cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relationships among autogamous species of Cuphea P. Browne section Brachyandra (Lythraceae)

Section Brachyandra, one of 13 sections of Cuphea, is exceptional in comprising the majority of self-fertilizing species in the genus; most other Cuphea, although self-compatible, are protandrous outcrossers. The section is defined by presence of stamens with short filaments deeply inserted in the floral tube, characters directly tied to autogamy. There are few differences in floral morphology among the species and vegetative features arc variable and overlapping. The close similarities may be attributed to recent speciation within a monophyletic group that is defined by the acquisition of this reproductive mode, or the section may be polyphyletic, with the similarities the results of convergence driven by the change from outcrossing to selling. Seed and pollen morphology, previously undescribed in this group, suggest that sect. Brachyandra is not monophyletic but comprises a minimum of three different evolutionary lines: 1) four species with winged seeds and oblate, syncolporate, striated pollen with protruding pores; 2) two species with large non-winged seeds and psilate pollen without protruding pores and with slight interaperturate thickenings; 3) eight species with small non-winged seeds and nearly spheroidal, non-syncolporate, psilate to rugulate pollen. Variation in thc last group suggests it is derived from more than one ancestor. In cladistic analysis, the species of section Brachyandra occur wilhin clades of species from sections Euandra, Pseudocircaea, Trispennuin, and Amazoniana. Results indicate that there is no sound phylogenetic basis for continued recognition of sect. Brachyandra as it is prcsently defined.
Empirical evidence of causality from consumer to wholesale prices

Abstract This paper examines the causal relationship between consumer and producer price changes. The Sims and Granger causality tests are used to test for causality between consumer and producer prices. Both tests support the hypothesis of causality from consumer to producer prices. This suggests that the estimated parameters of a one-sided lag structure, which assumes the conventional wisdom of producer price changes leading consumer price changes, may be biased and inconsistent.
Allosteric Regulation of DNA Cleavage and Sequence-Specificity through Run-On Oligomerization

Summary SgrAI is a sequence specific DNA endonuclease that functions through an unusual enzymatic mechanism that is allosterically activated 200- to 500-fold by effector DNA, with a concomitant expansion of its DNA sequence specificity. Using single-particle transmission electron microscopy to reconstruct distinct populations of SgrAI oligomers, we show that in the presence of allosteric, activating DNA, the enzyme forms regular, repeating helical structures characterized by the addition of DNA-binding dimeric SgrAI subunits in a run-on manner. We also present the structure of oligomeric SgrAI at 8.6 A resolution, demonstrating the conformational state of SgrAI in its activated form. Activated and oligomeric SgrAI displays key protein-protein interactions near the helix axis between its N termini, as well as allosteric protein-DNA interactions that are required for enzymatic activation. The hybrid approach reveals an unusual mechanism of enzyme activation that explains SgrAI's oligomerization and allosteric behavior.
Globetrotting: African American Athletes and Cold War Politics

Damion Thomas has authored a much-needed work on race, the Cold War and African American athletes. The examination of both the American and Soviets states' uses of popular culture for international...
Multivariate analysis of feeding relationships of fishes in blackwater streams

The autumnal diets of 23 fish species in 9 families from South Carolina blackwater streams were characterized by rank order statistics and analyzed by detrended correspondence analysis (DCA). DCA ordinations of fishes and their food items indicate two primary gradients. The first axis contrasts fine particle feeders and omnivores (Catostomidae, some cyprinids) eating algae, detritus, microcrustacea and bivalves, with predators(Anguilla, Esox, largeAmeiurus) on decapods and vertebrates. The second is a gradient from benthic feeders (percid darters,Noturus catfishes) with varied invertebrate diets, to taxa (Gambusia, some cyprinids and centrarchids) feeding at the surface. With increasing size, fishes shift to larger prey and increased surface feeding. Much of the trophic differentiation within the assemblage reflects diversification at generic and family levels. DCA is an effective method for summarizing trophic relations in diverse assemblages.
Inelastic Scattering of Electrons by Helium

Bethe-Goldstone continuum equations for the scattering of electrons from helium are solved variationally in the energy range between the $n=2$ and $n=3$ thresholds. Polarization and correlation effects are included in the calculations by allowing for virtual excitation of the $2s$ electron. Shape resonances are found above the $2^{3}S$ threshold, in substantial agreement with close-coupling calculations of Burke, Cooper, and Ormonde. Structures observed immediately below the $3^{3}S$ threshold in experimental cross sections for metastable formation are attributed to several Feshbach resonances whose energies and widths are computed. Cross sections are presented for elastic and inelastic scattering involving the ground state and $n=2$ states of helium. Cusp behavior, expected at various inelastic thresholds and found in the variational calculations, accounts for several prominent structural features in the scattering cross sections. The present computed results are compared with previous theoretical studies and, wherever possible, with experimental data.
There is Limited Evidence to Support the Effectiveness of Dental Lasers in the Removal of Caries Compared With Rotary Burs

