cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
PENETRATION/PERFORATION OF ALUMINUM, STEEL AND TUNGSTEN PLATES BY CERAMIC RODS

Abstract The axisymmetric penetration/perforation of rigidly clamped circular metallic plates by fast moving AD-85 ceramic cylindrical rods has been studied. The ceramic is modeled as an elastic–plastic material with pressure cut-off and the target material is modeled as linearly strain-hardening elastic–plastic material with a material point failing when the effective plastic strain there attains a prescribed value; failed elements are removed from the analysis. For low impact speeds, the ceramic rod fails causing a shallow crater in the metallic target. However, at impact speeds in the range of 1 to 5 km/s, the partially destroyed ceramic rods perforate through the metallic targets. The effect of material parameters of the metallic plates on the efficiency of penetration has been studied.
Experimental demonstration of the random phase encoding technique for image encryption and security verification

Optical image encryption and security using random phase encoding techniques have been proposed recently. We present optical experimental results for image encryption and security. The results show that for the image encryption, the image can be well encrypted using random phase masks with a limited number of pixels. We also tested the performance of the optical system for security verification in the pres- ence of different types of input noise and distortions such as scratches, fingerprint marks, and bending of the phase mask. The experimental results indicate that for the severity of the noise and the degree of dis- tortion tested here, the system provides good performance in verifying the phase code. © 1996 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.
The Effects of Macroeconomic Shocks in a Basic Equilibrium Framework

The macroeconomic effects of random shocks to output, the terms of trade, and the real interest rate are examined using an intertemporal equilibrium model of a small open, endowment economy. Equilibrium stochastic processes are computed numerically and compared with actual stylized facts. The model rationalizes the Harberger-Laursen-Metzler effect, but cannot produce countercyclical net exports and large real exchange rate fluctuations. The quantitative implications of the model are compared with the implications of the elasticities approach, and their sensitivity to changes in preference parameters and in the persistence of shocks is examined.
Mathematics and Mathematicians at Sapienza University in Rome (XVII–XVIII Century)

This article introduces some data regarding the teaching of mathematics in La Sapienza in the 17th century, with particular reference to the discipline’s role in the statutes, the lecturers, the courses’ programmes, the interest that Popes took in it. Specifically, it will focus on the changes that occured at the end of the 17th century, with regards to the development of the discipline and the improvement of a “scientific culture” in the city of the Pope.
Why shy people use instant messaging: Loneliness and other motives

Existing research suggests shy people may satisfy their affiliation needs through computerized forms of communication such as instant messaging (IM). Fifty-five undergraduates completed an IM use index, the Cheek and Buss (1981) shyness scale and a motives for IM use scale developed for this study. It was found that the strongest motives for IM use were to increase personal contact as opposed to gain social ease or to decrease loneliness. While a direct association between shyness and IM use intensity was not found, shyness was associated with using IM to decrease loneliness in comparison to other motives. It was concluded that shyer people have multiple motives for using IM, but that decreasing loneliness is particularly important for them. Future research could examine how IM and other computerized communications compare to face-to-face interactions between shy and non-shy people.
A technique for lowering risks during contract negotiations

A method for organizing the negotiation process to reduce the risks of the seller has been presented. The resulting equations are used to estimate contract costs for different negotiation parameters. The user can then add to this his/her profit margin, percent buy-in, etc. when necessary. It can be used to quickly estimate a minimum bid for fluctuating contract terms during negotiations. The method is built on regression analysis and two illustrative examples of its use are provided.
Postoperative complications reduce adjuvant chemotherapy use in resectable pancreatic cancer

Objective To assess the impact of postoperative complications on the receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy. Background Randomized trials have demonstrated that adjuvant chemotherapy is associated with improved long-term survival. However, pancreatic surgery is associated with significant morbidity and the degree to which complications limit subsequent treatment options is unknown. Methods Patients from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program and the National Cancer Data Base who underwent pancreatic resection for cancer were linked (2006-2009). The associations between complications and adjuvant chemotherapy use or treatment delay (≥ 70 days from surgery) were assessed using multivariable regression methods. Results From 149 hospitals, 2047 patients underwent resection for stage I-III pancreatic adenocarcinoma of which 23.2% had at least 1 serious complication. Overall adjuvant chemotherapy receipt was 57.7%: 61.8% among patients not experiencing any complication and 43.6% among those who had a serious complication. Serious complications increased the likelihood of not receiving adjuvant therapy over twofold [odds ratio (OR) = 2.20, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.73-2.80]. Specific complications associated with adjuvant chemotherapy omission were reintubation (OR = 7.79, 95% CI: 3.59-16.87), prolonged ventilation (OR = 5.92, 95% CI: 3.23-10.86), pneumonia (OR = 2.83, 95% CI: 1.63-4.90), sepsis/shock (OR = 2.76, 95% CI: 2.02-3.76), organ space/deep surgical site infection (OR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.53-3.13), venous thromboembolism (OR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.08-3.43), and urinary tract infection (OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.02-2.54). Serious complications also doubled the likelihood of delaying adjuvant treatment administration (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.42-3.05). Sensitivity analysis in a younger, healthier patient cohort demonstrated similar associations. Conclusions Postoperative complications are common following pancreatic surgery and are associated with adjuvant chemotherapy omission and treatment delays.
Design and characteristics of a tapered amplifier diode system by seeding with continuous-wave and mode-locked external cavity diode laser

