cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Solution of Travelling Salesman Problems Based on Industrial Data

This paper partially replicates a comparison of travelling salesman heuristics carried out by Golden et al. more than a decade ago. It differs in two important ways, however. (1) We consider two heuristics—k-OPT and the space filling curve technique—which were developed after the original comparison. These new techniques appear to add little to the quality of solutions to the test problems utilized here. (2) Instead of test problems using geographical data, ours are based on programs for parts produced by a numerically controlled machine. Because of the different characteristics of these test problems we reach somewhat different conclusions concerning the efficacy of the different procedures.
Spaceflight hardware allowing unilateral irradiation and chemical fixation in petri dishes

To accommodate a spaceflight experiment with moss (SPM), experiment-unique equipment (EUE) was developed by engineers at Kennedy Space Center. The hardware allows sterile culture for an extended period of time in commercial petri dishes, lateral illumination of each culture with light of a specific wavelength (660 nm; other wavelengths are possible) and a range of intensities (0.05-5 micromoles photons m-2 s-1), incubation in complete darkness, and chemical fixation to terminate the experiment under conditions of microgravity. The use of a fixative required triple containment to protect the astronaut crew. An external panel on the experiment container allowed the timing of illumination and fixation to be controlled by the crew. Light quality is provided by light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are located in the lid of the outer container, the BRIC (Biological Research In Canisters)-LED. Each canister accommodates 6 Petri Dish Fixation Units (PDFUs), and each PDFU holds one 6 cm petri dish. All components are autoclavable. LED illumination is piped through a transparent glass rod. Each PDFU contains fixative in a reservoir that is released by the depression of an actuator. This hardware performed well during its first flight, the 16-day STS-87 mission in Nov./Dec., 1997 as part of the Collaborative USA and Ukrainian Experiment (CUE). It supported vigorous and sterile moss growth, cells were maintained in position and were well-fixed, and there was a vigorous and consistent response to light. Although here used for moss, in future flight experiments this unique new hardware can be used for many types of organisms normally grown in petri dishes, with or without a requirement for illumination.
Effect of silane addition on acetylene ignition behind reflected shock waves

Abstract Ignition delay time and species profile measurements are reported for the combustion of C2H2/O2/Ar mixtures with and without the addition of silane for temperatures between 1040 and 2320 K and pressures near 1 atm. Characteristic times, namely ignition time and time to peak, were determined from the time histories of CH* (A2Δ → X2Π) and OH* (A2Σ+ → X2Π) emission near 430 and 307 nm, respectively. For the cases without silane, there is good agreement between the present data and some recent acetylene oxidation results. Small SiH4 additions (
Some selection procedures

A big California bank selects only one-armed men for its economics department because its top management is tired of economists advising that, on the one hand "this" might occur, but on the other hand, "that" may happen.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Added Cycling Facilities

Cycling is well acknowledged as one of the most energy-efficient and healthy modes of transport; walking follows closely. Many approaches and models have been devoted to finding ways to increase the proportion of bicycle trips. However, significant uncertainty exists about the level and effectiveness of added cycling facilities. Few studies have conducted a detailed cost-benefit analysis (CBA) of added cycling facilities. To fill this knowledge gap, a comprehensive method is proposed for estimating the most important benefit components and expenses associated with the installation of bicycle facilities and gaining a better understanding of the strategies used to identify their effect. The general CBA framework that is developed could be used as a traffic planning tool for relieving congestion and improving bicycle networks. The tool can generate preliminary cost estimates quickly at an early planning stage. The focus is primarily on cycling, but the findings may be easily applied to other active modes of ...
A comparison of conscious and automatic memory processes for picture and word stimuli: a process dissociation analysis.

Abstract Four experiments were conducted to evaluate explanations of picture superiority effects previously found for several tasks. In a process dissociation procedure ( Jacoby, 1991 ) with word stem completion, picture fragment completion, and category production tasks, conscious and automatic memory processes were compared for studied pictures and words with an independent retrieval model and a generate-source model. The predictions of a transfer appropriate processing account of picture superiority were tested and validated in “process pure” latent measures of conscious and unconscious, or automatic and source, memory processes. Results from both model fits verified that pictures had a conceptual (conscious/source) processing advantage over words for all tasks. The effects of perceptual (automatic/word generation) compatibility depended on task type, with pictorial tasks favoring pictures and linguistic tasks favoring words. Results show support for an explanation of the picture superiority effect that involves an interaction of encoding and retrieval processes.
Solid state crystal growth of the spinel MgGa2O4

Abstract The solid state reaction at 1600 °C of single crystals of MgO and β-Ga 2 O 3 to form the spinel MgGa 2 O 4 has been investigated. Three sets of reaction couples consisting of the (100), (110) and (111) planes of MgO contacting the (001) plane β-Ga 2 O 3 were studied. All the reaction products were MgGa 2 O 4 in single crystal form. The Wagner mechanism of counter diffusion across the reaction interface was verified. In each instant where spinel was formed, it adhered strongly to the host crystal. Spinel formed by vapor transport was also observed on the MgO crystal.
Water-induced interactions between carbon nanoparticles.

