Improving Learning Performance Through Rational Resource Allocation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gratch, J.; Chien, S.; DeJong, G.

1994-01-01

This article shows how rational analysis can be used to minimize learning cost for a general class of statistical learning problems. We discuss the factors that influence learning cost and show that the problem of efficient learning can be cast as a resource optimization problem. Solutions found in this way can be significantly more efficient than the best solutions that do not account for these factors. We introduce a heuristic learning algorithm that approximately solves this optimization problem and document its performance improvements on synthetic and real-world problems.

Design study to simulate the development of a commercial freight transportation system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Batill, Stephen M.; Costello, Kevin; Pinkelman, Jim

1992-01-01

The Notre Dame Aerospace Engineering senior class was divided into six design teams. A request for proposals (RFP) asking for the design of a remotely piloted vehicle (RPV) was given to the class, and each design team was responsible for designing, developing, producing, and presenting an RPV concept. The RFP called for the design of commercial freight transport RPV. The RFP provided a description of a fictitious world called 'Aeroworld'. Aeroworld's characteristics were scaled to provide the same types of challenges for RPV design that the real world market provides for the design of commercial aircraft. Fuel efficiency, range and payload capabilities, production and maintenance costs, and profitability are a few of the challenges that were addressed in this course. Each design team completed their project over the course of a semester by designing and flight testing a prototype, freight-carrying remotely piloted vehicle.

Intertransaction Class Association Rule Mining Based on Genetic Network Programming and Its Application to Stock Market Prediction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Yuchen; Mabu, Shingo; Shimada, Kaoru; Hirasawa, Kotaro

Intertransaction association rules have been reported to be useful in many fields such as stock market prediction, but still there are not so many efficient methods to dig them out from large data sets. Furthermore, how to use and measure these more complex rules should be considered carefully. In this paper, we propose a new intertransaction class association rule mining method based on Genetic Network Programming (GNP), which has the ability to overcome some shortages of Apriori-like based intertransaction association methods. Moreover, a general classifier model for intertransaction rules is also introduced. In experiments on the real world application of stock market prediction, the method shows its efficiency and ability to obtain good results and can bring more benefits with a suitable classifier considering larger interval span.

CARSVM: a class association rule-based classification framework and its application to gene expression data.

PubMed

Kianmehr, Keivan; Alhajj, Reda

2008-09-01

In this study, we aim at building a classification framework, namely the CARSVM model, which integrates association rule mining and support vector machine (SVM). The goal is to benefit from advantages of both, the discriminative knowledge represented by class association rules and the classification power of the SVM algorithm, to construct an efficient and accurate classifier model that improves the interpretability problem of SVM as a traditional machine learning technique and overcomes the efficiency issues of associative classification algorithms. In our proposed framework: instead of using the original training set, a set of rule-based feature vectors, which are generated based on the discriminative ability of class association rules over the training samples, are presented to the learning component of the SVM algorithm. We show that rule-based feature vectors present a high-qualified source of discrimination knowledge that can impact substantially the prediction power of SVM and associative classification techniques. They provide users with more conveniences in terms of understandability and interpretability as well. We have used four datasets from UCI ML repository to evaluate the performance of the developed system in comparison with five well-known existing classification methods. Because of the importance and popularity of gene expression analysis as real world application of the classification model, we present an extension of CARSVM combined with feature selection to be applied to gene expression data. Then, we describe how this combination will provide biologists with an efficient and understandable classifier model. The reported test results and their biological interpretation demonstrate the applicability, efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed model. From the results, it can be concluded that a considerable increase in classification accuracy can be obtained when the rule-based feature vectors are integrated in the learning process of the SVM algorithm. In the context of applicability, according to the results obtained from gene expression analysis, we can conclude that the CARSVM system can be utilized in a variety of real world applications with some adjustments.

Office of the CIO: Setting the Vision

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rinaldi, James J.

2006-01-01

This slide presentation reviews the vision of the Office of JPL's Chief Information Officer for future of information technology (IT) at JPL. This includes a strong working relation with industry to provide cost efficient and effective IT services. This includes a vision of taking desktop to the next level and the process to achieve it and ensuring that JPL becomes a world class IT provider.

Program Direction FY 2017 Budget At-A-Glance

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

None

2016-03-01

Program Direction enables EERE to maintain and support a world-class federal workforce to accomplish its mission of creating and sustaining American leadership in the sustainable transportation, renewable power, and energy efficiency sectors. The FY 2017 Program Direction budget request provides resources for program and project management, administrative support, contract administration, human capital management, headquarters and field site non-laboratory facilities and infrastructure, and contractor support.

National facilities study. Volume 4: Space operations facilities task group

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

The principal objectives of the National Facilities Study (NFS) were to: (1) determine where U.S. facilities do not meet national aerospace needs; (2) define new facilities required to make U.S. capabilities 'world class' where such improvements are in the national interest; (3) define where consolidation and phase-out of existing facilities is appropriate; and (4) develop a long-term national plan for world-class facility acquisition and shared usage. The Space Operations Facilities Task Group defined discrete tasks to accomplish the above objectives within the scope of the study. An assessment of national space operations facilities was conducted to determine the nation's capability to meet the requirements of space operations during the next 30 years. The mission model used in the study to define facility requirements is described in Volume 3. Based on this model, the major focus of the Task Group was to identify any substantive overlap or underutilization of space operations facilities and to identify any facility shortfalls that would necessitate facility upgrades or new facilities. The focus of this initial study was directed toward facility recommendations related to consolidations, closures, enhancements, and upgrades considered necessary to efficiently and effectively support the baseline requirements model. Activities related to identifying facility needs or recommendations for enhancing U.S. international competitiveness and achieving world-class capability, where appropriate, were deferred to a subsequent study phase.

Brazil's Exception to the World-Class University Movement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alperin, Juan Pablo

2013-01-01

The continued importance of university rankings has only served to fuel the growth of the "world-class" university movement. There is a growing impression that, in a globalised and interconnected world, no country can do without a world-class university. No country, that is, except Brazil. While Brazil has the resources necessary to…

Conceptual Learning in Social Studies Classroom: An Analysis of Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) Social Studies Questions with and without Concept

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kilinc, Emin

2012-01-01

We are living in a conceptual world which we build through both informal and systematic interaction. Concepts enable us to simplify and organize our environment and communicate efficiently with others. The learning of concepts is represented by a general idea, usually expressed by a word, which represent a class or group of things or actions…

NOAA's world-class weather and climate prediction center opens at

Science.gov Websites

StumbleUpon Digg More Destinations NOAA's world-class weather and climate prediction center opens at currents and large-scale rain and snow storms. Billions of earth observations from around the world flow operations. Investing in this center is an investment in our human capital, serving as a world class facility

Strategic Approach for Developing World-Class Universities in Egypt

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ahmed, Hanaa Ouda Khadri

2015-01-01

In the past decade, the term "world-class university" "WCU"--also called "globally competitive universities", "world-class", "elite", or "flagship" universities--has become a catch phrase, not simply for improving the quality of learning and research in higher education but also, more…

Creating world-class supply chains.

PubMed

Katzorke, M; Lee, W B

2000-08-01

This article will share knowledge in two areas: The elements of world-class supply chains and the linking processes from customers' customers to suppliers' suppliers and the management approaches needed to engage the people and the organization in an effective implementation process to achieve world-class status.

World Class Schools: An Evolving Concept.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jenkins, John M., Ed.; And Others

The concept of "world class," often used in reference to education, lacks a precise, universal definition. This book presents case studies of exemplary schools. The foreword by Fenwick W. English presents a developmental concept of world-class education, in which fair and comparable standards, with sufficient room for sociocultural…

American High Schools Can Be World Class.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chalker, Donald M.; Haynes, Richard M.; Smith, Mark

1999-01-01

Compares characteristics of high school educational systems from 10 countries with exemplary educational systems. Describes a resulting set of world class standards and observes the acceptance or rejection of these standards in the United States. Discusses world class practices in American high schools. Offers a starter agenda for delivering world…

Thoughts on the Role of Government in the Development of World-Class Universities in China

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Guangcai, Yan

2011-01-01

Looking at the rise of world-class universities through history, creating an institutional environment in which universities are relatively autonomous, while also ensuring effective material support from the government is essential for the formation of world-class universities. It is worth examining the deteriorating academic environment in China…

Development of a 66kV Class Rectifier Type Fault Current Limiter System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohkuma, Takeshi; Sato, Yoshibumi; Takahashi, Yoshihisa; Tokuda, Noriaki; Murai, Masaki; Nagasaki, Norihisa; Yuguchi, Kyousuke

A fault current limiter (FCL) is extensively expected to suppress fault current, particularly required for trunk power systems heavily connected high-voltage transmission lines, such as 500 kV class power system which constitutes the nucleus of the electric power system. By installing such FCL in the power system, the system interconnection is possible without the need to raise the capacity of the circuit breakers, and it is expected that FCLs may be used in more efficient power system design. For these reasons, FCLs based on various principles of operation have been developed in the world. In this paper, we have proposed a new type of FCL system, consisting of solid-state diodes, DC coil and bypass AC coil, and described the specification of distribution power system and 66 kV class FCL model. Also we have proposed a 66 kV class prototype single-phase model and the current limiting performance of this model was evaluated using a short circuit generator.

World-Class Higher Education (for Whom?)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Robertson, Susan L.

2012-01-01

The slogan "world-class education" is ubiquitous in education circles. This essay looks closely at who is advancing this idea, why, and where, and the kind of work it is asked to do. Though instruments for determining the world-class status of education institutions were first launched in the 1980s, they have grown exponentially in the past…

The Hurdles to Being World Class: Narrative Analysis of the World-Class University Project in Korea

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jang, Deok-Ho; Ryu, Kiung; Yi, Pilnam; Craig, Daniel A.

2016-01-01

This study examines the Korean Government's policy scheme of setting up the World-Class University (WCU) Project by investigating the perceptions of major actors, including WCU scholars and government officials. In-depth interviews were held with 18 WCU scholars and three government officials. Our findings suggest that the limits of the…

Learning classification with auxiliary probabilistic information

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Quang; Valizadegan, Hamed; Hauskrecht, Milos

2012-01-01

Finding ways of incorporating auxiliary information or auxiliary data into the learning process has been the topic of active data mining and machine learning research in recent years. In this work we study and develop a new framework for classification learning problem in which, in addition to class labels, the learner is provided with an auxiliary (probabilistic) information that reflects how strong the expert feels about the class label. This approach can be extremely useful for many practical classification tasks that rely on subjective label assessment and where the cost of acquiring additional auxiliary information is negligible when compared to the cost of the example analysis and labelling. We develop classification algorithms capable of using the auxiliary information to make the learning process more efficient in terms of the sample complexity. We demonstrate the benefit of the approach on a number of synthetic and real world data sets by comparing it to the learning with class labels only. PMID:25309141

Jean Baudrillard's Radical Thinking, and Its Potential Contribution to the Sociology of Higher Education Illustrated by Debates about "World-Class" Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blanco Ramírez, Gerardo

2016-01-01

This article presents an argument for re-reading Jean Baudrillard's ideas considering their potential contribution to the sociology of higher education, particularly in relation to contemporary debates about "world-class" universities. In order to apply Baudrillard's ideas, China's commitment to the development of "world-class"…

Learn ++.NC: combining ensemble of classifiers with dynamically weighted consult-and-vote for efficient incremental learning of new classes.

PubMed

Muhlbaier, Michael D; Topalis, Apostolos; Polikar, Robi

2009-01-01

We have previously introduced an incremental learning algorithm Learn(++), which learns novel information from consecutive data sets by generating an ensemble of classifiers with each data set, and combining them by weighted majority voting. However, Learn(++) suffers from an inherent "outvoting" problem when asked to learn a new class omega(new) introduced by a subsequent data set, as earlier classifiers not trained on this class are guaranteed to misclassify omega(new) instances. The collective votes of earlier classifiers, for an inevitably incorrect decision, then outweigh the votes of the new classifiers' correct decision on omega(new) instances--until there are enough new classifiers to counteract the unfair outvoting. This forces Learn(++) to generate an unnecessarily large number of classifiers. This paper describes Learn(++).NC, specifically designed for efficient incremental learning of multiple new classes using significantly fewer classifiers. To do so, Learn (++).NC introduces dynamically weighted consult and vote (DW-CAV), a novel voting mechanism for combining classifiers: individual classifiers consult with each other to determine which ones are most qualified to classify a given instance, and decide how much weight, if any, each classifier's decision should carry. Experiments on real-world problems indicate that the new algorithm performs remarkably well with substantially fewer classifiers, not only as compared to its predecessor Learn(++), but also as compared to several other algorithms recently proposed for similar problems.

National Facilities study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

This study provides a set of recommendations for improving the effectiveness of our nation's aeronautics and space facilities. The study plan considers current and future government and commercial needs as well as DOD and NASA mission requirements through the year 2023. It addresses shortfalls in existing capabilities, new facility requirements, upgrades, consolidations, and phase-out of existing facilities. If the recommendations are implemented, they will provide world-class capability where it is vital to our country's needs and make us more efficient in meeting future needs.

Joint the Center for Applied Scientific Computing

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gamblin, Todd; Bremer, Timo; Van Essen, Brian

The Center for Applied Scientific Computing serves as Livermore Lab’s window to the broader computer science, computational physics, applied mathematics, and data science research communities. In collaboration with academic, industrial, and other government laboratory partners, we conduct world-class scientific research and development on problems critical to national security. CASC applies the power of high-performance computing and the efficiency of modern computational methods to the realms of stockpile stewardship, cyber and energy security, and knowledge discovery for intelligence applications.

Graduates | Argonne National Laboratory

Science.gov Websites

Staff Directory Argonne National Laboratory Educational Programs Connecting today's world-class research , Argonne is the place to be if you are a graduate student. With access to world-class facilities and world -reknowned researchers, graduate students at Argonne can taste the best of the research and development world

Optimal Learning Paths in Information Networks

PubMed Central

Rodi, G. C.; Loreto, V.; Servedio, V. D. P.; Tria, F.

2015-01-01

Each sphere of knowledge and information could be depicted as a complex mesh of correlated items. By properly exploiting these connections, innovative and more efficient navigation strategies could be defined, possibly leading to a faster learning process and an enduring retention of information. In this work we investigate how the topological structure embedding the items to be learned can affect the efficiency of the learning dynamics. To this end we introduce a general class of algorithms that simulate the exploration of knowledge/information networks standing on well-established findings on educational scheduling, namely the spacing and lag effects. While constructing their learning schedules, individuals move along connections, periodically revisiting some concepts, and sometimes jumping on very distant ones. In order to investigate the effect of networked information structures on the proposed learning dynamics we focused both on synthetic and real-world graphs such as subsections of Wikipedia and word-association graphs. We highlight the existence of optimal topological structures for the simulated learning dynamics whose efficiency is affected by the balance between hubs and the least connected items. Interestingly, the real-world graphs we considered lead naturally to almost optimal learning performances. PMID:26030508

Designing and Using Projects with Real World Application in a MBA Managerial Accounting Class: The Case of The Balanced Scorecard

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Houke, Charlotte

2017-01-01

This paper explores the purpose of designing and using projects with real world application in a M.B.A. managerial accounting class. Included is a discussion of how and why the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) Project has been used in classes to link theory with practice by providing real world application of the BSC framework. M.B.A. students represent a…

Strategic Planning towards a World-Class University

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Usoh, E. J.; Ratu, D.; Manongko, A.; Taroreh, J.; Preston, G.

2018-02-01

Strategic planning with a focus on world-class university status is an option that cannot be avoided by universities today to survive and succeed in competition as a provider of higher education. The objective of this research is to obtain exploratory research results on the strategic plans of universities that are prepared to generate world-class university status. This research utilised exploratory qualitative research method and data was collected by in-depth interviews method. Interview transcripts were analyzed by using thematic content analysis through NVivo software analysis and manual systems. The main finding of interview shows that most interviewees agreed that UNIMA has been engaged in strategic planning. Contribution from faculties and schools are acknowledged and inform the planning process. However, a new model of strategic planning should be adopted by UNIMA due to the shift towards a “corporate university”. The finding results from documents, literature review and interview were the addition of world-class university characteristics and features to current strategic planning of UNIMA and how to upgrade by considering to use the characteristics and features towards world-class university.

The systems engineering upgrade intiative at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Ross M.

2005-01-01

JPL is implementing an initiative to significantly upgrade our systems engineering capabilities. This Systems Engineering Upgrade Initiative [SUI] has been authorized by the highest level technical management body of JPL and is sponsored with internal funds. The SUI objective is to upgrade system engineering at JPL to a level that is world class, professional and efficient compared to the FY04/05 baseline. JPL system engineering, along with the other engineering disciplines, is intended to support optimum designs; controlled and efficient implementations; and high quality, reliable, cost effective products. SUI technical activities are categorized into those dealing with people, process and tools. The purpose of this paper is to describe the rationale, objectives/plans and current status of the JPL SUI.

The Effects of Student Involvement and College Environment on Students' Learning and Living Experience at World-Class Research Universities in China: A Comparative Case Study of the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chan, Roy Yew-Hung

2011-01-01

This comparative research examined the effects of student involvement and college environment on students' learning and living experience delivered by two aspiring world-class universities in Hong Kong and Shanghai. Few studies have shown how the levels of student involvement and college environment can benefit students at world-class institution.…

New approaches for Helicobacter vaccine development--difficulties and progress.

PubMed

Jagusztyn-Krynicka, Elzbieta K; Godlewska, Renata

2008-01-01

Despite the enormous progress in understanding the process of bacterial pathogenesis and interactions of pathogens with eucaryotic cells the infectious diseases still remain the main cause of human premature deaths. It is now recognized that Helicobacter pylori infects about half of the world's population. Based on results of clinical studies the World Health Organization has assigned H. pylori as a class I carcinogen. The review presents new achievements aimed at construction efficient and safe anti-Helicobacter vaccine. We discuss the new global technologies such as immunoproteomics employed for selecting new candidates for vaccine construction as well as new vaccine delivery systems. The review presents also our knowledge concerning H. pylori interaction with immune system which might facilitate modulation of the host immune system by specific adjuvant included into vaccine.

World War II: A Technology Lesson Plan.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hagar, Suzy

1990-01-01

Presents a class activity on the history, causes, and consequences of World War II. Focuses on the development and deployment of the atomic bomb. Utilizes a Video Encyclopedia Program for historical background. Divides the class into groups that are responsible for researching and preparing a videotape on a World War II topic. (RW)

Green Routing Fuel Saving Opportunity Assessment: A Case Study on California Large-Scale Real-World Travel Data: Preprint

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhu, Lei; Holden, Jacob; Gonder, Jeff

New technologies, such as connected and automated vehicles, have attracted more and more researchers for improving the energy efficiency and environmental impact of current transportation systems. The green routing strategy instructs a vehicle to select the most fuel-efficient route before the vehicle departs. It benefits the current transportation system with fuel saving opportunity through identifying the greenest route. This paper introduces an evaluation framework for estimating benefits of green routing based on large-scale, real-world travel data. The framework has the capability to quantify fuel savings by estimating the fuel consumption of actual routes and comparing to routes procured by navigationmore » systems. A route-based fuel consumption estimation model, considering road traffic conditions, functional class, and road grade is proposed and used in the framework. An experiment using a large-scale data set from the California Household Travel Survey global positioning system trajectory data base indicates that 31% of actual routes have fuel savings potential with a cumulative estimated fuel savings of 12%.« less

Green Routing Fuel Saving Opportunity Assessment: A Case Study on California Large-Scale Real-World Travel Data

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhu, Lei; Holden, Jacob; Gonder, Jeffrey D

New technologies, such as connected and automated vehicles, have attracted more and more researchers for improving the energy efficiency and environmental impact of current transportation systems. The green routing strategy instructs a vehicle to select the most fuel-efficient route before the vehicle departs. It benefits the current transportation system with fuel saving opportunity through identifying the greenest route. This paper introduces an evaluation framework for estimating benefits of green routing based on large-scale, real-world travel data. The framework has the capability to quantify fuel savings by estimating the fuel consumption of actual routes and comparing to routes procured by navigationmore » systems. A route-based fuel consumption estimation model, considering road traffic conditions, functional class, and road grade is proposed and used in the framework. An experiment using a large-scale data set from the California Household Travel Survey global positioning system trajectory data base indicates that 31% of actual routes have fuel savings potential with a cumulative estimated fuel savings of 12%.« less

MetaSEEk: a content-based metasearch engine for images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beigi, Mandis; Benitez, Ana B.; Chang, Shih-Fu

1997-12-01

Search engines are the most powerful resources for finding information on the rapidly expanding World Wide Web (WWW). Finding the desired search engines and learning how to use them, however, can be very time consuming. The integration of such search tools enables the users to access information across the world in a transparent and efficient manner. These systems are called meta-search engines. The recent emergence of visual information retrieval (VIR) search engines on the web is leading to the same efficiency problem. This paper describes and evaluates MetaSEEk, a content-based meta-search engine used for finding images on the Web based on their visual information. MetaSEEk is designed to intelligently select and interface with multiple on-line image search engines by ranking their performance for different classes of user queries. User feedback is also integrated in the ranking refinement. We compare MetaSEEk with a base line version of meta-search engine, which does not use the past performance of the different search engines in recommending target search engines for future queries.

Greenhouse gas mitigation in a carbon constrained world - the role of CCS in Germany

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schumacher, Katja; Sands, Ronald D.

2009-01-05

In a carbon constrained world, at least four classes of greenhouse gas mitigation options are available: energy efficiency, switching to low or carbon-free energy sources, introduction of carbon dioxide capture and storage along with electric generating technologies, and reductions in emissions of non-CO2 greenhouse gases. The contribution of each option to overall greenhouse gas mitigation varies by cost, scale, and timing. In particular, carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) promises to allow for low-emissions fossil-fuel based power generation. This is particularly relevant for Germany, where electricity generation is largely coal-based and, at the same time, ambitious climate targets are inmore » place. Our objective is to provide a balanced analysis of the various classes of greenhouse gas mitigation options with a particular focus on CCS for Germany. We simulate the potential role of advanced fossil fuel based electricity generating technologies with CCS (IGCC, NGCC) as well the potential for retrofit with CCS for existing and currently built fossil plants from the present through 2050. We employ a computable general equilibrium (CGE) economic model as a core model and integrating tool.« less

The Visions of World-Class Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Slyusarenko, Olena

2015-01-01

The visions of the top 26 world-class universities of the first 30 in the Shanghai ranking list have been evaluated and compared with the missions of the world's top 20 universities. Applying the content analysis, a group of 48 keywords, which describe the essence of these visions, has been revealed. The average amount of keywords in one vision is…

Learning Efficient Spatial-Temporal Gait Features with Deep Learning for Human Identification.

PubMed

Liu, Wu; Zhang, Cheng; Ma, Huadong; Li, Shuangqun

2018-02-06

The integration of the latest breakthroughs in bioinformatics technology from one side and artificial intelligence from another side, enables remarkable advances in the fields of intelligent security guard computational biology, healthcare, and so on. Among them, biometrics based automatic human identification is one of the most fundamental and significant research topic. Human gait, which is a biometric features with the unique capability, has gained significant attentions as the remarkable characteristics of remote accessed, robust and security in the biometrics based human identification. However, the existed methods cannot well handle the indistinctive inter-class differences and large intra-class variations of human gait in real-world situation. In this paper, we have developed an efficient spatial-temporal gait features with deep learning for human identification. First of all, we proposed a gait energy image (GEI) based Siamese neural network to automatically extract robust and discriminative spatial gait features for human identification. Furthermore, we exploit the deep 3-dimensional convolutional networks to learn the human gait convolutional 3D (C3D) as the temporal gait features. Finally, the GEI and C3D gait features are embedded into the null space by the Null Foley-Sammon Transform (NFST). In the new space, the spatial-temporal features are sufficiently combined with distance metric learning to drive the similarity metric to be small for pairs of gait from the same person, and large for pairs from different persons. Consequently, the experiments on the world's largest gait database show our framework impressively outperforms state-of-the-art methods.

Mutations of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Durham, Santa-Maria and A+ Variants Are Associated with Loss Functional and Structural Stability of the Protein

PubMed Central

Gómez-Manzo, Saúl; Marcial-Quino, Jaime; Vanoye-Carlo, America; Enríquez-Flores, Sergio; De la Mora-De la Mora, Ignacio; González-Valdez, Abigail; García-Torres, Itzhel; Martínez-Rosas, Víctor; Sierra-Palacios, Edgar; Lazcano-Pérez, Fernando; Rodríguez-Bustamante, Eduardo; Arreguin-Espinosa, Roberto

2015-01-01

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is the most common enzymopathy in the world. More than 160 mutations causing the disease have been identified, but only 10% of these variants have been studied at biochemical and biophysical levels. In this study we report on the functional and structural characterization of three naturally occurring variants corresponding to different classes of disease severity: Class I G6PD Durham, Class II G6PD Santa Maria, and Class III G6PD A+. The results showed that the G6PD Durham (severe deficiency), and the G6PD Santa Maria and A+ (less severe deficiency) (Class I, II and III, respectively) affect the catalytic efficiency of these enzymes, are more sensitive to temperature denaturing, and affect the stability of the overall protein when compared to the wild type WT-G6PD. In the variants, the exposure of more and buried hydrophobic pockets was induced and monitored with 8-Anilinonaphthalene-1-sulfonic acid (ANS) fluorescence, directly affecting the compaction of structure at different levels and probably reducing the stability of the protein. The degree of functional and structural perturbation by each variant correlates with the clinical severity reported in different patients. PMID:26633385

Personal Belief in a Just World, Experience of Teacher Justice, and School Distress in Different Class Contexts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peter, Felix; Dalbert, Claudia; Kloeckner, Nils; Radant, Matthias

2013-01-01

The study examined the meaning of personal belief in a just world and students' experience of their teachers' behavior toward them personally for school distress in different class contexts. The study involved 827 secondary school students from 61 classes (grades 9 to 11). Analyses revealed that the more the students believed in a…

Skills Verdict: Must Do Better

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Spilsbury, Mark

2010-01-01

"Ambition 2020: World Class Skills and Jobs" is the UK Commission for Employment and Skills' annual assessment, to the four UK nations, of their progress towards becoming "world class" in productivity, employment and skills by 2020. "Ambition 2020" provides a robust independent account of economic and skills…

Spatio-temporal networks: reachability, centrality and robustness.

PubMed

Williams, Matthew J; Musolesi, Mirco

2016-06-01

Recent advances in spatial and temporal networks have enabled researchers to more-accurately describe many real-world systems such as urban transport networks. In this paper, we study the response of real-world spatio-temporal networks to random error and systematic attack, taking a unified view of their spatial and temporal performance. We propose a model of spatio-temporal paths in time-varying spatially embedded networks which captures the property that, as in many real-world systems, interaction between nodes is non-instantaneous and governed by the space in which they are embedded. Through numerical experiments on three real-world urban transport systems, we study the effect of node failure on a network's topological, temporal and spatial structure. We also demonstrate the broader applicability of this framework to three other classes of network. To identify weaknesses specific to the behaviour of a spatio-temporal system, we introduce centrality measures that evaluate the importance of a node as a structural bridge and its role in supporting spatio-temporally efficient flows through the network. This exposes the complex nature of fragility in a spatio-temporal system, showing that there is a variety of failure modes when a network is subject to systematic attacks.

