cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A PROFILE OF THE COMMUNITY COLLEGE LITERATURE INSTRUCTOR

Data from a national survey sponsored by the Center for the Study of Community Colleges formed the basis for this study of the course aims and instructional practices of the two‐year college literature instructor. Lecture and discussion are the two most used teaching strategies, and nontraditional teaching strategies are nearly nonexistent. Approximately 60% of the literature teachers have between 3 and 10 years of classroom experience, but nearly 31% have taught more than 10 years. A majority of respondents indicated that aesthetic appreciation is their primary course aim. Type of degree held by respondents affected their answers on four items: (1) those with doctorates and 3 to 10 years of teaching experience lecture more than their nondoctorate‐holding counterparts, p = .0125; (2) nondoctorate holders with more than 10 years of experience use audiovisual aids more often than their doctorate‐holding colleagues, p = .0005; (3) nondoctorate holders with more than 10 years of experience use student oral pr...
Activation of a PTX-insensitive G protein is involved in histamine-induced recombinant M-channel modulation.

The M-type potassium current (IM) plays a dominant role in regulating membrane excitability and is modulated by many neurotransmitters. However, except in the case of bradykinin, the signal transduction pathways involved in M-channel modulation have not been fully elucidated. The channels underlying IM are produced by the coassembly of KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 channel subunits and can be expressed in heterologous systems where they can be modulated by several neurotransmitter receptors including histamine H1 receptors. In HEK293T cells, histamine acting via transiently expressed H1R produced a strong inhibition of recombinant M-channels but had no overt effects on the voltage dependence or voltage range of IM activation. In addition, the modulation of IM by histamine was not voltage sensitive, whereas channel gating, particularly deactivation, was accelerated by histamine. Non-hydrolysable guanine nucleotide analogues (GDP-β-S and GTP-γ-S) and pertussis toxin (PTX) treatment demonstrated the involvement of a PTX-insensitive G protein in the signal transduction pathway mediating histamine-induced IM modulation. Abrogation of the histamine-induced modulation of IM by expression of a C-terminal construct of phospholipase C (PLC-β1-ct), which buffers activated Gαq/11 subunits, implicates this G protein α subunit in the modulatory pathway. On the other hand, abrogation of the histamine-induced modulation of IM by expression of two constructs which buffer free βγ subunits, transducin (Gαt) and a C-terminal construct of a G protein receptor kinase (MAS-GRK2-ct), implicates βγ dimers in the modulatory pathway. These findings demonstrate that histamine modulates recombinant M-channels in HEK293T cells via a PTX-insensitive G protein, probably Gαq/11, in a similar manner to a number of other G protein-coupled receptors. However, histamine-induced IM modulation in HEK293T cells is novel in that βγ subunits in addition to Gαq/11 subunits appear to be involved in the modulation of KCNQ2/3 channel currents.
Time‐dependent fracture toughness measure for polyethylene

Because of their extraordinary cracking resistance, medium-density polyethylenes (MDPEs) do not fail in a brittle manner when tested with conventional fracture toughness procedures, but brittle fractures and J1c values can be obtained for these materials by utilizing fatigue loading. However, because brittle fracture in polyethylene is a result of low stresses (energy) applied over long periods of time, and since J1c neglects time, J1c is incapable of differentiating MDPEs on the basis of their fracture resistance. Thus, the power to fracture method, which incorporates both energy and time, has been developed. During increments of crack growth, the product of the potential energy and the number of elapsed cycles is used to calculate the power to fracture. Within limits that assure a similar failure mechanism, the power to fracture for a particular resin is constant despite varied fatigue conditions. The power to fracture is capable of differentiating between resins on the basis of their brittle cracking resistance. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Experimental demonstration of coherent optical polarization multiple-input-multiple-output

Electrical polarization-demultiplexing of 10 Gb/s BPSK signals is experimentally demonstrated without using optical polarization control. The signal processing is based on the coherent polarization multiple-input-multiple-output (PMIMO) architecture, which can manage various polarization-related issues in optical communications.
Aqua-Sim: An NS-2 based simulator for underwater sensor networks

In this paper, we present a network simulator, Aqua-Sim, for underwater sensor networks. Aqua-Sim is based on NS-2, one of the most widely used network simulators, and it follows object-oriented design style and all network entities are implemented as classes. Aqua-Sim effectively simulates the attenuation of underwater acoustic channels and the collision behaviors in long delay acoustic networks. Moreover, Aqua-Sim supports three-dimensional network deployment and provides a rich set of basic and advanced protocols. Through several case studies, we show that Aqua-Sim can "reproduce" the real world with high fidelity and flexibility.
Echocardiographic Assessment of Left Ventricular Mass and Systolic Function in Mice