We present a detailed design of a simple, stable, and compact tapered amplifier (TA) diode system. Heat conductivity, strain release, and system alignment are taken into consideration for this design. Convenient access to the three-dimensional adjustments for collimation makes the system easy to align. The optical amplification is discussed as a function of injection of current and operating temperature for both a continuous-wave external cavity diode laser (CW-ECDL) and a mode-locked external cavity diode laser (ML-ECDL). With 5-mW CW-ECDL seeding power, 240 mW is achieved after the TA, 115 mW (48%) of which can be coupled into a single-mode fiber. With 0.75-mW average ML-ECDL seeding power, 80-mW average power, or about 11-W peak power (843-MHz repetition rate and 8-ps pulse width), is achieved after the TA, 39 mW (49%) of which can be coupled into a single-mode fiber. In both cases, the amplified light maintains the optical properties of the seeding light, showing the same mode suppression. The output power spatial mode quality is characterized with a camera and BeamView software. Output power stability is also discussed.
Neural Cell Targets of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 in Human Fetal Organotypic Cultures

Some children infected by HIV-1 demonstrate nervous system disease. Because a significant percentage of these children are believed to be infected during gestation and it is thought that HIV-1 may ...
Testicular Toxicity of Molinate in the Rat: Metabolic Activation via Sulfoxidation☆☆☆

Molinate is a thiocarbamate herbicide widely used in rice culture. Studies conducted for regulatory purposes have indicated that molinate exposure causes male reproductive damage in rats. The present study describes the testicular lesion after administration of single doses of molinate. The hypothesis that a metabolite of molinate is responsible for testicular toxicity was also investigated. Testicular damage was evaluated histopathologically in Sprague–Dawley rats 48 h and 1, 2, and 3 weeks after administration of molinate (100–400 mg/kg ip). No testicular damage was seen at any time point at the 100 mg/kg dose level. Damage was first seen 1 week after 200 mg/kg and 48 h after 400 mg/kg. The lesion was characterized by Sertoli cell vacuolation, failed spermiation, and phagocytosis of spermatids particularly evident at Stages X and XI. With increasing time, damage progressed until disorganization of the seminiferous epithelium was extensive, multinucleated giant cells were numerous, and neither spermatozoa nor late step spermatids were present. At 3 weeks after administration of the two higher-dose levels, germ cells in the seminiferous tubules were almost completely absent. Administration of the sulfoxide metabolite of molinate (200 mg/kg ip) caused testicular damage similar in severity to that seen at the 400 mg/kg dose level for the parent compound, indicating that it was more potent as a testicular toxicant.In vitrometabolism studies using liver and testis microsomes found that the major metabolite in both preparations was molinate sulfoxide. Testis microsomes produced only slightly less sulfoxide when compared with liver microsomes. Molinate was also metabolized via ring hydroxylation to form small amounts of hydroxymolinate. The amount of hydroxymolinate was substantially less in testis microsomes. Overall, these data indicate that sulfoxidation of molinate plays a role in molinate-induced testicular toxicity. Moreover, molinate is metabolized readily by both liver and testis microsomal enzymes, suggesting that the molinate toxic metabolite could be formed in the testis in close proximity to its site of action.
Encoding homophones and synonyms for verbal discrimination and recognition

Forced-choice recognition was less accurate for homophones or synonyms than for unrelated words, suggesting that information about both semantic and phonetic attributes of English words may be encoded. Forced-choice discrimination (when both words had been presented together with the correct word underlined) was less accurate than recognition of unrelated words, but was as accurate for homophones and synonyms as for unrelated words, suggesting that information about either semantic or phonetic attributes may be encoded selectively. These findings are consistent with the view that words may be treated as complexes of differential features.
Why do cancer cells become "addicted" to oncogenic epidermal growth factor receptor?

The author discusses three new studies in PLoS Medicine that shed light on the mechanisms involved in apoptosis triggered by EGFR kinase inhibitors.
Quantum theory of measurement and the polar decomposition of an interaction

The measurement-theoretic content of the polar decomposition of an interaction is analyzed. It is shown that the polar decomposition arises exactly from the strong correlation premeasurement of a discrete physical quantity.
Presoaking donor corneas reduces graft detachment rates in descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty.

