cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization of intrinsic rotation drive on DIII-D

Recent experiments on DIII-D have focused on elucidating the drive mechanisms for intrinsic rotation in tokamak fusion plasmas. In H-mode plasmas, the effective torque at the edge (ρ > 0.8) associated with the intrinsic rotation shows a dependence on the pedestal pressure gradient ∇Pped, which is qualitatively consistent with models describing E × B shear as a means of creating 'residual stress' and driving intrinsic rotation. However, direct measurement of the turbulent Reynolds stress using probes suggests that this is not the full picture. Specifically, there is a significant mismatch between the plasma spin up and the inferred torque from the Reynolds stress at the edge, indicating that additional mechanisms are necessary to completely understand edge intrinsic rotation generation. A narrow rotation layer is observed near the separatrix, which can qualitatively be explained using a model of thermal ion orbit loss. Parametrically, the torque from such a process is expected to vary with . A good predictor of the edge intrinsic torque is obtained by including this dependence, together with the previously observed ∇Pped dependence, in a regression fit of a wide range of H-mode conditions. The intrinsic torque in the core (ρ < 0.5) of H-mode plasmas tends to be much smaller than observed at the edge, although some examples have been found where it is large enough to modify the rotation profile. For instance, in certain plasmas with electron cyclotron heating, a significant counter-intrinsic torque has been observed in the inner region of the plasma.
Factors influencing injury severity to highway workers in work zone intrusion accidents.

Objective: Highway workers in work zones are in close proximity to traveling vehicles, exposing them to injury risks when vehicles intrude into the work zone. The purpose of this research was to perform an analysis of injuries endured by highway workers due to intrusion accidents and to identify factors that would have a significant effect on injury severity. Methods: Ten years of California work zone injury data were collected and analyzed. The data were first used to determine trends in work zone injury. Statistical models were also created to evaluate variables influencing injury severity. Statistical models included multiple correspondence analysis, Cox proportional hazard regression, logistic regression, and Poisson regression. Results: Statistical analysis of California injury data identified the 4 variables of accident/work zone location, work zone duration, time of day, and type of activity performed by the worker as having the most significant impact on injury severity. The results show that loca...
Human rape – adaptive or not?

The key point made by Hanna Kokko 1xHuman rape – adaptive or not?. Kokko, H. Trends Ecol. Evol. 2001; 16: 488–489Abstract | Full Text | Full Text PDFSee all References1 is that it might be adaptive for some men to engage in rape as a conditional strategy (conditional on costs and benefits). We have already acknowledged as much in our article 2xControversies in the evolutionary social sciences: a guide for the perplexed. Smith, E.A. et al. Trends Ecol. Evol. 2001; 16: 128–135Abstract | Full Text | Full Text PDF | PubMed | Scopus (98)See all References2. But the question that we were addressing with our modeling exercise is the hypothesis proposed by Thornhill and Palmer 3xThornhill, R. and Palmer, C. See all References3, that human males posses a specialized psychological adaptation to commit rape, not whether it is sometimes adaptive for males in warfare or with very low reproductive value to commit rape. We argued that for a special rape mechanism (including a conditional strategy) to evolve, rape would have to be frequently adaptive for a large fraction of the male population. But our analysis does not attempt to show that rape would never be adaptive, which is what Kokko seems to imply.We suggest that a more plausible explanation of situation-conditional rape is simply that males have a strong desire for sex, and that they also have the ability to recognize when coercion can be used to obtain a desired goal. The same ability to recognize the utility of coercion could explain stealing and many other coercive methods of obtained desired ends in a social milieu. It might well be that rape is often adaptive when it is committed, but this does not imply that there is a ‘rape adaptation,’ and our modeling results certainly suggest that most of the time for most men it probably does not pay to rape.Finally, we fully concur with Kokko's fear of moral or political preferences entering into decisions about whether particular patterns of behavior are adaptations. The point of our article, however, is to show that deductively derived models should be empirically tested for the sake of good science, irrespective of whether the behavior under consideration is deemed morally good or bad.
A feedforward neural network classifier model: multiple classes, confidence output values, and implementation

The Athena model is a tree-like net for pattern classification. This paper presents the formalisms on which the model's internal representations and function are based. It also presents an adaptive algorithm to be used with this model. The adaptation is based on entropy optimization. The difficult problem of the optimization is handled by use of Fisher's multiple discriminants method. A method is also presented by which confidence values are produced for the overall classification decision. Finally, a data flow architecture using optical processing elements is considered for the model's implementation.
Dynamic elastic behavior or high polymers at audiofrequencies