The increasing use of transgenic mouse models for investigating the mechanisms of cardiac growth and function has made it important to develop noninvasive methods for assessing murine cardiac anatomy, size, and function. At present, murine cardiac mass can be determined only at necropsy. Left ventricular (LV) function can be assessed by use of various catheterization techniques, but these approaches are usually terminal procedures and provide no information about chamber anatomy and dimensions. Although transthoracic echocardiography has been used to study the LVs of rats and larger animals, the considerably smaller LV masses and somewhat faster heart rates of mice pose significant challenges to obtaining good-quality echocardiograms. In this study we tested the hypothesis that transthoracic echocardiography can image the murine LV as well as provide assessments of LV mass and function. Our results in a series of 33 mice, including normal, transgenic, and aortic-banded subgroups, demonstrate the capability of transthoracic two-dimensionally directed M-mode echocardiography in mice to (1) obtain good-quality images, (2) produce estimates of LV mass having good correlations with directly determined LV mass in normal mice, (3) detect LV hypertrophy noninvasively in different experimental models, and (4) identify impaired LV systolic function. Thus, echocardiography appears to be a promising approach for noninvasively assessing LV mass and function in mice.
Symmetry breaking and polarity establishment during mouse oocyte maturation

Mammalian oocyte meiosis encompasses two rounds of asymmetric divisions to generate a totipotent haploid egg and, as by-products, two small polar bodies. Two intracellular events, asymmetric spindle positioning and cortical polarization, are critical to such asymmetric divisions. Actin but not microtubule cytoskeleton has been known to be directly involved in both events. Recent work has revealed a positive feedback loop between chromosome-mediated cortical activation and the Arp2/3-orchestrated cytoplasmic streaming that moves chromosomes. This feedback loop not only maintains meiotic II spindle position during metaphase II arrest, but also brings about symmetry breaking during meiosis I. Prior to an Arp2/3-dependent phase of fast movement, meiotic I spindle experiences a slow and non-directional first phase of migration driven by a pushing force from Fmn2-mediated actin polymerization. In addition to illustrating these molecular mechanisms, mathematical simulations are presented to elucidate mechanical properties of actin-dependent force generation in this system.
Two-Level State Estimation for Multi-Area Power System

This paper presents a two-level state estimator for multi-area interconnected power system. In the first level of the algorithm, each area runs their own state estimator using the measurements obtained from its own area. In the second level of the algorithm, the central coordinator collects the state estimation results from the individual areas and coordinates them to get the multi-area state estimation with respect to a global reference. The use of measurements from synchronized phasor measurement units along with conventional measurements from the boundary network is justified and implemented to increase the accuracy of the two-level state estimator. The algorithm is implemented on the IEEE 30-bus and a 1896-bus real world system.
Integrating reliability into the design of fault-tolerant power electronics systems

This paper presents a methodology for integrating reliability considerations into the performance analysis carried out during the design of fault-tolerant power converters. The methodology relies on using a state-space representation of the power converter, based on averaging, similar to the ones used when analyzing linear time-invariant systems, and assumes an unknown-but-bounded uncertainty model for the converter uncontrolled inputs, such as load or variations in input voltage. The converter must be designed such that, for any uncontrolled input, the state variables remain within a region of the state space defined by performance requirements, e.g., output voltage tolerance or switch ratings. In the presence of component faults, and depending on the uncontrolled inputs, the converter may or may not meet performance requirements. Given the uncertain nature of these uncontrolled inputs, and for each particular fault, we introduce an analytical method to compute the probability that the performance requirements are met, which will define the reliability of the converter for each particular fault. By including these probabilities in a Markov reliability model, it is possible to obtain the overall converter reliability. The application of the methodology is illustrated with a case study of a fault-tolerant interleaved buck converter.
Combined climate- and prey-mediated range expansion of Humboldt squid (Dosidicus gigas), a large marine predator in the California Current System.

Climate-driven range shifts are ongoing in pelagic marine environments, and ecosystems must respond to combined effects of altered species distributions and environmental drivers. Hypoxic oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) in midwater environments are shoaling globally; this can affect distributions of species both geographically and vertically along with predator–prey dynamics. Humboldt (jumbo) squid (Dosidicus gigas) are highly migratory predators adapted to hypoxic conditions that may be deleterious to their competitors and predators. Consequently, OMZ shoaling may preferentially facilitate foraging opportunities for Humboldt squid. With two separate modeling approaches using unique, long-term data based on in situ observations of predator, prey, and environmental variables, our analyses suggest that Humboldt squid are indirectly affected by OMZ shoaling through effects on a primary food source, myctophid fishes. Our results suggest that this indirect linkage between hypoxia and foraging is an important driver of the ongoing range expansion of Humboldt squid in the northeastern Pacific Ocean.
Patency of vein graft anastomoses facilitated with the hexalon device.