Molecular dynamics simulations were carried out in order to study the hydration of C60 fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, and graphene sheets in aqueous solution and the nature of water-induced interactions between these carbon nanoparticles. The hydration of these nonpolar carbon nanoparticles does not exhibit classical hydrophobic character due to the high density of surface atoms (carbon) resulting in strong water−surface dispersion interactions. Water was found to wet the nanoparticle surfaces independent of nanoparticle surface curvature, with the decrease in the extent of water−water hydrogen bonding with decreasing surface curvature being offset by stronger water−surface interactions. While all carbon nanoparticles investigated are anticipated to aggregate in water due to strong direct nanoparticle−nanoparticle interactions, the water-induced interactions between nanoparticles were found to be repulsive and, in contrast to the wetting behavior, were observed to exhibit strong dependence on surface curva...
On the kinetics of liver enzyme regression following induction

Abstract It is shown that a number of workers have incorrectly considered that the rate of decline (regression) of induced liver enzyme activity is directly proportional to the actual enzyme concentration whereas both theory and observation indicate that the decay curve is a function of both a first-order degradation rate and a counteracting zero-order normal rate of synthesis. Thus, semilogarithmic plots of actual enzyme concentration as a function of time during regression have resulted in the appearance in the literature of spuriously high values for the half-lives of several enzymes and/or erroneously low values for their degradation rate constants. Since these constants are a major factor in the analysis of enzyme induction kinetics, the accuracy of their determination from activity regression data is extremely important. The correct method for treating such data is reiterated.
Media Attention and Exposure in Relation to Support for Agricultural Biotechnology

This article shows that attention to television news, science television, and entertainment television are all significantly related to a composite measure of agricultural biotechnology support aft...
Fracture Toughness of Polycrystalline Ceramics in Combined Mode I and Mode II Loading

The present investigation of the fracture of alumina and zirconia polycrystalline ceramic specimens of precracked-disk type, in diametral compression, evaluated fracture toughness in pure mode I, combined mode I/mode II, and pure mode II, depending on the alignment of the center crack relative to the loading diameter. The mixed-mode fracture-toughness envelope thus obtained exhibits significant deviation to higher fracture toughness in mode II, relative to the predictions of linear elastic fracture mechanics theory. Crack-surface resistance due to grain-interlocking and abrasion are identified as the primary sources of increased fracture resistance in mode II loading of the polycrystalline ceramics.
Role of the Renin-Angiotensin System in Dogs with Perinephritis Hypertension

SummaryCellophane perinephritis hypertension was produced in four dogs, while five additional dogs served as normotensive controls. A competitive antagonist of angiotensin II, 1-sarcosine-8-alanine angiotensin II, was infused iv into these conscious dogs at a rate of 6 μg/min/kg of body weight for 45 min. Arterial pressure averaged 170 ± 11 (SEM) mm Hg in the dogs with perinephritic hypertension, and was not altered significantly during infusion of the angiotensin antagonist. In the normal dogs the arterial pressure averaged 100 ± 10 mm Hg and likewise, did not change during administration of the angiotensin analog. Plasma renin activity values were essentially the same in these two groups of dogs and did not change during infusion of the angiotensin antagonist. These studies provide strong evidence that the renin-angiotensin system is not involved in maintaining the elevated arterial pressure in dogs with chronic hypertension produced by cellophane perinephritis.The authors gratefully thank Dr. A. W. Cas...
Mentalization: Ontogeny, Assessment, and Application in the Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder

This article aims to review the development of the concept of mentalization, its applications in the understanding and treatment of borderline personality disorder, and the issue of its assessment. While conceptually derivative of theory of mind, Fonagy's concept of mentalization concerns more affectively and interpersonally complex understandings of oneself and others, reflecting abilities that enable an individual not only to navigate the social world effectively but also to develop an enriched, stable sense of self. The components of mentalization can be organized around self-/other-oriented, implicit/explicit, and cognitive/affective dimensions. Concepts of mindfulness, psychological mindedness, empathy, and affect consciousness are shown to partially overlap with mentalization within these three dimensions. Mentalization is assessed by the measure of reflective function, a scale to be used adjunctively on semistructured narrative interviews such as the Adult Attachment Interview. Its validity has not been fully tested, and its usage has been hampered by the time and expense it requires. Although the concept of mentalization is a useful heuristic that enables clinicians to adopt a coherent treatment approach, it may be too broad and multifaceted to be operationalized as a marker for specific forms of psychopathology such as borderline personality disorder. Research elucidating the relationship between reflective function, overlapping concepts, and features of borderline psychopathology is needed.
Protein digestibility-corrected amino acid scores, acceptability and storage stability of ready-to-eat supplementary foods for pre-school age children in Tanzania