Following the Leader? Network Models of "World-Class" Universities on Twitter

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shields, Robin

2016-01-01

Much research on higher education has discussed the positional competition induced by global rankings and the complementary concept of "world-class" universities. This paper investigates the network of social media communication between globally ranked universities. Specifically, it examines whether universities seek to preserve and…

World Class Teachers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mitchell, Rosalita

1998-01-01

School communities are challenged to find ways to identify good teachers and give other teachers a chance to learn from them. The New Mexico World Class Teacher Project is encouraging teachers to pursue certification by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. This process sharpens teachers' student assessment skills and encourages…

Confirmatory factors analysis of science teacher leadership in the Thailand world-class standard schools

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thawinkarn, Dawruwan

2018-01-01

This research aims to analyze factors of science teacher leadership in the Thailand World-Class Standard Schools. The research instrument was a five scale rating questionnaire with reliability 0.986. The sample group included 500 science teachers from World-Class Standard Schools who had been selected by using the stratified random sampling technique. Factor analysis of science teacher leadership in the Thailand World-Class Standard Schools was conducted by using M plus for Windows. The results are as follows: The results of confirmatory factor analysis on science teacher leadership in the Thailand World-Class Standard Schools revealed that the model significantly correlated with the empirical data. The consistency index value was x2 = 105.655, df = 88, P-Value = 0.086, TLI = 0.997, CFI = 0.999, RMSEA = 0.022, and SRMR = 0.019. The value of factor loading of science teacher leadership was positive, with statistical significance at the level of 0.01. The value of six factors was between 0.880-0.996. The highest factor loading was the professional learning community, followed by child-centered instruction, participation in development, the role model in teaching, transformational leaders, and self-development with factor loading at 0.996, 0.928, 0.911, 0.907, 0.901, and 0.871, respectively. The reliability of each factor was 99.1%, 86.0%, 83.0%, 82.2%, 81.0%, and 75.8%, respectively.

The contradictory logic of global ecosystem services markets.

PubMed

McAfee, Kathleen

2012-01-01

Commodification and transnational trading of ecosystem services is the most ambitious iteration yet of the strategy of ‘selling nature to save it’. The World Bank and UN agencies contend that global carbon markets can slow climate change while generating resources for development. Consonant with ‘inclusionary’ versions of neoliberal development policy, advocates assert that international payment for ecosystem services (PES) projects, financed by carbon-offset sales and biodiversity banking, can benefit the poor. However, the World Bank also warns that a focus on poverty reduction can undermine efficiency in conservation spending. The experience of ten years of PES illustrates how, in practice, market-efficiency criteria clash directly with poverty-reduction priorities. Nevertheless, the premises of market-based PES are being extrapolated as a model for global REDD programmes financed by carbon-offset trading. This article argues that the contradiction between development and conservation observed in PES is inevitable in projects framed by the asocial logic of neoclassical economics. Application in international conservation policy of the market model, in which profit incentives depend upon differential opportunity costs, will entail a net upward redistribution of wealth from poorer to wealthier classes and from rural regions to distant centres of capital accumulation, mainly in the global North.

Manipulating Light to Understand and Improve Solar Cells (494th Brookhaven Lecture)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Eisaman, Matthew

2014-04-16

Energy consumption around the world is projected to approximately triple by the end of the century, according to the 2005 Report from the U.S. Department of Energy's Basic Energy Sciences Workshop on Solar Energy Utilization. Much will change in those next 86 years, but for all the power the world needs—for everything from manufacturing and transportation to air conditioning and charging cell phone batteries—improved solar cells will be crucial to meet this future energy demand with renewable energy sources. At Brookhaven Lab, scientists are probing solar cells and exploring variations within the cells—variations that are so small they are measuredmore » in billionths of a meter—in order to make increasingly efficient solar cells and ultimately help reduce the overall costs of deploying solar power plants. Dr. Eisaman will discuss DOE's Sunshot Initiative, which aims to reduce the cost of solar cell-generated electricity by 2020. He will also discuss how he and collaborators at Brookhaven Lab are probing different material compositions within solar cells, measuring how efficiently they collect electrical charge, helping to develop a new class of solar cells, and improving solar-cell manufacturing processes.« less

Paths for World-Class Universities in Agricultural Science

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Zhimin; Kipchumba, Simon Kibet; Liu, Lu

2016-01-01

The top-ranking world-class universities in agricultural science denote those universities which are globally popular with agriculture-related subjects. The paper synthesizes the results of three different ranking scales (NTU, QS and ARWU) of top 50 universities in agriculture subject in 2013. The overlapped parts have been synchronized to derive…

Developing the Vision: Preparing Teachers to Deliver a Digital World-Class Education System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lane, Jenny M.

2012-01-01

In 2008 Australians were promised a "Digital Education Revolution" by the government to dramatically change classroom education and build a "world-class education system". Eight billion dollars have been spent providing computer equipment for upper secondary classrooms, yet there is little evidence that a revolution has…

Teacher Justice and Students’ Class Identification: Belief in a Just World and Teacher–Student Relationship as Mediators

PubMed Central

Jiang, Ronghuan; Liu, Ru-De; Ding, Yi; Zhen, Rui; Sun, Yan; Fu, Xinchen

2018-01-01

For school-age adolescents, teacher justice plays an important role in their learning and social outcomes. The present study examined the relation between teacher justice and students’ class identification in 1735 Chinese school-age adolescents by considering belief in a just world (BJW) and teacher–student relationship as mediators. Structure equation modeling (SEM) was used to reveal the direct and indirect effects. The analyses showed that all the direct and indirect effects were significant. These findings indicated that teacher justice had a positive effect on students’ class identification. In addition, teacher justice impacted students’ class identification through students’ just-world belief and teacher–student relationships. These results suggested that for adolescents, teacher justice played an important role in shaping their just-world belief system and their interpersonal relationships with teachers, which in turn affected their sense of belonging and values in relation to their class. Thus, it is important for teachers to be aware that their injustice may negatively impact their relationships with students, students’ belief systems, and their psychological engagement at school. There is a need to develop teacher-training programs to help teachers to establish classroom reward-punishment systems with the consideration of social justice, to communicate with students through an unbiased approach, and to increase student participation in the important decision making of the whole class. PMID:29875726

Teacher Justice and Students' Class Identification: Belief in a Just World and Teacher-Student Relationship as Mediators.

PubMed

Jiang, Ronghuan; Liu, Ru-De; Ding, Yi; Zhen, Rui; Sun, Yan; Fu, Xinchen

2018-01-01

For school-age adolescents, teacher justice plays an important role in their learning and social outcomes. The present study examined the relation between teacher justice and students' class identification in 1735 Chinese school-age adolescents by considering belief in a just world (BJW) and teacher-student relationship as mediators. Structure equation modeling (SEM) was used to reveal the direct and indirect effects. The analyses showed that all the direct and indirect effects were significant. These findings indicated that teacher justice had a positive effect on students' class identification. In addition, teacher justice impacted students' class identification through students' just-world belief and teacher-student relationships. These results suggested that for adolescents, teacher justice played an important role in shaping their just-world belief system and their interpersonal relationships with teachers, which in turn affected their sense of belonging and values in relation to their class. Thus, it is important for teachers to be aware that their injustice may negatively impact their relationships with students, students' belief systems, and their psychological engagement at school. There is a need to develop teacher-training programs to help teachers to establish classroom reward-punishment systems with the consideration of social justice, to communicate with students through an unbiased approach, and to increase student participation in the important decision making of the whole class.

A dual-mode highly efficient class-E stimulator controlled by a low-Q class-E power amplifier through duty cycle.

PubMed

Chiu, Hung-Wei; Lu, Chien-Chi; Chuang, Jia-min; Lin, Wei-Tso; Lin, Chii-Wann; Kao, Ming-Chien; Lin, Mu-Lien

2013-06-01

This paper presents the design flow of two high-efficiency class-E amplifiers for the implantable electrical stimulation system. The implantable stimulator is a high-Q class-E driver that delivers a sine-wave pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation, which was verified to have a superior efficacy in pain relief to a square wave. The proposed duty-cycle-controlled class-E PRF driver designed with a high-Q factor has two operational modes that are able to achieve 100% DC-AC conversion, and involves only one switched series inductor and an unchanged parallel capacitor. The measured output amplitude under low-voltage (LV) mode using a 22% duty cycle was 0.98 V with 91% efficiency, and under high-voltage (HV) mode using a 47% duty cycle was 2.95 V with 92% efficiency. These modes were inductively controlled by a duty-cycle detector, which can detect the duty-cycle modulated signal generated from the external complementary low-Q class-E power amplifier (PA). The design methodology of the low-Q inductive interface for a non-50% duty cycle is presented. The experimental results exhibits that the 1.5-V PA that consumes DC power of 14.21 mW was able to deliver a 2.9-V sine wave to a 500 Ω load. The optimal 60% drain efficiency of the system from the PA to the load was obtained at a 10-mm coupling distance.

Adaptive random walks on the class of Web graphs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tadić, B.

2001-09-01

We study random walk with adaptive move strategies on a class of directed graphs with variable wiring diagram. The graphs are grown from the evolution rules compatible with the dynamics of the world-wide Web [B. Tadić, Physica A 293, 273 (2001)], and are characterized by a pair of power-law distributions of out- and in-degree for each value of the parameter β, which measures the degree of rewiring in the graph. The walker adapts its move strategy according to locally available information both on out-degree of the visited node and in-degree of target node. A standard random walk, on the other hand, uses the out-degree only. We compute the distribution of connected subgraphs visited by an ensemble of walkers, the average access time and survival probability of the walks. We discuss these properties of the walk dynamics relative to the changes in the global graph structure when the control parameter β is varied. For β≥ 3, corresponding to the world-wide Web, the access time of the walk to a given level of hierarchy on the graph is much shorter compared to the standard random walk on the same graph. By reducing the amount of rewiring towards rigidity limit β↦βc≲ 0.1, corresponding to the range of naturally occurring biochemical networks, the survival probability of adaptive and standard random walk become increasingly similar. The adaptive random walk can be used as an efficient message-passing algorithm on this class of graphs for large degree of rewiring.

Efficient least angle regression for identification of linear-in-the-parameters models

PubMed Central

Beach, Thomas H.; Rezgui, Yacine

2017-01-01

Least angle regression, as a promising model selection method, differentiates itself from conventional stepwise and stagewise methods, in that it is neither too greedy nor too slow. It is closely related to L1 norm optimization, which has the advantage of low prediction variance through sacrificing part of model bias property in order to enhance model generalization capability. In this paper, we propose an efficient least angle regression algorithm for model selection for a large class of linear-in-the-parameters models with the purpose of accelerating the model selection process. The entire algorithm works completely in a recursive manner, where the correlations between model terms and residuals, the evolving directions and other pertinent variables are derived explicitly and updated successively at every subset selection step. The model coefficients are only computed when the algorithm finishes. The direct involvement of matrix inversions is thereby relieved. A detailed computational complexity analysis indicates that the proposed algorithm possesses significant computational efficiency, compared with the original approach where the well-known efficient Cholesky decomposition is involved in solving least angle regression. Three artificial and real-world examples are employed to demonstrate the effectiveness, efficiency and numerical stability of the proposed algorithm. PMID:28293140

An Online, Interactive Renewable Energy Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Leary, D. A.; Shattuck, J.; Kubby, J.

2012-01-01

An undergraduate introductory science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) class can be a jarring disappointment to new students expecting to work with cutting-edge, real-world technology. Their cell phones are often more technically advanced and real-world than the tools used in a class lab. Not surprisingly, many complain that the STEM labs…

The Global Quest to Build World-Class Universities: Toward a Social Justice Agenda

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rhoads, Robert A.; Li, Shuai; Ilano, Lauren

2014-01-01

This chapter provides a critical perspective on the global quest to build world-class universities (WCUs), including global "ranking mania," excessive emphasis on university branding, and the attending threats to the traditional public good mission of the university. Alternatively, we offer suggestions on how rankings may be used to…

World-Class Higher Education and the Emerging Chinese Model of the University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Li, Jun

2012-01-01

China's recent quest to develop world-class universities is a significant phenomenon within the worldwide transformation of tertiary education. Taking a cultural approach and drawing on empirical findings, this article investigates the emerging Chinese model of the university, considering its key features and contributions to global communities.…

Achieving Recognition as a World Class Airport through Education and Training. Sorenson Best Paper Award Recipient.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Quilty, Stephen M.

2003-01-01

The International Civil Aviation Organization has standards for airport certification that require education and training of personnel. The American Association of Airport Executives offers accreditation and certification in airport operations and safety that can meet the needs of world-class airports. (Contains 18 references.) (SK)

An International Model of World-Class Education: The International Baccalaureate

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hill, Ian

2012-01-01

This article posits that world-class education is international education, as defined by UNESCO, and presents International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes as examples of this phenomenon. It begins with the IB's 1960s origins in international schools, which educated the children of globally mobile parents who worked principally in the UN and its…

Teaching internet use to adult learners: The LANL experience

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smith, S.; Comstock, D.

The Research library at Los Alamos National Laboratory has been teaching an Internet class to adult learners since May 1994. The class is a team effort, combining lecture/demo with hands-on practice using Gopher and the World Wide Web. What started out as a small short-term project has become a weekly class available to any Lab employee or associate. More than 250 people have been taught to find basic reference materials and to navigate the Internet on the Gopher and World Wide Web. The class is one of the first classes offered by the Research Library to be filled every month,more » and one Laboratory group has recommended that their staff attend this class in preparation for more advanced Internet and HTML classes as part of their group training. The success of this class spurred development by the Research Library of more specific subject classes using Internet resources, specifically business and general science resources.« less

Phase-space interference in extensive and nonextensive quantum heat engines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hardal, Ali Ü. C.; Paternostro, Mauro; Müstecaplıoǧlu, Özgür E.

2018-04-01

Quantum interference is at the heart of what sets the quantum and classical worlds apart. We demonstrate that quantum interference effects involving a many-body working medium is responsible for genuinely nonclassical features in the performance of a quantum heat engine. The features with which quantum interference manifests itself in the work output of the engine depends strongly on the extensive nature of the working medium. While identifying the class of work substances that optimize the performance of the engine, our results shed light on the optimal size of such media of quantum workers to maximize the work output and efficiency of quantum energy machines.

Physics and Entrepreneurship: A Small Business Perspective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cleveland, Jason

2013-03-01

DARPA's Microsystems Technology Office, MTO, conceives and develops a wide range of technologies to benefit the US warfighter, from exotic GaN transistors to high-power fiber lasers, highly efficient embedded computer systems to synthetic biology. MTO has world class electrical and mechanical engineers, but we also have a cadre of extremely capable physicists, whose complementary skillset has been absolutely essential to identifying promising technological avenues for the office and for the agency. In this talk I will explain the DARPA model of technology development, using real examples from MTO, highlighting programs where physics-based insights have led to important new capabilities for the Dept of Defense.

Here's the beef: A case study in organizational transformation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huseonica, William F.; Giardino, Marco J.

1992-01-01

The Science and Technology Lab (STL) is tasked with the design, development, and application of the science and engineering services. Formed in the early 1970's STL adhered to many traditional attitudes including barriers to communication, excessive management control, parochial strategies, unclear measures of success, lack of customer focus, underutilization of people, and excessive administrative burdens on scientists and engineers. The challenge for the STL was to maximize customer satisfaction through the effective and efficient application of the notable skills and talents of the STL's workforce. In this way, the Lab would begin its exciting journey toward becoming world class. A discussion of this on-going transformation is presented.

A Typology of Ethnographic Scales for Virtual Worlds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boellstorff, Tom

This chapter outlines a typology of genres of ethnographic research with regard to virtual worlds, informed by extensive research the author has completed both in Second Life and in Indonesia. It begins by identifying four confusions about virtual worlds: they are not games, they need not be graphical or even visual, they are not mass media, and they need not be defined in terms of escapist role-playing. A three-part typology of methods for ethnographic research in virtual worlds focuses on the relationship between research design and ethnographic scale. One class of methods for researching virtual worlds with regard to ethnographic scale explores interfaces between virtual worlds and the actual world, whereas a second examines interfaces between two or more virtual worlds. The third class involves studying a single virtual world in its own terms. Recognizing that all three approaches have merit for particular research purposes, ethnography of virtual worlds can be a vibrant field of research, contributing to central debates about human selfhood and sociality.

Global Rankings, World-Class Universities and Dilemma in Higher Education Policy in India

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tilak, Jandhyala B. G.

2016-01-01

Global university rankings and world-class universities have become buzzwords almost in every country. Both exercise positive and not-so-positive impact on higher education systems. Universities everywhere are trying hard to improve their status and global rankings. The article reviews some of the important issues related to these two strongly…

In the Shadow of Celebrity? World-Class University Policies and Public Value in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cremonini, Leon; Westerheijden, Don F.; Benneworth, Paul; Dauncey, Hugh

2014-01-01

The growing popularity of the concept of world-class universities raises the question of whether investing in such universities is a worthwhile use of public resources. Does concentrating public resources on the most excellent universities improve the overall quality of a higher education system, especially if definitions of excellence and…

Building the World-Class Research Universities: A Case Study of China

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Huang, Futao

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study is to analyze how China has strived to develop its world-class research universities and what are distinguishing characteristics of China's efforts to form these universities for the last decades. This study begins with a review of literature and research questions. It then touches on the background and rationale of…

How to Make a Math Modeling Class from Scratch in Six (Not-So) Easy Steps

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gerhardt, Ira

2017-01-01

The recent introduction of a new course in mathematical modeling at Manhattan College has provided students with a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience utilizing tools in applying their mathematical abilities to a real-world problem. This paper describes the steps taken to create this class, from obtaining a real-world partner…

Quest for Building World-Class Universities in South Korea: Outcomes and Consequences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Byun, Kiyong; Jon, Jae-Eun; Kim, Dongbin

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study is to provide an overview of the Korean government's policies for building world class universities (WCUs) and their implications for Korean higher education institutions. Primarily through an extensive literature review, but also through a discussion of field interviews and the experiences of one of the authors as a…

Slushie World: An In-Class Access Database Tutorial

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wynn, Donald E., Jr.; Pratt, Renée M. E.

2015-01-01

The Slushie World case study is designed to teach the basics of Microsoft Access and database management over a series of three 75-minute class sessions. Students are asked to build a basic database to track sales and inventory for a small business. Skills to be learned include table creation, data entry and importing, form and report design,…

Is Iowa Educationally Competitive? Children and Iowa's Economic Future. Iowa Kids Count Special Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bruner, Charles; Crawford, Michael

2010-01-01

In 1991, the Child and Family Policy Center (CFPC) titled its first Iowa Kids Count Data Book "World-Class Futures." That year, Iowa ranked eighth among states in the national Kids Count Data Book, and the report warned against complacence. "World-Class Futures" drew comparisons between Iowa's child outcomes and those for some…

Initiatives for Change in Korean Higher Education: Quest for Excellence of World-Class Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kang, Jean S.

2015-01-01

The establishment of World-Class Universities (WCUs) is noted as a paramount development in the realm of international higher education. The integration of higher education into a more international scheme has enabled for higher education institutions (HEIs) to have a broader impact on the states and their respective citizens. This study examines…

Achieving World-Class Schools: Mastering School Improvement Using a Genetic Model.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kimmelman, Paul L.; Kroeze, David J.

In providing its program for education reform, this book uses, as an analogy, the genetic model taken from the Human Genome project. In the first part, "Theoretical Underpinnings," the book explains why a genetic model can be used to improve school systems; describes the critical components of a world-class school system; and details the…

Legitimating the World-Class University Concept through the Discourse of Elite Universities' Presidents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rodriguez-Pomeda, Jesus; Casani, Fernando

2016-01-01

Although well-renowned universities attempt to differentiate themselves from other universities, little research has been undertaken on the principal themes involved in the concept of the world-class university (WCU) as presented in speeches by members of WCUs. These discourses are a key tool in universities' attempt to shape the competitive…

Analysis and design of continuous class-E power amplifier at sub-nominal condition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Peng; Yang, Kai; Zhang, Tianliang

2017-12-01

The continuous class-E power amplifier at sub-nominal condition is proposed in this paper. The class-E power amplifier at continuous mode means it can be high efficient on a series matching networks while at sub-nominal condition means it only requires the zero-voltage-switching condition. Comparing with the classical class-E power amplifier, the proposed design method releases two additional design freedoms, which increase the class-E power amplifier's design flexibility. Also, the proposed continuous class-E power amplifier at sub-nominal condition can perform high efficiency over a broad bandwidth. The performance study of the continuous class-E power amplifier at sub-nominal condition is derived and the design procedure is summarised. The normalised switch voltage and current waveforms are investigated. Furthermore, the influences of different sub-nominal conditions on the power losses of the switch-on resistor and the output power capability are also discussed. A broadband continuous class-E power amplifier based on a Gallium Nitride (GaN) transistor is designed and testified to verify the proposed design methodology. The measurement results show, it can deliver 10-15 W output power with 64-73% power-added efficiency over 1.4-2.8 GHz.

Broadband linearisation of high-efficiency power amplifiers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kenington, Peter B.; Parsons, Kieran J.; Bennett, David W.

1993-01-01

A feedforward-based amplifier linearization technique is presented which is capable of yielding significant improvements in both linearity and power efficiency over conventional amplifier classes (e.g. class-A or class-AB). Theoretical and practical results are presented showing that class-C stages may be used for both the main and error amplifiers yielding practical efficiencies well in excess of 30 percent, with theoretical efficiencies of much greater than 40 percent being possible. The levels of linearity which may be achieved are required for most satellite systems, however if greater linearity is required, the technique may be used in addition to conventional pre-distortion techniques.

Managerial performance and cost efficiency of Japanese local public hospitals: a latent class stochastic frontier model.

PubMed

Besstremyannaya, Galina

2011-09-01

The paper explores the link between managerial performance and cost efficiency of 617 Japanese general local public hospitals in 1999-2007. Treating managerial performance as unobservable heterogeneity, the paper employs a panel data stochastic cost frontier model with latent classes. Financial parameters associated with better managerial performance are found to be positively significant in explaining the probability of belonging to the more efficient latent class. The analysis of latent class membership was consistent with the conjecture that unobservable technological heterogeneity reflected in the existence of the latent classes is related to managerial performance. The findings may support the cause for raising efficiency of Japanese local public hospitals by enhancing the quality of management. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Gas Turbine Heavy Hybrid Powertrain Variants. Opportunities and Potential for Systems Optimization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smith, David; Chambon, Paul H.

2015-07-01

Widespread use of alternative hybrid powertrains is currently inevitable, and many opportunities for substantial progress remain. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) have attracted considerable attention due to their potential to reduce petroleum consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector. This capability is mainly attributed to (a) the potential for downsizing the engine, (b) the potential for recovering energy during braking and thus recharging the energy storage unit, and (c) the ability to minimize the operation of the engine outside of its most efficient brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) regime. Hybridization of the Class 8, heavy-duty (HD) powertrain is inherentlymore » challenging due to the expected long-haul driving requirements and limited opportunities for regenerative braking. The objective of this project is to develop control strategies aiming at optimizing the operation of a Class 8 HEV that features a micro-turbine as the heat engine. The micro-turbine application shows promise in fuel efficiency, even when compared to current diesel engines, and can meet regulated exhaust emissions levels with no exhaust after-treatment system. Both parallel and series HEV variants will be examined to understand the merits of each approach of the micro-turbine to MD advanced powertrain applications. These powertrain configurations enable new paradigms in operational efficiency, particularly in the Class 8 truck fleet. The successful development of these HEV variants will require a thorough technical understanding of the complex interactions between various energy sources and energy consumption components, for various operating modes. PACCAR will be integrating the first generation of their series HEV powertrain with a Brayton Energy micro-turbine into a Class 8 HD truck tractor that has both regional haul and local pick-up and delivery (P&D) components to its drive cycle. The vehicle will be deployed into fleet operation for a demonstration period of six (6) months to assess real world operating benefits of the advanced powertrain. A parallel variant of the micro-turbine powertrain will be built and sent to the ORNL Vehicle Systems Integration Laboratory.« less

Creating a Culture of Innovation: The Challenge in Becoming and Staying a World-Class University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tierney, William G.

2014-01-01

In the 21st century world-class universities will need to be much more focused on innovation, rather than on stability and standardization. An innovative organization is different from a stable one. It requires different skills from its participants, and it functions in a different way from a stable organization. A focus on innovation will…

Race-Class Relations and Integration in Secondary Education: The Case of Miller High. Secondary Education in a Changing World

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eick, Caroline

2010-01-01

Eick explores the history of a comprehensive high school from the world views of its assorted student body, confronting issues of race, ethnicity, class, gender, nationality, and religion. Her case study examines the continuities and differences in student relationships over five decades. While she discusses the "dark side" of the high school…

Seeking a Roadmap to Becoming World Class: Strategic Planning at Peking University. Research & Occasional Paper Series: CSHE.11.13

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Guangkuan, Xie

2013-01-01

Strategic planning plays an important but sometimes controversial role in higher education. This paper examines how strategic planning works in Chinese universities, using Peking University as a case study. This essay discusses the rationale for why Peking University (PKU) decided to pursue status as a world-class university along with objectives…

Building World Class Universities in China: Exploring Faculty's Perceptions, Interpretations of and Struggles with Global Forces in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Dongbin; Song, Quirong; Liu, Ji; Liu, Qingqin; Grimm, Adam

2018-01-01

Employing a glonacal (global, national and local) heuristic as a theoretical lens, and a qualitative analysis with interview data, this study highlights how Chinese faculty members interpret the definitions and implications of pursuing world class universities (WCUs) and struggle with the multiple dimensions of their academic lives across global,…

Nearing World-Class: Singapore's Two Universities in QSWUR 2015/16

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Soh, Kaycheng

2016-01-01

Many universities strive to become world-class and two of Singapore's universities are almost there, being ranked 12th and 13th in the QSWUR 2015/16. This study looked into the details of indicator rankings and found that the two universities are comparable to those in the top 10 universities in the same ranking in practically all indicators with…

World Class: The Massachusetts Agenda to Meet the International Challenge for Math- and Science-Educated Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fortmann, Thomas

2005-01-01

This report draws on the findings of nearly four dozen others: national and international studies that speak with a strong, collective voice about what it takes to improve math and science education. But the authors' intent with "World Class" is not simply to synthesize those reports. It is to establish a statewide, working agenda for…

Building a World-Class Front-Line Workforce: The Need for Occupational Skill Standards in State Workforce Preparation Programs. EQW Working Papers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sheets, Robert G.

Establishment of a national-state system of world-class occupational skill standards is a first step in restructuring adult vocational-technical education and job training programs. Occupational skills standards provide the necessary foundation for addressing three major state policy issues: the state's proper role in private work-based training,…

Can BRICS Build Ivory Towers of Excellence? Giving New Meaning to World-Class Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

David, Solomon Arulraj; Motala, Shireen

2017-01-01

This paper aims to map the landscape of higher education transformation in the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) nations while exploring the status of BRICS nations in some of the global university rankings and analysing their potential to give new meaning to notions such as excellent and world-class universities. The study…

Securing World-Class Research in UK Universities: Exploring the Impact of Block Grant Funding

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Universities UK, 2009

2009-01-01

The UK research base is world class. It is second only to the USA on leading scientific indicators and crucially, during the current economic climate, ranks first on publication productivity and citations in relation to research and development public spend. Commonly known as quality-related (QR) funding because it is allocated selectively on the…

Integrating MRP (materiel requirements planning) II and JIT to achieve world-class status.

PubMed

Titone, R C

1994-05-01

The concepts and principles of using manufacturing resource planning (MRP II) for planning are not new. Their success has been proven in numerous manufacturing companies in America. The concepts and principles of using just-in-time (JIT) inventory for execution, while more recent, have also been available for some time, and their success in Japan well documented. However, it is the effective integration of these two powerful tools that open the way to achieving world-class manufacturing status. This article will utilize a newly developed world-class manufacturing model, which will review the aspects of planning, beginning with a business plan through the production planning process and culminating with a master schedule that drives a materiel/capacity plan. The importance and interrelationship of these functions are reviewed. The model then illustrates the important aspects of executing these plans beginning with people issues, through total quality control (TQC) and pull systems. We will then utilize this new functional model to demonstrate the relationship between these various functions and the importance of integrating them with a total comprehensive manufacturing strategy that will lead to world-class manufacturing and profits.

