cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Incidence of acute diarrheal illness in Chinese communities: a meta-analysis.

Acute diarrheal illness (ADI) is an important public health problem worldwide. We estimated the morbidity, distribution, and burden of self-reported ADI in China over the last three decades. We used the keywords “diarrhea and morbidity” to identify studies published in Chinese by searching CNKI, WANFANG, Chongqing VIP, and SinoMed. Studies published in English were identified using the keywords “diarrhea, morbidity, and China” to search Pubmed/Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library Data. All articles published before Dec 31, 2014 were included in the search. Data were extracted and the pooled 2-week incidence rate of ADI was calculated using the fixed-effects or random-effects model according to statistical testing for homogeneity. The incidences of each subgroup (organized by age, location, study period) were also calculated. Publication bias was examined using Begg’s test. Data manipulation and statistical analyses were undertaken using R-2.15.1 software. We estimated that the pooled 2-week prevalence of ADI in China was 2.04% (95% CI: 1.48–2.79) and that the corresponding incidence rate was 0.53 (95% CI: 0.38–0.73) episodes per person-year. The ADI rate was highest among children aged < 5 years (1.43 episodes per person-year), and it was slightly higher in males than in females (0.58 vs 0.52 episodes per person-year). From 1980 to 2012, there was a significant decrease in the incidence of ADI, from 0.82 to 0.48 episodes per person-year, but the ADI incidence was consistent over the last two decades. Additionally, the incidence of ADI was higher in rural areas and in west China and peaked in the summer months. The current study indicates that ADI caused a substantial disease burden in China in the last 30 years, especially in rural areas and west China, where sanitation conditions were relatively poor. These findings highlight the importance of further investigation of the specific causes of and effective preventive measures for ADI.
Entamoeba histolytica infection in humans, chimpanzees and baboons in the Greater Gombe Ecosystem, Tanzania

Entamoeba histolytica is an enteric parasite that infects approximately 50 million people worldwide. Although E. histolytica is a zoonotic parasite that has the potential to infect nonhuman primates, such transmission is poorly understood. Consequently, this study examined whether E. histolytica is present among humans, chimpanzees and baboons living in the Greater Gombe Ecosystem (GGE), Tanzania. The primary aims were to determine patterns of E. histolytica infection in a system with human-nonhuman primate overlap and to test associations between infection status and potential risk factors of disease. Entamoeba spp. occurred in 60.3% of human, 65.6% of chimpanzee and 88.6% of baboon samples. Entamoeba histolytica occurred in 12.1% of human, 34.1% of chimpanzee and 10.9% of baboon samples. Human E. histolytica infection was associated with gastrointestinal symptoms. This was the first study to confirm the presence of E. histolytica in the GGE. The high sample prevalence of E. histolytica in three sympatric primates suggests that zoonotic transmission is possible and stresses the need for further phylogenetic studies. Interventions targeting better sanitation and hygiene practices for humans living in the GGE can help prevent E. histolytica infection in humans, while also protecting the endangered chimpanzees and other primates in this region.
Nuclear export mechanisms of circular RNAs: size does matter.

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are broadly classified as house-keeping and regulatory ncRNAs. The house keeping ncRNAs include the ribosomal RNA, transfer RNA, small nuclear RNA and snoRNA. While the regulatory ncRNA classification is based on length and include shorter microRNAs, snRNAs, piRNAs or the long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) that are greater than 200 nucleotides (nt) (1).
Absolute cross section for Si 2 + ( 3 s 2 1 S → 3 s 3 p 1 P ) electron-impact excitation

We have measured the absolute cross section for electron-impact excitation (EIE) of ${\mathrm{Si}}^{2+}{(3s}^{2}{}^{1}\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{S}3s3p{}^{1}P)$ from energies below threshold to 11 eV above. A beams modulation technique with inclined electron and ion beams was used. Radiation at 120.7 nm from the excited ions was detected using an absolutely calibrated optical system. The fractional population of the ${\mathrm{Si}}^{2+}(3s3p{}^{3}{P}^{o})$ metastable state in the incident ion beam was determined to be $0.210\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.018$ $(1.65\ensuremath{\sigma}).$ The data have been corrected for contributions to the signal from radiative decay following excitation from the metastable state to $3s3p{}^{1}P$ and ${3p}^{2}{}^{3}P,$ and excitation from the ground state to levels above the $3s3p{}^{1}P$ level. The experimental $0.56\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.08\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{eV}$ energy spread allowed us to resolve complex resonance structure throughout the studied energy range. At the reported $\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}14%$ total experimental uncertainty level $(1.65\ensuremath{\sigma}),$ the measured structure and absolute scale of the cross section are in good agreement with 12-state close-coupling R-matrix calculations.
Residual impedance effect on emulated bioimpedance measurements using Keysight E4990A precision impedance analyzer