Article Title and Bibliographic Information Application of laser technology for removal of caries: a systematic review of controlled clinical trials. Jacobson T, Norlund A, Sandborgh G, Tranaeus S. Acta Odontol Scand 2011;69:65-74. Reviewers Sonia K. Makhija, DDS, MPH, Mona F. Anabtawi, DDS, MS Purpose/Question To evaluate the scientific evidence regarding laser technology for removal of carious tissue Source of Funding Information is not available Type of Study/Design Systematic review Level of Evidence Level 2: Limited-quality, patient-oriented evidence Strength of Recommendation Grade Grade B: Inconsistent or limited-quality patient-oriented evidence
Structure-based design of potent, amidine-derived inhibitors of factor Xa: evaluation of selectivity, anticoagulant activity, and antithrombotic activity.

To enhance the potency of 1,2-dibenzamidobenzene-derived inhibitors of factor Xa (fXa), an amidine substituent was incorporated on one of the benzoyl side chains to interact with Asp189 in the S1 specificity pocket. Lead molecule 1 was docked into the active site of fXa to facilitate inhibitor design. Subsequently, iterative SAR studies and molecular modeling led to a 1000-fold increase in fXa affinity and a refined model of the new inhibitors in the fXa active site. Strong support for the computational model was achieved through the acquisition of an X-ray crystal structure using thrombin as a surrogate protein. The amidines in this series show high levels of selectivity for the inhibition of fXa relative to other trypsin-like serine proteases. Furthermore, the fXa affinity of compounds in this series (Kass = 50−500 × 106 L/mol) translates effectively into both anticoagulant activity in vitro and antithrombotic activity in vivo.
Investigating New Techniques for Developing Meaningful Models of Knowledge Work

With the proliferation of networked digital technologies and the concurrent fragmentation of work in globalized business organizations, knowledge work is developing along complex lines that are not accounted for adequately in our literature. The field of technical communication, for example, is being redefined as its professionals are articulated to work practices that did not exist months earlier. In an attempt to provide a principled means for making sense of such knowledge work, this paper reports on an ongoing effort to develop new techniques for creating meaningful models of work today. The paper offers an overview of this research and suggests ways that this investigation will be pursued in the future.
Electrically Pumped Edge-Emitting Photonic Crystal Lasers with Angled Facets

We demonstrate electrically pumped large-area edge-emitting InGaAsP/InP two-dimensional photonic crystal lasers with angled facets at room temperature. The laser uses a weak index perturbation surface photonic crystal structure to control optical modes in the wafer plane. Measurements of the laser spectra show that the modal selection is due to satisfying the Bragg resonance conditions in both the longitudinal and the transverse directions. The lasing wavelength is tuned lithographically by changing photonic crystal lattice constants. We demonstrate a fine lasing wavelength tuning sensitivity (change of lasing wavelength over change of lattice constant) of 0.08 through the transverse lattice constant tuning.
The distribution of forces in a perturbed system of self-gravitating point masses

Abstract This paper analyses the effect of introducing random perturbations δ r in the positions r of each member of a self-gravitating system of point masses. Exact and approximate expressions are derived for the bivariant probability density W ( F, f that a given test particle at some point r 0 feel a total unperturbed force F and a perturbation f . Analysis of this W ( F, f supports the prediction that close encounters and the bulk mean field should be of comparable importance in determining the response of the system to an initial perturbation.
Electrothermal model of switching in amorphous boron and silicon thin films

Abstract Observation of the times involved in one switching cycle and the location of the conducting filament formed suggests a mechanism for switching. It is postulated that joule heating in the sample interior predetermines high conducting (avalanche) paths which in turn lead to RC discharge and filament formation.
Multiscale structure of UXO site characterization: spatial estimation and uncertainty quantification

Unexploded ordnance (UXO) site characterization must consider both how the contamination is generated and how we observe that contamination. Within the generation and observation processes, dependence structures can be exploited at multiple scales. We describe a conceptual site characterization process, the dependence structures available at several scales, and consider their statistical estimation aspects. It is evident that most of the statistical methods that are needed to address the estimation problems are known but their application-specific implementation may not be available. We demonstrate estimation at one scale and propose a representation for site contamination intensity that takes full account of uncertainty, is flexible enough to answer regulatory requirements, and is a practical tool for managing detailed spatial site characterization and remediation. The representation is based on point process spatial estimation methods that require modern computational resources for practical application. These methods have provisions for including prior and covariate information.
Modelling nanoscale fluid dynamics and transport in physiological flows

The concept of nanotechnology is discussed, and its connection with biomedical engineering is elucidated. For the specific field of nanoscale flow and transport problems of physiological relevance, some typical examples are presented, and their interaction is discussed for some classic biomechanical problems like the flow in arteries with blood-wall coupling. Then, existing computational models are presented and classified according to the length scale of interest, with emphasis on particle-fluid problems. Final remarks address the essential unity of biomedical and engineering behaviour and the possible relevance to small-scale industrial research.
Transplantation of pulmonary valve using a mouse model of heterotopic heart transplantation.

