cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Politico-economic determinants of forestry policy in Cameroon

Factors that influence the policy choices of forest and environmental policy-makers in developing countries are yet to be completely understood. The study reported in this paper seeks to contribute to efforts addressed to promoting knowledge of these factors. It does so by analyzing the forest and environmental policy and policy field of Cameroon. The field is shown to be crowded, involving entities and individuals with disparate goals. The state emerges as the most powerful stakeholder in the field. It is argued that despite their seemingly inconsistent and contradictory nature, major provisions of Cameroon’s forestry and environmental policy have a unified purpose, viz., to serve the interests of powerful domestic and international stakeholders. It is concluded that the interests of these stakeholders, rather than the country’s national development goals, constitute the major determinant of the policy choices of its forest and environmental policy-makers.
An Investigation of Non-Linear Viscoelastic Effects on Load Transfer in a Symmetric Double-Lap Joint

Abstract The purpose of this investigation is to explore some of the effects of the non-linear viscoelastic behavior of the adhesive material on the response of a symmetric lap-joint. Although full accounting for the non-linear behavior requires the employment of finite-element methods the semi-analytical solution presented in this work contains a paramount feature of the nonlinear character and therefore provides insight into the complex response of the joint.
Estimated erosion rates on Mount Rainier, Washington

Denudation rates on Mount Rainier, Washington, were determined by estimating dissection of the original landform, volumes of glacial and lahar deposits, present sediment loads of meltwater streams, reservoir sedimentation rates, and super-glacial debris loads. Rates are generally as great or greater than rates in other glaciated basins. The highest rates (3,000 to 8,000 mm/1,000 yr) were indicated by stream-sediment loads and reservoir sedimentation; however, modern stream-sediment loads may be abnormally great because of the exposure of large amounts of unstable debris by twentieth-century glacier retreat. Catastrophic events, including lahars and large rockfalls, account for a substantial part of the total erosion.
Identification and characterization of Kentucky self-employed occupational injury fatalities using multiple sources, 1995-2004.

BACKGROUND: Identification and characterization of occupational injury fatalities in self-employed workers typically relies on a single data source and thus may miss some cases. METHODS: Kentucky self-employed worker injury fatalities were identified using Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE) program data (1995-2004) and compared to non self-employed worker data. Occupations and industries listed on death certificates were compared to those in which the decedent was actually engaged. RESULTS: Of 1,281 Kentucky worker injury deaths, 28% were self-employed. Death certificates failed to identify 31% of these deaths as work-related; industry and occupation were incorrectly identified in 27% and 16%, respectively. Fifty-seven percent of the deaths were in agriculture, primarily tractor-related. For Kentucky, the self-employed crude death rate was higher (27.6/100,000) than the non self-employed worker (5.4/100,000) rate or the US (11.5/100,000) self-employed rate. CONCLUSIONS: Multiple information sources improve identification of self-employed status in work-related injury fatalities. Effective prevention requires accurate surveillance and examination of contributing factors. Self-employed worker injuries in high-risk industries should be more fully examined for development of effective injury prevention programs. Language: en
Selective Variables in the Academic Achievement of Junior College Students from Different Socioeconomic Backgrounds

AbstractThis study sought to determine whether or not there were identifiable personality factors which distinguish between academically achieving and nonachieving junior college freshmen from lowe...
On the utility of finite element theory for computational fluid dynamics

An implicit finite element numerical solution algorithm is derived for the compressible Navier-Stokes equations expressed in generalized coordinates. The theoretical basis utilizes a Galerkin-Weighted Residuals formulation, and extremization of approximation error within the context of a multipole expansion. A von Neumann analysis for a simplified form indicates the algorithm fourth- to sixth-order phase accurate, with third-order dissipation for the elementary linear element construction. Performance is improved for the algorithm constructed using quadratic interpolation. Numerical experiments for shocked duct flows are employed to optimize the several algorithm parameters. Additional numerical solutions validate algorithm accuracy and utility for aerodynamics applications.
Microphysical models for inelastic material response

Abstract The basic idea of a microphysical model is the description of inelastic behavior in terms of the evolution of some microstructure. For example, fracture and subsequent stress relaxation can be described in terms of the growth and coalescence of microcracks. In this case, the structural units are the microcracks. The three elements of a microphysical model are discussed. There are: 1. 1) a mechanical model for the evolution of a structural unit; 2. 2) a statistical description of the microstructure in terms of its units; and 3. 3) an effective modulus theory to relate the microstructure to macroscopic material properties. A specific microphysical model is described to further illustrate these points. The Bedded Crack Model (BCM) is a constitutive model for brittle and quasibrittle materials. BCM describes fracture in terms of the evolution of a statistical distribution of microcracks. Microcrack growth in BCM is governed by a generalized Griffith criterion. The effect of cracks on material properties is described by self-consistent effective elastic moduli. Inelastic behavior is shown to result from the evolution of dimensionless internal variables that are moments of the statistical crack distribution function.
Triiodothyronine receptors in porcine granulosa cells

