cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On affine plane curve evolution

Abstract An affine invariant curve evolution process is presented in this work. The evolution studied is the affine analogue of the Euclidean Curve Shortening flow. Evolution equations, for both affine and Euclidean invariants, are developed. An affine version of the classical (Euclidean) isoperimetric inequality is proved. This inequality is used to show that in the case of affine evolution of convex plane curves, the affine isoperimetric ratio is a non-decreasing function of time. Convergence of this affine isoperimetric ratio to the ellipse′s value (8π 2 ), as well as convergence, in the Hausdorff metric, of the evolving curve to an ellipse, is also proved.
Measurement of thermal expansion using a variable area slit method

Abstract The light reflected from a mirror on a probe, which is positioned on both sample and reference rods, is rotated by uneven thermal expansions of the two materials. A simple method is described to measure this rotation and hence the thermal expansion using a variable area slit and photodetector combination. The method is capable of determining very low thermal expansions of ceramic materials with high precision and accuracy. A measurement sensitivity of 10 -6 for Δ L / L can easily be obtained.
Simple method to verify OPC data based on exposure condition

In a world where Sub100nm lithography tool is an everyday household item for device makers, shrinkage of the device is at a rate that no one ever have imagined. With the shrinkage of device at such a high rate, demand placed on Optical Proximity Correction (OPC) is like never before. To meet this demand with respect to shrinkage rate of the device, more aggressive OPC tactic is involved. Aggressive OPC tactics is a must for sub 100nm lithography tech but this tactic eventually results in greater room for OPC error and complexity of the OPC data. Until now, Optical Rule Check (ORC) or Design Rule Check (DRC) was used to verify this complex OPC error. But each of these methods has its pros and cons. ORC verification of OPC data is rather accurate "process" wise but inspection of full chip device requires a lot of money (Computer , software,..) and patience (run time). DRC however has no such disadvantage, but accuracy of the verification is a total downfall "process" wise. In this study, we were able to create a new method for OPC data verification that combines the best of both ORC and DRC verification method. We created a method that inspects the biasing of the OPC data with respect to the illumination condition of the process that's involved. This new method for verification was applied to 80nm tech ISOLATION and GATE layer of the 512M DRAM device and showed accuracy equivalent to ORC inspection with run time that of DRC verification.
HyperCard for the Design, Development, and Delivery of Instruction.

The innovative software product HyperCard™ introduced in August, 1987, and today distributed free of charge with Apple Computer Incorporated's Macintosh line of computers, has sparked a flurry of interest among computer users. HyperCard represents advanced technology that, in a short time, has been put in the hands of hundreds of thousands of users, including a significant number of instructional designers and performance technologists. This article has three sections that introduce instructional designers and performance technologists to HyperCard. The first section describes just what HyperCard is and summarizes how it works. The second section presents the theoretical background of the program, from the perspectives of both cognitive psychologists and futuristic thinkers in the computing world. Finally, the third section describes three uses of HyperCard: (a) as a database management program, (b) as a vehicle for implementing hypermedia applications, and (c) as an authoring tool. For each of these three functions, the advantages and disadvantages of HyperCard for instructional designers and performance technologists are explored.
The plasma oxidation of Pd(1 0 0)

The oxidation of Pd(1 0 0) by an oxygen plasma was characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), low energy ion scattering spectroscopy (ISS), temperature programmed desorption (TPD), and low energy electron diffraction (LEED). The oxygen uptake followed a typical parabolic profile with oxygen coverages reaching 32 ML after 1 h in the plasma; a factor of 40 higher than could be achieved by dosing molecular oxidants in ultra high vacuum. Even after adsorbing 32 ML of oxygen, XPS revealed both metallic Pd and PdO in the surface region. The (5×5)R27o LEED pattern previously attributed to a surface oxide monolayer, slowly attenuated with oxygen coverage indicating that the PdO formed poorly ordered three dimensional clusters that slowly covered the ordered surface oxide. While XPS revealed the formation of bulk PdO, only small changes in the ISS spectra were observed once the surface oxide layer was completed. The leading edges of the O2 TPD curves showed only small shifts with increasing oxygen coverage that could be explained in terms of the lower thermodynamic stability of small oxide clusters. The desorption curves, however, could not be adequately described as simple zero order decomposition of PdO. There has been an ongoing debate in the literature about the relative catalytic activities of PdO and oxygen phases on Pd, the results indicate that any differences in the reactivity between bulk PdO and surface oxides are not associated with differences in the density of exposed Pd atoms or the decomposition kinetics of these two phases.
Budget model for estimating economic impact of fluticasone propionate/salmeterol via Diskus® in an adult asthma population☆