Abstract The passive electrical properties of a biological tissue, often referred to as the tissue bioimpedance, can be measured using a range of commercially available impedance analyzers. Using commercially available equipment reduces the time to collect measurements and does not require investigators to have the necessary expertise to design and fabricate custom equipment. However, the test configurations to collect the bioimpedance during tissue measurements introduces residual impedances resulting from the tissue/electrode interface and electrode placements. The presence of these residual impedances can influence the accuracy of the collected measurements and impact the range of frequencies that can be reliably measured. This work presents a systematic study of the effect of residual impedances ranging from 1 Ω to 10 kΩ on the accuracy of impedance measurements representative of bioimpedance applications using a Keysight E4990A impedance analyzer. Additionally, experimental data from measurements of a 2R-C model that emulates a biological tissue impedance displays
Time for a Changing of Guard: From Minimally Invasive Surgery to Endoscopic Drainage for Management of Pancreatic Walled-off Necrosis.

Background and Aims:Endoscopic drainage (ED) with or without necrosectomy, and minimally invasive surgical necrosectomy (MISN) have been increasingly utilized for treatment of symptomatic sterile and infected pancreatic walled-off necrosis (WON). We conducted this systematic review to compare the sa
Using GRASP Approach and Path Relinking to Minimize Total Number of Tardy Jobs on a Single Batch Processing Machine

This paper considers the problem of scheduling a single batch processing machine such that the total number of tardy jobs is minimized. The machine can simultaneously process several jobs as a batch as long as the machine capacity is not violated. The batch processing time is equal to the largest processing time among those jobs in the batch. Two decisions are made to schedule jobs on the batch processing machine, namely grouping jobs to form batches and sequencing the batches on the machines. Both the decisions are interdependent as the composition of the batch affects the processing time of the batch. The problem under study is NP-hard. Consequently, solving a mathematical formulation to find an optimal solution is computationally intensive. A Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure (GRASP) is proposed to solve the problem under study with the assumption of arbitrary job sizes, arbitrary processing times and arbitrary due dates. A novel construction phase for the GRASP approach is proposed to improve the solution quality. In addition, a path relinking procedure is proposed for solving large-sized problems effectively. The performance of the proposed GRASP approach is evaluated by comparing its results to a commercial solver (which was used to solve the mathematical model) and a construction heuristic. Experimental studies suggest that the solution obtained from the GRASP approach is superior compared to the commercial solver and the construction heuristic.
CHAPTER 13:MicroRNA-specific Argonaute 2 Protein Inhibitors and AGO Loading Inhibitors

Small non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in virtually all physiological processes and deregulated in many human diseases. They exert their gene silencing function through association with Argonaute (AGO) proteins in the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). AGO proteins have been found to be deregulated in human diseases, including cancer, and are thus analogous to miRNAs as attractive therapeutic targets. The best known and most successful miRNA therapeutic, miravirsen, which was successfully evaluated in phase 2 clinical trials for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, is a specific miR-122 inhibitor with a dual function of blocking AGO2 inhibition, supporting the potential of AGO-based therapeutics for the treatment of human diseases. This chapter first discusses the miRNA biogenesis process and the Argonaute family of proteins (AGO). Next, the mechanisms of AGO-mediated gene silencing are explained. The final section describes miRNA-based therapeutics, where we focus on therapeutic strategies of targeting AGO proteins for the treatment of human diseases, with an emphasis on cancer.
Enhanced Recovery after Surgery in Breast Reconstruction: A Systematic Review.

Background Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) principles have received focused attention in breast reconstruction. Many protocols have been described in the literature for both autologous and alloplastic reconstruction. This systematic review serves to better characterize successful ERAS protocols described in the literature for potential ease of adoption at institutions desiring implementation. Methods A systematic review of ERAS protocols for autologous and alloplastic breast reconstruction was conducted using Medline, the Cochrane Database, and Web of Science. Results Eleven cohort studies evaluating ERAS protocols for autologous (n = 8) and alloplastic (n = 3) breast reconstruction were included for review. The majority compared with a retrospective cohort of traditional perioperative care. All studies described the full spectrum of implemented ERAS protocols including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases of care. Most frequently reported significant outcomes were reduced length of stay and opioid use with ERAS implementation. No significant change in major complication or readmission rate was demonstrated. Conclusion Based on this systematic review, several core elements that make up a successful perioperative enhanced recovery protocol for breast reconstruction have been identified. Elements include patient counseling and education, limited preoperative fasting, appropriate thromboprophylaxis and antibiotic prophylaxis dependent on reconstructive method, preoperative antiemetics, multimodal analgesia and use of local anesthetic, goal-directed intravenous fluid management, prompt removal of drains and catheters, early diet advancement, and encouragement of ambulation postoperatively. Implementation of ERAS protocols in both autologous and alloplastic breast reconstruction can positively enhance patient experience and improve outcomes by reducing length of stay and opioid use, without compromising successful reconstructive outcomes.
Data-Centric Video for Mixed Reality

