cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multiaxial creep behaviour of Indalloy 227 [soldering]

Indalloy 227 (76% Sn/20% In/3% Ag) lead-free solder was investigated. Constant load creep tests were performed for a variety of temperatures and initial stresses to find the behaviour at very low strain rates. The data was collapsed into a single reduced time curve which predicts the steady state creep rate for the material at any combination of tensile loading and temperature. From this data, a multiaxial creep deformation model was developed by defining an effective stress via the von Mises yield criterion. The corresponding effective strain along with the effective stress from the multiaxial loading can be used in the reduced time model to predict creep behaviour for any loading. A combined tension-torsion loading test was devised to verify the three-dimensional model for a variety of multiaxial loadings.
Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids are involved in the C70 fullerene derivative–induced control of allergic asthma

Background Fullerenes are molecules being investigated for a wide range of therapeutic applications. We have shown previously that certain fullerene derivatives (FDs) inhibit mast cell (MC) function in vitro , and here we examine their in vivo therapeutic effect on asthma, a disease in which MCs play a predominant role. Objective We sought to determine whether an efficient MC-stabilizing FD (C 70 -tetraglycolate [TGA]) can inhibit asthma pathogenesis in vivo and to examine its in vivo mechanism of action. Methods Asthma was induced in mice, and animals were treated intranasally with TGA either simultaneously with treatment or after induction of pathogenesis. The efficacy of TGA was determined through the measurement of airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, serum IgE levels, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytokine and eicosanoid levels. Results We found that TGA-treated mice have significantly reduced airway inflammation, eosinophilia, and bronchoconstriction. The TGA treatments are effective, even when given after disease is established. Moreover, we report a novel inhibitory mechanism because TGA stimulates the production of an anti-inflammatory P-450 eicosanoid metabolites ( cis -epoxyeicosatrienoic acids [EETs]) in the lung. Inhibitors of these anti-inflammatory EETs reversed TGA inhibition. In human lung MCs incubated with TGA, there was a significant upregulation of CYP1B gene expression, and TGA also reduced IgE production from B cells. Lastly, MCs incubated with EET and challenged through FceRI had a significant blunting of mediator release compared with nontreated cells. Conclusion The inhibitory capabilities of TGA reported here suggest that FDs might be used a platform for developing treatments for asthma.
The Lesions of Hepatic Fatty Cirrhosis in Sheep

During a natural outbreak of hepatic fatty cirrhosis (HFC) in western Texas, 500 2-6-year-old Rambouillet ewe sheep were sequentially studied to determine the pattern of lesion development. All sheep developed lesions of HFC. Grossly, changes first began in the subcapsular hepatic parenchyma along the porta hepatis and spread peripherally until, in the final stages of the disease, approximately 80% of the liver was affected. Ascites, hydropericardium, and acquired hepatic vascular shunts were present in sheep with severe HFC. Light microscopic lesions initially appeared as accumulations of fine lipid droplets in the cytoplasm of periacinar hepatocytes but, with time, involved all hepatocytes of the lobule. The fat vacuoles in the periacinar hepatocytes coalesced to form larger vacuoles; and after rupture of adjacent fat-laden hepatocytes, fatty cysts appeared. Fibrosis began in the periacinar zone associated with the ruptured fatty cysts and continued until there was widespread bridging periacinar fibrosis. Islands of regenerating hepatocytes were frequently sequestered within the bands of fibrous tissue. Characteristically, the hepatic and posterior mediastinal lymph nodes, lung, and spleen contain ceroid. No lesions of hepatic encephalopathy were found in any animal. HFC is a progressive, chronic disease of sheep, and the morphology of the hepatic lesions is similar to lipotrope-deficient forms of nutritional cirrhosis. These findings are discussed in relation to similar nutritional deficiencies and toxicoses in sheep.
Emotional availability and psychosocial correlates among mothers in substance‐abuse treatment and their young infants

Emotional availability (EA) was investigated among low-income mothers enrolled in substance-abuse treatment and their young infants (n = 21) compared with a demographically matched group of mother-infant pairs who, by self-report, were not at risk for substance abuse (n = 27). The mother-infant dyads in the treatment group generally demonstrated poorer EA functioning than those in the comparison group, but few differences between the groups on individual dimensions of EA were significant. This finding was notable considering that mothers in treatment reported significantly higher levels of depressive symptoms and psychological stress. Treatment effects may have buffered the negative impact of depression and psychological stress on mothers' EA scores. The clinical implications of the findings are discussed as they relate to substance-abuse-treatment services for pregnant and parenting women.
Extended ultra-flat bands in photonic crystals

We create one-dimensional extended ultra-flat bands with relative frequency widths below 1% in two-dimensional photonic crystals. Caused by an interior saddle point, these flat bands lead to an enhanced density of states and improved self-collimation.
Comparing household listing techniques in a rural midwestern Vanguard Center of the National Children's Study.