Abstract Triiodothyronine has been found to enhance gonadotropin- and insulin-stimulated morphologic luteinization and progesterone production by porcine granulosa cells in culture. The role of triiodothyronine in the above events is not well defined. One possibility is that triiodothyronine effects are direct and are receptor mediated. To test this concept, we undertook this study to investigate the presence of triiodothyronine receptors in granulosa cells aspirated from large (6 to 12 mm), medium (3 to 5 mm), and small (1 to 2 mm) porcine ovarian follicles. Crude nuclei were isolated and tested for iodine 125-triiodothyronine specific binding. Binding was time and temperature dependent and maximal in cells from small follicles at pH 8. Scatchard analysis yielded a mean apparent dissociation constant of 5.5 × 10 −9 mol/L and a mean apparent total number of binding sites of 1.0 pmol/mg of deoxyribonucleic acid. Competition experiments revealed the following relative binding affinities: triiodothyronine >l-thyroxine > reverse triiodothyronine. Gonadotropins, prostaglandins, epidermal growth factor, and insulin did not compete with 125 I-triiodothyronine for binding. We conclude that there are nuclear binding sites in porcine granulosa cells with characteristics expected of a triiodothyronine receptor which might mediate a direct action of triiodothyronine on granulosa cells.
“Male and Female He Created Them”: Gen 1:27b in the Context of the Priestly Account of Creation

In the history of biblical interpretation and dogmatic speculation, Gen 1:26–28 has proved remarkably fecund as a source of exegetical and theological reflection. Literature on the passage is now boundless, but shows no sign of ceasing or abating, despite the appearance in recent decades of several exhaustive treatments of the text and the existence of substantial consensus among biblical scholars. The reason for the perpetual fascination of the passage lies in the nature and limits of the text. The verses contain a fundamental, and unique, statement of biblical anthropology and theology–presented in a terse and enigmatic formulation. A rare attempt within the OT literature to speak directly and definitively about the nature of humanity in relation to God and other creation, the statement is at once limited in its content, guarded in its expression, and complex in its structure. As a consequence, philologist and theologian are enticed and compelled in ever new contexts of questions and understandings to explore anew the meaning and implications of creation “in the divine image”–for it is this striking and unique expression, above all, that has dominated the discussion.
Specificity and function of T cells bearing γδ receptors

Abstract It is now clear that two lineages of T cells bearing the CD3 antigen can be defined, based on the nature of the heterodimeric receptor chains (αβ or γδ) expressed. Here, Charles Janeway and colleagues speculate that the γδ receptors (TCR1) may be largely specific for class I MHC (major histocompatibility complex) antigens different from those expressed on most somatic cells. Two potential functions of TCR1-bearing cells are surveillance of epithelia and differentiation of T cells bearing αβ receptors (TCR2) in the thymus.
Activation of Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Receptor-1 by FTY720 Is Neuroprotective After Ischemic Stroke in Rats

Background and Purpose—FTY720 is a known sphingosine 1–phosphate receptor agonist. In the present study, we investigated the neuroprotective effect of postischemic administration of FTY720 in rats with 2 hours transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Methods—One hundred eleven male rats were randomly assigned to sham-operated and MCAO treated with vehicle, 0.25 mg/kg and 1 mg/kg of FTY720, another selective sphingosine 1–phosphate receptor-1 agonist SEW2871 (5 mg/kg), or 0.25 mg/kg of FTY720 plus a sphingosine 1–phosphate antagonist, VPC23019 (0.5 mg/kg). Drugs were injected intraperitoneally immediately after reperfusion. Neurological score and infarct volume were assessed at 24 and 72 hours after MCAO. Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated uridine 5′-triphosphate-biotin nick end-labeling were conducted at 24 hours after MCAO. Results—FTY720 significantly reduced infarct volume and improved neurological score at 24 and 72 hours after MCAO com...
Effects of gonadal hormones on eating and body weight in mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus).

Abstract The effects of gonadal steroids on food intake and body weight were studied in Mongolian gerbils. Orchiectomy of adult male gerbils caused significant increases in body weight but had no detectable effect on food intake. Treatment with testosterone propionate or 5α-dihydrotestosterone propionate (100 μg/day) had no effect on food intake or body weight of orchiectomized males, but withdrawal of exogenous androgen treatment had the same effect as orchiectomy, increased body weight with no increase in food intake. Treatment with estradiol benzoate (EB; 2 μg/day) increased food intake and body weight of ovariectomized gerbils, but progesterone (1 mg/day) had no effect on these measures when given by itself. However, when progesterone was given concurrently with EB it synergized with the estrogen and further increased eating and body weight. These results are contrasted with previous work in other mammalian species.
SCI and CAM—False Hope?