Tissue engineered heart valves, especially decellularized valves, are starting to gain momentum in clinical use of reconstructive surgery with mixed results. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the neotissue development, valve thickening, and stenosis development are not researched extensively. To answer the above questions, we developed a murine heterotopic heart valve transplantation model. A heart valve was harvested from a valve donor mouse and transplanted to a heart donor mouse. The heart with a new valve was transplanted heterotopically to a recipient mouse. The transplanted heart showed its own heartbeat, independent of the recipient’s heartbeat. The blood flow was quantified using a high frequency ultrasound system with a pulsed wave Doppler. The flow through the implanted pulmonary valve showed forward flow with minimal regurgitation and the peak flow was close to 100 mm/sec. This murine model of heart valve transplantation is highly versatile, so it can be modified and adapted to provide different hemodynamic environments and/or can be used with various transgenic mice to study neotissue development in a tissue engineered heart valve.
On the mechanism of multiplet CIDEP in radical ion pairs.

It is shown that multiplet chemically induced dynamic electron polarization (CIDEP) in radical ion pairs is unlikely to be caused by electron spin exchange (J>0), unless the rate of electron transfer is slowed down either by exciplex formation or by a low Franck-Condon factor. In radical ion pairs for which the electron transfer is efficient, the electron tunnels prior to the spin exchange, and the multiplet CIDEP is due to dipole-dipole interactions of electron spins. The corresponding polarization factor is of the order of several Boltzmann units. In appearance, such a polarization is similar to the usual exchange-induced multiplet CIDEP at J. It is concluded that the long-range dipole-dipole interaction caused a ‘J>0’ multiplet CIDEP in all the pairs that involved a solvated electron as a partner.
Finding the high-risk patient with coronary artery disease.

To the Editor.— Dr Cheitlin 1 deserves our thanks and commendations for his recent excellent review of risk stratification in patients with coronary artery disease. His proposed diagnostic algorithm is straightforward and appears very practical. However, certain aspects of Table 1 of his article, which compares the various techniques available for risk stratification, need further clarification. Positron-emitting isotopes are usually obtained from a cyclotron (charged-particle accelerator), not from a breeder reactor as stated in the table. Breeder reactors, which utilize fast neutrons to produce large amounts of electricity from uranium with high efficiency, have not been as widely used as the more familiar thermal or slow-neutron nuclear reactors. This is due to justified concerns over safety problems with the more unstable breeder reactors. Cyclotrons have been safely employed in the extensive production of radioisotopes for decades, and carry none of the meltdown risks of breeder reactors. Placing radionuclide wall motion
Design of an improved 2-stator watt-hour meter

An improved design of 2-stator polyphase watt-hour meter is described in which low rotor speed is utilized to give improved performance over extended load and voltage ranges. Fundamental performance equations are derived to show how this improved performance is attained.
Correlation of morphology and electrical properties of nanoscale TiSi2 epitaxial islands on Si (001)

Abstract The morphology and electrical properties of nanoscale epitaxial islands of TiSi 2 are explored. The TiSi 2 islands are prepared by ultra-high vacuum (UHV) deposition of ultra-thin Ti (0.3–2 nm) on both smooth and roughened Si (001) substrates. The roughened substrates are prepared by etching with atomic H produced in a plasma. The island formation is initiated by annealing to 800–1000°C. The morphologies of the substrate before and after island formation are examined by atomic force microscopy (AFM). In particular, the influence of surface-roughness on both the formation of islands and the size distribution of islands is investigated. Islands with a lateral dimension of ~35 nm and a vertical dimension of ~2.5 nm on a roughened substrate (RMS=12 nm) were observed, with a uniform distribution of 120 nm spacing between the islands. It was found that for similar processing conditions the size distribution of islands formed on a rough surface was smaller than islands formed on smooth surfaces. The results are discussed in terms of surface energy, diffusion and the strain field around the islands. The island structures can affect the electrical characteristics of the interface and the Schottky barrier was obtained from diodes formed with a Pt layer deposited over the islanded interface. The Schottky barrier was lowest for interfaces with the smaller TiSi 2 islands.
Lorentz microscopy and spatial filtering

Abstract The formation of Lorentz contrast from the thin ferromagnetic film in the transmission electron microscope is studied via the methods of spatial filtering. The techniques of Foucault and phase contrast from the domain wall, and the Zernike mode and high- or low-pass filtering for ripple images, are investigated. Results are given which establish the validity and usefulness of the approach.
Why do low-income minority parents choose human papillomavirus vaccination for their daughters?