Anthropometric characteristics of top-class Olympic race walkers.

PubMed

Gomez-Ezeiza, Josu; Tam, Nicholas; Torres-Unda, Jon; Granados, Cristina; Santos-Concejero, Jordan

2018-04-20

Typical training programmes in elite race walkers involve high training volumes at low and moderate intensities, which have been reported to induce functional and structural adaptations at an anthropometric level. Since anthropometrical variables are closely related to movement efficiency and performance in endurance events, the aim of this study was to describe the anthropometric profile of world-class race walkers. Twenty-nine world-class race walkers (21 men & 8 women) participated in this study. Anthropometric characteristics, including height, body mass, eight skinfolds, five girths and four bone breadths were measured. Body composition, somatotype, somatotype dispersion mean, somatotype attitudinal mean and height to weight ratio, as well as skinfolds extremity to trunk ratio were also calculated. Mean height, body mass and body mass index were 177.1 ± 7.1 cm, 66.4 ± 5.8 kg, and21.2±1.3kg·m2 formenand165.6±4.5cm,53.6±3.7kg,and19.6±1.6kg·m2for women, respectively. Women presented greater body fat content (6.7 ± 0.6 vs. 12.2 ± 0.8%; very large effect), less muscle mass (65.6 ± 4.6 vs. 61.6 ± 2.6 kg; large effect), and were more endomorphic (large effect) than men. Men specialists in 20-km showed greater muscle mass (66.7 ± 4.9 vs. 64.4 ± 4.3 kg; moderate effect), and slightly higher skinfolds, girths, body fat content and were more mesomorphic than 50-km specialists (moderate effect). The present study expands the limited knowledge on the anthropometric characteristics and somatotype elements of elite top-class race walkers. The characterisation of the morphology of elite race walkers provides coaches a reference values to control the training development of the race walker, as well as providing reference values to improve talent identification.

Development of emission factors for motorcycles and shared auto-rickshaws using real-world driving cycle for a typical Indian city.

PubMed

Adak, Prasenjit; Sahu, Ravi; Elumalai, Suresh Pandian

2016-02-15

Vehicular emission is one of the most important contributors of urban air pollution. To quantify the impact of traffic on urban air quality, it is necessary to quantify vehicular emission. In many cities of India, such as Dhanbad, shared auto-rickshaw is the pre-dominant mode of transportation. Indian Driving Cycle (IDC) and Modified Indian Driving Cycle (MIDC) are used for emission testing of motorcycles, shared auto-rickshaws and passenger cars in India for regulatory purposes. IDC used for motorcycles and shared auto-rickshaws does not recognize the difference in two vehicle classes in terms of driving pattern. In real world, shared auto-rickshaws, behave differently than motorcycles. To quantify the impact of shared auto-rickshaws on urban air quality accurately, emission factors (EFs) are required to derive from real-world driving cycles (DCs). In heterogeneous traffic, vehicles of one class affect the behavior of vehicles of other classes. To estimate the emissions from different vehicle classes accurately, EFs for motorcycles and passenger cars are also required to be revised. In this study, real-world DCs were developed for motorcycles, shared auto-rickshaws and passenger cars in Dhanbad. Developed DCs were used to calculate EFs for respective classes. Shared auto-rickshaws were found to have the highest deviation from EFs derived using IDC. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

New fuzzy support vector machine for the class imbalance problem in medical datasets classification.

PubMed

Gu, Xiaoqing; Ni, Tongguang; Wang, Hongyuan

2014-01-01

In medical datasets classification, support vector machine (SVM) is considered to be one of the most successful methods. However, most of the real-world medical datasets usually contain some outliers/noise and data often have class imbalance problems. In this paper, a fuzzy support machine (FSVM) for the class imbalance problem (called FSVM-CIP) is presented, which can be seen as a modified class of FSVM by extending manifold regularization and assigning two misclassification costs for two classes. The proposed FSVM-CIP can be used to handle the class imbalance problem in the presence of outliers/noise, and enhance the locality maximum margin. Five real-world medical datasets, breast, heart, hepatitis, BUPA liver, and pima diabetes, from the UCI medical database are employed to illustrate the method presented in this paper. Experimental results on these datasets show the outperformed or comparable effectiveness of FSVM-CIP.

An Effective News Recommendation Method for Microblog User

PubMed Central

Gu, Wanrong; Dong, Shoubin; Zeng, Zhizhao; He, Jinchao

2014-01-01

Recommending news stories to users, based on their preferences, has long been a favourite domain for recommender systems research. Traditional systems strive to satisfy their user by tracing users' reading history and choosing the proper candidate news articles to recommend. However, most of news websites hardly require any user to register before reading news. Besides, the latent relations between news and microblog, the popularity of particular news, and the news organization are not addressed or solved efficiently in previous approaches. In order to solve these issues, we propose an effective personalized news recommendation method based on microblog user profile building and sub class popularity prediction, in which we propose a news organization method using hybrid classification and clustering, implement a sub class popularity prediction method, and construct user profile according to our actual situation. We had designed several experiments compared to the state-of-the-art approaches on a real world dataset, and the experimental results demonstrate that our system significantly improves the accuracy and diversity in mass text data. PMID:24983011

Role models for complex networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reichardt, J.; White, D. R.

2007-11-01

We present a framework for automatically decomposing (“block-modeling”) the functional classes of agents within a complex network. These classes are represented by the nodes of an image graph (“block model”) depicting the main patterns of connectivity and thus functional roles in the network. Using a first principles approach, we derive a measure for the fit of a network to any given image graph allowing objective hypothesis testing. From the properties of an optimal fit, we derive how to find the best fitting image graph directly from the network and present a criterion to avoid overfitting. The method can handle both two-mode and one-mode data, directed and undirected as well as weighted networks and allows for different types of links to be dealt with simultaneously. It is non-parametric and computationally efficient. The concepts of structural equivalence and modularity are found as special cases of our approach. We apply our method to the world trade network and analyze the roles individual countries play in the global economy.

Total Bregman Divergence and its Applications to Shape Retrieval.

PubMed

Liu, Meizhu; Vemuri, Baba C; Amari, Shun-Ichi; Nielsen, Frank

2010-01-01

Shape database search is ubiquitous in the world of biometric systems, CAD systems etc. Shape data in these domains is experiencing an explosive growth and usually requires search of whole shape databases to retrieve the best matches with accuracy and efficiency for a variety of tasks. In this paper, we present a novel divergence measure between any two given points in [Formula: see text] or two distribution functions. This divergence measures the orthogonal distance between the tangent to the convex function (used in the definition of the divergence) at one of its input arguments and its second argument. This is in contrast to the ordinate distance taken in the usual definition of the Bregman class of divergences [4]. We use this orthogonal distance to redefine the Bregman class of divergences and develop a new theory for estimating the center of a set of vectors as well as probability distribution functions. The new class of divergences are dubbed the total Bregman divergence (TBD). We present the l 1 -norm based TBD center that is dubbed the t-center which is then used as a cluster center of a class of shapes The t-center is weighted mean and this weight is small for noise and outliers. We present a shape retrieval scheme using TBD and the t-center for representing the classes of shapes from the MPEG-7 database and compare the results with other state-of-the-art methods in literature.

A hybrid method for prediction and repositioning of drug Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classes.

PubMed

Chen, Lei; Lu, Jing; Zhang, Ning; Huang, Tao; Cai, Yu-Dong

2014-04-01

In the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification system, therapeutic drugs are divided into 14 main classes according to the organ or system on which they act and their chemical, pharmacological and therapeutic properties. This system, recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), provides a global standard for classifying medical substances and serves as a tool for international drug utilization research to improve quality of drug use. In view of this, it is necessary to develop effective computational prediction methods to identify the ATC-class of a given drug, which thereby could facilitate further analysis of this system. In this study, we initiated an attempt to develop a prediction method and to gain insights from it by utilizing ontology information of drug compounds. Since only about one-fourth of drugs in the ATC classification system have ontology information, a hybrid prediction method combining the ontology information, chemical interaction information and chemical structure information of drug compounds was proposed for the prediction of drug ATC-classes. As a result, by using the Jackknife test, the 1st prediction accuracies for identifying the 14 main ATC-classes in the training dataset, the internal validation dataset and the external validation dataset were 75.90%, 75.70% and 66.36%, respectively. Analysis of some samples with false-positive predictions in the internal and external validation datasets indicated that some of them may even have a relationship with the false-positive predicted ATC-class, suggesting novel uses of these drugs. It was conceivable that the proposed method could be used as an efficient tool to identify ATC-classes of novel drugs or to discover novel uses of known drugs.

LEARNING EFFICIENCY AS A FUNCTION OF DEPICTION, VERBALIZATION, GRADE AND SOCIAL CLASS.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

ROHWER, WILLIAM D., JR.; AND OTHERS

LEARNING EFFICIENCY AS A FUNCTION OF DEPICTION, VERBALIZATION, GRADE LEVEL, AND SOCIAL CLASS WAS EXPLORED BY ASKING 384 KINDERGARTEN, FIRST-, THIRD-, AND SIXTH-GRADE CHILDREN FROM BOTH MIDDLE-CLASS AND LOWER-CLASS AREAS TO LEARN A LIST OF 24 PAIRED ASSOCIATES. ALL PAIRS WERE PRESENTED PICTORIALLY BY A STUDY-TEST METHOD FOR TWO LEARNING TRIALS. THE…

Research and Publication on the World Wide Web: A Fifth Grade Class' Experience.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Neal, Nancy L.

The World Wide Web (WWW) has become a major presence on the Internet, and teachers are just beginning to discover many valuable applications the Web can have in their classrooms. This study explored use of WWW as a research and publication tool in a fifth grade class project on the formation of the United States. Students were given instruction in…

An Analysis of Mobility in Global Rankings: Making Institutional Strategic Plans and Positioning for Building World-Class Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hou, Angela Yung Chi; Morse, Robert; Chiang, Chung-Lin

2012-01-01

Since the start of the twenty-first century, university rankings have become internationalized. Global rankings have a variety of uses, levels of popularity and rationales and they are here to stay. An examination of the results of the current global ranking reveals that well-reputed world-class universities are amongst the top ranked ones. A…

What Price the Building of World-Class Universities? Academic Pressure Faced by Young Lecturers at a Research-Centered University in China

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tian, Mei; Lu, Genshu

2017-01-01

This study explores the challenges faced by young lecturers in managerial transformation in elite Chinese academic institutions which aim to develop into world-class universities. Drawing on data from in-depth interviews, the paper discusses how a group of lecturers on tenure-track contracts at a research university in China perceived the impacts…

The Effect of Mixed-Age Classes in Sweden

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lindstrom, Elly-Ann; Lindahl, Erica

2011-01-01

Mixed-aged (MA) classes are a common phenomenon around the world. In Sweden, these types of classes increased rapidly during the 1980s and 1990s, despite the fact that existing empirical support for MA classes is weak. In this paper, the effect of attending an MA class during grades 4-6 on students' cognitive skills is estimated. Using a unique…

Computation in generalised probabilisitic theories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Ciarán M.; Barrett, Jonathan

2015-08-01

From the general difficulty of simulating quantum systems using classical systems, and in particular the existence of an efficient quantum algorithm for factoring, it is likely that quantum computation is intrinsically more powerful than classical computation. At present, the best upper bound known for the power of quantum computation is that {{BQP}}\\subseteq {{AWPP}}, where {{AWPP}} is a classical complexity class (known to be included in {{PP}}, hence {{PSPACE}}). This work investigates limits on computational power that are imposed by simple physical, or information theoretic, principles. To this end, we define a circuit-based model of computation in a class of operationally-defined theories more general than quantum theory, and ask: what is the minimal set of physical assumptions under which the above inclusions still hold? We show that given only an assumption of tomographic locality (roughly, that multipartite states and transformations can be characterized by local measurements), efficient computations are contained in {{AWPP}}. This inclusion still holds even without assuming a basic notion of causality (where the notion is, roughly, that probabilities for outcomes cannot depend on future measurement choices). Following Aaronson, we extend the computational model by allowing post-selection on measurement outcomes. Aaronson showed that the corresponding quantum complexity class, {{PostBQP}}, is equal to {{PP}}. Given only the assumption of tomographic locality, the inclusion in {{PP}} still holds for post-selected computation in general theories. Hence in a world with post-selection, quantum theory is optimal for computation in the space of all operational theories. We then consider whether one can obtain relativized complexity results for general theories. It is not obvious how to define a sensible notion of a computational oracle in the general framework that reduces to the standard notion in the quantum case. Nevertheless, it is possible to define computation relative to a ‘classical oracle’. Then, we show there exists a classical oracle relative to which efficient computation in any theory satisfying the causality assumption does not include {{NP}}.

Studies on Effective Utilization of SOFC Exhaust Heat Using Thermoelectric Power Generation Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Terayama, Takeshi; Nagata, Susumu; Tanaka, Yohei; Momma, Akihiko; Kato, Tohru; Kunii, Masaru; Yamamoto, Atsushi

2013-07-01

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are being researched around the world. In Japan, a compact SOFC system with rated alternative current (AC) power of 700 W has become available on the market, since the base load electricity demand for a standard home is said to be less than 700 W AC. To improve the generating efficiency of SOFC systems in the 700-W class, we focused on thermoelectric generation (TEG) technology, since there are a lot of temperature gradients in the system. Analysis based on simulations indicated the possibility of introducing thermoelectric generation at the air preheater, steam generator, and exhaust outlet. Among these options, incorporating a TEG heat exchanger comprising multiple CoSb3/SiGe-based TEG modules into the air preheater had potential to produce additional output of 37.5 W and an improvement in generating efficiency from 46% to 48.5%. Furthermore, by introducing thermoelectric generation at the other two locations, an increase in maximum output of more than 50 W and generating efficiency of 50% can be anticipated.

PRACE - The European HPC Infrastructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stadelmeyer, Peter

2014-05-01

The mission of PRACE (Partnership for Advanced Computing in Europe) is to enable high impact scientific discovery and engineering research and development across all disciplines to enhance European competitiveness for the benefit of society. PRACE seeks to realize this mission by offering world class computing and data management resources and services through a peer review process. This talk gives a general overview about PRACE and the PRACE research infrastructure (RI). PRACE is established as an international not-for-profit association and the PRACE RI is a pan-European supercomputing infrastructure which offers access to computing and data management resources at partner sites distributed throughout Europe. Besides a short summary about the organization, history, and activities of PRACE, it is explained how scientists and researchers from academia and industry from around the world can access PRACE systems and which education and training activities are offered by PRACE. The overview also contains a selection of PRACE contributions to societal challenges and ongoing activities. Examples of the latter are beside others petascaling, application benchmark suite, best practice guides for efficient use of key architectures, application enabling / scaling, new programming models, and industrial applications. The Partnership for Advanced Computing in Europe (PRACE) is an international non-profit association with its seat in Brussels. The PRACE Research Infrastructure provides a persistent world-class high performance computing service for scientists and researchers from academia and industry in Europe. The computer systems and their operations accessible through PRACE are provided by 4 PRACE members (BSC representing Spain, CINECA representing Italy, GCS representing Germany and GENCI representing France). The Implementation Phase of PRACE receives funding from the EU's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) under grant agreements RI-261557, RI-283493 and RI-312763. For more information, see www.prace-ri.eu

Strategic Style in Pared-Down Poker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burns, Kevin

This chapter deals with the manner of making diagnoses and decisions, called strategic style, in a gambling game called Pared-down Poker. The approach treats style as a mental mode in which choices are constrained by expected utilities. The focus is on two classes of utility, i.e., money and effort, and how cognitive styles compare to normative strategies in optimizing these utilities. The insights are applied to real-world concerns like managing the war against terror networks and assessing the risks of system failures. After "Introducing the Interactions" involved in playing poker, the contents are arranged in four sections, as follows. "Underpinnings of Utility" outlines four classes of utility and highlights the differences between them: economic utility (money), ergonomic utility (effort), informatic utility (knowledge), and aesthetic utility (pleasure). "Inference and Investment" dissects the cognitive challenges of playing poker and relates them to real-world situations of business and war, where the key tasks are inference (of cards in poker, or strength in war) and investment (of chips in poker, or force in war) to maximize expected utility. "Strategies and Styles" presents normative (optimal) approaches to inference and investment, and compares them to cognitive heuristics by which people play poker--focusing on Bayesian methods and how they differ from human styles. The normative strategy is then pitted against cognitive styles in head-to-head tournaments, and tournaments are also held between different styles. The results show that style is ergonomically efficient and economically effective, i.e., style is smart. "Applying the Analysis" explores how style spaces, of the sort used to model individual behavior in Pared-down Poker, might also be applied to real-world problems where organizations evolve in terror networks and accidents arise from system failures.

Development of a New Method for Assembling a Bipolar DC Motor as a Teaching Material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsumoto, Yuki; Sakaki, Kei; Sakaki, Mamoru

2017-05-01

A simple handmade motor is a commonly used teaching aid for explaining the theory of the DC motor in science classes around the world. Kits that can be used by children to craft a simple motor are commercially available, and videos of assembling these motors are easily found on the internet. Although the design of this motor is simple, it is unipolar, meaning that the rotor consists of a single dipole. Thus, the Lorentz force acts only on one side of the coil per revolution. This decreases the energy conversion efficiency and requires the learners to turn the rotor using their hands in order to initiate rotation.

CO 2-fluxing collapses metal mobility in magmatic vapour

DOE PAGES

van Hinsberg, V. J.; Berlo, K.; Migdisov, A. A.; ...

2016-05-18

Magmatic systems host many types of ore deposits, including world-class deposits of copper and gold. Magmas are commonly an important source of metals and ore-forming fluids in these systems. In many magmatic-hydrothermal systems, low-density aqueous fluids, or vapours, are significant metal carriers. Such vapours are water-dominated shallowly, but fluxing of CO 2-rich vapour exsolved from deeper magma is now recognised as ubiquitous during open-system magma degassing. Furthermore, we show that such CO 2-fluxing leads to a sharp drop in element solubility, up to a factor of 10,000 for Cu, and thereby provides a highly efficient, but as yet unrecognised mechanismmore » for metal deposition.« less

FCS and English: Dual Class Develops "Taste" for Other Cultures

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Caya, Billie Ann

2005-01-01

"Foods and Literature of the World" is a dual class taught at Bismarck High School in Bismarck, North Dakota. There are two components of the class--English and family and consumer sciences (FCS). (The English component fulfills the 12th grade English requirement.) Culture is explored through class discussion, essay writing, research,…

Class and University Education: Inter-Generational Patterns in Canada. NALL Working Paper.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Livingstone, D. W.; Stowe, Susan

Young people from lower class origins continue to face major barriers to university education in Canada. This paper documents both substantial inter-generational class mobility and continuing inequalities in formal educational attainments by class origins. While Canada now has the world's higher educational attainments in its youth cohort and has…

WATER-TRAPPED WORLDS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Menou, Kristen

2013-09-01

Although tidally locked habitable planets orbiting nearby M-dwarf stars are among the best astronomical targets to search for extrasolar life, they may also be deficient in volatiles and water. Climate models for this class of planets show atmospheric transport of water from the dayside to the nightside, where it is precipitated as snow and trapped as ice. Since ice only slowly flows back to the dayside upon accumulation, the resulting hydrological cycle can trap a large amount of water in the form of nightside ice. Using ice sheet dynamical and thermodynamical constraints, I illustrate how planets with less than aboutmore » a quarter the Earth's oceans could trap most of their surface water on the nightside. This would leave their dayside, where habitable conditions are met, potentially dry. The amount and distribution of residual liquid water on the dayside depend on a variety of geophysical factors, including the efficiency of rock weathering at regulating atmospheric CO{sub 2} as dayside ocean basins dry up. Water-trapped worlds with dry daysides may offer similar advantages as land planets for habitability, by contrast with worlds where more abundant water freely flows around the globe.« less

Recent R&D status for 70 MW class superconducting generators in the Super-GM project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ageta, Takasuke

2000-05-01

Three types of 70 MW class superconducting generators called model machines have been developed to establish basic technologies for a pilot machine. The series of on-site verification tests was completed in June 1999. The world's highest generator output (79 MW), the world's longest continuous operation (1500 hours) and other excellent results were obtained. The model machine was connected to a commercial power grid and fundamental data were collected for future utilization. It is expected that fundamental technologies on design and manufacture required for a 200 MW class pilot machine are established.

No Evidence of a Common DNA Variant Profile Specific to World Class Endurance Athletes

PubMed Central

Wolfarth, Bernd; Wang, Guan; Sarzynski, Mark A.; Alexeev, Dmitry G.; Ahmetov, Ildus I.; Boulay, Marcel R.; Cieszczyk, Pawel; Eynon, Nir; Filipenko, Maxim L.; Garton, Fleur C.; Generozov, Edward V.; Govorun, Vadim M.; Houweling, Peter J.; Kawahara, Takashi; Kostryukova, Elena S.; Kulemin, Nickolay A.; Larin, Andrey K.; Maciejewska-Karłowska, Agnieszka; Miyachi, Motohiko; Muniesa, Carlos A.; Murakami, Haruka; Ospanova, Elena A.; Padmanabhan, Sandosh; Pavlenko, Alexander V.; Pyankova, Olga N.; Santiago, Catalina; Sawczuk, Marek; Scott, Robert A.; Uyba, Vladimir V.; Yvert, Thomas; Perusse, Louis; Ghosh, Sujoy; Rauramaa, Rainer; North, Kathryn N.; Lucia, Alejandro; Pitsiladis, Yannis; Bouchard, Claude

2016-01-01

There are strong genetic components to cardiorespiratory fitness and its response to exercise training. It would be useful to understand the differences in the genomic profile of highly trained endurance athletes of world class caliber and sedentary controls. An international consortium (GAMES) was established in order to compare elite endurance athletes and ethnicity-matched controls in a case-control study design. Genome-wide association studies were undertaken on two cohorts of elite endurance athletes and controls (GENATHLETE and Japanese endurance runners), from which a panel of 45 promising markers was identified. These markers were tested for replication in seven additional cohorts of endurance athletes and controls: from Australia, Ethiopia, Japan, Kenya, Poland, Russia and Spain. The study is based on a total of 1520 endurance athletes (835 who took part in endurance events in World Championships and/or Olympic Games) and 2760 controls. We hypothesized that world-class athletes are likely to be characterized by an even higher concentration of endurance performance alleles and we performed separate analyses on this subsample. The meta-analysis of all available studies revealed one statistically significant marker (rs558129 at GALNTL6 locus, p = 0.0002), even after correcting for multiple testing. As shown by the low heterogeneity index (I2 = 0), all eight cohorts showed the same direction of association with rs558129, even though p-values varied across the individual studies. In summary, this study did not identify a panel of genomic variants common to these elite endurance athlete groups. Since GAMES was underpowered to identify alleles with small effect sizes, some of the suggestive leads identified should be explored in expanded comparisons of world-class endurance athletes and sedentary controls and in tightly controlled exercise training studies. Such studies have the potential to illuminate the biology not only of world class endurance performance but also of compromised cardiac functions and cardiometabolic diseases. PMID:26824906

No Evidence of a Common DNA Variant Profile Specific to World Class Endurance Athletes.

PubMed

Rankinen, Tuomo; Fuku, Noriyuki; Wolfarth, Bernd; Wang, Guan; Sarzynski, Mark A; Alexeev, Dmitry G; Ahmetov, Ildus I; Boulay, Marcel R; Cieszczyk, Pawel; Eynon, Nir; Filipenko, Maxim L; Garton, Fleur C; Generozov, Edward V; Govorun, Vadim M; Houweling, Peter J; Kawahara, Takashi; Kostryukova, Elena S; Kulemin, Nickolay A; Larin, Andrey K; Maciejewska-Karłowska, Agnieszka; Miyachi, Motohiko; Muniesa, Carlos A; Murakami, Haruka; Ospanova, Elena A; Padmanabhan, Sandosh; Pavlenko, Alexander V; Pyankova, Olga N; Santiago, Catalina; Sawczuk, Marek; Scott, Robert A; Uyba, Vladimir V; Yvert, Thomas; Perusse, Louis; Ghosh, Sujoy; Rauramaa, Rainer; North, Kathryn N; Lucia, Alejandro; Pitsiladis, Yannis; Bouchard, Claude

2016-01-01

There are strong genetic components to cardiorespiratory fitness and its response to exercise training. It would be useful to understand the differences in the genomic profile of highly trained endurance athletes of world class caliber and sedentary controls. An international consortium (GAMES) was established in order to compare elite endurance athletes and ethnicity-matched controls in a case-control study design. Genome-wide association studies were undertaken on two cohorts of elite endurance athletes and controls (GENATHLETE and Japanese endurance runners), from which a panel of 45 promising markers was identified. These markers were tested for replication in seven additional cohorts of endurance athletes and controls: from Australia, Ethiopia, Japan, Kenya, Poland, Russia and Spain. The study is based on a total of 1520 endurance athletes (835 who took part in endurance events in World Championships and/or Olympic Games) and 2760 controls. We hypothesized that world-class athletes are likely to be characterized by an even higher concentration of endurance performance alleles and we performed separate analyses on this subsample. The meta-analysis of all available studies revealed one statistically significant marker (rs558129 at GALNTL6 locus, p = 0.0002), even after correcting for multiple testing. As shown by the low heterogeneity index (I2 = 0), all eight cohorts showed the same direction of association with rs558129, even though p-values varied across the individual studies. In summary, this study did not identify a panel of genomic variants common to these elite endurance athlete groups. Since GAMES was underpowered to identify alleles with small effect sizes, some of the suggestive leads identified should be explored in expanded comparisons of world-class endurance athletes and sedentary controls and in tightly controlled exercise training studies. Such studies have the potential to illuminate the biology not only of world class endurance performance but also of compromised cardiac functions and cardiometabolic diseases.

Undergraduates | Argonne National Laboratory

Science.gov Websites

Directory Argonne National Laboratory Educational Programs Connecting today's world-class research to which you can use to change the world." -Nelson Mandela Undergrads are just beginning their journey into the world of science and engineering. Here at Argonne, we work to make the world a better place

Some concepts of favorability for world-class-type uranium deposits in the northeastern United States

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Adler, H.H.

1981-03-01

An account is given of concepts of favorability of geologic environments in the eastern United States for uranium deposits of several major types existing elsewhere in the world. The purpose is to convey some initial ideas about the interrelationships of the geology of the eastern United States and the geologic settings of certain of these world-class deposits. The study and report include consideration of uranium deposits other than those generally manifesting the geologic, geochemical and genetic characteristics associated with the conventional sandstone-type ores of the western United States.