Abstract Rationale To estimate the economic impact of fluticasone propionate/salmeterol via Diskus® (FSC) as initial maintenance therapy in a population of adult patients (≥12 years) with persistent asthma. Methods A budget impact model was developed to assess the impact of increased substitution of FS for other asthma therapies. Input data were obtained from published literature and randomized controlled trials. The analysis was conducted from a third-party payer's perspective. The model uses a hypothetical health plan with 1 million members. Drug usage was based on market distribution for the base-case year with an assumed 10% increase of FS market share in the subsequent year. A sensitivity analysis varying the FS market share was performed. Proportionate transition of patients from other asthma therapies to FS was assumed in the base-case analysis. Results A total of 29,050 persons were estimated to seek treatment for persistent asthma in the health plan. It was found that a 10% increase in market share of FS would result in a monthly per asthma patient cost savings of $0.19 and a $0.01 for all enrollees. Sensitivity analysis, involving changing the incremental FS market share gain between 5% to 15% range, revealed that the budget impact remained in the cost saving zone over this pre-specified range (–$0.09 to –$0.28 per asthma patient per month, respectively). Conclusions This model demonstrates that the increased use of FS as therapy in patients with persistent asthma has a minimal impact on the overall budget of a large health plan, and may even reduce cost.
The incomplete anterior interosseous nerve syndrome.

The anterior interosseous nerve syndrome involves paralysis of the flexor pollicis longus, flexor digitorum profundus of the index and long fingers, and the pronator quadratus. We have encountered 33 cases of an incomplete syndrome in which only the flexor pollicis longus or the flexor digitorum profundus of the index finger is either paretic or paralyzed. This entity must be distinguished from flexor tendon rupture, flexor tendon adherence or adhesion, and stenosing tenosynovitis. The nerve is usually compressed by fibrous bands that most commonly originate from the deep head of the pronator teres and to the brachialis fascia. Less common causes of compression are: (1) fibrous bands from the superficial head of the pronator teres; (2) bands from the superficialis arcade; (3) the nerve running deep to both heads of the pronator; and (4) compression by a double lacertus fibrosus. Patients presenting with paresis should be observed. Most will improve spontaneously without surgery. We recommend exploration and neurolysis of the anterior interosseous nerve in patients who present with complete paralysis of either muscletendon unit and who have shown no improvement as determined by physical examination or repeat electromyography after 12 weeks of observation. Recovery after neurolysis is often rapid and complete.
Adaptive stochastic optimization using multiprocessors

A study is presented of a multiprocessor-based adaptive random search optimization algorithm that is suited for application to high-order systems with many parameters. Guidelines are established for optimum performance of the search technique in regard to the interaction of the optimization parameters and the influence of the number of processors being used. Analytical results are presented to show the influence of the random number distribution characteristics on the probability of successful improvement in the cost function, thereby suggesting more efficient search strategies. Furthermore, the relationship between the total number of processors and the corresponding rate of improvement in speed relative to sequential machines is presented. The class of problems likely to benefit from parallel processing is discussed. The comparative efficiency of the adaptive random search algorithm for different levels of parallelisms is illustrated through simulation studies.
Marriage, networks, and jobs in third world cities

This paper reports on recent research that explores the role of the marriage institution in facilitating economic activity in two urban labor markets: Kisumu, Kenya and Bombay, India. Kin and affine networks, organized around the marriage institution, are shown to improve the individual's labor market outcomes, while at the same time increasing his social obligations, in Kisumu. Caste-based networks, also kept in place by the marriage institution, are shown to shape career choices in Bombay. Although the marriage institution may have demonstrated a significant degree of flexibility in transplanting traditional (rural) networks to the city, we argue that these networks will ultimately break down in the face of economic globalization. (JEL: J12, J24, O12)
Quantum Statistics With Internal Symmetry

We formulate a group-theoretical projection technique for the quantum-statistical description of systems with exactly conserved charges corresponding to local non-Abelian gauge symmetries. The formalism is specified for SU(N) internal symmetry and a partition function related to a mixed canonical--grand-canonical ensemble is defined. Its perturbation expansion is derived, and we point out potential applications. We also study single-particle Green's functions for the calculation of mixed ensemble averages with the help of a generalized Wick's theorem and find that a connected-graphs expansion is impossible.
Where Are We Now?: A Call for Feature Articles

“Where Are We Now?” is a regular feature of Nursing Diagnosis. As reflected in the title, this feature will present current issues and trends related to nursing diagnosis development, implementation, and evaluation. Specifically, “Where Are We Now?” will address nursing diagnosis as it is being used in practice, research, and education. We encourage you to submit brief manuscripts addressing current issues and trends for this feature. Please correspond with Dr. Elizabeth McFarlane, 10205 Crooked Creek Ct., Fairfax Station, VA 22039.
AFM study of mineral wettability with reservoir oils