Purpose. The Hexalon system (Castlewood Surgical, Inc, Dallas, TX) is a new device that facilitates a clampless, hand-sutured, vein-to-aorta anastomoses in no-touch off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery. Hexalon-facilitated anastomoses are structurally equivalent to traditional sutured anastomoses, but can be placed during off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery. It follows that these facilitated anastomoses would show similar patency rates to traditional sutured anastomoses. This is the first published data validating mid-term patency of Hexalon-facilitated anastomoses. Description. Evaluation of bypass grafts by cardiac computed tomography angiography is highly accurate and has increasingly been used to assess graft patency in anastomotic device feasibility trials. We studied 15 proximal Hexalon-facilitated anastomoses for patency in 10 patients at least 6 months after off-pump coronary bypass surgery using gated cardiac computed tomography angiography. Evaluation. All 15 facilitated anastomoses were patent. All 10 CT studies were of sufficient quality for accurate interpretation. Conclusions. The Hexalon system is a new and potentially valuable tool in advancing off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery.
Design of a higher harmonic RF system for the Advanced Light Source

Abstract We report on the design and fabrication of a third harmonic radiofrequency (RF) system for the Advanced Light Source (ALS) to be used for lengthening the bunch and increasing the Touschek-dominated beam lifetime. We plan to install five single-cell 1.5 GHz copper RF cavities in one-half of an ALS straight section with a predicted increase in the lifetime by a factor of 3. Each RF cell is designed to sustain a maximum voltage of 125 kV with a power dissipation of 5 kW. We present measurements made on an aluminum cavity model characterizing the RF properties of cavity such as the cavity R / Q and higher-order modes (HOMs). In particular, resonances in the cavity tuners were studied in order to avoid heating of the tuner bellows. Initial measurements of the copper cavities indicate a Q value of 21 000, resulting in a shunt impedance of 1.69 MΩ per cell.
Decidability and Constructivism

Occasionally, computer science college instructors are concerned with what to teach but not with the how to teach it. However, the application of the learning theory of constructivism in computer science education has a positive impact on student achievement. Moreover, research findings in this area suggest that effective constructivist lessons in computer science involved the design of cognitive models. This paper presents the design of a cognitive model that can be used in the teaching of the theory of computation. This model represents a framework notation for the construction of a decider Turing machine that will be the basis for decidabilty.
Sequential cloned gene integration in the yeast Kluyveromyces lactis

Two integrating vectors developed for use in Saccharomyces cerevisiae were successfully employed for cloned gene integration in the yeast Kluyveromyces lactis. A δ-integrating vector carrying the dominant selection marker neo allowed tandem integrations of a CUP1p-lacZ cassette into one or two chromosomal sites. A δ/UB-integrating vector, which contains a reusable selection cassette, enabled multiple rounds of integration and the sequential insertion of stable, dispersed copies of CUP1p-lacZ. Subsequent gene expression was closely correlated with integrated copy number illustrating the promise of this method for metabolic engineering in K. lactis. While both vectors contain an S. cerevisiae δ target sequence, the presence of δ-like elements in K. lactis has not been confirmed. Given the degree of illegitimate recombination in this yeast species, the insertions likely occurred at random locations in the chromosomes.
Reference point-dependent tradeoffs in intertemporal decision making

We agree with Ainslie’s general approach to intertemporal choices and self-control. However, we argue that a concept of “will” is superfluous in explaining tradeoffs between SS (smaller and sooner) and LL (larger and later) rewards in a framework of temporal goal setting and goal aggregation. We provide an alternative framework of reference point-dependent tradeoffs between SS and LL options. Ainslie brings human choices out of the realm of rational maximization of economic goods and into a psychological world of motivation, temptation, and risk preferences. We agree with his general approach to studying risky choices and self-control in a framework of temporal goal setting and goal aggregation. Ainslie suggests that “will” can be viewed as being the effect of aggregating goals over time to determine choice. This hypothesis affords some interesting reasons as to why people would prefer smaller and sooner options (e.g., cognitive deficits that make the aggregation of goals difficult; a foreshortened sense of the future; experience with unpredictable environments; self-efficacy in achieving long-term goals, etc.). However, we argue that in a framework of goal settings and goal aggregation, a concept of will as an explanatory construct is superfluous. We propose a new conceptual framework of reference point (goal or a minimum requirement) dependent tradeoffs between SS and LL rewards to account for intertemporal decision-making and self-control. Ainslie’s description of will as aggregated choice is a potentially rich and informative perspective. However, Ainslie’s conceptualization of the will is primarily descriptive, yet the construct of will in psychology is mainly promoted as explanatory. He defines “strong” will as the aggregation of future choice points to facilitate choosing LL over SS. He suggests that “strong” will manifests when the SS/LL choice is viewed as a class of choices and that choosing SS at one point in time is perceived as promoting SS choices at each successive time point. Ainslie states that individual differences in aggregation rules lead to adaptive or maladaptive consequences of the functioning of the will. What we do not know is how people develop variations of these aggregation rules, how some are able to view the aggregation of choices against SS as more reinforcing than the current choice for SS. The answer to that question provides explanatory power and yet this seems largely untouched in Ainslie’s conceptualization of the will.
Behavior Ecology Emerges from Behavior Modification Side-Steps toward a Nonspecial Profession