This study was conducted to evaluate protein quality, acceptability and storage stability of processed cereal–bean–sardine composite foods for pre-school age children in Tanzania. Four composite products namely corn–bean–sardine meal (CBSM), bean meal (BM), sorghum–bean–sardine meal (SBSM) and rice–bean–sardine meal (RBSM) were formulated to maximize the amino acid score for pre-school age children and were processed by extrusion, drum-processing and conventional cooking. The products were evaluated for true protein digestibility (TPD) and protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS). The TPD and PDCAAS were highest in the extruded products. The TPD values for the products ranged from 82 to 93%. The PDCAAS values for the composite foods were 64–86% and were greater than the minimum value of 60% recommended by FAO/WHO/UNU. There were no significant (p > 0.05) variations in the amino acid contents for foods processed by extrusion, drum-processing or conventional cooking. Threonine was most limiting in the CBSM, SBSM and RBSM while methionine + cysteine were most limiting in the BM. Sensory evaluation showed that, relative to the traditional cornmeal—Uji, the extruded CBSM and SBSM had significantly superior (p ≤ 0.05) texture and highly acceptable color and taste. Storage of the products up to 16 weeks at 38 °C resulted in a small but significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in the malondialdehyde concentrations; nevertheless, the levels remained within the acceptable range found in processed commercial supplements. Total acids, pH and organoleptic attributes did not change significantly (p > 0.05) during storage and the foods were acceptable to the end of the storage period. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Cytogenetic studies of South American diploid Solanums, section tuberarium

Meiosis is regular in a majority of the microsporocytes in a number of clones of six South American diploid species and their hybrids. Meiotic abnormalities such as the presence of univalents, quadrivalents, chromatin bridges and fragments, laggards, formation of restitution nuclei, micronuclei and other irregularities are extant in a small percentage of microsporocytes. The presence of occasional quadrivalents in certain clones of some species and hybrids suggests the existence of some structural differences between certain chromosomes. This probability is further supported by the occurrence of a bridge and fragment resulting from inversion heterozygosity and delayed separation of certain bivalents. The presence of univalents may be caused by segmental or genetic differences between homologous chromosomes as well as to other factors and cannot be entirely explained as being due to precocious separation of rod bivalents. However, the fact that the maximum possible number of bivalents are realized in a large number of the pollen mother cells suggests that such structural differences cannot be very extensive. An unusual type of nucleolus formation occurs. The frequency of various types of secondary groupings is variable.
Alectinib Salvages CNS Relapses in ALK-Positive Lung Cancer Patients Previously Treated with Crizotinib and Ceritinib

Background Leptomeningeal metastases (LM) are an increasingly frequent and devastating complication of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-rearranged non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Currently, the optimal management of LM in ALK-positive patients remains poorly understood as these patients have been routinely excluded from clinical trials. Methods We describe four ALK-positive patients with LM who were treated with the next-generation ALK inhibitor alectinib through single-patient, compassionate use protocols at two institutions. All patients had previously been treated with both FDA-approved ALK inhibitors—crizotinib and ceritinib. Patients received alectinib at a starting dose of 600 mg twice daily. Results Four ALK-positive NSCLC patients with symptomatic leptomeningeal disease were identified. Three of four patients experienced significant clinical and radiographic improvements in LM upon treatment with alectinib. A fourth patient had stable intracranial disease for 4 months before eventual systemic disease progression. Overall, alectinib was well tolerated. One patient required dose reduction due to grade 2 hyperbilirubinemia. Conclusions Alectinib is active in ALK-rearranged NSCLC patients with LM, including in patients previously treated with crizotinib and ceritinib. Additional prospective studies of alectinib in ALK-positive patients with LM are warranted.
Determination of the thermal expansion of Nb3Sn superconducting composites by digital microimage processing

The thermal expansion of Nb3Sn superconducting composites has been investigated with newly developed electro-optical measurement technique. In this method, deformation of the sample is recorded with two CCD cameras equipped with long distance micro objective lenses. Image processing is accomplished with a high resolution frame grabber and an auxiliary high speed processor board. The linear thermal expansion data of two different samples are reported from room temperature down to 73 K. The results are compared with the linear thermal expansion of copper and Nb3Sn, the main components of the composite itself. The temperature dependence of (Delta) L/L at low temperature has been generated. A simple analytical method was used to evaluate the values of the mean thermal expansion coefficient ((alpha) ). Good agreement has been found between the experimental results and the analytically evaluated values.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Maladaptive Correlates of the Failure to Forgive Self and Others: Further Evidence for a Two-Component Model of Forgiveness