Objective To explore low-income minority parents' attitudes, intentions, and actions with regard to human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for their daughters. Study design Semistructured interviews were conducted in English and Spanish with parents of girls aged 11-18 who were attending clinic visits in an urban medical center and a community health center. We assessed intention with formal scales, probed parents' attitudes regarding vaccination with open-ended questions, and reviewed medical records to determine vaccination rates. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative methods. Results Seventy-six parents participated (43% African American, 28% Latino, and 26% Caucasian). Most were mothers, had completed high school, and described themselves as religious; nearly one-half were immigrants. Intention correlated highly with receipt of the vaccine; 91% of parents intended to vaccinate their daughters against HPV, and 89% of the girls received vaccination within 12 months of the interview. Qualitative analysis revealed that most parents focused on the vaccine's potential to prevent cervical cancer. Some parents expressed concerns about unknown side effects and promotion of unsafe sexual practices, but these concerns did not hinder acceptance in most cases. Conclusions The majority of the low-income minority parents surveyed viewed HPV vaccination as a way to protect their daughters from cancer, and thus chose to vaccinate their daughters.
Abstract 3115: Role of nuclear coactivator AIB1 in endothelial cell function and angiogenesis

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL The nuclear receptor coactivator oncogene AIB1 (Amplified In Breast Cancer 1) has a clearly defined role in steroid and growth factor signaling in epithelial cells of cancers. Recently, we have demonstrated that AIB1 is functionally required for HER2-mediated mammary tumorigenesis in MMTV/Neu mouse model for breast cancer through regulation of HER2 phosphorylation and signaling. Generation of neu/HER2 transgenic mice with either loss of one or both copies of the AIB1 gene resulted in reduced or complete abolition of mammary tumor development, respectively. One very interesting aspect of this study was that the tumors that arose in HER2 AIB1 HET (+/-) mice were phenotypically different from those in HER2 AIB1 WT (+/+) mice in that they were smaller, more necrotic and significantly less vascularized. This data indicated to us the possibility that the role of AIB1 was not confined to the mammary epithelium proliferation but also had major effects on the surrounding stromal cells. In addition, recent expression array data indicated that AIB1 is also overexpressed in human breast cancer stroma which includes the endothelium. In here, we examined the role of AIB1 in endothelial cell function. We demonstrate that reduction of AIB1 levels in endothelial cells cultured in vitro prevents their ability to form endothelial tubes, in conjuction with reduced proliferation and motility. Furthermore, in ECIS (Electric Cell-substrate Impedance Sensing) assay, HUVEC cells with low AIB1 expression loss the ability to form a monolayer on the surface of gold-film electrodes. Consistent with the reduced proliferation that we observed, cDNA array analysis that compared gene expression patterns of HUVEC cells +/- AIB1 shRNA indicates that a number of key cell cycle regulatory genes and cytokines were regulated by reduction in AIB1 levels. Overall these data describe a new role for nuclear receptor coactivator AIB1 in the endothelium. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3115. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-3115
The permeability and compressibility of aligned and cross‐plied carbon fiber beds during processing of composites

Two of the most important input parameters needed to simulate the processing of continuous fiber laminated composites are the fiber bed permeability and the portion of the autoclave load borne by the consolidating fiber network (compressibility). In this study we have experimentally examined how both these parameter change with resin volume fraction as pressure is applied and consolidation proceeds. For a unidirectional fiber bed, the Kozeny-Carman equation can be used to predict both the transverse (perpendicular to the laminate plies) permeability (Kozeny constant, K′z = 11) and the axial (parallel to the fibers) permeability (Kozeny constant, K′X = 0.57). The axial permeability was found to be dependent on the surface tension of the permeant. For a unidirectionally aligned fiber, the measured transverse permeabilities varied from 1.1 × 10−10 cm2 to 12. × 10−9 cm2 while the axial values varied from 2.1 × 10−9 to 4.4 × 10−8 cm2 for a liquid volume fraction range of 0.25 to 0.5. Axial permeability measurements indicate that the permeability decreases with increasing off-axis angle × (measured from the laminate axial direction). The off-axis permeability behavior can be described by a modified Kozeny-Carman equation. The fiber network compressibility can be described with a logarithmic relation which has been found valid for a large number of consolidated soils.
Globalization, Language, and the Tongue-Tied American: A Textual Analysis of American Discourses on the Global Hegemony of English