Globalization, China's Drive for World-Class Universities (211 Project) and the Challenges of Ethnic Minority Higher Education: The Case of Yanbian University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Choi, Sheena

2010-01-01

This case study of Yanbian University, a Korean minority university in China, examines the challenges faced, strategies employed, and resources mobilized by a minority university in its attempt to become a world-class university. Specifically, this case study focuses on how the University is attempting to reach its goals within the context of the…

The Variation of Universally Acknowledged World-Class Universities (UAWCUs) between 2010 and 2015: An Empirical Study by the Ranks of THEs, QS and ARWU

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Lu; Liu, Zhimin

2016-01-01

Due to certainty recognition in ranking systems, the commonly included top 100 universities are regarded as the Universally Acknowledged World-Class Universities (UAWCUs). From three university rankings-THEs, QS and ARWU from 2010 to 2015, the following conclusions can be drawn from this study: Firstly, 56 universities are commonly ranked in the…

Actors' Interpretations and Organisational Change Processes: The Case of the University of Ghana's Strategic Vision of Becoming a "World Class University"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Intsiful, Emmanuel; Maassen, Peter

2017-01-01

Despite its seemingly subjective and ambiguous nature, the notion of a World Class University (WCU) appears both established and widely discussed in higher education discourses over the last decade. At the same time, some scholars have argued that the notion does not fit or refer to universities in Africa. In the year 2010, the University of Ghana…

Energy Engineering Analysis Program. Lighting Survey of Selected Buildings, Pine Bluff Arsenal, Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Volume 2A: Appendices

DTIC Science & Technology

1995-06-01

Energy efficient, 30 and 40 watt ballasts are Rapid Start, thermally protected, automatic resetting. Class P, high or low power factor as required...BALLASTS Energy efficient, 30 ana 40 watt Rapic Start, thermally protected, automatic resetting. Class P. high power factor, CEM, sound rated A. unless...BALLASTS Energy efficient, 40 Watt Rapid Start, thermally protected, automatic resetting, Class P, high power factor, CBM, sound rated A, unless

Modeling and Optimization of Class-E Amplifier at Subnominal Condition in a Wireless Power Transfer System for Biomedical Implants.

PubMed

Liu, Hao; Shao, Qi; Fang, Xuelin

2017-02-01

For the class-E amplifier in a wireless power transfer (WPT) system, the design parameters are always determined by the nominal model. However, this model neglects the conduction loss and voltage stress of MOSFET and cannot guarantee the highest efficiency in the WPT system for biomedical implants. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a novel circuit model of the subnominal class-E amplifier. On a WPT platform for capsule endoscope, the proposed model was validated to be effective and the relationship between the amplifier's design parameters and its characteristics was analyzed. At a given duty ratio, the design parameters with the highest efficiency and safe voltage stress are derived and the condition is called 'optimal subnominal condition.' The amplifier's efficiency can reach the highest of 99.3% at the 0.097 duty ratio. Furthermore, at the 0.5 duty ratio, the measured efficiency of the optimal subnominal condition can reach 90.8%, which is 15.2% higher than that of the nominal condition. Then, a WPT experiment with a receiving unit was carried out to validate the feasibility of the optimized amplifier. In general, the design parameters of class-E amplifier in a WPT system for biomedical implants can be determined with the proposed optimization method in this paper.

Class Size Effects on Fourth-Grade Mathematics Achievement: Evidence from TIMSS 2011

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Li, Wei; Konstantopoulos, Spyros

2016-01-01

Class size reduction policies have been widely implemented around the world in recent years. However, findings about the effects of class size on student achievement have been mixed. This study examines class size effects on fourth-grade mathematics achievement in 14 European countries using data from TIMSS (Trends in International Mathematics and…

Using the LCZ framework for change detection and urban growth monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Danylo, Olha; See, Linda; Gomez, Adriana; Schnabel, Georg; Fritz, Steffen

2017-04-01

The world's population reached 7.3 billion in 2015 and it is projected to increase further to 9.7 billion by 2050. Population growth is strongly linked to city expansion, as many people are moving from rural to urban areas. In order to enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization, we need an efficient workflow for assessing the corresponding SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) targets. In this study we investigate how the Local Climate Zone (LCZ) classification framework can be used for monitoring sustainable urbanization and assess the availability of adequate and safe housing. The original LCZ classification system consists of 10 urban classes, which can be characterized by urban structure, the type of roads and buildings, the density of the built-up area, etc. The other seven classes in the classification scheme include natural land cover classes that do not contain any buildings (e.g., forest, low vegetation, bare land, water, etc). As a case study area we have chosen the cities of Johannesburg and Pretoria in South Africa. According to the 2011 Census, the population of Gauteng province (which includes both Johannesburg and Pretoria) increased by 32.55% compared to 2001 Census and reached 12 million in 2011. A large number of people live in slums and informal housing, which makes this area relevant for such an analysis. Using available satellite images for different years, we classified the case-study areas into the main LCZ classes, including the lightweight lowrise building zone, which corresponds to informal housing. We estimated the land use efficiency as the ratio of the land consumption rate to the population growth rate to illustrate how the LCZ framework can be applied to the assessment of urban growth and to help understand the trajectories of the changes in the urban environment. We show that a low value of this ratio does not necessarily indicate sustainable city expansion, but may instead signal a growing population density in the slum areas.

Psychometric properties and a latent class analysis of the 12-item World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) in a pooled dataset of community samples.

PubMed

MacLeod, Melissa A; Tremblay, Paul F; Graham, Kathryn; Bernards, Sharon; Rehm, Jürgen; Wells, Samantha

2016-12-01

The 12-item World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) is a brief measurement tool used cross-culturally to capture the multi-dimensional nature of disablement through six domains, including: understanding and interacting with the world; moving and getting around; self-care; getting on with people; life activities; and participation in society. Previous psychometric research supports that the WHODAS 2.0 functions as a general factor of disablement. In a pooled dataset from community samples of adults (N = 447) we used confirmatory factor analysis to confirm a one-factor structure. Latent class analysis was used to identify subgroups of individuals based on their patterns of responses. We identified four distinct classes, or patterns of disablement: (1) pervasive disability; (2) physical disability; (3) emotional, cognitive, or interpersonal disability; (4) no/low disability. Convergent validity of the latent class subgroups was found with respect to socio-demographic characteristics, number of days affected by disabilities, stress, mental health, and substance use. These classes offer a simple and meaningful way to classify people with disabilities based on the 12-item WHODAS 2.0. Focusing on individuals with a high probability of being in the first three classes may help guide interventions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

GaN Microwave DC-DC Converters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramos Franco, Ignacio

Increasing the operating frequency of switching converters can have a direct impact in the miniaturization and integration of power converters. The size of energy-storage passive components and the difficulty to integrate them with the rest of the circuitry is a major challenge in the development of a fully integrated power supply on a chip. The work presented in this thesis attempts to address some of the difficulties encountered in the design of high-frequency converters by applying concepts and techniques usually used in the design of high-efficiency power amplifiers and high-efficiency rectifiers at microwave frequencies. The main focus is in the analysis, design, and characterization of dc-dc converters operating at microwave frequencies in the low gigahertz range. The concept of PA-rectifier duality, where a high-efficiency power amplifier operates as a high-efficiency rectifier is investigated through non-linear simulations and experimentally validated. Additionally, the concept of a self-synchronous rectifier, where a transistor rectifier operates synchronously without the need of a RF source or driver is demonstrated. A theoretical analysis of a class-E self-synchronous rectifier is presented and validated through non-linear simulations and experiments. Two GaN class-E2 dc-dc converters operating at a switching frequency of 1 and 1.2 GHz are demonstrated. The converters achieve 80 % and 75 % dc-dc efficiency respectively and are among the highest-frequency and highest-efficiency reported in the literature. The application of the concepts established in the analysis of a self-synchronous rectifier to a power amplifier culminated in the development of an oscillating, self-synchronous class-E 2 dc-dc converter. Finally, a proof-of-concept fully integrated GaN MMIC class-E 2 dc-dc converter switching at 4.6 GHz is demonstrated for the first time to the best of our knowledge. The 3.8 mm x 2.6 mm chip contains distributed inductors and does not require any external components. The maximum measured dc-dc efficiency is approximately 45%.

NREL Researcher is Top World Physicist

Science.gov Websites

is Top World Physicist For more information contact: Kerry Masson, (303) 275-4083 e:mail physicists in the world by the Institute of Scientific Information (ISI). The standing is based on the number your peers is the ultimate measure of the quality and quantity of world class research being conducted

Gross Primary Productivity and Vegetation Light Use Efficiency of a Large Metropolitan Region based on CO2 Flux Measurements and WorldView-2 Satellite Imagery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, D. L.; Roberts, D. A.; Clarke, K. C.; Peters, E. B.; Menzer, O.; Lin, Y.; McFadden, J. P.

2017-12-01

Gross primary productivity (GPP) is commonly estimated with remote sensing techniques over large regions of Earth; however, urban areas are typically excluded due to a lack of light use efficiency (LUE) parameters specific to urban vegetation and challenges stemming from the spatial heterogeneity of urban land cover. In this study, we estimated GPP during the middle of the growing season, both within and among vegetation and land use types, in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Minnesota metropolitan region (52.1% vegetation cover). We derived LUE parameters for specific urban vegetation types using estimates of GPP from eddy covariance and tree sap flow-based CO2 flux observations and fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation derived from 2-m resolution WorldView-2 satellite imagery. We produced a pixel-based hierarchical land cover classification of built-up and vegetated urban land cover classes distinguishing deciduous broadleaf trees, evergreen needleleaf trees, turf grass, and golf course grass from impervious and soil surfaces. The overall classification accuracy was 80% (kappa = 0.73). The mapped GPP estimates were within 12% of estimates from independent tall tower eddy covariance measurements. Mean GPP estimates ( ± standard deviation; g C m-2 day-1) for the entire study area from highest to lowest were: golf course grass (11.77 ± 1.20), turf grass (6.05 ± 1.07), evergreen needleleaf trees (5.81 ± 0.52), and deciduous broadleaf trees (2.52 ± 0.25). Turf grass GPP had a larger coefficient of variation (0.18) than the other vegetation classes ( 0.10). Mean land use GPP for the full study area varied as a function of percent vegetation cover. Urban GPP in general, both including and excluding non-vegetated areas, was less than half that of literature estimates for nearby natural forests and grasslands.

Analytical design equations for self-tuned Class-E power amplifier.

PubMed

Hu, Zhe; Troyk, Philip

2011-01-01

For many emerging neural prosthesis designs that are powered by inductive coupling, their small physical size requires large current in the extracorporeal transmitter coil, and the Class-E power amplifier topology is often used for the transmitter design. Tuning of Class-E circuits for efficient operation is difficult and a self-tuned circuit can facilitate the tuning. The coil current is sensed and used to tune the switching of the transistor switch in the Class-E circuit in order to maintain its high-efficiency operation. Although mathematically complex, the analysis and design procedure for the self-tuned Class-E circuit can be simplified due to the current feedback control, which makes the phase angle between the switching pulse and the coil current predetermined. In this paper explicit analytical design equations are derived and a detailed design procedure is presented and compared with the conventional Class-E design approaches.

Neoliberalism as a class ideology; or, the political causes of the growth of inequalities.

PubMed

Navarro, Vicente

2007-01-01

Neoliberalism is the dominant ideology permeating the public policies of many governments in developed and developing countries and of international agencies such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, World Trade Organization, and many technical agencies of the United Nations, including the World Health Organization. This ideology postulates that the reduction of state interventions in economic and social activities and the deregulation of labor and financial markets, as well as of commerce and investments, have liberated the enormous potential of capitalism to create an unprecedented era of social well-being in the world's population. This article questions each of the theses that support such ideology, presenting empirical information that challenges them. The author also describes how the application of these neoliberal policies has been responsible for a substantial growth of social inequalities within the countries where such policies have been applied, as well as among countries. The major beneficiaries of these policies are the dominant classes of both the developed and the developing countries, which have established worldwide class alliances that are primarily responsible for the promotion of neoliberalism.

Using the Web To Deliver and Enhance Classes: Two Case Studies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Helford, Paul Q.; Lei, Richard M.

This paper discusses two case studies conducted at Northern Arizona University. The studies are from classes that are using the World Wide Web to enhance teaching and learning. One class is the Art of Cinema, a film studies class that has been taught via Instructional Television (ITV) for five years. Various techniques have been used over the…

Class Counts: Education, Inequality, and the Shrinking Middle Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ornstein, Allan

2007-01-01

Class differences and class warfare have existed since the beginning of western civilization, but the gap in income and wealth between the rich (top 10 percent) and the rest has increased steadily in the last twenty-five years. The U.S. is heading for a financial oligarchy much worse than the aristocratic old world that our Founding Fathers feared…

Simple processing of back-contacted silicon heterojunction solar cells using selective-area crystalline growth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomasi, Andrea; Paviet-Salomon, Bertrand; Jeangros, Quentin; Haschke, Jan; Christmann, Gabriel; Barraud, Loris; Descoeudres, Antoine; Seif, Johannes Peter; Nicolay, Sylvain; Despeisse, Matthieu; de Wolf, Stefaan; Ballif, Christophe

2017-04-01

For crystalline-silicon solar cells, voltages close to the theoretical limit are nowadays readily achievable when using passivating contacts. Conversely, maximal current generation requires the integration of the electron and hole contacts at the back of the solar cell to liberate its front from any shadowing loss. Recently, the world-record efficiency for crystalline-silicon single-junction solar cells was achieved by merging these two approaches in a single device; however, the complexity of fabricating this class of devices raises concerns about their commercial potential. Here we show a contacting method that substantially simplifies the architecture and fabrication of back-contacted silicon solar cells. We exploit the surface-dependent growth of silicon thin films, deposited by plasma processes, to eliminate the patterning of one of the doped carrier-collecting layers. Then, using only one alignment step for electrode definition, we fabricate a proof-of-concept 9-cm2 tunnel-interdigitated back-contact solar cell with a certified conversion efficiency >22.5%.

Research | Energy Systems Integration Facility | NREL

Science.gov Websites

levels of variable supply and demand? How do we keep the lights on and the fuel flowing in a world of , regulatory frameworks, and value propositions for consumers in this changing world? NREL's crosscutting Partner with our world-class researchers Work

Children's Understanding of Social Class Differences.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Naimark, Hedwin

Investigated were school children's recognition of social class distinctions, cues they used, and the relationship of their ideas about social class to other beliefs and attitudes about the social world. An ethnically mixed group of 201 male and female subjects participated in the study. Five age groups were represented: second, fifth, and sixth…

Novel classes of antibiotics or more of the same?

PubMed

Coates, Anthony R M; Halls, Gerry; Hu, Yanmin

2011-05-01

The world is running out of antibiotics. Between 1940 and 1962, more than 20 new classes of antibiotics were marketed. Since then, only two new classes have reached the market. Analogue development kept pace with the emergence of resistant bacteria until 10-20 years ago. Now, not enough analogues are reaching the market to stem the tide of antibiotic resistance, particularly among gram-negative bacteria. This review examines the existing systemic antibiotic pipeline in the public domain, and reveals that 27 compounds are in clinical development, of which two are new classes, both of which are in Phase I clinical trials. In view of the high attrition rate of drugs in early clinical development, particularly new classes and the current regulatory hurdles, it does not seem likely that new classes will be marketed soon. This paper suggests that, if the world is to return to a situation in which there are enough antibiotics to cope with the inevitable ongoing emergence of bacterial resistance, we need to recreate the prolific antibiotic discovery period between 1940 and 1962, which produced 20 classes that served the world well for 60 years. If another 20 classes and their analogues, particularly targeting gram-negatives could be produced soon, they might last us for the next 60 years. How can this be achieved? Only a huge effort by governments in the form of finance, legislation and providing industry with real incentives will reverse this. Industry needs to re-enter the market on a much larger scale, and academia should rebuild its antibiotic discovery infrastructure to support this effort. The alternative is Medicine without effective antibiotics. © 2011 The Authors. British Journal of Pharmacology © 2011 The British Pharmacological Society.

Estimating Urban Gross Primary Productivity at High Spatial Resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, David Lauchlin

Gross primary productivity (GPP) is an important metric of ecosystem function and is the primary way carbon is transferred from the atmosphere to the land surface. Remote sensing techniques are commonly used to estimate regional and global GPP for carbon budgets. However, urban areas are typically excluded from such estimates due to a lack of parameters specific to urban vegetation and the modeling challenges that arise in mapping GPP across heterogeneous urban land cover. In this study, we estimated typical midsummer GPP within and among vegetation and land use types in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Minnesota metropolitan region by deriving light use efficiency parameters specific to urban vegetation types using in situ flux observations and WorldView-2 high spatial resolution satellite imagery. We produced a land cover classification using the satellite imagery, canopy height data from airborne lidar, and leaf-off color-infrared aerial orthophotos, and used regional GIS layers to mask certain land cover/land use types. The classification for built-up and vegetated urban land cover classes distinguished deciduous trees, evergreen trees, turf grass, and golf grass from impervious and soil surfaces, with an overall classification accuracy of 80% (kappa = 0.73). The full study area had 52.1% vegetation cover. The light use efficiency for each vegetation class, with the exception of golf grass, tended to be low compared to natural vegetation light use efficiencies in the literature. The mapped GPP estimates were within 11% of estimates from independent tall tower eddy covariance measurements. The order of the mapped vegetation classes for the full study area in terms of mean GPP from lowest to highest was: deciduous trees (2.52 gC m -2 d-1), evergreen trees (5.81 gC m-2 d-1), turf grass (6.05 gC m-2 d-1), and golf grass (11.77 gC m-2 d-1). Turf grass GPP had a larger coefficient of variation (0.18) than the other vegetation classes (˜0.10). Mean land use GPP for the full study area varied as a function of percent vegetation cover. Urban GPP in general, both including and excluding non-vegetated areas, tended to be low relative to natural forests and grasslands. Our results demonstrate that, at the scale of neighborhoods and city blocks within heterogeneous urban landscapes, high spatial resolution GPP estimates are valuable to develop comparisons such as within and among vegetation cover classes and land use types.

British Defense Policy: A New Approach?

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-12-14

inherent to their well-being, was also acknowledged by the remainder of the world in its attitude toward Britain. Is not "Rule Britannia , Britannia ...Castle Class 1 1 Island Class 7 43 Mine -Counter Minesweepers 2 2 Mine River Class 12 Ton Class 10 3 Hunt Class 12 1 Patrol Craft Bird Class 5 Coastal 15...submarine warfare carriers, assault ships, and mine -counter mine vessels. British naval aircraft is as depicted in Table 2. Table 2. Aircraft of the Royal

The Challenge to Promote Understanding of and Change Attitudes toward the Third World.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Drake, Christine

Results of a survey of college students to determine attitude change toward the Third World as a result of their participation in classes taught by faculty members involved in a Third World Faculty Development Seminar are discussed. Faculty from many disciplines participated in the seminar and then integrated Third World materials into their…

The Exciting World of Binary Stars: Not Just Eclipses Anymore (Abstract)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pablo, B.

2018-06-01

(Abstract only) Binary stars have always been essential to astronomy. Their periodic eclipses are the most common and efficient method for determining precise masses and radii of stars. Binaries are known for their predictability and have been observed for hundreds if not thousands of years. As such, they are often ignored by observers as uninteresting, however, nothing could be farther from the truth. In the last ten years alone the importance of binary stars, as well of our knowledge of them, has changed significantly. In this talk, I will introduce you to this new frontier of heartbeats, mergers, and evolution, while hopefully motivating a change in the collective thinking of how this unique class of objects is viewed. Most importantly,

NCBO Resource Index: Ontology-Based Search and Mining of Biomedical Resources

PubMed Central

Jonquet, Clement; LePendu, Paea; Falconer, Sean; Coulet, Adrien; Noy, Natalya F.; Musen, Mark A.; Shah, Nigam H.

2011-01-01

The volume of publicly available data in biomedicine is constantly increasing. However, these data are stored in different formats and on different platforms. Integrating these data will enable us to facilitate the pace of medical discoveries by providing scientists with a unified view of this diverse information. Under the auspices of the National Center for Biomedical Ontology (NCBO), we have developed the Resource Index—a growing, large-scale ontology-based index of more than twenty heterogeneous biomedical resources. The resources come from a variety of repositories maintained by organizations from around the world. We use a set of over 200 publicly available ontologies contributed by researchers in various domains to annotate the elements in these resources. We use the semantics that the ontologies encode, such as different properties of classes, the class hierarchies, and the mappings between ontologies, in order to improve the search experience for the Resource Index user. Our user interface enables scientists to search the multiple resources quickly and efficiently using domain terms, without even being aware that there is semantics “under the hood.” PMID:21918645

NCBO Resource Index: Ontology-Based Search and Mining of Biomedical Resources.

PubMed

Jonquet, Clement; Lependu, Paea; Falconer, Sean; Coulet, Adrien; Noy, Natalya F; Musen, Mark A; Shah, Nigam H

2011-09-01

The volume of publicly available data in biomedicine is constantly increasing. However, these data are stored in different formats and on different platforms. Integrating these data will enable us to facilitate the pace of medical discoveries by providing scientists with a unified view of this diverse information. Under the auspices of the National Center for Biomedical Ontology (NCBO), we have developed the Resource Index-a growing, large-scale ontology-based index of more than twenty heterogeneous biomedical resources. The resources come from a variety of repositories maintained by organizations from around the world. We use a set of over 200 publicly available ontologies contributed by researchers in various domains to annotate the elements in these resources. We use the semantics that the ontologies encode, such as different properties of classes, the class hierarchies, and the mappings between ontologies, in order to improve the search experience for the Resource Index user. Our user interface enables scientists to search the multiple resources quickly and efficiently using domain terms, without even being aware that there is semantics "under the hood."

[The Pharaohs: slave merchants or organizers of an efficient welfare system? Re-writing history through new documentation and research].

PubMed

Melino, C; Del Vecchio, R; Druda, L

2003-01-01

The Authors have studied documents dating from the era of the Pharaohs, that is to say: the papyruses of Ebers and Smith, and have come to the conclusion that the recent claims by some archaeologists that the Egyptian workmen who built the Pyramids, were protected by health regulations and not treated as slaves, is true. This is a new interpretation of Egyptian history, because up to now, it has always been thought that the workmen were slaves. The construction of the Pharaoh's tomb was a team work including members of the upper classes (architects, physicians) and the lower classes (masons, workmen) and was the demonstration of a contribution and a symbol of recognition from all members of the team to the head of the society (the Pharaoh), who was their employer and took their interests into consideration e.g. health regulations. The Authors have also deduced from other sources of information that a public health system and welfare organization, comparable to our present day Legislative Decree 626/94, did in fact exist in the ancient world.

Effects of the Competitive Season on the Isokinetic Muscle Parameters Changes in World-Class Handball Players.

PubMed

Maurelli, Olivier; Bernard, Pierre L; Dubois, Romain; Ahmaidi, Said; Prioux, Jacques

2018-05-25

Maurelli, O, Bernard, PL, Dubois, R, Ahmaidi, S, and Prioux, J. Effects of the competitive season on the isokinetic muscle parameters changes in world-class handball players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2018-The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the competitive season on isokinetic muscular parameters of the lower limbs in world-class handball players. Nineteen, male, world-class, handball players (age, 26.6 ± 5.4 years) participated in the study. Two bilateral isokinetic tests of knee joint flexors (H; hamstring) and extensors (Q; quadriceps) were performed in the beginning and end of the competitive season to determine the peak torque (PT), the mean power, and agonist-antagonist ratio, dominant-nondominant ratio (DNDR), and combined ratio. The results showed a significant decrease in PT values at low angular velocity (60°·s) in concentric mode for Q on dominant leg (p < 0.001). The other PT values for dominant and nondominant legs at low and high angular velocities (240°·s) and in eccentric mode (30°·s) were not significantly different for Q and H. For mean power, values did not change at 60°·s. At 240°·s, we found a significant decrease in H for dominant leg (p < 0.001) but not for nondominant leg. In eccentric mode, the results showed a significant increase on both legs (p < 0.001). For the ratios, values significantly decreased for DNDR at 60°·s for Q (p < 0.03) and for agonist/antagonist ratio at 240°·s for the dominant leg (p < 0.01). The present results highlight the importance of integrating regular strength training sessions during the competitive season in world-class handball players. Accordingly, this study should help trainers to modify their planning to maximize strength and power qualities of the lower limbs of their players in addition to avoiding injuries.

Effects of Newcastle disease virus vaccine antibodies on the shedding and transmission of challenge viruses

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Different genotypes of avian paramyxovirus serotype-1 virus (APMV-1) circulate in many parts of the world. Traditionally, Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is recognized as having two major divisions represented by class I and class II, with class II being further divided into eighteen genotypes. Alth...

Effects of Newcastle disease virus vaccine antibodies on the shedding and transmission of challenge viruses

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Different genotypes of avian paramyxovirus serotype-1 virus (APMV-1) circulate in many parts of the world. Traditionally, Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is recognized as having two major divisions represented by class I and class II, with class II being further divided into sixteen genotypes. Althoug...

Structural (Performance) class Potential for North America

Treesearch

Eric Jones; David E. Kretschmann; Kevin Cheung

2014-01-01

Structural class systems are species-independent product classification systems for structural timber. They are used throughout the world to reduce the number of species and grade choices that face the designer of wood construction projects. Structural class systems offer an opportunity to simplify timber specification in North America and to encourage more effective...

An Oral History Project: World War II Veterans Share Memories in My Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fuchs, David W.

2004-01-01

This article describes how the author developed and implemented a course on World War II that has an oral history component. The author describes the format of the World War II course and the oral history component within the course framework. The author uses classroom presentations by veterans to enliven his World War II history class and enhance…

Political Warfare and Contentious Politics

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-01

stone for the United States to develop and test Cold War strategies for combating communist expansion and influence around the world . This study...around the world enabled the PCCH to gain valuable 64 support and resources for organizing membership in the rapidly growing working-class unions of...show the world the capitalist model of third- world development worked better than the Marxist one.”134

Summary of development of 70 MW class model superconducting generator--research and development of superconducting for electric power application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oishi, Ikuo; Nishijima, Kenichi

2002-03-01

A 70 MW class superconducting model generator was designed, manufactured, and tested from 1988 to 1999 as Phase I, which was Japan's national project on applications of superconducting technologies to electric power apparatuses that was commissioned by NEDO as part of New Sunshine Program of AIST and MITI. Phase II then is now being carried out by almost same organization as Phase I. With the development of the 70 MW class superconducting model generator, technologies for a 200 MW class pilot generator were established. The world's largest output (79 MW), world's longest continuous operation (1500 h), and other sufficient characteristics were achieved on the 70 MW class superconducting model generator, and key technologies of design and manufacture required for the 200 MW class pilot generator were established. This project contributed to progress of R&D of power apparatuses. Super-GM has started the next project (Phase II), which shall develop the key technologies for larger-capacity and more-compact machine and is scheduled from 2000 to 2003. Phase II shall be the first step for commercialization of superconducting generator.

The genomic proliferation of transposable elements in colonizing populations: Schistosoma mansoni in the new world.

PubMed

Wijayawardena, Bhagya K; DeWoody, J Andrew; Minchella, Dennis J

2015-06-01

Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile genes with an inherent ability to move within and among genomes. Theory predicts that TEs proliferate extensively during physiological stress due to the breakdown of TE repression systems. We tested this hypothesis in Schistosoma mansoni, a widespread trematode parasite that causes the human disease schistosomiasis. According to phylogenetic analysis, S. mansoni invaded the new world during the last 500 years. We hypothesized that new world strains of S. mansoni would have more copies of TEs than old world strains due to the physiological stress associated with invasion of the new world. We quantified the copy number of six TEs (Saci-1, Saci-2 and Saci-3, Perere-1, Merlin-sm1, and SmTRC1) in the genome and the transcriptome of old world and new world strains of S. mansoni, using qPCR relative quantification. As predicted, the genomes of new world parasites contain significantly more copies of class I and class II TEs in both laboratory and field strains. However, such differences are not observed in the transcriptome suggesting that either TE silencing mechanisms have reactivated to control the expression of these elements or the presence of inactive truncated copies of TEs.

Application Exercises Improve Transfer of Statistical Knowledge in Real-World Situations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Daniel, Frances; Braasch, Jason L. G.

2013-01-01

The present research investigated whether real-world application exercises promoted students' abilities to spontaneously transfer statistical knowledge and to recognize the use of statistics in real-world contexts. Over the course of a semester of psychological statistics, two classes completed multiple application exercises designed to mimic…

Sea World Curriculum Guide. Program Theme: Behavior K-3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sea World, Inc., San Diego, CA.