Network video streaming abstractions tend to replicate the paradigms of hardwired video dating back to analog broadcast. With IP video distribution becoming increasingly realistic for a variety of low-latency applications, this paper looks ahead to a data-centric architecture for video that can provide a superset of features from existing abstractions, to support how video is increasingly being used: for non-linear retrieval, variable speed and spatially selective playback, machine analysis, and other new approaches. As a case study, the paper describes the use of the Named Data Networking (NDN) network architecture within an experimental theatrical work being developed at UCLA. The work, a new play, Entropy Bound, uses NDN to enable a hybrid design paradigm for real-time video that combines properties of streams, buses, and stores. This approach unifies real-time live and historical playback, and is used to support edge-assisted machine learning. The paper introduces the play and its requirements (as well as the NDN components applied and developed), discusses key design patterns enabled and explored and their influence on the application architecture, and describes what was learned through practical implementation in a realworld production setting. The paper intends to inform future experimentation with real-time media over information-centric networking and elaborate on the benefits and challenges of using NDN in practice for mixed reality applications today.
Chapter 17 – Chi-Squared Analysis: Testing for Patterns in Qualitative Data

In this chapter, you will learn how to use and interpret chi-squared tests, which are hypothesis tests for qualitative data where you have categories instead of numbers. With nominal qualitative data, you can only count (since ordering and arithmetic cannot be done). Chi-squared tests are therefore based on counts that represent the number of items in the sample falling into each category. The chi-squared statistic measures the difference between the actual counts and the expected counts (assuming validity of the null hypothesis that the categories are independent of one another).
Preparing Teachers for Relationships With Students: Two Visions, Two Approaches:

Meaningful teacher–student relationships are linked to a range of positive student outcomes. However, there is limited research on how teacher education programs attempt to prepare teachers to form...
Free Speech, Universities, and the Development of Civic Discourse

This paper will explore the multifaceted nature of the controversies around campus speech and academic freedom and what should be the appropriate university response to those issues. Where there is widespread agreement is that there is currently a lack of civil discourse around political, scientific, social, and religious ideas in our country. The level of vitriol has grown, and name-calling is the norm in the public space, whether real or virtual. College campuses are not immune to the political climate and tone of the country. Concerns about free expression and responses to unpopular ideas at universities point to the larger failure to develop the skills of civil discourse in our students and citizens. The inability to engage in civil discourse is a dangerous threat to advancing knowledge and for assuring a robust deliberative democracy. Colleges and universities should be places where controversial ideas, even noxious ideas, can expressed and challenged, and students need to be part of that process. I will argue that colleges and universities should adopt as part of their core mission the development of the skills of civic discourse, which is the foundation of the virtue of civility, a necessary virtue for a deliberative democracy and one that is sorely lacking in current times.
Der Winter naht – oder?

Hinter dem Kampf von Konigen und der Geburt von Drachen lauert die Verheisung: Der Winter naht. Naturlich naht er. Das ist normalerweise die Jahreszeit nach dem Herbst und vor dem Fruhling. Auch fur Westeros muss es dafur eine astronomische Erklarung geben – also eine, die etwas mit der Beziehung zwischen dem Planeten und den anderen schweren Korpern in seiner Umgebung, wie Monden und Sternen, zu tun hat, denn die Jahreszeiten, die die Geschichte von Westeros vorantreiben, sind Vorboten auf den kommenden Angriff des Winters.
A sandwich-type bacteriophage-based amperometric biosensor for the detection of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli serogroups in complex matrices

Immuno-based biosensors are a popular tool designed for pathogen screening and detection. The current antibody-based biosensors employ direct, indirect, or sandwich detection approaches; however, instability, cross-reactivity, and high-cost render them unreliable and impractical. To circumvent these drawbacks, here we report a portable sandwich-type bacteriophage-based amperometric biosensor, which is highly-specific to various Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) serogroups. Environmentally isolated and biotinylated bacteriophages were directly immobilized onto a streptavidin-coated screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE), which recognized and captured viable target cells. Samples (50 μL) were transferred to these bacteriophage-functionalized SPCEs (12 min, room temp) before sequentially adding a bacteriophage–gold nanoparticle solution (20 μL), H2O2 (40 mM), and 1,1′-ferrocenedicarboxylic acid for amperometric tests (100 mV s−1) and analysis (ANOVA and LSD, P < 0.05). The optimum biotin concentration (10 mM) retained 94.47% bacteriophage viability. Non-target bacteria (Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium) had delta currents below the threshold of a positive detection. With less than 1 h turn-around time, the amperometric biosensor had a detection limit of 10–102 CFU mL−1 for STEC O157, O26, and O179 strains and R2 values of 0.97, 0.99, and 0.87, respectively, and a similar detection limit was observed in complex matrices, 10–102 CFU g−1 or mL−1 with R2 values of 0.98, 0.95, and 0.76, respectively. The newly developed portable amperometric biosensor was able to rapidly detect viable target cells at low inoculum levels, thus providing an inexpensive and improved alternative to the current immuno- and laboratory-based STEC screening methods.
Coded conduct: making MACSYMA users and the automation of mathematics