Spinal cord injury or disease often presents their sufferers with difficult physical challenges as well as existential challenges that go to the very core of their being. If you add to this mixture of physical and spiritual challenge the promise of a new cure, or at least significant symptomatic relief for the injured person, you can begin to understand the appeal of complimentary and alternative medicine (CAM) over conventional medicine. The appeal of CAM is all the more powerful when conventional medical therapies have not provided the patient with a cure, restoration of normal function, or even symptomatic relief. This article examines the issue of whether or not the hope that CAM provides to individuals is well placed. My view is that the therapies generally falling under the rubric of CAM are not efficacious and in some instances may be harmful. Nonetheless, there are a number of lessons that medical professionals and the public they serve can and should learn from the phenomena of CAM, lessons that ...
Purpose in life and reasons for living as mediators of the relationship between stress, coping, and suicidal behavior

Positive psychological factors that help protect vulnerable persons from suicidal behavior are vital in understanding resiliency and suicide prevention. The purpose of the current study was to examine whether positive factors (including purpose in life, reasons for living, and coping styles) mediate the relationship between stressful life events and suicidal behaviors among 416 college student volunteers. Reasons for living inversely predicted suicidal behavior and thoughts directly as well as indirectly via an inverse relationship with depression. Purpose in life indirectly predicted suicidal behavior and thoughts via an inverse effect on depression, whereas emotion-focused coping indirectly predicted suicidal behavior and thoughts both through an effect on depression and an inverse effect on reasons for living. In addition, avoidant coping indirectly predicted suicidal behavior via a direct, positive effect on reasons for living. Reasons for living and emotion-oriented coping had the largest effects in ...
A little confidence.

It was the second day of medical school and already we were headed up to the wards to confront our first real patients. With a shaking hand and a similar shake in my voice, I introduced myself as a...
Community disassembly and reassembly following experimental storm surge and wrack application

Questions The structure of coastal vegetation could be altered by a regime of more intense hurricanes stemming from global climate change: (1) How do plant communities and environmental conditions across an estuarine gradient change in relation to simulated storm surge and wrack deposition? and; (2) Are there differences in the magnitude of compositional shifts along an underlying soil water conductivity gradient? Location Coastal northwest Florida, USA. Methods Four plant communities spanning an estuarine gradient (brackish marsh, freshwater marsh, wetland forest and pine savanna) were surveyed prior to and following flooding with artificial seawater and manual application of wrack. Environmental data (soil water conductivity and light transmission to soil surface) were also collected before and after treatment applications. Soil samples for texture analysis were collected prior to experimental treatments. Results The storm surge treatment reduced cover of most species, causing browning and eventual loss of leaves, particularly in pine savanna species. Soil water conductivity remained elevated for 6 mo following the experimental storm surge in the wetland forest and pine savanna. Wrack deposition resulted in substantial mortality of underlying vegetation and reduced species richness in all communities. The composition of the pine savanna plant community shifted in response to experimental storm surge and wrack application, with ‘hardy’ species capable of resprouting becoming more abundant and sensitive species dropping out of the assemblage. Vegetation zones with high background soil salinity were more resilient to the effects of storm surge and wrack deposition. Conclusions The results suggest that the combined effects of storm surge and wrack deposition can drive compositional shifts, particularly in more upland assemblages. We conclude that vegetation consisting of species ‘naive’ to increased salinity and/or burial by wrack are highly vulnerable to tropical storm intensification.
Testing of A size criterion for DNA–hydrocarbon binding

The intercalation model of DNA–hydrocarbon binding appears reasonable, but rests on indirect evidence only. To test the model, a size criterion for binding has been proposed. The size criterion is based on the assumption that hydrophobic forces play a major role in the binding of hydrocarbons to DNA. It states that hydrocarbons which are small enough to intercalate into DNA and be well protected from contact with the medium, will be found to bind to DNA; those that are too large will not. We report results on the binding of fourteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons to DNA. Predictions based on the size criterion were found to be valid in all cases tested.
Gas-Phase Heterogeneous Photocatalytic Oxidation of Ethanol: Pathways and Kinetic Modeling

The kinetics of photocatalytic oxidation of ethanol has been studied, and the formation and destruction rates of products have been measured. The important intermediates were identified as acetaldehyde, acetic acid, formaldehyde, and formic acid. Minor reaction channels resulted in the formation of methyl formate, ethyl formate, and methyl acetate. Kinetic and “dark” adsorption parameters were measured for ethanol and all of the important intermediates. We have modeled the complete oxidation process using a sequential chemical reaction mechanism. This mechanism is based primarily upon known homogeneous chemistry. However, the formation of acids from aldehydes in photocatalytic oxidation is different from known homogeneous chemistry and demonstrates the ability of the solid surface to stabilize energized transient species. We have measured the adsorp tion isotherms for ethanol and the oxidized intermediates and have concluded that there are two adsorption sites for some of the chemical species. We think it...
Connectivity of Phase Boundaries in Strictly Convex Domains