A brief description is given of the use of a resonant-bar type apparatus for measurement of the dynamic elastic modulus and the associated damping or internal friction of a solid polymer. Each different type of polymer is found to exhibit a characteristic internal friction spectrum when explored over the temperature range from liquid nitrogen temperatures to the melting point. These spectra are characterized by the occurrence of one or more peaks in the mechanical loss data centered about certain temperatures, accompanied by an associated drop in dynamic modulus. By variation of polymer composition and of polymer structure, by addition of low molecular weight compounds, and by subjection of samples to irradiation, considerable additional information can be gained that would be helpful in determining the nature of the molecular mechanisms that are responsible for the observed transitions. Dynamic mechanical data are presented and discussed for a series of poly(alpha olefins) with methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl and isobutyl side chains to depict the effects of crystallinity, side chain length and side chain structure on the observed transitions.
Comparing photomask and wafer post-develop defect formation

The reduction of post-develop defects in photomask making is significantly more critical than in wafer processing. While wafers can afford to experience some level of defect density, photomasks are required to be defect free. Defect density learning in photomask making is expensive and time-consuming given the material and exposure time costs. In a wafer fab, it is much easier to run factorial experiments to get large amounts of data in a short amount of time. Some photomask making and wafer processing defect generation mechanisms are the same. Here a study of the formation of resist material residues during develop will be compared between photomask and wafer processing. Wafer processing experience will provide insight into photomask post-develop defect formation. Several options for the elimination of this defect type will be discussed. Differences in implementation strategies between photomask makers and wafer lithographers will also be discussed.
Adenosine diphosphate glucose pyrophosphorylase, a rate‐limiting step in starch biosynthesis

Starch represents the major component of virtually all plant-derived foods consumed by man and animal. Hence, a thorough understanding of the starch biosynthetic pathway is critically important not only in understanding the biosynthesis of a major plant storage product, but also in allowing the genetic manipulation of both starch quality and quantity for human benefit. A major goal in these studies has been the identification of key steps in controlling starch levels. Evidence from a number of independent approaches clearly points to the enzyme adenosine diphosphate glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGPase) as a key regulatory step in starch synthesis. Here we highlight and summarize our understanding of this important enzyme.
Validation of the Patient-Reported Outcome Mortality Prediction Tool (PROMPT)

Abstract Context The Patient-Reported Outcome Mortality Prediction Tool (PROMPT) estimates six-month mortality risk in elderly patients with declining health, but its external validity has not been established. Objectives To prospectively validate the PROMPT in an independent patient cohort and explore its clinical utility. Methods The study cohort comprised a diverse sample of 467 patients aged 65 years and older. Model calibration and discrimination were assessed on the original PROMPT and in two updated models. Clinical utility of the final updated PROMPT was examined using decision curve analysis. Results The validation cohort had a lower six-month mortality rate than the derivation cohort (6.9% vs. 15.0%). Discrimination was virtually unchanged (area under the curve 0.73 compared with 0.75), but calibration was suboptimal ( P Conclusion The PROMPT demonstrated good discrimination but poor calibration in an independent heterogeneous clinical population. Model updating improved calibration and diagnostic performance and decision curve analysis demonstrated potential clinical utility of the PROMPT for initiating advance care planning rather than hospice referrals.
Development and Evaluation of an Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay for the Serodiagnosis of Pythiosis in Dogs

Pythiosis (caused by the aquatic oomycete Pythium insidiosum) is a devastating and often fatal cause of either severe transmural gastroenteritis or locally invasive subcutaneous disease in dogs living in the southeastern United States. Although early diagnosis is essential for successful treatment, tools available for this task are limited. Therefore, we developed and evaluated an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of anti-P insidiosum antibodies in canine serum. A soluble mycelial extract of P insidiosum was utilized as antigen in the ELISA, which was used to evaluate serum from 43 dogs with pythiosis, 8 dogs with lagenidiosis (another canine oomycosis), 16 dogs with nonoomycotic fungal or algal infections, 22 dogs with nonfungal gastrointestinal or skin disease, and 55 healthy dogs. Results were expressed as percent positivity (PP) relative to a strong positive control serum run on each plate. Medians and ranges for each of the 5 groups were as follows: pythiosis (81.7%, 50.6-98.5%), lagenidiosis (17.3%, 11.3-29.2%), other fungal or algal infections (8.2%, 4.7-15.4%), nonfungal gastrointestinal or skin disease (6.2%, 3.9-20.7%), and healthy dogs (6.7%, 3.0-15.2%). When using a cutoff value of 40% PP, the sensitivity and specificity of the ELISA both were 100%. In addition, ELISA values measured after successful surgical therapy in 2 dogs showed a decrease of anti-P insidiosum antibody concentrations into the normal range as early as 2 months after treatment. We conclude that the ELISA is a sensitive and specific test for the diagnosis of canine pythiosis, and may be a useful tool for monitoring response to medical or surgical therapy.
Utility of panoramic radiographs in detecting cervical calcified carotid atheroma.

