cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prototype Effects in Non-native English: Object Coding in Verbs of Saying.

: This paper analyzes non-native English (NNE) verb of saying constructions such as discuss about and explain about, especially as they are realized in Nepali English (NpE). It shows how Langacker's 1983 theory of cognitive linguistics, along with Hopper and Thompson's 1980 prototype approach to transitivity, illuminate psycholinguistic processes involved in the creation of these structures in NNE. The first part of the analysis shows that NpE, by utilizing the semantics of the verb category, establishes a prototype for that category which is then extended to other members. The motivation for the particular prototype is explained in the light of cognitive grammar processes. The extension of the prototype to other members results in constructions which reflect an adjustment of syntax to more consistently correlate with the semantics of the category. The second part of the analysis shows that the outcome of the semantic/syntactic alignment can be regarded as an example of Hopper and Thompson's transitivity hierarchy, where the syntax of NpE clauses with verbs of saying more accurately indicates their level of transitivity than does that of their native English counterparts. Finally, it is suggested that the analysis of the NpE constructions gives us important insights into both second-language acquisition and language change.
On spin Z/2p -actions on spin 4-manifolds

Abstract Let X be a smooth, closed, connected spin 4-manifold with b 1 (X)=0 . Assume that τ :X→X generates a smooth Z /2 p -action that is spin and of even type. In this article we show that under some non-degeneracy conditions the following inequality between the positive part b 2 + (X) of the second Betti number and the signature σ(X) of X holds: b 2 + (X)≥|σ(X)|/8+p+1 . As an application, we will give classifications of spin, even Z /4 -actions on homotopy K3,S 2 ×S 2 ,K3#S 2 ×S 2 , and K3#K3 surfaces.
Correlation energies for two interacting electrons in a harmonic quantum dot

The problem of correlated electrons in a quantum dot is interesting and exciting. Their confinement within a harmonic potential provides not only a needed environment but also a unique signature to the physics of the dynamic correlation. The energy level structure of the relative motion of two electrons in such a quantum dot is studied in detail. Simple but accurate analytic expressions for the correlation energy are found by a double-parabola approximation in a WKB treatment, whose results are shown to be in excellent agreement with those of exact numerical solutions. Based on the analytical study, however, a clear physical picture emerges. It is found that the internal energy levels of a given angular momentum $m$ can be likened to a ladder of nearly equally spaced energy steps placed on a pedestal. The height of the pedestal is given by ${V}_{\mathrm{min}}(m,\ensuremath{\lambda}),$ the minimum of the effective interaction potential associated with a given $m$ and the Coulomb coupling strength \ensuremath{\lambda} relative to the confinement. Superimposing ladders of all possible values of $m$ then yields the entire level structure for the correlated relative motion. Owing to the unique nature of harmonic confinement, correlation thus manifests itself mostly through the \ensuremath{\lambda} dependence of the classical-like ${V}_{\mathrm{min}}(m,\ensuremath{\lambda}),$ in which the wave nature of the electrons plays no role except for the discrete values of $m.$
Design guidelines for Suzuki stacks as reliable high-speed Josephson voltage drivers

The application of superconducting circuits for high-performance computing and high-speed analog-to-digital converters suffers from the difficulty of amplifying the weak signals of superconducting circuits to the volt level of semiconductor electronics. We refer to the most accepted Josephson circuit used to amplify weak signals of about a millivolt to several tens of millivolts as a Suzuki stack. It can be directly triggered by a single flux quantum pulse and has a very high switching speed of about 25 ps.We report here an in-depth study of design issues for Suzuki stacks with extensive systematic simulations as well as experimental results. We explain the origin of previously reported phenomena such as multiple-level switching, high bit-error-rates, and interactions between stacks, and give design guidance for avoidance of such problems. We show experimental results for a set of Suzuki stacks operating correctly and independently with a single power supply.The presented design guidelines address important characteristics that need to be optimized: output voltage, bias margins, operating frequency, bit-error-rate, delay, power dissipation, and physical size.
A Mechanical Maxwell Demon

A direct experimental verification of Maxwell's distribution law.---A beam of molecules was directed through radial slits in two disks mounted about 8 cm apart on a common shaft which rotated at a speed from 500 to 6000 rpm. in a highly evacuated enclosure. Those molecules which, because of a favorable relation between their velocity and the speed of rotation of the disks, passed through the slits, fell on the vane of a sensitive radiometer. The variation of the radiometer deflection with the speed of the disks was observed for hydrogen, nitrogen and carbon tetrachloride. The form of the curves varied with the nature of the gas and was in agreement with the predictions of the kinetic theory, thus constituting a rather direct confirmation of Maxwell's distribution law. It is feared, however, that it is not possible at present to develop the apparatus sufficiently to obtain a "velocity spectrum" of the neutral molecules in a gas as was the original hope of the writers.
Plant defense using toxic inorganic ions: conceptual models of the defensive enhancement and joint effects hypotheses.