The National Children's Study (NCS) is a longitudinal study that will examine the influ- ence of environmental and social factors on the health and development of 100,000 children, following them from before birth until age 21. Proposed participant recruitment methods call for locating and listing all dwelling units (DUs) located within randomly selected segments within the 105 NCS sites. One of seven Vanguard Centers of the NCS includes four rural counties that span approximately 2,500 square miles. The size of this sampling area presents unique geographic challenges. In order to determine the most efficient method for listing DUs within this large area, a study was undertaken to investigate the differences in the percent of DUs identified and the cost of four different approaches. It compared the on-site listing method of physically identifying each DU with three other methods: plat maps, postal listings, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)/satellite imagery techniques. The on-site method had the strongest k (.85) in terms of identifying true DUs. There was a moderate agreement (.59) with the plat map method, fair agreement (.34) with the postal method, and only a slight agreement (.14) with the GIS/satellite imagery method. The plat map, postal listing, and GIS/satellite methods were less time-consuming than the on-site method.
Location Fingerprint Analyses Toward Efficient Indoor Positioning

Analytical models to evaluate and predict "precision" performance of indoor positioning systems based on location fingerprinting are lacking. Such models can be used to improve the design of positioning systems, for example by eliminating some fingerprints and reducing the size of the location fingerprint database. In this paper, we develop a new analytical model that employs proximity graphs for predicting performance of indoor positioning systems based on location fingerprinting. The model allows computation of an approximate probability distribution of error distance given a location fingerprint database based on received signal strength and its associated statistics. The performance results from the simulation and the analytical model are found to be congruent. This model also allows us to perform analysis of the internal structure of location fingerprints. We employ the analysis of the internal structure to identify and eliminate unnecessary location fingerprints stored in the database, thereby saving on computation while performing location estimation.
Automated construction and analysis of the design space for biochemical systems

Motivation: Our recent work introduced a generic method to construct the design space of biochemical systems: a representation of the relationships between system parameters, environmental variables and phenotypic behavior. In design space, the qualitatively distinct phenotypes of a biochemical system can be identified, counted, analyzed and compared. Boundaries in design space indicate a transition between phenotypic behaviors and can be used to measure a system's tolerance to large changes in parameters. Moreover, the relative size and arrangement of such phenotypic regions can suggest or confirm global properties of the system. Results: Our work here demonstrates that the construction and analysis of design space can be automated. We present a formal description of design space and a detailed explanation of its construction. We also extend the notion to include variable kinetic orders. We describe algorithms that automate common steps of design space construction and analysis, introduce new analyses that are made possible by such automation and discuss challenges of implementation and scaling. In the end, we demonstrate the techniques using software we have created. Availability: The Design Space Toolbox for MATLAB is freely available at http://www.bme.ucdavis.edu/savageaulab/ Contact: masavageau@ucdavis.edu
Sixteen-year changes and stable remission among treated and untreated individuals with alcohol use disorders.

Abstract Aims This study examined changes over a 16-year interval and predictors of stable remission among previously untreated individuals with alcohol-use disorders who did not obtain help or who entered either alcoholics anonymous (AA) or professional treatment in the first year after initially seeking help. Design and measures A sample of individuals ( N = 461) who initiated help-seeking was surveyed at baseline and 1, 3, 8, and 16 years later. In addition to providing information on life history of drinking at each contact point, participants described their current alcohol-related and psychosocial functioning and life context, and coping responses. Findings Irrespective of whether or not individuals obtained help, their alcohol-related functioning, life context, and coping improved. However, individuals who obtained help (AA or treatment) in the first year improved more and were more likely to achieve stable remission than those who did not. Nevertheless, the factors associated with stable remission were comparable for individuals who did and those who did not obtain timely help. Conclusions Compared with individuals who do not obtain timely help, those who enter either AA or treatment relatively soon after initiating help-seeking improve more quickly and achieve higher long-term remission rates.
Inhibition of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors increases paraoxon-induced apoptosis in cultured neurons.

Organophosphorus (OP) compounds, used as insecticides and chemical warfare agents, are potent neurotoxins. We examined the neurotoxic effect of paraoxon (O,O-diethyl O-p-nitrophenyl phosphate), an organophosphate compound, and the role of NMDA receptors as a mechanism of action in cultured cerebellar granule cells. Paraoxon is neurotoxic to cultured rat cerebellar granule cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Cerebellar granule cells are less sensitive to the neurotoxic effects of paraoxon on day in vitro (DIV) 4 than neurons treated on DIV 8. Surprisingly, the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, MK-801, enhances paraoxon-mediated neurotoxicity suggesting that NMDA receptors may play a protective role. Pretreatment with a subtoxic concentration of N-methyl-daspartate (NMDA) [100 AM] protects about 40% of the vulnerable neurons that would otherwise die from paraoxon-induced neurotoxicity. Moreover, addition of a neuroprotective concentration of NMDA 3 h after treatment with paraoxon provides the same level of protection. Because paraoxon-mediated neuronal cell death is time dependent, we hypothesized that apoptosis may be involved. Paraoxon increases apoptosis about 10-fold compared to basal levels. The broad-spectrum caspase inhibitor (Boc-D-FMK) and the caspase-9-specific inhibitor (Z-LEHD-FMK) protect against paraoxon-mediated apoptosis, paraoxon-stimulated caspase-3 activity and neuronal cell death. MK-801 increases, whereas NMDA blocks paraoxon-induced apoptosis and paraoxon-stimulated caspase-3 activity. These results suggest that activation of NMDA receptors protect neurons against paraoxon-induced neurotoxicity by blocking apoptosis initiated by paraoxon. Published by Elsevier Inc.
Condom effectiveness against non-viral sexually transmitted infections: a prospective study using electronic daily diaries.