Purpose To present a novel method of reducing rates of graft detachment, the most common postoperative complication of Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK). Design Retrospective, interventional case series. Methods Eighty-three consecutive patients undergoing DSEK for endothelial dystrophy were studied. DSEK was performed in 103 eyes by 2 surgeons (J.D.G. and W.J.S.) at one institution before (n = 83) and after (n = 20) presoaking donor grafts in balanced salt solution (BSS) Plus (Alcon, Fort Worth, Texas, USA). No significant change in the frequency of using other techniques was made during this time. Incidents of tissue detachment after surgery were recorded. Results Of 83 consecutive DSEK procedures carried out before presoaking the donor tissue in BSS Plus, detachment occurred in 25 (30%). After presoaking, the detachment rate was reduced significantly to 0 (0%) of 20 ( P = .0019). Conclusions Patients undergoing DSEK experienced a significant decrease in rates of graft detachment after adoption of this new technique. The results suggest that presoaking donor tissue in BSS Plus lowers the detachment rate of DSEK grafts.
Oscillatory fluid flow affects human marrow stromal cell proliferation and differentiation

Mechanical loading is an important regulator of bone formation and bone loss. Decreased osteoblast number and function are important cellular mechanisms by which mechanical disuse leads to decreased bone formation. Decreased osteoblast number may be a result of decreased osteoprogenitor proliferation, differentiation, or both. However, the effects of cellular level physical signals on osteoprogenitors are not well understood. In this study, we examined the effects of loading induced oscillatory fluid flow (OFF), a potent regulator of osteoblastic cell function, on marrow stromal cells (MSCs). MSCs subjected to OFF exhibited increased intracellular Ca2+ mobilization. In addition, MSCs exhibited increased proliferation and increased mRNA levels for osteopontin and osteocalcin genes. Collagen I and core binding factor 1 mRNA levels did not change. MSCs subjected to OFF also exhibited decreased alkaline phosphatase activity. These results suggest that MSCs are mechanosensitive and that Ca2+ may play a role in the signaling pathway.
Free volume as a criterion for grain boundary models

Abstract A framework for the discussion of grain boundary properties is established in terms of discrete elements such as dislocations or boundary coincidence units, more complex sets of interacting elements, or no discernible structure. Examples of models which fall wholly within a single class are discussed but favor is given to dislocations for small misorientations and to structureless grain boundary regions based on random close packing (rcp) and the change of atomic radii with coordination number for large. The free volume of a grain boundary V F (cm 3 /cm 2 ), defined as a special version of the excess volume (cm 3 ) attributable to any crystal defect, is then explicitly calculated for dislocation boundaries and for the rcp structure. We argue that a combination of these two structures yields the minimum possible V F over the entire angular range of misorientation. When various existing grain boundary models are appraised we are then led to conclude that free volume is the best single criterion currently available for evaluation.
The cure of subacute bacterial endarteritis by surgical ligation in a patient with patent ductus arteriosus complicated by the presence of multiple congentital cardiac defects

Abstract A case of subacute bacterial endarteritis with patent ductus arteriosus, patent interventricular septal defect, and anomalous left vena cava, in which cure was effected by surgical ligation of the patent ductus, is reported. Surgical treatment, when otherwise contraindicated by atypical physical signs, should be considered when the infecting organism is resistant to chemotherapy and when a complicating congenital defect, requiring a patent ductus as a compensatory mechanism, is not present.
Effects of milk consumption and deprivation on body fluids of suckling rats.

Abstract Ten-day-old rats were separated from their mothers for 4 hours, allowed to suckle, and then separated immediately after this nursing bout. Plasma protein concentrations started to fall from deprivation levels by the end of the nursing bout, continued to decline for 30 min, and then gradually returned to deprivation levels 3 1 2 hours later. Plasma sodium concentrations showed similar fluctuations after nursing, but these were not as rapid or reliable as those in plasma protein. Urine production increased steadily after suckling and by 4 hours after was highly correlated with milk intake during the nursing bout, indicating a relatively rapid disposal of excess fluids obtained from milk. Plasma volume (as measured by plasma protein or hematocrit) in pups kept at 30° or 35°C decreased by 4.6 or 8.3% within 2 hours following separation from the mother. Pups separated and kept at 35°C showed greater increases over time in plasma protein, urine production and weight loss than those kept at 30°C. The results indicated that body fluids, and particularly plasma volume, are highly labile in suckling rats; intravascular fluid volume decreases in a short time during the mother's absence, is restored quickly by nursing, only to fall again since the impact of milk consumption dissipates rapidly.
Recipes for Plasma Atomic Layer Etching