The position is presented that behavior modification is ready to expand its theoretical and professional base to one which can be described as behavioral ecology. At each level of operation, from individual therapy to broad social applications, behavioral change involves complex rearrangements in the systems surrounding the focal behavior. While symptom substitution in the psychodynamic sense may not be demonstrated, each therapeutic intervention produces a variety of effects both within the person and in his interpersonal network. At the broad social level, behavior modifiers who consider applications of their methods to such problems as population control also need to consider the complex systems effects in any decision to focus on a particular behavior.
Isotope fractionation associated with ammonium uptake by a marine bacterium

Bacteria can account for a large fraction of total NH,’ uptake in both pelagic and benthic marine environments. 15N natural abundance was examined to understand the effect of NH,’ uptake by bacteria on nitrogen isotope biogeochemistry. Isotope fractionation (E) for NH,’ uptake by the marine bacterium Vibrio harveyi changed from -4 to -277~ when cells were grown on 23-l 82 PM NH,+ and then from -27 to - 14Ya when the NH;’ concentration increased to 23.3 mM. Changes in fractionation correlated with a switch in the pathway of NH,’ uptake from membrane diffusion of NH, and assimilation catalyzed by glutamate dehydrogcnase at millimolar NH,’ to active ammonium transport (Amt) and assimilation catalyzed by glutamine synthetase (GS) at micromolar NH,+. This transition occurred between 0.1 and I mM NH,+. Within this concentration range, cellular N demand was no longer supported by Fickian diffusion of NH:, and Amt activity increased. The isotope fractionation of whole cells with the highest GS activity (E = -4%) and that measured for the GS-catalyzed reaction in vitro (E = - 8%; pH = 7.1) differed by 5?&, which suggests that the GS reaction was not the rate-limiting step during NH,’ uptake. Isotope fractionation associated with NH,’ uptake by marine bacteria appears to depend on the membrane transport mechanism and the ammonium assimilation enzymes. Depending on NH, I- concentrations, marine bacteria using NH, + for growth may partly account for variation in the isotope composition of NH, k and particulate organic N in the water column and sediments of marine environments.
Mechanisms of protein-folding diseases at a glance

For a protein to function appropriately, it must first achieve its proper conformation and location within the crowded environment inside the cell. Multiple chaperone systems are required to fold proteins correctly. In addition, degradation pathways participate by destroying improperly folded proteins. The intricacy of this multisystem process provides many opportunities for error. Furthermore, mutations cause misfolded, nonfunctional forms of proteins to accumulate. As a result, many pathological conditions are fundamentally rooted in the protein-folding problem that all cells must solve to maintain their function and integrity. Here, to illustrate the breadth of this phenomenon, we describe five examples of protein-misfolding events that can lead to disease: improper degradation, mislocalization, dominant-negative mutations, structural alterations that establish novel toxic functions, and amyloid accumulation. In each case, we will highlight current therapeutic options for battling such diseases.
Service management for multi-operator heterogeneous networks

The advent of heterogeneous radio networks which combined under the "Beyond 3G" vision can offer ubiquitous services demands an integrated management approach. We address in this paper an integrated management approach for end-to-end service management over heterogeneous networks in a multi-operator environment. We show how to integrate our solution into the larger context of Web based management, thus allowing the easy integration into already existing management platforms.
Biomedical Potential of a Zirconium-Based Bulk Metallic Glass

Due to their unique mechanical properties, bulk metallic glasses (BMG) have potential for biomedical applications. Biocompatibility and corrosion tests of a zirconium-based BMG showed comparable behavior to current implant alloys. Mechanical properties, such as an elastic limit of 2and a yield strength of 1700 MPa, are significantly higher than current implant alloys. In addition, it was found that medical MRI images of BMG, possibly due to the amorphous structure, are significantly better than other alloys even though the reference alloy contains 14.6 at.Ni. Nickel-free compositions also retained similar glass forming characteristics and showed even better MRI images. Edge holding for cutting tool applications was demonstrated. Fatigue tests were performed in simulated body conditions and directly compared to Ti-6 Al-4 V. While one specimen failed at more than 3,000,000 cycles at 500 MPa, there was much scatter in the data. Further concentration on processing issues to produce pore free material is needed to produce reliable materialfor prototype development. Potential uses, especially associated with an interventional MRI for MRI guided surgeries, will be discussed.
Signal beating elimination using single-mode fiber to multimode fiber coupling

We experimentally demonstrate an all-passive fiber-based approach to prevent undesired beating during signal merging and detection. Beating occurs when optical signals of very close or the same wavelength are combined at a coupler and detected using a photodetector. Our approach is based on signal coupling from several single-mode fibers to a single piece of multimode fiber without interference, such that different signals propagate in different modes with different spatial positions inside the multimode fiber. We have investigated signal beating when the signals are coherent, partially coherent, or incoherent with each other. The measured results for single-mode to multimode coupling show signal beating is substantially reduced, resulting in widely opened eye diagrams and error-free bit error rate performance.
Fault-tolerant control of fluid dynamic systems via coordinated feedback and switching

