cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Subjective contours and apparent depth.

Schumann (1904) investigated the physical parameters which affect the perception of contour. He reported that for a contour to be perceived the prerequisite was some relatively abrupt local change in brightness or color. In the course of these investigations, however, he noted that under certain favorable conditions contours could be made to appear in areas of the visual field where the physical stimulation was homogenous. As evidence of this, he presented the pattern shown in Figure 1. In the center of this pattern most observers see a white square, bounded by intermittent black and white on either side. Since the contours delineating this square are not actually present in the stimulation, these phenomena have been called "subjective contours" (Osgood, 1951). The subjective contours in the Schumann figure are somewhat unstable. Not all observers see these contour lines, and when they are carefully fixated, they tend to disappear. Their appearance is generally enhanced when the configuration is of small visual angle. All of these factors led Schumann to conclude that subjective contours were the result of some organizational
Production of Pions and Light Fragments at Large Angles in High-Energy Nuclear Collisions

Inclusive cross sections for production of ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$, ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$, $p$, $d$, $^{3}\mathrm{H}$, $^{3}\mathrm{He}$, and $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ have been measured at laboratory angles from 10\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} to 145\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} in nuclear collisions of Ne + Naf, Ne + Cu, and Ne + Pb at 400 MeV/nucleon, C + C, C + Pb, Ne + NaF, Ne + Cu, Ne + Pb, Ar + KCl, and Ar + Pb at 800 MeV/nucleon, and Ne + NaF and Ne + Pb at 2.1 GeV/nucleon. The production of light fragments in proton induced collisions at beam energies of 800 MeV and 2.1 GeV has also been measured in order to allow us to compare these processes. For equal-mass nuclear collisions the total integrated yields of nuclear charges are well explained by a simple participant-spectator model. For 800 MeV/nucleon beams the energy spectra of protons at c.m. 90\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} are characterized by a "shoulder-arm" type of spectrum shape with an exponential falloff at high energies, whereas those of pions are of a simple exponential type. The inverse of the exponential slope, ${E}_{0}$, for protons is systematically larger than that for pions. This value of ${E}_{0}$ is larger for heavier-mass projectiles and targets. It also increases monotonically with the beam energy. The angular anisotropy of protons is larger than that of pions. The yield ratio of ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ to total nuclear charge goes up with the beam energy, whereas the yields of composite fragments decrease. The ratio of low-energy ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ to ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$, as well as that of $^{3}\mathrm{H}$ to $^{3}\mathrm{He}$, is larger than the neutron to proton ratio of the system. The spectrum shape of the composite fragments with mass number $A$ is explained very well by the $A\mathrm{th}$ power of the observed proton spectra. The sizes of the interaction region are evaluated from the observed coalescence coefficients. The radius obtained is typically 3-4 fm. The yield ratio of composite fragments to protons strongly depends on the projectile and target masses and the beam energy, but not on the emission angle of the fragments. These results are compared with currently available theoretical models.NUCLEAR REACTIONS Ne + NaF, Ne + Cu, Ne + Pb, $\frac{E}{A}=400$ MeV/nucleon; C + C, C + Pb, Ne + NaF, Ne + Cu, Ne + Pb, Ar + KCl, Ar + Pb, $\frac{E}{A}=800$ MeV/nucleon; Ne + NaF, Ne + Pb, $\frac{E}{A}=2100$ MeV/nucleon; $p$ + C, $p$+ NaF, $p$ + KCl, $p$ + Cu, $p$ + Pb, $E=800$ MeV; $p$ + C, $p$ + NaF, $p$ + KCl, $p$ + Cu, $p$ + Pb, $E=2100$ MeV; measured $\ensuremath{\sigma}(p,\ensuremath{\theta})$ for ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$, ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$, $p$, $d$, $^{3}\mathrm{H}$, $^{3}\mathrm{He}$, and $^{4}\mathrm{He}$.
Physics-based large-signal heterojunction bipolar transistor model for circuit simulation

A comprehensive single heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) model suited for circuit simulation is presented. The model is developed in the Gummel-Poon homojunction bipolar transistor model tradition, but adds important heterostructure device physics as well as physical properties of 3 or 4 compound materials such as AlGaAs and GaAs. In contrast to the existing HBT models, which use the Gummel-Poon model and fit HBT experimental data by optimising a large pool of parameters extracted from HBT measurements, the present physics-based model requires only the knowledge of the device make-up (such as the doping concentration and layer thickness) and the material parameters (such as the energy bandgap and electron affinity). Comparisons between the model and measured dependencies for AlGaAs/GaAs/GaAs HBTs on important device specifications such as the DC current/voltage characteristics, DC current gain, and cutoff frequency are included.
Protective effects of a specific platelet activating factor (PAF) antagonist, WEB 2086, in traumatic shock.