Objectives To prospectively evaluate the protective value of consistent and correct use of latex condoms against the acquisition of Chlamydia trachomatis , Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Trichomonas vaginalis . Methods Patients (N=929) attending clinics that treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were prospectively followed for up to 6 months. Urine STI nucleic acid amplification testing was performed at baseline, 3 months and 6 months. Participants were instructed to respond to daily prompts from a handheld device by completing a report for each penile-vaginal sexual intercourse event. Generalised estimating equation models examined associations of consistent as well as consistent and correct condom use with STI incidence over 3-month intervals. Results Consistent condom use was not significantly associated with STI incidence (Estimated OR (EOR)=0.75; 95% CI (CI) 0.43 to 1.30; p=0.31). However, individuals who used condoms both correctly and consistently were estimated to have 59% lower odds of acquiring an STI (EOR=0.41; 95% CI 0.19 to 0.90; p=.026), compared to those who did not. Conclusions The correct as well as the consistent use of condoms greatly reduces the odds of non-viral STI acquisition.
The Children in the Community Study of Developmental Course of Personality Disorder

The Children in the Community (CIC) Study is an ongoing investigation of the course of psychiatric disorders including personality disorders (PDs) in an epidemiological sample of about 800 youths. In addition to tracking developmental trajectories over 20 years from adolescence into adulthood, the CIC Study has used prospective data to investigate early risks for Axis II disorders and symptoms (including both environmental factors and early characteristics), implications of comorbidity with Axis I disorders, and associated negative prognostic risk of adolescent PDs into adulthood. The substantial independent impact of PD on subsequent Axis I disorders, suicide attempts, violent and criminal behavior, interpersonal conflict, and other problematic adult outcomes confirms the importance of attention to these problems when they manifest in early adolescence. The implications of study findings for potential changes in the DSM are discussed.
Cross-Tolerance Between Acute Alcohol Intoxication and Endotoxemia

This study tests two hypotheses : (1) prior exposure to LPS induces cross-tolerance for the hepatic effects of subsequent short-term alcohol intoxication ; and (2) short-term alcohol intoxication renders the liver resistant to the effects of acute endotoxemia, resulting in reduced production of superoxide and tumor necrosis factor. In the first group of experiments, male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated intravenously with E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (0.5 mg/kg) 48 hr before they were given an intravenous bolus of ethanol (1.75 g/kg), followed by 250-300 mg/kg/hr) for 3-5 hr. Superoxide release in the perfused liver was measured after the 3-hr ethanol infusion. Pretreatment with LPS attenuated ethanol-mediated superoxide anion release by the perfused liver. The stimulatory effect of phorbol myristate acetate on hepatic release of superoxide was also decreased. In the second group of experiments, rats previously treated with ethanol for 5 hr, received an intravenous injection of LPS (1 mg/kg). At 90 min after LPS, sera were collected for tumor necrosis factor a assay. Hepatic release of superoxide anion was determined 3 hr after LPS. Acute ethanol intoxication for 5 hr significantly reduced LPS-induced serum tumor necrosis factor activity and free radical release by the perfused liver. LPS-induced mortality was also decreased. In both groups of experiments serum corticosteroid levels were reduced during cross-tolerance. These results demonstrate that cross-tolerance develops between acute alcohol intoxication and endotoxemia manifesting in reduced hepatic production of cytotoxic cytokines and superoxide anions.
Moxalactam Therapy for Bacterial Pneumonia

Therapy with moxalactam was evaluated in 71 patients with bacterial pneumonia. Ninety-two percent of patients with pneumonia due to gram-positive cocci, anaerobes, or Haemophilus influenzae were cured. One patient developed probable pneumococcal meningitis during treatment of sputum culture-positive pneumococcal pneumonia. Six of 10 patients with pneumonia due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Enterobacteriaceae were cured also. However, two of these patients became colonized with moxalactamresistant organisms, which were of the same species as the organism that caused the original infection. Two of the four patients in whom treatment failed were infected with P. aeruginosa and then developed superinfection with moxalactam-resistant Pseudomonas. Phlebitis and pain on intramuscular injection were the most common adverse effects observed. The results of this study demonstrate that moxalactam may constitute effective therapy for bacterial pneumonia, but the development of resistance during therapy may limit its usefulness against Pseudomonas infections. Moxalactam is a new p-lactam antibiotic that has in vitro activity against a broad range of potential
National and regional work‐potentials, 1790–1958