Wettability plays a key role in determining fluid distributions and consequently the multiphase flow and transport in petroleum reservoirs. Many crude oils have polar organic components that collect at oil-water interfaces and can adsorb onto the mineral surface if the brine film breaks, rendering the medium oil-wet or mixed-wet. Mica and silica surfaces have been aged with brine and crude oils to induce oil component adsorption. Bulk oil is eventually replaced by water in these experiments by washing with common solvents without ever drying the mineral surface. The organic deposit on the mineral surface is studied by atomic force microscopy in the tapping mode under water. Drying the surface during the removal of bulk oil induces artifacts; it is essential to keep the surface wet at all times before atomic force microscopy or contact angle measurement. As the mean thickness of the organic deposit increases, the oil-water contact angle increases. The organic deposits left behind after extraction of oil by common aromatic solvents used in core studies, such as toluene and decalin, are thinner than those left behind by non-aromatic solvents, such as cyclohexane. The force of adhesion with a probe sphere for minerals aged with just the asphaltene fraction is similar to that of the whole oil. The force of adhesion for the minerals aged with just the resin fraction is the highest of all SARA (saturates, aromatics, resins, and asphaltenes) fractions.
Assembly of Chick Brain Tubulin onto Isolated Basal Bodies of Chlamydomonas reinhardi

Basal bodies isolated from Chlamydomonas reinhardi will serve as initiation centers for the assembly of chick brain microtubule protein subunits (tubulin) into microtubules. The rate of microtubule assembly is tubulin-concentration dependent; this assembly occurs onto both distal and proximal ends of the basal body mnicrotubules, with distal assembly greatly favored. In vitro assembly of brain tubulin also occurs onto the mid-lateral aspects of the basal bodies, presumably onto the fiber connecting the two basal bodies.
Maternal adjustment following preterm birth: Contributions of experiential avoidance

The birth of a preterm infant has been linked with parental distress and adjustment difficulties, yet little is known about the psychosocial factors contributing to this association. Using a cross-sectional design, we therefore examined maternal adjustment following preterm birth, with an emphasis on the potential role of experiential avoidance. We expected that high experiential avoidance, or unwillingness to experience private events (e.g., thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations), would mediate the relation between stress surrounding preterm birth and postdischarge adjustment difficulties. We further tested whether the association between experiential avoidance and maternal maladjustment was moderated or offset by high levels of child sociability or perceived social support. Sixty-six mothers with a preterm infant previously hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) completed measures of NICU-related stress, experiential avoidance, postdischarge adjustment, perceived social support, and child temperament. As expected, experiential avoidance partially mediated the association between NICU-related stress and adjustment difficulties. Child sociability and perceived social support did not moderate the relation between experiential avoidance and adjustment, suggesting that high levels of experiential avoidance correlate with adverse outcomes irrespective of these variables. Some implications and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Angiotensin II induces superoxide anion production by mesangial cells

Angiotensin II induces superoxide anion production by mesangial cells. Background The recognized role of angiotensin II (Ang II) in the pathogenesis of the progression of renal disease cannot be solely attributed to Ang II's hemodynamic effects. Indeed, growth stimulating signals driven by Ang II promote mesangial cell (MC) hypertrophy and extracellular matrix production, prominent features of progressive glomerular injury. Superoxide anion ( O 2 − ) avidly interacts with nitric oxide, an endogenous vasodilator that inhibits growth factor stimulated MC growth and matrix production. In addition, O 2 − acting as an intracellular signal is linked to growth related responses such as activation of mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinases. The studies reported herein were designed to investigate: ( a ) whether Ang II induces MC O 2 − production and ( b ) if increased O 2 − production elicits growth responses in MC. Methods MC were exposed to Ang II for 24 or 48hours. In some experiments, in addition to Ang II, MC were exposed to: diphenylenieodonium (DPI), an inhibitor of the flavin containing NADH/NADPH oxidase; losartan (LOS), an Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptor blocker; PD 98059, a MAP kinases inhibitor; the protein kinase C inhibitors Calphostin C or H-7; and the tyrosine kinase inhibitors, herbymycin A or genistein. Results Ang II (10 -5 m to 10 -8 m) dose dependently increased MC O 2 − production up to 125% above control (ED 50 5 × 10 -7 m). LOS as well as DPI, and the PKC inhibitors blocked Ang II stimulated MC O 2 − production. Ang II dose dependently increased MC 3 H-leucine incorporation, and MC protein content, two markers of MC hypertrophy, as well as 3 H-thymidine incorporation, a marker of MC hyperplasia. PD98059, a specific inhibitor of MAP kinases prevented Ang II induced MC hypertrophy. Moreover, LOS, DPI, and the PKC inhibitors each independently inhibited MC 3 H-leucine incorporation, thereby establishing the specificity of Ang II induced O 2 − in driving MC hypertrophy. Conclusions The current studies demonstrate a previously unrecognized link between Ang II and MC O 2 − production that may participate in the pathophysiology of progressive renal disease by concomitantly affecting the hemodynamics of the glomerular microcirculation as well as growth related responses of MC to injury.
Selection of transformer cores for forward converters