This document provides science curriculum instructional material relating to marine biology. Items presented relate to live animal exhibits seen during visits to Sea World marine aquarium exhibits; however, all materials are also useful for in-class instruction without visits to Sea World displays. Ideally, material should be reviewed immediately…

Sea World Curriculum Guide. Program Theme: Adaptations K-3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sea World, Inc., San Diego, CA.

This document provides science curriculum instructional material relating to marine biology. Items presented relate to live animal exhibits seen during visits to Sea World marine aquarium exhibits; however, all materials are also useful for in-class instruction without visits to Sea World displays. Ideally, material should be reviewed immediately…

Sea World Curriculum Guide. Program Theme: Adaptations 4-8.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sea World, Inc., San Diego, CA.

This document provides science curriculum instructional material relating to marine biology. Items presented relate to live animal exhibits seen during visits to Sea World marine aquarium exhibits; however, all materials are also useful for in-class instruction without visits to Sea World displays. Ideally, material should be reviewed immediately…

Sea World Curriculum Guide. Program Theme: Behavior 4-8.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sea World, Inc., San Diego, CA.

This document provides science curriculum instructional material relating to marine biology. Items presented relate to live animal exhibits seen during visits to Sea World marine aquarium exhibits; however, all materials are also useful for in-class instruction without visits to Sea World displays. Ideally, material should be reviewed immediately…

The Evolving Relationship Between Technology and National Security in China: Innovation, Defense Transformation, and China’s Place in the Global Technology Order

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-12

SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: This project examined China’s drive to become a world-class defense and dual -use technological and industrial power and...2211 China, science, technology, dual use, defense, security, innovation REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE 11. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S REPORT NUMBER(S) 10...Place in the Global Technology Order Report Title This project examined China’s drive to become a world-class defense and dual -use technological and

Object segmentation controls image reconstruction from natural scenes

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

The structure of the physical world projects images onto our eyes. However, those images are often poorly representative of environmental structure: well-defined boundaries within the eye may correspond to irrelevant features of the physical world, while critical features of the physical world may be nearly invisible at the retinal projection. The challenge for the visual cortex is to sort these two types of features according to their utility in ultimately reconstructing percepts and interpreting the constituents of the scene. We describe a novel paradigm that enabled us to selectively evaluate the relative role played by these two feature classes in signal reconstruction from corrupted images. Our measurements demonstrate that this process is quickly dominated by the inferred structure of the environment, and only minimally controlled by variations of raw image content. The inferential mechanism is spatially global and its impact on early visual cortex is fast. Furthermore, it retunes local visual processing for more efficient feature extraction without altering the intrinsic transduction noise. The basic properties of this process can be partially captured by a combination of small-scale circuit models and large-scale network architectures. Taken together, our results challenge compartmentalized notions of bottom-up/top-down perception and suggest instead that these two modes are best viewed as an integrated perceptual mechanism. PMID:28827801

A Dynamic Intrusion Detection System Based on Multivariate Hotelling's T2 Statistics Approach for Network Environments

PubMed Central

Avalappampatty Sivasamy, Aneetha; Sundan, Bose

2015-01-01

The ever expanding communication requirements in today's world demand extensive and efficient network systems with equally efficient and reliable security features integrated for safe, confident, and secured communication and data transfer. Providing effective security protocols for any network environment, therefore, assumes paramount importance. Attempts are made continuously for designing more efficient and dynamic network intrusion detection models. In this work, an approach based on Hotelling's T2 method, a multivariate statistical analysis technique, has been employed for intrusion detection, especially in network environments. Components such as preprocessing, multivariate statistical analysis, and attack detection have been incorporated in developing the multivariate Hotelling's T2 statistical model and necessary profiles have been generated based on the T-square distance metrics. With a threshold range obtained using the central limit theorem, observed traffic profiles have been classified either as normal or attack types. Performance of the model, as evaluated through validation and testing using KDD Cup'99 dataset, has shown very high detection rates for all classes with low false alarm rates. Accuracy of the model presented in this work, in comparison with the existing models, has been found to be much better. PMID:26357668

A Dynamic Intrusion Detection System Based on Multivariate Hotelling's T2 Statistics Approach for Network Environments.

PubMed

Sivasamy, Aneetha Avalappampatty; Sundan, Bose

2015-01-01

The ever expanding communication requirements in today's world demand extensive and efficient network systems with equally efficient and reliable security features integrated for safe, confident, and secured communication and data transfer. Providing effective security protocols for any network environment, therefore, assumes paramount importance. Attempts are made continuously for designing more efficient and dynamic network intrusion detection models. In this work, an approach based on Hotelling's T(2) method, a multivariate statistical analysis technique, has been employed for intrusion detection, especially in network environments. Components such as preprocessing, multivariate statistical analysis, and attack detection have been incorporated in developing the multivariate Hotelling's T(2) statistical model and necessary profiles have been generated based on the T-square distance metrics. With a threshold range obtained using the central limit theorem, observed traffic profiles have been classified either as normal or attack types. Performance of the model, as evaluated through validation and testing using KDD Cup'99 dataset, has shown very high detection rates for all classes with low false alarm rates. Accuracy of the model presented in this work, in comparison with the existing models, has been found to be much better.

Semiconductor nanostructures for artificial photosynthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Peidong

2012-02-01

Nanowires, with their unique capability to bridge the nanoscopic and macroscopic worlds, have already been demonstrated as important materials for different energy conversion. One emerging and exciting direction is their application for solar to fuel conversion. The generation of fuels by the direct conversion of solar energy in a fully integrated system is an attractive goal, but no such system has been demonstrated that shows the required efficiency, is sufficiently durable, or can be manufactured at reasonable cost. One of the most critical issues in solar water splitting is the development of a suitable photoanode with high efficiency and long-term durability in an aqueous environment. Semiconductor nanowires represent an important class of nanostructure building block for direct solar-to-fuel application because of their high surface area, tunable bandgap and efficient charge transport and collection. Nanowires can be readily designed and synthesized to deterministically incorporate heterojunctions with improved light absorption, charge separation and vectorial transport. Meanwhile, it is also possible to selectively decorate different oxidation or reduction catalysts onto specific segments of the nanowires to mimic the compartmentalized reactions in natural photosynthesis. In this talk, I will highlight several recent examples in this lab using semiconductor nanowires and their heterostructures for the purpose of direct solar water splitting.

A high efficiency PWM CMOS class-D audio power amplifier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhangming, Zhu; Lianxi, Liu; Yintang, Yang; Han, Lei

2009-02-01

Based on the difference close-loop feedback technique and the difference pre-amp, a high efficiency PWM CMOS class-D audio power amplifier is proposed. A rail-to-rail PWM comparator with window function has been embedded in the class-D audio power amplifier. Design results based on the CSMC 0.5 μm CMOS process show that the max efficiency is 90%, the PSRR is -75 dB, the power supply voltage range is 2.5-5.5 V, the THD+N in 1 kHz input frequency is less than 0.20%, the quiescent current in no load is 2.8 mA, and the shutdown current is 0.5 μA. The active area of the class-D audio power amplifier is about 1.47 × 1.52 mm2. With the good performance, the class-D audio power amplifier can be applied to several audio power systems.

Brain-to-Brain Synchrony and Learning Outcomes Vary by Student-Teacher Dynamics: Evidence from a Real-world Classroom Electroencephalography Study.

PubMed

Bevilacqua, Dana; Davidesco, Ido; Wan, Lu; Oostrik, Matthias; Chaloner, Kim; Rowland, Jess; Ding, Mingzhou; Poeppel, David; Dikker, Suzanne

2018-04-30

How does the human brain support real-world learning? We used wireless electroencephalography to collect neurophysiological data from a group of 12 senior high school students and their teacher during regular biology lessons. Six scheduled classes over the course of the semester were organized such that class materials were presented using different teaching styles (videos and lectures), and students completed a multiple-choice quiz after each class to measure their retention of that lesson's content. Both students' brain-to-brain synchrony and their content retention were higher for videos than lectures across the six classes. Brain-to-brain synchrony between the teacher and students varied as a function of student engagement as well as teacher likeability: Students who reported greater social closeness to the teacher showed higher brain-to-brain synchrony with the teacher, but this was only the case for lectures, that is, when the teacher is an integral part of the content presentation. Furthermore, students' retention of the class content correlated with student-teacher closeness, but not with brain-to-brain synchrony. These findings expand on existing social neuroscience research by showing that social factors such as perceived closeness are reflected in brain-to-brain synchrony in real-world group settings and can predict cognitive outcomes such as students' academic performance.

Co-evolution of MHC class I and variable NK cell receptors in placental mammals.

PubMed

Guethlein, Lisbeth A; Norman, Paul J; Hilton, Hugo G; Parham, Peter

2015-09-01

Shaping natural killer (NK) cell functions in human immunity and reproduction are diverse killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) that recognize polymorphic MHC class I determinants. A survey of placental mammals suggests that KIRs serve as variable NK cell receptors only in certain primates and artiodactyls. Divergence of the functional and variable KIRs in primates and artiodactyls predates placental reproduction. Among artiodactyls, cattle but not pigs have diverse KIRs. Catarrhine (humans, apes, and Old World monkeys) and platyrrhine (New World monkeys) primates, but not prosimians, have diverse KIRs. Platyrrhine and catarrhine systems of KIR and MHC class I are highly diverged, but within the catarrhines, a stepwise co-evolution of MHC class I and KIR is discerned. In Old World monkeys, diversification focuses on MHC-A and MHC-B and their cognate lineage II KIR. With evolution of C1-bearing MHC-C from MHC-B, as informed by orangutan, the focus changes to MHC-C and its cognate lineage III KIR. Evolution of C2 from C1 and fixation of MHC-C drove further elaboration of MHC-C-specific KIR, as exemplified by chimpanzee. In humans, the evolutionary trajectory changes again. Emerging from reorganization of the KIR locus and selective attenuation of KIR avidity for MHC class I are the functionally distinctive KIR A and KIR B haplotypes. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Amplification of Information by Photons and the Quantum Chernoff Bound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zwolak, Michael; Riedel, C. Jess; Zurek, Wojciech H.

2014-03-01

Amplification was regarded, since the early days of quantum theory, as a mysterious ingredient that endows quantum microstates with macroscopic consequences, key to the ``collapse of the wavepacket,'' and a way to avoid embarrassing problems exemplified by Schrödinger's cat. This bridge between the quantum microworld and the classical world of our experience was postulated ad hoc in the Copenhagen Interpretation. Quantum Darwinism views amplification as replication, in many copies, of information about quantum states. We show that such amplification is a natural consequence of a broad class of models of decoherence, including the photon environment we use to obtain most of our information. The resultant amplification is huge, proportional to # ξQCB . Here, #  is the environment size and ξQCB is the ``typical'' Quantum Chernoff Information, which quantifies the efficiency of the amplification. The information communicated though the environment is imprinted in the states of individual environment subsystems, e.g., in single photons, which document the transfer of information into the environment and result in the emergence of the classical world. See, http://mike.zwolak.org

BRFS: TOXICOLOGY AND RISK

EPA Science Inventory

Brominated flame retardants are a large class of diverse chemicals which are being used in increasing amounts world wide to protect against fires. The major classes include the polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), the brominated bisphenols (e.g., tetrabromobisphenol A, TBBPA)...

Travelers, Not Tourists: A World Literature Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Downing, Karen

2002-01-01

Describes a high school world literature course. Outlines four "destinations" for topics including: searching for meaning; injustice; romantic love; and border crossing. Discusses teaching techniques and literature the author uses to teach the class. (SG)

It's a Small World After All

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, M. Gail; Broadwell, Bethany; Falvo, Michael; Minogue, James; Oppewal, Thomas

2005-01-01

As one of the authors was warning the fifth-grade class about protecting clothes from spills in the lab, one student commented that his pants wouldn't stain because they were covered with some "nano stuff." The class tossed water on the pants and watched it bead up and roll off "like magic." The class's interest was piqued, and the questions…

Medium Truck Duty Cycle Data from Real-World Driving Environments: Final Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lascurain, Mary Beth; Franzese, Oscar; Capps, Gary J

2012-11-01

Since the early part of the 20th century, the US trucking industry has provided a safe and economical means of moving commodities across the country. At present, nearly 80% of US domestic freight movement involves the use of trucks. The US Department of Energy (DOE) is spearheading a number of research efforts to improve heavy vehicle fuel efficiencies. This includes research in engine technologies (including hybrid and fuel cell technologies), lightweight materials, advanced fuels, and parasitic loss reductions. In addition, DOE is developing advanced tools and models to support heavy vehicle research and is leading the 21st Century Truck Partnershipmore » and the SuperTruck development effort. Both of these efforts have the common goal of decreasing the fuel consumption of heavy vehicles. In the case of SuperTruck, a goal of improving the overall freight efficiency of a combination tractor-trailer has been established. This Medium Truck Duty Cycle (MTDC) project is a critical element in DOE s vision for improved heavy vehicle energy efficiency; it is unique in that there is no other existing national database of characteristic duty cycles for medium trucks based on collecting data from Class 6 and 7 vehicles. It involves the collection of real-world data on medium trucks for various situational characteristics (e.g., rural/urban, freeway/arterial, congested/free-flowing, good/bad weather) and looks at the unique nature of medium trucks drive cycles (stop-and-go delivery, power takeoff, idle time, short-radius trips). This research provides a rich source of data that can contribute to the development of new tools for FE and modeling, provide DOE a sound basis upon which to make technology investment decisions, and provide a national archive of real-world-based medium-truck operational data to support energy efficiency research. The MTDC project involved a two-part field operational test (FOT). For the Part-1 FOT, three vehicles each from two vocations (urban transit and dry-box delivery) were instrumented for the collection of one year of operational data. The Part-2 FOT involved the towing and recovery and utility vocations for a second year of data collection. The vehicles that participated in the MTDC project did so through gratis partnerships in return for early access to the results of this study. Partnerships such as these are critical to FOTs in which real-world data is being collected. In Part 1 of the project, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) established partnerships with the H.T. Hackney Company (HTH), one of the largest wholesale distributors in the country, distributing products to 21 states; and with Knoxville Area Transit (KAT), the city of Knoxville s transit system, which operates across Knoxville and parts of Knox County. These partnerships and agreements provided ORNL access to three Class-7 day-cab tractors that regularly haul 28 ft pup trailers (HTH) and three Class-7 buses for the collection of duty cycle data. In addition, ORNL collaborated with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to determine if there were possible synergies between this duty cycle data collection effort and FMCSA s need to learn more about the operation and duty cycles of medium trucks. FMCSA s primary interest was in collecting safety data relative to the driver, carrier, and vehicle. In Part 2 of the project, ORNL partnered with the Knoxville Utilities Board, which made available three Class-8 trucks. Fountain City Wrecker Service was also a Part 2 partner, providing three Class-6 rollback trucks. In order to collect the duty cycle and safety-related data, ORNL developed a data acquisition system (DAS) that was placed on each test vehicle. Each signal recorded in this FOT was collected by means of one of the instruments incorporated into each DAS. Other signals were obtained directly from the vehicle s J1939 and J1708 data buses. A VBOX II Lite collected information available from a global positioning system (GPS), including speed, acceleration, and spatial location information at a rate of 5 Hz for the Part 1 FOT. For the Part 2 FOT, this information was obtained from DAS-based GPS instrumentation. The Air-Weigh LoadMaxx, a self-weighing system that determines the vehicle s gross weight by means of pressure transducers, was used to collect vehicle payload information for the combination, urban transit, and towing and recovery vehicles. A cellular modem, the Raven X EVDO V4221, facilitated the communication between the eDAQ-lite (the data collection engine of the system) and the user. The modem functioned as a wireless gateway, allowing data retrievals and system checks to be performed remotely. Also, in partnership with FMCSA, two additional safety sensors were installed on the combination vehicles: the MGM e-Stroke brake monitoring system and the Tire SafeGuard tire pressure monitoring system. All of these sensors posted data to the J1939 data bus, enabling the signals to be read withou...« less

CNN Newsroom Classroom Guides. December 1999.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cable News Network, Atlanta, GA.

These guides, designed to accompany the daily Cable News Network (CNN) Newsroom broadcasts for December 1-17, 1999, provide program rundowns, suggestions for class activities and discussion, links to relevant World Wide Web sites, and a list of related news terms. Top stories include: World AIDS Day, World Trade Organization protests in Seattle,…

World-Class Leaders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weinstein, Margery

2012-01-01

Future leaders' creativity and problem-solving skills have been honed in leadership courses, but that doesn't mean they are ready to use those skills to further a company's place in the world. With emerging markets in Asia, South America, and other areas of the world, a workforce needs to have an understanding of and interest in cultures beyond…

Careers | Argonne National Laboratory

Science.gov Websites

YouTube Google+ More Social Media » Jason Carter Mechanical Engineer Read more » Look at the world differently. At Argonne, we view the world from a different perspective. Our scientists and engineers conduct world-class research in clean energy, the environment, technology, national security and more. We're

An Investigation of the Differences and Similarities between Generated Small-World Networks for Right- and Left-Hand Motor Imageries.

PubMed

Zhang, Jiang; Li, Yuyao; Chen, Huafu; Ding, Jurong; Yuan, Zhen

2016-11-04

In this study, small-world network analysis was performed to identify the similarities and differences between functional brain networks for right- and left-hand motor imageries (MIs). First, Pearson correlation coefficients among the nodes within the functional brain networks from healthy subjects were calculated. Then, small-world network indicators, including the clustering coefficient, the average path length, the global efficiency, the local efficiency, the average node degree, and the small-world index, were generated for the functional brain networks during both right- and left-hand MIs. We identified large differences in the small-world network indicators between the functional networks during MI and in the random networks. More importantly, the functional brain networks underlying the right- and left-hand MIs exhibited similar small-world properties in terms of the clustering coefficient, the average path length, the global efficiency, and the local efficiency. By contrast, the right- and left-hand MI brain networks showed differences in small-world characteristics, including indicators such as the average node degree and the small-world index. Interestingly, our findings also suggested that the differences in the activity intensity and range, the average node degree, and the small-world index of brain networks between the right- and left-hand MIs were associated with the asymmetry of brain functions.

The Model Construction of English Ecological Class in the High School in China

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhou, Zhen

2017-01-01

The Ecological class is a kind of class in which the system of class teaching is in a state of dynamic balance and it can enhance the efficiency of class teaching. The article analyzes the feature of English ecological class, illustrates the non-ecological class teaching problems and explores the ways to establish English ecological class from the…

Efficiency of compensatory orthodontic treatment of mild Class III malocclusion with two different bracket systems

PubMed Central

Aragón, Mônica L. C.; Bichara, Lívia M.; Flores-Mir, Carlos; Almeida, Guilherme; Normando, David

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the efficiency of compensatory orthodontic treatment of patients with mild Class III malocclusion with two preadjusted bracket systems. Method: Fifty-six matched patients consecutively treated for mild Class III malocclusion through compensatory dentoalveolar movements were retrospectively evaluated after analysis of orthodontic records. The sample was divided into two groups according to the brackets used: Group 1 = non-Class III compensated preadjusted brackets, Roth prescription (n = 28); Group 2 = compensated Class III preadjusted brackets, Capelozza III prescription (n = 28). Cephalometric analysis, number of appointments and missed appointments, months using Class III elastics, and bond/band failures were considered. Treatment time, Peer Assessment Rating (PAR) index at the beginning (PAR T1) and end of treatment (PAR T2) were used to calculate treatment efficiency. Comparison was performed using a MANOVA at p< 0.05. Results: Missed appointments, bond or band failures, number of months using the Class III intermaxillary elastics, and cephalometric measurements showed no statistically significant difference (p> 0.05) between groups. Patients treated with Roth brackets had a treatment time 7 months longer (p= 0.01). Significant improvement in the patient’s occlusion (PAR T2-T1) was observed for both groups without difference (p= 0.22). Conclusions: Orthodontic brackets designed for compensation of mild Class III malocclusions appear to be more efficient than non-compensated straight-wire prescription brackets. Treatment time for Class III patients treated with brackets designed for compensation was shorter than with Roth prescription and no difference in the quality of the occlusal outcome was observed. A prospective randomized study is suggested to provide a deeper look into this subject. PMID:29364379

75 FR 42474 - The Future of Aviation Advisory Committee (FAAC) Subcommittee on Labor and World-Class Workforce...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-21

... aviation industry in light of the changing socioeconomic dynamics of the world's technologically advanced... impact of Next Generation Air Transportation System on various aviation workforces; and (4) identifying...

OPTICAL FIBER SENSOR TECHNOLOGIES FOR EFFICIENT AND ECONOMICAL OIL RECOVERY

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Anbo Wang; Kristie L. Cooper; Gary R. Pickrell

2003-06-01

Efficient recovery of petroleum reserves from existing oil wells has been proven to be difficult due to the lack of robust instrumentation that can accurately and reliably monitor processes in the downhole environment. Commercially available sensors for measurement of pressure, temperature, and fluid flow exhibit shortened lifetimes in the harsh downhole conditions, which are characterized by high pressures (up to 20 kpsi), temperatures up to 250 C, and exposure to chemically reactive fluids. Development of robust sensors that deliver continuous, real-time data on reservoir performance and petroleum flow pathways will facilitate application of advanced recovery technologies, including horizontal and multilateralmore » wells. This is the final report for the four-year program ''Optical Fiber Sensor Technologies for Efficient and Economical Oil Recovery'', funded by the National Petroleum Technology Office of the U.S. Department of Energy, and performed by the Center for Photonics Technology of the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Virginia Tech from October 1, 1999 to March 31, 2003. The main objective of this research program was to develop cost-effective, reliable optical fiber sensor instrumentation for real-time monitoring of various key parameters crucial to efficient and economical oil production. During the program, optical fiber sensors were demonstrated for the measurement of temperature, pressure, flow, and acoustic waves, including three successful field tests in the Chevron/Texaco oil fields in Coalinga, California, and at the world-class oil flow simulation facilities in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Research efforts included the design and fabrication of sensor probes, development of signal processing algorithms, construction of test systems, development and testing of strategies for the protection of optical fibers and sensors in the downhole environment, development of remote monitoring capabilities allowing real-time monitoring of the field test data from virtually anywhere in the world, and development of novel data processing techniques. Comprehensive testing was performed to systematically evaluate the performance of the fiber optic sensor systems in both lab and field environments.« less

Phase-I investigation of high-efficiency power amplifiers for 325 and 650 MHz

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Raab, Frederick

2018-01-27

This Phase-I SBIR grant investigated techniques for high-efficiency power amplification for DoE particle accelerators such as Project X that operate at 325 and 650 MHz. The recommended system achieves high efficiency, high reliability, and hot-swap capability by integrating class-F power amplifiers, class-S modulators, power combiners, and a digital signal processor. Experimental evaluations demonstrate the production of 120 W per transistor with overall efficiencies from 86 percent at 325 MHz and 80 percent at 650 MHz.

Inhibitory control efficiency in a Piaget-like class-inclusion task in school-age children and adults: a developmental negative priming study.

PubMed

Borst, G; Poirel, N; Pineau, A; Cassotti, M; Houdé, O

2013-07-01

Most children under 7 years of age presented with 10 daisies and 2 roses fail to indicate that there are more flowers than daisies. Instead of the appropriate comparison of the relative numerosities of the superordinate class (flowers) to its subordinate class (daisies), they perform a direct perceptual comparison of the extensions of the 2 subordinate classes (daisies vs. roses). In our experiment, we investigated whether increasing efficiency in solving the Piagetian class-inclusion task is related to increasing efficiency in the ability to resist (inhibit) this direct comparison of the subordinate classes' extensions. Ten-year-old and young adult participants performed a computerized priming version of a Piaget-like class-inclusion task. The experimental design was such that the misleading perceptual strategy to inhibit on the prime (in which a superordinate class had to be compared with a subordinate class) became a congruent strategy to activate on the probe (in which the two subordinate classes' extensions were directly compared). We found a negative priming effect of 291 ms in children and 129 ms in adults. These results provide evidence for the first time (a) that adults still need to inhibit the comparison of the subordinate classes' extensions in class-inclusion tasks and (b) that the ability to inhibit this heuristic increases with age (resulting in a lower executive cost). Taken together, these findings provide additional support for the neo-Piagetian approach of cognitive development that suggests that the acquisition of increasingly complex knowledge is based on the ability to resist (inhibit) heuristics and previously acquired knowledge.

Novel classes of antibiotics or more of the same?

PubMed Central

Coates, Anthony RM; Halls, Gerry; Hu, Yanmin

2011-01-01

The world is running out of antibiotics. Between 1940 and 1962, more than 20 new classes of antibiotics were marketed. Since then, only two new classes have reached the market. Analogue development kept pace with the emergence of resistant bacteria until 10–20 years ago. Now, not enough analogues are reaching the market to stem the tide of antibiotic resistance, particularly among gram-negative bacteria. This review examines the existing systemic antibiotic pipeline in the public domain, and reveals that 27 compounds are in clinical development, of which two are new classes, both of which are in Phase I clinical trials. In view of the high attrition rate of drugs in early clinical development, particularly new classes and the current regulatory hurdles, it does not seem likely that new classes will be marketed soon. This paper suggests that, if the world is to return to a situation in which there are enough antibiotics to cope with the inevitable ongoing emergence of bacterial resistance, we need to recreate the prolific antibiotic discovery period between 1940 and 1962, which produced 20 classes that served the world well for 60 years. If another 20 classes and their analogues, particularly targeting gram-negatives could be produced soon, they might last us for the next 60 years. How can this be achieved? Only a huge effort by governments in the form of finance, legislation and providing industry with real incentives will reverse this. Industry needs to re-enter the market on a much larger scale, and academia should rebuild its antibiotic discovery infrastructure to support this effort. The alternative is Medicine without effective antibiotics. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed issue on Respiratory Pharmacology. To view the other articles in this issue visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2011.163.issue-1 PMID:21323894

Learning Time-Varying Coverage Functions

PubMed Central

Du, Nan; Liang, Yingyu; Balcan, Maria-Florina; Song, Le

2015-01-01

Coverage functions are an important class of discrete functions that capture the law of diminishing returns arising naturally from applications in social network analysis, machine learning, and algorithmic game theory. In this paper, we propose a new problem of learning time-varying coverage functions, and develop a novel parametrization of these functions using random features. Based on the connection between time-varying coverage functions and counting processes, we also propose an efficient parameter learning algorithm based on likelihood maximization, and provide a sample complexity analysis. We applied our algorithm to the influence function estimation problem in information diffusion in social networks, and show that with few assumptions about the diffusion processes, our algorithm is able to estimate influence significantly more accurately than existing approaches on both synthetic and real world data. PMID:25960624

Learning Time-Varying Coverage Functions.

PubMed

Du, Nan; Liang, Yingyu; Balcan, Maria-Florina; Song, Le

2014-12-08

Coverage functions are an important class of discrete functions that capture the law of diminishing returns arising naturally from applications in social network analysis, machine learning, and algorithmic game theory. In this paper, we propose a new problem of learning time-varying coverage functions, and develop a novel parametrization of these functions using random features. Based on the connection between time-varying coverage functions and counting processes, we also propose an efficient parameter learning algorithm based on likelihood maximization, and provide a sample complexity analysis. We applied our algorithm to the influence function estimation problem in information diffusion in social networks, and show that with few assumptions about the diffusion processes, our algorithm is able to estimate influence significantly more accurately than existing approaches on both synthetic and real world data.

