On Ptolemaic metric simplicial complexes

We show that under certain mild conditions, a metric simplicial complex which satisfies the Ptolemy inequality is a CAT(0) space. Ptolemy's inequality is closely related to inversions of metric spaces. For a large class of metric simplicial complexes, we characterize those which are isometric to Euclidean space in terms of metric inversions.Comment: 13 page

Approximation paper, part 1

In this paper we discuss approximations between neural nets, fuzzy expert systems, fuzzy controllers, and continuous processes

Short-Run Implications of Cap-and-Trade versus Baseline-and-Credit Emission Trading Plans: Experimental Evidence

Two approaches to emissions trading are cap-and-trade, in which an aggregate cap on emissions is distributed in the form of allowance permits, and baseline-and-credit, in which firms earn emission reduction credits for emissions below their baselines. Theoretical considerations suggest the long-run equilibria of the two plans will differ if baselines are proportional to output, because a variable baseline is equivalent to an output subsidy. This is in opposition to the prediction that when output capacity is fixed, the short-run equilibria of the two plans will be identical. As a first step towards testing the long-run model, this paper reports on a laboratory experiment designed to test the shortrun prediction. A computerized environment has been created in which subjects representing firms choose emission technologies under fixed output capacity and participate in markets for emission rights and for output. Demand for output is simulated. All decisions are tracked through a double-entry bookkeeping system. Our evidence supports the theoretical prediction that the two trading mechanisms yield similar outcomes, however both exhibit significant deviation from the predicted equilibrium.

The effects of high-temperature brazing and thermal cycling on the mechanical properties of Hastelloy X

Data are presented on the effects of brazing alloy, brazing operation, thermal cycling, and combinations of these on the yield strength, elongation, tensile strength, and fatigue life of thin gage Hastelloy X. These data show that brazing at 1461 K (2170 F) with a Ni-Pd-Au alloy and subsequent exposure to 200 service thermal cycles between 533 and 1144 K (500 and 1600 F) result in reduction of as much as 39 percent in yield strength, 33 percent in elongation, 14 percent in tensile strength, and 26 percent in fatigue limit of Hastelloy X, as compared to as-received materials. These property losses are primarily caused by the brazing operation rather than the subsequent service thermal cycles

Ctenosaura palearis

Number of Pages: 3Integrative BiologyGeological Science

Erosion of iron-chromium alloys by glass particles

The material loss upon erosion was measured for several iron-chromium alloys. Two types of erodent material were used: spherical glass beads and sharp particles of crushed glass. For erosion with glass beads the erosion resistance (defined as the reciprocal of material loss rate) was linearly dependent on hardness. This is in accordance with the erosion behavior of pure metals, but contrary to the erosion behavior of alloys of constant composition that were subjected to different heat treatments. For erosion with crushed glass, however, no correlation existed between hardness and erosion resistance. Instead, the erosion resistance depended on alloy composition rather than on hardness and increased with the chromium content of the alloy. The difference in erosion behavior for the two types of erodent particles suggested that two different material removal mechanisms were involved. This was confirmed by SEM micrographs of the eroded surfaces, which showed that for erosion with glass beads the mechanism of material removal was deformation-induced flaking of surface layers, or peening, whereas for erosion with crushed glass it was cutting or chopping