Abstract The concept of plant defense using toxic mineral elements originated as an explanation for extremely elevated concentrations of some elements (termed hyperaccumulation) in some plant tissues. The Defensive Enhancement Hypothesis suggests that hyperaccumulation evolved because, after an initial defensive benefit accrued from a relatively low initial concentration, increased concentration of an element provided increased plant fitness and drove evolution of higher element concentrations until hyperaccumulation was achieved. The Joint Effects Hypothesis postulates that additive or synergistic effects between element-based defenses, or between toxic element and organic chemical defenses, may have contributed to the evolution of hyperaccumulation. By lessening the concentration of an element necessary to provide an initial defensive benefit to a plant, joint effects could decrease the level of an element that provides an initial defensive benefit, allowing additive or synergistic defensive enhancement to take effect. Recent experimental tests have demonstrated defense at relatively low element concentrations, and tests of metal/metal and metal/organic compound combinations have shown joint effects. These hypotheses suggest how hyperaccumulator plants may have evolved in response to plant–herbivore interactions, and suggest that toxic element levels below those used to define hyperaccumulation may be ecologically effective.
High Density Lipoprotein-Specific Monoclonal Antibodies

Mouse monoclonal antibodies that bind either human apolipoprotein (apo) AI or human apo AII were characterized with respect to their binding of high density lipoprotein (HDL) particles in solution. The single apo AII-specific antibody bound 85% of 125I-HDL and 100% of soluble 125I-apo AII. However, none of the three apo AI-specific antibodies bound greater than 60% of either HDL or soluble apo AI. Limiting amounts of antibody or antigen, radioiodination of the ligands, and unavailability of the epitopes for reaction with antibody were not responsible for the incomplete binding of HDL and apo AI, suggesting the existance of immunochemical heterogeneity of apo AI as organized on HDL as well as free apo AI in solution. The validity of this heterogeneity was supported by demonstrating that: i) increased binding of HDL occurred when each of the apo AI antibodies were combined to from an oligoclonal antibody mixture, and ii) 100% binding of HDL occurred when two apo AI antibodies were combined with the single apo AII antibody. These studies demonstrated that all apo AII peptides in plasma HDL possess at least one epitope in common, whereas the apo A I peptides in HDL are immunochemically heterogenous.
Continuous extension of preferences

Abstract We consider the problem of extending preferences from a subset of a commodity space to the entire space. It is a simple consequence of the Tietze extension theorem that continuous preferences can be extended if they are defined on closed subsets of a normal space and are representable by utility functions. We show the following: If the space is a non-separable metric space, then extension of preferences is not always possible. In fact for (path-connected) metric spaces, extension property, utility representation property, and separability are equivalent to each other.
Some Critical Factors in Double Antibody Radioimmunoassay Systems Utilizing Sheep Anti-rabbit Precipitating Sera for Measurement of Human Serum LH, FSH and HGH

ABSTRACT The dynamics of the precipitation of labeled tracer hormones (human growth hormone, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone)-antibody complexes have been investigated utilizing rabbit antisera directed against the hormone and sheep anti-rabbit gamma globulin precipitating sera. Studies were performed in buffer alone and in the presence or absence of EDTA, varying quantities of normal human serum, heated human serum, a human euglobulin fraction and the serum supernatant remaining after precipitation, normal rabbit serum, and rabbit serum which had been frozen and thawed repeatedly. Both EDTA and normal human serum enhanced precipitation when added separately. The enhancement when both were present was greater than that due to either alone and was proportional to the amount of human serum added. The effect of human serum was reproduced by the euglobulin fraction; the serum supernatant had no effect. Heating the human serum inhibited this enhancement. Repeated freezing and thawing of th...
Efficacy of Maintenance Treatment Approaches for Childhood Overweight: A Randomized Controlled Trial

ContextNo trials for childhood overweight have examined maintenance interventions to augment the effects of initial weight loss programs.ObjectivesTo determine the short-term and long-term efficacy of 2 distinct weight maintenance approaches vs no continued treatment control following standard family-based behavioral weight loss treatment for childhood overweight, and to examine children's social functioning as a moderator of outcome.Design, Setting, and ParticipantsA parallel-group, randomized controlled trial conducted between October 1999 and July 2004 in a university-based weight control clinic. Participants were 204 healthy 7- to 12-year-olds, 20% to 100% above median body mass index (BMI) for age and sex, with at least 1 overweight parent. Children enrolled in 5 months of weight loss treatment and 150 were randomized to 1 of 3 maintenance conditions. Follow-up assessments occurred immediately following maintenance treatments and 1 and 2 years following randomization.InterventionsMaintenance conditions included the control group or 4 months of behavioral skills maintenance (BSM) or social facilitation maintenance (SFM) treatment.Main Outcome MeasuresBMI z score and percentage overweight.ResultsChildren receiving either BSM or SFM maintained relative weight significantly better than children assigned to the control group from randomization to postweight maintenance (P≤.01 for all; effect sizes d = 0.72-0.96; mean changes in BMI z scores = −0.04, −0.04, −0.05, and 0.05 for BSM alone, SFM alone, BSM and SFM together, and the control group, respectively). Active maintenance treatment efficacy relative to the control group declined during follow-up, but the effects of SFM alone (P = .03; d = 0.45; mean change in BMI z score = −0.24) and when analyzed together with BSM (P = .04; d = 0.38; mean change in BMI z score = −0.22) were significantly better than the control group (mean change in BMI z score = −0.06) when examining BMI z score outcomes from baseline to 2-year follow-up. Baseline child social problem scores moderated child relative weight change from baseline to 2-year follow-up, with low social problem children in SFM vs the control group having the best outcomes.ConclusionsThe addition of maintenance-targeted treatment improves short-term efficacy of weight loss treatment for children relative to no maintenance treatment. However, the waning of effects over follow-up, although moderated by child initial social problems, suggests the need for the bolstering of future maintenance treatments to sustain effects.Trial Registrationclinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00301197
Empirical Similarity Analysis Using Adaptive Trigonometric Functions