We are living in the midst of a world-crisis, which has grown progressively more acute throughout the past half-century. This situation stems from a lack of proper functional development and articulation of the world's overall economic, political, and strategic organizations, and it is through critical, cooperative, and quantitative study of these conditions that we may reasonably hope to sort out the facts from the fallacies, and so coordinate and organize our information as to lead us both to correct appraisals of the relative capacities and resources of the various national populations—and to such international arrangements as will be mutually beneficial and satisfying.
Differences in Treatment of Ischemic Heart Disease at a Public and a Voluntary Hospital: Sources and Consequences

A study of hospital patients with ischemic heart disease reports that patients in a public hospital received fewer needed diagnostic tests, surgeries, and follow-up visits for their conditions than their private hospital counterparts. Factors in the hospitals' organizational environments and the patients' social backgrounds were observed to have an impact on content of treatment and to affect patient as well as provider perspectives on the quality of care. To facilitate the analysis, data were collected from four sources: direct observation of the care of each patient on rounds and at the bedside; interviews with physicians concerning the rationale for their decisions; a process-oriented chart audit assessing the appropriateness of care; and an extensive home interview with each patient three months following hospital discharge to establish further use of health services, health status, and satisfaction with care.
Plasmidic Expression of nemA and yafC* Increased Resistance of Ethanologenic Escherichia coli LY180 to Nonvolatile Side Products from Dilute Acid Treatment of Sugarcane Bagasse and Artificial Hydrolysate

Hydrolysate-resistant Escherichia coli SL100 was previously isolated from ethanologenic LY180 after sequential transfers in AM1 medium containing a dilute acid hydrolysate of sugarcane bagasse and was used as a source of resistance genes. Many genes that affect tolerance to furfural, the most abundant inhibitor, have been described previously. To identify genes associated with inhibitors other than furfural, plasmid clones were selected in an artificial hydrolysate that had been treated with a vacuum to remove furfural. Two new resistance genes were discovered from Sau3A1 libraries of SL100 genomic DNA: nemA (N-ethylmaleimide reductase) and a putative regulatory gene containing a mutation in the coding region, yafC*. The presence of these mutations in SL100 was confirmed by sequencing. A single mutation was found in the upstream regulatory region of nemR (nemRA operon) in SL100. This mutation increased nemA activity 20-fold over that of the parent organism (LY180) in AM1 medium without hydrolysate and increased nemA mRNA levels >200-fold. Addition of hydrolysates induced nemA expression (mRNA and activity), in agreement with transcriptional control. NemA activity was stable in cell extracts (9 h, 37°C), eliminating a role for proteinase in regulation. LY180 with a plasmid expressing nemA or yafC* was more resistant to a vacuum-treated sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate and to a vacuum-treated artificial hydrolysate than LY180 with an empty-vector control. Neither gene affected furfural tolerance. The vacuum-treated hydrolysates inhibited the reduction of N-ethylmaleimide by NemA while also serving as substrates. Expression of the nemA or yafC* plasmid in LY180 doubled the rate of ethanol production from the vacuum-treated sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate.
PRIMARY GENETIC DYSPLASIA OF THE HIP WITH AND WITHOUT CLASSICAL DISLOCATION

1. One human trait which has been difficult to explain genetically is congenital dislocation of the hip. 2. An individual does not inherit congenital dislocation of the hip, but does inherit a primary defect, or hip dysplasia, which produces anatomical and physiological alterations of the joint called "flat socket". Only secondarily does actual dislocation occur, and dislocation need not necessarily occur. 3. Primary hip dysplasia is due to a genetic background. 4. Roentgenographic consanguinity studies are essential for a true genetic investigation of hip dislocation. 5. There is no "dislocation" gene. 6. There is a "hip dysplasia" gene. 7. The gene involved is not a recessive gene, but is a dominant gene. 8. The trait of hip dysplasia cannot be sex linked, because it is observed to pass from father to son. 9. Dysplasia of the hip without dislocation is a distinct clinical and roentgenographic entity, and should be included in textbooks in the chapter on classical dislocation, because the two entities have the same genetic etiology. 10. Dysplasia of the hip without dislocation occurs more frequently and may be more disabling than classical dislocation. 11. Acclivity of the roof of the acetabulum is the primary anatomical feature of a dysplastic acetabulum or flat socket. 12. Hip dysplasia refers not only to the acetabulum, but also to all joint-forming parts of the hip joint. 13. Primary hip dysplasia can lead much more easily to complete dislocation in the female than in the male. 14. Primary hip dysplasia with dislocation on one side is frequently associated with dysplasia without dislocation on the opposite side. 15. Hip joint instability and incongruity between the head and socket are the physiological and anatomical expressions of hip dysplasia without dislocation. 16. Primary hip dysplasia may remain asymptomatic for many years; in some individuals it may never be expressed clinically. 17. The extreme disability observed in some individuals is caused by traumatic arthritis of the hip joint resulting from mechanical factors of instability and incongruity. 18. The patient may gain relief of pain and disability by conservative treatment and surgical measures. 19. The geneticist and the surgeon have a tremendous opportunity for cooperative investigation.
Self-Compassion and Psychological Well-Being in Older Adults