We have investigated the role of platelet activating factor (PAF) in the pathogenesis of a murine model of traumatic shock using WEB 2086, a specific antagonist of PAF. WEB 2086 (0.5 mg/kg) significantly reversed the decrease in mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) induced by PAF (0.3 μg/kg) in anesthetized rats. Anesthetized rats were subjected to Noble-Collip drum trauma. Traumatized rats treated with WEB 2086 (0.5 mg/kg bolus followed by infusion at 0.5 mg/kg/hr) maintained a higher MABP than those receiving only the vehicle (0.9% NaCI). Improvement in MABP paralleled a significant increase in overall survival time (p<0.01) in rats receiving WEB 2086 (0.5 mg/kg). WEB 2086 also significantly attenuated the plasma accumulation of the lysosomal hydrolase, cathepsin D and of free amino-nitrogen compounds, compared to shocked rats receiving only the vehicle. Furthermore, the production of the cardiotoxic peptide, myocardial depressant factor (MDF) was also blunted by WEB 2086. These results suggest that PAF may be an important mediator in the pathogenesis of traumatic shock in rats. Furthermore, PAF receptor antagonists may be useful as therapeutic agents when given early in the course of ischemic and shock states.
Phenotypic and functional assessments of immune status in the rat spleen following acute heroin treatment.

Abstract Heroin use is associated with an increased incidence of several types of infections, including HIV. Yet few studies have assessed whether heroin produces pharmacological alterations of immune status that might contribute to the increased rate of infections amongst heroin users. The present study investigated whether a single administration of heroin to rats produces dose-dependent alterations in functional measures of immune status and in the distribution of leukocyte subsets in the spleen. The results showed that heroin produces a dose-dependent, naltrexone-reversible suppression of the concanavalin A-stimulated proliferation of T cells, lipopolysaccharide-stimulated proliferation of B cells, production of interferon-γ and cytotoxicity of natural killer (NK) cells in the spleen. Heroin's suppressive effect on NK cell activity results in part from a heroin-induced decrease in the relative number of NKR-P1A hi CD3 − NK cells in the spleen. Heroin also decreases the percent of a splenic granulocyte subset, the CD11b/c + HIS48 hi cells, whose function currently is unknown. In contrast, heroin does not alter relative numbers of CD4 + CD3 + T cells, CD8 + CD3 + T cells, CD45 + B cells, NKR-P1A lo CD3 + T cells, CD11b/c + ED1 + (or CD11b/c + HIS48 − ) monocytes/macrophages or CD11b/c + ED1 − (or CD11b/c + HIS48 + ) total granulocytes in the spleen. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that heroin produces pharmacological effects on functional and phenotypic measures of immune status.
Wild Cats of The World

M. Sunquist, F. Sunquist. 2002. Wild Cats of the World. University of Chicago Press, Chicago and London. 452 pp. ISBN 0-226-77999-8 (hardbound) $45.00. Sunquist and Sunquist have produced an excellent “encyclopedia” for Felidae, useful to both scientists and general cat lovers of the world. The first 2 chapters describe felid morphology, senses, social systems, and taxonomy. These short chapters have an interesting mix of physiological information (such as how the tapetum increases light-gathering ability 6-fold and causes eye shine) and anecdotal tidbits (one of which dispels the common belief that cheetahs, servals, and flat-headed cats have nonretractable claws). Although the taxonomy section is not a genetic treatise on the state of the cat family, it does give recent phylogenetic relationships without getting wrapped up in serious genetic debate. The heart of this book consists of 36 species accounts of compiled information from published scientific papers, theses and dissertations, unpublished reports, and personal communications to summarize current knowledge of the world's cats. Each account is divided into sections that, data willing, include a range map, general information, description, distribution, ecology and behavior (including habitat, feeding, social organization, reproduction and development), status in the wild, status in captivity, and conservation efforts; these are followed by one or more tables on measurements, diet composition, …
Europe 1992: what the future may hold

Executive Overview The European Community 1992 (EC 1992) is the symbolic goal for the integration of the 12-member nations: Belgium, Denmark, France, West Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Some 300 legislative actions are designed to remove trade barriers and to create a “single market.” So far, only some of the measures have been enacted. The elimination of the trade restrictions will provide opportunities for companies, but will also pose threats. Indeed, some see the new Europe as a fortress to prevent foreign firms from becoming threatening competitors. The effects of EC 1992 will be different for various industries and countries. Perceptive managers need to understand these changes and develop strategies that take advantage of the opportunities and to avoid the threats posed by the new regulations. In general, U.S. firms had only mixed success in exporting goods, while wholly owned subsidiaries or branches set up my multinational co...
The role of serum and tissue pharmacology studies in the design and interpretation of chemoprevention trials

The design and interpretation of chemoprevention trials are challenging tasks. Innovative methodological approaches to these investigations are in initial stages of development. Important pharmacologic issues should be addressed as early as possible in these trials to facilitate the optimal design of large, Phase III, randomized trials. These include determining the optimal dose of the compound and the toxicity profile. Other key areas involve the use of serum concentrations to monitor subject compliance, the evaluation of concentration of the chemopreventive agent in the target tissue, adequate assessment of the drug delivery systems, and the evaluation of the relationship between the dose administered and the serum or tissue concentrations achieved. Whenever possible the investigation of the relationship between serum or tissue concentrations of a chemopreventive agent vs its biologic activity should be determined. Specific examples involving the retinoids and carotenoids are presented.
A soy flour based thermoset resin without the use of any external crosslinker