This article explores an early computer algebra system called MACSYMA – a repository of automated non-numeric mathematical operations developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology from the 1960s to the 1980s, to help mathematicians, physicists, engineers and other mathematical scientists solve problems and prove theorems. I examine the extensive paper-based training materials that were produced alongside the system to create its users. Would-be users were told that the system would free them from the drudgery of much mathematical labour. However, this ‘freedom’ could only be won by adapting to a highly disciplined mode of problem solving with a relatively inflexible automated assistant. In creating an automated repository of mathematical knowledge, MACSYMA developers sought to erase its social context. However, looking at the training literature, we see that the social operates everywhere, only recoded. This article uses the paper-based training materials to uncover the codes of conduct – both social and technical – that coordinated between the users, developers and machines that constituted the system.
Predicting 180-day mortality for women with ovarian cancer using machine learning and patient-reported outcome data.

e13555Background: Contra to national guidelines, women with ovarian cancer often receive aggressive treatment until the end-of-life. We trained machine learning algorithms to predict mortality with...
Multi PCET in symmetrically substituted benzimidazoles.

Proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) reactions depend on the hydrogen-bond connectivity between sites of proton donors and acceptors. The 2-(2′-hydroxyphenyl) benzimidazole (BIP) based systems, which mimic the natural TyrZ-His190 pair of Photosystem II, have been useful for understanding the associated PCET process triggered by one-electron oxidation of the phenol. Substitution of the benzimidazole by an appropriate terminal proton acceptor (TPA) group allows for two-proton translocations. However, the prototropic properties of substituted benzimidazole rings and rotation around the bond linking the phenol and the benzimidazole can lead to isomers that interrupt the intramolecular hydrogen-bonded network and thereby prevent a second proton translocation. Herein, a strategic symmetrization of a benzimidazole based system with two identical TPAs yields an uninterrupted network of intramolecular hydrogen bonds regardless of the isomeric form. NMR data confirms the presence of a single isomeric form in the disubstituted system but not in the monosubstituted system in certain solvents. Infrared spectroelectrochemistry demonstrates a two-proton transfer process associated with the oxidation of the phenol occurring at a lower redox potential in the disubstituted system relative to its monosubstituted analogue. Computational studies support these findings and show that the disubstituted system stabilizes the oxidized two-proton transfer product through the formation of a bifurcated hydrogen bond. Considering the prototropic properties of the benzimidazole heterocycle in the context of multiple PCET will improve the next generation of novel, bioinspired constructs built by concatenated units of benzimidazoles, thus allowing proton translocations at nanoscale length.
Conserving the American man: gender, eugenics and education in the Civilian Conservation Corps

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was a novel United States federal education programme that enrolled nearly three million men during the 1930s and early 1940s. This public work relief programm...
Effect of Pulsed Light treatment on the functional properties of casein films

Abstract In this study, the effect of Pulsed Light (PL) treatment as a cross-linking method on the properties of casein films was evaluated. Casein films were prepared from micellar casein concentrate, with 5 g/100 g glycerol added as a plasticizer. The UV-curable resins PEG (200) diacrylate and PEG (400) diacrylate were added as photo-initiators. Films were prepared by casting and equilibrated under a range of relative humidity (%RH), then treated with Pulsed Light (PL), with up to 15 pulses of light on each side, at a fluence of 1.57 J/cm2 per pulse. The microstructure, mechanical and water barrier properties, water sorption and hydrophobicity of the films were evaluated. PL treatment of casein films with up to 12 pulses increased the films' smoothness and homogeneity, while higher levels of treatment caused structural defects. Mechanical strength and elongation of some of the films, particularly those with added PEG (400) diacrylate, were significantly increased by PL, but no improvement of their water vapor permeability was observed. The incorporation of PEG (200) diacrylate resulted in highly porous film microstructures, and interesting photo-patterning effects observed at high PL doses. These results indicate the potential of PL for creating protein films with unique characteristics and functionality.
Relativistic boost as the cause of periodicity in a massive black-hole binary candidate

Because most large galaxies contain a central black hole, and galaxies often merge, black-hole binaries are expected to be common in galactic nuclei. Although they cannot be imaged, periodicities in the light curves of quasars have been interpreted as evidence for binaries, most recently in PG 1302-102, which has a short rest-frame optical period of four years (ref. 6). If the orbital period of the black-hole binary matches this value, then for the range of estimated black-hole masses, the components would be separated by 0.007-0.017 parsecs, implying relativistic orbital speeds. There has been much debate over whether black-hole orbits could be smaller than one parsec (ref. 7). Here we report that the amplitude and the sinusoid-like shape of the variability of the light curve of PG 1302-102 can be fitted by relativistic Doppler boosting of emission from a compact, steadily accreting, unequal-mass binary. We predict that brightness variations in the ultraviolet light curve track those in the optical, but with a two to three times larger amplitude. This prediction is relatively insensitive to the details of the emission process, and is consistent with archival ultraviolet data. Follow-up ultraviolet and optical observations in the next few years can further test this prediction and confirm the existence of a binary black hole in the relativistic regime.
Qualified Accounting Changes and Investor Assessments of Financial Performance and Representational Faithfulness