This paper derives expressions to aid the specification of the coresize for the transformer of forward converters.
Forest Management and Carbon Storage: An Analysis of 12 Key Forest Nations

Forests of the world sequester and conserve more C than all other terrestrial ecosystems and account for 90% of the annual C flux between the atmosphere and the Earth’s land surface. Preliminary estimates indicate that forest and agroforest management practices throughout the world can enhance the capability of forests to sequester C and reduce accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Yet of the 3600 x 106 ha of forests in the world today, only about 10% (350 x 106 ha) are actively managed. The impetus to expand lands managed for forestry or agroforestry purposes lies primarily with nations having forest resources. In late 1990, an assessment was initiated to evaluate the biological potential and initial site costs of managed forest and agroforest systems to sequester C. Within the assessment, 12 key forested nations were the focus of a special analysis: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, India, Malaysia, Mexico, South Africa, former USSR, and USA. These nations contain 59% of the world’s natural forests and are representative of the world’s boreal, temperate, and tropical forest biomes. Assessment results indicate that though the world’s forests are contained in 138 nations, a subset of key nations, such as the 12 selected for this analysis, can significantly contribute to the global capability to sequester C through managed tree crops. Collectively, the 12 nations are estimated to have the potential to store 25.7 Pg C, once expanded levels of practices such as reforestation, afforestation, natural regeneration and agroforestry are implemented and maintained. Initial site costs based upon establishment costs for management practices are less than US$33/Mg C.
Pascal language extensions for parallel processing

Classes of problems amenable to parallel solution are differentiated over a wide range of distinct system architectures. In exploring applications of parallelism one has to work at two different levels: the problem-oriented or linguistic level and the run-time or architectural level. Predefined languages and fixed architectures can conceivably restrict the approach to problem solving and put a damper on both research and understanding. Dealing with the general problems of compiler development or with a large and extensible language of still limited availability such as ADA [1] serves to put a damper on experimentation with the linguistic and run-time issues.Pascal still remains a language of choice for program illustration as a result of its general use in computer science instruction. The availability of Wirth's well-documented Pascal-S compiler [2] removes much of the effort needed to translate modifications of the language to useable object form. The authors are therefore using Pascal as a test bed for extensions needed for the solution of various parallel problems, discrete systems simulation, and object-oriented programming. Run-time issues are addressed through modifications of the stack machine to handle execution in both the strictly sequential computer environments available to everyone and the parallel environment of a laboratory-based system using Inmos Transputers [3]. The stack machines themselves are implemented in appropriate versions of C. A. parallel C compiler [4] for the Transputer conveniently handles the not insignificant problems of code generation, loading, and linking on the Transputer system.The emphasis of the project is on an instructional programming environment. Languages such as Occam [5] and Simula [6] serve as conceptual starting points for defining the Pascal extensions. Available versions of Occam [7,8] tend to depart from the mainstream of user access, and the authors have frequently been perplexed by situations that beg for more information about behavior at the run-time implementation level. Simula's use of Algol-60 as its basis for definition gives a fair degree of compatibility with Pascal. Pascal in turn will give the student a familiar starting point and a fuller range of input and output capabilities for applications, debugging, and dynamic illustration of run-time behavior.
Anelasticity and stress-induced ordering of point defects in crystals

Abstract Point defects may exist in a crystal on a set of crystallographically equivalent orientations or sites. The response of a crystal containing point defects to an externally applied stress takes the form of ‘stress-induced ordering’, or preferential alignment of the defects. Recent experiments have used optical and spin resonance techniques to observe this stress-induced ordering directly. This same process also gives rise to anelasticity, e.g. to an internal friction peak. In describing such behaviour, the concept of a point defect as an ‘elastic dipole’, introduced by Kroner and others, is very useful. The elastic dipole is here defined as a second-rank tensor, the ‘λ-tensor’, equal to the average strain per mole fraction of defects all aligned in a particular orientation. This definition is then used to develop a thermodynamic theory of stress-induced ordering, which includes the interaction among defects and the possibility of a ‘reaction’ or interconversion between two species of defects. Appl...
Ideas and the Spiral of Politics: The Place of American Political Thought in American Political Development

AbstractMuch important work on American political development does not feature the study of political ideas. This article sketches a general framework of how politics proceeds, the “spiral of politics.” It suggests how and why idea generation and reformulation may comprise a crucial stage in politics. It thereby highlights the need for interpretive studies of ideas, while also indicating how different sorts of political science research can be constructively connected.
Comparative study of operative treatment and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty/stenting for recurrent carotid disease

