cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nonconvex robust programming via value-function optimization

Convex programming based robust optimization is an active research topic in the past two decades, partially because of its computational tractability for many classes of optimization problems and uncertainty sets. However, many problems arising from modern operations research and statistical learning applications are nonconvex even in the nominal case, let alone their robust counterpart. In this paper, we introduce a systematic approach for tackling the nonconvexity of the robust optimization problems that is usually coupled with the nonsmoothness of the objective function brought by the worst-case value function. A majorization-minimization algorithm is presented to solve the penalized min-max formulation of the robustified problem that deterministically generates a “better” solution compared with the starting point (that is usually chosen as an unrobustfied optimal solution). A generalized saddle-point theorem regarding the directional stationarity is established and a game-theoretic interpretation of the computed solutions is provided. Numerical experiments show that the computed solutions of the nonconvex robust optimization problems are less sensitive to the data perturbation compared with the unrobustfied ones.
National Survey of Wellness Programs in U.S. and Canadian Medical Schools.

Purpose To describe the prevalence and scope of wellness programs at U.S. and Canadian medical schools. Method In July 2019, the authors surveyed 159 U.S. and Canadian medical schools regarding the prevalence, structure, and scope of their wellness programs. They inquired about the scope of programming, mental health initiatives, and evaluation strategies. Results Of the 159 schools, 104 responded (65%). Ninety schools (93%, 90/97) had a formal wellness program, and across 75 schools, the mean full-time equivalent (FTE) support for leadership was 0.77 (standard deviation [SD] 0.76). The wellness budget did not correlate with school type or size (respectively, P = .24 and P = .88). Most schools reported adequate preventative programming (62%, 53/85), reactive programming (86%, 73/85), and cultural programming (52%, 44/85), but most reported too little focus on structural programming (56%, 48/85). The most commonly reported barrier was lack of financial support (52%, 45/86), followed by lack of administrative support (35%, 30/86). Most schools (65%, 55/84) reported in-house mental health professionals with dedicated time to see medical students; across 43 schools, overall mean FTE for mental health professions was 1.62 (SD 1.41) and mean FTE per student enrolled was 0.0024 (SD 0.0019). Most schools (62%, 52/84) evaluated their wellness programs; they used the Association of American Medical Colleges Graduation Questionnaire (83%, 43/52) and/or annual student surveys (62%, 32/52). The most commonly reported barrier to evaluation was lack of time (54%, 45/84), followed by lack of administrative support (43%, 36/84). Conclusions Wellness programs are widely established at U.S. and Canadian medical schools, and most focus on preventative and reactive programming, as opposed to structural programming. Rigorous evaluation of the effectiveness of programs on student well-being is needed to inform resource allocation and program development. Schools should ensure adequate financial and administrative support to promote students' well-being and success.
Matching Returning Donors to Projects on Philanthropic Crowdfunding Platforms

We propose an approach to match returning donors to fundraising campaigns on philanthropic crowdfunding platforms. It is based on a structural econometric model of utility-maximizing donors who can...
Adolph Sutro’s Interior Ocean: A Social Snapshot of 19th-Century Bathing in the United States

The story of the Sutro Baths (1894–96) in San Francisco is an early example of encapsulating territory and interiorizing the natural environment. This paper situates Sutro’s crystal palace for swimmers within the architectural and social contexts of bathing in the 19th century. The novel typology of these baths transcended previous notions of bathing centers and recreational swimming pools. Their history is linked to evolving forms of leisure and social segregation related to collective swimming pools during this period.
MR Neurography of Peripheral Nerve Injury in the Presence of Orthopedic Hardware: Technical Considerations

As the frequency of orthopedic procedures performed each year in the United States continues to increase, evaluation of peripheral nerve injury (PNI) in the presence of pre-existing metallic hardware is in higher demand. Advances in metal artifact reduction techniques have substantially improved the capability to reduce the susceptibility effect at MRI, but few reports have documented the use of MR neurography in the evaluation of peripheral nerves in the presence of orthopedic hardware. This report delineates the challenges of MR neurography around metal given the high spatial resolution often required to adequately depict small peripheral nerves. It offers practical tips, including strategies for prescan assessment and protocol optimization, including use of more conventional two-dimensional proton density and T2-weighted fat-suppressed sequences and specialized three-dimensional techniques, such as reversed free-induction steady-state precession and multispectral imaging, which enable vascular suppression and metal artifact reduction, respectively. Finally, this article emphasizes the importance of real-time monitoring by radiologists to optimize the diagnostic yield of MR neurography in the presence of orthopedic hardware. © RSNA, 2021.
The Impacts of Climate Change and Porous Pavements on Combined Sewer Overflows: A Case Study of the City of Buffalo, New York, USA