We consider equilibria arising in a model for phase transitions which correspond to stable critical points of the constrained variational problem \(\inf_{\int_{\Omega} u\,dx=m} \int_{\Omega} \frac{1}{\varepsilon}W(u)+\frac{\varepsilon}{2} \big|\nabla u\big|^2 dx.\) Here W is a double‐well potential and \(\Omega\subset\R^n\) is a strictly convex domain. For e small, this is closely related to the problem of partitioning Ω into two subdomains of fixed volume, where the subdomain boundaries correspond to the transitional boundary between phases. Motivated by this geometry problem, we show that in a strictly convex domain, stable critical points of the original variational problem have a connected, thin transition layer separating the two phases. This relates to work in [GM] where special geometries such as cylindrical domains were treated, and is analogous to the results in [CHo] which show that in a convex domain, stable critical points of the corresponding unconstrained problem are constant. The proof of connectivity employs tools from geometric measure theory including the co‐area formula and the isoperimetric inequality on manifolds. The thinness of the transition layer follows from a separate calculation establishing spatial decay of solutions to the pure phases.
Effects of topical retinoic acid on intracutaneously implanted S91 melanoma in mice.

Previous studies have demonstrated that retinoids possess antineoplastic properties against melanoma. The purpose of this study was to determine whether topically applied retinoic acid could prevent melanoma development in syngeneic mice after intracutaneous cell innoculation. Trans-retinoic acid in DMSO was applied daily for 28 days after melanoma implantation and tumor growth was quantitated by the uptake of [ 14 C]thiouracil, a tracer compound specific for melanoma which is incorporated linearly according to the weight of the tumor. Marked reduction in tumor growth was noted at the highest concentration (0.1%) tested and lesser but significantly decreased tumor growth patterns were also realized at lower concentrations in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, topically applied retinoic acid is capable of inhibiting S91 melanoma growth in vivo.
Reading Instruction in Tier 1: Bridging the Gaps by Nesting Evidence-Based Interventions within Differentiated Instruction.

Response to Intervention (RtI) has brought about many changes in the way educational services are being provided to students who are at risk of school failure. Schools are seeking strategies that will be beneficial to more and more students, including those students whose instruction is primarily in the core, or Tier 1. Nesting proven, evidence-based practices more widely in an RtI model is discussed as an efficient strategy for closing achievement gaps and research--practice gaps. To differentiate instruction relative to RtI and the core curriculum, the application of strategies typically reserved for Tiers 2 and 3 is suggested. An example of embedding, or nesting, interventions at Tier 1 is given. Organizational tools are provided for Tier 1 whole-class, differentiated instruction in fluency training, including repeated readings. The roles of the school psychologist, teacher, and administrator in the model are considered, along with specific, targeted examples and approaches. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Solubility mechanisms of fluorine in peralkaline and meta-aluminous silicate glasses and in melts to magmatic temperatures

Abstract Structural interaction between dissolved fluorine and silicate glass (25°C) and melt (to 1400°C) has been examined with 19F and 29Si MAS NMR and with Raman spectroscopy in the system Na2O-Al2O3-SiO2 as a function of Al2O3 content. Approximately 3 mol.% F calculated as NaF dissolved in these glasses and melts. From 19F NMR spectroscopy, four different fluoride complexes were identified. These are (1) Na-F complexes (NF), (2) Na-Al-F complexes with Al in 4-fold coordination (NAF), (3) Na-Al-F complexes with Al in 6-fold coordination with F (CF), and (4) Al-F complexes with Al in 6-fold, and possibly also 4-fold coordination (TF). The latter three types of complexes may be linked to the aluminosilicate network via Al-O-Si bridges. The abundance of sodium fluoride complexes (NF) decreases with increasing Al/(Al + Si) of the glasses and melts. The NF complexes were not detected in meta-aluminosilicate glasses and melts. The NAF, CF, and TF complexes coexist in peralkaline and meta-aluminosilicate glasses and melts. From 29Si-NMR spectra of glasses and Raman spectra of glasses and melts, the silicate structure of Al-free and Al-poor compositions becomes polymerized by dissolution of F because NF complexes scavenge network-modifying Na from the silicate. Solution of F in Al-rich peralkaline and meta-aluminous glasses and melts results in Al-F bonding and aluminosilicate depolymerization. Temperature (above that of the glass transition) affects the Qn-speciation reaction in the melts, 2Q3 ⇔ Q4 + Q2, in a manner similar to other alkali silicate and alkali aluminosilicate melts. Dissolved F at the concentration level used in this study does not affect the temperature-dependence of this speciation reaction.
Determining the minimum sample size required to obtain sufficient progeny with a desired genotype at two quantitative trait loci.