Similarity methods have been widely employed in engineering design and analysis to model and scale complex systems. The Empirical Similitude Method (ESM) is one such method based on the use of experimental data. Using a variant of the similitude process involving experimental data, we present in this paper, the use of advanced numerical approximations, trigonometric functions in particular to model and predict the performance of design artifacts. Specifically, an airfoil design is modeled, and the values of the drag coefficient are estimated based on the advanced ESM. Intermediate test specimens are used to correlate experimental data to produce the required prediction parameters. Mathematical development and error analysis are also elaborated by delving into continuity and adaptivity features of numerical algorithms.
A correspondence of altimetric gravity texture to abyssal hill morphology along the flanks of the Southeast Indian Ridge

[1] We examine the relationship between altimetric gravity and abyssal hill textures along the flanks of Southeast Indian Ridge, where previous studies observed a progressive west-to-east increase in abyssal hill roughness and scales. Such a relationship is often considered unlikely because abyssal hills are typically smaller than upward continuation filter scales. However, our results, which exclude ridges, fracture zones and large pseudofaults, show that altimetric gravity roughness and characteristic scales in this region also increase from west to east and, at the largest scales, gravity texture exhibits ridge-parallel lineaments. Synthetic profiles also demonstrate how the texture parameters of a filtered field are related to those of the unfiltered field, particularly where the characteristic scale of the latter is smaller than the filter length.
Dialogue on systems as clusters: Operationalizing living systems

Numerical taxonomic techniques are shown to be valuable in the operationalization of living systems theory. Living systems theory in turn provides the theoretical foundation for a number of important operational decisions routinely faced by cluster analysts. Among the points of congruence are the choice of operational taxonomic unit, the choice of variables, number of hierarchies, as well as number of clusters. Living systems theory specifies 19 subsystems for seven hierarchical levels, and numerical taxonomy facilitates operationalization of these principles.
Probing the interaction of single nanocrystals with inorganic capping ligands: time-resolved fluorescence from CdSe-CdS quantum dots capped with chalcogenidometalates.

Fluorescence intermittency and excited-state decay measurements are carried out on single CdSe–CdS core–shell quantum dots (QD) stabilized with chalcogenidometalates (ChaMs, In2Se42–, or Sn2S64–)−. The results are used to probe the nature and distribution of charge trapping sites in the QD local environment. A comparison is made between capping by a neutral organic ligand (oleylamine) and a small inorganic ligand with high charge density (ChaMs). Overall, shorter on-state durations and longer off-state durations are observed for the ChaMs. These results indicate an increased density of charge trapping sites and increased stabilization of surface-trapped charges. By varying the thickness of the CdS shell, we identified hole trapping by the ligand as the dominant charging mechanism in ChaM-capped QDs. Faster excited-state decay rates are measured for the ChaM-capped QDs, highlighting the role of strongly stabilized trapped charges in this system. Using cyclic voltammetry measurements of the ChaMs, an energy...
Photon statistics in a single-mode two-photon laser: Exact versus effective interaction hamiltonian

Abstract We study the operation and the photon statistics of a single-mode two-photon laser, using both the exact and the effective interaction hamiltonians. We obtain simple analytical expressions of the mean photon number and of the photon-number variance from both hamiltonians. The exact (effective) hamiltonian predicts that the two-photon laser can (cannot) build up from a vacuum without triggering, and the normalized photon-number variance is 11 8 ( 3 2 ) far above “threshold”. The domain of validity of the effective hamiltonian for the photon-number variance is found to be much smaller than that for the mean photon number.
The sound of silence: A nation responds to its gifted ∗

As a society, we respond to our gifted with the sound of silence. Why, and what can we do about it? In this article, I discuss the signs that the country is ignoring the gifted, why it is ignoring the gifted, and what we can do about it.
Customer Profitability in a Supply Chain