Combined sewer overflows (CSOs) release pollutants collected in urban runoff into local waterways, impacting both aquatic life and human health. The impact of climate change on precipitation may result in an increase in the frequency and magnitude of heavy precipitation events, with a corresponding increase in CSO discharges. The installation of Green Infrastructure (GI) such as Porous Pavements (PP) is a resilient approach to mitigate CSO events. However, an understanding of the impact of climate change on CSO events and the effectiveness of GI practices is crucial for designing sustainable urban stormwater management systems. Using the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM), the performance of PP as a CSO abatement strategy was studied for the city of Buffalo, New York, USA. This paper used the Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) curves for current (1970-1999) and future (2070-2099) design rainfall scenarios, with four rainfall durations (1 hour, 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours) and four return periods (2 years, 10 years, 50 years, and 100 years). The simulation results show that 1) current 100-year events generate CSO volumes similar to predicted 50-year events; 2) CSO volumes could increase by 11-73% in 2070-2099 compared to 1970-1999 when no GI intervention is performed, and 3) the installation of PP can reduce 2-31% of future CSO volume. This case study demonstrates the regional CSO challenges posed by climate change and supports the use of GI as a mitigation strategy.
Experiences in Operating a Continuous Water Quality Monitoring Network

Experiences in operating a network of continuous water quality monitors in the southeastern United States have demonstrated the utility of such networks for pollution abatement monitoring. Operation and maintenance procedures and routine calibration and quality control procedures produce highly reliable data. While local cooperators are necessary for economic reasons, the vital role of the trained electronic technician cannot be overemphasized. Modifications and technical improvements to monitoring equipment are discussed. Problems encountered have been primarily mechanical in nature, particularly pumps. Computer programs and semiautomated data handling systems have been developed to produce timely reports.
Direct signal suppression schemes for passive radar

Passive radar systems must detect the presence of a target response many orders of magnitude weaker than the direct signal interference. Even when digitally modulated waveforms with favorable ambiguity surfaces are employed, the floor of the ambiguity surface sets significant limitations on the minimum detectable signal. Suppression of this direct path and close-in clutter from the surveillance waveform is crucial for maximizing the dynamic range which increases the useful detection range of the system. Presented here is an evaluation of various direct signal suppression schemes — both block and adaptive filtering — tested against various metrics on experimental collected passive radar data using North American digital television (DTV) waveforms. Results show the fast block least-mean squares adaptive filter to be significantly faster than existing algorithms with superior suppression performance. Strategies for selecting filtering schemes depending on the task at hand are also discussed.
Investigation of Dermal Contact with Soil in Controlled Trials

A series of laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments have been conducted at the University of Washington to improve the empirical grounding of dermal/soil pathway risk calculations. This article presents results from controlled trials, conducted in a greenhouse, in which volunteers engaged in activities in soil amended with a fluorescent marker. Activities included transplanting of bedding plants and laying of pipe by adults and children's play. Soil contact on hands, forearms, lower legs, and faces was examined using both fluoro-metric and gravimetric measurements. Results provide information on pre- and postactivity loadings, the extent of contact associated with the selected activities, and the effects of clothing, activity duration, and soil moisture. Preactivity loadings were consistent with previously reported observations. Following activity, skin coverage was found to be substantially incomplete except on hands. Local soil loadings may therefore deviate markedly from mean values obtained by w...
Expression, regulation, and functional role of glucose transporters (GLUTs) in brain.

Publisher Summary Glucose is the primary source of energy for the mammalian brain. As in most other tissues, glucose transport in the central nervous system (CNS) is mediated by facilitative glucose transporter proteins, glucose transporters (GLUTs). However, to date a thorough understanding of the mechanisms regulating glucose transport in the brain lags behind what is known in the “periphery.” The objective of this chapter is to expand the working knowledge of brain glucose uptake and utilization in the context of recent advances in the transport field. As a starting point, current molecular models of the GLUT protein structure are presented and compared with the known structures of other related transporters. The various structures may provide insights into the mechanisms by which glucose is transported across cell membranes. Data regarding the different GLUT isoforms found in brain and their regional distribution are summarized. There has been a virtual explosion within the past two years resulting in a doubling of the members of the family of facilitative glucose transporters. This chapter classifies the new members of this family as mammalian glucose transporters and shows their specific neural locations and functions in the CNS.
Dieting and the development of eating disorders in obese women: results of a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND Some investigators fear that dieting may precipitate binge eating and other adverse behavioral consequences. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to examine whether dieting would elicit binge eating and mood disturbance in individuals free of these complications before treatment. DESIGN A total of 123 obese women were randomly assigned to 1) a 1000 kcal/d diet that included 4 servings/d of a liquid meal replacement (MR); 2) a 1200-1500 kcal/d balanced deficit diet (BDD) of conventional foods; or 3) a nondieting (ND) approach that discouraged energy restriction. All women attended weekly group sessions for 20 wk and biweekly sessions from week 20 to week 40. RESULTS At week 20, participants in the MR, BDD, and ND groups lost 12.1 +/- 6.7%, 7.8 +/- 6.0%, and 0.1 +/- 2.4% of initial weight, respectively (P < 0.001). During the first 20 wk, there were no significant differences among groups in the number of persons who had objective binge episodes or in reports of hunger or dietary disinhibition. Symptoms of depression decreased significantly more (P < 0.001) in the MR and BDD groups than in ND participants. At week 28, significantly more (P < 0.003) cases of binge eating were observed in MR participants than in the 2 other groups. No differences, however, were observed between groups at weeks 40 or 65 (a follow-up visit). At no time did any participant meet criteria for binge-eating disorder. CONCLUSION Concerns about possible adverse behavioral consequences of dieting should not dissuade primary care providers from recommending modest energy restriction to obese individuals.
Carbon-13 spectra and relaxation under intermediate decoupling power conditions—AX spin case of formic acid