Abstract This work addresses the problem of designing a fault-tolerant control system for fluid dynamic systems modeled by highly-dissipative partial differential equations (PDEs) with constrained control actuators. The proposed approach is predicated upon the idea of coordinating feedback controller synthesis and switching between multiple, spatially-distributed control actuator configurations. Using appropriate finite-dimensional approximations of the PDE system, a stabilizing feedback controller is designed for a given actuator configuration, and an explicit characterization of the constrained stability region is obtained. Switching laws are then derived, on the basis of these stability regions, to orchestrate the switching between the control actuator configurations, in a way that guarantees constraint satisfaction and preserves closed-loop stability of the infinite-dimensional system in the event of actuator failures. The results are demonstrated through an application of the proposed methodology to the suppression of wave formation in falling liquid films via the stabilization of the zero solution of the one-dimensional Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equation (KSE), with periodic boundary conditions, subject to actuator constraints and failures.
Ultraviolet‐curable, abrasion‐resistant, and weatherable coatings with improved adhesion

A UV-curable coating for plastics that is abrasion resistant and weatherable is described. The coating consists of colloidal silica functionalized with methacryloxypropyltrimethoxy-silane (MAPTMS) in a matrix of acrylic monomers. The formulation employs diethoxyacetophenone (DEAP) as a photoinitiator and a sulfonated benzotriazole as a UV absorber. It has been found that the adhesion of the coating depends greatly on the type of acrylic monomers used and the application parameters. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis shows that improved adhesion is due to the formation of an interpenetrating layer between coating and substrate.
A Description of the CSU-CHILL National Radar Facility

The subject of this paper is the Colorado State University‐University of Chicago‐Illinois State Water Survey (CSU‐CHILL) National Radar Facility’s S-band polarimetric research radar. Key features of this system include polarization agility (provided by the dual-transmitter, dual-receiver design), a recently updated signal processor, and a low (234 dB, two way) integrated cross-polar ratio (ICPR 2) antenna system. After reviewing the technical description of the radar, the authors present a new differential reflectivity ( ZDR) calibration technique and data examples collected in different polarization modes. Although the CSU‐CHILL radar is transportable, it can also be operated in a dual-Doppler configuration with the CSU‐Pawnee radar, an 11-cm Doppler radar system situated 48 km north of the CSU‐CHILL Greeley field site. Used together, these radars provide three-dimensional kinematic and hydrometeor information in precipitating cloud systems.
Roles of Surface Antigens on Malaria-Infected Red Blood Cells in Evasion of Immunity

The life cycle of malaria parasites is extremely complex, involving multiple stages in the invertebrate vector and vertebrate host. However, the clinical manifestations of this disease in humans, and its mortality, are solely attributable to the asexual blood stages of the parasite. Furthermore, the blood stages are the forms of the parasite most susceptible to naturally acquired immunity. This chapter focuses on the surface antigens of infected red blood cells, their potential roles in inducing parasiticidal immune responses upon infection or immunization, their structure when known, and most importantly, recently obtained evidence that some of these surface antigens are involved in different mechanisms for evasion of host-protective immunity. Sections I-IV review the published literature and our own recent results implicating new surface antigens on infected cells as targets of antibody-dependent parasiticidal immune responses. Section V deals with the established capacity of malaria parasites to evade parasiticidal immunity and reviews the range of ways, both theoretical and indicated by experiment, in which this might be achieved Finally, Sections VI and VII describe in detail two mechanisms for parasite evasion of immunity, with emphasis on recent experimental results from this laboratory. It is beyond the scope of this chapter to review mechanisms of malarial immunity not involving new antigens on infected erythrocytes. Excellent descriptions of alternative mechanisms are given elsewhere(K.N. Brown, 1976; Cohen, 1979; Kreier and Green, 1980; McGregor, 1981; Allison, 1981; Jayawardena, 1981).
FORMALIZATION OF DIESEL ENGINE OPERATION CONSIDERING THE EVALUATION OF VELOCITY DURING THE COMBUSTION PROCESSES