Abstract Purpose: This study is a nonrandomized parallel comparison of the outcome for carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA)/stenting for recurrent carotid artery stenosis (RCS). Methods and Patients: Between June 1996 and June 2000, 83 carotid procedures (58 reoperations, Group I, and 25 PTA/stentings, Group II) were done for RCS. Patients were followed at regular intervals with duplex ultrasound scanning. The outcome of the stented group (Group II) was divided into early experience (Group IIA, first 12 cases) and late experience (Group IIB, last 13 cases) for learning curve consideration, and each was compared with the reoperation group. A Kaplan-Meier life table analysis was used to estimate the stroke-free survival rates and freedom from ≥50% recurrent restenosis for both groups. Results: The demographic and clinical characteristics and indications for intervention were similar for both groups. The mean time from the original CEA to reoperation was 41 months in Group I versus 43 months in Group II. Overall, stenting had higher 30-day stroke rates than reoperations—16% (3 major and 1 minor stroke) versus 3.4% (1 out of 2 [1.7%] was a major stroke, P P P P =.059). Freedom from recurrent ≥50% restenosis rates at 6 months and 1, 2, and 3 years were 100%, 100%, 100%, and 100%, respectively, for Group I versus 100%, 94%, 65%, and 44%, respectively, for Group II ( P Conclusions: Carotid PTA/stenting has a similar 30-day stroke rate to that of reoperation for RCS once experience is established. However, PTA/stenting has a higher incidence of restenosis than reoperation, which is associated with a percentage of cranial nerve injuries. Therefore, PTA/stenting can be an alternative to reoperation, particularly in marginal surgical risk patients. (J Vasc Surg 2001;34:831-8.)
Challenges of interviewers' institutional positionings: Taking account of interview content and the interaction

Interviewing is a much used methodological tool in communication and other social sciences. For discourse analysts, interviewing is often judged to be both overused and poorly used; to understand communicative life, researchers should be observing interaction rather than asking people to report their stories, experiences, or beliefs. As discourse scholars we agree with many of the criticisms fellow discourse scholars have made, but we disagree that interviewing should be avoided. Our paper has two purposes. The first is to describe an interview design and interpretation issue that needs attention. The issue is the effect of an interviewer's institutional positioning on interview answers, a concern that only becomes visible when we look at actual interview interaction. The second purpose is to sketch out an approach that takes interview interaction and the troubles that arise in it seriously while also addressing the substantive topics/issues that motivated interviewing in the first place. After reviewing ...
The experimental animal models for assessing treatment of restenosis

Coronary restenosis after percutaneous interventions remains a major clinical problem. The assessment of therapies for the prevention of restenosis relies on the use of experimental models. This review describes the most frequently used animal models of coronary artery retenosis and the intraspecies differences among them, particularly in the extent and composition of the neointimal thickening. These differences in neointima formation should be considered in the interpretation of effective antiproliferative therapies before they are transferred into clinical trials.
Lumbar tattoos, magnetic resonance imaging, and obstetric anesthesia: what do they have in common?

torically, placenta accreta was an incidental fi nding at the time of delivery and was associated with high maternal morbidity and mortality. The development of new imaging techniques such as MRI and transvaginal color Doppler sonography has allowed antenatal diagnosis of this condition [6] and elective preoperative planning of the obstetric and anesthetic management of these patients (e.g., elective Cesarean hysterectomy) [5]. In his practice of obstetric anesthesia, the author of this report encountered an otherwise healthy parturient with a working diagnosis of placenta accreta and colorful lumbar tattoos who was scheduled for MRI studies to determine the extent of placental pathology. At the conclusion of the procedure, the patient reported burning pain in her tattoos, consistent with the absorption of radiofrequency energy in the pigmented skin area. Although (luckily) no burns were diagnosed, this case adds one more piece of evidence that MRI studies should be performed with caution in patients with permanent skin coloring (tattoos).
Looking Up and Looking Down: Weighting Good and Bad Information in Life Satisfaction Judgments

In two large international studies, the authors examined whether happy and unhappy individuals weighted life domains differently when constructing life satisfaction judgments. In both studies, regression equations predicting life satisfaction showed that there were significant interactions between happiness and a person’s best domain and between happiness and a person’s worst domain, even after controlling for participants’ standing on all other domains. Happy participants weighted their best domains more heavily than did unhappy individuals, whereas unhappy individuals weighted their worst domains more heavily than did happy individuals. Thus, happy and unhappy people used different information when constructing satisfaction judgments.
Should I Brag? Nature and Impact of Positive and Boastful Disclosures for Women and Men