Abstract Theoretical expressions are derived in closed mathematical form for an AX spin system which: (a) is observed under steady-state conditions imposed by a continuously applied H 2 field at intermediate decoupling power levels, and (b) is relaxed by dipolar mechanisms rather than random relaxation processes. The observing H 1 field is assumed zero except while sampling the steady-state spin populations. Since dipolar relaxation mechanisms are included, nuclear Overhauser effects (NOE) can be calculated in 1 H- 13 C coupled systems. Agreement between experimental signals and corresponding theoretical intensities are very good for a wide range of intermediate power levels (40 to 225 Hz) for an enriched formic acid sample. In these experiments, the H 2 decoupling frequency is offset from the exact decoupling frequency by 60 Hz. Ratios of relaxation parameters may be calculated by matching experimental spectra with theoretical spectra predicted for various relaxation parameters. However, one transient experiment is required to scale the magnitudes of these relaxation rates. The four 13C signals observed under such intermediate decoupling techniques contain essential 1 H spectral information.
Voluntary Divestitures and the Choice Between Sell‐Offs and Spin‐Offs

A voluntary divestiture may either be a sell-off or a spin-off. In a sell-off, the divesting firm receives cash (or cash equivalents) and gives up ownership and control of the divested asset. In a spin-off, the divested asset becomes an independent entity under a new management but ownership remains with the old stockholders of the original firm. The study investigates the divestiture decision and the choice between sell-offs and spin-offs by constructing a model of the multi-divisional firm. The results show that firms undertake voluntary divestitures because of low marginal return coupled with high joint operating and financial costs. The form of the divestiture is determined by the operating risk of the division being divested. The implications of the model are empirically tested for the period 1969–87 and the results support the postulates of the model.
TWO-EARNER FAMILIES IN THE HOUSING MARKET

The 1970's has been a period in which three trends have coincided: housing prices have been escalating, wives have continued to enter the labor force, and legislation prohibiting discrimination in mortgage markets on the basis of sex and marital status has been enacted. In this paper, we examine the role of the two-earner family–one in which both husband and wife work–in the housing market of the 1970's, and the interrelation of this household type with other factors shaping the current high demand for housing. We also speculate on the role of the two-earner family in the housing market of the 1980's. We conclude that two-earner families are in a position to increase their housing outlays in the future, that the continued growth in the number of two-earner families will add to future housing demand, but that many two-earner families may be divorced couples of the future. This suggests that, while there will be a strong impact on single-family home demand, there will also be some restructuring of demand toward rental housing and cooperative/condominium ownership.
Dominance, Age and Aggression among Female Pronghorn, Antilocapra americana (Family: Antilocapridae)

The relationships among dominance, age and aggressive behaviour of marked, female pronghorn (Antilocapra americana; Family Antilocapridae) were studied in north central Colorado. Females formed dominance hierarchies with few circular relationships. Unlike other female ungulates, dominance rank was not correlated with age. Dominance rank was negatively correlated with rate of aggression initiated in summer and winter; however, aggressiveness as an individual trait was not related to dominance. Older females received higher rates of aggression than younger females in summer and winter. During the rut, dominance rank was correlated with rate of aggression received but not with rate of aggression initiated. Patterns of aggression that differ by season within a given hierarchy of dominance relationships suggest a different cause or function of aggressive behaviour in different seasons.
Calculation of relative energies of permethylated oligosilane conformers in vapor and in alkane solution.

The geometries of 35 conformers of Me(SiMe2)nMe (n = 4, 1; n = 5, 2; n = 6, 3; n = 7, 4) were optimized at the MP2/VTDZ level, and CCSD(T) single-point calculations were done at three MP2/VTDZ conf...
OVERUSE SYNDROMES OF THE HAND AND WRIST

Overuse syndromes are one of the most common occupational illnesses treated by primary care providers. Their pathophysiology parallels that of tenosynovitis. Occupational risk factors for overuse syndromes include repetition, high force, awkward joint posture, direct pressure, and vibration. Initial treatment is aimed at preventing fibrosis through rest, immobilization, and anti-inflammatory agents. Treatment must include identification and adjustment of occupational risk factors. Specific overuse syndromes are discussed, including tenosynovitis of the dorsal wrist extensor compartments and flexor tendons of the wrist, trigger finger, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Improvement in retinal image quality with dynamic correction of the eye's aberrations