In this study we examine how an audit qualification of an accounting change affects investor assessments of the firm's current and future financial performance, and the representational faithfulness of the change. We investigate this issue for income-increasing and income-decreasing accounting changes, and across four apparent reporting strategies: reporting aggressively, taking a bath, creating hidden reserves, and employing no apparent strategy. Our results show that the effect of the qualification on assessments of current and future performance depends on whether the accounting change increases or decreases reported net income. When an income-increasing accounting change is qualified, investors decrease their assessments of current and future financial performance; when an income-decreasing accounting change is qualified, investor assessments of financial performance are either unaffected or decreased depending on the apparent reporting strategy. We also find evidence that assessments of representational faithfulness relate positively (negatively) to assessments of financial performance when accounting changes are income increasing (decreasing), and under all conditions qualifications reduce investor assessments of representational faithfulness. Avenues for future research are also discussed.
The 2008 Financial Crisis: Implications for Income Tax Reform

Tax rules encouraging excessive debt, complex financial transactions, poorly designed incentive compensation for corporate managers, and highly leveraged home ownership all may have contributed to the financial crisis, but do not appear to have been among the primary causes. Even without a strong causal link, however, the preexisting case for tax reform at all these margins arguably is strengthened by the 2008 financial crisis, which suggests that tax rules not only fell short of classic neutrality benchmarks but generally leaned in precisely the wrong direction.
Complex composite odontoma: A clinical and histologic report

Abstract A case of complex compound odontoma of the maxilla has been described, both clinically and histologically. This tumor was typical in every respect. It was discovered only after it had become secondarily infected; it had been symptomless previous to its infection; the contiguous teeth were absent. Following conservative treatment by surgical removal, the postoperative result was excellent.
Discourse Style and Situation Viewpoint for a Conversational Language Tutor

Discourse style and situational viewpoint are key elements of an immersion-style language tutor. In order to achieve conversational continuity, such a system needs to maintain a model of goals, actions and states in the microworld along with tools to manage discourse. The discourse management tools include various dialog schemas composed of interaction types. These schemas guide the communication protocol between the student and the tutor. Another tool is the type of view that one takes of what occurs in the microworld. The various view types in our taxonomy provide a mechanism for generating comments on those aspects of the microworld that are relevant while using a particular interaction type. In sum, we have devised a variety of interaction types and views and shown how to use them in the construction of a bimodal, bidirectional communication system for immersive foreign language learning.
Equilibrium polymerization in a solvent: Solution on the Bethe lattice

The lattice model for equilibrium polymerization in a solvent proposed by Wheeler and Pfeuty is solved exactly on a Bethe lattice (core of a Caylay tree) with general coordination numberq. Earlier mean-field results are reobtained in the limitq→∞, but the phase diagrams show deviations from them for finiteq. Whenq=2, our results turn into the solution of the one-dimensional problem. Although the model is solved directly, without the use of the correspondence between the equilibrium polymerization model and the diluten→0 model, we verified that the latter model may also be solved on the Bethe lattice, its solution being identical to the direct solution in all parameter space. As observed in earlier studies of the puren→0 vector model, the free energy is not always convex. We obtain the region of negative susceptibility for our solution and compare this result with mean field and renormalization group (ɛ-expansion) calculations.
Robust voltage commutation of the conventional matrix converter

The three-phase AC-AC converter termed the matrix converter can provide high quality input/output waveforms and adjustable input power factor without any large energy storage component. However, it has not yet found much acceptance in industry. The main reason is that it requires a complicated commutation scheme to prevent input side short circuits and output side open circuits. This paper develops a new voltage commutation scheme for the conventional matrix converter. One advantage of this scheme is that it provides robust voltage commutations for the converter without sacrificing the quality of the line side current waveforms. The second advantage is that it needs the least information from the system than any algorithm yet reported. It only detects the line side synchronization angle which can have detection errors within /spl plusmn//spl pi//6 radians under unity input power factor to provide accurate commutation. The last advantage of this scheme is that it can provide easier shut down sequences for the system. Theoretical analysis, simulation and experimental results are provided to verify its effectiveness in the paper.
Detecting 3-D Parallel Lines for Perceptual Organization

This paper describes a new algorithm to simultaneously detect and classify straight lines according to their orientation in 3-D. The fundamental assumption is that the most “interesting” lines in a 3-D scene have orientations which fall into a few precisely defined categories. The algorithm we propose uses this assumption to extract the projection of straight edges from the image and to determine the most likely corresponding orientation in the 3-D scene. The extracted 2-D line segments are therefore “perceptually” grouped according to their orientation in 3-D. Instead of extracting all the line segments from the image before grouping them by orientation, we use the orientation data at the lowest image processing level, and detect segments separately for each predefined 3-D orientation. A strong emphasis is placed on real-world applications and very fast processing with conventional hardware.
Higher education for refugees: Lessons from a 4-year pilot project