Summary form only given. The development of robust processes for gate plasma etching to produce desired profiles and sidewall angles is critical to future technological nodes. The gradual decrease in equivalent gate oxide thickness at future technology nodes (les 100 nm node) has necessitated process control at the atomic level. To insure this level of control, it is desirable to use a self-limiting process which is independent of the processing time. In plasma atomic layer etching (PALE), the formation of a monolayer of reactants or passivation is followed by the removal of the layer which also removes a single laver of the underlving material and so self terminates the process. A challenge of utilizing PALE is the high cost of specialized beam equipment and slow processing speed. The feasibility of using conventional plasma equipment for PALE processes was previously computationally demonstrated for Si [in Ar/Cl2 (passivation) followed by Ar (etch)] and SiO2 [in Ar/C4F8 (passivation) followed by Ar (etch)]. The Hybrid Plasma Equipment Model (HPEM) and the Monte Carlo feature profile model (MCFPM) were modified to have pulse periodic capability as required for PALE, and to kinetically resolve ion energy distributions to finely resolve threshold energies. The speed of PALE processes is limited by having to purge the different gas mixtures being employed to perform the individual steps during one cycle which removes a monolayer. Eliminating the purge step can greatly increase the speed of the process. This can be achieved if by using a single gas mixture one can perform both the passivation and etching steps with similar precision and control. In this presentation, results from a computational investigation of etching recipes are discussed. Methods are demonstrated whereby a single gas mixture (that is, no purging steps) can be used for PALE by controlling the shape of the ion energy distribution (IED). This latter control is obtained through the use of non-sinusoidal waveforms in which the IED can be narrowed to discriminate between etching thresholds.
Laboratory studies of equatorially trapped waves using ferrofluid

We introduce a new technique to model spherical geophysical fluid dynamics in the terrestrial laboratory. The local vertical projection of planetary vorticity, f, varies with latitude on a rotating spherical planet and allows an important class of waves in large-scale atmospheric and oceanic flows. These Rossby waves have been extensively studied in the laboratory for middle and polar latitudes. At the equator f changes sign where gravity is perpendicular to the planetary rotation. This geometry has made laboratory studies of geophysical fluid dynamics near the equator very limited. We use ferrofluid and static magnetic fields to generate nearly spherical geopotentials in a rotating laboratory experiment. This system is the laboratory analogue of those large-scale atmospheric and oceanic flows whose horizontal motions are governed by the Laplace tidal equations. As the rotation rate in such a system increases, waves are trapped to latitudes near the equator and the dynamics can be formulated on the equatorial β-plane. This transition from planetary modes to equatorially trapped modes as the rotation rate increases is observed in the experiments. The equatorial β-plane solutions of non-dispersive Kelvin waves propagating eastward and non-dispersive Rossby waves propagating westward at low frequency are observed in the limit of rotation fast compared to gravity wave speed.
Seasonal Migration and Health Care

This article examines health care use and issues among seasonal migrants in an urban setting in the Sunbelt. The study, based on a survey of 230 American and Canadian snowbirds in Phoenix, Arizona, complements previous research on health care use among Canadian snowbirds in Florida. Our results show that health care use among seasonal migrants in Phoenix is substantial, and it varies by citizenship (American vs. Canadian), age, number of winter visits, and length of winter stay. We argue that health care use is symptomatic of social and emotional attachments to the winter residence that develop and deepen over a period of years. Phoenix snowbirds view their lifestyles as healthy, they are adept in adjusting to health decrements, and the majority plan to continue spending time in both their summer and winter residences as long as their health permits
Polymer Composite-Based Vibration and Noise Emission Controls for Hand-Struck Impact Tools

Exposure to high noise levels may be the most common occupational hazard. Recent estimates suggest that as many as 30 million Americans are exposed to noise levels greater than the current safe limits for workplaces. At current durations of exposure, it is expected that 25% of these workers will develop permanent, noise-induced hearing loss. In many of these industrial environments, high levels of vibration also exist that can lead to several injuries and ailments. To address the adverse effects associated with the use of high noise emission impact tools, a study was initiated to develop and evaluate alternate tool designs that reduce the potential for hearing loss and vibration-related injuries. Recent work has focused on integrating advanced engineering polymers (composites) into tool designs for the purpose of eliminating direct metal-to-metal impact. This approach has several significant performance advantages including reduced operator discomfort due to hand-arm mechanical shock, reduced noise, and less danger from flying metal fragments. To quantify sound emission characteristics of these new designs, continuous sound pressure, maximum sound pressure, and maximum sound pressure level were measured using an array of five precision microphones each located 1 meter from the tool. Data was sampled at 40 kHz while test subjects operate both pneumatic tools and hand-struck tools. Frequency spectra of the sound pressure signals were examined for all tool treatments, and indicate that the addition of a polymer insert between metal impact components significantly reduces noise emission, especially at higher frequencies. Similar reductions were observed in vibration transmission in the hand and arm. As a result, tools that integrate polymer-based components may be operated for longer daily exposure times without inducing hearing loss or vibration-related injuries. Data from this study may also help auditory and ergonomic specialists in understanding impulse noise characteristics and exposure.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Survival and complications of cuffed catheters in children on chronic hemodialysis.