In the current research a novel water based reaction scheme was developed to crosslink the protein from soy flour (SF) without using any external crosslinker. Soy flour, which contains about 55% protein and 32% carbohydrate and is the least expensive commercially available soy protein variety, was used for this research. Sugars and protein from SF were separated using a simple lab based filtration technique. The sugars were then oxidized using H2O2, a benign oxidizing agent, to obtain aldehyde and carboxyl groups. The oxidized sugars containing these groups were then used to crosslink the reactive groups present in the protein separated from SF, mainly utilizing Maillard type chemistry. The resulting crosslinked (thermosetting) soy protein resin had enhanced mechanical and thermal properties and reduced moisture absorption. When reinforced with strong microfibrillated cellulose they can produce fully sustainable and biodegradable green composites. The novel scheme developed here may be extended to prepare biobased plastics with enhanced properties by crosslinking natural flours with similar composition (soluble sugars and protein).
Theory of the electrodynamic tether

Abstract The motion of the long conducting wire of a tethered satellite across the geomagnetic field creates an emf of about 0.1–0.2 V/m along the length of the tether. This emf can be utilized to excite wave modes in the ionosphere ranging in frequency from the magnetohydrodynamic regime to the upper hybrid frequency. The emitted spectrum depends principally upon the size (in the direction perpendicular to the magnetic field) of the moving source. The amplitude of radiated waves having a frequency less than the ion cyclotron frequency has been calculated. The shear Alfven wave is always excited and forms an “Alfven-wing” structure whose amplitude diminishes as the length of the tether increases. In the near-field zone, the emitted waves propagate along magnetic field lines as packets but disperse into individual Fourier components as the far field is reached. However, as the distance to the far-field zone is at least 106 kilometers for typical tether configurations, the shear Alfven wave will be reflected by the earth's ionosphere with accompanying coupling to the compressional Alfven mode before the far field is reached.
DBMS course: web based database administration tool and class projects

In this paper, we discuss a software tool we have developed for use in undergraduate DBMS courses, that provides: (i) a web-enabled database set up and administration facility for faculty use, and (ii) web-based database projects that may be assigned to students.We discuss the motivation for our work and the objectives underlying the design of the tool. The significance of our work is two-fold. First, it should help the instructor in the set up, management, and monitoring of student database accounts. Second, it provides the students with a feel for the organization and use of contemporary web-enabled database applications.
Total mercury loadings in sediment from gold mining and conservation areas in Guyana

The Low Carbon Development Strategy proposed in June 2009 by the government of Guyana in response to the Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries program has triggered evaluation of forest-related activities, thereby acting as a catalyst for improvements in Guyana’s small- to medium-scale gold mining industry. This has also shed light on areas committed to conservation, something that has also been handled by Non Governmental Organizations. This paper compares water quality and mercury concentrations in sediment from four main areas in Guyana, two that are heavily mined for gold using mercury amalgamation methods (Arakaka and Mahdia) and two that are considered conservation areas (Iwokrama and Konashen). Fifty-three sediment and soil mercury loadings ranged from 29 to 1,200 ng/g and averaged 215 ± 187 ng/g for all sites with similar averages in conservation and mining areas. Sediment loadings are within the range seen in French Guiana and Suriname, but conservation area samples had higher loadings than the corresponding uncontaminated baselines. Type of ore and location in the mining process seemed to influence mercury loadings. Mercury sediment loadings were slightly positively correlated with pH (correlation coefficient = 0.2; p value < 0.001) whereas no significant correlations were found with dissolved oxygen or turbidity.
Root number determination in maxillary first premolars for modern human populations

It is suggested that multiple root number of the maxillary first premolar be defined on the basis of lingual and buccal-root bifurcation greater than one-fourth to one-third (25%--33%) the buccal-root length. This meets pragmatic considerations and would enhance comparability of between-observer findings for an apparently independent trait of potential importance for population characterization, forensic identification, and microevolutionary analysis.
The p, V, T behavior of dense fluids IV. The p, V, T behavior of liquid xenon

Abstract The p, V, T behavior of liquid xenon has been measured in a temperature range from 175 up to 240 K and at pressures from the vapor pressure up to about 290 atm.
Jealousy evocation, partner reassurance, and relationship stability: An exploration of the potential benefits of jealousy