Purpose . Under modern conditions the applying methods and design models as well as the evaluation of the operational characteristics of diesel engines do not completely take into consideration the specifics of the combustion processes. In part, such situation is characterized by the complexity of considering of varied by its nature processes that haven’t been completely investigated. In this context it is necessary to find the new methods and models which would provide relatively simple solutions through the use of integrated factors based on the analysis of parameters of diesel engines. Methodology . The proposed algorithms for the estimating of the combustion process in the form of volumetric and linear velocities is based on the well-known parameters of power and mean effective pressure and allows to compare the efficiency of their behavior in various versions of diesel engines. Findings . The author specified that the volumetric / linear velocity ratio is characterized by some strength and depends on the geometric dimensions of the cylinder-piston group. Due to the assumptions it has become possible to consider the operation of a diesel engine as a system comprising: 1) the subsystem that provides the possibility of obtaining the thermal energy; 2) the subsystem providing the thermal energy transformation; 3) the subsystem that provides the necessary diesel engine power depending on terms of combustion of air-fuel mixture. Originality . The author of the paper proposed the indices of volumetric and linear combustion velocity of air-fuel mixture in the engine cylinder, that allow to obtain the comparative value in different modifications taking into account the possible choice of optimum ratio. Practical value . The usage of indices of volumetric and linear velocities of the combustion processes in the engine cylinder combined with a mathematical model will simplify the method of diesels calculating. Parametric indices of the mentioned velocities will provide the following effective researches in diesel engine design as well as the evaluation of their loading during the operation.
Is Organic Agriculture a Viable Strategy in Contexts of Rapid Agrarian Transition? Evidence from Cambodia

This paper draws on evidence from a field study of three organic agriculture development projects in Cambodia to look critically at the pursuit of organic agriculture as a rural development strategy in a context of rapid agrarian transition. I find that organic agriculture is a successful strategy for some households to improve the viability of land-based livelihoods as part of broader livelihood strategies, particularly within projects most closely aligned with an agroecological understanding valuing diversity and farmer knowledge. However, there are inherent contradictions in prescribing northern, market driven notions of farming success into the very different cultural and ecological settings of the Global South, and certification requirements, resource constraints and labor requirements can exclude some farmers. I argue that analysis of organic-farming as a rural development strategy needs to understand not just the direct economic returns, for the non-economic aspects, the broader socio-political contexts of uneven agrarian transition, and the ideology and practices of development agencies have a large bearing on the poverty reduction potential of organic farming.
Analysis on sentinel surveillance results of HIV among drug abusers in Dazhou City of Sichuan Province,2009-2013

Objective To provide evidence for the government to formulate AIDS prevention and control strategies,we investigated the infection status and trends in high risk behaviors of human immunodeficiency virus( HIV),Treponema pallidum( TP) and hepatitis C virus( HCV). Methods Drug abusers were analyzed with cross-sectional survey in accordance with the "National HIV Sentinel Surveillance Program"requirement. Results The total monitored objects in the past 5 years included 5 384 people with mean age of 35. 08 ± 7. 02 years old. Most of them were young males. The rate of awareness AIDS related knowledge and the proportion of commercial sexual behavior with condom increased trend.The ratios of ever injecting drug abuser and needle sharing,injecting drug abuser and needle sharing in the most recently month all presented downward trend. Drug abuser HIV detection rate fluctuated in 18. 90%-7. 98%. TP detection rate fluctuated in 2. 49%-8. 42%. HCV detection rate fluctuated in 59. 97%-43. 30%. Conclusions HIV,TP,HCV infections in drug users are still serious in Dazhou City. Coinfection should be paid more attention. Prevention and control of hepatitis C should be included in the content of health education among drug users. In addition,there is a need to increase intervention on safe injection and safe sex among female addicts.
An Amendable Proportional Navigation Law for Intercepting Warhead

In this paper, first the new issues faced with in designing the guidance law and the shortcomings existing in the proportional navigation are analyzed, and then, to improve the performance of the PN, the information of the target maneuver acceleration of the interceptor is introduced to amending the classical proportional navigation law, and the parameters of the amended guidance law are optimized. Simulation results show that the new guidance law provides significant performance improvements over the commonly used classical proportional navigation law, and the overload distribution over the trajectory is reasonable.
Optimal Allocation of Distributed Wind Generation Based on Firefly Algorithm

In view of the randomness of distributed wind generation( DWG) and uncertainties of wind power load,this paper proposes a DWG optimal allocation model aiming at minimizing the annual overall cost. Thereby,the nodal voltage and branch flow constraints are described in the form of chance constrained programming,and are examined by of stochastic power flow based on Latin Hypercube Sampling-Monte Carlo Simulation( LHS-MCS). Firefly algorithm is adopted to solve the model. Results of IEEE 33 bus test system have confirmed the rationality of the proposed model. Its efficiency has been proved by the comparison with Genetic Algorithm( GA).
ANALYSIS ON COOLING EFFECT OF TWO-STAGE SLITLESS MOLD FOR SOFT-CONTACT ELECTROMAGNETIC CONTINUOUS CASTING

Heat transfer in two-stage slitless mold for soft-contact electromagnetic continuous casting and thickness of initial solidified shell were analyzed through numerical simulation method. The results showed that the thickness of initial solidified shell in two-stage mold was thinner about 0.4 mm than that in conventional mold.The temperature of strand surface increased about 2.5 K and the initial solidified point descended about 9 mm in two-stage mold.These effects were good to improve the surface quality of strand.The thickness of initial solidified shell descended little with increasing the length of top half of mold,resulting in serious scouring of molten metal on the connection of two-stage mold.The length of 120 mm was thought to be the better parameter to meet the requirement of continuous casting industrial production.In the present research condition,the heat-resisting strength on two-stage mold wall satisfied also the requirement of safe production.
Folate receptor-targeted liposomes as possible delivery vehicles for boron neutron capture therapy.