Objective The objective of this study was to determine the utility of panoramic radiographs for detecting extracranial calcified carotid atheroma and carotid luminal stenosis. Study design Panoramic radiographs were obtained on 52 adult participants who had carotid ultrasound examination. Extent of carotid calcification and stenosis was determined by a cardiologist from ultrasound reports, which were considered gold standard assessments. A trained and calibrated oral and maxillofacial radiologist interpreted the radiographs for presence or absence of carotid calcifications. We examined the utility of panoramic radiographs to diagnose any carotid artery changes (diagnostic scheme 1) or only moderate to severe changes (scheme 2). Generalized estimating equations were used to account for clustering of observations within subjects. Results Under diagnostic schemes 1 and 2, radiographs had low sensitivity to detect carotid calcifications (31.1% and 25.0%, respectively) and stenoses (22.7% and 21.4%, respectively). Conclusions When compared to ultrasonography, panoramic radiography is not a reliable means to detect carotid artery calcifications or stenoses.
A FACTOR ANALYTIC STUDY OF SOME NON‐INTELLECTUAL INDICES OF ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

The use of biographical and interest scales to predict a person's probable academic or vocational achievement has a long history and a great range of success and failure. Generally, non-intellective measures have been developed to increase the efficiency of prediction when we use only intellective predictors such as scholastic aptitude or intelligence. Non-intellective measures may also provide some understanding of the personal traits necessary for success even if they fail to add a substantial increment to the predictive equation. Using biographical information as a predictor of achievement, Bunderson, Rigby, and Taylor (1963), Cline, Richards, Abe, and Needham (1963), and Ellison and Taylor (1962) have recently obtained positive results for samples of high school students, graduate students, and adult scientists.
Direct evidence of cavitation in vivo from diagnostic ultrasound

Recent increases in the pressure output of diagnostic ultrasound scanners have led to an interest in establishing thresholds for bioeffects in many organs including the lungs of mammals. Damage may be mediated by inertial cavitation, yet there have been no such direct observations in vivo. To explore the hypothesis of cavitation-based bioeffects from diagnostic ultrasound, research has been performed on the thresholds of damage in rat lungs exposed to 4.0-MHz pulsed Doppler and color Doppler ultrasound. A 30-MHz active cavitation detection scheme complementing these studies provides the first direct evidence of cavitation in vivo from diagnostic ultrasound pulses.
Direction-set-based algorithm for spectral estimation

An adaptive algorithm based on a direction set method for solving unconstrained minimization problems without using derivatives is developed for spectral estimation with the presence of noise. It is a fast algorithm since it requires O(N) multiplications for each system update where N is the number of parameters used in the system design. Computer simulations have shown that the algorithm is stable and very efficient for spectral estimation. The frequency estimates obtained by this algorithm often are smoother than those generated using a conjugate gradient based algorithm which has a computational complexity of O(N 2 ). A detailed study of the algorithm for adaptive spectral estimation including its computational complexity, computer simulations and its convergence comparing with other known methods, is given in this paper.
Risk and Regulation: Boat Owners' Perceptions of Recent Antifouling Legislation

This article evaluates the Swedish Chemical Inspectorate's risk communication programme associated with its planned phase-out of the use of antifouling paints for pleasure boat owners in the Baltic Sea. The study is based on 50 telephone interviews of boat club members and in-depth interviews with ten pleasure boat owners. The study shows that the Inspectorate was successful in its communication efforts to the extent that a majority of the boat owners interviewed were in favour of the phase-out. However, the study questions the use of deliberative techniques in all situations, hypothesising that in cases of a high-trust environment and low uncertain risk, the involvement of stakeholders (in this case representatives from boat-owning representatives) may actually increase distrust in the decision-making process.
Best Practices for Dealing with Price Volatility in Utah's Residential Construction Market

Price volatility is a problem that affects each discipline involved in the residential construction industry. The myriad factors that can have an impact on construction costs are such that it is extremely hard to anticipate upcoming changes in a timely and accurate way. When prices fluctuate during the course of a project, estimates become erroneous and completion of projects within expected budgets becomes difficult. Increasing prices typically leave contractors with the majority of the risk burden due to the enforceability of contracts were likely executed months prior. Numerous methods have been developed for managing the risk of price volatility. The various methods available are implemented based on the disciplines involved, the types of contracts being used, and the existing market conditions. Typical practices transfer the risk of price volatility to other involved disciplines, be it the owner, the contractor, subcontractors, or suppliers. However, no method has proven completely effective at remov...
Divacancies in diamond: a stepwise formation mechanism

