Semiparametric estimation of (constrained) ultrametric trees

This paper introduces a general, formal treatment of dynamic constraints, i.e., constraints on the state changes that are allowed in a given state space. Such dynamic constraints can be seen as representations of "real world" constraints in a managerial context. The notions of transition, reversible and irreversible transition, and transition relation will be introduced. The link with Kripke models (for modal logics) is also made explicit. Several (subtle) examples of dynamic constraints will be given. Some important classes of dynamic constraints in a database context will be identified, e.g. various forms of cumulativity, non-decreasing values, constraints on initial and final values, life cycles, changing life cycles, and transition and constant dependencies. Several properties of these dependencies will be treated. For instance, it turns out that functional dependencies can be considered as "degenerated" transition dependencies. Also, the distinction between primary keys and alternate keys is reexamined, from a dynamic point of view.

Edge-dependent reflection and inherited fine structure of higher-order plasmons in graphene nanoribbons

We investigate higher-order plasmons in graphene nanoribbons, and present how electronic edge states and wavefunction fine structure influence the graphene plasmons. Based on nearest-neighbor tight-binding calculations, we find that a standing-wave model based on nonlocal bulk plasmon dispersion is surprisingly accurate for armchair ribbons of widths even down to a few nanometers, and we determine the corresponding phase shift upon edge reflection and an effective ribbon width. Wider zigzag ribbons exhibit a similar phase shift, whereas the standing-wave model describes few-nanometer zigzag ribbons less satisfactorily, to a large extent because of their edge states. We directly confirm that also the larger broadening of plasmons for zigzag ribbons is due to their edge states. Furthermore, we report a prominent fine structure in the induced charges of the ribbon plasmons, which for armchair ribbons follows the electronic wavefunction oscillations induced by inter-valley coupling. Interestingly, the wavefunction fine structure is also found in our analogous density-functional theory calculations, and both these and tight-binding numerical calculations are explained quite well with analytical Dirac theory for graphene ribbons

Emergent scale invariance of non-classical plasmons in graphene nanoribbons

Using a nearest-neighbor tight-binding model we investigate quantum effects of plasmons on few-nanometer wide graphene nanoribbons, both for zigzag and armchair edge terminations. With insight from the Dirac description we find an emerging scale-invariant behavior that deviates from the classical model both for zigzag and armchair structures. The onset of the deviation can be related to the position of the lowest parabolic band in the band structure. Dirac theory is only valid in the parameter subspace where the scale invariance holds that relates narrow ribbons with high doping to wide ribbons with low doping. We also find that the edge states present in zigzag ribbons give rise to a blueshift of the plasmon, in contrast to earlier findings for graphene nanodisks and nanotriangles

Образное осмысление движения в русском языке (на материале глаголов движения в русских народных говорах)

На диалектном материале исследуется семантика глаголов, обозначающих поступательное, колебательное и вращательное движение, и выявляются параметры, по которым происходит создание метафорических образов данных типов движения

Improved ventricular function during inhalation of PGI(2) aerosol partly relies on enhanced myocardial contractility

Inhaled prostacyclin (PGI(2)) aerosol induces selective pulmonary vasodilation. Further, it improves right ventricular ( RV) function, which may largely rely on pulmonary vasodilation, but also on enhanced myocardial contractility. We investigated the effects of the inhaled PGI(2) analogs epoprostenol (EPO) and iloprost (ILO) on RV function and myocardial contractility in 9 anesthetized pigs receiving aerosolized EPO (25 and 50 ng center dot kg(-1) center dot min(-1)) and, consecutively, ILO (60 ng center dot kg(-1) center dot min(-1)) for 20 min each. We measured pulmonary artery pressure ( PAP), RV ejection fraction (RVEF) and RV end-diastolic-volume (RV-EDV), and left ventricular end-systolic pressure-volume-relation (end-systolic elastance, E-es). EPO and ILO reduced PAP, increased RVEF and reduced RVEDV. E-es was enhanced during all doses tested, which reached statistical significance during EPO25ng and ILO, but not during EPO50ng. PGI(2) aerosol enhances myocardial contractility in healthy pigs, contributing to improve RV function. Copyright (C) 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel

JOINT LOADING OF LOWER EXTREMITIES DURING NORDIC WALKING COMPARED TO WALKING BASED ON KINETIC AND KINEMATIC DATA

Based on a higher cardio-pulmonary and cardio-vascular benefit and a promised reduction of mechanical load of the musculoskeletal system Nordic Walking (NW) shows an increased market potential. The present study should investigate whether there are differences in joint loading of lower extremities using an inverse dynamics approach between NW and Walking. In this experiment 15 subjects participated, who were already experienced with the NW technique. Kinematic data were collected using a 6-camera 3-dimensional Vicon System. Kinetic data were recorded using a Kistler force plate. Based on the findings it is to summarize, that the use of the poles during NW, performing the diagonal technique, do not lead to a reduction of joint loading of the lower extremities compared to Walking in general. Moreover for NW a higher knee joint loading during landing could be observed which is caused by the specific NW technique

Market Segment Derivation and Profiling Via a Finite Mixture Model Framework

The Marketing literature has shown how difficult it is to profile market segments derived with finite mixture models, especially using traditional descriptor variables (e.g., demographics). Such profiling is critical for the proper implementation of segmentation strategy. We propose a new finite mixture modelling approach that provides a variety of model specifications to address this segmentation dilemma. Our proposed approach allows for a large number of nested models (special cases) and associated tests of (local) independence to distinguish amongst them. A commercial application to customer satisfaction is provided where a variety of different model specifications are tested and compared.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/46979/1/11002_2004_Article_399784.pd