In this paper we determine the minimum progeny sample size n needed to obtain, with probability α, at least m individuals of a desired two-locus genotype ℊ affecting quantitative traits. The two quantitative trait loci (QTLs) of interest may be linked or independent, with or without epistatic interaction between them. Parental genotypes may be known or unknown, and gene action at either locus may range from additive to overdominance. To reduce the required sample size, mating patterns that will produce a high proportion of desired progeny are suggested for different progeny genotypes and dominance levels. Based on the assumption of normally distributed quantitative trait expression, individuals can be classified into a genotype or genotypic group according to their phenotypic expressions. This technique is used to select both parents and progeny with unknown genotypes. Choice of parental classification criteria for a given quantitative trait affects classification accuracy, and hence the probability of obtaining progeny of the desired genotype. The complexity of this probability depends on the dominance level at each locus, the recombination fraction, and the awareness of parental genotypes. The procedure can be expanded to deal with more than two loci.
Hereditary somnambulism in Dracula.

I have noticed that Bram Stoker's Dracula1 (1897), a multifaceted classic, contains the first known discussion of hereditary somnambulism. Lucy Westenra (who eventually is killed, after becoming a vampire subsequent to having been bitten by Count Dracula) long had a habit of sleep-walking. Moreover Lucy's mother, Mrs Westenra, tells Mina Murray ‘... that her husband, Lucy's father, had the same habit [sleep-walking], that he would get up in the night and dress himself and go out, if he were not stopped.’ Sleep-walking runs in the Westenra family. The next2 description of a hereditary component of somnambulism is not until nearly a half century later. More recent studies (e.g. Ref. 3 and references therein) continue to find a hereditary component in somnambulism, though no gene for somnambulism has yet been found. Dracula abounds with medical content and allusions—e.g. blood transfusions, diagnosis-based treatment, David Ferrier (1843-1928), and J-M Charcot (1825-1893). Also, two important figures in the book, John Seward and Professor Abraham Van Helsing, are physicians. Even the vampire legend itself, in Dracula and other stories, may well have a medical basis4,5 (both vampirism and rabies are infectious conditions characterized by general limbic system derangement in affected individuals, as well as biting and blood-seeking behaviour). Stoker spent orders of magnitude longer on Dracula than on any of his other literary projects—six years compared with a couple of months—and read widely. Besides being an author, Bram Stoker graduated from Trinity College Dublin with honours in mathematics, and worked as a civil servant and a manager for stage actors (Bram is short for Abraham, and one suspects that Stoker portrays himself in the eccentric, eclectic, and peripatetic genius Professor Van Helsing, who has not only an MD but also a DPh and a DLit and is a lawyer). Also, in writing Dracula Stoker was greatly influenced by Mary Shelley's Frankenstein which was itself imbued with the medical and scientific spirit of James Lind, MD, FRS (1736-1812) via his lectures and contact with Shelley and her husband6. It is not known whence or how Stoker came to appreciate the hereditary nature of somnambulism, or why he chose to include the seemingly non-essential detail in Dracula.
Can progressive resistance strength training reduce physical disability in older adults? A meta-analysis study

Purpose. The decline of muscle strength is associated with physical disability in late adulthood. Progressive resistance strength training has been demonstrated to be an effective intervention to i...
MULTIPLE SPECIES OF CPP32 AND MCH2 ARE THE MAJOR ACTIVE CASPASES PRESENT IN APOPTOTIC CELLS

The activity of ICE-like proteases or caspases is essential for apoptosis. Multiple caspases participate in apoptosis in mammalian cells but how many caspases are involved and what is their relative contribution to cell death is poorly understood. To identify caspases activated in apoptotic cells, we developed an approach to simultaneously detect multiple active caspases. Using tumor cells as a model, we have found that CPP32 (caspase 3) and Mch2 (caspase 6) are the major active caspases in apoptotic cells, and are activated in response to distinct apoptosis-inducing stimuli and in all cell lines analyzed. Both CPP32 and Mch2 are present in apoptotic cells as multiple active species. In a given cell line these species remained the same irrespective of the apoptotic stimulus used. However, the species of CPP32 and Mch2 detected varied between cell lines, indicating differences in caspase processing. The strategy described here is widely applicable to identify active caspases involved in apoptosis.
Surgical necrotizing enterocolitis defined.

Ever since Bell et al.1 first attempted to define necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) through clinical staging criteria, there have been concerns with our ability to distinguish NEC from other disease entities. The field of neonatology has modified those criteria on multiple occasions as our understanding of the pathogenesis of NEC has evolved.2,3,4 One of the most important factors in this continual evolution was the identification of spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) as a separate disease entity from NEC.5 We have since learned that NEC and SIP have different short and long term outcomes; information that is indispensable when providing pre-surgical counseling to families.6
Warrant and Analysis

1. Epistemologists have expended a great deal of energy over the last three decades attempting to produce correct analyses of two central epistemological concepts: knowledge and justified belief. At the beginning of his recent impressive two-volume work on epistemology (Plantinga 1993a; 1993b), Alvin Plantinga informs his readers that his target analysandum is neither of these standard concepts, but rather, a related epistemic property he calls 'warrant'. Plantinga uses the term 'warrant' to refer to that property, 'whatever precisely it is, which makes the difference between knowledge and mere true belief' (1993a: 3). 'Warrant' is thus first functionally defined as a property (simple or complex) which fills a certain logical role, that property which, when substituted for 'X', correctly completes the following analysis schema:
Wind/diesel village-scale electric power systems: The performance and economic analysis of a simulated village system