Abstract Estimating current profitability at the individual customer level is important to distinguish the more profitable customers from the less profitable ones. This is also a first step in developing estimates of customers’ lifetime values. This exercise, however, takes on additional complexities when applied to an intermediary in a supply chain, such as a distributor, because the costs of servicing a retail customer include not only those incurred directly in servicing this customer but also those incurred by the distributor in dealing with its own vendors for goods supplied to this customer. The authors develop a general model and measurement methodology to relate customer profitability to customer characteristics in a supply chain. The authors show how heterogeneity in customer purchasing characteristics leads to important profit implications and illustrate the implementation of the methodology using data from a large distributor that supplies to grocery and other retail businesses.
Memory and identity

Among the many topics covered in Sven Bernecker’s impressive study of memory is the relation between memory and personal identity. Bernecker uses his grammatical taxonomy of memory and causal account to defend the claim that memory does not logically presuppose personal identity and hence that circularity objections to memory-based accounts of personal identity are misplaced. In my comment I investigate these claims, suggesting that the relation between personal identity and memory is more complicated than Bernecker’s analysis suggests. In particular, I argue (1) that while he shows that some memories do not presuppose personal identity he fails to show that those that are appealed to in memory-based accounts of personal identity do not, and (2) that the features of his view that allow him to define memory without reference to personal identity also obscure important features of memory that must be part of a complete account.
Design of an anthropomorphic robotic finger system with biomimetic artificial joints

We describe a new robotic finger that is composed of three biomimetic joints whose biomechanics and dynamic properties are close to their human counterparts. By using five pneumatic cylinders, the robotic finger is actuated through a series of simplified antagonistic tendons whose insertion points and moment arms at each finger joint are determined by the anatomy of the human hand. Air dynamic model is empirically solved for controlling the pneumatic system. In order to optimize our future controller for the robotic finger, we use Multi-Joint dynamics with Contact(MuJoCo) — a physics engine custom-developed — to construct a kinematic model for simulating the interaction between the fingers joints and tendons. Experimental data of the tendon excursions are used to validate the efficacy of the robotic finger model. Good fits are observed both in the DIP and PIP flexors (R2 = 0.93 and R2 = 0.83) and central extensor (R2 = 0.96).
Foraging profits and thoracic temperature of honey bees (Apis mellifera).

Body temperature and duration of foraging activities were affected by the concentration of sucrose solution imbibed. When experienced foragers of Apis mellifera arrived at a gravity feeder from the hive, thoracic temperature (TTH) was independent of sucrose concentration (X = 36.3 °C). While imbibing 40% and 60% (g solute per g of solution) solutions bees maintained TTH at approximately the same high level as upon arrival, but those imbibing 10%, 20%, and 30% solutions regulated TTH lower (X = 33.5 °C). All bees departed the feeder for the hive at the same TTH (X = 36.1 °C). Bees that imbibed 40% and 60% solutions sometimes immediately took flight after imbibition and averaged less than 15 s to takeoff. Time to takeoff was 2–3 times longer for bees that had imbibed 10% and 20% solutions because warmup preceded takeoff. The rate of energy expenditure at TTH=36.3°C (at 40% and 60% solutions) was 20% greater than that at 33.3°C (at 10%, 20%, and 30% solution). Bees that fed on the highly concentrated solutions regulated TTH so that rate of net energy gain was enhanced, but bees that fed on less concentrated solutions could have increased rate of net gain by maintaining a higher TTH which would have reduced time required for takeoff. The latter bees lowered rate of expenditure of their limited energetic costs and thereby lowered short-term net profits in favor of improved long-term contribution to the colony.
Effects of hyperbaric simulation of scuba diving pressure on plasma β-endorphin

Abstract In contrast to our previous studies on the submersion of scuba divers in a state of neutral buoyancy, neither plasma β-endorphin-like immunoreactivity (β-EIR) nor affective feelings were significantly changed in scuba divers by mimicking diving pressures of 2 feet (0.6 m) and 50 feet (15.2 m) for 20 min in a hyperbaric chamber. It is concluded that the submersion-induced increase in plasma β-EIR and accompanying changes in affect reported previously are not due solely to changes in pressure.
The sketchpad model : a theory of consciousness, perception, and imagery

Subjective consciousness suggests a unity of the sensing and perceiving self that is difficult to reconcile with the multiplicity of sensory analyzers and the absence of a convergence zone in the brain. This has led--on the one hand--to the dead-end assumption of a unifying sentient homunculus and--on the other--to a denial of conscious unity. The sketchpad model presented here avoids this dilemma by viewing conscious thought as a selfreferent loop of neural activity, rather than as the information content of a fictitious set of output neurons. Use is made of the numerous neural pathways that originate at various cortical and subcortical areas and terminate in the thalamus. The model assumes that primary sensory inputs are modified by such feedback in the thalamic relay nuclei through hill-climbing processes that tend to optimize global responses.
A genetic-algorithm approach to scheduling communications for embedded parallel space-time adaptive processing algorithms