We measured the improvement in retinal image quality provided by correcting the temporal variation in the eye's wave aberration with a closed-loop adaptive optics system. This system samples the eye's wave aberration at rates up to 30 Hz. Correction of the eye's aberrations can be completed in 0.25-0.5 seconds, resulting in residual rms wave-front errors as low as 0.1 microns for 6.8 mm pupils. Real-time wave-front measurements were used to determine how effectively the spatial and temporal components of the eye's wave aberration were corrected. The system provides dynamic correction of fluctuations in Zernike modes up to 5 th order with temporal frequency components up to 0.8 Hz. Temporal performance is in good agreement with predictions based on theory. Correction of the temporal variation in the eye's wave aberration increases the Strehl ratio of the point spread function nearly 3 times, and increases the contrast of images of cone photoreceptors by 33% compared with images taken with only static correction of the eye's higher order aberrations.
The E5 protein of HPV-6, but not HPV-16, associates efficiently with cellular growth factor receptors.

The transforming activity of the prototype E5 protein of bovine papillomavirus type 1 (BPV-1) is associated with its binding to, and activation of, both the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptors. The E5 proteins of human papillomavirus types 6 and 16 (HPV-6, HPV-16) also transform rodent cells in the presence of the EGF receptor. In this study we examined whether epitope-tagged HPV E5 proteins could associate with three different tyrosine kinase-containing growth factor receptors: the EGF receptor, the erbB2 receptor, and the PDGF receptor. The HPV-6 E5 protein was found to associate efficiently with all three of these growth factor receptors, while the HPV-16 E5 protein did not. These findings suggest either that the in vitro transforming activities of HPV-6 and HPV-16 E5 proteins involve a similar mechanism unrelated to receptor binding (e.g., binding to the 16-kDa membrane pore protein) or that they proceed along distinct pathways, with receptor binding being important for HPV-6. Regardless of the ultimate mechanisms, the differences between the HPV-6 and HPV-16 E5 proteins in binding to growth factor receptors may potentially contribute to the distinctive morphologies of their respective neoplastic lesions.
Differences in the acceptability of non-abstinence goals by type of drug among American substance abuse clinicians

To assess whether acceptability of non-abstinence outcome goals varied depending on the specific drug a client consumes (alcohol, cannabis, amphetamine, heroin, cocaine, MDMA/ecstasy, polydrug), severity of diagnosis (DSM-IV Abuse vs. Dependence), and finality of outcome goal (intermediate vs. final), we recruited 432 clinicians to complete a web-based questionnaire. More respondents rated non-abstinence acceptable as an intermediate goal for clients diagnosed with alcohol abuse (44%) or cannabis abuse (43%) than for clients diagnosed as abusing the other listed drugs (23 to 31%). Similarly, larger proportions of respondents rated non-abstinence as acceptable as a final goal for clients diagnosed with alcohol abuse (30%) or cannabis abuse (24%) than for clients diagnosed as abusing the other drugs (11 to 13%). Only 9 to 13% of respondents rated non-abstinence as an acceptable final goal for clients diagnosed with dependence, but 20% to 30% rated non-abstinence as acceptable as an intermediate goal for clients diagnosed as dependent.
Interaction of applied water amounts and leaf removal in the fruiting zone on grapevine water relations and productivity of Merlot

A study was conducted in the San Joaquin Valley of California on Merlot to determine the interaction of applied water amounts [at 0.4, 0.8, and 1.2 of estimated vineyard evapotranspiration (ETc)] and leaf removal (at berry set or veraison) in the fruiting zone on productivity. Shaded area was measured beneath the canopy of the 1.2 irrigation treatment at solar noon throughout the study to provide an estimate of seasonal crop coefficients (K c). Vine water status was assessed across treatments and years by measuring midday leaf water potential (Ψl). The maximum K c determined from the percent shaded area was 0.7 at the row spacing of 3.66 m and canopy type that developed a “California Sprawl.” Irrigation treatment had a significant effect on midday Ψl and no such effect for leaf removal. Clusters exposed to direct solar radiation had significantly higher temperatures and lower cluster Ψ than clusters in the shade. Irrigation treatment had a significant effect on berry weight, soluble solids, and titratable acidity. Yields of vines significantly increased as applied water amounts increased. In this wine grape production area, profitability is dependent upon yield. This study provided a reliable estimate of ETc and applied water amounts to maximize yield.
Identification of a Longitudinal Human Driving Model for Adaptive Cruise Control Performance Assessment

The main purpose of this paper is to develop a longitudinal human driving model that is accurate enough for the performance evaluation of adaptive cruise control systems. Six driver models were evaluated based on selected data from two vehicle motion databases—the SAVME database and the ICCFOT database, both created at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI). Among the models we evaluated, the Gipps’ model was found to be the most promising and was further analyzed. A modified version of the model was suggested and evaluated. The modified model was implemented in a microscopic traffic simulator and was found to produce results that agree with macroscopic traffic behavior very well.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Realism and Human Kinds