Abstract Three studies examined possible effects of jealousy evocation and jealous expression in romantic relationships. In Study 1, we used an indirect method to examine subjects' motivations for evoking jealousy in their romantic partners. Students' attributions for ambiguous interactions suggest that jealousy evocation is goal specific and that it is primarily used for mate retention. A majority of Study 1 participants also reported that they had previously attempted to evoke jealousy in a romantic partner to accomplish relationship goals. In Study 2, we examined the expected effect of jealousy evocation, from the perspective of the jealous partner. Here, results suggest that jealousy evocation is unlikely to produce immediate relationship benefits; in fact, it seems more likely to provoke fighting between romantic partners. Finally, in Study 3, we examined the longitudinal association of jealousy with relationship stability. Although there was a positive lagged correlation between participants' partners' jealousy and relationship stability, this association was not significant when participants' prior relationship commitment was controlled. This suggests that while jealousy itself is not causally related to relationship stability, a person's reactions to their jealous partner may be.
Synthesis and Characterization of an Electroluminescent Polyester Containing the Ru(II) Complex

A new electroluminescent polyester based on an electrochemically stable polypyridylruthenium(II) complex was prepared by the step-growth polymerization method. The versatility of changing its solubility by changing counteranions makes it possible to prepare thin-film devices by either spin-coating or the self-assembly technique. Single-layer LEDs fabricated from this polymer by the spin-coating method showed bright orange-red emission with a maximum luminance level of 300 cd/m2. Self-assembled multilayers of this material exhibit external quantum efficiencies close to 1%.
Synthesis of 14C‐labeled halogen substituted indole‐3‐acetic acids

A general method for microscale synthesis of 14C-labeled indole-3-acetic acids with halogen substitutions in the benzene ring is described. The method utilizes halogen substituted phenylhydrazines reacted with [14C]-2-oxoglutarate to generate the halogenated indole-3-acetic acid. 3-Chlorophenyl-hydrazine yielded a mixture of the 4 and 6 chloro compounds that was resolved by C18-reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography.
Guest Editorial: IEEE AWPL Special Cluster on Wireless Power and Data Telemetry for Medical Applications

The 19 papers in this special cluster focus on wireless power and data telemetry for medical applications. Twelve are focused on implantable systems, while the remaining 7 are primarily concentrated on body-worn/body-centric and close-proximity systems.
The influence of the membrane on neurosteroid actions at GABAA receptors

Modern views of anesthetic neurosteroid interaction with the GABA(A) receptor conceptualize steroid ligands interacting with a protein binding site on the receptor. It has generally been assumed that the steroid interaction/binding site is contained in an extracellular domain of the receptor, and that steroid interactions are of high potency, evidenced by the low aqueous ligand concentrations required to achieve potentiation of channel function. We have been considering implications of the observations that steroids are quite lipophilic and that recently identified putative steroid binding sites are in transmembrane domains of the receptor. Accordingly, we expect that both the effective plasma membrane steroid concentration and steroid pharmacophore properties will contribute to steady-state potency and to the lifetime of steroid actions following removal of free aqueous steroid. Here we review our recent studies that address the evidence that membrane partitioning and intracellular accumulation are non-specific contributors to the effects of anesthetic steroids at GABA(A) receptors. We compare and contrast the profile of anesthetic steroids with that of sulfated steroids that negatively regulate GABA(A) receptor function. These studies give rise to the view that the inherent affinity of anesthetic steroid for GABA(A) receptors is very low; low effective aqueous concentrations are accounted for by lipid partitioning. This yields a very different picture of the interaction of neurosteroids with the GABA(A) receptor than that of steroid interactions with classical intracellular steroid receptors, which exhibit inherently high affinity. These considerations have practical implications for actions of endogenous neurosteroids. Lipophilicity will tend to promote autocrine actions of neurosteroids at GABA(A) receptors within cells that synthesize neurosteroids, and lipophilic retention will limit intercellular diffusion from the source of steroid synthesis. Lipophilicity and steroid access to the receptor binding sites also must be considerations in drug design if drugs are to effectively reach the target GABA(A) receptor site.
Navigational Checking: Implications for Electronic Map Design:

In three experiments, subjects performed a navigational checking task in which the view presented on an electronic map was compared with the view of a simulated world to determine the congruence. Map viewpoints were varied in elevation and azimuth angle disparity relative to the world view to simulate the effects of map rotation and 3D map angle on navigational checking. On most trials the area depicted was the same, whereas on a small percentage, features of the map were altered, requiring the subject to judge “mismatch”. In Experiment 1, using simple images, response time increased non-linearly with elevation angle distortion. In Experiment 3, using more complex images, similar effects were found and were augmented by effects of azimuth angle distortion. In Experiment 3, using dynamic realistic real world scenes, elevation angle and map scale effects were examined and revealed a complex pattern. The results are interpreted in terms of guidelines for 3D electronic map construction.
Clinical observations of the effect of antidiuretic hormone on nocturia in elderly men.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of desmopressin on nocturia, based on patients’ subjective scoring of nocturia, as desmopressin is widely used to treat nocturnal enuresis and nocturnal polyuria. PATIENTS AND METHODS We investigated a specific subgroup of 28 men with benign prostate obstruction and nocturia who were treated with desmopressin. Patients with nocturnal polyuria were excluded. All the patients were refractory to treatment with antimuscarinics or anticholinergics, e.g. oxybutynin, tolterodine, and propantheline bromide. We assessed the effect of desmopressin using a quantitative nocturia score and analysed its synergistic effect with α-blockers. RESULTS The mean frequency of nocturia was 6.1 before desmopressin and most (86%) patients had an improvement in nocturia within 1–12 weeks of treatment with desmopressin. There was a 43% reduction in nocturia after using desmopressin (P < 0.001). The correlation coefficient between the number of nocturnal voids and the reduction in nocturia after treatment with desmopressin was 0.756, indicating that the more severe the nocturia, the more effective was desmopressin. CONCLUSIONS Desmopressin is effective for refractory nocturia in elderly men with no nocturnal polyuria, and has limited side-effects.
SCREENING FOR HAEMATINIC DEFICIENCIES IN PATIENTS WITH RECURRENT APHTHOUS STOMATITIS