Computational efficiency is of great significance for high-performance embedded applications. The work here develops and evaluates a genetic-algorithm-based (GA-based) optimization technique for the scheduling of messages for a class of parallel embedded signal processing techniques known as space-time adaptive processing (STAP). The GA-based optimization is performed off-line, resulting in static schedules for the compute nodes of the parallel system. These static schedules are utilized for the on-line implementation of the parallel STAP application. The primary motivation and justification for devoting significant off-line effort to solving the formulated scheduling problem is the resulting reduction of hardware resources required for the actual on-line implementation. Numerical studies illustrate that reductions in hardware requirements of around 50% can be achieved by employing the results of the proposed scheduling techniques. This reduction in hardware requirement is of critical importance for STAP, which is typically an airborne application in which the size, weight, and power consumption of the computational platform are severely constrained.
The National Reading Conference: The College and Adult Reading Years

The National Reading Conference has a long and honored history spanning a period of nearly 50 years. This article delves into the birth, childhood, and adolescence of the organization with direct attention given to the germination of the Journal of Reading Behavior.
Comparative Mutagenicity of Aflatoxins Using a Salmonella/Trout Hepatic Enzyme Activation System

A modification of the Ames assay using rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) liver postmitochondrial fraction (PMF) was developed to investigate the relative mutagenic potential of a series of aflatoxins (AFs). Preliminary experiments revealed that the 20000 x g (S20) liver fraction contained a higher metabolic activity than either the S9 or S30 fractions, and that 5 mg of S20 protein/plate gave the highest mutagenic response. A 9-24 h preincubation period at 25 degrees C was also required. The results from comparative mutagenicity experiments showed the following relative potencies: AFB1 greater than AFL greater than AFG1 greater than AFM1 greater than AFB2 greater than AFP1 greater than AFQ1. The relative potencies observed with this in vitro system qualitatively correlated with the in vivo carcinogenic activity seen in trout, indicating that this assay is of value in predicting the carcinogenic potential of mycotoxins in this species.
A clonal model for human CD8+ regulatory T cells: Unrestricted contact‐dependent killing of activated CD4+ T cells

Previous studies in murine systems have demonstrated that CD8+ Treg cells down-regulate immune responses in vivo through suppressing activated CD4+ T cells. Here we describe novel regulatory CD8+ T-cell clones isolated from healthy human peripheral blood following in vitro stimulation with autologous Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)-specific CD4+ T cells. TCR activation of CD4+ target T cells was required for CD8+ Treg cells to exert suppressive activity, which was mediated through lysis of CD4+ targets in a cell contact-dependent manner. Suppression was independent of Foxp3 expression in CD8+ Treg cells, HLA compatibility between CD8+ Treg cells and CD4+ target cells and antigen-specificity of CD4+ target T cells. CD8+ Treg clones expressed CD3 and a variety of TCR Vβ chains as well as CD56, CD69, CD62L and CD95 but did not express CD16, CD161, CXCR4 and CCR7. When used together, antibodies specific for CD11a/CD18 and CD8 inhibited suppressive activity of CD8+ Treg clones. The ability to establish clonal CD8+ T cells that maintain regulatory function in vitro will facilitate further studies to define this population in vivo and to identify the mechanisms used for recognition and suppression of activated target cells.
Dock and Pak regulate olfactory axon pathfinding in Drosophila

The convergence of olfactory axons expressing particular odorant receptor (Or) genes on spatially invariant glomeruli in the brain is one of the most dramatic examples of precise axon targeting in developmental neurobiology. The cellular and molecular mechanisms by which olfactory axons pathfind to their targets are poorly understood. We report here that the SH2/SH3 adapter Dock and the serine/threonine kinase Pak are necessary for the precise guidance of olfactory axons. Using antibody localization, mosaic analyses and cell-type specific rescue, we observed that Dock and Pak are expressed in olfactory axons and function autonomously in olfactory neurons to regulate the precise wiring of the olfactory map. Detailed analyses of the mutant phenotypes in whole mutants and in small multicellular clones indicate that Dock and Pak do not control olfactory neuron (ON) differentiation, but specifically regulate multiple aspects of axon trajectories to guide them to their cognate glomeruli. Structure/function studies show that Dock and Pak form a signaling pathway that mediates the response of olfactory axons to guidance cues in the developing antennal lobe (AL). Our findings therefore identify a central signaling module that is used by ONs to project to their cognate glomeruli.
Childhood Sexual Abuse, Other Childhood Factors, and Pathways to Survivors’ Adult Relationship Quality

We were interested in understanding how the effects of childhood sexual abuse, in concert with other negative childhood experiences, were carried forward into adult romantic relationships. Data from 15,831 married or cohabitating individuals were gathered via the RELATE Questionnaire. Empirical research, attachment theory, and a general model of adult relationship quality suggested that the path from negative childhood events to adult relationship quality was mediated by a number of individual and relational affect-laden variables. Results showed that childhood abuse and other family-of-origin variables work primarily through the adult survivor’s perceptions of the events of his or her childhood. This “current impact” variable, along with the current level of depression, work through an emotion-laden relationship variable—level of emotional flooding during couple conflict—to influence the relationship quality outcome variable. Treatment implications are discussed.
Conditioning of the mouse fetus against x-irradiation death.