It is often noted that institutional objects and artifacts depend on human beliefs and intentions and so fail to meet the realist paradigm of mind-independent objects. In this paper I draw out exactly in what ways the thesis of mind-independence fails, and show that it has some surprising consequences. For the specific forms of mind-dependence involved entail that we have certain forms of epistemic privilege with regard to our own institutional and artifactual kinds, protecting us from certain possibilities of ignorance and error; they also demonstrate that not all cases of reference to these kinds can pro ceed along a purely causal model. As a result, realist views in ontology, epistemology, and semantics that were developed with natural scientific kinds in mind cannot fully apply to the kinds of the social and human sciences. In closing I consider some wider consequences of these results for social science and philosophy. Three elements of a realist philosophical world-view seem to go together: The ontological view that there are kinds of things that exist and have their nature independently of human beliefs, representations, and practices; the epistemological view that acquiring knowledge about such kinds is thus a matter of substantive discovery in the face of possibilities of gross error and ignorance; and the semantic view that reference to these kinds proceeds via a causal relation to an ostended sample, so that the extension of the term is determined by the real nature of the kind rather than by our associated beliefs and concepts, enabling us to refer to the kind despite our possible ignorance and error regarding its nature. A general realist position, however, requires only that the realist hold that there are some things and kinds that exist independently of the mental?not that everything is independent.1 Thus many realists are willing to accept that, along with independent natural kinds and objects, there are also (e.g.) institu tional objects and artifacts that neither exist nor have their natures independ ently of all human beliefs, representations and practices. The idea that such objects differ ontologically from the realist's paradigm independent objects is usually taken as an unimportant triviality; e.g., Michael Devitt notes 'The world that the Realist is primarily interested in defending is independent of us Pace Crawford Elder [1989], who argues that the realist must hold that beliefs about all components of the world may be massively false, and so must either deny that culturally generated kinds are constituted by social beliefs or deny their existence.
Growth characteristics of aquatic macrophytes cultured in nutrient-enriched water: II. Azolla, Duckweed, and Salvinia

Seasonal growth characteristics and biomass yield potential of 4 small-leaf, floating, aquatic macrophytes cultured in nutrient nonlimiting conditions were evaluated for central Florida’s climatic conditions. Biomass yields were found to be 10.6, 11.3, 16.1, and 32.1 t (dry wt) har−1 yr−1, respectively, for azolla (Azolla caroliniana), giant duckweed (Spirodela polyrhiza), common duckweed (Lemna minor), and salvinia (Salvinia rotundifolia). Operational plant density was in the range of 10–80 g dry wt m−2 for azolla, 10–88 g dry wt m−2 for giant duckweed, 10–120 g dry wt m−2 for common duckweed, and 35–240 g dry wt m−2 for salvinia. Specific growth rate (% increase per day) was maximum at low plant densities and decreased as the plant density increased. Results suggest that small-leaf, floating plants may not be suitable in monoculture biomass production systems because of low biomass yields, but they may be suitable for inclusion in poly culture systems with larger aquatic plants. The high N content (crude protein = 20–33%) of small-leaf,floating plants suggests the use of biomass as animal feed.
Organic field-effect transistor circuits with electrode interconnections using reverse stamping

We discuss a non-vacuum low-cost reverse stamping method for the realization of circuits based on top-gate organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) with a bi-layer gate dielectric. This method allows for patterning of high-k inorganic dielectric films produced by atomic layer deposition and consequently of the bilayer gate dielectric layers used in our top-gate OFETs. We demonstrate the fabrication and operation of logic inverters and ring oscillators following this approach.
Daphnia (Ctenodaphnia) brooksi (Crustacea: Cladocera), a new species from eastern Utah

A single population of an unusual ctenodaphnid was sampled in a shallow, turbid, temporary pond in eastern Utah in 1965. The animals resemble the African Daphnia (Ctenodaphnia) barbata, but show several morphological differences, and are therefore given the new name Daphnia (Ctenodaphnia) brooksi. Repeated efforts to collect this species since 1965 have failed, suggesting either the species is very rare, or the type population represented an instance of long-distance migration.
Cepstral analysis of hyperfine structure in electron paramagnetic resonance

Abstract A spectral analysis technique for evaluating the magnetic parameters of the hyperfine structure of electron paramagnetic resonance has been devised. The resonance spectrum is transformed to a cepstrum from which the spin and hyperfine coupling constants of each of the nuclei interacting with an unpaired electron can be readily recognized and evaluated. Illustrative examples of the cepstral analysis of hyperfine structure are included.
Instant spectroscopy in the visible, ultraviolet, and vacuum ultraviolet with Polaroid film.