Abstract This paper presents the results of an analytical study determining the energy and economic performance of battery storage type wind/diesel systems intended to supply the load of a village-scale system (grid isolated) in a developing country. It presents the development and details of the model for the simulation of the complete wind/diesel system including a generalized characterization of the local wind regime and the electrical load demands (including prioritization) of the village. The hour-by-hour simulation model is intended to simulate a typical one month period of system operation. Results from the energy flow simulation model are then input to a detailed economic model of the system. As summarized in the paper this benefit-cost model is used to assess the relative cost and socio-economic impact associated with the electrical generating system's configuration and performance. Representative case studies for several wind/diesel system options using the combined performance/economic simulation are presented to demonstrate the usefulness of the model.
Three‐dimensional P velocity structures of the lithosphere beneath Taiwan from the analysis of TAIGER and related seismic data sets

[1] The convergence of the Philippine Sea and the Eurasian plates in the Taiwan region led to the formation of a young collisional mountain between two subduction zones of nearly orthogonal polarities. The geological processes underlying the collision and its relation to subduction are the primary targets of TAIGER (Taiwan Integrated Geodynamic Research) project. Newly acquired passive and active sources data on land, supplemented by ocean bottom as well as permanent seismic network data, are used to derive a new 3-D tomographic velocity model. Using the 7.5 km/sec contour as a marker for crustal deformation, two trend-parallel “roots,” one under the Central Range with a maximum depth of 55 km and the other under the Coastal Range at 40 km, are found to extend from southern to central (∼24°N) Taiwan. Between the two roots and lying approximately beneath the Longitudinal Valley, the 7.5 km/sec contour rises to 25 km depth. In the upper mantle, a high velocity zone, east-dipping and its upper surface coinciding with a Wadati-Benioff zone in the south (∼22.8°N), becomes near vertical and ill-defined in the north (∼23.9°N). The crustal deformation as defined by the “roots” and the along-trend variations of the upper mantle structures under Taiwan provide key information for the orogeny. With the thickening of crust to 55 km or more processes such as eclogitization and delamination may come into play.
A ''Toolbox'' of Damping Treatments for Concrete Structures

The paper presents measures by which significant changes in the damping of concrete may be achieved. A variety of alterations in mix design were examined experimentally, and the most effective treatments involved the use of polymer admixtures. Significant changes in damping were associated with the use of several types of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) latex, ethyl-vinyl-acetate (EVA) latex, and styrene-acrylic ester (SAE), as well as a blend of SBR and partially-solidified vegetable gum. The polymer treatments resulted in frequency- and temperature-dependent damping properties.
mOntage: Building Domain Ontologies from Linked Open Data

Domain-specific ontologies have become integral components of numerous semantic- and knowledge-based applications. However, creating such ontologies and populating them with correct individuals is a difficult and time-consuming process. Recently, a vast amount of knowledge has become available as part of the Linking Open Data (LOD) project. In this paper, we introduce mOntage, an ontology design and population framework, which allows a domain expert to quickly define a domain ontology schema and then automatically populate the ontology with instances obtained from LOD selected sources. The classes and properties of the ontology being created can be defined either directly, in terms of existing LOD-available classes and properties, or can be newly constructed by the domain expert. Ontology instances are then retrieved from the LOD datasets by executing suitable SPARQL queries. We illustrate our framework by creating Cancer Treatment ontology in the area of biomedicine.
Assortative mating by white-crowned sparrows at song dialect boundaries

Abstract We tested the hypothesis that female Nuttall's white-crowned sparrows ( Zonotrichia leucophrys nuttalli ) mate assortatively with males from the same dialect population. Young birds of both sexes learn their natal dialect during an early sensitive period, and for females, this early experience may be the basis of future mate choice. A total of 32 female sparrows were mist-netted for three experiments at or near dialect boundaries just inside the Limantour, Drake and Clear dialect populations in Marin Co., California. The mates of all captured females sang the home dialect. All females were implanted with testosterone and maintained in captivity. Of the females which began to sing, 25 sang recognizable white-crowned sparrow songs. Of those 25 females, 24 had mated assortatively, thus supporting the assortative mating hypothesis.
A search-based bump-and-refit approach to incremental routing for ECO applications in FPGAs