Self-compassion refers to a kind and nurturing attitude toward oneself during situations that threaten one’s adequacy, while recognizing that being imperfect is part of being human. Although growing evidence indicates that self-compassion is related to a wide range of desirable psychological outcomes, little research has explored self-compassion in older adults. The present study investigated the relationships between self-compassion and theoretically based indicators of psychological adjustment, as well as the moderating effect of self-compassion on self-rated health. A sample of 121 older adults recruited from a community library and a senior day center completed self-report measures of self-compassion, self-esteem, psychological well-being, anxiety, and depression. Results indicated that self-compassion is positively correlated with age, self-compassion is positively and uniquely related to psychological well-being, and self-compassion moderates the association between self-rated health and depression. These results suggest that interventions designed to increase self-compassion in older adults may be a fruitful direction for future applied research.
The effect of similarity between human and machine action choices on adaptive automation performance

One of the defining characteristics of an adaptive automation system is the hand-off from machine to human-and vice versa. This research seeks to improve system control hand-offs, by investigating how the manner in which the automation completes its task affects the overall performance of the human-machine team. Specifically, the research will explore how the level of similarity of action choices between the automation and the human operator affects the resulting system's performance. A design process model for creating adaptive automation systems is complete, and was used to design an adaptive automation research environment. Data gathered using this system will be used to automate user task performance in the system, and allow for research into the effects of that automation.
Fracture Behavior of Y2O3 Doped Tetragonal Zirconia Polycrystals

In of ceramics like zirconia, in which nonlinear type fracture is brought about by stress induced transformation, the mechanical properties are affected by the process zone around the stress field in front of crack. Recently, some reports on this point studied by XRD analysis and Raman technique have been published. This paper discusses the relationships between some mechanical properties and fracture behavior in Y-TZP. Test specimens of Y-TZP were prepared by sintering powder produced by the solution technique, and their mechanical properties were measured, and stress induced transformation on the fracture surface was analysed by Raman spectrascopy. The monoclinic phase ratio on the fracture surface was correlated with bending strength but not with critical stress intensity factor. A distinct difference was observed in the morphology of fracture surface between specimens with strengths higher and lower than 80kg/mm2.
Thermoelectric Transport Across Nanoscale Polymer− Semiconductor−Polymer Junctions

There is an increasing interest in the thermoelectric (TE) properties of hybrid organic–inorganic structures, such as molecular junctions, organic–inorganic multilayers, and nanocomposites, owing to the recent success in nanostructuring of inorganic materials for high-efficiency thermoelectrics and the ability to synthesize hybrid materials in close analog to inorganic counterparts with much lower cost and greater flexibility. Compared to inorganic counterparts, the development of hybrid inorganic-polymer structures for TE applications are in a nascent stage, where theoretical understanding is very much needed and many potential nanoscale structures are yet to be explored. In this work, we study quasi-one-dimensional TE transport in a nanoscale polymer–semiconductor–polymer (PSP) junction, where a semiconductor quantum dot (QD) is trapped between two bulk polymers with aligned polymer chains. The Holstein small polaron model, which can be used for strong electron–phonon interaction in polymers beyond the ...
Thixcin® E as an Extender of Poisoned Male Lures Used to Control Fruit Flies in Hawaii

Thixcin® E, a stir-in type of thixotrope, was a more suitable extender than Myverol® or CAB-O-SIL® for male lures used with naled to annihilate melon flies, Dacus cucurbitae Coquillett; Mediterranean fruit flies, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann); and oriental fruit flies, D. Dorsalis Hendel. Moreover, mixtures containing Thixcin E were easier to prepare than mixtures containing Myverol Foliar deposits of lures containing Thixcin E were residually as effective as lures containing Myveroll and were more effective than lures containing CAB-O-SIL when the formulations were judged on the basis of the number of flies attracted and killed.
Disorders of potassium homeostasis.

Disorders of potassium balance occur often in clinical practice. Significant acute changes in extracellular potassium concentration influence “biologic electricity,” the ability for excitable cells in the body to conduct impulses or signals. Ileus, muscle weakness, and myocardial irritability can be signs and symptoms associated with altered biologic electricity and potassium imbalance. Most therapeutic interventions are directed to restoring a normal extracellular potassium concentration and “bioelectric conduction.”
The Monstrous Non-heteronormative Formed by the Male Gaze