Results of tests performed with Polaroid type 75 positive film for recording spectra in the visible, ultraviolet, and vacuum ultraviolet are reported. The film is reported to be very satisfactory for checking alignment of spectrographs and for diagnostic purposes while preparing experiments. A method for sensitizing the film for use in vacuum ultraviolet work is described. (BLM)
Neurobiological alphabets: Language origins and the problem of universals

A comparison among neuroscientists on reading, medieval discussions about ancient and foreign alphabets, and modern scholarly interpretations of those discussions provides a lens on two topics: the origins of human languages and the universality of alphabets. Priscian, Isidore of Seville, and others turn away from theological accounts of the origins of language and posit instead that phonemes and graphemes in part imitate sounds and objects in the world. Rabanus Maurus, Giovanni Boccaccio, Sir John Mandeville, and others state that different languages’ graphemes – and by extension the languages and the cultures that use them – are scarcely, if at all, able to be equated. Neuroscience goes much further with both ideas, emphasizing universals and stronger cross-linguistic parallels.
Further Contributions to a General Theory of Movement

Abstract Alonso (1973, 1978) has proposed a generalized spatial interaction model from which the four members of the traditional family of gravity models (Wilson 1971) can be derived as special cases. With the aid of Alonso's general theory, this paper discusses the relationship between the traditional gravity models in greater detail and describes the performance of a series of what are termed quasi-constrained gravity models. The systemic parameters in Alonso's general model are discussed in terms of trip generation and trip attraction modeling. These systemic parameters are shown to reflect the relative importance of “site'’and “situation'’variables in determining outflow and inflow totals. When the site variables are accurate surrogates for actual outflow and inflow totals, a doubly constrained gravity model is likely to be optimal in terms of replicating existing flow patterns or forecasting unknown patterns. When the site variables are inaccurate surrogates and when outflow and inflow totals are rel...
Acousto-Optical Deflection-Based Laser Beam Scanning for Fluorescence Detection on Multichannel Electrophoretic Microchips

Laser beam scanning driven by an acousto-optical deflector (AOD) is presented for multimicrochannel laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detection during microchip-based electrophoresis. While fast laser beam scanning for LIF detection on capillary or microchannel arrays can been achieved with galvanometric scanning or a translating stage, it can also be accomplished by using acoustic waves to deflect the laser beam in a manner that is dependent on the acoustic frequency. AOD scanning differs from other approaches in that no moving parts are required, and the scan frequency is faster than conventional approaches. Using a digital/analog (D/A) converter to provide addressing voltages to a voltage/frequency converter, rapidly changing the frequency input to the AOD allows the laser beam to be addressed accurately on a microchip. With the ability to change the frequency on the nanosecond time scale, scanning rates as high as 30 Hz for Windows-based LabView programming are possible, with much faster scan rates ach...
Chrome-free single-step in-situ phosphatizing coatings on a Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy

Surface pretreatment, such as chromate conversion, is generally required for the organic coating on Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloys. The surface modification process facilitates bond formation between the titanium surface and adhesives or paints. However, the hexavalent chromate used in the conversion coating is carcinogenic and must be eliminated. Recently, the “green chemistry” technique of in-situ phosphatizing coatings (ISPC) has been developed at Northern Illinois University. In this study, a polyester-melamine coating system catalyzed by p-toluene sulfonic acid is used as a control paint and applied to bare (paint 1) and chromated (paint 3) Ti alloy panels. The arylphosphonic acid employed as an in-situ phosphatizing reagent (ISPR) is used to formulate ISPC polyester-melamine paint and to react in-situ with the metal surface when ISPC paint is applied on bare Ti panels (paint 2) and chromated Ti panels (paint 4). After soaking in 3% NaCl solution for 1500 hr, the electrochemical impedance, |Z|, was measured as 109, 1010, 1010, and 1010 ohm-cm2 for paints, 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. After 1000 hr salt spray (fog) testing, a disbondment from the “X” scribe is observed as 13 and <0.5, <1, <1 mm for paints 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. The simultaneous reaction of the ISPR in catalyzing the polymerization of paint film and forming the metal-phosphate layer is the reason for the superior ISPC paint performance.
Progression of heterogeneous breast tumors.

Two possible pathways of breast tumor progression were investigated by searching for values of transition rates that could reproduce the clinically observed co-occurrence frequencies of grades of ductal carcinoma in situ and grades of invasive ductal carcinoma in heterogeneous tumors. Two different pathways were analysed, a linear pathway with seven parameters, and a nonlinear pathway with three parameters. In each pathway ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a progenitor of invasive carcinoma (IDC). In the linear pathway breast tumor progression is along increasing grades: DCIS 1-DCIS 2-DCIS 3-IDC 1-IDC 2-IDC 3. In the nonlinear pathway progression of DCIS and progression of IDC can proceed in parallel steps, and in addition, with transitions from each grade of DCIS to a corresponding grade of IDC. The biological pathways were interpreted mathematically as compartment models with transition rates between stages in an explicit series of coupled differential equations. Two methods were used to search for transition rates that could reproduce the observed co-occurrence frequencies, a limited empirical search and an extensive genetic algorithmic search. Neither search method, with either pathway, could find a combination of transition rates that would reproduce the set of observed co-occurrence frequencies. We conclude that neither the linear pathway, nor the nonlinear pathway considered here, is an adequate description of progression in heterogeneous breast tumors. This quantitative investigation lends support to previous evidence from histopathology and molecular biology that the grades of DCIS and IDC seen together in heterogeneous breast tumors may not be obligate steps in tumor progression.
Retrospective evaluation of continuous epidural infusion for postoperative pain in children.