ConclusionsIrradiation of the mouse fetus at 15.5 days gestation to only 10 r x-rays will give it a considerably better chance of survival if it is subjected to the LD/50/30 range of exposure when adult. Other fetal ages from 14.5 to 16.5 days show some benefit of 10 r exposure, but higher exposures (25 r to 300 r) to any age fetus will have a deleterious effect in later life if the mouse is exposed to x-rays.
New bismaleimide resin systems: Decreased moisture absorption and increased impact strength

Systeme a 3 composants qui interreagissent. Le troisieme composant ne s'homopolymerise pas dans les conditions de durcissement mais reagit avec le 2eme composant et le bis-maleimide
Timing analysis in software and hardware to implement NIST elliptic curves over prime fields

This paper presents an extensive study of the timing results for a software implementation of the NIST-recommended elliptic curves over prime fields. We have designed and simulated the important field operations and point operations on NIST-recommended elliptic curves over prime fields in C++ based on the MIRACL library for the purpose of optimized speed and efficiency. Specific experiments are conducted to study the data dependency relationship between input parameters (i.e., plaintext to encode) and output results (i.e., encoded message), and we found that the timing output is only contingent on the bit length of the input, regardless of the randomicity (random or fixed) of the input. We believe the work of this paper can provide more accurate and comprehensive information when we compare the performance of a software implementation of NIST prime elliptic curves with the corresponding hardware implementation under different circumstances, such as worst-case scenario or average-case scenario. We also compare the timing results of field and point operations to the critical path delay when implemented using a 90-nm cell library.
Informativeness of child and parent reports on substance use disorders in a sample of ADHD probands, control probands, and their siblings.

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate parent-child agreement on psychoactive substance use disorder (PSUD) reporting among children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to test whether agreement level could be predicted from measures of parent and child psychopathology and substance use severity. Method The authors examined 348 pairs of child and parent assessments in a sample of 108 ADHD and 68 normal control probands and their 172 siblings aged 12 and older. Results PSUD rates were higher when the child was the reporter than when the parent was. Agreement between parent and child reports was strongest for cigarette smoking, alcohol dependence, and any PSUD. Although parental reports were frequently endorsed by the child's report, the reverse was rarely true. Predictors of parental awareness of the child's PSUD included impaired social functioning, younger age of the child, presence of multiple substance use disorders in the child, and comorbid bipolar disorder. Conclusions PSUD rates vary by informant and are higher when the child is the reporter. Because severity of PSUD and multiple substance use were the strongest predictors of parental awareness, more efforts are needed to identify the more covert and milder cases of PSUD that may not reach clinical attention. J.Am.Acad. Child Adolesc. Psychiatry, 1998, 37(7):752–758.
Stability in the three dimensional whirling problem

Mathematical model for studying three dimensional whirling shaft stability as function of angular to critical velocity ratio, using Liapunov method for equations of motion
Opiate-enhanced toxicity and noradrenergic sprouting in rats treated with 6-hydroxydopa

Because endorphin receptor activation alters the function of the central noradrenergic system, opiates may change the regenerative sprouting of neurons in response to adrenergic neurotoxins. To test this hypothesis, newborn rats were treated with several opioids and 6-hydroxydopa (6-OHDOPA) and the development of the noradrenergic system was evaluated. In combination with 6-OHDOPA morphine and naloxone potentiated the development of norepinephrine (NE) levels in the pons-medulla and cerebellum by four weeks of age, beta-Endorphin, Leu- and Met-enkephalin and d-Ala2-enkephalinamide produced a similar effect in the pons-medulla. The effect of morphine was partially attenuated by naloxone. Increased cerebellar noradrenergic histofluorescent staining was observed with the morphine + 6-OHDOPA and naloxone + 6-OHDOPA treatments. Both naloxone and morphine decreased NE levels in the pons-medulla of adult rats treated with 6-OHDOPA. These results suggest that opiates and endorphins may enhance sprouting of noradrenergic neurons following neonatal treatment with 6-OHDOPA, by increasing the toxicity of this neurotoxin.
Chapter 6 Tax policy in open economies

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses tax policy in open economies. The chapter discusses the theory of optimum taxation in an economy open to international trade. Most formal models of optimum taxation assume away international trade. Its presence does not alter any basic issues or methods. The economic objectives of the policy remain the same, and can be broadly classified as (i) correcting externalities and distortions, (ii) raising revenue for government expenditure, and (iii) redistributing income. There may also be other “non-economic” objectives or constraints. The policy instruments to pursue these aims are taxes or subsidies on the activities and transactions in the economy, within limitations imposed by observability of the actions and enforceability of the policies. International trade introduces a new set of possible externalities and distortions, and a new set of transactions to tax or subsidize.
Ethical behavior as a stakes game.

