We introduce the new concept of elastic block ciphers, symmetrickey encryption algorithms that (1) for a variable-size input do not expand the plaintext (i.e., do not require plaintext padding) and (2) adjust their computational load proportionally to the size increase. Contrary to stream ciphers, elastic block ciphers maintain the diffusion property and non-synchronicity of traditional block c...

Based on Rayleigh beam theory, the sub-impacts of a free-free beam struck horizontally by a round-nosed rigid mass is simulated by the finite difference method and the impact-separation conditions. In order to obtain the sub-impact force, a uniaxial compression elastic-plastic contact model is employed to analyze the local deformation field on contact zone. It is found that the horizontal impac...

Consider the Sturm-Liouville problem on a finite interval with Dirichlet boundary conditions. Let the elastic modulus and the density be of bounded variation. Results for both the forward problem and the inverse problem are established. For the forward problem, new bounds are established for the eigenfrequencies. The bounds are sharp. For the inverse problem, it is shown that the elastic modulu...

This study investigates the effect of particle size on the compression characteristics of wet- (fluid-bed granulation - FBG) and dry-granulated (slugging - DGS) tableting mixtures. Particle-size distribution, flowability, compressibility, using the Heckel and Walker model, compactibility and elastic recovery as well as friability and disintegration were determined and compared between the two p...

High-speed melt spinning of a cyclo-olefin polymer (COP) and a copolyamide (CoPA) have been performed. Differential scanning calorimetry curves of the resulting monofilaments show that they remain in an amorphous state even after hot drawing. Wide angle x-ray diffraction patterns of undrawn and drawn COP filaments show that although the material remains in an amorphous state, a degree of orient...

Failures in optical networks are inevitable. They may occur during work being done for the maintenance of other infrastructures, or on a larger scale as the result of an attack or large-scale disaster. As a result, service availability, an important aspect of Quality of Service (QoS), is often degraded. Appropriate fault recovery techniques are thus crucial to meet the requirements set by the S...

Matrix metalloprotease (MMP) activity is increased in the postpartum vagina of wild-type (WT) animals. This degradative activity is also accompanied by a burst in elastic fiber synthesis and assembly. The mechanisms that precipitate these changes are unclear. The goals of this study were to determine how vaginal distention (such as in parturition) affects elastic fiber homeostasis in the vagina...