Diffusion of monovacancies in diamond creates various trapped multivacancy clusters. The simplest diffusion process leads to a divacancy, V2. The formation of V2 is a critical step in the formation of larger vacancy clusters. We explored the relaxed potential energy surfaces in the formation of V2 by ab initio density functional theory (DFT) obtaining structures, relative energies, diffusion barriers and reaction paths. The constricted environment of a diamond lattice leads to unexpected chemical bonding situations with unusually elongated carbon–carbon bonds that have multicenter character. Divacancies separated by one carbon are not stable. Even though the divacancy is the most stable final product, a novel isolated divacancy with two vacant sites separated by two bonded carbons [V–CC–V] can be transformed into a divacancy only via a very large (>4.3 eV) barrier and therefore it should be a defect observable in irradiated diamonds. Trapping of a vacancy by another by forming a stable divacancy trap affects the development of NV-defects in nitrogen implanted diamonds that are subject to active current interest in a wide range of applications.
After Kosovo: Prospects for Balkan Stability

This article draws together and comments on the main insights of the articles included the special section The Former Yugoslavia: Future in Peace or Pieces? published in the Review's Spring‐Summer 1999 edition. It traces the historical and societal processes propelling the disintegration of the former Yugoslavia and criticises the western powers’ inadequate and one‐dimensional response to the dissolution process and the ensuing wars, in particular the narrow focus on the use of force as a remedy. The article brings the Review's on‐going examination of the political dynamics of the region up to date by analysing the events which led to NATO's bombardment of Kosovo and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in March 1999, and suggesting short, medium and long‐term measures to facilitate stability in the region.
Eimeria tenella: Accumulation and retention of anticoccidial ionophores by extracellular sporozoites

Abstract Extracellular sporozoites of Eimeria tenella were incubated at either 25 or 40 C in the presence of 14 C-lasalocid or 14 C-narasin, both anticoccidial ionophores. Liquid scintillation analysis shows that both ionophores are accumulated by the sporozoites outside their host cell. The relative degree of retention was significantly different for the two incubation temperatures and the concentration of lasalocid retained was consistently greater than that of narasin.
The structure of mitochondrial DNA from the liverwort, Marchantia polymorpha.

The structure of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from cultured cells of the liverwort, Marchantia polymorpha, was analyzed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and moving pictures of the fluorescently labeled molecules. Previous electron microscopic analysis with this liverwort revealed a unique property among land plants: mtDNA circles of only one size, that of the 186 kb genome, with no subgenomic circles. Most of the mtDNA was immobile in PFGE and contained complex structures, larger than the genome size with a bright fluorescent node and multiple attached fibers. The mobile mtDNA was mostly linear molecules in monomeric to pentameric lengths of the unit genome that increased following mung bean nuclease digestion, with a corresponding decrease in the immobile fraction. From 0 to 5% of the mtDNA was found as circular molecules the size of the genome and its oligomers; no subgenome-sized circles were present. Radiolabeling revealed that mtDNA synthesis began soon after transfer of cells to fresh medium and most newly replicated mtDNA was immobile; the circular form of the genome was not rapidly labeled.
Time-dependent fiber spinning equations. 1. Analysis of the mathematical behavior

Abstract The one-dimensional approximation to the time-dependent fiber spinning equations for an upper-convected Maxwell model is shown to consist of a set of four first-order quasilinear hyperbolic equations. The sign of the characteristics is shown to validate the customarily assigned boundary conditions for the time-dependent problem. A truncated set of three equations is presented which admits an analytic steady-state solution which exactly reproduces the Newtonian and high Deborah number viscoelastic limit behaviors. In the truncated set, the hyperbolic character of the equations is preserved and the previous results of a linear stability analysis at zero Reynolds number are well approximated. The normal forms of both the full and truncated fiber spinning equations are derived which are used to formulate stable numerical schemes in the companion paper [1].
Estimating snow depletion curves for American River basins using distributed snow modeling

Summary We used a well evaluated temperature-based distributed energy balance model for snow accumulation and ablation with a 1 km × 1 km resolution to derive estimates of snow water equivalent (SWE) and snow cover area (SCA) for the American River basin during the water years 1960–1999. These model prognostic variables were then used to derive and analyze the properties of the snow depletion curves (SDC) of the drainage basins of the three Forks of the American River. Such curves are commonly used in spatially lumped model applications as a priori estimates that account for the areal heterogeneities of the snow pack. Assuming that SDC can be derived for a basin and the annual variability is small, a single SDC offers an adequate description of the snow pack area distribution. Unique model-derived SDC were obtained for each Fork but with large inter-annual variability. The curve variability introduces large uncertainty in the prediction of snowmelt timing and magnitude when spatially lumped models are used. Further analysis of the model derived SDC showed significant correlation between the maximum annual SWE of the basin and the SWE values for a given SCA. In addition, the maximum annual SWE of the basin is also correlated with the SWE from snow courses surveys conducted in the beginning of March. These empirical relationships provide a procedure to estimate the SDC at the beginning of the melting season and, therefore, reduce the uncertainty in snowmelt estimation associated with the use of SDC.
Aftershock sequences of moderate‐sized intermediate and deep earthquakes in the Tonga Subduction Zone