In a sample composed of 162 young adults, we examined the generalizability of an orthogonal, 2-component model of forgiveness previously reported by Ross, Kendall, Matters, Rye, and Wrobel (2004). Furthermore, we examined the relationship of these two components with maladaptive personality characteristics as measured by the Schedule for Nonadaptive and Adaptive Personality (SNAP; Clark, 1993), with an emphasis on Five-factor model markers of personality. Using multiple measures of forgiveness, principal components analysis supported a 2-component model representing self-forgiveness and other forgiveness. Despite the independence of self-forgiveness and other forgiveness, zero order correlations with SNAP scales supported convergent more than discriminant validity. In contrast, hierarchical multiple regression analyses emphasized the discriminant validity of self-forgiveness and other forgiveness. Among indices of Neuroticism, Extraversion, and Agreeableness, Negative Temperament (+) was the sole predictor of self-forgiveness. In contrast, Positive Temperament (+), Aggression (-), and Histrionic PD (-) were most associated with other forgiveness. Overall, these findings support the validity of these factors and highlight the importance of self-forgiveness in clinical assessment.
Point/CounterpointNetwork neutrality nuances

A discussion of divergent paths to unrestricted access of content and applications via the Internet.
Fresh assault on hepatitis C

Hepatitis C virus causes severe liver disease. Initial trials of a newly developed agent that prevents the virus reproducing itself look promising. But what are the future prospects for this treatment?
Selective Binding of the TATA Box-Binding Protein to the TATA Box-Containing Promoter: Analysis of Structural and Energetic Factors

We report the results of an energy-based exploration of the components of selective recognition of the TATA box-binding protein (TBP) to a TATA box sequence that includes 1) the interaction between the hydrophobic Leu, Pro, and Phe residues of TBP with the TA, AT, AA, TT, and CG steps, by ab initio quantum mechanical calculations; and 2) the free energy penalty, calculated from molecular dynamics/potential of mean force simulations, for the conformational transition from A-DNA and B-DNA into the TA-DNA form of DNA observed in a complex with TBP. The GTAT, GATT, GAAT, and GTTT tetramers were explored. The results show that 1) the discrimination of TA, AT, AA, TT, or CG steps by TBP cannot rest on their interaction with the inserting Phe side chains; 2) the steric clash between the bulky and hydrophobic Pro and Leu residues and the protruding —NH2 group of guanine is responsible for the observed selectivity against any Gua-containing basepair; 3) the Pro and Leu residues cannot selectively discriminate among TA, AT, AA, or TT steps; and 4) the calculated energy required to achieve the TA-DNA conformation of DNA that is observed in the complex with TBP appears to be a key determinant for the observed selectivity against the AT, AA, and TT steps. The simulations also indicate that only the TA step can form a very efficient interbase hydrogen bond network in the TA-DNA conformation. Such an energetically stabilizing network is not achievable in the AA and TT steps. While it is viable in the AT step, structural constraints render the hydrogen bonding network energetically ineffective there.
Optimum classification of correlation-plane data by Bayesian decision theory

A multimodal model for correlation-plane distributions generated by composite filters is presented. From this model a statistical classifier referred to as a composite Bayesian classifier is developed. By exploiting the Gaussian behavior of correlation-plane data, this classifier concisely represents multimodal distributions as composite algebraic functions. These multimodal distributions, each of which is constructed by superposition of many normal distributions, are used to partition a vector signal space into optimum classification regions derived from Bayes's likelihood ratio test. For the purpose of validating the multimodal model, expected performance for the training images is derived from calibration data and compared with observed performance.
Functional Anatomy of the Flexor Pronator Muscle Group in Relation to the Medial Collateral Ligament of the Elbow

To describe the relationship of the pronator teres, flexor carpi radialis, flexor digitorum superficialis, and flexor carpi ulnaris muscles to the medial collateral ligament at 30 degrees, 90 degrees, and 120 degrees of elbow flexion, we dissected 11 cadaveric specimens. The flexor carpi ulnaris muscle is the predominant musculotendinous unit overlying the medial collateral ligament in the majority of cases and is the only one at 120 degrees of elbow flexion. The flexor digitorum superficialis muscle is the only other significant contributor. The medial collateral ligament is the primary stabilizer of the medial elbow with elbow flexion greater than 30 degrees, as in throwing. The flexor carpi ulnaris muscle, because of its position directly over the medial collateral ligament, and the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle, with its near proximity and relatively large bulk, are the specific muscles best suited to provide medial elbow support. This is especially relevant to overhand throwing athletes who encounter extreme valgus force across the elbow during the cocking and acceleration phases of the throwing motion. Exercise and conditioning of the medial elbow musculature, specifically the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle and the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle, may prevent injury or assist in rehabilitation of medial elbow instability, especially in overhand throwing athletes.
Recognition memory as a function of length of study list

Previous work indicates that when appropriate methods are used, recognition memory for words does not differ as a function of the length of the study list (Schulman, 1974). There are theoretical reasons for believing that recognition errors and length of study list should be directly related. In Schulman’s study, only the first 25 words in the study lists of different lengths were tested. In the present study, only the last 20 words in the lists of different lengths were tested. Recognition errors increased as length of study list increased. The theoretical reasons for expecting this outcome were not supported by internal analysis of errors. The discrepancy between the present finding and that of Schulman may indicate that the relationship between length of list and errors occurs only when proactive effects can influence the words tested, although just what these proactive effects might be is unclear.
Free vibration and buckling of shear-deformable cross-ply laminated plates using the state-space concept