How is English in the global context constructed in the print media discourse of American-owned prestige press newspapers? The author zeroes in on examples of explicit reflection on the American “situation” vis-a-vis the global hegemony of English. These were drawn from a 275-text data pool generated for the author’s recently published doctoral dissertation. A number of different themes emerged in the texts and excerpts analyzed here, most prominently that of English monolingualism as potentially compromising American national security and economic competitiveness. Several texts also focused on a great paradox: tremendous American linguistic diversity and widespread English monolingualism in the United States. Perhaps the most interesting theme that emerged was what the author terms wistful regret: Americans reflecting with considerable melancholy on how they saw the hegemony of English as inhibiting their incentive and opportunity to become multilingual.
Acceleration techniques for an aeroelastic Euler method for a hovering rotor

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methodologies for rotors usually do not permit the rotor to deflect during analysis. However, these deflections do occur in the physical domain and can affect the performance of the rotor. By coupling a Euler code and a structural beam model, these deflections have been incorporated into a CFD simulation. The implementation of the structural beam model is straightforward and can be applied to existing CFD methodologies without extensive effort. However, the cost of the tightly coupled simulation is prohibitive. Techniques to accelerate the convergence of these methods for the quasisteady hover condition are explored. The methods include application of a loosely coupled aeroelastic methodology (vs a tightly coupled methodology), implementation of the full structural deflections using larger update intervals for methodology stability, application of relaxation factors to the full structural deflections, and application of blade deflections predicted by lower-order aerodynamic methods for initial deflections. All of these methods showed some merit, as discussed fully in this article. Aeroelastic analyses with surface deflection updates every 20 iterations provide results that are within 90% of the more expensive tightly coupled analysis results. These methods, while applied to rotors, are also pertinent for fixed-wing applications.
Two-dimensional protein separation by microcolumn size-exclusion chromatography-capillary zone electrophoresis

Abstract A two-dimensional separation system for the study of proteins consisting of size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) is presented. The SEC separation was carried out in a 1 m × 250 μm I.D. microcolumn. The effluent from this SEC microcolumn filled a sample loop on a computer controlled 6-port valve. The contents of this loop were swept past the grounded end of the CZE capillary for electromigration injection. Detection was by on-line UV detection at 214 nm. The system was initially tested with protein test mixtures, then was used to analyze human, horse and bovine sera. Data are presented as three-dimensional chromatoelectropherograms and grayscale images.
The effects of local labour market conditions on welfare programme participation

A fractional imputation method is applied to Iowa administrative data to deal with a problem of missing data. The effects of local labour market conditions and mobility of household heads on Family Investment Program (FIP) participation are evaluated. Results show that mobility increases the opportunity for employment and decreases the FIP participation rate for low-income families. An increase in predicted unemployment rates decreases labour force participation and increases programme participation; an increase in unpredicted unemployment rates increases labour force participation and decreases programme participation. Overall, the effects are relatively larger in rural areas than in nonrural areas in Iowa.
Scanning near-field infrared microscope with a free electron laser illumination source

We have developed a scanning near-field infrared microscope (SNIM) that utilizes the Stanford picosecond free electron laser as its illumination source. Infrared spectroscopy is a sensitive technique for characterizing materials. However, the spatial resolution of conventional infrared microscopy is limited to a few micrometers due to diffraction. The SNIM overcomes this limitation by using infrared near-field optics to obtain sub-wavelength resolution. The system is built around a near-field scanning optical microscope (NSOM) head, in which a tapered infrared transmitting fiber is mounted as the scanning probe. The Stanford picosecond free electron laser, which provides high power infrared radiation with a wavelength that is continuously tunable from 3 to 15 micrometers, is then coupled to the fiber. In combination with the FEL, the SNIM can obtain infrared spectra of localized regions smaller than one micrometer and acquire images at a chosen wavelength with sub-micrometer resolution. The most promising aspect of SNIM is in the development of 'vibrational nanospectroscopy.' Images have been obtained of biological tissue such as kidney sections using the intrinsic amide absorption in the tissue proteins to provide contrast, instead of relying on an externally introduce stain or marker. Images of lithographically patterned semiconductor samples have also been obtained, revealing subsurface features in gallium arsenide.
Correlation between the glucose clamp technique and the homeostasis model assessment in hypertension

The homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) has been extensively used as a reliable surrogate marker for measuring insulin resistance in patients with diabetes mellitus and in normal subjects. Comparative data in another insulin resistance state, hypertension, is lacking. The goal of the present study was to obtain that information by testing the correlation of HOMA with the euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp in 36 hypertensive and 27 normotensive subjects. Clamp-derived insulin sensitivity was calculated as the glucose disposal rate over steady-state plasma insulin concentration. Homeostasis model assessment was computed using the formula (fasting glucose x fasting insulin)/22.5. There was significant correlation between the clamp and HOMA for both the hypertensive (r = -0.64, P < .0001) and normotensive subjects (r = -0.58, P = .002). The HOMA can be used reliably as a less expensive and less cumbersome alternative for measuring insulin resistance in hypertension.
Systematic Review of Articles Describing Experience and Supports of Individuals with Autism Enrolled in College and University Programs

The increase in the number of higher-func- tioning individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is likely to lead to an increased interest in postsecondary opportunities including degree-granting college and uni- versity programs. To provide an understanding of the current evidence-base for supporting individuals with ASD in higher education, this article reports the results of a systematic review of the literature concerning college students with ASD. Overall, 20 articles describing 69 individuals met the inclusion criteria. This small number of articles and participants indicates the scarcity of research on this topic and only two of these studies were experi- mental in nature. These studies described a video-self modeling intervention and a counseling intervention respectively. Eighteen ''case studies'' were also present in the literature that described difficulties ranging from anx- iety to housing concerns. This review deliniates the limi- tation of our understanding of effective college programming for individuals with ASD.
The Precipitation of Asthma by Upper Respiratory Infections

A number of important mechanisms have been identified by which viruses can provoke asthma. From the data available, there does not appear to be one single mechanism available to explain virus-induced asthma. The relationship between viral URIs and asthma is complex and involves many organ systems: airway epithelium, autonomic nervous system control, and the immediate hypersensitivity system. Identifying the effects of respiratory viruses on airway function remains an important undertaking as we try to better understand and control this precipitant of asthma.
On the degree of multivariate Bernstein polynomial operators

Abstract Let σ be a d -dimensional simplex with vertices v 0 , ..., v d and B n (ƒ,·) denote the n th degree Bernstein polynomial of a continuous function ƒ on σ. Dahmen and Micchelli ( Stud. Sci. Hungar. 23 (1988), 265-287) proved that B n (ƒ,·) ≥ B n +1 (ƒ,·), n ∈ N , for any convex function ƒ on σ, and it is clear that a necessary and sufficient condition for the inequality to become an identity for all n ∈ N is that ƒ is an affine polynomial. Let σ m be the m th simplicial subdivision of σ (which will be defined precisely later). By using a degree-raising formula, the result of Dahmen and Micchelli can be extended to B mn (ƒ,·), ≥ B mn +1 (ƒ,·), n ∈ N , for any which is convex on every cell of σ m . The objective of this paper is to derive conditions under which this inequality becomes an identity.
Microvoid growth and failure in the ligament between a hole and a blunt crack tip

Large deformation finite element analysis has been used to study the near crack tip growth of a cylindrical void ahead of a blunting crack. Such voids are often nucleated at elongated inclusions in specimens cut from rolled steel plates in the long transverse direction. The presence of smaller-scale voids nucleated at carbides or precipitate particles was taken into account by using Gurson's equations to describe the constitutive behavior of the material. Using the modification to Gurson's model introduced by Tvergaard and Needleman [22] we have been able to study the formation and subsequent growth of the microcrack in the ligament between the hole and the crack. Estimates for the crack tip opening displacement for fracture initiation were obtained and compared with those of a fully dense elastic-plastic material.
An electric force facilitator in descending vortex tornadogenesis

[1] We present a novel explanation of the physical processes behind one type of cloud and ground-level tornadogenesis within a supercell. We point out that the charge separation naturally found in these large thunderstorms can potentially serve to contract the preexisting angular momentum through the additional process of the electric force. On the basis of this, we present a plausible geometry that explains why many tornado vortices begin at storm midlevel and build downward into ground-level tornadoes. A simple model based on this geometry is used to demonstrate the strength of the electric force compared to the required centripetal acceleration to maintain cloud midlevel tornado vortices measurable as tornado vortex signatures (TVSs). Furthermore, a model based on this geometry is used to get a time estimate for tornado vortex formation. From this we are able to identify a plausible value for the threshold charge density that would lead to tornadogenesis and tornado maintenance on the timescale of a few minutes. We show that the proposed geometry can explain the observations that ground-level tornadoes thrive in regions with high shear and large convective available potential energy (CAPE) and are able to make some predictions of specific measurable quantities.
Insect juvenile hormones and pheromones of isopentenoid biogenesis