Background: The safety and efficacy of postoperative epidural analgesia (EDA) in children are not well documented in larger series of patients given routine postoperative care. The aims of this study were to evaluate the efficacy of pain relief, determine the incidence and type of complications during the entire period of epidural pain treatment in children, and assess the factors affecting efficacy Methods: Children treated postoperatively with an EDA infusion during the period 18 September 1994 to 1 January 1999 were studied. Data regarding the age, gender, efficacy of analgesia, duration of epidural infusion, types of side-effects and complications, reasons for discontinuation, and types and duration of surgery were collected daily by the Acute Pain Treatment Service. The sensory dermatomal level of the surgical incision site was included retrospectively. Results: Five hundred and eighteen epidural infusions were given to 476 children. Pain relief was rated as ‘good’ at 76% of visits. There were no major complications or sequelae. Thirty-seven per cent of the epidural infusions were prematurely discontinued, and 21% were discontinued because of unsatisfactory analgesia. Factors related to a higher percentage of unsatisfactory function were surgical incision site located above the umbilicus, gastrenterologic surgery, protracted surgery and age. Age and duration of surgery were significantly related to unsatisfactory function. Conclusion: This study shows that continuous epidural infusion for postoperative pain was satisfactory in most cases, and that no major side-effects or complications occurred in children nursed on regular wards. The early recognition of unsatisfactory function of an EDA is important for a child's well being.
Use of metadata vocabularies in data retrieval

Researchers have developed a prototype of a system that uses metadata to guide the user in selecting document databases of interest. A standardized vocabulary is used to index the document sets and is also used to locate databases. Once a database is located, then free-form searches are aided by the metadata vocabulary to locate specific documents. This system, the Research, Education, Economic Information System (REEIS), is being developed for the USDA to provide a way to locate programs, projects, and research that focus on food, agriculture, natural resources, and rural development.
CYCLIC STRESS-STRAIN BEHAVIOR OF PARTICLE REINFORCED METAL MATRIX COMPOSITES

**Ford Research Laboratory, Ford Motor Co., Dearborn, MI 48121(Received February 3, 1998)(Accepted February 13, 1998)IntroductionParticle reinforced metal matrix composites (MMCs) have generated a significant amount of interestdue to their high strength, stiffness, weight savings and higher operating temperatures compared toconventional engineering materials (1–3). By the addition of a relatively inexpensive ceramic partic-ulate reinforcement, such as SiC, to conventional aluminum alloys, a substantial decrease in CTE andan increase in modulus and fatigue resistance can be achieved while maintaining cost at an acceptablelevel (4,5).A number of studies have examined the monotonic stress-strain behavior of particle reinforced Al(6–10), as well as the cyclic stress-strain behavior of these materials (11–15). In this study, we havecompared the cyclic stress-strain hysteresis behavior of the composite to that of the unreinforced alloyat different stress levels. The effect of reinforcement volume fraction on total and plastic strainaccumulated during fatigue was also examined. The implications of these findings regarding fatiguemechanisms are discussed.Materials and Experimental ProcedureA 2080 Al alloy (A1-3.6Cu-1.9Mg, age-hardenable) reinforced with 10, 20, and 30% SiC particles wasconsolidated via powder metallurgy processing and extruded (Aluminum Company of America, AlcoaCenter, PA). The average particle size of the reinforcement was approximately 5 mm. A thermome-chanical treatment (T8 treatment) developed by Krajewski et al. (16), consisting of solution treating,rolling, and peak aging, was conducted on the composite and the unreinforced alloy. The rolling stepwas crucial since it provided a homogeneous distribution of dislocations that served as heterogeneousnucleation sites for precipitation, and resulted in nearly identical S’ precipitates in the microstructuresof all the composites as well as the unreinforced alloy. Tensile and fatigue samples were machined byusing low-stress grinding. The gage diameter of tensile specimens was 5.08 mm and that of fatiguesamples was 4 mm. An extensometer with a gage length of 12.7 mm was used in all tests. Tensile tests
M.C. Wittrock, a Giant of Educational Psychology

This is the introduction to a set of articles honoring the life and contributions of Merlin C. Wittrock. Wittrock's classic article, “Learning as a Generative Process,” originally published in the pages of Educational Psychologist in 1974, is reprinted, followed by comments from colleagues, friends, former students, and others on Professor Wittrock's lasting legacy.
Molecular Models of Solid State Metal Boride Structures