Fast generation of sparse random kernel graphs

DOE PAGES

Hagberg, Aric; Lemons, Nathan; Du, Wen -Bo

2015-09-10

The development of kernel-based inhomogeneous random graphs has provided models that are flexible enough to capture many observed characteristics of real networks, and that are also mathematically tractable. We specify a class of inhomogeneous random graph models, called random kernel graphs, that produces sparse graphs with tunable graph properties, and we develop an efficient generation algorithm to sample random instances from this model. As real-world networks are usually large, it is essential that the run-time of generation algorithms scales better than quadratically in the number of vertices n. We show that for many practical kernels our algorithm runs in timemore » at most ο(n(logn)²). As an example, we show how to generate samples of power-law degree distribution graphs with tunable assortativity.« less

On structure-exploiting trust-region regularized nonlinear least squares algorithms for neural-network learning.

PubMed

Mizutani, Eiji; Demmel, James W

2003-01-01

This paper briefly introduces our numerical linear algebra approaches for solving structured nonlinear least squares problems arising from 'multiple-output' neural-network (NN) models. Our algorithms feature trust-region regularization, and exploit sparsity of either the 'block-angular' residual Jacobian matrix or the 'block-arrow' Gauss-Newton Hessian (or Fisher information matrix in statistical sense) depending on problem scale so as to render a large class of NN-learning algorithms 'efficient' in both memory and operation costs. Using a relatively large real-world nonlinear regression application, we shall explain algorithmic strengths and weaknesses, analyzing simulation results obtained by both direct and iterative trust-region algorithms with two distinct NN models: 'multilayer perceptrons' (MLP) and 'complementary mixtures of MLP-experts' (or neuro-fuzzy modular networks).

Scalable algorithms for three-field mixed finite element coupled poromechanics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castelletto, Nicola; White, Joshua A.; Ferronato, Massimiliano

2016-12-01

We introduce a class of block preconditioners for accelerating the iterative solution of coupled poromechanics equations based on a three-field formulation. The use of a displacement/velocity/pressure mixed finite-element method combined with a first order backward difference formula for the approximation of time derivatives produces a sequence of linear systems with a 3 × 3 unsymmetric and indefinite block matrix. The preconditioners are obtained by approximating the two-level Schur complement with the aid of physically-based arguments that can be also generalized in a purely algebraic approach. A theoretical and experimental analysis is presented that provides evidence of the robustness, efficiency and scalability of the proposed algorithm. The performance is also assessed for a real-world challenging consolidation experiment of a shallow formation.

Brazilian Science and Research Integrity: Where are We? What Next?

PubMed

Vasconcelos, Sonia M R; Sorenson, Martha M; Watanabe, Edson H; Foguel, Debora; Palácios, Marisa

2015-01-01

Building a world-class scientific community requires first-class ingredients at many different levels: funding, training, management, international collaborations, creativity, ethics, and an understanding of research integrity practices. All over the world, addressing these practices has been high on the science policy agenda of major research systems. Universities have a central role in fostering a culture of research integrity, which has posed additional challenges for faculty, students and administrators - but also opportunities. In Brazil, the leading universities and governmental funding agencies are collaborating on this project, but much remains to be done.

Developing World-Class Customer Service at Navy Field Contracting Activities: An Assessment of the FISC San Diego Regional Contracts Department.

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-06-01

service quality benchmark is determined and then applied to HSC San Diego Regional Contracts Department to assess service ability and identify areas for possible improvement. This assessment process highlights the recent emphasis on improved service quality both in the Federal Government and the private sector. The thesis defines world-class customer service and then describes various aspects of service quality including the customer’s perspective on service, how service is delivered, how to effectively communicate with the

Combination of minimum enclosing balls classifier with SVM in coal-rock recognition.

PubMed

Song, QingJun; Jiang, HaiYan; Song, Qinghui; Zhao, XieGuang; Wu, Xiaoxuan

2017-01-01

Top-coal caving technology is a productive and efficient method in modern mechanized coal mining, the study of coal-rock recognition is key to realizing automation in comprehensive mechanized coal mining. In this paper we propose a new discriminant analysis framework for coal-rock recognition. In the framework, a data acquisition model with vibration and acoustic signals is designed and the caving dataset with 10 feature variables and three classes is got. And the perfect combination of feature variables can be automatically decided by using the multi-class F-score (MF-Score) feature selection. In terms of nonlinear mapping in real-world optimization problem, an effective minimum enclosing ball (MEB) algorithm plus Support vector machine (SVM) is proposed for rapid detection of coal-rock in the caving process. In particular, we illustrate how to construct MEB-SVM classifier in coal-rock recognition which exhibit inherently complex distribution data. The proposed method is examined on UCI data sets and the caving dataset, and compared with some new excellent SVM classifiers. We conduct experiments with accuracy and Friedman test for comparison of more classifiers over multiple on the UCI data sets. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm has good robustness and generalization ability. The results of experiments on the caving dataset show the better performance which leads to a promising feature selection and multi-class recognition in coal-rock recognition.

Combination of minimum enclosing balls classifier with SVM in coal-rock recognition

PubMed Central

Song, QingJun; Jiang, HaiYan; Song, Qinghui; Zhao, XieGuang; Wu, Xiaoxuan

2017-01-01

Top-coal caving technology is a productive and efficient method in modern mechanized coal mining, the study of coal-rock recognition is key to realizing automation in comprehensive mechanized coal mining. In this paper we propose a new discriminant analysis framework for coal-rock recognition. In the framework, a data acquisition model with vibration and acoustic signals is designed and the caving dataset with 10 feature variables and three classes is got. And the perfect combination of feature variables can be automatically decided by using the multi-class F-score (MF-Score) feature selection. In terms of nonlinear mapping in real-world optimization problem, an effective minimum enclosing ball (MEB) algorithm plus Support vector machine (SVM) is proposed for rapid detection of coal-rock in the caving process. In particular, we illustrate how to construct MEB-SVM classifier in coal-rock recognition which exhibit inherently complex distribution data. The proposed method is examined on UCI data sets and the caving dataset, and compared with some new excellent SVM classifiers. We conduct experiments with accuracy and Friedman test for comparison of more classifiers over multiple on the UCI data sets. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm has good robustness and generalization ability. The results of experiments on the caving dataset show the better performance which leads to a promising feature selection and multi-class recognition in coal-rock recognition. PMID:28937987

Real world programs, real world strategies, real world successes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hogan, K.

1997-12-31

This paper presents a very brief overview of market opportunities for using energy efficient technology. A brief summary of greenhouse gas emissions and global climate change concludes that the threat of global warming must be taken seriously. It is stated that there are numerous technologies available which can reduce energy use by up to 50%, while offering attractive rates of return. Market analysis has identified a trillion dollar market for high efficiency products and services over the next decade. Three main areas of business opportunity for capitalizing on the growing market for energy efficiency are identified: (1) using efficient energymore » technology in-house, (2) marketing energy efficient products, and (3) international markets.« less

Reliability of Growth Indicators and Efficiency of Functional Treatment for Skeletal Class II Malocclusion: Current Evidence and Controversies.

PubMed

Perinetti, Giuseppe; Contardo, Luca

2017-01-01

Current evidence on the reliability of growth indicators in the identification of the pubertal growth spurt and efficiency of functional treatment for skeletal Class II malocclusion, the timing of which relies on such indicators, is highly controversial. Regarding growth indicators, the hand and wrist (including the sole middle phalanx of the third finger) maturation method and the standing height recording appear to be most reliable. Other methods are subjected to controversies or were showed to be unreliable. Main sources of controversies include use of single stages instead of ossification events and diagnostic reliability conjecturally based on correlation analyses. Regarding evidence on the efficiency of functional treatment, when treated during the pubertal growth spurt, more favorable response is seen in skeletal Class II patients even though large individual responsiveness remains. Main sources of controversies include design of clinical trials, definition of Class II malocclusion, and lack of inclusion of skeletal maturity among the prognostic factors. While no growth indicator may be considered to have a full diagnostic reliability in the identification of the pubertal growth spurt, their use may still be recommended for increasing efficiency of functional treatment for skeletal Class II malocclusion.

Reliability of Growth Indicators and Efficiency of Functional Treatment for Skeletal Class II Malocclusion: Current Evidence and Controversies

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Current evidence on the reliability of growth indicators in the identification of the pubertal growth spurt and efficiency of functional treatment for skeletal Class II malocclusion, the timing of which relies on such indicators, is highly controversial. Regarding growth indicators, the hand and wrist (including the sole middle phalanx of the third finger) maturation method and the standing height recording appear to be most reliable. Other methods are subjected to controversies or were showed to be unreliable. Main sources of controversies include use of single stages instead of ossification events and diagnostic reliability conjecturally based on correlation analyses. Regarding evidence on the efficiency of functional treatment, when treated during the pubertal growth spurt, more favorable response is seen in skeletal Class II patients even though large individual responsiveness remains. Main sources of controversies include design of clinical trials, definition of Class II malocclusion, and lack of inclusion of skeletal maturity among the prognostic factors. While no growth indicator may be considered to have a full diagnostic reliability in the identification of the pubertal growth spurt, their use may still be recommended for increasing efficiency of functional treatment for skeletal Class II malocclusion. PMID:28168195

Molding Students into Better Decisionmakers and Managers: An Experiential Learning Exercise.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Babbar, Sunil

1994-01-01

Examples of real-world customer service situations were observed by business students, who then submitted papers and discussed them in class. Their questionnaire responses indicated the value of developing understanding through such an experiential class activity. (SK)

World Energy Issues: An Inquiry-Based Lesson Using ArcGIS Online

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jo, Injeong

2018-01-01

This 45 minute inquiry lesson can be used for a high school world geography or AP Human Geography course when the class discusses various issues regarding world energy resources. The lesson focuses on two particular issues: fossil fuel dependency and the growing energy demand. Students will examine the geographic distribution of current energy…

A World-Class Education: Learning from International Models of Excellence and Innovation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stewart, Vivien

2012-01-01

Typical comparisons of schools in the United States to those in other countries ignore critical factors and overlook potential lessons learned. But here's a book that reveals what the best schools from around the world are doing to educate students for a rapidly changing innovation-based world. Find out that American education has not "gotten…

Alleviating Prejudice among Ninth Grade World History Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weston, Bonnie Walker

The high level of prejudice in an average 9th grade world history class was addressed by the implementation of a custom-designed prejudice reduction program. Lessons were drawn from "The Prejudice Book" (Shiman, 1979); "A World of Difference" (Anti-Defamation League of B'nai B'rith, 1986); and "Hands Across the Campus" (Tiara, 1981). Lessons were…

Chinese Students Speak about Their Favourite Teachers and University Reform

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boshier, Roger

2017-01-01

China is trying to develop better outcomes for students, build world-class institutions and ascend global university rankings. Beijing also wants to jettison the notion it is the workshop of the world and embrace a culture of innovation. Peter Jarvis thinks the world would be a better place if ordinary people were given convivial spaces wherein…

Real-World Units in the Conceptual Age

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Campillo, Blanca; Pierson, Bo Hyun

2014-01-01

During an eight-week series of investigations, a class of third-grade students learned how interactions between forces are used to advance technology in their world. This five-part forces and interaction unit was led by a guiding question: How does engineering and design work in the world, and how does it affect our lives? As they explored this…

Camouflage target reconnaissance based on hyperspectral imaging technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hua, Wenshen; Guo, Tong; Liu, Xun

2015-08-01

Efficient camouflaged target reconnaissance technology makes great influence on modern warfare. Hyperspectral images can provide large spectral range and high spectral resolution, which are invaluable in discriminating between camouflaged targets and backgrounds. Hyperspectral target detection and classification technology are utilized to achieve single class and multi-class camouflaged targets reconnaissance respectively. Constrained energy minimization (CEM), a widely used algorithm in hyperspectral target detection, is employed to achieve one class camouflage target reconnaissance. Then, support vector machine (SVM), a classification method, is proposed to achieve multi-class camouflage target reconnaissance. Experiments have been conducted to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method.

Measurement value analysis overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) packaging process in line 2 (Case Study of PT. MBI Tbk)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rimawan, Erry; Kholil, Muhammad; Hendri

2018-03-01

PT. MBI Tbk is engaged in the manufacture of beverage industry, where the company’s production is based on the magnitude of customer demand that is marketing offices that had been scattered in various regions of Indonesia. In the packaging process steps in PT.MBI through the line 3 lines including racking, canning line, bottling line. In the canning process to existing packing on Line 2 (canning line), there are some machines that are used continuously, among other Depalletizer machine, filler machine, can seamer machine, pasteurizer machine, machine FLD, Wrap Around engine, engine Shrink Wrap. Due to the large demand from customers that is relentless, therefore the calculation of overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) as a whole on line 2 (canning line) is needed in order to make improvements continuously (Continuous Improvement) at line 2 (canning line). This study aims to determine the value of overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and Losses of the most influential of the big six OEE Losses focused on equipment or machinery as a whole into a single unit that is on the line 2, which will then be known root cause of the losses that occur from the research over the field. From the calculation of overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), there are two ratios are still poor and under world-class standards, while the ratio of the availability of 88.85% of the world-class standards by 90% and the performance ratio of 78.51% of the standard world class by 95%, whereas for quality ratio has entered the world-class standard that is equal to 99.90%. Thus the value of OEE on Line 2 line is below world class standards. In this study there were only five losses, which can be identified, and while the losses were very influential, namely the Speed Reduced Losses, losses, these losses accounted for the largest percentage of the value of the rate of 19.12%, of the results of this study losses occurred due to poor surveillance systems (less good) that causes the employee or operator does not perform the work in accordance with a predetermined.

Temporal efficiency evaluation and small-worldness characterization in temporal networks

PubMed Central

Dai, Zhongxiang; Chen, Yu; Li, Junhua; Fam, Johnson; Bezerianos, Anastasios; Sun, Yu

2016-01-01

Numerous real-world systems can be modeled as networks. To date, most network studies have been conducted assuming stationary network characteristics. Many systems, however, undergo topological changes over time. Temporal networks, which incorporate time into conventional network models, are therefore more accurate representations of such dynamic systems. Here, we introduce a novel generalized analytical framework for temporal networks, which enables 1) robust evaluation of the efficiency of temporal information exchange using two new network metrics and 2) quantitative inspection of the temporal small-worldness. Specifically, we define new robust temporal network efficiency measures by incorporating the time dependency of temporal distance. We propose a temporal regular network model, and based on this plus the redefined temporal efficiency metrics and widely used temporal random network models, we introduce a quantitative approach for identifying temporal small-world architectures (featuring high temporal network efficiency both globally and locally). In addition, within this framework, we can uncover network-specific dynamic structures. Applications to brain networks, international trade networks, and social networks reveal prominent temporal small-world properties with distinct dynamic network structures. We believe that the framework can provide further insight into dynamic changes in the network topology of various real-world systems and significantly promote research on temporal networks. PMID:27682314

Temporal efficiency evaluation and small-worldness characterization in temporal networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Zhongxiang; Chen, Yu; Li, Junhua; Fam, Johnson; Bezerianos, Anastasios; Sun, Yu

2016-09-01

Numerous real-world systems can be modeled as networks. To date, most network studies have been conducted assuming stationary network characteristics. Many systems, however, undergo topological changes over time. Temporal networks, which incorporate time into conventional network models, are therefore more accurate representations of such dynamic systems. Here, we introduce a novel generalized analytical framework for temporal networks, which enables 1) robust evaluation of the efficiency of temporal information exchange using two new network metrics and 2) quantitative inspection of the temporal small-worldness. Specifically, we define new robust temporal network efficiency measures by incorporating the time dependency of temporal distance. We propose a temporal regular network model, and based on this plus the redefined temporal efficiency metrics and widely used temporal random network models, we introduce a quantitative approach for identifying temporal small-world architectures (featuring high temporal network efficiency both globally and locally). In addition, within this framework, we can uncover network-specific dynamic structures. Applications to brain networks, international trade networks, and social networks reveal prominent temporal small-world properties with distinct dynamic network structures. We believe that the framework can provide further insight into dynamic changes in the network topology of various real-world systems and significantly promote research on temporal networks.

World Cultural Geography without Maps, How Can We Find Our Way? An Assessment of Implementing Map Use in Senior High School World Cultural Geography Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ryan, Patrick

2007-01-01

This article is designed to illustrate the critical importance of utilizing cartographic representations, i.e., maps in aiding in the increase of academic scores in regards to World Geography at the 10th grade level. The issue of using maps to better a student's comprehension of various world cultures is essential. It is my contention that the…

Class D β-lactamases do exist in Gram-positive bacteria

DOE PAGES

Toth, Marta; Antunes, Nuno Tiago; Stewart, Nichole K.; ...

2015-11-09

Production of β-lactamases of one of four molecular classes (A, B, C and D) is the major mechanism of bacterial resistance to β-lactams, the largest class of antibiotics, which have saved countless lives since their inception 70 years ago. Although several hundred efficient class D enzymes have been identified in Gram-negative pathogens over the last four decades, none have been reported in Gram-positive bacteria. Here we demonstrate that efficient class D β-lactamases capable of hydrolyzing a wide array of β-lactam substrates are widely disseminated in various species of environmental Gram-positive organisms. Class D enzymes of Gram-positive bacteria have a distinctmore » structural architecture and employ a unique substrate-binding mode that is quite different from that of all currently known class A, C and D β-lactamases. In conclusion, these enzymes thus constitute a previously unknown reservoir of novel antibiotic-resistance enzymes.« less

Class D β-lactamases do exist in Gram-positive bacteria

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Toth, Marta; Antunes, Nuno Tiago; Stewart, Nichole K.

Production of β-lactamases of one of four molecular classes (A, B, C and D) is the major mechanism of bacterial resistance to β-lactams, the largest class of antibiotics, which have saved countless lives since their inception 70 years ago. Although several hundred efficient class D enzymes have been identified in Gram-negative pathogens over the last four decades, none have been reported in Gram-positive bacteria. Here we demonstrate that efficient class D β-lactamases capable of hydrolyzing a wide array of β-lactam substrates are widely disseminated in various species of environmental Gram-positive organisms. Class D enzymes of Gram-positive bacteria have a distinctmore » structural architecture and employ a unique substrate-binding mode that is quite different from that of all currently known class A, C and D β-lactamases. In conclusion, these enzymes thus constitute a previously unknown reservoir of novel antibiotic-resistance enzymes.« less

Class D β-lactamases do exist in Gram-positive bacteria

PubMed Central

Toth, Marta; Antunes, Nuno Tiago; Stewart, Nichole K.; Frase, Hilary; Bhattacharya, Monolekha; Smith, Clyde; Vakulenko, Sergei

2015-01-01

Production of β-lactamases of the four molecular classes (A, B, C, and D) is the major mechanism of bacterial resistance to β-lactams, the largest class of antibiotics that have saved countless lives since their inception 70 years ago. Although several hundred efficient class D enzymes have been identified in Gram-negative pathogens over the last four decades, they have not been reported in Gram-positive bacteria. Here we demonstrate that efficient class D β-lactamases capable of hydrolyzing a wide array of β-lactam substrates are widely disseminated in various species of environmental Gram-positive organisms. Class D enzymes of Gram-positive bacteria have a distinct structural architecture and employ a unique substrate binding mode quite different from that of all currently known class A, C, and D β-lactamases. They constitute a novel reservoir of antibiotic resistance enzymes. PMID:26551395

How Do World-Class Nordic Combined Athletes Differ From Specialized Cross-Country Skiers and Ski Jumpers in Sport-Specific Capacity and Training Characteristics?

PubMed

Sandbakk, Øyvind; Rasdal, Vegard; Bråten, Steinar; Moen, Frode; Ettema, Gertjan

2016-10-01

To compare sport-specific laboratory capacities and the annual training of world-class Nordic combined (NC) athletes with specialized ski jumpers (SJ) and cross-country (XC) skiers. Five world-class athletes from each sports discipline were compared. Ski jump imitations were performed on a 3-dimensional force plate in NC athletes and SJ, whereas XC skiing characteristics were obtained from submaximal and maximal roller ski skating on a treadmill in NC athletes and XC skiers. In addition, anthropometrics and annual training characteristics were determined. NC athletes demonstrated 9% higher body mass and showed 17% lower vertical speed in the ski jump imitation than SJ (all P < .05). NC athletes had 12% lower body mass and showed 10% lower peak treadmill speed and 12% lower body-mass-normalized peak oxygen uptake than XC skiers (all P < .05). NC athletes performed half the number of ski-jumping-specific sessions and outdoor ski jumps compared with SJ. NC athletes performed 31% less endurance training, mainly caused by lower amounts of low- and moderate-intensity training in the classical technique, whereas high-intensity strength and speed training and endurance training in the skating technique did not differ substantially from XC skiers. To simultaneously optimize endurance, explosive, and technical capacities in 2 different disciplines, world-class NC athletes train approximately two-thirds of the XC skier's endurance training volume and perform one-half of the ski-jump-specific training compared with SJ. Still, the various laboratory capacities differed only 10-17% compared with SJ and XC skiers.

Introducing the World Population Crises to Secondary Social Studies Classes: An Inquiry-Oriented Instructional Strategy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, Randall C.

1970-01-01

The author contends that students must be alerted to the dangers of overpopulation of the world and to the methods that exist to control population growth. He suggests topics for student inquiry. (CK)

LDA merging and splitting with applications to multiagent cooperative learning and system alteration.

PubMed

Pang, Shaoning; Ban, Tao; Kadobayashi, Youki; Kasabov, Nikola K

2012-04-01

To adapt linear discriminant analysis (LDA) to real-world applications, there is a pressing need to equip it with an incremental learning ability to integrate knowledge presented by one-pass data streams, a functionality to join multiple LDA models to make the knowledge sharing between independent learning agents more efficient, and a forgetting functionality to avoid reconstruction of the overall discriminant eigenspace caused by some irregular changes. To this end, we introduce two adaptive LDA learning methods: LDA merging and LDA splitting. These provide the benefits of ability of online learning with one-pass data streams, retained class separability identical to the batch learning method, high efficiency for knowledge sharing due to condensed knowledge representation by the eigenspace model, and more preferable time and storage costs than traditional approaches under common application conditions. These properties are validated by experiments on a benchmark face image data set. By a case study on the application of the proposed method to multiagent cooperative learning and system alternation of a face recognition system, we further clarified the adaptability of the proposed methods to complex dynamic learning tasks.

A decentralized training algorithm for Echo State Networks in distributed big data applications.

PubMed

Scardapane, Simone; Wang, Dianhui; Panella, Massimo

2016-06-01

The current big data deluge requires innovative solutions for performing efficient inference on large, heterogeneous amounts of information. Apart from the known challenges deriving from high volume and velocity, real-world big data applications may impose additional technological constraints, including the need for a fully decentralized training architecture. While several alternatives exist for training feed-forward neural networks in such a distributed setting, less attention has been devoted to the case of decentralized training of recurrent neural networks (RNNs). In this paper, we propose such an algorithm for a class of RNNs known as Echo State Networks. The algorithm is based on the well-known Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers optimization procedure. It is formulated only in terms of local exchanges between neighboring agents, without reliance on a coordinating node. Additionally, it does not require the communication of training patterns, which is a crucial component in realistic big data implementations. Experimental results on large scale artificial datasets show that it compares favorably with a fully centralized implementation, in terms of speed, efficiency and generalization accuracy. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Vortex Stabilized Plasma for Rapid Water Disinfection & Pharmaceutical Degradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hershcovitch, Ady

2016-10-01

Good quality drinking water is dwindling for large segments of the world population. Aggravating the problem is proliferation of antibiotics in the water supply, which give rise to drug resistant pathogens. One option for water supply increase is recycling waste and polluted water by inexpensive, environmentally friendly methods. Presently disinfection uses chemicals and UV radiation. Chemicals are limited by residual toxicity, while UV consumes much electricity. Current methods can remove only certain classes of drugs due to their large variety of physical and chemical properties. Plasmas in water are very attractive for degrading all pharmaceuticals and deactivating pathogens: intense arc current can physically break up any molecular bonds. UV radiation, ozone, etc. generation inside the water volume disinfects. Present utilized plasmas: glow, pulsed arcs are not power efficient; vortex stabilized plasmas are power efficient that can advance water treatment state-of-the-art by orders of magnitude. Proposed techniquefeatures novel components facilitating large diameter vortex stabilized in-water arcs with optimized plasma parameters for maximal UV-C emission; and harvests hydrogen centered by the vortex.

Engaging Adolescents' Interests, Literacy Practices, and Identities: Digital Collaborative Writing of Fantasy Fiction in a High School English Elective Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rish, Ryan M.

2011-01-01

This study investigates an elective English class, in which students in grades 10-12 collectively read and collaboratively wrote fantasy fiction in four groups. The purpose of the class was to have students consider the choices fantasy and science fictions writers, directors, and video game designers make when creating a fictional world. The…

Economic growth and health progress in Italy: 30 years of National Health Service.

PubMed

Vannelli, Alberto; Buongiorno, Massimo; Zanardo, Michele; Basilico, Valerio; Capriata, Giulio; Rossi, Fabrizio; Pruiti, Vincenzo; Battaglia, Luigi

2012-01-01

On December 23 of 1978, during first Italian recession since the end of World War II, Parliament voted for Law 833 that gives birth to the Italian National Public Health Services (SSN) as the new and alternative model of health care system. It was the beginning of the match of Italian health care with the world class level of the public health care. Each crisis requires solidarity and actions. Maintaining levels of health and other social expenditures is critical to protect life and livelihood and to boost productivity. The purpose of the present study is to establish an alternative point of view to demonstrate that Gross Domestic Product, is a function of health care expenditure. The chronology of the events was created by using the laws published on "Gazzetta Ufficiale" (GU). In order to analyze the corporate effectiveness and efficiency, we have divided the SSN into its three main components, namely resources (input), services (output) and performances (outcome). Health services have certainly been pioneers and are still today standard-bearers of a challenge which has borne its fruits. According to the "Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development", SSN ranks second in the world classification of the return on the health care services in 2000. The World Health Organization has published in 2005 the same result: SSN ranks second in the world for ability and quality of the health care in relationship to the resources invested The continuous reforms of health care system introduced stability to the Italian system more than others countries. Success of SSN function rooted in the ability of system to adapt assuring mechanism of positive feed-back correction. In the future SSN, will required new set of reforms, such as redefinition of structures and mechanisms of governance, strategic plans, clinical administrations.

Serving the world's poor, profitably.

PubMed

Prahalad, C K; Hammond, Allen

2002-09-01

By stimulating commerce and development at the bottom of the economic pyramid, multi-nationals could radically improve the lives of billions of people and help create a more stable, less dangerous world. Achieving this goal does not require MNCs to spearhead global social-development initiatives for charitable purposes. They need only act in their own self-interest. How? The authors lay out the business case for entering the world's poorest markets. Fully 65% of the world's population earns less than $2,000 per year--that's 4 billion people. But despite the vastness of this market, it remains largely untapped. The reluctance to invest is easy to understand, but it is, by and large, based on outdated assumptions of the developing world. While individual incomes may be low, the aggregate buying power of poor communities is actually quite large, representing a substantial market in many countries for what some might consider luxury goods like satellite television and phone services. Prices, and margins, are often much higher in poor neighborhoods than in their middle-class counterparts. And new technologies are already steadily reducing the effects of corruption, illiteracy, inadequate infrastructure, and other such barriers. Because these markets are in the earliest stages of economic development, revenue growth for multi-nationals entering them can be extremely rapid. MNCs can also lower costs, not only through low-cost labor but by transferring operating efficiencies and innovations developed to serve their existing operations. Certainly, succeeding in such markets requires MNCs to think creatively. The biggest change, though, has to come from executives: Unless business leaders confront their own preconceptions--particularly about the value of high-volume, low-margin businesses--companies are unlikely to master the challenges or reap the rewards of these developing markets.