Refugees experience limited access to adequate education at all levels, but opportunities for higher education are especially lacking. Yet, evidence suggests that education plays an important protective role in helping refugee individuals and communities cope with their daily existence during protracted waiting periods, and the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) recently recognised tertiary education as a basic human right. The purpose of this paper is to present findings from the evaluation of a pilot programme, Jesuit Commons: Higher Education at the Margins (JC:HEM), which initially provided higher education to refugees in Kakuma Camp, Kenya and Dzaleka Camp, Malawi; and to urban refugees in Amman, Jordan. The authors of this note review the progress made towards the pilot objectives, as well as student feedback on the benefits and challenges of higher education for refugees and others living at the margins. The refugees interviewed in this study expressed feelings of empowerment, related to their expanded worldview as well as to a specific set of skills obtained through their participation in the programme. Interviewees also noted a number of limitations specific to the context of their living conditions. Particularly in refugee camps, students expressed concerns about what would happen after their having completed their course. The general outcome of the pilot phase, which ended in 2014, was that the programme addresses a critical need and that it should be continued, albeit with key modifications in its design and delivery. Key areas for future growth of the programme include curriculum transformation, integrated service delivery and university engagement.
Branch- and-price for solving integer programs with a huge number of variables: methods and applications

Many interesting discrete optimization problems, including airline crew scheduling, vehicle routing and cutting stock, have "good" integer programming formulations that require a huge number of variables. Good means that the linear programming relaxations give tight bounds which implies small search trees. We will discuss classes of problems for which this type of formulation is desirable, and special (non-standard) methodology that is needed to solve these integer programs.
Harmonics-transformer derating

Power transformers supplying nonsinusoidal load current often need to be derated. The ANSI/IEEE C57.110-1986 standard provides a method by which derating may be performed. However, derating only provides an estimate of remaining transformer capacity, since subsequent load may significantly change the relative harmonic current values. The contribution of this paper is to provide a clear guide that can be used in applying the standard. This paper is not meant to replace the standard but to supplement it by providing correct examples and simplified equations. >
The Organic Geochemistry of Carbonaceous Meteorites

The stable carbon isotope record of bulk organic matter (i.e., kerogen) in ancient rock samples indicates that living systems may have existed on Earth 3.5 billion years ago (e.g., Schidlowski, 1987,1988,1991). It is generally accepted that life originated on the Earth and that organic compounds deemed essential for its origin, for example, amino acids, formed via prebiotic mechanisms prior to this event. Thus, an appreciation of the distribution, stereochemistry, and stable isotope compositions of amino acids in ancient terrestrial and extraterrestrial systems is of fundamental importance with respect to (1) evaluating mechanisms for prebiotic organic synthesis at the time of (and perhaps prior to) the formation of the solar system (e.g., Ferris, 1984; Cronin et al., 1988; Oro et al., 1990), (2) determining the potential contribution of extraterrestrial organic matter to Earth via comet and meteorite bombardment (e.g., Nagy, 1985; Nagy et al., 1987; Zhao and Bada, 1989; Zahnle and Grinspoon, 1990; Chyba et al., 1990; Chyba and Sagan, 1992), and (3) understanding the nature of the organic compounds available for the origin of the first living systems on Earth (e.g., Mullie and Reisse, 1987; Miller, 1992, and this volume, Chapter 30).
Phase transitions in polyphenyls: Raman spectra of p-terphenyl and p-quaterphenyl in the solid state

Abstract Phase transitions in crystalline p-terphenyl and p-quaterphenyl are investigated with Raman spectroscopy in relation to three aspects of structural transitions: (i) changes in molecular and crystal symmetries. (ii) continuous versus discontinuous transitions, and (iii) order—order displacive transition versus order—disorder transition. The nature of phase transitions for these two polyphenyls is compared with that observed for biphenyl. It is found that phase transitions in polyphenyls (biphenyl, p-terphenyl, and p-quaterphenyl) involving, a ring—ring twist change crystal symmetries, but have a small effect on intermolecular interactions. The transition temperature increases with an increase in the length of the polyphenyl. The phase transition in p-quaterphenyl, like that in biphenyl, is continuous (second order, critical temperature ≈ 243 K) and destroys the inversion symmetry of the site. On the other hand,the phase transition in p-terphenyl is quasi-continuous (pseudo-second order) with a transition temperature of 175 ± 10 K. Although the present result appears to argue against an order—order displacive (soft mode) mechanism, it does not provide any direct support for an order—disorder
Ion transport in divalent cation complexes of poly (ethylene oxide)

Abstract Electrolytes formed by dissolving ionic salts in poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) were first considered from the perspective of crystalline solid electrolytes. It is now clear that they are an unusual form of electrolyte with properties between those of solids and true liquids. The properties of PEO electrolytes vary widely, especially the cation transport number. The most remarkable electrolytes so far are those formed by NiBr2 for which it appears that Ni2+ transport can be activated by controlled hydration/dehydration. This paper discusses the electrochemical and structural characteristics of a variety of PEO electrolytes containing divalent cations, including Cd2+, Ni2+, Co2+, Zn2+, and Pb2+.
Confirmation of McMillan's Concept of "Discommensurations"