Central venous catheters are being increasingly used as hemodialysis vascular access. We evaluated catheter survival, outcome predictors, and complications in a total of 36 catheters used in 13 children and young adults undergoing chronic maintenance hemodialysis through catheter for a duration of 10.4±5.6 months. Reasons for catheter failure were: thrombosis 12 of 36 (33%), infection 6 of 36 (17%), and extrusion 2 of 36 (5.4%). Catheters were lost to infection and thrombosis at 1.1 and 2.2 episodes per 1,000 catheter days, respectively. Symptomatic infections, Gram-negative and polymicrobial sepsis increased the risk of catheter failure. Most of the thrombotic episodes occurred in patients with inherent thrombotic tendency. The survival of the 36 catheters was 62% at 1 year. The survival of 13 randomly chosen catheters, 1 from each patient, was 85% at 1 year. The time from insertion to first complication correlated significantly with the outcome (P<0.03). We conclude that central venous catheters are still associated with a high rate of failure and may be a regular access choice only in a selected patient population with no inherent thrombotic tendency and no other option available for long-term hemodialysis.
Assessment of an Adjusted vs. Fixed Pass Line for Student Performance in a Medical School Curriculum

Starting in Fall 2011, USF Morsani College of Medicine has implemented a new pass-fail grading system using an adjusted pass line for the assignment of grades in Year 1 basic science courses, which incorporates the class mean and distribution of exam grades (‘mean minus two standard deviations’ pass line). This replaces the prior fixed pass line of 70% correct answers. In recent reports, improved psychological well-being (reduced stress and anxiety) and decreased competitiveness, combined with an environment that fosters cooperative learning were discussed as major factors and principal attractions in moving toward a simple pass-fail grading system. 1,2 Here, we report on resultant changes in class performance during the academic year 2011-2012.
Gill lesions and death of bluegill in an acid mine drainage mixing zone

The toxicity of an acid mine drainage (AMD) mixing zone was investigated by placing bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) at the confluence of a stream contaminated by AMD and a stream having neutral pH. A mixing channel receiving water from both streams was assembled in the field, during July and October 1996, to determine the toxicity of freshly mixed and aged water (2.9-7.5 min). The AMD stream had elevated concentrations of Al and Fe, which precipitated upon mixing, and of Mn, which did not precipitate in the mixing zone. Fish exposed to freshly mixed water had higher mortality than fish exposed to water after aging. Precipitating Al, but not Fe, accumulated on the gills of bluegill, and accumulation was more rapid early during the mixing process than after aging. Fish exposed for 3.5 h to freshly mixed water had hypertrophy and hyperplasia of gill filament and lamellar epithelial cells. Similar lesions were observed after 6.0 h in fish exposed to water aged after mixing. Results demonstrated that Al was the predominant metal accumulating on the gills of fish in this AMD mixing zone, and that mixing zones can be more toxic than AMD streams in equilibrium.
On the total operating costs up to default in a renewal risk model

Abstract The paper proposes a new approach to study a general class of ruin-related quantities in the context of a renewal risk model. While the classical approaches in Sparre Andersen models have their own merits, the approach presented in this paper has its advantages from the following perspectives. (1) The underlying surplus process has the flexibility to reflect a broad range of scenarios for surplus growth including dividend policies and interest returns. (2) The solution method provides a general framework to unify a great variety of existing ruin-related quantities such as Gerber–Shiu functions and the expected present value of dividends paid up to ruin, and facilitates derivations of new ruin-related quantities such as the expected present value of total claim costs up to ruin, etc. In the end, many specific examples are explored to demonstrate its application in renewal risk models.
Precipitation characteristics of the Eurasian Arctic drainage system

This study examines characteristics of precipitation over the major watersheds of the Eurasian Arctic drainage system over the period 1960–92. In addition to the Ob, Yenisey and Lena (the three largest drainage systems), we examine the combined Kolyma–Indigirka in eastern Eurasia. Each basin exhibits approximately symmetric mean annual cycles of monthly total precipitation and daily event size, with winter minima and July maxima. These are strikingly similar to the annual cycles of total column water vapour (precipitable water), which fundamentally reflects the control on saturation vapour pressure by temperature. Effective precipitation mechanisms exist in all seasons. However, because of the long distance from strong moisture sources (continentality), precipitation tends to follow the seasonality in column water vapour. An effective contrast is presented for the Iceland sector. Here, the annual cycle of precipitation is tied not to the seasonality in column water vapour, but to the stronger precipitation-generating mechanisms in winter. Hence, the annual cycles of precipitation and column water vapour in this region oppose each other. Mean winter precipitation over the Eurasian watersheds is primarily driven by a modest convergence of water vapour. Whereas precipitation peaks in summer, the mean flux convergence exhibits a general minimum (negative in the Ob). Summer precipitation is hence primarily associated with surface evaporation. A strong role of convection is supported from consideration of static stability, the fairly weak spatial organization of precipitation totals and results from prior studies. On daily time scales, the largest basin-averaged precipitation events, for both summer and winter, are allied with synoptic-scale forcing. This is seen in relationships with cyclone frequency, and patterns of 500 hPa height, vertical motion and the 700 hPa vapour flux. The relative frequency of four 500 hPa synoptic types captures the basic time series structures of precipitation. Copyright © 2003 Royal Meteorological Society
III.—KNOWLEDGE AND BELIEF