Exploring Medieval European Society with Chess: An Engaging Activity for the World History Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pagnotti, John; Russell, William B., III

2012-01-01

In a typical high school World History course, the teacher must teach thousands of years of human history in one year, thus making it the most comprehensive history course offered in school. Given the extended content requirements in a World History course, individual topics are given little time before the class must "move on" to the…

Use of Second Life in Social Work Education: Virtual World Experiences and Their Effect on Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reinsmith-Jones, Kelley; Kibbe, Sharon; Crayton, Traci; Campbell, Elana

2015-01-01

During the past 10 years, there has been a growing use of distance education, including the practice of holding classes in virtual world educational formats such as Second Life. Both the psychiatric and medical fields have caught on quickly to the functionality of virtual world teaching, yet social service educators have not ventured likewise.…

Graphene Oxide Derivatives as Hole- and Electron-Extraction Layers for High-Performance Polymer Solar Cells

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-11-20

Graphene oxide derivatives as hole- and electron- extraction layers for high-performance polymer solar cells Jun Liu,*a Michael Durstockb and Liming...oxide (GO) and its derivatives have been used as a new class of efficient hole- and electron-extraction materials in polymer solar cells (PSCs...new class of efficient hole- and electron-extraction materials in polymer solar cells (PSCs). Highly efficient and stable PSCs have been fabricated

Crossing Borders: The Role of Discourse Diversity in Multicultural Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ayers, Rick

2014-01-01

In today's complex, multicultural world, discourses and language vernaculars are more diverse than ever. Educational institutions often privilege the historically dominant vernacular (such as white middle-class English which is sometimes called "Standard English"). This language bias disadvantages students form working class and…

Spirituality and mental health: a very preliminary overview.

PubMed

Gilbert, Peter Duncan

2007-11-01

Demand for the spiritual dimension to be taken account of in the diagnosis, treatment and care of people with mental ill-health has come strongly from users, carers and professionals. Research in the US over the past 10 years has shown a clear correlation between affiliation to a religious group and better outcomes in terms of mental and physical health, and even longevity. In the UK, however, the evidence from research is much less clear, and needs a more focused approach to really elucidate what helps people stay mentally healthy and recover from mental ill-health. Spirituality is now a key issue as individuals, communities and mental health services struggle to combine technical efficacy and business efficiency, but remain human, so as to nurture service users, carers and staff. This is set in a postmodern world, scarred by the trauma of 9/11 and its aftermaths, and in the context of a global consumerism, which has resulted in individuals being increasingly atomized and isolated. A consumerist society means that those classed as 'deficient consumers', especially those whose ill-health and/or poverty excludes them from the marketplace, are seen as outsiders and a dangerous class.

The new collaborative path in medical device development: the medical device innovation consortium.

PubMed

Kampfrath, Thomas; Cotten, Steven W

2013-10-01

The United States medical device market is the world's largest with over $100 billion in sales in 2011. Despite robust industry growth, the efficiency of the FDA approval process for moderate-risk (Class II) and high-risk devices (Class III) requiring 510(k) submission or pre-market approval (PMA) has been criticized. Recently, the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) announced the creation of a Medical Device Innovation Consortium (MDIC), a public-private partnership (PPP) to share knowledge in regulatory science. Overarching goals include creating a forum for the exchange of ideas among the FDA, industry, and non-profit entities; providing monetary investments for project proposals prioritized by key working groups; and developing tools that support cost effective innovation, data-driven methodology, and implementation strategies. Clinical chemists and clinical laboratory scientists have several unique opportunities to contribute to the MDIC. These laboratory professionals have invaluable experience with the real-life performance of a variety of medical devices and their expertise can recognize unmet needs and contribute towards the acceleration of device development. Copyright © 2013 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Inhibition of class IIb histone deacetylase significantly improves cloning efficiency in mice.

PubMed

Ono, Tetsuo; Li, Chong; Mizutani, Eiji; Terashita, Yukari; Yamagata, Kazuo; Wakayama, Teruhiko

2010-12-01

Since the first mouse clone was produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer, the success rate of cloning in mice has been extremely low. Some histone deacetylase inhibitors, such as trichostatin A and scriptaid, have improved the full-term development of mouse clones significantly, but the mechanisms allowing for this are unclear. Here, we found that two other specific inhibitors, suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid and oxamflatin, could also reduce the rate of apoptosis in blastocysts, improve the full-term development of cloned mice, and increase establishment of nuclear transfer-generated embryonic stem cell lines significantly without leading to obvious abnormalities. However, another inhibitor, valproic acid, could not improve cloning efficiency. Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid, oxamflatin, trichostatin A, and scriptaid are inhibitors for classes I and IIa/b histone deacetylase, whereas valproic acid is an inhibitor for classes I and IIa, suggesting that inhibiting class IIb histone deacetylase is an important step for reprogramming mouse cloning efficiency.

ESEA Reauthorization: The Importance of a World-Class K-12 Education for Our Economic Success. Hearing of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, United States Senate, One Hundred Eleventh Congress, Second Session on Examining Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Reauthorization, Focusing on K-12 Education for Economic Success (March 9, 2010). Senate Hearing 111-885

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

US Senate, 2011

2011-01-01

This hearing of the Committee of Health, Education, Labor and Pensions focused on the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. This hearing on the economic importance of having a world-class K-12 education system should remind everyone of the critical importance of this reauthorization. Well-educated Americans are the single…

Current-flow efficiency of networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Kai; Yan, Xiaoyong

2018-02-01

Many real-world networks, from infrastructure networks to social and communication networks, can be formulated as flow networks. How to realistically measure the transport efficiency of these networks is of fundamental importance. The shortest-path-based efficiency measurement has limitations, as it assumes that flow travels only along those shortest paths. Here, we propose a new metric named current-flow efficiency, in which we calculate the average reciprocal effective resistance between all pairs of nodes in the network. This metric takes the multipath effect into consideration and is more suitable for measuring the efficiency of many real-world flow equilibrium networks. Moreover, this metric can handle a disconnected graph and can thus be used to identify critical nodes and edges from the efficiency-loss perspective. We further analyze how the topological structure affects the current-flow efficiency of networks based on some model and real-world networks. Our results enable a better understanding of flow networks and shed light on the design and improvement of such networks with higher transport efficiency.

Social class, Mexican culture, and fatalism: their effects on psychological distress.

PubMed

Ross, C E; Mirowsky, J; Cockerham, W C

1983-08-01

We examine the causes and consequences of fatalism in a cross-cultural setting, focusing on the ways in which a fatalistic world view may mediate the effects of social class and Mexican ethnic identity on psychological distress. We find that persons in the lower social classes and Mexicans tend to be more fatalistic than persons in the upper classes and Anglos, and that fatalism, in turn, increases psychological distress. We attempt to integrate research on the social and cultural determinants of cognitive orientations with studies of the effects of social class and Mexican culture on distress.

Chinese Arms Production and Sales for the Third World

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-01-01

Egypt J-6 fighter 60 Guinea Shanghai-class patrol boat 4 Kampuchea (Khmer Rouge) Type-59 MBT NA HJ-73 ATGW 200+ J-5 fighter 4 J-6 fighter 16 North Korea...Shanghai-class patrol boat 6 Tunisia Shanghai-class patrol boat 2 Zaire T-62 light tank 50 Type-56/-59/- 60 /-63 arty 80 Huanchen-class FAC(T) 4 Zambia T-59...fighter 75+ J-7 fighter 60 Chaho-class patrol boat 3 HY-2/FL-1 antishipping missile 72+ C-801 antishipping missile 100 Iraq Type-59 MBT 1000 Type-69 MBT

Pushing the Limit: A Class Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Odafe, Victor U.

2012-01-01

Instructors are constantly struggling to help students understand mathematical concepts as well as the relevance of mathematics to the real world. In calculus, students possess misconceptions of the limit concept. "Pushing the Limit" refers to a semester-long calculus class project that required students to read about, interview calculus…

Evaluating Reactions to Community Bridge Initiative Pilot Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Koldewyn, Julie; Brain, Roslynn; Stephens, Kate

2017-01-01

Does participating in an integrated service-learning project aimed at improving local sustainability issues result in significant professional real-world application for students? This study aimed to answer that question by evaluating student reactions to pilot classes featuring a sustainability-based service-learning program, Community Bridge…

An Evaluation of the Dynamics of the Plan to Develop First-Class Universities and Top-Level Research Centers in Taiwan

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chang, Dian-fu; Wu, Cheng-ta; Ching, Gregory S.; Tang, Chia-wei

2009-01-01

The recent rise in globalization has brought forth a global wave of academic competitiveness, which has taken its strongest hold in East Asia. In order to attain world class status, Taiwan's Ministry of Education (MoE) initiated a project called Plan to Develop First-class Universities and Top-level Research Centers. The project is often coined…

The Camera Lens: A Window into the [World]; Film Study and Film Making: Resource Suggestions for the English Class.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mihalka, Gwendolyn C.; Bolton, Gerre M.

This guide for film study and film making in the secondary English class arranges materials in a sequential order and divides them into four major sections. The section on background information includes: Table of Contents, Design for Use of the Guide, Rationale for the Use of Film Study in the English Class, Objectives for a Film Study and Film…

EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TRUCK EFFICIENCY TECHNOLOGIES IN CLASS 8 TRACTOR-TRAILERS BASED ON A TRACTIVE ENERGY ANALYSIS USING MEASURED DRIVE CYCLE DATA

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

LaClair, Tim J; Gao, Zhiming; Fu, Joshua S.

2014-01-01

Quantifying the fuel savings that can be achieved from different truck fuel efficiency technologies for a fleet s specific usage allows the fleet to select the combination of technologies that will yield the greatest operational efficiency and profitability. This paper presents an analysis of vehicle usage in a commercial vehicle fleet and an assessment of advanced efficiency technologies using an analysis of measured drive cycle data for a class 8 regional commercial shipping fleet. Drive cycle measurements during a period of a full year from six tractor-trailers in normal operations in a less-than-truckload (LTL) carrier were analyzed to develop amore » characteristic drive cycle that is highly representative of the fleet s usage. The vehicle mass was also estimated to account for the variation of loads that the fleet experienced. The drive cycle and mass data were analyzed using a tractive energy analysis to quantify the fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions benefits that can be achieved on class 8 tractor-trailers when using advanced efficiency technologies, either individually or in combination. Although differences exist among class 8 tractor-trailer fleets, this study provides valuable insight into the energy and emissions reduction potential that various technologies can bring in this important trucking application.« less

Learning for Change in World Society: Reflections, Activities and Resources.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

One World Trust, London (England).

The resource booklet contains readings and activities for British secondary school world affairs classes. The material lends itself toward incorporation into various curricula, including history, geography, social studies, humanities, environmental studies, language and literature, home economics, math, and science. Subject matter focuses on…

Women's Weight Lifting: Elevating a Sport to World-Class Status.

PubMed

Giel, D

1988-04-01

The first women's world weight-lifting competition-held last fall in Daytona Beach, Florida-is evidence that the sport is growing and building its case for Olympic medal status. But little is known about the medical aspects of weight lifting for women.

The management and design of economic development projects: A case study of World Bank electricity projects in Egypt

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

El Sabaa, S.M.

1992-01-01

This study is concerned with the efficiency of World Bank projects in Egypt. The study seeks improvements in the methods of evaluating public sector projects in Egypt. To approaches are employed: (1) project identification to optimally allocate Egypt's and World Bank's resources; (2) project appraisal to assess the economic viability and efficiency of investments. The electricity sector is compared with the agriculture sector as a means of employing project identification for priority ordering of investment for development in Egypt. The key criteria for evaluation are the impacts of developments of each sector upon Egypt's national objectives and needs. These includemore » employment opportunities, growth, alleviation of poverty, cross comparison of per capita consumption in each sector, economic rate of return, national security, balance of payments and foreign debt. The allocation of scarce investments would have been more efficient in agriculture than in electricity in meeting Egypt's national objectives and needs. World Bank lending programs in Egypt reveal a priority ordering of electricity over agriculture and rural development. World Bank development projects in Egypt have not been optimally identified, and its programs have not followed an efficient allocation of World Bank's and Egypt's resources. The key parameters in evaluating economic viability and efficiency of development projects are: (1) the discount rate (the opportunity cost of public funds); (2) the exchange rate; and (3) the cost of major inputs, as approximated by shadow prices of labor, water, electricity, and transportation for development projects. Alternative approaches to estimating the opportunity cost of public funds are made. The parameters in evaluating the efficiency of projects have not been accurately estimated in the appraisal stage of the World Bank projects in Egypt, resulting in false or misleading information concerning the economic viability and efficiency of the projects.« less

(Inadvertently) Instructing Missionaries in (Public University) World Religions Courses: Examining a Pedagogical Dilemma, Its Dimensions, and a Course Section Solution

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karapanagiotis, Nicole

2017-01-01

In this article, I explore an ethical and pedagogical dilemma that I encounter each semester in my world religions courses: namely, that a great number of students enroll in the courses as part of their missionary training programs, and come to class understanding successful learning to mean gathering enough information about the world's religious…

Successful development of first-generation laser device; marking China's optoelectronic technology at world class level

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1995-04-01

Bell Laboratories has developed the world's first optical information processor. Its core device is a self-excited electrooptical effect apparatus array of symmetric operation. After being developed in the United States, this high-technology device was successfully developed by China's scientists,thus making the fact that China's optoelectronic technology is among the most advanced in the world.

"I Had All Kinds of Kids in My Classes, and It Was Fine": Public Schooling in Richmond, California, During World War II

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dorn, Charles

2005-01-01

In this article, the author discusses the experiences of Marian Sauer as one of the teachers during World War II. Marian Sauer, began teaching at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in Richmond, California, in 1942. During World War II, Richmond's population skyrocketed, as a direct result of homefront mobilization and school enrollments grew six…

Quality and the New Flagship University Ideal in Asian Higher Education. Research & Occasional Paper Series: CSHE.12.17

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ericson, David P.

2017-01-01

A singular vision has propelled higher education and ministries of education in Asia since the new millennium. It is a vision launched by the once rising tide of a globalized world order that spilled into higher education: in order to be competitive on the world scene, each Asian country had to build "World Class Universities," which…

Accelerator performance analysis of the Fermilab Muon Campus

DOE PAGES

Stratakis, Diktys; Convery, Mary E.; Johnstone, Carol; ...

2017-11-21

Fermilab is dedicated to hosting world-class experiments in search of new physics that will operate in the coming years. The Muon g-2 Experiment is one such experiment that will determine with unprecedented precision the muon anomalous magnetic moment, which offers an important test of the Standard Model. We describe in this study the accelerator facility that will deliver a muon beam to this experiment. We first present the lattice design that allows for efficient capture, transport, and delivery of polarized muon beams. We then numerically examine its performance by simulating pion production in the target, muon collection by the downstreammore » beam line optics, as well as transport of muon polarization. Lastly, we finally establish the conditions required for the safe removal of unwanted secondary particles that minimizes contamination of the final beam.« less

A Comparison of Genetic Programming Variants for Hyper-Heuristics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Harris, Sean

Modern society is faced with ever more complex problems, many of which can be formulated as generate-and-test optimization problems. General-purpose optimization algorithms are not well suited for real-world scenarios where many instances of the same problem class need to be repeatedly and efficiently solved, such as routing vehicles over highways with constantly changing traffic flows, because they are not targeted to a particular scenario. Hyper-heuristics automate the design of algorithms to create a custom algorithm for a particular scenario. Hyper-heuristics typically employ Genetic Programming (GP) and this project has investigated the relationship between the choice of GP and performance inmore » Hyper-heuristics. Results are presented demonstrating the existence of problems for which there is a statistically significant performance differential between the use of different types of GP.« less

NICER Mission

NASA Image and Video Library

2017-12-08

This video previews the Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer (NICER). NICER is an Astrophysics Mission of Opportunity within NASA’s Explorer program, which provides frequent flight opportunities for world-class scientific investigations from space utilizing innovative, streamlined and efficient management approaches within the heliophysics and astrophysics science areas. NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate supports the SEXTANT component of the mission, demonstrating pulsar-based spacecraft navigation. NICER is an upcoming International Space Station payload scheduled to launch in June 2017. Learn more about the mission at nasa.gov/nicer NASA image use policy. NASA Goddard Space Flight Center enables NASA’s mission through four scientific endeavors: Earth Science, Heliophysics, Solar System Exploration, and Astrophysics. Goddard plays a leading role in NASA’s accomplishments by contributing compelling scientific knowledge to advance the Agency’s mission. Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook Find us on Instagram

Characterization of diode-laser stacks for high-energy-class solid state lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pilar, Jan; Sikocinski, Pawel; Pranowicz, Alina; Divoky, Martin; Crump, P.; Staske, R.; Lucianetti, Antonio; Mocek, Tomas

2014-03-01

In this work, we present a comparative study of high power diode stacks produced by world's leading manufacturers such as DILAS, Jenoptik, and Quantel. The diode-laser stacks are characterized by central wavelength around 939 nm, duty cycle of 1 %, and maximum repetition rate of 10 Hz. The characterization includes peak power, electrical-to-optical efficiency, central wavelength and full width at half maximum (FWHM) as a function of diode current and cooling temperature. A cross-check of measurements performed at HiLASE-IoP and Ferdinand-Braun-Institut (FBH) shows very good agreement between the results. Our study reveals also the presence of discontinuities in the spectra of two diode stacks. We consider the results presented here a valuable tool to optimize pump sources for ultra-high average power lasers, including laser fusion facilities.

Random graph models for dynamic networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xiao; Moore, Cristopher; Newman, Mark E. J.

2017-10-01

Recent theoretical work on the modeling of network structure has focused primarily on networks that are static and unchanging, but many real-world networks change their structure over time. There exist natural generalizations to the dynamic case of many static network models, including the classic random graph, the configuration model, and the stochastic block model, where one assumes that the appearance and disappearance of edges are governed by continuous-time Markov processes with rate parameters that can depend on properties of the nodes. Here we give an introduction to this class of models, showing for instance how one can compute their equilibrium properties. We also demonstrate their use in data analysis and statistical inference, giving efficient algorithms for fitting them to observed network data using the method of maximum likelihood. This allows us, for example, to estimate the time constants of network evolution or infer community structure from temporal network data using cues embedded both in the probabilities over time that node pairs are connected by edges and in the characteristic dynamics of edge appearance and disappearance. We illustrate these methods with a selection of applications, both to computer-generated test networks and real-world examples.

Recurrence network measures for hypothesis testing using surrogate data: Application to black hole light curves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacob, Rinku; Harikrishnan, K. P.; Misra, R.; Ambika, G.

2018-01-01

Recurrence networks and the associated statistical measures have become important tools in the analysis of time series data. In this work, we test how effective the recurrence network measures are in analyzing real world data involving two main types of noise, white noise and colored noise. We use two prominent network measures as discriminating statistic for hypothesis testing using surrogate data for a specific null hypothesis that the data is derived from a linear stochastic process. We show that the characteristic path length is especially efficient as a discriminating measure with the conclusions reasonably accurate even with limited number of data points in the time series. We also highlight an additional advantage of the network approach in identifying the dimensionality of the system underlying the time series through a convergence measure derived from the probability distribution of the local clustering coefficients. As examples of real world data, we use the light curves from a prominent black hole system and show that a combined analysis using three primary network measures can provide vital information regarding the nature of temporal variability of light curves from different spectroscopic classes.

LANL Multiyear Strategy Performance Improvement (MYSPI), Fiscal Years 2017–2021

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Leasure, Craig Scott

2016-05-03

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) protects the nation and the world using innovative science, technology, and engineering through an integrated approach that harnesses the strength of our people, capabilities, and operations. The Laboratory’s Strategic Plan and Purpose statement provide the framework for scientific excellence and operational excellence now and in the future. Our Strategic Plan and Purpose help position Los Alamos for continuing mission success that ensures the safety, security, and effectiveness of the nation’s deterrent; protects the nation from nuclear and emerging threats through our larger global security missions; provides energy security to the nation; and ensures that themore » nation’s scientific reputation and capabilities remain robust enough to assure our allies and deter our adversaries. Moreover, we use these principles and guidance to ensure that Los Alamos is successful in attracting, recruiting, and retaining the next generation of world-class talent, while creating an efficient, environmentally responsible workplace that provides our employees with access to modern scientific tools and resources. Using this guidance and its underlying principles, we are continuing to restore credibility and operational effectiveness to the Laboratory, deliver mission success and continuing scientific excellence, and protect our employees and the nation’s secrets.« less

Multivariate class modeling techniques applied to multielement analysis for the verification of the geographical origin of chili pepper.

PubMed

Naccarato, Attilio; Furia, Emilia; Sindona, Giovanni; Tagarelli, Antonio

2016-09-01

Four class-modeling techniques (soft independent modeling of class analogy (SIMCA), unequal dispersed classes (UNEQ), potential functions (PF), and multivariate range modeling (MRM)) were applied to multielement distribution to build chemometric models able to authenticate chili pepper samples grown in Calabria respect to those grown outside of Calabria. The multivariate techniques were applied by considering both all the variables (32 elements, Al, As, Ba, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Dy, Fe, Ga, La, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Nd, Ni, Pb, Pr, Rb, Sc, Se, Sr, Tl, Tm, V, Y, Yb, Zn) and variables selected by means of stepwise linear discriminant analysis (S-LDA). In the first case, satisfactory and comparable results in terms of CV efficiency are obtained with the use of SIMCA and MRM (82.3 and 83.2% respectively), whereas MRM performs better than SIMCA in terms of forced model efficiency (96.5%). The selection of variables by S-LDA permitted to build models characterized, in general, by a higher efficiency. MRM provided again the best results for CV efficiency (87.7% with an effective balance of sensitivity and specificity) as well as forced model efficiency (96.5%). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Classes of real-world 'small-world' networks: From the neural network of C. Elegans to the web of human sexual contacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nunes Amaral, Luis A.

2002-03-01

We study the statistical properties of a variety of diverse real-world networks including the neural network of C. Elegans, food webs for seven distinct environments, transportation and technological networks, and a number of distinct social networks [1-5]. We present evidence of the occurrence of three classes of small-world networks [2]: (a) scale-free networks, characterized by a vertex connectivity distribution that decays as a power law; (b) broad-scale networks, characterized by a connectivity distribution that has a power-law regime followed by a sharp cut-off; (c) single-scale networks, characterized by a connectivity distribution with a fast decaying tail. Moreover, we note for the classes of broad-scale and single-scale networks that there are constraints limiting the addition of new links. Our results suggest that the nature of such constraints may be the controlling factor for the emergence of different classes of networks. [See http://polymer.bu.edu/ amaral/Networks.html for details and htpp://polymer.bu.edu/ amaral/Professional.html for access to PDF files of articles.] 1. M. Barthélémy, L. A. N. Amaral, Phys. Rev. Lett. 82, 3180-3183 (1999). 2. L. A. N. Amaral, A. Scala, M. Barthélémy, H. E. Stanley, Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. USA 97, 11149-11152 (2000). 3. F. Liljeros, C. R. Edling, L. A. N. Amaral, H. E. Stanley, and Y. Åberg, Nature 411, 907-908 (2001). 4. J. Camacho, R. Guimera, L.A.N. Amaral, Phys. Rev. E RC (to appear). 5. S. Mossa, M. Barthelemy, H.E. Stanley, L.A.N. Amaral (submitted).

Social Studies: It's a Family Affair.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Melendez, Ruth

1999-01-01

Describes an elementary-level family tree project for social studies classes that teaches students about their personal history and the country's diverse culture. Children complete a family tree chart, then the class creates visual presentations using a world map and bar graph. Finally, students write summary statements based on the family trees,…

The Flipped Classroom in World History

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gaughan, Judy E.

2014-01-01

The flipped Classroom is one in which lectures are presented as homework outside of class in online videos so that class time is reserved for engaging directly with the materials. This technique offers more personalized guidance and interaction with students, instead of lecturing. In this article, Judy Gaughan details her journey through choosing…

Energy Consumption and Cost Savings of Truck Electrification for Heavy-Duty Vehicle Applications

DOE PAGES

Gao, Zhiming; Lin, Zhenhong; Franzese, Oscar

2017-01-01

Our paper evaluates the application of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and genset plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) to Class-7 local delivery trucks and genset PHEV for Class-8 utility bucket trucks over widely real-world driving data performed by conventional heavy-duty trucks.

Creating Aliens: The Ultimate Life Sciences Activity.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beltramo, Dan

2001-01-01

Describes a seven-week project completed by the author's eighth-grade science students (as they studied "the chemistry of living things") in which they designed an alien and its world using the scientific concepts that they learned in class. Compares class presentations using PowerPoint software to presentations using posterboard. (SR)

Decoding ClassDojo: Psycho-Policy, Social-Emotional Learning and Persuasive Educational Technologies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Williamson, Ben

2017-01-01

ClassDojo is one of the world's most successful educational technologies, currently used by over 3 million teachers and 35 million children globally. It reinforces and enacts emerging governmental "psycho-policies" around the measurement and modification of children's social and emotional learning in schools. This article focuses…

Constructing Adulthood in an Age of Uncertainty

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Silva, Jennifer M.

2012-01-01

Past research in both the transitions to adulthood literature and cultural sociology more broadly suggests that the working class relies on traditional cultural models in their construction of identity. In the contemporary post-industrial world, however, traditional life pathways are now much less available to working-class men and women. I draw…

A Global Integration: Internationalizing a Public Speaking Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lyons, Florence A.

2017-01-01

Institutions of higher education around the world have responded to the challenge of globalization by internationalizing their curricula. Incorporating elements of cross-cultural examination to a freshman Fundamentals of Public Speaking class proved to be an important first step toward globalization for this speech professor. In the class,…

On the Treatment of Authors, Outliers, and Purchasing Power Parity Exchange Rates.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jaeger, Richard M.

1993-01-01

Ruth Stott violates canons of scholarly debate by attacking author's October 1992 "Kappan" article on world-class academic standards. Average class size predicted only 10% of variation in 13 year-olds' mean mathematics scores in 14 nations supplying reasonable comprehensive sampling frames for International Assessment of Academic…

A Fundamental Study for Efficient Implementaion of Online Collaborative Activities in Large-Scale Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Matsuba, Ryuichi; Suzuki, Yusei; Kubota, Shin-Ichiro; Miyazaki, Makoto

2015-01-01

We study tactics for writing skills development through cross-disciplinary learning in online large-scale classes, and particularly are interested in implementation of online collaborative activities such as peer reviewing of writing. The goal of our study is to carry out collaborative works efficiently via online effectively in large-scale…

Power and Authority: A Lesson Strategy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lankiewicz, Donald

1985-01-01

Upon completion of these two lessons, high school students will be able to distinguish between power and authority and analyze how individuals or groups exercise power. The lesson, which can be used in world history classes, deals with the period of time between the two world wars. (RM)

Women in a Technological World: An Interdisciplinary Core Course at Emmanuel College in Boston.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Contrucci, Joyce; Fischer, Britta

1990-01-01

Described is a course focused on how women are globally connected through experiences with technology. Specific topics include computers, world hunger, reproductive strategies, and solid waste disposal. Discussed is the impact of the class on students and the faculty. (KR)

Experiencing a Changing World.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rice, Patricia

1994-01-01

Describes the Living in a Changing World program, a series of half-day classes offered by the Saint Louis archdiocesan schools at a zoo, historical museum, botanical garden, archaeological center, science center, and arboretum. Through letter writing, social events, and field trips, the program pairs and provides interaction between fourth-…

Briefing Teams in World Affairs Class.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dunn, Joe P.

