Bayesian latent class models for capture-recapture in the presence of missing data.

We propose a method for estimating the size of a population in a multiple record system in the presence of missing data. The method is based on a latent class model where the parameters and the latent structure are estimated using a Gibbs sampler. The proposed approach is illustrated through the analysis of a data set already known in the literature, which consists of five registrations of neural tube defects.

The application of conducting polymers to a biorobotic fin propulsor.

Conducting polymer actuators based on polypyrrole are being developed for use in biorobotic fins that are designed to create and control forces like the pectoral fin of the bluegill sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus). It is envisioned that trilayer bending actuators will be used within, and as, the fin's webbing to create a highly controllable, shape morphing, flexible fin surface, and that linear conducting polymer actuators will be used to actuate the bases of the fin's fin-rays, like an agonist-antagonist muscle pair, and control the fin's stiffness. For this application, trilayer bending actuators were used successfully to reproduce the cupping motion of the sunfish pectoral fin by controlling the curvature of the fin's surface and the motion of its dorsal and ventral edges.

Effect of low zinc diet on (65)Zn turnover in non-insulin dependent diabetic mice.

Objective: To investigate the effect of low-Zn diet on (65)Zn turnover and content in non-insulin dependent diabetes (NIDDM).

Material And Methods: Male 8-9 weeks old, genetically diabetic mice (C57BL/KsJdb/db) and non-diabetic heterozygote litter-mates (C57BL/KsJdb/+) were fed on a diet containing 1 mg zinc/kg (low-zinc groups) or 54 mg zinc/kg (control groups), and injected subcutaneously with (65)Zn. Body weight gain was recorded regularly, whereas (65)Zn body loss was measured by whole-body counting in the two mouse genotypes over a 28 days period.