"We must recognize that -when we know something we either do, or by reflecting, can know that our condition is one of knowing that thing, while when we believe something, we either do or can know that our condition is one of believing and not of knowing: so that we cannot mistake belief for knowledge or vice versa." 1 This remark is worthy of investigation. Can I discover in myself whether I know something or merely believe it ? Let us begin by studying the ordinary usage of " know " and "believe ". Suppose, for example, that several of us intend to go for a walk and that you propose that we walk in Cascadilla gorge. I protest that I should like to walk beside a flowing stream and that at this season the gorge is probably dry. Consider the following cases: (1) You say " I believe that it won't be dry although I have no particular reason for thinking so". If we went to the gorge and found a flowing stream we shlould not say that you knew that there would be water but that you thought so and were right. (2) You say " I believe that it won't be dry because it rained only three days ago and usually water flows in the gorge for at least that long after a rain". If we found water we should be inclined to say that you knew that there would be water. It would be quite natural for you to say " I knew that it wouldn't be dry "; and we should tolerate your remark. This case differs from the previous one in that here you had a reason. (3) You say " I kmow that it won't be dry " and give the same reason as in (2). If we found water we should have very little hesitation in saying that you knew. Not only had you a reason, but you said " I know " instead of " 1 believe ". It may seem to us now that the latter shlould not make a diflerence-but it does. (4) You say " I know that it won't be dry " and give a stronger reason, e.g. " I saw a lot of water flowing in the gorge when I passed it this morning ". If we went and found water, there would be no hesitation at all in saying that you knew. If, for example, we later met someone who said "Weren't you surprised to see water in the gorge this afternoon?" you would reply " No,
Methyl nomilinate from citrus can modulate cell cycle regulators to induce cytotoxicity in human colon cancer (SW480) cells in vitro

Limonoids are triterpenoids found in citrus and possess cancer preventive properties in in vitro and in vivo assays. Although several mechanisms for the chemopreventive properties of limonoids have been postulated, the specific mechanisms involved in the anti-cancer effects have not been explored. In the present study, limonoids, including methyl nomilinate, isoobacunoic acid, isolimonexic acid (ILNA), and limonexic acid (LNA), were purified, identified by LC-MS and NMR spectral data and evaluated for their biological effects on SW480 human colon adenocarcinoma cells. Methyl nomilinate was the most potent inhibitor of cell metabolic activity in MTT and EdU incorporation assays. These limonoids did not affect apoptotic markers such as caspase-3 and PARP, but methyl nomilinate treatment resulted in significant induction of G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, methyl nomilinate suppressed CDK4/6 and cyclin D3 and the expression of CDK inhibitors. Taken together, the results suggest inhibition of cell proliferation by methyl nomilinate occurs due to G1 cell cycle arrest, indicating that methyl nomilinate has potential as a chemopreventive agent.
Reinforcement learning in the brain

Abstract A wealth of research focuses on the decision-making processes that animals and humans employ when selecting actions in the face of reward and punishment. Initially such work stemmed from psychological investigations of conditioned behavior, and explanations of these in terms of computational models. Increasingly, analysis at the computational level has drawn on ideas from reinforcement learning , which provide a normative framework within which decision-making can be analyzed. More recently, the fruits of these extensive lines of research have made contact with investigations into the neural basis of decision making. Converging evidence now links reinforcement learning to specific neural substrates, assigning them precise computational roles. Specifically, electrophysiological recordings in behaving animals and functional imaging of human decision-making have revealed in the brain the existence of a key reinforcement learning signal, the temporal difference reward prediction error. Here, we first introduce the formal reinforcement learning framework. We then review the multiple lines of evidence linking reinforcement learning to the function of dopaminergic neurons in the mammalian midbrain and to more recent data from human imaging experiments. We further extend the discussion to aspects of learning not associated with phasic dopamine signals, such as learning of goal-directed responding that may not be dopamine-dependent, and learning about the vigor (or rate) with which actions should be performed that has been linked to tonic aspects of dopaminergic signaling. We end with a brief discussion of some of the limitations of the reinforcement learning framework, highlighting questions for future research.
Possible unification of the Feynman and ILF critical velocity theories

Abstract A model is proposed to explain superfluid helium decay rates and critical velocities in channels over the entire range 0 ⩽ T ⪅ T λ . Included is a prediction, for the first time, of the recently observed behavior that the same decay rate can occur for different initial velocities.
Analysis of a radial crack in a circular ring segment

Abstract The problem considered is a segment of a circular ring with a radial crack emanating frorn the surface with the smaller radius. Pure bending and three-point loading are chosen for solution. The problem is solved usiag the ‘modified mapping-collocation’ technique and partitioning. Numerical data is presented for varying crack lengths and thicknesses.
Note: Strong edge-coloring of graphs with maximum degree 4 using 22 colors