Background: The folate receptor is amplified in a variety of human tumors including over 90% of ovarian carcinoma. FR-targeted liposomes have previously been used by us to selectively deliver entrapped boron-containing compounds to tumor cells for neutron capture therapy (NCT). In the present study we have evaluated the delivery of Na 3 (B 20 H 17 NH 3 ), which has been loaded into FR-targeted liposomes, in mice bearing xenograft implants of FR (+) KB subcutaneous tumor. Materials and Methods: Na 3 (B 20 H 17 NH 3 ) was passively entrapped into FR-targeted liposomes, which were administered intravenously into nude mice bearing s.c. implants of the FR(+) human oral carcinoma KB cell line. Normal and tumor boron content was measured by direct current plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy. Results: Mice that received FR-targeted liposomes containing boron showed the highest tumor boron levels at 24 hours (6.1 μg/g) and tumor/blood boron ratios continued to rise for up to 120 hours. Conclusion: Boron delivery via FR-targeted liposomes is feasible and potentially can improve tumor uptake compared to non-targeted liposomes, and may improve cellular and subcellular localization.
The effect of hysteroscopy on the incidence of meconium aspiration in high risk obstetric patient

Four hundred amnioscopies were performed from April to December 1984 using a 6 mm contact hysteroscope to detect the presence of intrauterine meconium on 360 high risk obstetric patients. During that eight month period, out of 400 clinic patients delivered, 25 cases of intrauterine meconium were identified. Two infants had meconium aspiration. In comparable periods of 1982 and 1983, 320-356 clinic patients were delivered. Ten-twelve infants had meconium aspiration in their respective groups. The technique of contact hysteroscopy was demonstrated to be easy to perform with few, if any, complications.
Deborah's Voice: The Role of Women in Sexual Assault Cases at the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia†

Objectives To assess the impact of the gender of judges, prosecution attorneys, and defense lawyers on sentencing decisions at the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY). Methods We use regression modeling of all sentences handed down by the ICTY and test for the impact of gender with direct measures of the numbers and percentages of female actors and through interactive terms to assess whether there is a gender impact on sexual violence cases. Results The results demonstrate that higher levels of female representation in both the prosecution and defense teams are statistically significant predictors of ICTY sentencing. Conclusions Gender exercises an important impact on ICTY sentencing, and our results show that concern for female representation in international organizations is appropriate and worthy of further study.
The interaction of hydrocortisone and thyroxine during fetal adipose tissue differentiation : CCAAT enhancing binding protein expression and capillary cytodifferentiation

Late-term fetal pigs from genetically obese dams have elevated levels of thyroid hormones and glucocorticoids, depressed levels of GH, larger fat cells and elevated lipogenesis than do fetal pigs from lean dams. We investigated the influence of elevated levels of thyroid hormones and glucocorticoids per se on adipose tissue traits by chronically treating hypophysectomized (hypox; d 70) fetal pigs between d 90 and 105 of gestation with either thyroxine (T 4 ), hydrocortisone (HC), or the combination of T 4 + HC. Treatment with T 4 and T 4 + HC increased serum T 4 and IGF-I levels and enhanced skin and hair development. Treatment with HC and T 4 + HC increased serum HC levels, fat cell size, and inner subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness. Quantitative analysis of stained adipose tissue sections indicated that T 4 + HC treatment increased lipid accretion and fat cell cluster development more than did either hormone alone. The T 4 + HC markedly increased apparent fat cell number, because there was only a 19% increase in fat cell size. A hypox-induced deficit in cytodifferentiation of capillaries associated with adipocytes was not influenced by T 4 , but was partially normalized by treatment with HC and T 4 + HC. Immunocytochemical and Western blot analyses showed no influence of hormonal treatment on expression of three CCAAT enhancing binding protein (C/EBP) isoforms. However, expression of C/EBPδ in adipose tissue was markedly reduced in control fetal pigs compared with hypox fetal pigs. These studies indicate that concurrent action of glucocorticoids and thyroid hormones may be the critical aspect of endocrine regulation of fetal adipogenesis.
Impact of bounded delays on resource consumption in VoIP networks

This paper presents a closed form solution relating the impact of bounding delays on throughput in VoIP networks. Traffic that exceeds the delay threshold is treated as lost throughput. The results addressed can be used in scaling resources in a VoIP network for different thresholds of acceptable delays. Both single and multiple switching points are addressed.
The Effects of Visual Input on Scoring a Speaking Achievement Test