When reading “How prevalent is fraud? That's a million-dollar question” by Eliot Marshall (News of the Week, 1 Dec., p. [1662][1]), I was stunned to find that researchers and policy-makers seem to consider fraud in original research to be the same as or at least on par with undergraduate student
Contact sensitivity to urushiol: Role of covalent bond formation

Abstract A single cutaneous application of components of poison oak or ivy urushiol oils to mice results in contact sensitivity with properties of delayed-type hypersensitivity. The compounds, 3-heptadecylcatechol (HDC, from poison oak urushiol) and 3-pentadecylcatechol (PDC, from poison ivy urushiol) are completely cross-reactive. Covalent bond formation between the o -quinone intermediate of PDC and nucleophilic functionalities such as those found on proteins is known to occur in a regiospecific manner. Amino nucleophiles preferentially attack the 5-position on the catechol ring while thiol nucleophiles attack the 6-position. The present paper describes the immunological properties of the three possible ring monomethylated analogs of PDC. When mice were treated with a single epicutaneous painting with these analogs, only the 5-methyl compound (5-Me-PDC) was found to be an ineffective sensitizer. The 5-Me-PDC analog, however, was capable of inducing cellular proliferation in draining lymph nodes. Furthermore, epicutaneous pretreatment with 5-Me-PDC suppressed the subsequent induction of contact sensitivity to PDC and HDC in an antigen-specific manner. Equivalent treatment with the 6-Me-PDC analog (a good sensitizing agent) resulted in a less consistent and weaker suppressive effect, while the 4-Me-PDC analog did not display any suppressive activity. The suppressive activity could be demonstrated up to 15 days following primary painting with 5-Me-PDC. Lymph node cells obtained from mice 10 days after a single painting with 5-Me-PDC could transfer the suppressive effect. Under certain circumstances 5-Me-PDC could also sensitize, indicating that the analog retains some sensitizing abilities. Hence, blocking the 5-position of the catechol ring results in a major alteration in the type of immune response elicited. Since 5-Me-PDC is specifically blocked in terms of nucleophilic attack by amino groups, it is suggested that attack by amino nucleophiles is of primary importance in the peripheral metabolic processing of these catechols, which in turn determines the outcome of the immune response.
Evaluating programming ability in an introductory computer science course

There are numerous ways to evaluate student programming ability, all of which have benefits and drawbacks. In this paper we discuss how we have combined a number of those evaluation techniques to assess student programming ability in an introductory computer science course and statistically analyze the relationships of student performance using the different evaluation techniques.
Gamma radiation and photospheric white-light flare continuum

Recent gamma-ray observations of solar flares have provided a better means for estimating the heating of the solar atmosphere by energetic protons. Such heating has been suggested as the explanation of the continuum emission of the white-light flare. We have analyzed the effects on the photosphere of high-energy particles capable of producing the intense gamma-ray emission observed in the 1978 July 11 flare. Using a simple energy-balance argument and taking into account hydrogen ionization, we have obtained the following conclusions: (1) Heating near τ5000 = 1 in the input HSRA model atmosphere is negligible, even for very high fluxes of energetic particles. (2) Energy deposition increases with height for the inferred proton spectra, and does not depend strongly upon the assumed angle of incidence. The computed energy inputs fall in the range 10–100 ergs (cm3 s)−1 at the top of the photosphere. (3) H− continuum dominates for column densities as small as 1022 cm−3, but at greater heights hydrogen ionizes sufficiently for the higher continua to dominate the energy balance. (4) The total energy deposited in the ‘photospheric’ region of H− dominance could be within a factor of 3 of the necessary energy deposition, by comparison with the white-light flare of 1972 August 7, but the emergent spectrum is quite red so that the intensity excess in the visible band is insufficient to explain the observations.
Evaluating gas transfer velocity parameterizations using upper ocean radon distributions

[1] Sea-air fluxes of gases are commonly calculated from the product of the gas transfer velocity (k) and the departure of the seawater concentration from atmospheric equilibrium. Gas transfer velocities, generally parameterized in terms of wind speed, continue to have considerable uncertainties, partly because of limited field data. Here we evaluate commonly used gas transfer parameterizations using a historical data set of 222Rn measurements at 105 stations occupied on Eltanin cruises and the Geosecs program. We make this evaluation with wind speed estimates from meteorological reanalysis products (from National Centers for Environmental Prediction and European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting) that were not available when the 22Rn data were originally published. We calculate gas transfer velocities from the parameterizations by taking into account winds in the period prior to the date that 222Rn profiles were sampled. Invoking prior wind speed histories leads to much better agreement than simply calculating parameterized gas transfer velocities from wind speeds on the day of sample collection. For individual samples from the Atlantic Ocean, where reanalyzed winds agree best with observations, three similar recent parameterizations give k values for individual stations with an rms difference of ∼40% from values calculated using 222Rn data. Agreement of basin averages is much better. For the global data set, the average difference between k constrained by 222Rn and calculated from the various parameterizations ranges from −0.2 to +0.9 m/d (average, 2.9 m/d). Averaging over large domains, and working with gas data collected in recent years when reanalyzed winds are more accurate, will further decrease the uncertainties in sea-air fluxes.
EFFECTS OF INORGANIC FLUORIDES ON ANIMALS.