In their diversity, speciation, and sheer numerical superiority, few should question that insects are the dominant life-form on earth. Their utilization of the multifunctional isopentenoids to regulate their life processes is equally diverse. To catalog or even summarize the contribution of isopentenoids in the regulatory chemistry of insect feeding, development, reproduction, diaproduction, diapause, and behavior is beyond the scope of this review. However, a topical treatment of the chemistry of insect juvenile hormones and pheromones provides an insight into the dependence of insects upon isopentenoids.
The Quality of Data Representations Developed by NonExpert Designers: An Experimental Study

A laboratory study was conducted to compare the quality of conceptual data representations in the relational form developed by non-experts using the data aggregation (DA) approach and the logical relational design methodology (LRDM). While significant differences were not found between the quality of the relational solutions developed using the two techniques, differences were noted with respect to the intermediate diagrams produced. Furthermore, subjects using the LRDM developed satisfactory Entity-Relationship (ER) solutions, but were not able to appropriately translate the ER solutions into the relational form. Subjects using the DA approach developed poor quality representations both in the data aggregation and the relational form. The findings from this study suggest that conceptual data modeling performance can be improved by using design aids which can perform the translation of ER diagrams into relations.
Observation of adsorbate coverage with electrogenerated chemiluminescence imaging

Abstract The spatial distribution of poly(phenylene oxide) on platinum electrodes was studied using the technique of electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) imaging. The polymer was deposited on electrodes through the electrooxidation of phenol in aqueous solution. Electrochemical oxidation of phenol itself was effectively inhibited by the film, as was the electrogenerated chemiluminescen of luminol in alkaline peroxide. Using a sensitive microscopic imaging system, light from the ECL reaction was collected and used to show where film coverage occurred on the surface. At partial coverages of poly(phenylene oxide), some regions of the electrode were still able to support electron transfer and therefore the ECL images exhibited heterogeneity. Images showed that the nature and extent of coverage of poly(phenylene oxide) on the surface was a factor of phenol oxidation potential. The potential dependence of coverage was consistent with an isotherm that accounts for a high degree of attraction between adsorbed molecules, so that coverage increased abruptly over a relatively small potential range.
Development of a Functional Basis for Design

Functional models represent a form independent blueprint of a product. As with any blueprint or schematic, a consistent language or coding system is required to ensure others can read it. This paper introduces such a design language, called a functional basis, where product function is characterized in a verb-object (function-flow) format. The set of functions and flows is intended to comprehensively describe the mechanical design space, Clear definitions are provided for each function and flow. The functional basis is compared to previous functional representations and is shown to subsume these attempts as well as offer a more consistent classification scheme. Applications to the areas of product architecture development, function structure generation, and design information archival and transmittal are discussed.
Finite Element Analysis of $\hbox{Nb}_{3}\hbox{Sn}$ Sub-Cables Under Transverse Compression With Different Approaches

Currently, very few experimental results describing the behavior of Nb3Sn subcables under transverse load are available. Those results are of importance for predicting how a full-sized cable-in-conduit conductor behaves during operations. Current experimental devices used to study the effect of transverse load on the electrical performance of cables utilize concave plates to apply mechanical loads and contain the sample and subject it to mechanical loads that mimic the electromagnetic loads of full-sized cables during operation. From finite element analysis, it is found that the strain state in the strands of a triplet is greatly affected by the shape of the pressing element contact surface. We will discuss the strain state within the strands from the simulations using two pressing configurations: concave and flat plates. The strain state in each strand in a twisted triplet is investigated by considering two cross-sections of a triplet along the length of the cable. Those results can provide useful information on the electrical performance of each strand based on its location along the axis. It is verified that the load distribution is very different depending on the shape of the pressing plates.
Effect of propylene carbonate as a plasticizer in high molecular weight PEOLiCF3SO3 electrolytes

The effect of propylene carbonate on the PEO-LiCF 3 SO 3 system was studied using infrared spectroscopy and ionic conductivity measurements. It has been observed that large amounts of propylene carbonate tend to decrease the degree of ionic association in polymer electrolytes, while the ionic conductivity increases by several orders of magnitude. Propylene carbonate interacts preferentially with the crystalline PEO phase relative to the (PEO) 3 LiCF 3 SO 3 compound present in the PEO-LiCF 3 SO 3 salt complexes.
Induction of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Receptors in Rat Ovaries by Estrogen Priming