Laura Mulvey notes that man is reluctant to gaze at his exhibitionist like. “Hence the split between spectacle and narrative supports the man’s role as the active one advancing the story, making things happen/’ she explains. “The man controls the film fantasy and also emerges as the representative of power in the a further sense” (20). Roderick A. Ferguson suggests “as it kept silent about sexuality and gender, historical material- ism, along with liberal ideology, took normative sexuality as the emblem of order, nature and universality, making that which deviated from hete- reopatriarchal ideals the sign of disorder” (6).
Probe into Distributed Photovoltaic Power Generation System in Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Base on in-depth research on distributed photovoltaic power generation system and operating parameters in Xi'an World Horticultural Expo electric vehicle charging stations,the paper calculates and analyzes photovoltaic power generation to provide a reference for the upcoming construction of Smart Grid Demonstration Zone.
G. E. Moore and Keynes

In the previous chapter we pointed out how the Apostles took Moore’s ethics as the philosophical basis for a deep need of theirs — the need for friendship and community. In giving expression to this need, Keynes’s life became — much more than is usually the case with young men — a maelstrom of emotions which, we suggested, is one of the factors behind the psychological texture of The General Theory.
The Joker’s Not Wild: Critical Theory and Social Policing

Jurgen Habermas’ Theory of Communicative Action marks a right turn in the tradition of German Critical Theory.1 Habermas rejects marxism and the radical materialist perspective in favour of an amalgam of liberal rationalism, conservative sociological theory, and mainstream language philosophy, and he puts aside the revolutionary goal of earlier Frankfurt School thinkers like Marcuse in favour of a social democratic accommodation with the ‘rational’ realities of capitalism. The ideal of social equality that has motivated so much leftist radicalism in the past century is replaced by a justification of the necessity of inequality. Sacrificing any attempt at an imaginative modelling of social reconstruction, Habermas engages instead in a conservative romanticism that offers spurious ideals of interiority as remedies for the excesses of social welfare bureaucracy. Seldom has so-called leftist social theory looked so indistinguishable from main-stream attempts to make power palatable and exploitation acceptable.
A Robust Hand-Calculated Bayesian Analysis

Robustness is a term attached to methods that are insensitive to assumptions extraneous to what is being studied. For example, in continuous distributions the shape of the distribution of sample medians is insensitive to the shape of the tails of the distribution from which the sample is drawn, and therefore medians are robust against changes in tails. Our main study depends upon distributional assumptions, such as the Poisson or negative binomial, and though we have studied their appropriateness, still it would be well to have a method that is less sensitive to distributional shape. Of course, we cannot expect from the robust study the strength of discrimination of the main study.
Sharing Stories The Role of Personal Narratives in Community Mobilization

The focus of this study is the role of health narratives play in mobilization when shared among community members experiencing exposure to air pollution from numerous sources of industrial pollutio...
Levels of VB and MO Theories

Given the present preeminence of MO theory, qualitative as well as quantitative, there is an unavoidable tendency to forget how frequently we actually revert to VB concepts when we discuss complicated systems or attempt to isolate the physical origin of a chemical phenomenon. Thus, the experimentalist still finds “arrow pushing” a useful tool in devising new synthetic routes or formulating mechanisms involving large molecules. Even more telling is the fact that in exploring the electronic nature of excited states and chemical intermediates one realizes the conceptual convenience of “radicaloid” and “zwitterionic” states.35a In attempting to understand how CI modifies the monodeterminantal MO wavefunction, one begins to appreciate the precarious balance of “covalent” and “ionic” terms.71 Finally, even in ground state stereochemical problems, the appeal of the “bond” construct is hard to resist and many papers have been published which make intuitive use of VB theoretical methodology.72 The purpose of this two-Dart work is to tailor VB theory into a potent intelligible, and formally correct qualitative theory of chemical bonding which can be applied uniformly to problems in all subdisciplines of chemistry. That this development is a natural and unavoidable occurence within the framework of scientific evolution can only be appreciated if one has a clear understanding of diverse theoretical approaches and their interrelationships, hence, this section is devoted to a discussion of the various brands of MO and VB theories which exposes common denominators and fundamental differences.
The 22nd Asia Pacific Tourism Association Conference 2016, “New Trends of Asia Pacific Tourism”, Beijing, China, June 1–4, 2016

The 22nd Asia Pacific Tourism Association (APTA) Annual Conference was held from 1 June to 4 June 2016 in Beijing, China, hosted by Beijing International Studies University (BISU). The attendance f...
The Evolution of Verse Structure in Old and Middle English Poetry: From the Earliest Alliterative Poems to Iambic Pentameter

In this fascinating study, Geoffrey Russom traces the evolution of the major English poetic traditions by reference to the evolution of the English language, and considers how verse forms are born, how they evolve, and why they die. Using a general theory of poetic form employing universal principles rooted in the human language faculty, Russom argues that certain kinds of poetry tend to arise spontaneously in languages with identifiable characteristics. Language changes may require modification of metrical rules and may eventually lead to extinction of a meter. Russom's theory is applied to explain the development of English meters from the earliest alliterative poems in Old and Middle English and the transition to iambic meter in the Modern English period. This thorough yet accessible study provides detailed analyses of form in key poems, including Beowulf and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and a glossary of technical terms.
Angiographic Efficacy of the Atriclip Left Atrial Appendage Exclusion Device Placed by Minimally Invasive Thoracoscopic Approach