Intermediate and deep focus earthquakes are generally thought to produce few aftershocks. The two year operation of a network of broadband seismographs in the Tonga-Fiji region provides an opportunity to monitor the aftershock activity of moderate-sized earthquakes. In addition to the March 9, 1994 (Mw 7.6) event that shows 144 aftershocks, we found that all nine intermediate and deep earthquakes with Mw > 6.0 showed some aftershock activity, suggesting that aftershock sequences are ubiquitous. On average, deep Tonga earthquakes show an order of magnitude fewer aftershocks above a given magnitude than shallow California earthquakes of similar moment. The largest aftershocks of each sequence have an mb that is 2.0 units smaller on average than the Mw of the mainshock, whereas the California earthquakes show a mean difference of 1.1. Since b-values of the deeper sequences appear to be similar to shallow sequences, the difference in aftershock productivity results from the larger size difference between the mainshock and the larger aftershocks. The most prolific sequences show an activity level not far below shallow earthquakes of the same moment. This is in contrast with observations of little aftershock activity for deep earthquakes in South America, Japan, and Kuriles, and suggests that the Tonga subduction zone is unusually prolific in aftershock production, perhaps due to cold slab temperatures.
Productivity, Fluency, and Grammaticality Measures from Narratives: Potential Indicators of Language Proficiency?

The purpose of this study was to identify potential general outcome indicators (GOIs) of language proficiency. Brief narratives were elicited from 45 kindergarten, first-grade, and third-grade children using single-picture scenes and a standardized protocol. Measures of language productivity, verbal fluency, and grammaticality were examined for alternate-form reliability and criterion validity. Two verbal fluency measures, total productive words per minute and total number of words per minute, were reliably obtained for students in all grades, demonstrated moderate criterion validity with a standardized oral language measure, and differentiated third-grade students from those in kindergarten and first grade. Additional standards for GOIs are discussed.
Arbitrary Shuffler Using Cross-Point Waveguide Mirrors

Dual layer waveguides are used to realize an arbitrary channel shuffler. The channel mapping of two parallel waveguides is determined by the positions of optical vias, which consist of laser processed two 45 degree mirrors.
Microorganism characterization using ATR–FTIR on an ultrathin polystyrene layer

Abstract An ultrathin polystyrene layer on a diamond ATR was used for solid-phase microextraction of Escherichia coli , Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter aerogenes . The polymer provides a recognition layer that capitalizes on the tendency of many bacteria to adhere to hydrophobic surfaces. When coupled with FTIR spectroscopy this method allowed for discrimination of the three bacteria investigated by direct application of the liquid suspensions followed by washing. A drying step was not necessary, since both the contributions of the polystyrene and that of water were effectively removed by weighted subtraction. Under conditions where the film was exposed to phosphate buffered saline, cell adhesion was essentially irreversible. However, the bound cells could be cleaned from the polymer layer by washing with sodium dodecyl sulfate. Moreover, when the recognition layer was first blocked with casein or bovine serum albumin, cell adhesion was not observed. This work demonstrates the potential of polymer coated ATR–FTIR for rapid (
Axial laminar flow of viscoplastic fluids in a concentric annulus subject to wall slip

The flow of non-Newtonian fluids in annular geometries is an important problem, especially for the extrusion of polymeric melts and suspensions and for oil and gas exploration. Here, an analytical solution of the equation of motion for the axial flow of an incompressible viscoplastic fluid (represented by the Hershel–Bulkley equation) in a long concentric annulus under isothermal, fully developed, and creeping conditions and subject to true or apparent wall slip is provided. The simplifications of the analytical model for Hershel–Bulkley fluid subject to wall slip also provide the analytical solutions for the axial annular flows of Bingham plastic, power-law, and Newtonian fluids with and without wall slip at one or both surfaces of the annulus.
Radioactivity-Based and Spectrophotometric Assays for Isoorotate Decarboxylase: Identification of the Thymidine Salvage Pathway in Lower Eukaryotes

A few organisms, notably some fungi, have the ability to metabolize thymidine to uracil, thus conserving the pyrimidine ring for subsequent metabolic use. Neurospora crassa possesses this pathway, termed the thymidine salvage pathway, and can utilize thymidine as a total pyrimidine source. The enzyme isoorotate decarboxylase (IDCase) completes this pathway via the enzymatic removal of the carboxylate from isoorotate to yield uracil. We describe in this communication two assays for IDCase and their application to determine activity levels, kinetic constants, and inhibitory properties. One uses [carboxy-14C]isoorotate from which the enzymatically generated 14CO2 is collected and quantitated. The second assay utilizes the spectral difference between 2-thioisoorotate and its decarboxylated product, 2-thiouracil. The spectral difference is greatest at 334 nm, out of the range of absorbance of total protein and thus usable for a spectrophotometric assay. The assays are sufficiently sensitive and accurate to be used in the measurement of Km values for both substrates. IDCase activity is found to be significantly higher in N. crassa strains lacking uc-1, a putative regulatory gene, suggesting a degree of metabolic control over this pathway. 5-Nitrouracil is found to inhibit IDCase with an estimated Ki value that is too low for accurate determination.
Attenuation coefficient of the guided mode supported by a metal‐clad planar dielectric waveguide