Summary To resolve the conflict among published reports as to the value of screening for haematinic deficiencies in patients with recurrent aphthous stomatitis, we evaluated 102 such patients. Venous blood was sampled for a complete blood cell count and measurements of serum iron, serum iron-binding capacity and capacity saturation, serum folate, and serum vitamin BM. Of the 40 patients deficient In iron or folate, 6 were anaemic, 23 were deficient in iron, and 22 were deficient in folate; 5 were deficient in both iron and folate. The discriminating value of the complete blood cell count between the 62 nondeficient and 40 deficient patients was low. Among the 70 patients evaluated 6 years after entry into the study, 24 (60%) of the 40 nondeficient patients and 23 (77%) of the 30 deficient patients were in remission or improved. The results of this study confirm the advisability of screening for haematinic deficiencies of iron, folate, and vitamin B12 and also suggest that replacement therapy in deficient patients is beneficial.
Juvenile pubic symphysiodesis in dysplastic puppies at 15 and 20 weeks of age.

Objective— To examine the effects of juvenile pubic symphysiodesis (JPS) on hip joint conformation, hip laxity, gait, and the development of degenerative joint disease (DJD) in dysplastic puppies operated at 15 and 20 weeks of age. Study design— Randomized controlled prospective study. Animals— Eighteen female hound puppies with increased hip laxity. Methods— Puppies were randomized to 1 of 4 treatment groups: JPS at 15 weeks of age (n = 6), sham-operated control at 15 weeks of age (n = 3), JPS at 20 weeks of age (n = 6), and sham-operated control at 20 weeks of age (n = 3). Hip extension with pain scoring, Ortolani palpation, hip reduction angle measurement (HRA), PennHIP radiography (University of Pennsylvania) with measurement of distraction index, Norberg angle measurement, and transverse computed tomographic imaging to measure acetabular angle (AA) and dorsal acetabular rim angle (DARA), were tested preoperatively, and at 1 and 2 years of age. Results— JPS resulted in significant changes in AA, HRA, DARA, and conversion to Ortolani negative status. Larger and more rapid changes in hip conformation were seen when surgery was performed at 15 weeks of age. No significant changes were identified in control dogs. Twenty-five percent of JPS dogs developed DJD whereas 83% of control dogs developed DJD. Conclusions— JPS resulted in significant improvements in hip joint conformation and hip laxity in dysplastic puppies treated at 15 and 20 weeks of age. Improvements in conformation were significantly greater when surgery was performed at 15 weeks of age. Clinical relevance— JPS appears to be a promising treatment for hip dysplasia and is a safe and technically simple procedure to perform.
Disentangling Forms of Lorentz Violation With Complementary Clock Comparison Experiments

Atomic clock comparisons provide some of the most precise tests of Lorentz and CPT symmetries in the laboratory. With data from multiple such experiments using different nuclei, it is possible to constrain new regions of the parameter space for Lorentz violation. Relativistic effects in the nuclei allow us to disentangle forms of Lorentz violation which could not be separately measured in purely nonrelativistic experiments. The disentangled bounds in the neutron sectors are at the ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}28}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{GeV}$ level, far better than could be obtained with any other current technique.
Advanced interconnected mesh power system (IMPS) MCM topologies

A design implementation package for the automation of advanced IMP MCM topologies has been developed. The IMPS topology is a patented development of the University of Arkansas which allows a complete MCM with low impedance power distribution and dense signal interconnect, to be built on only two metal layers. The IMPS topology consists of a large number of interwoven power distribution lines. The large volume of layout structures in the IMPS topology, requires the assistance of a computer-aided design package. This paper describes advanced IMPS topologies and how the IMPS design package, along with Mentor Graphics MCM Design Station, implement the different types of meshes. An example design is used to illustrate the use of the methodology. The advanced IMPS topologies described include the nonuniform IMPS mesh, which allows for higher signal interconnect density at congested locations; the partitioned IMPS mesh, which allows for different mesh structures at different locations in the same design and the asymmetric IMPS mesh, which allows for variations in power supply impedances.
A heuristic approach for embedding communication patterns in an interconnection cached parallel processing network