Abstract Objectives This study sought to assess long-term left atrial appendage (LAA) closure efficacy of the Atriclip applied via totally thoracoscopic (TT) approach with computed tomographic angiography. Background LAA closure is associated with a low risk for atrial fibrillation–related embolic stroke. The Atriclip exclusion device allows epicardial LAA closure, avoiding the need for post-operative oral anticoagulation. Previous data with Atriclip during open chest procedures show a high efficacy rate of closure >95%. Methods Three-dimensional volumetric 2-phase computed tomographic angiography ≥90 days post-implantation was independently assessed by chest radiology for complete LAA closure on all consented subjects identified retrospectively as having had a TT-placed Atriclip at Vanderbilt University Medical Center from June 13, 2011, to October 6, 2015. Results Complete LAA closure (defined by complete exclusion of the LAA with no exposed trabeculations, and clip within 1 cm from the left circumflex artery) was found in 61 of 65 subjects (93.9%). Four cases had incomplete closure (6.2%). Two clips were placed too distally, leaving a large stump with exposed trabeculae. Two clips failed to address a secondary LAA lobe. No major complications were associated with TT placement of the Atriclip. Follow-up over 183 patient-years revealed 1 stroke in a patient with complete LAA closure and no thrombus (hypertensive cerebrovascular accident). Conclusions Angiographic LAA closure efficacy with a TT-placed Atriclip is high (93.9%). The clinical significance of a remnant stump is unknown. Confirmation of complete LAA occlusion should be made before cessation of systemic anticoagulation.
An Introduction to Radiomics: An Evolving Cornerstone of Precision Medicine

Abstract Over the past decade a compelling body of literature has emerged suggesting a more pivotal role for imaging in the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of diseases. These advances have facilitated the rise of an emerging practice known as Radiomics: the extraction and analysis of large numbers of quantitative features from medical images to improve disease characterization and prediction of outcome. Our aim is to clarify the potential clinical utility of radiomics specifically in solid tumor cancer care. First, we discuss the clinical processes of cancer management (i.e., diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment). Second, the limitations of the current process are discussed followed by a discourse of the benefits of radiomics. Third, we provide a high-level description of the workflow of radiomics and explain how it relates to biomedical texture analysis. We conclude with a review of the literature in this field and the remaining challenges ahead.
Fumonisin Inhibition of Ceramide Synthase: A Possible Risk Factor for Human Neural Tube Defects

Fumonisins are carcinogenic mycotoxins that cause farm animal diseases. They commonly contaminate maize and are suspected, but not proven, to cause human disease. Their mode of action involves inhibition of the enzyme (ceramide synthase) that controls the formation of sphingolipids, important regulators of pathways involved in cell death and survival. Sphingolipids are needed for the proper function of receptors associated with lipid rafts (for example, the high affinity folate-binding protein). Fumonisin disruption of folate transport interferes with neural tube closure in animal models in vitro, and this effect is reduced by folate supplementation. In vivo studies in the LMBc mouse strain have shown that maternal fumonisin administration during pregnancy causes a dose-related increase in the frequency of neural tube defects (NTDs) in the embryos. Co-exposing the dams to folate or ganglioside GM1 is protective, suggesting that fumonisin alters sphingolipid-dependent lipid raft function. In addition, altered expression of cytokines, inducible nitric oxide synthase, elevated levels of sphinganine and sphinganine 1-phosphate and several genes involved in redox homeostasis are observed in affected embryos. NTDs are the second most common birth defect in humans. The etiology of human NTDs is complex. Increased risk has been associated with genetic predisposition, dietary exposure to environmental contaminants, and reduced intake of folate and other vitamins/nutrients. Human clinical and epidemiological studies show folate supplementation reduces the risk for NTDs. While there is no direct evidence for fumonisin as a cause of NTD in humans, the incidence of NTD is higher where maize consumption is high, and both fumonisin exposure and folate deficient diets are likely. Thus, it has been hypothesized that fumonisin inhibition of ceramide synthase is a risk factor for NTDs in humans with folate deficient diets who consume large quantities of low quality maize.
Molecular organometallic resists for EUV (MORE): Reactivity as a function of metal center (Bi, Sb, Te and Sn)

This paper describes the photoreactivity of six organometallic complexes of the type PhnMX2 containing bismuth, antimony and tellurium, where n = 3 for bismuth and antimony and n = 2 for tellurium, and where X = acetate (O2CCH3) or pivalate (O2CC(CH3)3). These compounds were exposed to EUV light to monitor photodecomposition via in situ mass spectral analysis of the primary outgassing products of CO2, benzene and phenol. This paper explores the effect of metal center and carboxylate ligand on the EUV reactivity of these EUV photoresists.
Longterm Seasonal Variability of Photovoltaic Surface Soiling and Subsequent Power Loss in Doha Qatar