The attenuation coefficient of the guided mode supported by a metal-clad planar dielectric waveguide is deduced by a perturbation technique that is commonly used for metallic waveguides for both the transverse electric and the transverse magnetic modes.
Comment on “Decay fluorescence from single vibronic levels of SO2”

In response to a personal inquiry we have reexamined the pressure dependence of the lifetime of three excited vibronic states of SO2. The new measurements confirm the old ones, in particular the observation that the cross section for self-quenching is very large. A possible interpretation of the observation is suggested.
Nonlocal heat flows preserving the L2 energy

We shall study L2 energy conserved solutions to the heat equation. We shall first establish the global existence, uniqueness and regularity of solutions to such nonlocal heat flows. We then extend the method to a family of singularly perturbed systems of nonlocal parabolic equations. The main goal is to show that solutions to these perturbed systems converges strongly to some suitable weak-solutions of the limiting constrained nonlocal heat flows of maps into a singular space. It is then possible to study further properties of such suitable weak solutions and the corresponding free boundary problem, which will be discussed in a forthcoming article.
Mechanical Behavior of Highly-Flexible Elastomeric Composites with Knitted-Fabric Reinforcement

This paper examines critical issues associated with the fabrication and forming of highly-flexible polymeric composites, reinforced with knitted-fabric structures. Knitted-fabric reinforcements have not generally been preferred over more traditional woven reinforcements in high-performance composites, mainly because of their lower stiffness/strength performance when embedded in a rigid, thermosetting matrix material. However, with their unique formability, knitted fabrics promise great potential in applications where large deformation of the structure is desirable; such as energy/impact absorption and forming applications. One very attractive feature of knitted composite materials, is the large displacements that the underlying knitted fabric can potentially undergo before exhibiting a significant increase in stiffness. The unusual extensional behavior of knit fabric is attributed to the fact that the fibers are more-or-less free to slide over each other before the yarns become highly oriented, eventually “locking” in a packed formation. When the loops become highly elongated, the knit fabric achieves its maximum resistance to in-plane deformation, and exhibits a stiffness closely related to the elastic stiffness of the straightened fiber/yarn bundles. The unique formability of knitted fabrics is mainly due to this yarn movement. The highly “stretchable” behavior of knitted textile reinforcement materials can be used to great advantage in thermoforming composite structures. In order to fully utilize the exceptional stretch properties of the knitted-fabric, the matrix material should be able to deform at least as much as the fabric, and the knitted yarn movements need to be restricted by the matrix as little as possible. In this study, a multi-level finite element procedure was developed to analyze and control the deformation characteristics of plain weft knit reinforced composites. A database of mechanical properties for various knit geometries was obtained. Using these results, it is shown that carefully “tailored” knit fabric reinforcement can be used to improve mechanical performance and facilitate polymer forming processes, such as thermoforming. In this study, elastomeric materials such as polyurea and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) were used to fabricate composites with knitted-fabric. Two different types of arrangements were experimentally studied: knitted fabric embedded in the elastomer and a sandwich of knitted fabric between elastomeric skins. It is shown that by fully utilizing the high stretchability of the knitted fabric reinforcements, attractive material properties can be obtained especially for energy/impact absorption and forming applications. The improvement of thermoforming process stability with the use of carefully tailored knitted fabric reinforcements is also presented.
Reproduction, development, growth, and the length of larval life of Phascolosoma turnerae, a wood‐dwelling deep‐sea sipunculan

Specimens of the deep-sea sipunculan Phascolosoma turnerae were retrieved over a 5-year period from fibrous collectors placed for various time intervals at a depth of 520 m in the Tongue of the Ocean, Bahamas. Sipunculans removed from the collectors were counted, weighed, and maintained in the laboratory at 14°C, where they were monitored for gametogenic activity, spawning, development, and growth. In a 2-year study of seasonality, worms were most abundant in collectors retrieved in the spring and summer, and least abundant in the fall. Small animals ( 0.16 g) were found from May through August, but in markedly lower frequencies than small animals. Over the entire study, spawning was observed in the laboratory from April through August. We inferred from analyses of size frequencies, growth, and spawning seasonality that settlement of the larvae occurs primarily from November through April and that oceanic larval life could be as short as 7 months and as long as 12–14 months. Cleavage of fertilized eggs, as observed from laboratory spawnings, was spiral and holoblastic, resulting in a trochophore that transformed into a typical planktotrophic pelagosphera larva at 21 d. A few larvae survived as long as 2 months in the laboratory. This is the first study of biological processes in living sipunculans from the deep sea, and one of the first studies of living deep-sea wood dwellers.
Invasion of the brain by a cellular blue nevus of the scalp.A case report with light and electron microscopic studies