What is the nature of a “positive” disclosure versus a “boastful” one? How are those who use these different types of disclosures differentially construed? A set of three studies was designed to investigate three general issues. Study 1 asked respondents to rate characters who disclosed in a boastful, positive, or negative fashion. Boasters and positive disclosers were viewed as more competent than negative disclosers, negative and positive disclosers were viewed as more socially sensitive than boasters, and positive disclosers were best liked. In Study 2, the gender of the target disclosing positively or boastfully was manipulated. Compared to the boaster, the positive discloser was rated as more socially involved and feminine (less masculine) but less competent. Polarized judgments were made by both genders. Study 3 had individuals generate “boasts” and “positive statements.” The few gender differences that emerged suggest that although females’ bragging strategies may be less extreme or extensive, it is only when gender information is known that the brags of men and women are differentially construed. The present work suggests that men and women, as perceivers, may differentially activate cognitive structures (involving social involvement and femininity, on one hand, and competence and masculinity, on the other) when evaluating men versus women. The nature of the communication itself (boasts being perceived as more masculine and positive disclosures as more feminine) may exacerbate such differential activation in the construction of “mental models” of another's communication.
The Changing Scale of Livestock Production in and around Corn Belt Metropolitan Areas, 1978–97

This research examines changes in four sectors of livestock production, pork, dairy, fed cattle, and beef cows, from 1978 to 1997 by county metropolitan character. Relative changes in the amount of production and the number of producers in a county as well as changes in the average scale of production are examined. The purpose is to identify whether structural differences have emerged between metropolitan and nonmetropolitan Corn Belt counties as a result of industrialization in livestock production. The analysis identifies a divergence in the amount and scale of pork production in metro versus nonmetro regions from 1987 to 1997, coinciding with a period of substantial industrialization in that sector. Little divergence is identified in the scale of dairy, fed cattle, and beef cows operations during the same time period. The findings have implications for farmland preservation and agricultural viability in exurban regions of the Corn Belt.
On the flow between a rotating and a stationary disk

The analysis and experiments in this paper are restricted to the flow between two coaxial, infinite disks, one rotating and one stationary. The results of numerical calculations show that many solutions can exist for a given Reynolds number Ωl2/v (Ω is the angular velocity of the rotating disk and I is the spacing between the two disks). Out of a greater number of possible solutions, three solution branches have been identified; the branches correspond to one-, two- and three-flow cells in the meridional plane.The one-cell branch has been accorded detailed treatment. Within this branch there are two subbranches. The first, now well documented in the literature, includes solutions from zero to infinite Reynolds number. The latter limiting case is characterized by an inward-flowing boundary layer on the stationary disk and an outward-flowing boundary layer on the rotating disk. In between is a core flow rotating with a constant angular velocity. The second sub-branch of the single-cell flows, apparently unknown heretofore, begins with an infinite Reynolds number, decreases to a minimum and then increases to an infinite Reynolds number again. The first infinite Reynolds number limit again corresponds to two boundary-layer flows separated by a core flow with constantangular velocity opposite in direction to the angular velocity of the rotating disk. The second limiting case of infinite Reynolds number is the free-disk solution of von Karman (1921). Asymptotic solutions have been obtained which more fully describe the nature of this flow as the Reynolds number increases.The second part of the paper presents experimental measurements corresponding to the Reynolds number range 0–100. Profiles were measured with a hot-wire anemometer. The measurements are in agreement with the first, one-cell branch of solutions. A semi-quantitative evaluation of edge effects is obtained.
Expansion of scalar validation criteria to three dimensions: the R tensor

In the paper by Parkin [Acta Cryst. (2000), A56, 157–162], an incorrect correspondence e-mail address is given. The correct address is given above.
Managing Opportunistic Supplier Product Adulteration: Deferred Payments, Inspection, and Combined Mechanisms

Recent cases of product adulteration by foreign suppliers have compelled many manufacturers to rethink approaches to deterring suppliers from cutting corners, especially when manufacturers cannot fully monitor and control the suppliers' actions. In this paper, we study three mechanisms for dealing with product adulteration problems: (a) the deferred payment mechanism---the buyer pays the supplier after the deferred payment period only if no adulteration has been discovered by the customers; (b) the inspection mechanism---the buyer pays the supplier immediately, contingent on product passing the inspection; and (c) the combined mechanism---a combination of the deferred payment and inspection mechanisms. We show that the inspection mechanism cannot completely deter the suppliers from product adulteration, whereas the deferred payment mechanism can. Surprisingly, the combined mechanism is redundant: either the inspection or the deferred payment mechanisms perform just as well. Finally, we identify four factors that determine the dominance of deferred payment mechanism over the inspection mechanism: (a) the inspection cost relative to inspection accuracy, (b) the buyer's liability for adulterated products, (c) the difference in financing rates for the buyer and the supplier relative to the defects discovery rate by customers, and (d) the difference in production costs for adulterated and unadulterated product. We find that the deferred payment mechanism is preferable to inspection if the threats of adulteration (either incentive to adulterate or the consequences) are low.
Diffusion model based on Fick’s second law for the moisture absorption process in wood fiber-based composites: is it suitable or not?