The problem of identifying whether a graph has a bounded l-contraction for a given integer l is known to be NP-complete for l>2. The authors describe a heuristic approach based on simulated annealing to approximate the solution of this problem. Performance results of their algorithm on graphs representing classical topologies (e.g. trees, grids, hypercubes and cube connected cycles), are presented as well. >
Eocene biogenic silica accumulation rates at the Pacific equatorial divergence zone

[2] The Eocene biosiliceous oozes of the tropical Pacific are an easily recognizable sediment type having a reddish brown color and sugary texture. These sediments are dominated by radiolarian tests, with traces of terrigenous debris, hydrothermal oxides, a few diatoms and little if any carbonate. The paucity of carbonate is a result of the very shallow Pacific calcite compensation depth (CCD) of the Eocene (3300 m) [Rea and Lyle, 2005, and references therein]. The dominance of radiolarian tests over those of diatoms is an enigma in that diatoms usually dominate siliceous-rich sediments of the Oligocene and Neogene. The opal-rich character of these Eocene sediments is commonly associated with the development of cherts within the sections. [3] These unusual characteristics of Eocene radiolarian oozes have prompted some authors to puzzle over how so much silica could have been delivered to the sea floor during
Interestingness measures and strategies for mining multi-ontology multi-level association rules from gene ontology annotations for the discovery of new GO relationships

Graphical abstractsDisplay Omitted This study describes a data mining algorithm for the discovery of new gene ontology relationships.This study presents new interestingness metrics for multi-ontology multi-level relationships.Cross-ontology relationships offer GO co-annotation candidates and cross-ontology connections.Our results indicate that our methods outperform QuickGO in generating co-annotation suggestions. The Gene Ontology (GO), a set of three sub-ontologies, is one of the most popular bio-ontologies used for describing gene product characteristics. GO annotation data containing terms from multiple sub-ontologies and at different levels in the ontologies is an important source of implicit relationships between terms from the three sub-ontologies. Data mining techniques such as association rule mining that are tailored to mine from multiple ontologies at multiple levels of abstraction are required for effective knowledge discovery from GO annotation data. We present a data mining approach, Multi-ontology data mining at All Levels (MOAL) that uses the structure and relationships of the GO to mine multi-ontology multi-level association rules. We introduce two interestingness measures: Multi-ontology Support (MOSupport) and Multi-ontology Confidence (MOConfidence) customized to evaluate multi-ontology multi-level association rules. We also describe a variety of post-processing strategies for pruning uninteresting rules. We use publicly available GO annotation data to demonstrate our methods with respect to two applications (1) the discovery of co-annotation suggestions and (2) the discovery of new cross-ontology relationships.
Longitudinal Research: The Theory, Design, and Analysis of Change:

The purpose of this article is to present cutting-edge research on issues relating to the theory, design, and analysis of change. Rather than a highly technical review, our goal is to provide management scholars with a relatively nontechnical single source useful for helping them develop and evaluate longitudinal research. Toward that end, we provide readers with “checklists” of issues to consider when theorizing and designing a longitudinal study. We also discuss the trade-offs among analytic strategies (repeated measures general linear model, random coefficient modeling, and latent growth modeling), circumstances in which such methods are most appropriate, and ways to analyze data when one is using each approach.
Extending RDBMSs To Support Sparse Datasets Using An Interpreted Attribute Storage Format

"Sparse" data, in which relations have many attributes that are null for most tuples, presents a challenge for relational database management systems. If one uses the normal "horizontal" schema to store such data sets in any of the three leading commercial RDBMS, the result is tables that occupy vast amounts of storage, most of which is devoted to nulls. If one attempts to avoid this storage blowup by using a "vertical" schema, the storage utilization is indeed better, but query performance is orders of magnitude slower for certain classes of queries. In this paper, we argue that the proper way to handle sparse data is not to use a vertical schema, but rather to extend the RDBMS tuple storage format to allow the representation of sparse attributes as interpreted fields. The addition of interpreted storage allows for efficient and transparent querying of sparse data, uniform access to all attributes, and schema scalability. We show, through an implementation in PostgreSQL, that the interpreted storage approach dominates in query efficiency and ease-of-use over the current horizontal storage and vertical schema approaches over a wide range of queries and sparse data sets.
An investigation of the calcification response of the scleractinian coral Astrangia poculata to elevated p CO 2 and the effects of nutrients, zooxanthellae and gender

