined heat and mass transport model is developed that captures the coupling between water generation, oxygen consumption, self-heating and natural convection at the air breathing cathode. The model is validated against planar ABFC experimental measurements over a range of ambient temperatures. The model confirms the strong effect of self-heating on the water balance within passive ABFCs. Model analysis provides several conclusions: (1) thermal runaway caused by inadequate heat rejection predominantly limits ABFC performance. (2) The natural convection boundary layer represents a significant barrier to cathode mass and heat transfer. (3) Because the mass and heat transport numbers associated with natural convection are small, even slight forced convection dramatically affects cell behavior. (4) Performance optimization requires maximizing heat rejection while minimizing flooding. Decoupling the latter two phenomena is challenging due to the exponential relationship between water vapor saturation and temperature.
Data-driven modelling of receptor tyrosine kinase signalling networks quantifies receptor-specific potencies of PI3K- and Ras-dependent ERK activation

Signal transduction networks in mammalian cells, comprising a limited set of interacting biochemical pathways, are accessed by various growth factor and cytokine receptors to elicit distinct cell responses. This raises the question as to how specificity of the stimulus–response relationship is encoded at the molecular level. It has been proposed that specificity arises not only from the activation of unique signalling pathways, but also from quantitative differences in the activation and regulation of shared receptor-proximal signalling proteins. To address such hypotheses, data sets with greater precision and coverage of experimental conditions will need to be acquired, and rigorous frameworks that codify and parameterize the inherently non-linear relationships among signalling activities will need to be developed. In the present study we apply a systematic approach combining quantitative measurements and mathematical modelling to compare the signalling networks accessed by FGF (fibroblast growth factor) and PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor) receptors in mouse fibroblasts, in which the ERK (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase) cascade is activated by Ras- and PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase)-dependent pathways. We show that, whereas the FGF stimulation of PI3K signalling is relatively weak, this deficiency is compensated for by a more potent Ras-dependent activation of ERK. Thus, as the modelling would predict, the ERK pathway is activated to a greater extent in cells co-stimulated with FGF and PDGF, relative to the saturated levels achieved with either ligand alone. It is envisaged that similar approaches will prove valuable in the elucidation of quantitative differences among other closely related receptor signalling networks.
SOCIAL SECURITY RECONSIDERED

Social Security is currently much in the news because it faces a projected funding gap, because of overall budget defi cits, and because of doubts in some quarters about its design. Minor adjustments are suffi cient to close the funding gap. Benefi t cuts, even if considered desirable, would not help close the overall budget gap in a timely way. Some adjustments in Social Security benefi ts and fi nancing are desirable, but large scale changes would be disruptive and would not well serve the program’s basic purposes — to provide assured, basic income to retirees, the disabled, and survivors — unless they more or less replicated the current program.
The importance of constructing and validating risk assessment instruments in community corrections settings

Since the late 1970s, agencies responsible for supervising offenders in the community have used assessment instruments as a way to classify offenders according to levels of risk and need. This, in ...
Liver Iron Stores in Patients With Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus

Background Iron overload such as that in idiopathic hemochromatosis is a well-established, albeit rare, cause of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Most patients with NIDDM have no recognized cause of their disease. Investigators have proposed that subclinical iron overload may cause diabetes mellitus in a substantial number of patients with NIDDM. Objective The aim of the current study was to evaluate hepatic iron stores in autopsy specimens from a group of community residents with NEDDM. Methods Fifteen patients with NIDDM and 17 age-matched control subjects were identified from a review of medical records of deceased residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota. Formalin-fixed liver tissue was analyzed for iron concentration by flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and distribution of hepatic iron was determined histochemically. Results No significant difference was found in either the distribution or the mean amount of hepatic iron between the diabetic and the control group (1,303 versus 1,349 μg Fe/g dry weight; P = 0.87). Thus, the mean difference was −46 μg Fe/g dry weight (confidence interval, −631 to 540). Conclusion Because hepatic iron quantification is the definitive means of assessing total body iron stores, our results suggest that NIDDM is typically not associated with a substantial level of iron overload.
Optimizing the balance between host and environmental survival skills: lessons learned from Listeria monocytogenes.