In 1985, Erdos and Nesetril conjectured that the strong edge-coloring number of a graph is bounded above by 54@D^2 when @D is even and 14(5@D^2-2@D+1) when @D is odd. They gave a simple construction which requires this many colors. The conjecture has been verified for @D=<3. For @D=4, the conjectured bound is 20. Previously, the best known upper bound was 23 due to Horak. In this paper we give an algorithm that uses at most 22 colors.
Restricted Diffusion of Dopamine in the Rat Dorsal Striatum

Recent evidence has shown that the dorsal striatum of the rat is arranged as a patchwork of domains that exhibit distinct dopamine kinetics and concentrations. This raises the pressing question of how these distinct domains are maintained, especially if dopamine is able to diffuse through the extracellular space. Diffusion between the domains would eliminate the concentration differences and, thereby, the domains themselves. The present study is a closer examination of dopamine’s ability to diffuse in the extracellular space. We used voltammetry to record dopamine overflow in dorsal striatum while stimulating the medial forebrain bundle over a range of stimulus currents and frequencies. We also examined the effects of drugs that modulated the dopamine release (raclopride and quinpirole) and uptake (nomifensine). Examining the details of the temporal features of the evoked profiles reveals no clear evidence for long-distance diffusion of dopamine between fast and slow domains, even though uptake inhibition...
Significance of regional source contributions to urban PM-10 concentrations.

Based on data collected in St. Louis, Philadelphia and other eastern U.S. cities, we conclude that a significant fraction of the PM-10 concentration is "background." In these urban areas the background fraction ranges from 35 to 80 percent of the daily, monthly or annual concentration. The bulk of the background appears to be of regional origin. The average chemical makeup of eastern U.S. PM-10 is sulfate as SO4, 21-34 percent; crustal material, 14-39 percent; "unknown" (carbonaceous matter, ammonium, nitrate and water), 36-51 percent, all of which is difficult to apportion to specific sources. Dispersion modeling using a local source inventory can account only for a small portion of the total PM-10 mass. Emission roll-back of local sources may have a limited effect on reducing total concentrations of PM-10.
Mathematical Relationship Between Surface Emission and Diffusion Coefficients

ABSTRACT This naver analvzes the surface emission coefficient corresponding to anv diffusion coefficient expressed as an exponential function of the concentration diffusing substance in capillary porous solids. Theoretical equations for surface emission coefficient for both sorption and desorption are presented. Procedures to derive the diffusion coefficient and to verify the corresponding surface emission coefficient are made using experimental sorption data of aspen (Populur sp.) wood. It is of interest to note that the theoretical models for diffusion and surface emission coefficients can be established and/or evaluated using the same set of experimental dara.
The effects of stimulus pulse rise-decay time and duration on lingual vibrotactile thresholds

The present study consisted of two experimental phases. In Experiment 1, the effects on lingual vibrotactile threshold of four different stimulus pulse rise-decay times were investigated for 10 normal adult subjects. The results showed no statistically significant differences between thresholds obtained with the use of the four rise-decay times. In Experiment 2, the effects on lingual vibrotactile threshold of four different stimulus pulse durations were investigated for 10 normal adult subjects. A statistically significant difference was noted between thresholds obtained with stimulus pulse durations of land 50 msec.
Mirror mirror: crowdsourcing better portraits

We describe a method for providing feedback on portrait expressions, and for selecting the most attractive expressions from large video/photo collections. We capture a video of a subject's face while they are engaged in a task designed to elicit a range of positive emotions. We then use crowdsourcing to score the captured expressions for their attractiveness. We use these scores to train a model that can automatically predict attractiveness of different expressions of a given person. We also train a cross-subject model that evaluates portrait attractiveness of novel subjects and show how it can be used to automatically mine attractive photos from personal photo collections. Furthermore, we show how, with a little bit ($5-worth) of extra crowdsourcing, we can substantially improve the cross-subject model by "fine-tuning" it to a new individual using active learning. Finally, we demonstrate a training app that helps people learn how to mimic their best expressions.
Argon-like three-electron trajectories in intense-field double and triple ionization

We present the double- and triple-ionization momentum distributions obtained from a 3-e planar classical calculation in a laser pulse with peak intensity of 0.8 PW/cm(2). The calculated distributions agree surprisingly well with the experimental Ar(2+) and Ar(3+) distributions at the same laser intensity. We demonstrate four recollision pathways that contribute significantly to the production of the doubly and triply charged ions. In particular, the intense-field double ionization pathways are discussed beyond the two-active-electron picture.
LANSCE 201 MHZ and 805 MHZ RF System experience

The LANSCE RF system consists of four RF stations at 201 MHz and forty-four klystrons at 805 MHz. In the LANSCE accelerator, the beam source is injected into the RF system at 0.75 MeV. The beam is then accelerated to 100 MeV in four drift tube linac (DTL) tanks, driven at 201.25 MHz. Each 201 MHz RF system consists of a train of amplifiers, including a solid state amplifier, a tetrode, and a triode. After the DTL, the beam is accelerated from 100 MeV to 800 MeV in the forty-four coupled cavity linac (CCL) tanks at 805 MHz. The machine operates with a normal RF pulse width of 835 microseconds at a repetition rate up to 120 Hz, and sometimes operates with a pulse width up to 1.2 milliseconds at 1 Hz. This RF system has been operating for about 37 years. This paper summarizes the recent operational experience. The reliability of the 805 MHz and 201 MHz RF systems is discussed, and a summary the lifetime data of the 805 MHz klystrons and 201 MHz triodes is presented.
The Development of Austrian Economics: Revisiting the Neoclassical Divide ∗