Abstract. The effects of nutrients and pCO2 on zooxanthellate and azooxanthellate colonies of the temperate scleractinian coral Astrangia poculata (Ellis and Solander, 1786) were investigated at two different temperatures (16 °C and 24 °C). Corals exposed to elevated pCO2 tended to have lower relative calcification rates, as estimated from changes in buoyant weights. Experimental nutrient enrichments had no significant effect nor did there appear to be any interaction between pCO2 and nutrients. Elevated pCO2 appeared to have a similar effect on coral calcification whether zooxanthellae were present or absent at 16 °C. However, at 24 °C, the interpretation of the results is complicated by a significant interaction between gender and pCO2 for spawning corals. At 16 °C, gamete release was not observed, and no gender differences in calcification rates were observed – female and male corals showed similar reductions in calcification rates in response to elevated CO2 (15% and 19% respectively). Corals grown at 24 °C spawned repeatedly and male and female corals exhibited two different growth rate patterns – female corals grown at 24 °C and exposed to CO2 had calcification rates 39% lower than females grown at ambient CO2, while males showed a non-significant decline of 5% under elevated CO2. The increased sensitivity of females to elevated pCO2 may reflect a greater investment of energy in reproduction (egg production) relative to males (sperm production). These results suggest that both gender and spawning are important factors in determining the sensitivity of corals to ocean acidification, and considering these factors in future research may be critical to predicting how the population structures of marine calcifiers will change in response to ocean acidification.
Climate Justice, Hurricane Katrina, and African American Environmentalism

The images of human suffering from New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina remain seared in our nation's collective memory. More than 8 years on, the city and its African-American population still have not recovered fully. This reality highlights an important truth: the disturbances that accompany climate change will first and foremost affect minority communities, many of whom are economically disadvantaged. This paper: (1) describes how Hurricane Katrina, an example of the type of natural disaster that will become more prevalent with intensifying climate change, has impacted the black community of New Orleans; (2) explores the notion that African Americans, in the midst of racial oppression, have developed a unique and powerful brand of environmental thought that has much to contribute to mainstream environmentalism; and (3) argues that the voice of the black community, which has a vested interest in climate outcomes, is critically needed in today's climate debate.
Thermo-elastic finite element fatigue failure analysis

Abstract Finite element analysis software has given not only the design engineer, but forensic engineers as well, a tool for analyzing complex situations. However, even with such advanced analysis tools, the engineer is often required to adapt the results to accommodate a specific situation. For instance, finite element analysis is excellent at examining static or dynamic loads against a failure criteria. However, in situations such as fatigue multiple loadings must be combined to develop the failure stresses. This is rather easy to do for one loading case that is completely reversed. However, for multiple loadings that are not reversed, other methods must be developed to augment the finite element analyses. Using such an augmented approach, a thermal fatigue failure of a gas-fired heat exchanger was accomplished. This paper details the procedure followed.
Retention of agronomically important variation in germplasm core collections: implications for allele mining

The primary targets of allele mining efforts are loci of agronomic importance. Agronomic loci typically exhibit patterns of allelic diversity that are consistent with a history of natural or artificial selection. Natural or artificial selection causes the distribution of genetic diversity at such loci to deviate substantially from the pattern found at neutral loci. The germplasm utilized for allele mining should contain maximum allelic variation at loci of interest, in the smallest possible number of samples. We show that the popular core collection assembly procedure “M” (marker allele richness), which leverages variation at neutral loci, performs worse than random assembly for retaining variation at a locus of agronomic importance in sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L. subsp. vulgaris) that is under selection. We present a corrected procedure (“M+”) that outperforms M. An extensive coalescent simulation was performed to demonstrate more generally the retention of neutral versus selected allelic variation in core subsets assembled with M+. A negative correlation in level of allelic diversity between neutral and selected loci was observed in 42% of simulated data sets. When core collection assembly is guided by neutral marker loci, as is the current common practice, enhanced allelic variation at agronomically important loci should not necessarily be expected.
Solution structure of the Drosha double-stranded RNA-binding domain

Background: Drosha is a nuclear RNase III enzyme that initiates processing of regulatory microRNA. Together with partner protein DiGeorge syndrome critical region 8 (DGCR8), it forms the Microprocessor complex, which cleaves precursor transcripts called primary microRNA to produce hairpin precursor microRNA. In addition to two RNase III catalytic domains, Drosha contains a C-terminal double-stranded RNA-binding domain (dsRBD). To gain insight into the function of this domain, we determined the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) solution structure. Results: We report here the solution structure of the dsRBD from Drosha (Drosha-dsRBD). The abbba fold is similar to other dsRBD structures. A unique extended loop distinguishes this domain from other dsRBDs of known structure. Conclusions: Despite uncertainties about RNA-binding properties of the Drosha-dsRBD, its structure suggests it retains RNA-binding features. We propose that this domain may contribute to substrate recognition in the DroshaDGCR8 Microprocessor complex.
The contest between parsimony and likelihood.