Incremental physical CAD is encountered frequently in the so-called engineering change order (ECO) process in which design changes are made typically late in the design process in order to correct logical and/or technological problems in the circuit. Incremental routing is a significant part of an incremental physical design methodology. Typically after an ECO process, a small portion of the circuit netlist is changed, and in order to capitalize on the enormous resources and time already spent on routing the circuit it is desirable to reroute only the ECO-affected portion of the circuit, while minimizing any routing changes in the much larger unaffected part. Incremental rerouting also needs to be fast and to effectively use available routing resources. In this article, we develop a complete incremental routing methodology for FPGAs using a novel approach called bump and refit (BR faster and yields new nets with nearly 10p smaller lengths compared to previous incremental routers. Furthermore, BR. Experimental results for the VPR architecture are dominated by the significantly larger (in many cases, orders of magnitude more) number of nets left unrouted by Std and RR in one case, it is about 25 times faster than VPR used in the full rerouting mode. The relative slowness of B&R for the VPR architecture arises from the fact that we used i-to-i SBox's which forces each net to be routed on the same track, thus causing significantly more bumpings and searches for rearranged solutions compared to i-to-j SBox's where a net can be routed on different interconnected tracks to minimize the amount of bumpings (as we did for the ORCA). Since modern FPGAs generally have the latter type of SBox's, B&R would be fast as well as very effective on them.
Optical detection of breast tumors: a comparison of diagnostic performance of autofluorescence, diffuse reflectance and Raman spectroscopy

We report the results of a comparative evaluation of the diagnostic capabilities of autofluorescence, diffuse reflectance, and Raman spectroscopic approaches in differentiating the various types of breast tumors from normal breast tissues. Optical spectra (n=293) were acquired ex-vivo from a total of 75 breast tissue samples belonging to six distinct histopathologic categories: invasive ductal carcinoma, lobular carcinoma, ductal carcinoma in-situ, fibroadenoma, other benign tumors, and normal breast tissue. Autofluorescence, diffuse reflectance, and Raman spectra were measured from the same locations of a given tissue sample. A probability based multivariate statistical algorithm capable of direct multiclass classification was developed to analyze the diagnostic content of the optical spectra measured from the same set of breast tissue sites with these different techniques. The algorithm uses the theory of nonlinear Maximum Representation and Discrimination Feature (MRDF) for feature extraction, and the theory of Sparse Multinomial Logistic Regression (SMLR) for classification. The results of discrimination analyses reveal that the performance of Raman spectroscopy is superior to that of all others in classifying the breast tissues into respective histopathologic categories. The best classification accuracy was observed to be ~96%, 86%, 94%, 98%, 85%, and 100% for invasive ductal carcinoma, lobular carcinoma, ductal carcinoma in-situ, fibroadenoma, benign tumors and normal breast tissues, respectively, on the basis of leave-one-out cross validation, with the overall accuracy being ~97%.
Optical fingerprinting using polarisation contrast improvement

A novel technique to improve the quality and contrast of the surface image for optical fingerprinting is demonstrated using polarised light illumination and polarisation difference imaging.
The effect of process conditions on mechanical properties of laser‐sintered nylon

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to measure the effect of process conditions on mechanical properties of laser‐sintered nylon 12 (Duraform®) and to determine the range of conditions that provide consistent mechanical performance for additive manufacturing.Design/methodology/approach – Tensile test specimens were fabricated over a range of well‐characterized process conditions including laser power, laser speed, scan spacing, layer thickness, build orientation, and build position. Tensile modulus, yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and elongation‐at‐fracture were measured and related to process parameters.Findings – Tensile properties are strongly related to the amount of energy deposited during scanning. Strength and modulus approach their maximum values as the energy deposited exceeds the amount needed to fully melt the applied powder. Elongation‐at‐fracture does not reach its maximum until higher energy‐melt ratio. Performance of blends with reused powder matches that of virgin powder when ...
Cold Air Drainage on a Forested Mountain Slope

Abstract The nocturnal cold airflow on a small forested slope was studied in an attempt to relate the volume and velocity of flow to the net radiation balance of the slope. The hillside, with an approximately 30% grade, was about 400 m long and covered with an uneven-aged spruce-fir stand of about 20 m height. The location was near Fraser, Colo., at an altitude of 3000 m. The vertical profiles of wind speed and air temperature were measured at various points on a transect approximating a streamline segment down the hill for several nights. Net radiation was measured at the base of the transect. Canopy closure and tree heights and diameters were measured on sample plots along the transect. The vertical profiles of potential temperature deficit and wind speed at the various stations show approximate similarity when scaled by the height of the lowest inversion and by the average velocities and potential temperature deficits below that inversion. The latter varies in a nearly linear manner down the slope, and...
Distribution of Rovibrational Product States for the “Prompt” Reaction H + D2(v = 0, j = 0−4) → HD(v‘ = 1,2, j‘) + D near 1.6 eV Collision Energy†