Repeated biopsies of a large pigmented lesion of the scalp of a young boy over a six-year period showed the characteristic features of a cellular blue nevus. Recent severe neurologic symptoms necessitated more radical surgical intervention. This disclosed focal invasion of the underlying skull, meninges, and brain. Apart from focal necrosis and multiple nucleoli in the most recent surgical specimen, the histologic features of the lesion have remained constant, despite its locally aggressive behavior. Electron microscopic studies demonstrated distinctive nucleolar configurations not previously reported.
Inhibitory effect of β-ecdysone on protein synthesis by blowfly fat body in vitro

Synthesis of blow fly calliphorin and other blood proteins by larval fat body in organ culture is inhibited by β-ecdysone. The findings suggest a novel function for the hormone.
Supervisor and subordinate reactions to performance appraisal sessions

Abstract Sixty supervisor-subordinate pairs were sampled before and after annual performance appraisal interviews used to discuss the subordinates' goal accomplishments over the past 12 months. The pairs were randomly selected from exempt employees of an industry headquartered in the Northwest. The data showed little agreement between superiors and their subordinates on preappraisal conditions of interest but moderate agreement on the affective orientation of the interview, objective qualities of it, and the nature of subordinate performance. However, in spite of the agreement across pairs on the pattern of performance discussions (reflected by supervisor-subordinate correlations), they did not agree on the level of performance; mean differences between the groups still existed after the sessions.
The intracellular metabolism of iodine in carcinogenesis.

Research from this laboratory and others have concluded that significant glandular atypia, and often neoplasia, occurs in the breast tissues of rodents and humans under conditions of iodine deprivation. These cellular changes caused by iodine deficiency are intensified, by aging, steroid hormones, and pituitary hormones. There has been controversy concerning the effect of iodine deficiency on stimulation and maintenance of cancer of the breast in rodents when the cancer is induced chemically or by transplantation. However, neither within this induced neoplastic framework nor with the dysplastic changes seen by deficiency alone have laboratory studies of thepathway of intracellular iodine been previously possible.
A game theory based approach for emergy analysis of industrial ecosystem under uncertainty

A well-designed and operated industrial ecological system should be able to utilize effectively the generated wastes from one member as the feed to another member. Nevertheless, due to heavy interactions among the member entities, particularly with various uncertainties, the coordinative material and energy reuse is a very complex task. In this paper, the issues of optimal operation of an industrial ecosystem under uncertainty are addressed. A game theory based approach is then introduced to derive an economically and environmentally optimal status of an industrial ecosystem. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated by tackling a case study problem, where the Nash Equilibrium for the profit payoff and sustainability payoff of the member entities is identified. The possible conflicts of the profit and sustainability objectives of the member entities in the ecosystem are resolved.
Theory of electroabsorption by anisotropic and layered semiconductors. I. Two-dimensional excitons in a uniform electric field

A basis for the theory of electroabsorption by excitons in anisotropic and layered semiconductors is developed, in which the excitons are assumed to be two dimensional. The effective-mass equation for a two-dimensional exciton in a uniform electric field of arbitrary strength is solved exactly (numerically), and the electroabsorption spectra computed for direct allowed, direct "forbidden" (second class), and indirect allowed transitions. The calculated spectra are compared with corresponding spectra for three-dimensional excitons and with spectra calculated neglecting the electron-hole interaction. The results are tabulated in a form that facilitates comparison with experimental data.
Multi-level covariance structure analysis of intra-familial substance use

Conventional covariance structure analysis, such as factor analysis, is often applied to data that are obtained in a hierarchical fashion, such as parents and siblings observed within families. However, multivariate modeling of such data are most frequently done as if the data were obtained as a simple random sample from a single population. An alternative specification is presented which explicitly models the within-level and between-level covariance matrices in familial substance use. Results demonstrate homogeneity in substance use within families but heterogeneity across families which could be accounted for by family-level variables of marital status, economic status, and biological relationships. It is shown that conventional covariance structure software can be easily adapted to handle hierarchical models, providing a large set of new analysis possibilities for multi-level data.
The honey bee cluster as a homeothermic superorganism

Abstract 1. 1. In winter, oxygen consumption of honey bee ( Apis mellifera L.) clusters resembles that of birds and mammals. 2. 2. Intact clusters of 10–20,000 bees increase metabolism when exposed to cold environmental temperatures. Below 10°C, metabolic rate (W kg −1 ) increases as a function of decreasing ambient temperature following the relation MR = 7.96 — 0.24 T (Fig. 1). 3. 3. Insulative properties of the cluster are estimated and discussed. 4. 4. At moderate ambient temperatures (10–14°C), the cluster “breaks” resulting in a massive increase in total surface area for heat exchange and concomitant large increase in metabolism.
Age, family history, and memory and future risk for cognitive impairment