Damage to animals by atmospheric fluoride pollution involves only those animals who subsequently graze on contaminated forages. The chronic disease which results has been most extensively studied in cattle, where the general symptoms are: A n interference with normal dentition, development of osseous lesions, and a diminished appetite which may lead to weight loss or decreased milk production. Studies completed to date would indicate that depending on the conditions of exposure the tolerance level for dairy cattle is about 1.3 mg F/kg (40 ppm F in diet). Because the route of exposure is via the forage, it would seem unreasonable to base any control standard on atmospheric fluoride levels. The forage fluoride levels, analytical evidence from the animal, or even some early sign of fluoride ingestion on the animal might form a more logical basis for a standard.
Deadtime loss in software-controlled pulse-height analyzers

Abstract Deadtime losses arising in the ADC as well as in the on-line computer are examined for a number of different systems incorporating buffer interfacing with one or more words capacity. Analog derandomizers, multiplexed channels and applications in time-interval acquisitions are briefly discussed. Formulae and plots are provided to facilitate the choice among different systems and programs for a given input rate and ADC bit number, or to adjust the input rate so as to collect counting data most effectively, given a certain required resolution and program.
The evaluation and staging of clinically localized prostate cancer.

Accurate staging of clinically localized prostate cancer is crucial to ensure patients receive optimal management and counseling. Despite the growing number of diagnostic modalities, however, accurate staging remains a challenge. In this Viewpoint, Mitchell et al. discuss the relative merits of tried and tested and newly emerging staging techniques.
A heuristic simulated annealing algorithm of learning possibility measures for multisource decision making

Abstract In multisource decision making, non-normalized possibility measures are used to gauge the credibilities of each subset of information sources in order to reduce the uncertainty introduced by the sources and minimize decision error. The credibility of individual information source, i.e., the possibility density, is objectively learned from subjectively chosen training data. A learning algorithm of the possibility measures is constructed based on the ideas of simulated annealing and feasible direction. The algorithm is designed for large training data set. Two multifeature image segmentation experiments and a comparison of learning speed are presented.
The effect of baby books on mothers' reading beliefs and reading practices☆

The impact of a baby book intervention on promoting positive reading beliefs and increasing reading frequency for low-income, new mothers (n = 167) was examined. The Baby Books Project randomly assigned low-income, first-time mothers to one of three study conditions, receiving educational books, non-educational books, or no books, during pregnancy and over the first year of parenthood. Home-based data collection occurred through pregnancy until 18 months post-partum. Mothers who received free baby books had higher beliefs about the importance of reading, the value of having resources to support reading, and the importance of verbal participation during reading. The results showed that providing any type of baby books to mothers positively influenced maternal reading beliefs, but did not increase infant-mother reading practices. Maternal reading beliefs across all three groups were significantly associated with self-reported reading frequency when children were at least 12 months of age.
Behavior of focused beams in atmospheric turbulence: Measurements and comments on the theory*

Laser-beam propagation through atmospheric turbulence is analyzed theoretically and compared with measurements at λ = 0.63 and 10.6 μm. Calculations based either on irradiance statistics or mutual coherence function (MCF) are analyzed; a general expression for long-term-average beam spread based on the turbulence MCF is obtained. The spread of a laser beam focused over moderate distances can be separated into short- and long-term averages that differ by beam wander, which has been found to be essentially independent of wavelength and adequately described by geometric optics. However, a significant wavelength dependence of short-term-average beam spread is found experimentally. Measurements at 10.6 μm are nearly diffraction limited, whereas corresponding data for 0.63 μm are strongly influenced by variations of the refractive-index structure constant Cn. An empirical formula for long-term-average beam spread is at variance with the wave-number-dependent functional form predicted by MCF calculations. Both the irradiance and MCF approaches go over into the same asymptotic functional dependence for visible wavelengths and long ranges. Angular-beam-spread measurements at 0.63 μm support this conclusion.
Degradation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in an aerobic reactor

Abstract Microbial mutagenicity tests and chemical analyses were employed in this study to monitor the detoxification of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in liquid phase bioreactors. To investigate the ability of various bacterial strain treatments to metabolize TNT, pure TNT was placed in a liquid medium in a bioreactor with four different strains of bacteria. The culture fluid from each bioreactor was collected after various periods of incubation and was extracted. The extracts from each sampling time were tested in the Salmonella /mutagenicity bioassay to determine how metabolites produced by each bacterial strain affected the mutagenicity of each TNT extract. Results showed that all strains reduced the mutagenicity of TNT. HPLC analysis of the culture fluid extracts confirmed that although some bacterial strains (such as I-15) metabolized TNT quickly, the extracts remain mutagenic. The data indicate that the pathway utilized for biological transformation of TNT will have a significant impact on the rate of detoxification.