Abstract Generalized Levy-type solutions are obtained for the problems of linear vibration and stability of cross-ply laminated plates. The governing equations, which are derived by using the principle of virtual displacement and a third-order shear-deformation plate theory, are transformed into a set of first-order linear ordinary differential equations with constant coefficients. The general solution of these equations can be obtained by using the state-space concept. Then, application of the boundary conditions yields equations for the natural frequencies and buckling loads. Unfortunately, a straightforward application of the state-space concept yields numerically ill-conditioned problems as the plate thickness is reduced. Various methods for overcoming this problem are discussed. A combination of an initial-value method and the modified Gram-Schmidt orthonormalization procedure is used to overcome this problem. It is shown that this method not only yields results that are in excellent agreement with the results in the literature, but also it converges fast and gives all the frequencies and buckling loads regardless of the plate thickness.
Workplace learning: the roles of knowledge accessibility and management

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine how knowledge management systems have been used by the studied organizations to improve knowledge accessibility and knowledge sharing in order to increase workplace learning.Design/methodology/approach – The study relies on a qualitative multisite case study method. Data were obtained from five organizations at a southern state in the USA. Multiple interviews, onsite observation, and documentation analyses were conducted at each studied organization. Data analysis used open coding and thematic analysis. Results were triangulated based on multiple data sources.Findings – The findings revealed that the learning environment of an organization is important for workplace learning. All studied organizations share a need for a conversion of tacit to explicit knowledge in order to facilitate effective informal learning in the workplace. This research concludes that engineering the learning environment through effective knowledge management should be a cohesive eff...
Dye-sensitized solar cell fabricated by electrostatic layer-by-layer assembly of amphoteric TiO2 nanoparticles

Nanocrystalline TiO2 amphoteric colloidal charged particles and polyelectrolytes have been used to fabricate a dye-sensitized solar cell. Two weak polyelectrolytes, poly(allylamine hydrochloride) and poly(acrylic acid), and two strong polyelectrolytes, poly(dimethyldiallylammonium chloride) (PDAC) and poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate), have been utilized to assemble polyion/TiO2 nanocomposite multilayered films by the electrostatic layer-by-layer deposition technique. The layer-by-layer assembly of the TiO2 nanoparticles proceeds linearly as shown by sequential UV−vis absorption and thickness measurements. The morphology of these assemblies was characterized using atomic force microscopy. The nanoporous polyion/TiO2 films were sintered and used as working electrodes for cis-di(thiocyanato)-N,N-bis(2,2‘-bipyridyldicarboxylate)-ruthenium(II) (N3) sensitized solar cells. I−V characteristics of the solar cells made by the calcinated polyelectrolyte/TiO2 electrodes show several interesting results. (i) The short...
The Contextual Association Network Activates More for Remembered than for Imagined Events

The human capacities to remember events from the past and imagine events in the future rely on highly overlapping neural substrates. Neuroimaging studies have revealed brain regions that are more active for imagined events than remembered events, but the reverse pattern has not been shown consistently. Given that remembered events tend to be associated with more contextual information (Johnson et al. 1988), one might expect a set of regions to demonstrate greater activity for remembered events. Specifically, regions sensitive to the strength of contextual associations might be hypothesized to show greater activity for remembered events. The present experiment tests this hypothesis. fMRI was used to identify brain regions within the contextual association network (Bar and Aminoff 2003); regions within this network were then examined to see whether they showed differential activity during remembering and imagining. Bilateral regions within the parahippocampal cortex and retrosplenial complex responded more strongly to remembered past events, supporting work that suggests these events have more contextual information associated with them. Follow-up voxel-wise analysis demonstrated the specificity of these results, as did reanalysis of previous experimental datasets. These results suggest that a key differentiating feature of remembering and imagining is the strength of contextual associations.
Combustion-synthesized β′-SiAlON reinforced with SiC monofilaments

Abstract Dense composites of combustion-synthesized β′-Si 3 Al 3 O 3 N 5 (β′-SiAlON) reinforced with 20 vol.% SiC monofilaments (AVCO SCS-6) were hot pressed at a temperature of 1600 °C for 2 h under a pressure of 34 MPa. The mechanical properties of as-fabricated composites were investigated in the three-point flexure mode. The composites exhibited significant improvement in the work of fracture as well as in the ultimate strength, in comparison with monolithic β′-SiAlON. Ultimate flexure strength values between 682 and 793 MPa for the composite and between 398 and 528 MPa for the monolithic β′-SiAlON were obtained. A work of fracture of 13–20 kJ m −2 was obtained for the composite, compared with 1.7-3.1 kJ m −2 for the monolithic material. Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examinations of the fractured specimens showed the usual composite toughening mechanisms of microcracking. interfacial debonding, filament bridging and pull-out. The interfacial shear strength as well as frictional stress were also investigated with a fiber push-out technique. The push-out load-deflection curves revealed a moderate interfacial bonding strength of 26 MPa and a frictional sliding stress of 24 MPa. Transmission electron microscopy interfacial characterization was correlated with SEM observation of the interfacial debonding site. It revealed the presence of definite but weak physical bonding between the outermost carbon-rich layer of the SiC filament and the matrix. It appeared that the filament and the matrix were compatible with each other both physically and chemically, despite the fact that the matrix contained 20 wt.%Al 2 O 3 as a secondary phase.
Pharmacotherapeutic Advances in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction

An estimated 20 million to 30 million American men have erectile dysfunction (ED). The past 2 decades of research defining erectile physiology and investigating the pathogenesis of ED have led to the recognition of a predominantly vascular basis for organic male sexual dysfunction. These scientific advances have laid the foundation for the advent of pharmacotherapies. The Food and Drug Administration approval of intracavernosal, intraurethral, and oral pharmacotherapeutics for ED has revolutionized nonsurgical management of this condition. The primary care physician is faced with the challenges of diagnosis and treatment of ED, as well as referral of patients to urologists. In this article, erectile physiology and pathophysiology are reviewed, and pharmacotherapeutics are classified and discussed by their mechanisms of action and the means of administration. A thorough understanding of these new therapeutic options is key to the accurate diagnosis and successful treatment of ED and maximal patient satisfaction and care.
Reliability and discriminative ability of a modified Wingate rowing test in 12- to 18-year-old rowers

Abstract We evaluated (1) the test–retest reliability of the Wingate test conducted on a rowing ergometer, and (2) the sensitivity of this test in determining the differences in performance attained by 12- to 18-year-old rowers. Altogether, 297 male rowers aged 12.0–18.9 years (mean ± s: 14.8 ± 1.7) completed a maximal 30-s test on a rowing ergometer, and 80 rowers representing all age groups were retested after 5–7 days. No change was evident in participants' performance in terms of mean power output (P = 0.726; Cohen's d = 0.04), maximal power output (P = 0.567; Cohen's d = 0.06), and minimum power output (P = 0.318; Cohen's d = 0.11) in the second test. The intra-class correlation coefficients were high (≥0.973) and coefficients of variation were low (≤7.3%). A series of analyses of variance were used to compare the performances among 12- to 18-year-old rowers, and age-related increases in performance were evident (P < 0.001; Cohen's d = 1.91–1.96). The age-related increases in performance were similar...
Design and synthesis of (E)-4-((3-ethyl-2,4,4-trimethylcyclohex-2-enylidene)methyl)benzoic acid

Abstract ( E )-4-((3-Ethyl-2,4,4-trimethylcyclohex-2-enylidene)methyl)benzoic acid, 6 , was synthesized in 87% starting from β-cyclocitral. The target compound 6 was synthesized starting from 1 via a Grignard reaction to form alcohol 2 . Compound 2 was converted to Wittig salt 3 by treatment with aldehyde 4 in butyllithium and hexane at −78 °C to form ester 5 . Ester 5 was saponified and, following acidification, acid 6 was isolated as white solid yield 87%.
Pompeiu's problem on discrete space

Abstract Let [unk] be a finite family of finite subsets of the n-dimensional lattice Zn, and let τ denote the group of all translations of Zn. We shall here consider the Pompeiu problem for the family [unk]—namely, to determine when the only function f:Zn → C such that [Formula: see text] is the zero function.
Profile design for distortion reduction in microwave field-effect transistors

Profile shaping can reduce third-order intermodulation distortion in microwave f.e.t.s. The mathematical form of the profiles to accomplish this has been derived. It is shown that two forms are possible, one corresponding to a doping spike, the other to an inverse cubic decrease in doping with distance from the episurface. The first has been approximated by workers in the field. The second is believed to be novel.
The induction of tRNAphe in mammalian lens cortex: A possible control point in the synthesis of α-crystallin

Bovine lens tissue is the only tissue reported to contain two major phenylalanine tRNA species with different primary sequences. One of the these species, tRNA1phe, is unique to lens tissue and is induced as a result of bovine lens cell differentiation. A survey of other mammalian lenses showed that tRNA1phe, was also present as a minor peak in human and pig lens, but was absent in rabbit, rat and dog lens. tRNA1phe, when present, appears to be active in vivo since it was found bound to isolated lens polysomes and was aminoacylated in cultured lens cells. The level of total tRNAphe in several capsule—epithelium preparations was variable; however, the level of tRNAphe in the lens cortex preparations was uniform at 38 pmol/A260. These data are consistent with an inducible tRNAphe gene which is expressed during differentiation resulting in an increase in tRNAphe to levels high enough to support the synthesis of lens proteins. A comparison of tRNA acceptance activities with the amino acid composition of the lens carystallins showed that several tRNAs were present in less than predicted amounts. Of these, tRNApro and surprisingly tRNAphe were relatively the most limiting. This limitation was accentuated when compared to the amino acid composition of α-crystallin. It is suggested that these tRNAs may modulate the synthesis of α-crystallin A and B subunits at the translational level.
Runaway electron confinement modelling for rapid shutdown scenarios in DIII-D, Alcator C-Mod and ITER