Purpose: To provide a clinical tool for calculating a patient's future risk for developing cognitive impairment based on age, family history, and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT) retention. Participants: 1,019 cognitively normal persons followed for an average of 5 years; 159 participants were eventually diagnosed with cognitive impairment. Results: Risk of developing cognitive impairment increases with age and family history, but decreases with better memory performance. A nomogram is provided for calculation of relative risk of developing cognitive impairment in combinations of age, family history, and memory performance. Conclusions: These results enhance clinicians' ability to provide information to a patient about risk of cognitive impairment.
Independent intramolecular mediators of folding, activity, and inhibition for the Plasmodium falciparum cysteine protease falcipain-2.

Abstract The Plasmodium falciparum cysteine protease falcipain-2 is a trophozoite hemoglobinase and potential antimalarial drug target. Unlike other studied papain family proteases, falcipain-2 does not require its prodomain for folding to active enzyme. Rather, folding is mediated by an amino-terminal extension of the mature protease. As in related enzymes, the prodomain is a potent inhibitor of falcipain-2. We now report further functional evaluation of the domains of falcipain-2 and related plasmodial proteases. The minimum requirement for folding of falcipain-2 and four related plasmodial cysteine proteases was inclusion of a 14–15-residue amino-terminal folding domain, beginning with a conserved Tyr. Chimeras of the falcipain-2 catalytic domain with extensions from six other plasmodial proteases folded normally and had kinetic parameters (kcat/Km 124,000–195,000 m-1 s-1) similar to those of recombinant falcipain-2 (kcat/Km 120,000 m-1 s-1), indicating that the folding domain is functionally conserved across the falcipain-2 subfamily. Correct folding also occurred when the catalytic domain was refolded with a separate prodomain-folding domain construct but not with an isolated folding domain peptide. Thus, the prodomain mediated interaction between the other two domains when they were not covalently bound. The prodomain-catalytic domain interaction was independent of the active site, because it was blocked by free inactive catalytic domain but not by the active site-binding peptide leupeptin. The folded catalytic domain retained activity after purification from the prodomain-folding domain construct (kcat/Km 168,000 m-1 s-1), indicating that the folding domain is not required for activity once folding has been achieved. Activity was lost after nonreducing gelatin SDS-PAGE but not native gelatin PAGE, indicating that correct disulfide bonds are insufficient to direct appropriate folding. Our results identify unique features of the falcipain-2 subfamily with independent mediation of activity, folding, and inhibition.
A new target for proteasome inhibitors: FoxM1

Importance of the field: The proteasome is responsible for ubiquitin- and ATP-dependent proteolysis of cellular proteins. The latest advances in proteasome studies led to the development of proteasome inhibitors as drugs against human cancer. It has been shown that proteasome inhibitors selectively kill cancer, but not normal cells. However, the exact mechanisms of the anticancer activity of proteasome inhibitors are not well understood. The oncogenic transcription factor Forkhead Box M1 (FoxM1) is overexpressed in a majority of human carcinomas, while its expression is usually low in normal cells. In addition, FoxM1 may also drive tumor invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis. For these reasons, FoxM1 is an attractive target for anticancer drugs.Areas covered in this review: My aim is to discuss recent publications that point out novel mechanism of action of proteasome inhibitors. In addition, I describe the identification of new types of proteasome inhibitors, called thiazole antibiotics. Using a cell-bas...
Predicting stock price performance: a neural network approach

The prediction of stock price performance is a difficult and complex problem. Multivariate analytical techniques using both quantitative and qualitative variables have repeatedly been used to help form the basis of investor stock price expectations and, hence, influence investment decision making. However, the performance of multivariate analytical techniques is often less than conclusive and needs to be improved to more accurately forecast stock price performance. A neural network method has demonstrated its capability of addressing complex problems. A neural network method may be able to enhance an investor's forecasting ability. The purpose of this paper is to examine the capability of a neural network method and compares its predictive power with that of multiple discriminant analysis methods. >
On Capacity of a Constrained Two-Dimensional Channel in Presence of Violations

We will illustrate the connection between the Ising problem in statistical mechanics and the problem of computing the constrained capacity of an array of the same dimension. Using this connection, we show that for a given amount of violation, a soft constrained capacity can be computed. The classical Shannon capacity of a constrained channel is merely an end point of the soft capacity curve, where no violations are allowed. Moreover we reduce the problem of computing the constrained capacity to that of computing the eigenvalues of a special matrix. We claim that an analytical solution to calculating the eigenvalues of interest corresponds to solving the special case of the two-dimensional constrained channel with the constraint (1,infin)