/sup 77/Se NMR is used to study a proposal made by McMillan regarding the charge-density wave (CDW) in 2H-TaSe/sub 2/. The dependence of the NMR line shape is compared with predictions based on McMillan's theory. McMillan's hypothesis of ''discommensurations'' is confirmed: that the so-called incommensurate CDW is best described by commensurate regions separated by regions of phase slip.
Influence of scaffold meso-scale features on bone tissue response

Creation of bone to restore form and function following disease, growth disorders, and trauma is possible with bone-replacement scaffolds by controlling the complex sequence of new bone formation at the scaffold interface with the surrounding biologic milieu. Much is known about the influence of scaffold nano-scale ( 1 mm) provide anatomic form and delimit the extent of the scaffold, serving as a platform to integrate other length-scale features. Many of the main effects of features at each length scale are understood but interactions across length scales still need investigation. Major improvements in bone replacement are now possible—but optimization of the process remains an as-yet unrealized goal.
Early Stoicism and Akrasia

Analyse du traitement de la notion d'akrasia dans la philosophie stoicienne representee par Chrysippe. A travers l'exemple de Medee, l'A. montre que la psychologie stoicienne admet que la raison soutienne des propositions contradictoires, sans remettre en question ni la these de l'unite de l'esprit (harmonie de l'âme), ni le principe moral de la responsabilite de l'action
Redox chemistry of CuNaZSM-5: Detection of cuprous ions by FTi.r.

Abstract Reduction with H2 of ion-exchanged Cu,Na ZSM-5 produces Cu0 atoms and protons. In the presence of the CO, part of the Cu0 is reoxidized to Cu+ ions by the zeolitic protons. The Cu+ ions are stabilized by formation of a strong Cu+-CO adsorption complex, identified by its i.r. band at 2157 cm−1. After exposure to CO He at 773 K for 30 h, ∼ 65% of the Cu0 atoms are oxidized. A sharp i.r. band at 969-966 cm−1 is attributed to an asymmetric internal zeolite stretching vibration, which is perturbed by Cu+ ions; its intensity increases linearly with that of the band assigned to Cu+-CO.Simultaneously, the intensity of the protonic OH band at 3611 cm 1decreases linearly with increasing Cu+ concentration. Relative extinction and integrated absorption coefficients are estimated.
The relationship of in vivo bone strain to mandibular corpus morphology in Macaca fascicularis

Abstract Inferred patterns of mandibular bone stress derived from in vivo strain data are related to size and shape variation in the mandibular corpus of Macaca fascicularis . Size and shape are described in mechanical terms from the cross-sectional contours of compact bone at seven locations along the mandibular corpus. Area moments of inertia and section moduli are related to bending moment arms, cortical area is related to variation in total subperiosteal area, and an estimate of torsional strength is calculated. The distribution of masticatory stress in the macaque corpus is hypothesized to be highly inequitable; the symphysis and the most posterior region of the corpus (i.e., at the M 2 and M 3 ) are probably subjected to the highest normal stresses in lateral and parasagittal bending, respectively. The distribution of torsional shear stress in the mandible is difficult to model theoretically, although it is likely that these stresses also vary in magnitude in different regions of the corpus. These data indicate that the inference of masticatory stress patterns from purely morphological criteria in the absence of experimental corroboration is problematic. It is unlikely that regional variation in corpus mechanical properties directly reflects local differences in the relative magnitudes of different masticatory stress regimes.
Catalytic Oxidation of Phosphines by Transition Metal-Activated Carbon Dioxide.

Abstract The complexes (Ph3P)3RhCl and [(cyclooctene)2 RhCl]2 have been found to catalyze the oxidation of phosphines by carbon dioxide in refluxing decalin. The rate of oxidation increases in the order PPh3
RNA:DNA ratio during the critical period and early larval growth of the red drum Sciaenops ocellatus

Eggs from two separate spawning stocks of the red drum Sciaenops ocellatus (Linnaeus) were hatched, and the larvae were reared in the laboratory for 2 wk under closely controlled conditions. Total RNA, DNA, and soluble protein were measured in each population daily in triplicate pooled samples of larvae from each of three tanks. Growth rate in mm d-1 was determined for each population at 2 d intervals. Growth rate explained 72 and 95% of the variation in the RNA:DNA ratios of the two populations individually, and 86% of the variation in the RNA:DNA ratio when data from the two populations were combined. The RNA:DNA ratio appeared to be most effective as an indicator of growth in rapidly growing larvae, and to lose some resolution when growth was intermittent. The rates of deposition of RNA, DNA, and protein into tissue were all highly correlated with growth rate and with each other. Mean population RNA:DNA ratios of red drum yolk-sac larvae decreased from Day 1 post-hatch until larvae initiated successful feeding behavior, and then increased steadily throghout the remainder of the experimental period. This pattern of change in the RNA:DNA ratios during the yolk-sac stage appears to be an intrinsic developmental pattern of red drum ontogeny. The lowest values for the RNA:DNA ratio were observed just prior to the initiation of feeding or during the “critical period”, indicating that red drum larvae experience a decrease in capacity for protein synthesis as they initiate feeding. Intrinsic variation in the RNA:DNA ratio during development suggests that caution be used when comparing the RNA:DNA ratios of yolk-sac larvae to a “critical ratio” calculated from Buckley's general model.
Effects of mastoparan on catecholamine release from chromaffin cells.