In a “classic” phylogenetic inference problem, the observed taxa are assumed to be the leaves of a bifurcating tree and the goal is to infer just the “topology” of the tree (i.e., the formal tree structure linking the extant taxa at the tips), not amount of time between branching events, or amount of evolution that has taken place on branches, or character states of interior vertices. Two of the main methods that biologists now use to solve such problems are maximum likelihood (ML) and maximum parsimony (MP); distance methods constitute a third approach, which will not be discussed here. ML seeks to find the tree topology that confers the highest probability on the observed characteristics of tip species. MP seeks to find the tree topology that requires the fewest changes in character state to produce the characteristics of those tip species. Besides saying what the “best” tree is for a given data set, both methods also provide an ordering of trees, from best to worst. The two methods sometimes disagree about this ordering—most vividly, when they disagree about which tree is best supported by the evidence. For this reason, biologists have had to address this methodological dispute head on, rather than setting it aside as a merely “philosophical” dispute of dubious relevance to scientists “in the trenches.” The main objection that has been made against ML is that it requires the adoption of a model of the evolutionary process that one has scant reason to think is true. ML requires a process model because hypotheses that specify a tree topology (and nothing more) do not, by themselves, confer probabilities on the observations. The situation here is familiar to philosophers as an instance of “Duhem’s Thesis.” Pierre Duhem was a French philosopher of science who contended that physical theories do not entail1 claims about observations unless they are supplemented with auxiliary assumptions (Duhem, 1914). The American philosopher W.V. Quine (1953) later generalized Duhem’s thesis, claiming that all hypotheses fail to entail observational predictions all by themselves. The present point about genealogical hypotheses gives
Developing Organizational Culture In Independently Owned Restaurants: Links To Service Quality And Customers Intentions To Return

The study developed and tested a model of organizational culture and customer service as they relate to behavioral intention to return in independently owned, casual dining restaurants. It adds to previous work on organizational culture and hospitality as they related to service quality and behavioral intentions to return by assessing two types of organizational culture, clan and market types. Results indicate that, as proposed, clan culture type is positively related to high levels of perceived service quality and to intentions to return to the restaurant; however market culture type is, as expected, negatively related to intentions to return. The findings lead to practical applications for the restaurant industry with a blueprint for practitioners to develop and improve their service delivery practices in order to generate a larger number of repeat customers.
Semi-authoritarianism and democracy in Sri Lanka, 2004–2015

This four-part exploratory essay examines the nature of the state and democracy in Sri Lanka between 2004 and 2015 through the lens of four issues central to the discipline of comparative politics: state formation; economic growth and political development; derailment of democracy; and democratic transition. Section one explores whether the insights found in English-language scholarship about the state and state building hold relevance for the nature of the state in Sri Lanka between 2004 and 2015. The second section inquires into the relationship between economic growth and political development in Sri Lanka. Section three considers the ways in which democracy was compromised during the reign of Mahinda Rajapaksa’s regime. Lastly, the fourth section investigates whether the 2015 democratic transition from Mahinda Rajapaksa to Maithripala Sirisena was an elite- or mass-driven process.
Paragoge as an indicator of language contact

(2) Loanword adaptation (Uffman 2007; Haspelmath & Tadmor 2009) English class > Yoruba [kilaasi] German Arbeit > Japanese [arubaito] Arabic nūr > Swahili [nuru] ‘light’ Malay burung > Malagasy [vorona] ‘bird’ (3) Creolization English big > Sranan bigi (Wilner 2003: 124) Eng. school > Sol. Isl. Pidgin sukulu (Jourdan & Keesing 1997: 413) Eng. walk > Kromanti waka (Bilby 1983: 42) Portuguese doutor > Sao Tome dotolo ‘doctor’ (Lipski 2000) Dutch pompoen > Berbice D. Cr. pampuna ‘pumpkin’ (Singh & Muysken 1995)
Engineering for Marine Exploration and Development

The concept is advanced that the nation’s program in oceanography and the engineering aspects thereof can be more effectively planned and considered in relation to national goals if these activities are separated into three categories: (1) Scientific exploration; (2) geographic exploration; and (3) development of maritime resources. Goals can then be identified, funds and manpower allocated in relation to scientific objectives and to public purposes such as defense, development of natural resources, protection of life and property, weather forecasting, etc. Examined are similarities and differences of scientific and geographic exploration; practical benefits of maritime exploration and development; federal organization; congressional interest; and needs for government-scientific-industry partnership. Conclusions are drawn that future growth, other than in relation to the general expansion of scientific inquiry, depends on whether or not the area of marine exploration deserves public support similar to that afforded in the space program, and historically was afforded such activities as the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Random Sums of Random Variables as Economic Processes: Sales:

The cumulation of a sum of N observations from a distribution of Y where N and Y are linearly related random variables may serve as a model for the description of sales, insurance payments, changes...
Analysis on the monitoring results of life drinking water in Chuzhou City from 2002 to 2006

Objective To investigate the health condition of drinking water in Chuzhou City and promote the drinking water quality.Methods 759 samples about the water source,the factory water and the terminal water from the units of centralized water supply were continuously monitored and analyzed in Chuzhou City from 2002 to 2006.ResultsThe number of the water source samples,the factory water samples and the terminal water samples was 60,104 and 595 respectively;and the qualified rates was 50%,50%and 71.8% respectively.The total qualified rate was 69.1%.Conclusionsthe qualified rate of the water source and the factory water from units of centralized water supplying were lower in Chuzhou City from 2002 to 2006.Chlorination disinfection should be reinforced,and the water should be purified effectively.