MHD simulations of rapid shutdown scenarios by massive particle injection in DIII-D, Alcator C-Mod and ITER are performed in order to study runaway electron (RE) transport during mitigated disruptions. The simulations include a RE confinement model using drift-orbit calculations for test particles. A comparison of limited and diverted plasma shapes is studied in DIII-D simulations, and improved confinement in the limited shape is found due to both spatial localization and reduced toroidal spectrum in the nonlinear MHD activity. C-Mod simulations compare shutdown scenarios in which impurity (Ar) fuelling is concentrated in the edge versus the core, and the confinement of REs in the core is maintained until the onset of the m = 1/n = 1 mode, which is delayed in the case of edge deposition, relative to core deposition. But, the overall RE loss fraction is 100% regardless of Ar fuelling profile. A comparison of simulations across the three devices points to a trend of increased RE confinement with increasing device size, wherein all REs are lost in C-Mod, all are confined in ITER, and a partial loss is observed in DIII-D. This trend is related to a reduction in the fluctuating field amplitude near the plasma edge during the thermal-quench-induced MHD activity. The result bodes poorly for RE mitigation strategies in ITER that rely on MHD deconfinement of REs.
Uptake of arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury from polluted waters by the water hyacinth Eichornia crassipes

Abstract The water hyacinth Eichornia crassipes was studied as a pollution monitor for the simultaneous accumulation of arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury. After cultivation of the plants for 2 days in tanks containing 10 ppm of each of the metals in aqueous solution, the plants were harvested and rinsed with tap water. The leaves and stems were separated and analysed for each of the metals. The ratio of the concentrations of arsenic and mercury in the leaves to the concentrations in the stems was found to be 2:1. Cadmium and lead showed a concentration ratio in leaves to stems of about 1:1. The leaf concentration of arsenic was the lowest of the metals at 0·3428 mg g −1 of dried plant material whilst the leaf concentration of cadmium was highest at 0·5740 mg g −1 of dried plant material. Control plants were grown in unpolluted water. Plants grown in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi sewage lagoon were also analysed. The mercury concentrations of the leaves of plants grown in the sewage lagoon were significantly different from the control sample which had a concentration of 0·0700 mg g −1 of dried plant material.
Identifying possible sources of inmate crowding in U.S. jails

This note presents results from an aggregate-level study of several possible correlates of inmate crowding in county jails during 1983 (n=505) and 1988 (n=522). Findings revealed that jurisdiction variables (court caseload, degree of urbanism) and state variables (sentencing practices, degree of prison inmate crowding) are at least as significant as jail variables (type of standards, frequency of inspections, enforcement system for standards, inmate population composition) for predicting the degree of inmate crowding. This suggests that policies designed to reduce crowding should be sophisticated enough to account for the possible effects of all three groups of variables.
Mechanical activation of dorsal root ganglion cells in vitro: comparison with capsaicin and modulation by κ-opioids

The aim of this study was to characterize plasma membrane pathways involved in the intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) response of small DRG neurons to mechanical stimulation and the modulation of these pathways by kappa-opioids. [Ca(2+)](i) responses were measured by fluorescence video microscopy of Fura-2 labeled lumbosacral DRG neurons obtained from adult rats in short-term primary culture. Transient focal mechanical stimulation of the soma, or brief superfusion with 300 nM capsaicin, resulted to [Ca(2+)](i) increases which were abolished in Ca(2+)-free solution, but unaffected by lanthanum (25 microM) or tetrodotoxin (10(-6) M). 156 out of 465 neurons tested (34%) showed mechanosensitivity while 55 out of 118 neurons (47%) were capsaicin-sensitive. Ninty percent of capsaicin-sensitive neurons were mechanosensitive. Gadolinium (Gd(3+); 250 microM) and amiloride (100 microM) abolished the [Ca(2+)](i) transient in response to mechanical stimulation, but had no effect on capsaicin-induced [Ca(2+)](i) transients. The kappa-opioid agonists U50,488 and fedotozine showed a dose-dependent inhibition of mechanically stimulated [Ca(2+)](i) transients but had little effect on capsaicin-induced [Ca(2+)](i) transients. The inhibitory effect of U50,488 was abolished by the kappa-opioid antagonist nor-Binaltorphimine dihydrochloride (nor-BNI; 100 nM), and by high concentrations of naloxone (30-100 nM), but not by low concentrations of naloxone (3 nM). We conclude that mechanically induced [Ca(2+)](i) transients in small diameter DRG somas are mediated by influx of Ca(2+) through a Gd(3+)- and amiloride-sensitive plasma membrane pathway that is co-expressed with capsaicin-sensitive channels. Mechanical-, but not capsaicin-mediated, Ca(2+) transients are sensitive to kappa-opioid agonists.
The Enumeration of Graphical Partitions