Release of catecholamines from bovine adrenal chromaffin cells exposed to mastoparan, a wasp venom peptide which activates GTP-binding proteins and phospholipase A2, was evaluated. Release of catecholamines was dependent on mastoparan concentration and time of exposure. This release was, however, independent of extracellular calcium and accompanied by release of the cytoplasmic marker lactate dehydrogenase. Mastoparan also inhibited catecholamine secretion evoked by nicotine, but the peptide had little or no effect on release induced by other socretagogues. These findings suggest that in chromaffin cells mastoparan is not a secretagogue but rather causes cell lysis and blocks nicotinic receptor function.
CONSTRAINT SATISFACTION IN “CONSCIOUS” SOFTWARE AGENTS—A PRACTICAL APPLICATION

ABSTRACT The U.S. Navy has been trying for many years to automate its personnel assignment process. Periodic assignment of personnel to new jobs is mandatory according to Navy policy. Though various software systems are used regularly, the process is mainly done manually and sequentially by Navy personnel called detailers. This paper is a case study in applying cognitive theories implemented via new AI techniques to produce flexible adaptive human-like software. In it we present a sketch of an intelligent distribution agent that aims to largely automate the detailer's tasks. In particular, we look inside its constraint satisfaction, which is mainly responsible for satisfying the requirements of the Navy's policies, the command's needs, and the sailor's preferences in order to achieve “satisfactory” job assignments, according to ever-evolving Navy standards.
Self-Heating Effects in Thermoset Composites:

We describe a simple mathematical strategy, familiar from combustion studies, which can be used to predict whether or not temperature spiking occurs when a thermoset composite specimen is cured in an autoclave. For large specimens, thermal spiking cannot be avoided, so that Kim et al. (1995) have proposed an alternative process in which lay-up occurs contemporaneously with curing and consolidation. This steady-state process and its one-dimensional stability have been analysed by Teng (1993) for simple kinetic schemes using an asymptotic approach, but we describe a non-asymptotic strategy called the δ-function model. This has the advantage that complex cure kinetics can be handled with as much ease as simple kinetics. We present, for the first time, two-dimensional stability results, and show that, for nth-order kinetics, one-dimensional results will suffice.
Occurrence of long-chain n-alkenols, diols, keto-ols and sec-alkanols in a sediment core from a hypereutrophic, freshwater lake

Abstract Long-chain mid-chain diols and keto-ols have been reported mainly in marine environments but only rarely in lacustrine sediments. In this work, exceptionally high abundances and diversity of keto-ols, diols and structurally related long-chain n -alkenols and secondary alkanols were detected in sediments from a hypereutrophic, freshwater lake (Lake Valencia, Venezuela). The maximum concentrations are 241 μg/g TOC for n -alkenols, 75 μg/g TOC for diols, 367 μg/g TOC for keto-ols, and 8.7 μg/g TOC for secondary alkanols. Eleven keto-ol isomers were identified, which is the highest diversity yet reported for sediments. The presence of five keto-ol isomers, namely 1,12-C 30 keto-ol, 1,14-C 31 keto-ol, 1,15-C 33 keto-ol, 1,16-C 33 keto-ol and 1,18-C 35 keto-ol is reported for the first time. The mass spectra for osmium tetroxide derivatives from long chain n -alkenols confirmed the double bond location at carbons 13, 14 or 15. The carbon isotope compositions were substantially enriched in 13 C for n -alkenols, diols and keto-ols ( δ 13 C = −22.0 ± 2.2‰) relative to the corresponding long-chain n -alkanols (−29.6 ± 0.8‰), suggesting an autochthonous aquatic microbial origin rather than from a terrestrial (i.e., fern) source. Although a strong predominance of cyanobacteria was reported for in the lake’s plankton community (>90%) and relatively low abundance of sedimentary sterols suggests cyanobacteria as a potential source, eustigmatophytes, a major reported producer of diols and keto-ols, cannot be excluded because eustigmatophytes are easily confused with other microalgae and may have been overlooked in previous studies. n -Alkenols and keto-ols displayed similar historical patterns over the past 10,000+ years, but there were distinct differences from the diol patterns. This result suggested that n -alkenols and keto-ols may be derived from the same sources, while diols either undergo different environmental diagenesis or have different sources. A keto-ol index coincides well with the hydrological changes of Lake Valencia over the last 10,000+ years, and corroborates its validity as a paleo-indicator.