The diffusion model based on Fick’s second law was applied to the moisture absorption process in wood fiber-based composites. The data of moisture absorption process on wood fiberboard and wood fiber/polymer composites with different densities were analyzed using the diffusion model. Specimens were subjected to different relative humidities and temperatures. The diffusion coefficients (D) and surface emission coefficients (S) along the thickness direction were calculated by the unsteady-state method using a nonlinear curve fitting algorithm. The experimental results showed that the S obtained from Fick’s second law diffusion model did not provide an external resistance when the moisture is absorbed into the wood. While the diffusion model did not provide the best fit of the moisture absorption data, the calculated internal moisture transfer rate, D, still shows physical meanings. The temperature had a significant effect on the D. The higher the temperature, the greater the D obtained. The D showed a decreased trend as the RH (or EMC) increased. No specific trends were found on the D as a function of board density. Other limitations of the diffusion model for the moisture movement in wood are also discussed.
Continuous Reflection Studies of Marginal Basin Sedimentation: ABSTRACT

Marginal basins include those within the body of the continental terrace (shelf and slope basins) and those flanking the terrace where it is separated from the deep sea by intervening topographic highs. Geographically widespread investigations with continuous reflection profilers suggest that continental slope basins are more common than previously suspected, particularly in tectonically active regions. Because of well-known topography and surface-sediment distributions, selected California continental borderland basins can be used as natural laboratories to study details of internal structures of basin deposits. These are compared with records End_Page 351------------------------------ of normal open shelf and slope deposits from other regions. Early results suggest that basin plains are underlain predominantly by ponded turbidites with internal reflecting horizons of near horizontal initial attitude which conform to their flat featureless surface. Lateral continuity of these reflectors appears to be large compared to those within the gently sloping aprons and sea fans of the basins. Reflection profiles of the peripheral regions of the Tyrrhenian Sea show horizontally-bedded, probably ponded turbidites in closed slope-basins and hemipelagic sediments blanketing and conforming to underlying topography in open-slope areas. Similar features are recorded in profiles from the continental terrace and marginal basin of the East China Sea and other regions. Filled marginal asins are believed to be quantitatively important in retaining terrigenous sediments within the continental framework. End_of_Article - Last_Page 352------------
Three-dimensional Reconstruction of Fruit Trees by a Shape from Silhouette Method

In order to robotically prune a dormant fruit tree, the branches must be identified in three-dimensional space. Furthermore, the branches need to be measured in order to determine which branches should be pruned. Both the identification and measurement of branches can be accomplished by generating a three-dimensional reconstruction of the tree, and by making measurements on the reconstruction. In this work, we use a computer vision-based method to generate the three-dimensional reconstruction. Images of the tree are acquired in a laboratory setting, and then a shape from silhouette (SFS) method of our own design is used to reconstruct the shape of the object. Although we use the SFS method for leafless apple trees, this method is appropriate for many complex objects. We present an overview of our method of SFS and experimental results in a laboratory setting.
A Review of Peripheral Vascular Deformations due to Respiration and Musculoskeletal Influences

The vascular system is extremely dynamic with motions generated from cardiac pulsatility, respiration, and musculoskeletal influences. This paper reviews in vivo non-pulsatile, non-radial deforma- tions in the abdominal aorta, and iliac, superficial femoral, renal, and carotid arteries. Medical imaging modalities and geometric modeling and quantification techniques are also briefly outlined. The axial strain, twisting, and bending deformations of these arteries are essential for establishing the boundary conditions by which to evaluate, regulate, and design vascular implants.
Estimating Conditional Probabilities for the Detection of Unfavorable Copy Number Alterations in a Targeted Therapy

Emerging targeted therapies have shown benefits such as less toxicity and higher effectiveness in specific types of cancer treatment; however, the accessibility of these advantages may rely on correct identification of suitable patients, which remains highly immature. We assume that copy number profiles, being accessible genomic data via microarray techniques, can provide useful information regarding drug response and shed light on personalized therapy. Based on the mechanism of action (MOA) of trastuzumab in the HER2 signaling pathway, a Bayesian network model in which copy number alterations (CNAs) serve as latent parents modifying signal transduction is applied. Two model parameters M-score and R -value which stand for the qualitative and quantitative effects of CNAs on drug effectiveness and are functions of conditional probabilities (CPs), are defined. An expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm is developed for estimating CPs, M-scores, and R-values from continuous measures, such as microarray data. We show through simulations that the EM algorithm can outperform classical threshold-based methods in the estimation of CPs and thereby provide improved performance for the detection of unfavorable CNAs. Several candidates of unfavorable CNAs to the trastuzumab therapy in breast cancer are provided in a real data example.
Occupational training in high school: When does it pay off?