We initiate the reaction H + D2(v = 0, j = 0−4) → HD (v‘ = 1,2, j‘) + D by photolyzing HBr in a 1:9 mixture of HBr and D2 expanded into vacuum through a pulsed nozzle. The same laser pulse that initiates the reaction also detects the HD(v‘, j‘) product in a state-specific manner via 2 + 1 REMPI. From the product ion signals we extract HD(v‘, j‘) state distributions for the v‘ = 1,2 manifolds that are compared to existing quasiclassical trajectory (QCT) calculations at similar energies. We find good agreement between calculation and experiment for the distribution of rotational product states within each vibrational manifold. The line-of-centers nearly elastic specular scattering (LOCNESS) model predicts an inverted parabolic distribution of HD(v‘, j‘red) products where j‘red = j‘/j‘max, and j‘max is the maximum predicted rotational state based on the angle-dependent reaction barrier of the H3 potential energy surface and previously measured product scattering angle distributions. Additionally, this model ...
Solar 3He-rich Events and Electron Acceleration in Two Stages

The heating, acceleration, and enhancement of electrons in solar 3He-rich events are studied according to the two-stage acceleration model proposed for the enhancement of 3He and heavy ions. First, electrostatic ion cyclotron instabilities destabilized by electron currents are theoretically and numerically investigated for a plasma consisting mainly of H, 4He, and electrons. Since the parallel phase velocities of the ion cyclotron waves are smaller than around the electron thermal velocity, electrons can have strong Landau resonance (?r-k?ve, ?=0) with the ion cyclotron waves. Here ?r and k? are, respectively, the real frequency and wavenumber parallel to the external magnetic field and ve, ? is the parallel electron velocity. Second, preferential heating of electrons by the ion cyclotron waves is studied through the quasi-linear theory. It is shown that H cyclotron waves are very efficient at heating electrons through the Landau resonance. Third, these preheated electrons can be further accelerated to high energies in the Fermi acceleration process. The abundance ratio (e/H) of high-energy electrons and protons is estimated. The abundance ratio is very high when electrons are sufficiently heated relative to protons and agrees well with observations. Therefore, the present two-stage model explains all aspects of acceleration (3He, electrons, and heavy ions) in flares in a self-consistent way.
A new look at an old task : Advantages and uses of sickness-conditioned learning in day-old chicks

Abstract In sickness-conditioned learning, animals become ill after sampling a new substance and develop an aversion that is expressed as avoidance of that substance in subsequent presentations. We examined the parameters of a one-trial, nongustatory, sickness-conditioned learning task in day-old chicks. Chicks pecked a bead and were made ill by IP injection of lithium chloride (LiCl). Both 0.5 and 1.0 M LiCl (0.1 ml) produced reliable avoidance at test. Chicks injected with LiCl between 15 and 45 min after training avoided the bead at test, whereas those injected within 5 or 10 min or more than 45 min after training did not. Avoidance was present until 24 h posttraining and absent after 48 h. Therefore, robust learning of the sickness-conditioned learning task occurs in one trial without the need for gustatory cues, and memory for the task lasts at least 24 h. Uses of this task to study memory formation in the day-old chick are discussed.
Nutritionally Associated Increased Carbon Dioxide Production: Excess Total Calories vs High Proportion of Carbohydrate Calories

This study compared carbon dioxide production (VCO2) from isocaloric nutritional regimens with varying concentration of carbohydrates with VCO2 from low and high caloric nutritional regimens with constant concentrations of carbohydrates (CHO) in 20 stable mechanically ventilated patients. Ten patients (group A) received total parental nutrition in the form of three isocaloric nutritional regimens; 40 percent CHO/40 percent fat/20 percent protein, 60 percent CHO/20 percent fat/20 percent protein, and 75 percent CHO/5 percent fat/20 percent protein. The VCO2 did not change with increasing CHO proportion; 205 +/- 35 ml/min, 203 +/- 25 ml/min, and 211 +/- 35 ml/min, respectively. Ten additional patients (group B) received three nutritional regimens at 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 times the estimated resting expenditure with a 60 percent CHO/20 percent fat/20 percent protein proportion. The VCO2 increased with increasing total calories, 181 +/- 23 ml/min, 211 +/- 38 ml/min, and 244 +/- 40 ml/min (p less than 0.05). High caloric feeding increases VCO2 in contrast to high percentage carbohydrate formulation. Thus, moderate caloric intake appears to be more important in avoiding nutritionally related increases in VCO2 in stable mechanically ventilated patients.
Graduated driver licensing and teen traffic fatalities

Over the last 8 years, nearly every state has introduced graduated driver licensing (GDL) for teens. These new licensing procedures require teen drivers to advance through distinct stages where they are subject to a variety of restrictions (e.g., adult supervision, daytime driving, passenger limits). In this study, we present evidence on whether these restrictions have been effective in reducing traffic fatalities among teens. These evaluations are based on state-by-year panel data from 1992 to 2002. We assess the reliability of our basic inferences in several ways including an examination of contemporaneous data for older cohorts who were not directly affected by these policies. Our results indicate that GDL regulations reduced traffic fatalities among 15-17-year-olds by at least 5.6%. We also find that the life-saving benefits of these regulations were plausibly related to their restrictiveness. And we find no evidence that these benefits were attenuated by an increase in fatality risks during the full-licensure period available to older teens.