The present paper greatly extends and elaborates the results of a previous paper by Stein on the enumeration of graphical partitions. The latter are a subset of partitions π ⊢ 2q with exactly p non-zero parts, with q and p respectively the number of lines and points of a graph without multiple lines, loops or isolated points. The enumeration is effected in terms of an auxiliary set of partitions λ which are in 1-1 correspondence with an appropriate subclass of the partitions π. It is shown, inter alia, how Hakimi's algorithm imposes a definite recursive structure on the set {λ}. It is also shown how to write down in principle explicit enumeration formulae for any r≡q−p.
Quadrupolar Solvent Effects on Solvation and Reactivity of Solutes Dissolved in Supercritical CO2

This article presents an overview of our recent studies of solvation and unimolecular reactivity in liquids and supercritical fluids. We review our research on rotational diffusion and photoisomerization kinetics of diphenylpolyenes in polar liquids and supercritical fluids. These results provide a qualitative demonstration of the influence of solvent quadrupole−solute dipole interactions on chemical reactivity in supercritical CO2. The CO2 quadrupole moment both increases solvent−solute friction experienced by a dipolar diphenylpolyene solute molecule and diminishes the activation barrier of the isomerization reaction via interaction with the polar transition state. We also review our recent studies of quadrupolar solvation and excited-state excimer formation kinetics of ADMA (1-[9-anthryl]-3-[4-N,N-dimethylaniline] propane). The ADMA studies have yielded quantitative confirmation of the importance of quadrupolar solvent−dipolar solute interactions in solvation and reactivity in supercritical CO2. The re...
The Race for Timbuktu: In Search of Africa's City of Gold – By Frank T. Kryza

For Alexander Gordon Laing, intrepid Scotsman and zealous participant in the early nineteenth‐century “race for Timbuktu,” the stakes were high: discovery of the legendary lost city; locating the s...
Role of serotonin and dopamine system interactions in the neurobiology of impulsive aggression and its comorbidity with other clinical disorders

Impulsive aggression is characterized by an inability to regulate affect as well as aggressive impulses, and is highly comorbid with other mental disorders including depression, suicidal behavior, and substance abuse. In an effort to elucidate the neurobiological underpinnings of impulsive aggression and to help account for its connections with these other disorders, this paper reviews relevant biochemical, brain-imaging, and genetic studies. The review suggests that dysfunctional interactions between serotonin and dopamine systems in the prefrontal cortex may be an important mechanism underlying the link between impulsive aggression and its comorbid disorders. Specifically, serotonin hypofunction may represent a biochemical trait that predisposes individuals to impulsive aggression, with dopamine hyperfunction contributing in an additive fashion to the serotonergic deficit. The current paper proposes a modified diathesis–stress model of impulsive aggression in which the underlying biological diathesis may be a deficient serotonergic function in the ventral prefrontal cortex. This underlying disposition can be manifested behaviorally as impulsive aggression towards oneself and others, and as depression under precipitating life stressors. Substance abuse associated with impulsive aggression is understood in the context of dopamine dysregulation resulting from serotonergic deficiency. Also discussed are future research directions in the neurobiology of impulsive aggression and its comorbid disorders.
Full wave modeling of VLF wave scattering and propagation in curvilinear stratified ionosphere

We describe two enhancements to Stanford Full Wave Method (StanfordFWM) for calculation of electromagnetic field radiated into a stratified medium by arbitrarily positioned monochromatic sources [1,2]. In the first part, we consider the problem of scattering on strong ionospheric disturbances. We introduce a novel computational technique which combines StanfordFWM with the method of moments (MoM), instead of the previously used Born approximation method [3]. In the second part, we demonstrate a method to include the curvature of stratification layers into the full-wave approach. This method is used to calculate the attenuation and height gains for ELF/VLF modes in the Earth-ionosphere waveguide. The results are significantly different from those obtained with the flat-Earth assumption, especially for the least attenuated modes.
Monte Carlo‐based flood modelling framework for estimating probability weighted flood risk

This study presents a new Monte Carlo-based flood inundation modelling framework for estimating probability weighted flood risk using a computationally efficient graphics processing unit (GPU) two dimensional (2D) hydraulic model. The 2D flood model is programmed in the GPU framework providing a unique ability to run numerous simulations in a short period of time, permitting the integration of 2D hydraulic modelling into Monte Carlo analysis. The framework operates by performing many 2D flood simulations of randomly sampled input parameters to develop a spatially varied flood hazard map. The probabilistic framework is demonstrated using a 1% annual probability flood event and simulating 1000 different flood simulations by randomly selected peak flows of the Swannanoa River in Buncombe County, USA. The results, in general, display benefits of probabilistic flood risk approach compared with a single simulation approach. The latter approach underestimated 28% of flood risk relative to the former. As the number of simulations increased from 1 to 1000, areas identified as low danger and judgment zone increased by 87.4% and 36.8% respectively, whereas the high danger zone increased by 9.3%. In conclusion, the new Monte Carlo flood risk modelling framework has the ability to provide improved accuracy of flood risk and greater insight into the spatial distribution of flood risk.