Dust accumulation or soiling on solar panels' and collectors' surfaces has become a well-known problem, which severely reduces the performance of solar energy conversion systems. The soiling of the solar surfaces is a complex phenomenon influenced by various site-specific environmental and weather factors, and therefore should demonstrate seasonal and weather-dependent trends. Such information of natural PV soiling would be useful not only for modeling the economic impact of surface soiling but also for properly scheduling of cleaning, which is of interest to project developers and operators. The purpose of the study is to investigate the long-term seasonal patterns of airborne dust accumulation on PV modules and soiling-induced PV performance degradation in the desert environment of Qatar. PV performance, ambient dust concentration and meteorological data were collected over the study period of 2014-2017. Results revealed that PV performance due to soiling in terms of daily change in the cleanness index (ΔCI) varied with season, which was attributed to substantial variations in environmental conditions (i.e., rainfall, wind speed, humidity, temperature, airborne dust concentration). Averaged over the four years, the daily ΔCI was − 0.43 ± 1.0% per day for modules cleaned every sixth month, and − 0.46 ± 1.05% per day for modules cleaned every second month or about 14% per month. The annual pattern shows significant seasonal variation of daily ΔCI and cumulative CI during the study period. Daily ΔCI was found to be the most severe during November ( − 0.75%) and least during June ( − 0.19%). The months correspond to the rainy season (i.e., February to April) have moderate values of ΔCI ( − 0.34%). It was observed that average daily ΔCI by month was decreased with increasing PM10 concentration and humidity and increased with that of temperature and wind speed. The intense dust storm and rainy events taking place on specific days of the month are predominantly responsible for the large month-to-month variations of PV soiling. A yearly soiling trend was also determined that could help to reduce uncertainty in energy yield prediction. Monthly dust deposition on PV modules was also determined gravimetrically, which also showed month-to-month variation following the same trend of monthly PV performance loss. In addition to the environmental factors affecting dust accumulation on PV modules, particle size distribution and chemical properties of the monthly-collected dust were investigated and compared as well.
Heterogeneous Chemistry of Polar Stratospheric Clouds and Volcanic Aerosols

The chemistry of the stratosphere is strongly influenced by the presence of small particles composed of sulfuric acid, nitric acid and other materials. The ubiquitous background stratospheric aerosol layer is composed of sulfuric acid droplets, while the clouds observed in the polar winter stratosphere (the polar stratospheric clouds, or PSCs) are composed of nitric acid ices. Chemical reactions can occur efficiently on the particle surfaces, and in solution in the case of liquid droplets. Such reactions affect the concentrations of chlorine and nitrogen species in the lower stratosphere, and play a critical role in ozone depletion. Indeed, the “ozone hole” has been shown to be initiated by “heterogeneous” reactions occurring on PSC particles. The origins and properties of sulfate aerosols, PSCs and other observed stratospheric particles are surveyed. Anthropogenic influences on these aerosols are discussed. The heterogeneous chemistry of polar stratospheric clouds, and the chemical processing of air in contact with such clouds, are illustrated using detailed model simulations. The injection of sulfur and chlorine into the stratosphere by volcanic eruptions is also investigated. HCl scavenging in volcanic eruption plumes is quantified based on an analysis of the dynamics, physical chemistry and microphysics of eruption columns. It is shown that very little chlorine is likely to enter the stratosphere in volcanic plumes because of efficient HCl absorption in supercooled water that condenses on sulfuric acid aerosols. The possible role of sulfate aerosols — both of volcanic and background origin — as a medium for heterogeneous chemical reactions is assessed. It is argued that the sulfate aerosols can produce significant chemical pertubations in regions of the atmosphere where temperatures drop below about 200 K. The potential contribution of sulfate aerosols to ozone depletion at high latitudes is discussed. Outstanding scientific issues concerning stratospheric aerosols and their chemical effects are summmarized.
Museum Careers: A Practical Guide for Students and Novices

This concise volume is the place to start for anyone considering a career in museums. Museum professional and author N. Elizabeth Schlatter outlines the nature of the profession as a whole, the rewards and challenges of museum work, types of museums, and jobs within museums, including salary ranges. She discusses options for education and training, and offers suggestions on how to secure a job and move up the career ladder. Interviews with museum professionals from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds demonstrate different career paths and offer unique and helpful advice. For novices in the field, students in museum studies programs, or anyone considering museums as a career choice, Schlatter’s book is an essential starting point.
Management Controls on Productivity

California annual-type grasslands have higher herbaceous plant primary productivity than any extensive vegetation west of the Rocky Mountains in North America. Productivity averages about 2000 kg ha-1 yr-1 with a strong north-south gradient due to rainfall causing productivity to range from about 5000 kg ha-1 yr-1 in the north where perennials (Beetle 1947) and legumes are a larger component to about 1000 kg ha-1 yr-1 in the south (Bartolome et al. 1980). Most of the pristine valley grassland (Heady 1977) has been replaced by irrigated agricultural crops, but much annual grassland remains on the margin of the Great Valley in open grassland, oak (Quercus sp.) savannas, and as understory vegetation in the foothill oak woodlands of the Coast Ranges and the Sierra Nevada mountains below 1000 m elevation.