Abstract Based on existing connections between borane cages and boron-rich metal borides on the one hand and metal clusters containing boron atoms and metal-rich borides on the other, selected metallaboranes of intermediate stoichiometry are investigated as models for transition metal borides with similar M/B ratios. This study is possible due to the recent development of a general route to metallaboranes for group 5–9 metals that permits the distinct role of the transition metal in metallaborane cluster bonding to be revealed. The comparison shows that it is MM and MB covalent bonding rather than M and B electronic charges that drives change in structure with metal identity.
Best practices in commercial real estate financing: the borrower's agenda in negotiating loan documents

How should a borrower respond to a draft set of commercial mortgage loan documents? This paper, consisting of four quarterly instalments appearing in the 2003/2004 volume of this publication, seeks to answer that question. The author discusses business and legal issues that mortgage loan documents typically raise for a borrower; some structural variations and the special concerns they might create; the closing process; and some issues that a borrower may want to raise on its own initiative. Copyright © 2003 Henry Stewart Publications
CELL CHANGES IN THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM UNDER VARIOUS NATURAL AND EXPERIMENTAL CONDITIONS. SECOND PAPER: CRETINISM IN SHEEP AND GOATS

1. The brains and cervical cords of seven typical cretin lambs, two typical cretin kids, and one atypical cretin sheep were examined histologically from Nissl preparations for nerve-cell changes. These tissues were properly controlled by tissues from animals of the same age and sex. In four cases—three cretin lambs and one normal—Macallum's microchemical iron reaction was employed. 2. In each of the nine typical cretins definite chromatolysis of these elements were found. Sufficiently characteristic stages were represented to warrant a progressive course in the development of the process. 3. The reaction is an affection of the chromatin apparatus, both nuclear and extranuclear, and is characterised by an initial increase followed by a diminution of this substance. This may lead to complete degeneration of the cell. 4. The chromatin of the nucleus and nucleolus is less affected than the Nissl substance, and, except for the diffuse substance infiltrating from the cytoplasm, may appear quite normal when the extranuclear chromatin has been reduced to a very fine state. The nucleoli sooner or later, however, become swollen and lose a large part of their characteristically staining chromatin. In iron preparations these appear mottled. 5. Identical stages of the chromatolytic process were demonstrated by the two methods employed. Unlike the toluidin-blue stain, however, the hwematoxylin iron reaction brings out the oxyphilic as well as the basiphilic iron-containing chromatin. By this method certain accessory bodies of the nucleus are shown. There is first an increase in the amount of iron-reacting material in the nucleus, after which it begins to diminish, and may reach a point below that of the normal level. 6. There is an initial decrease in the size of the cells, which is followed by a gradual swelling. Vacuolisation of the cytoplasm is frequently seen. The nucleus is affected to a less extent than the cytoplasm. Vacuolisation of the former was not observed. 7. These alterations are not sufficiently characteristic to support the theory of a specific reaction, and are not in a true sense diametrically opposite in their course to those associated with parathyroid tetany, where excitation rather than depression is the prominent symptom. 8. The changes are believed to be due to a state of depressed metabolism resulting from the loss of the thyroid principle, and are sufficiently advanced and extensive to account, in part at least, for the abnormal behaviour of the animals involved. The writer wishes to express his deepest appreciation to Dr S. A. Goldberg, of the Department of Pathology and Bacteriology, New York State Veterinary College, Cornell University, who conducted the post-mortem examinations for the cases described above. The cost of this investigation has been defrayed, in part, by a grant from the Heckscher Research Foundation of Cornell University.
Phase I Trial of Ifosfamide and 24-h Infusional Paclitaxel in Pelvic Malignancies: A Gynecologic Oncology Group Study

Abstract Objective. The goal of this work was to develop a combination chemotherapy regimen consisting of ifosfamide and paclitaxel to be evaluated in the management of gynecologic malignancies. Methods. The Gynecologic Oncology Group conducted a Phase I trial of the regimen, initially with paclitaxel (24-h infusion) delivered on Day 1 and ifosfamide (1 h) administered (with Mesna) over the subsequent 4 days. All patients received granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) starting 24 h after the Day 5 chemotherapy. Treatment was repeated on a 28-day schedule. A cohort of patients also received the alternate sequence of ifosfamide (4 days) followed by paclitaxel. Results. Twenty-two patients were evaluated. Even at the lowest dose level tested (paclitaxel 135 mg/m 2 followed by ifosfamide 1 g/m 2 /day × 4 days) grade 4 neutropenia was almost universal, despite the routine use of G-CSF. The alternate drug administration sequence resulted in marrow suppression of similar severity. Conclusion. The combination of 24-h infusional paclitaxel with ifosfamide delivered over 4 days results in severe neutropenia, despite the administration of G-CSF, and is not recommended for further evaluation. In view of the known activity of the two agents in several malignancies, including cervix cancer, it would be reasonable to investigate the delivery of the agents employing alternative treatment schedules predicted to result in less severe marrow suppression (e.g., 3-h infusional paclitaxel).