Recent developments in Austrian-market-process economics are discussed, and, despite the continuing difficulties of communicating with mainstream economics, some causes for optimism are discerned. Looking to a useful future for Austrian economics will require that further empirical work in applying its insights be done. The question of placing the burden of proof in policy discussions is examined.
Effect of matrix bidispersity on the morphology of polymer‐grafted nanoparticle‐filled polymer nanocomposites

We present a simulation study showing the effect of bidispersity in matrix homopolymer length on the wetting/dewetting of homopolymer-grafted nanoparticles and the morphology of polymer nanocomposites where the graft and matrix polymer chemistries are identical. In a bidisperse matrix with equal number of short and long chains and average matrix length greater than the monodisperse graft length, the densely grafted polymer layer is preferentially wet by the short chains and relatively dewet by the long chains. This is driven by a larger gain in entropy of mixing between graft and matrix for short matrix chains than long matrix chains. Despite the preferential wetting of the short and dewetting of long chains, matrix length bidispersity does not significantly change the overall wetting of the grafted layer. Unlike graft length bidispersity that significantly improves particle dispersion, matrix length bidispersity slightly increases particle aggregation in the polymer matrix. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2014, 52, 1661–1668
The Solar Terrestrial Observatory

The larger system of the earth environment is controlled externally by electromagnetic and particle energy from the sun. Recent studies have shown that the sun is a variable star with changes in its radiation which produce significant effects in the earth's climate and weather. The study of the solar-terrestrial system requires simultaneous, long-duration observations of the different elements or 'links' in the solar-terrestrial chain. Many investigations must be conducted in space from a vantage point above the earth's atmosphere where all of the sun's emissions can be observed free from atmospheric distortion, where the magnetospheric particles and fields can be measured directly, and where the atmosphere can be observed on a global scale. The extension of the Shuttle on-orbit capability in connection with the development of the power module will offer an important near-term step in an evolutionary process leading toward a permanent manned Solar Terrestrial Observatory capability in low-earth orbit. Attention is given to the required solar-terrestrial measurements, the operation of the Solar Terrestrial Observatory, and an evolutionary approach to the Solar Terrestrial Observatory.
Separable Kvβ Subunit Domains Alter Expression and Gating of Potassium Channels

Abstract Kvβ subunits have been shown to affect kinetic properties of voltage-gated K+ channel Kv1α subunits and increase the number of cell surface dendrotoxin-binding sites when coexpressed with Kv1.2. Here, we show that Kvβ1.2 alters both current expression and gating of Kvα1 channels and that each effect is mediated by a distinct Kvβ1.2 domain. The Kvβ1.2 N terminus or Kvα1-blocking domain introduced steady state current block, an apparent negative shift in steady state activation, and a slowing of deactivation along with a dramatic reduction in single channel open probability. N-terminal deletions of Kvβ1.2 no longer altered channel kinetics but promoted dramatic increases in Kv1.2 current. The conserved Kvβ1 C terminus or Kvα1 expression domain alone was sufficient to increase the number of functional channels. The same effect was observed with the normally noninactivating subunit, Kvβ2. By contrast, Kv1.5 currents were reduced when coexpressed with either the Kvβ1 C terminus or Kvβ2, indicating that the Kvα1 expression domain has Kvα1 isoform-specific effects. Our results demonstrate that Kvβ subunits consist of two domains that are separable on the basis of both primary structure and functional modulation of voltage-gated K+ channels.
Underevaluation of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with nonaccidental falls.

Background: The incidence of adult patients with falls seeking medical assistance in the Salt Lake City area, Utah, is 28,000 per million adult inhabitants. Objective: We sought to evaluate the pre...
A Case Study in Integrating Multiple E-commerce Standards via Semantic Web Technology

Internet business-to-business transactions present great challenges in merging information from different sources. In this paper we describe a project to integrate four representative commercial classification systems with the Federal Cataloging System (FCS). The FCS is used by the US Defense Logistics Agency to name, describe and classify all items under inventory control by the DoD. Our approach uses the ECCMA Open Technical Dictionary (eOTD) as a common vocabulary to accommodate all different classifications. We create a semantic bridging ontology between each classification and the eOTD to describe their logical relationships in OWL DL. The essential idea is that since each classification has formal definitions in a common vocabulary, we can use subsumption to automatically integrate them, thus mitigating the need for pairwise mappings. Furthermore our system provides an interactive interface to let users choose and browse the results and more importantly it can translate catalogs that commit to these classifications using compiled mapping results.