Environmental pathogens – organisms that survive in the outside environment but maintain the capacity to cause disease in mammals – navigate the challenges of life in habitats that range from water and soil to the cytosol of host cells. The bacterium Listeria monocytogenes has served for decades as a model organism for studies of host–pathogen interactions and for fundamental paradigms of cell biology. This ubiquitous saprophyte has recently become a model for understanding how an environmental bacterium switches to life within human cells. This review describes how L. monocytogenes balances life in disparate environments with the help of a critical virulence regulator known as PrfA. Understanding L. monocytogenes survival strategies is important for gaining insight into how environmental microbes become pathogens.
Distribution of conductance for Anderson insulators: A theory with a single parameter

We obtain an analytic expression for the full distribution of conductance for a strongly disordered threedimensional conductor within a perturbative approach based on transfer-matrix formulation. Our results confirm the numerical evidence that the log-normal limit of the distribution is not reached even in the deeply insulating regime. We show that the variance of the logarithm of the conductance scales as a fractional power of the mean, while the skewness changes sign as one approaches the Anderson metal-insulator transition from the deeply insulating limit, all described as a function of a single parameter. The approach suggests a possible single parameter description of the Anderson transition that takes into account the full nontrivial distribution of conductance.
A broadband, multi-channel source-receive array for ocean acoustics research

A new broadband source-receive array (SRA) has been developed at the SIO Marine Physical Laboratory for use in acoustics research experiments at sea. The SRA specifically was designed for the investigation of acoustic propagation perturbations caused by environmental fluctuations and MIMO (multiple-input/multiple-output) acoustic data communications research over the 10 to 32 kHz frequency band. The technical details of the transducer array and transmitting/recording electronics as well as a description of the different deployment configurations are provided. In addition, the use of the SRA in acoustic data communications research is discussed. Specifically, deployment of the system as a source array during the KAM08 (Kauai Acomms MURI 2008) Experiment is described along with examples of data transmissions from the 52.5 m aperture source array (7.5 m element spacing) deployed in 110 m deep water immediately west of Kauai.
Body Composition and Nutrition Support in Pediatrics: What to Defend and How Soon to Begin

Specialized nutrition support is initiated during hospital care on the assumption that sparing the mobilization of body energy reserves is advantageous to recovery. The combined effects of disease and undernutrition on body cell mass, organ function, immune responsiveness, and wound healing are well documented in adults. Children cannot survive a fast as long as adults because of their lesser stores of energy substrates relative to the rate of energy expenditure. The present contribution attempts to estimate the rates of compositional losses for infants and prepubertal children on the basis of available data and reasonable metabolic assumptions. The lesson that emerges from this exercise is one of a very critical need for the early initiation of nutrition support for infants and children. The analysis suggests that an acute risk of protein depletion exists for children of all ages. Especially for infants, the empirical wisdom that "the absence of evidence is not evidence of absence" should be invoked to support early nutrition intervention. This work is submitted for critical review and revision to establish a consensus on the timeline of pediatric morbidity or mortality from semistarvation or starvation.
A wireless batteryless deep-seated implantable ultrasonic pulser-receiver powered by magnetic coupling

This study tests a deep-seated implantable ultrasonic pulser-receiver, powered wirelessly by magnetic coupling. A 30-cm energy-transmitting coil was designed to wrap around the body, and was driven by a current of 1.2 A rms at a frequency of 5.7 MHz to generate a magnetic field. A 2-cm receiving coil was positioned at the center of the primary coil for receiving the magnetic energy and powering the implantable device. A capacitor-diode voltage multiplier in the implantable circuit was used to step-up the receiving coil voltage from 12.5 to 50 V to operate an ultrasonic pulser. FEA magnetic field simulations, bench-top, and ex vivo rabbit measurements showed that the magnetic energy absorption in body tissue is negligible and that the magnetic coupling is not sensitive to receiving coil placement. The receiving coil and the power conditioning circuits in the implantable device do not contain ferromagnetic material, so a magnetic-resonance-compatible device can be achieved. A 5-MHz ultrasound transducer was used to test the implantable circuit, operating in pulse-echo mode. The received echo was amplified, envelope-detected, frequency-modulated, and transmitted out of the rabbit body by a radio wave. The modulated echo envelope signal was received by an external receiver located about 10 cm away from the primary coil. The study concludes that operation of a batteryless and wireless deep-seated implantable ultrasonic pulser-receiver powered by coplanar magnetic coupling is feasible.
Analysis of routing characteristics in the multicast infrastructure

As the multicast-capable part of the Internet continues to evolve, important questions to ask are whether the protocols are operating correctly, the topology is well connected, and the routes are stable. A critical step in being able to answer these questions is to monitor the traffic and network operation. In this paper, we analyze characteristics of the multicast infrastructure over the last three years using monitoring data collected from several key routers. Specifically, we focus on analyzing two characteristics of the infrastructure: size and stability. The size analysis focuses on counting the number of connected hosts and networks, and analyzing how the size of the infrastructure has changed over past three years. Second, the stability analysis focuses on examining persistence, prevalence, and visibility of routes across the topology. From our analyses, we identify a number of problems with multicast routing and their effect on the connectivity of certain multicast networks. Moreover, we offer insight into the evolution and future of multicast in the Internet.