Estrogen pretreatment of hypophysectomized immature rats stimulated granulosa cell proliferation and enhanced FSH binding to the ovary in vivo. The present studies were undertaken to ascertain whether estrogen pretreatment altered the number of specific FSH receptor sites per ovarian cell, resulting in increased FSH binding. Cell suspensions were prepared from the ovaries of groups of rats pretreated with graded doses of 17β-estradiol. The isolated cells contained specific FSH receptors with high affinity for FSH. The results of these studies clearly showed that the number of specific FSH receptors per ovarian cell was unaffected by pretreatment with graded doses of 17β-estradiol or with diethylstilbestrol. The enhanced in vivo FSH binding was solely the result of estrogen-induced proliferation of granulosa cells with a fixed number of specific FSH receptors per cell.
Developmental Sequences in Class Reasoning and Propositional Reasoning

This study explored the theoretical prediction that class and propositional reasoning skills emerge as a function of the developing ability to coordinate increasingly complex negation and affirmation operations. Children from Grades 1, 3, 5, and 7 (7-, 9-, 11-, and 13-year-olds) were presented with problems from each domain. Rasch analyses of the children's responses were consistent with the hypothesis that both types of problems measured a single underlying dimension (i.e., the coordination of affirmation and negation operations). Qualitatively distinct levels of class and propositional reasoning were identified along this dimension, adding support to the notion that children's reasoning follows a logical developmental sequence. Planned comparisons supported the order-theoretical prediction that different groups of items account for solution differences between grade levels. Results also indicated that children encounter significant difficulties when they have to reason on the basis of negative information.
Considering alternative explanations for the associations among childhood adversity, childhood abuse, and adult sexual orientation: reply to Bailey and Bailey (2013) and Rind (2013).

Using a nationally representative U.S. dataset, we noted the established association between child abuse and same-sex sexuality and asked whether this association was most likely due to children’s sexual orientation influencing risk of abuse, as commonly assumed, or whether child abuse might affect sexual orientation (Roberts, Glymour, & Koenen, 2013). We hypothesized that abuse influenced orientation and used an instrumental variable approach to assess this hypothesis. Specifically, because childhood adversities are known to influence risk of abuse, but have no known direct influence on sexual orientation, we hypothesized that, if abuse affects sexual orientation, adversities that increase the risk of abuse should also predict higher prevalence of same-sex sexual orientation.
Methodology, Research Practice, and Progress in Personnel and Industrial Relations

In 1969 Heneman warned personnel researchers to avoid level of analysis confusion and parochialism in conceptual definitions. This paper explores these two problems as they currently impede research in Job analysis and comparable worth and calls for more attention to be paid to methods issues.
SCIENTIFICALLY CRAFTED CHILD CUSTODY EVALUATIONS

Part 1 of this two-part series proposed the use of an interdisciplinary model in the development of psycholegal questions that guide child custody evaluations. It was argued that defining the scope and focus of an evaluation at the time that a court order is entered provides a more structured and clearly defined set of questions to be researched and examined within the context of the behavioral science literature. The present article offers a conceptual model to be used in gathering and analyzing data in child custody evaluations. It is argued that the use of forensic methodology provides a more scientific basis for the information provided by the evaluator to the trier of fact, ultimately resulting in a more useful and accurate picture of the family in question.
Motion of the Order Parameter in Type-II Transition-Element Superconductors in a High Magnetic Field

The resistive state of type-II transition-element superconductors in a high magnetic field is studied using a technique due to Maki et al. The order parameters for the individual bands have similar Abrikosov-type solutions. Assuming a common upper critical field for the two bands, it is seen that the motions of the $s$- and $d$-electron pairs are controlled by different diffusion equations. The diffusion constants for the $s$- and $d$-pair motions are obtained for a typical transition-element superconductor. It is found that the $s$-band diffusion constant is not affected by the presence of the second band, but that the $d$-band diffusion constant is affected.
Scheduling Back-End Operations in Semiconductor Manufacturing

The importance of back-end operations in semiconductor manufacturing has been growing steadily in the face of higher customer expectations and stronger competition in the industry. In order to achieve low cycle times, high throughput and high utilization while improving due-date performance, more effective tools are needed to support machine setup and lot dispatching decisions. This paper presents a new model and solution methodology aimed at maximizing the weighted throughput of lots undergoing assembly and test, while ensuring that critical lots are given priority. The problem is formulated as a mixed-integer program and solved with a reactive greedy randomized adaptive search procedure (GRASP). In phase I of the GRASP, machine-tooling combinations are tentatively fixed and lot assignments are made iteratively to arrive at a feasible solution. This process is repeated many times. In phase II, a novel neighborhood search is performed on a subset of good solutions found in phase I. Using a linear programming-Monte Carlo simulation-based algorithm, new machine-tooling combinations are identified within the neighborhood of the solutions carried over, and improvements are sought by optimizing the corresponding lot assignments. The methodology was tested on data provided by a major semiconductor manufacturer. The results show that GRASP achieves high quality solutions comparable to those obtained with CPLEX in often half the time.