In the assessment of aural skills of second language learners, the study of the inclusion of visual stimuli has almost exclusively been conducted in the context of listening assessment. While the inclusion of contextual information in test input has been advocated for by numerous researchers (Ockey, 2010), little has been said regarding the scoring of speaking tests, which also involves raters’ listening comprehension. This study is designed to identify the possible variation in the scoring of speaking test performance when the speech samples to be scored are presented in either audio-only or audio-visual format. A group of raters were first asked to score a set of audio-only speech samples from an achievement speaking test consisting of one monologic task through an online platform. Weeks later, they scored the same samples presented in audio-visual format. Scores from both scoring sessions were compared. Findings suggest that the inclusion of visual stimuli may not result in significant effects on assigned scores or internal consistency. Yet, given the raters’ reported preference of using the audio-visual format, the study results call for further exploration of the positive effects of delivery methods on rater effect.
Role of Basal Forebrain in Nicotine Alcohol Co-abuse

Abstract Alcohol and nicotine (cigarette smoking) are two highly co-abused drugs. However, the neurobiological mechanism of this co-abuse is unknown. The prevailing hypotheses suggest that when consumed together, these drugs enhance each other's rewarding/positive effects while reducing aversive effects. Moreover, their high comorbidity also indicates that they may act through common substrate(s). The corticopetal basal forebrain is implicated in the regulation of cortical desynchronization, attention, cognition, and alcohol-induced sleepiness. The α4β2 and α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors subtypes, implicated in alcohol and nicotine addiction, are predominantly expressed in the basal forebrain. Recently, in 2014, we have observed that nicotine acts via the basal forebrain to suppress negative effects of alcohol while enhancing positive/rewarding effects resulting in increased alcohol consumption. Based on these studies, we suggest that the basal forebrain is a key anatomical substrate mediating the effects of nicotine and alcohol co-use.
Detector with internal gain for short-wave infrared ranging applications

Highly sensitive photon detectors are regarded as the key enabling elements in many applications. Due to the low photon energy at the short-wave infrared (SWIR), photon detection and imaging at this band are very challenging. As such, many efforts in photon detector research are directed toward improving the performance of the photon detectors operating in this wavelength range. To solve these problems, we have developed an electron-injection (EI) technique. The significance of this detection mechanism is that it can provide both high efficiency and high sensitivity at room temperature, a condition that is very difficult to achieve in conventional SWIR detectors. An EI detector offers an overall system-level sensitivity enhancement due to a feedback stabilized internal avalanche-free gain. Devices exhibit an excess noise of unity, operate in linear mode, require bias voltage of a few volts, and have a cutoff wavelength of 1700 nm. We review the material system, operating principle, and development of EI detectors. The shortcomings of the first-generation devices were addressed in the second-generation detectors. Measurement on second-generation devices showed a high-speed response of ∼6 ns rise time, low jitter of less than 20 ps, high amplification of more than 2000 (at optical power levels larger than a few nW), unity excess noise factor, and low leakage current (amplified dark current ∼10 nA at a bias voltage of −3 V and at room temperature. These characteristics make EI detectors a good candidate for high-resolution flash light detection and ranging (LiDAR) applications with millimeter scale depth resolution at longer ranges compared with conventional p-i-n diodes. Based on our experimentally measured device characteristics, we compare the performance of the EI detector with commercially available linear mode InGaAs avalanche photodiode (APD) as well as a p-i-n diode using a theoretical model. Flash LiDAR images obtained by our model show that the EI detector array achieves better resolution with higher signal-to-noise compared with both the InGaAs APD and the p-i-n array (of 100×100 elements). We have designed a laboratory setup with a receiver optics aperture diameter of 3 mm that allows an EI detector (with 30-μm absorber diameter) to be used for long-range LiDAR imaging with subcentimeter resolution.
The Social Reorganization of Time: The “Great Speedup” and the Transformation of Time and Work Discipline

U.S. workers labor longer hours, on average, than do their counterparts in most other countries. They also work longer than previous generations of U.S. workers. As a result, many people feel as th...
Detecting molecular hydrogen on Enceladus.

Planetary bodies with global oceans are prime targets in the search for life beyond Earth owing to the essential role of liquid water in biochemical reactions that sustain living organisms. In addition to water, life requires energy and a source of essential chemical elements (C, H, N, O, P, and S). Although there is compelling evidence for liquid water and many of the essential elements on several ice-covered planetary bodies in our solar system and beyond, direct observation of energy sources capable of fueling life has, to this point, remained elusive. On page [155][1] of this issue, Waite et al. ( 1 ) report that recent flybys of the ice-covered saturnian moon Enceladus by the Cassini spacecraft reveal the presence of molecular hydrogen (H2) in jets of vapor and particles ejected from a liquid water ocean through cracks in the ice shell. The abundance of H2 along with previously observed carbonate species suggests a state of chemical disequilibria in the Enceladus ocean that represents a chemical energy source capable of supporting life. [1]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.aai8703