Abstract Occupationally specific education in high school lowers the dropout rate of at-risk students and, if training related jobs are obtained, it increases the wages and employment after graduation as well. Unfortunately, less than half of vocational graduates work in occupations that match (very broadly defined) their training. High training related placement rates appear to result when well informed career choices precede training, when training is for an occupation in strong demand, when employers are involved in delivery and vocational teachers (not placement directors) take responsibility for the placement of their students. It is recommended that states make local vocational programs more accountable by funding them through a formula that rewards success in serving students, rather than just success in recruiting them, and that offers greater rewards for success with more challenging students.
The C'-terminal interaction domain of the thyroid hormone receptor confers the ability of the DNA site to dictate positive or negative transcriptional activity.

Abstract To investigate mechanisms responsible for positive and negative transcriptional control, we have utilized two types of promoters that are differentially regulated by thyroid hormone (T3) receptors. Promoters containing the palindromic T3 response element TCAGGTCA TGACCTGA are positively regulated by the T3 receptor after the administration of T3, whereas otherwise identical promoters containing the estrogen response element TCAGGTCA CTG TGACCTGA can be regulated negatively; converse effects are observed with the estrogen receptor. We describe evidence that the transcriptional inhibitory effects of the T3 or estrogen receptors on the estrogen or T3 response elements, respectively, are imposed by amino acid sequences in the C'-terminal region that colocalize with dimerization and hormone-binding domains and that these sequences can transfer inhibitory functions to other classes of transcription factors. Removal of the C'-terminal dimerization and hormone-binding domains of either the alpha T3 or estrogen receptors permits each receptor to act constitutively to enhance transcription on both T3 and estrogen response elements. It is, therefore, suggested that protein-protein interactions between receptor C' termini limit the subset of DNA binding sites on which transcriptional activation occurs.
Evolution of Linear Programming Computing Techniques

While the linear programming concept and the formulation of a specific model have value in themselves, the technique would fall short of its promise without efficient computing procedures. The simplex method has proved to be the most successful approach but it still leaves a wide range for detailed algorithms. At first, the method was applied by hand or with the aid of punched-card equipment. With the advent of internally-stored-program computers, automatic routines were designed. However, the early machines were adequate only for small problems and the original simplex method was not efficient for many LP models. A program of development was started at RAND to provide better computing techniques. Using first the IBM Model II CPC, then the 701 and now the 704, general LP routines of considerable power and flexibility have been developed. Future improvements will probably be possible only from higher level abstractions which take advantage of structure in the model matrix or which produce more efficient forms of the inverse of a sparse matrix.
Non-linear ultrasonics to determine molecular properties of pure liquids

Abstract Wave propagation of ultrasound through condensed media is fundamentally non-linear in nature. The extent of non-linearity is related to the ratio of the third to second virial coefficients ( B A ) of the equation of state of the medium. This ratio can be directly measured by determining the rate of change in sound speed with pressure. Several simple relations are developed that relate acoustic non-linearity to the molecular properties, namely internal pressure, free energy of binding, the effective van der Waals' constants, the translational diffusion coefficient, and the rotational correlation time. Using these relationships and the measured the acoustic non-linearity parameter and the sound speed, the molecular properties are determined for the liquids: water, alcohols and fluorocarbons. In all cases the values obtained from ultrasonic measurements compare closely with the values reported in the literature based on alternative measurements. In conclusion, the non-linear propagation of ultrasound offers an independent means of determining the molecular properties of condensed media.
Model independent means of catagorizing X-ray binaries. I: Colour-Colour-Intensity Diagrams

The diverse behaviors displayed by X-ray binaries make it difficult to determine the nature of the underlying compact objects. In particular, identification of systems containing black holes is currently considered robust only if a dynamical mass is obtained. We explore a model-independent means of identifying the central bodies --- neutron stars or black holes --- of accreting binary systems. We find four categories of object (classic black holes, GRS1915-like black holes, pulsars, and non-pulsing neutron stars) occupy distinct regions in a 3-dimensional colour-colour-intensity (CCI) diagram. Assuming that this clustering effect is due to intrinsic properties of the sources (such as mass accretion rate, binary separation, mass ratio, magnetic field strength, etc.), we suggest possible physical effects that drive each object to its specific location in the CCI phase space. We also suggest a surface in this space which separates systems that produce jets from those which do not, and demonstrate the use of CCI for identifying X-ray pulsars where a period has not been established. This method can also be used to study sub-clustering within a category and may prove useful for other classes of objects, such as cataclysmic variables and active galactic nuclei.