1992-01-01

In a college world affairs course, the teacher acted as foreign policy/national security advisor to the president and assigned students as staff members for different geographic regions. Students briefed him daily, first on current events, then on specific issues. Students enjoyed the challenging assignments, intensive questioning, and policy…

Critiquing Statistics in Student and Professional Worlds

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, Ryan Seth; Lehrer, Richard; Kim, Min-Joung

2017-01-01

This article compares students' critiques within a class discussion about an invented statistic to STEM professionals' critiques from interviews to better understand how the situated meanings of a statistic are similar and different across student and professional worlds. We discuss similarities and differences in how participants constructed…

Multiple sclerosis rehabilitation outcomes: analysis of a national casemix data set from Australia.

PubMed

Khan, F; Turner-Stokes, L; Stevermuer, T; Simmonds, F

2009-07-01

To examine the outcomes of inpatient rehabilitation for persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), using the Australian Rehabilitation Outcomes Centre (AROC) database. Deidentified data from the AROC database were analyzed for all rehabilitation admissions during 2003-2007, using four classes for functional level. The outcomes included Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores and efficiency, hospital length of stay (LOS), and discharge destination. Of 1010 case episodes, 70% were women, admitted from home (n = 851) and discharged into the community (n = 890), and 97% (n = 986) were in the higher three classes for functional level (classes 216, 217, and 218). Majority of the more disabled pwMS were treated in the public hospital system, with a longer LOS compared with private facilities (P < 0.001). The FIM for classes 216-218 showed significant functional improvement during the admission (P < 0.001), and those in higher classes showed less change (likely due to higher FIM admission scores). FIM efficiency was significantly higher in class 217 than other classes (P < 0.001). The year-on-year trend was toward reducing hospital LOS and FIM efficiency, but these did not reach significance (P = 0.107, P = 0.634). The AROC data set is useful for describing rehabilitation outcomes for pwMS. However, additional information needs to be collected to evaluate nature of services provided and service implications.

Calibrated birth-death phylogenetic time-tree priors for bayesian inference.

PubMed

Heled, Joseph; Drummond, Alexei J

2015-05-01

Here we introduce a general class of multiple calibration birth-death tree priors for use in Bayesian phylogenetic inference. All tree priors in this class separate ancestral node heights into a set of "calibrated nodes" and "uncalibrated nodes" such that the marginal distribution of the calibrated nodes is user-specified whereas the density ratio of the birth-death prior is retained for trees with equal values for the calibrated nodes. We describe two formulations, one in which the calibration information informs the prior on ranked tree topologies, through the (conditional) prior, and the other which factorizes the prior on divergence times and ranked topologies, thus allowing uniform, or any arbitrary prior distribution on ranked topologies. Although the first of these formulations has some attractive properties, the algorithm we present for computing its prior density is computationally intensive. However, the second formulation is always faster and computationally efficient for up to six calibrations. We demonstrate the utility of the new class of multiple-calibration tree priors using both small simulations and a real-world analysis and compare the results to existing schemes. The two new calibrated tree priors described in this article offer greater flexibility and control of prior specification in calibrated time-tree inference and divergence time dating, and will remove the need for indirect approaches to the assessment of the combined effect of calibration densities and tree priors in Bayesian phylogenetic inference. © The Author(s) 2014. Published by Oxford University Press, on behalf of the Society of Systematic Biologists.

Multiple Kernel Sparse Representation based Orthogonal Discriminative Projection and Its Cost-Sensitive Extension.

PubMed

Zhang, Guoqing; Sun, Huaijiang; Xia, Guiyu; Sun, Quansen

2016-07-07

Sparse representation based classification (SRC) has been developed and shown great potential for real-world application. Based on SRC, Yang et al. [10] devised a SRC steered discriminative projection (SRC-DP) method. However, as a linear algorithm, SRC-DP cannot handle the data with highly nonlinear distribution. Kernel sparse representation-based classifier (KSRC) is a non-linear extension of SRC and can remedy the drawback of SRC. KSRC requires the use of a predetermined kernel function and selection of the kernel function and its parameters is difficult. Recently, multiple kernel learning for SRC (MKL-SRC) [22] has been proposed to learn a kernel from a set of base kernels. However, MKL-SRC only considers the within-class reconstruction residual while ignoring the between-class relationship, when learning the kernel weights. In this paper, we propose a novel multiple kernel sparse representation-based classifier (MKSRC), and then we use it as a criterion to design a multiple kernel sparse representation based orthogonal discriminative projection method (MK-SR-ODP). The proposed algorithm aims at learning a projection matrix and a corresponding kernel from the given base kernels such that in the low dimension subspace the between-class reconstruction residual is maximized and the within-class reconstruction residual is minimized. Furthermore, to achieve a minimum overall loss by performing recognition in the learned low-dimensional subspace, we introduce cost information into the dimensionality reduction method. The solutions for the proposed method can be efficiently found based on trace ratio optimization method [33]. Extensive experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed algorithm when compared with the state-of-the-art methods.

Improving the Awareness of the Influence of Geography Upon Historical Events in Ancient Mesopotamia and in Ancient Egypt in Ninth Grade World History Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Milton, Henry

This practicum was designed to incorporate the study of geography into a ninth grade world history class with the aim of improving student awareness of the influence of geography upon the historical development of ancient Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt. By means of a questionnaire and map tests it was determined that ninth grade world history…

Mathematical Modeling of Electrodynamics Near the Surface of Earth and Planetary Water Worlds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tyler, Robert H.

2017-01-01

An interesting feature of planetary bodies with hydrospheres is the presence of an electrically conducting shell near the global surface. This conducting shell may typically lie between relatively insulating rock, ice, or atmosphere, creating a strong constraint on the flow of large-scale electric currents. All or parts of the shell may be in fluid motion relative to main components of the rotating planetary magnetic field (as well as the magnetic fields due to external bodies), creating motionally-induced electric currents that would not otherwise be present. As such, one may expect distinguishing features in the types of electrodynamic processes that occur, as well as an opportunity for imposing specialized mathematical methods that efficiently address this class of application. The purpose of this paper is to present and discuss such specialized methods. Specifically, thin-shell approximations for both the electrodynamics and fluid dynamics are combined to derive simplified mathematical formulations describing the behavior of these electric currents as well as their associated electric and magnetic fields. These simplified formulae allow analytical solutions featuring distinct aspects of the thin-shell electrodynamics in idealized cases. A highly efficient numerical method is also presented that is useful for calculations under inhomogeneous parameter distributions. Finally, the advantages as well as limitations in using this mathematical approach are evaluated. This evaluation is presented primarily for the generic case of bodies with water worlds or other thin spherical conducting shells. More specific discussion is given for the case of Earth, but also Europa and other satellites with suspected oceans.

The Centennial Essay.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thurow, Lester

1991-01-01

The dean of MIT's Sloan School of Management, Lester Thurow, is a world-class economist and author of books advocating the need for a more competitive U.S. economy. The United States is the only industrial country lacking a postsecondary education system for noncollege bound students. In a world economy, student quality matters more than natural…

An Ocean Mural.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Graham, Frank; Graham, Ada

1998-01-01

Introduces a class project on oceans, fishes, and fishing industries around the world. Groups of students make a mural of the world, filling the oceans with accurate drawings of fish, fishing boats, and fishing equipment. Students learn about the importance of fish in various cultures and about the migration routes of fish. Includes a resource…

Factors Affecting Nontraditional African American Students' Participation in Online World Literature Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Merrills, J. Maria Sweeney

2010-01-01

The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine how communication preferences, learning preferences, and perceptions about online learning affect nontraditional African American students' participation in online world literature courses at a historically Black university (HBCU) in the southeastern United States. An instrumental case study was…

A Virtual World with Real Results

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hughes, Katherine L.; Golann, Joanne Wang

2008-01-01

This article describes how students learn invaluable job-readiness and academic skills by setting up and running their own businesses in a virtual world. Virtual Enterprises (VE) International is a high school career and technical education (CTE) program that teaches students about business by having a class create and operate its own virtual…

Technology in Adult Education ESOL Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ball, Nancy

2011-01-01

Today's world is filled with technology resources such as cellphones, iPods, laptops and the internet. By using these technological resources, adult education ESOL teachers can improve instruction, boost learning and better prepare students for real world English use. This article examines advantages of technology use and offers examples of…

School Leadership Preparation and Development in Africa: A Critical Insight

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eacott, Scott; Asuga, Gladys Nyanchama

2014-01-01

When it comes to organizational performance, leaders matter. Without significant attention to the preparation and development of school leaders, government initiatives aimed at building world class education systems are unlikely to succeed. Across the Anglophone world leadership preparation and development has become a key leverage point in…

Imagined Worlds in Theatre and Drama.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Neill, Cecily

1985-01-01

The essential nature of drama is a liberating act of imagination, of self-transcendence. A session is described in which the class maintained the delicate balance of dual consciousness and focused its attention and empathy on an illusory but possible world, creating and being responsible for the meaning of its construction. (MT)

Getting Inclusion Right in South Africa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walton, Elizabeth

2011-01-01

The years after the Second World War have seen many countries in the developed and developing world dismantle separate special education systems and promote the education of children with disabilities or other support needs in regular rather than separate classes. This process of increasing access and participation and reducing exclusionary…

Applied Linguistics Research on Asianness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kobayashi, Yoko

2011-01-01

As China is increasingly occupying the world's attention, its explosively expanding economical and political clout has also been felt in the applied linguistics domain, with the discussion on China's/Chinese language issues growing by leaps and bounds (e.g. China's English education policies, Chinese language classes in the West). Amid the world's…

Dance Specialists around the World--A Living History

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Musmon, Margaret; Welsh, Kariamu; Heath, Freddie-Lee; Minton, Sandra; Laverty, Mary Ann; Maeshiba, Naoko; Weeks, Sandy; Cardinal, Marita K.; Howton, Amy; Tavacioglu, Leyla

2008-01-01

Dance embraces the entire globe. Universities offer world dance classes to expose students to various styles and educators travel to different countries to experience how dance is viewed, performed, and taught in different cultures. In this article nine dance educators share their experiences of teaching and observing dance abroad. These accounts…

Teaching World History with "Things Fall Apart."

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Feldmann, Martha J.

1995-01-01

Recommends using Chinua Achebe's novel of the 19th-century conflict between African tribal culture and English colonists in a world history class. Achebe's rich narrative, written in a graceful prose, is easily accessible to high school students. The novel replaces simplistic and abstract concepts with those more complex and concrete. (MJP)

Undergraduate Student Self-Efficacy and Perceptions of Virtual World Learning Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stanton, Lorraine May

2017-01-01

Virtual worlds are innovative teaching and learning methods that can provide immersive and engaging learning experiences (Lu, 2010). Though they have potential benefits, students sometimes experience a steep learning curve and discomfort with the technology (Warburton, 2009). This study explored how students in two American Studies classes using…

Perspectives in Theory: Anthology of Theorists affecting the Educational World

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bicking, Misty M., Ed.; Collins, Brian, Ed.; Fernett, Laura, Ed.; Taylor, Barbara, Ed.; Sutton, Kathleen, Ed.

2008-01-01

A compilation of research papers on theorists that affect the educational world are collected in this anthology. Twenty-one students, through the course of their education class, Social and Psychological Conditions of Learning--EDUC 320, researched and applied their knowledge in the elementary and secondary school environments. The contributing…

Perspectives on the Use of "Anonymous" Discussion Forums in Undergraduate Education Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bowen, G. Michael; Farmer, Robert; Arsenault, Nicole

2012-01-01

This paper theorizes issues involved with conflicts between participation in on-line settings and real-world social commitments, such as has recently happened in schools with students using public discussion forums for classes. We problematize how real-world social commitments negatively affect participation in online learning environments…

More than Just Test Scores

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levin, Henry M.

2012-01-01

Around the world we hear considerable talk about creating world-class schools. Usually the term refers to schools whose students get very high scores on the international comparisons of student achievement such as PISA or TIMSS. The practice of restricting the meaning of exemplary schools to the narrow criterion of achievement scores is usually…

Latent typologies of posttraumatic stress disorder in World Trade Center responders.

PubMed

Horn, Sarah R; Pietrzak, Robert H; Schechter, Clyde; Bromet, Evelyn J; Katz, Craig L; Reissman, Dori B; Kotov, Roman; Crane, Michael; Harrison, Denise J; Herbert, Robin; Luft, Benjamin J; Moline, Jacqueline M; Stellman, Jeanne M; Udasin, Iris G; Landrigan, Philip J; Zvolensky, Michael J; Southwick, Steven M; Feder, Adriana

2016-12-01

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating and often chronic psychiatric disorder. Following the 9/11/2001 World Trade Center (WTC) attacks, thousands of individuals were involved in rescue, recovery and clean-up efforts. While a growing body of literature has documented the prevalence and correlates of PTSD in WTC responders, no study has evaluated predominant typologies of PTSD in this population. Participants were 4352 WTC responders with probable WTC-related DSM-IV PTSD. Latent class analyses were conducted to identify predominant typologies of PTSD symptoms and associated correlates. A 3-class solution provided the optimal representation of latent PTSD symptom typologies. The first class, labeled "High-Symptom (n = 1,973, 45.3%)," was characterized by high probabilities of all PTSD symptoms. The second class, "Dysphoric (n = 1,371, 31.5%)," exhibited relatively high probabilities of emotional numbing and dysphoric arousal (e.g., sleep disturbance). The third class, "Threat (n = 1,008, 23.2%)," was characterized by high probabilities of re-experiencing, avoidance and anxious arousal (e.g., hypervigilance). Compared to the Threat class, the Dysphoric class reported a greater number of life stressors after 9/11/2001 (OR = 1.06). The High-Symptom class was more likely than the Threat class to have a positive psychiatric history before 9/11/2001 (OR = 1.7) and reported a greater number of life stressors after 9/11/2001 (OR = 1.1). The High-Symptom class was more likely than the Dysphoric class, which was more likely than the Threat class, to screen positive for depression (83% > 74% > 53%, respectively), and to report greater functional impairment (High-Symptom > Dysphoric [Cohen d = 0.19], Dysphoric > Threat [Cohen d = 0.24]). These results may help inform assessment, risk stratification, and treatment approaches for PTSD in WTC and disaster responders. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Improving the Effectiveness and Efficiency of Teaching Large Classes: Development and Evaluation of a Novel e-Resource in Cancer Biology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hejmadi, Momna V.

2007-01-01

This paper describes the development and evaluation of a blended learning resource in the biosciences, created by combining online learning with formal face-face lectures and supported by formative assessments. In order to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of teaching large classes with mixed student cohorts, teaching was delivered through…

Energy-Performance-Based Design-Build Process: Strategies for Procuring High-Performance Buildings on Typical Construction Budgets: Preprint

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Scheib, J.; Pless, S.; Torcellini, P.

NREL experienced a significant increase in employees and facilities on our 327-acre main campus in Golden, Colorado over the past five years. To support this growth, researchers developed and demonstrated a new building acquisition method that successfully integrates energy efficiency requirements into the design-build requests for proposals and contracts. We piloted this energy performance based design-build process with our first new construction project in 2008. We have since replicated and evolved the process for large office buildings, a smart grid research laboratory, a supercomputer, a parking structure, and a cafeteria. Each project incorporated aggressive efficiency strategies using contractual energy usemore » requirements in the design-build contracts, all on typical construction budgets. We have found that when energy efficiency is a core project requirement as defined at the beginning of a project, innovative design-build teams can integrate the most cost effective and high performance efficiency strategies on typical construction budgets. When the design-build contract includes measurable energy requirements and is set up to incentivize design-build teams to focus on achieving high performance in actual operations, owners can now expect their facilities to perform. As NREL completed the new construction in 2013, we have documented our best practices in training materials and a how-to guide so that other owners and owner's representatives can replicate our successes and learn from our experiences in attaining market viable, world-class energy performance in the built environment.« less

Gaming via Computer Simulation Techniques for Junior College Economics Education. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thompson, Fred A.

A study designed to answer the need for more attractive and effective economics education involved the teaching of one junior college economics class by the conventional (lecture) method and an experimental class by computer simulation techniques. Econometric models approximating the "real world" were computer programed to enable the experimental…

Science/Technology/Society: Model Lessons for Secondary Science Classes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pearson, Janice V., Ed.

This volume contains 35 lessons designed to be used in secondary science classes to introduce the science/technology/society (STS) themes and issues. While the first 11 lessons focus on general STS themes, the other 24 lessons cover specific STS issues that fall under such categories as population growth, water resources, world hunger, food…

Social Class and Elite University Education: A Bourdieusian Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Nathan Douglas

2010-01-01

The United States experienced a tremendous expansion of higher education after the Second World War. However, this expansion has not led to a substantial reduction to class inequalities at elite universities, where the admissions process is growing even more selective. In his classic studies of French education and society, Pierre Bourdieu…

Navy Medicine - World Class Care... Anytime, Anywhere

Science.gov Websites

Class Care... Anytime, Anywhere Home Disclaimer Navy Medicine WebSite About Leadership Readiness Health planner's perspective on Global Health Engagement March 23, 2018 My Pacific tour: A planner's perspective on Global Health Engagement By Lt. Derek J. Chamberlain, MSC Throughout my career, I have been told, "

An Active, Reflective Learning Cycle for E-Commerce Classes: Learning about E-Commerce by Doing and Teaching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abrahams, Alan S.; Singh, Tirna

2010-01-01

Active, experiential learning is an important component in information systems education, ensuring that students gain an appreciation for both practical and theoretical information systems concepts. Typically, students in active, experiential classes engage in real world projects for commercial companies or not-for-profit organizations. In the…

Fathering to Ensure Child's Success: What Urban Indian Fathers Do?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sriram, Rajalakshmi; Sandhu, Gurprit Kaur

2013-01-01

In a globalizing urban India, middle-class parents are extremely anxious about their child's success and future in a competitive world. In this context, the present article attempts to capture middle-class educated Indian fathers' thoughts, feelings, and contributions in ensuring children's success, through primary research conducted in the city…

Science Magic: Making a Difference

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tidel, L. L.

2004-01-01

In this narrative article, the author fondly takes a look back at her own personal experiences with a memorable science teacher who showed his students that science was a living, breathing world. Whether he assigned his class to collect water samples from local ponds (to look at microscopic organisms), bring in rocks to class for identification,…

77 FR 5429 - Proposed Modification of the Atlanta Class B Airspace Area; GA

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-03

.... Aircraft are then normally assigned 5,000 feet, or higher, upon initial contact with departure control. The... foot floor would produce a safer airspace environment for aircraft arriving at the world's busiest... containment of aircraft within Class B airspace, reduce controller workload and enhance safety in the Atlanta...

Modeling Physical Systems Using Vensim PLE Systems Dynamics Software

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Widmark, Stephen

2012-01-01

Many physical systems are described by time-dependent differential equations or systems of such equations. This makes it difficult for students in an introductory physics class to solve many real-world problems since these students typically have little or no experience with this kind of mathematics. In my high school physics classes, I address…

Developing and Running a WWW Biology Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Collins, Michael

1997-01-01

Describes the development of a World Wide Web version of a second-year biology class. Discusses features of the course and its organization as well as interaction with the instructor and other class members through e-mail and a Web conference. Course satisfaction was high with a main positive aspect being students' ability to schedule learning…

Speaking, Writing, and Performance: An Integrated Approach to the Word.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stracke, J. Richard; Snow, Sara

To provide students with a rhetorical stance and motivation, a college freshman composition class adopted the ideas of the "radical" literacy educator, Paulo Freire, who believes that literacy should allow students and teachers to become truly conscious of the world. Class projects were initiated in which the students had as much…

Making Education World-Class: "ThinkGlobalOhio"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gottlieb, Esther E.

2012-01-01

For over two decades the State of Ohio has been reforming its education system. This article focuses on the 2006 reform initiatives: a newly elected governor pledged to review and revise its 2002 kindergarten to twelfth grad (K-12) academic content standards and benchmark them to international "best-in-class" measures, given Ohio's need…

Middle School Choreography Class: Two Parallel but Different Worlds

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Minton, Sandra

2007-01-01

This research explored how middle school students construct meaning from their dance-making experiences in comparison to the meaning attached to these experiences by an outside observer, the researcher. An interpretive methodology was used to study two nine-week-long dance classes taught at a private K-12 school. Eleven students enrolled in the…

Class, Ethnicity and Gender in Maxine Hong Kingston's "China Men."

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lisella, Julia

1997-01-01

To look at Maxine Hong Kingston's novel "China Men" for its mythic aspects is to overlook the fact that it is a novel about work and class. It condemns a patriarchal capitalist world that exploits both male and female workers and dissects the gender and race issues uncovered by such exploitation. (SLD)

Variability and predictability of finals times of elite rowers.

PubMed

Smith, Tiaki Brett; Hopkins, Will G

2011-11-01

Little is known about the competitive performance characteristics of elite rowers. We report here analyses of performance times for finalists in world-class regattas from 1999 to 2009. The data were official race times for the 10 men's and 7 women's single and crewed boat classes, each with ∼ 200-300 different boats competing in 1-33 of the 46 regattas at 18 venues. A linear mixed model of race times for each boat class provided estimates of variability as coefficients of variation after adjustment for means of calendar year, level of competition (Olympics, world championship, World Cup), venue, and level of final (A, B, C, …). Mean performance was substantially slower between consecutive levels of competition (1.5%, 2.7%) and consecutive levels of finals (∼ 1%-2%). Differences in the effects of venue and of environmental conditions, estimated as variability in mean race time between venues and finals, were extremely large (∼ 3.0%). Within-boat race-to-race variability for A finalists was 1.1% for single sculls and 0.9% for crewed boats, with little difference between men and women and only a small increase in lower-level finalists. Predictability of performance, expressed as intraclass correlation coefficients, showed considerable differences between boat classes, but the mean was high (∼ 0.63), with little difference between crewed and single boats, between men and women, and between within and between years. The race-to-race variability of boat times of ∼ 1.0% is similar to that in comparable endurance sports performed against water or air resistance. Estimates of the smallest important performance enhancement (∼ 0.3%) and the effects of level of competition, level of final, venue, environment, and boat class will help inform investigations of factors affecting elite competitive rowing performance.

Using Positive Visual Stimuli to Lighten the Online Learning Experience through in Class Questioning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lai, Chia-Hung; Liu, Ming-Chi; Liu, Chia-Ju; Huang, Yueh-Min

2016-01-01

Using in-class questions is an efficient instructional strategy to keep abreast of the state of student learning in a class. Some studies have found that discussing in-class questions in synchronous learning is helpful. These studies demonstrated that synchronous questions not only provide students with timely feedback, but also allow teachers to…

Disrupted Small-World Networks in Schizophrenia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Yong; Liang, Meng; Zhou, Yuan; He, Yong; Hao, Yihui; Song, Ming; Yu, Chunshui; Liu, Haihong; Liu, Zhening; Jiang, Tianzi

2008-01-01

The human brain has been described as a large, sparse, complex network characterized by efficient small-world properties, which assure that the brain generates and integrates information with high efficiency. Many previous neuroimaging studies have provided consistent evidence of "dysfunctional connectivity" among the brain regions in…

Assessing Egyptian Public Support for Security Crackdowns in the Sinai

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-02-01

Leadership and Development contributes to the education of world class senior leaders, develops expert knowledge, and provides solutions to...case when the Ottoman army invaded it in the early stages of World War I, and when the Israelis invaded it in 1956 and 1967). Former Egyptian...much of the Arab world for concluding a so-called “separate peace” with Israel, Sadat and most Egyptian citizens held the view that Egypt had made

Soviet Naval Military and Air Power in the Third World,

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-03-31

enhanced by the impressive Kirov class nucler - powered , guided missile cruiser. This ship is the largest naval vessel built byanynation since World ’W...RD-Rli5e 290 SOVIET NAVAL MILITARY AND AIR POWER IN THE THIRD WORLD i/I (U) KENT STATE UNIV OH LYMAN L LEMNITZER CENTER FOR NATO STUDIES L J ANDOLINO...ii . MICROCOPY RESOLUTION TEST CHART NAh{ThAL BUPIAU OF STANDAR[)S 4 -.1 21 -.!r z r o SOVIET NAVAL MILITARY AND AIR 0’) POWER IN THE THIRD WORLD o by

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Erfle, Stephen; Pound, John; Kalt, Joseph

An analysis of the response of American markets to supply crises in world oil markets is presented. It addresses four main issues: the efficiency of the operation of American oil markets during oil supply crises; the problems of both economic efficiency and social equity which arise during the American adaptation process; the propriety of the Federal government's past policy responses to these problems; and the relationship between perceptions of the problems caused by world oil crises and the real economic natures of these problems. Specifically, Chapter 1 presents a theoretical discussion of the effects of a world supply disruption onmore » the price level and supply availability of the world market oil to any consuming country including the US Chapter 2 provides a theoretical and empirical analysis of the efficiency of the adaptations of US oil product markets to higher world oil prices. Chapter 3 examines the responses of various groups of US oil firms to the alterations observed in world markets, while Chapter 4 presents a theoretical explanation for the price-lagging behavior exhibited by firms in the US oil industry. Chapter 5 addresses the nature of both real and imagined oil market problems in the US during periods of world oil market transition. (MCW)« less

The Holocaust.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brach, Barbara F.

The purpose of this teacher-developed humanities unit is to help secondary students understand the period leading up to and including the holocaust, from the end of World War I to the end of World War II. Through the use of readings, films, simulations, and class discussion, students learn how the holocaust occurred and relate it to other…

World Refugee Crisis: Winning the Game. Facts for Action #6.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oxfam America, Boston, MA.

Definitions, statistics, and problems of world refugees are presented in this document for high school global education classes. Although various agencies have determined different definitions of the term, the authors consider as refugees all those forced to flee their native land in order to survive. For most refugees the attraction of a higher…

Organizational Socialization and Job Satisfaction of Faculty at Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bilyalov, Darkhan

2018-01-01

Like other institutions with world-class aspirations, Nazarbayev University, an emerging research university in Kazakhstan, relies heavily on international faculty. As this rapidly growing institution builds its legitimacy, it has to attract, socialize, and retain the best academic talent from around the world. Using a survey design, this study…

World Class: USBBY's Outstanding International Books for Young People

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Angus, Carolyn

2009-01-01

Some of the world's best children's book artists got together to help Amnesty International celebrate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights' 60th anniversary in "We Are All Born Free," one of the 42 titles recommended by the fourth annual United States Board on Books for Young People's (USBBY) Outstanding International Books…

Broadening the Horizons: Organizational Communication in the Real World.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Swanson, Georgia

Working in the microcosm of an individual class, organizational communication instructors can broaden the student's horizon by starting with what are local types of diversity and then expanding the classroom understanding to include the larger world where that student is going to live and work. Speech communication teachers/scholars have seen…

Women Creating a New World. Facts for Action #3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tuttle, Leslie; Wunder, Haleh

An assessment of the role of women in third world countries and strategies to improve their status are provided for high school global education classes. The document emphasizes that women in rural areas of developing nations are subject to triple oppression: as citizens of underdeveloped countries; as peasants living in the most impoverished and…

Real-World Literacy Activity in Pre-School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, Jim; Purcell-Gates, Victoria; Lenters, Kimberly; McTavish, Marianne

2012-01-01

In this article, we share real-world literacy activities that we designed and implemented in two early literacy classes for preschoolers from two inner-city neighbourhoods that were part of an intergenerational family literacy program, Literacy for Life (LFL). The program was informed by research that shows that young children in high literate…

International Advisory Councils and Internationalization of Governance: A Qualitative Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mihut, Georgiana; Altbach, Philip G.; Salmi, Jamil

2016-01-01

This paper discusses the emergence of international advisory councils (IACs) at universities around the world and introduces the concept of internationalization of governance. Global trends in the field of higher education, such as the quest to create world-class universities and advance in global rankings, the rise of new public management, and…

World Class Learners: Educating Creative and Entrepreneurial Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhao, Yong

2012-01-01

In the new global economy, the jobs that exist now might not exist by the time today's students enter the workplace. To succeed in this ever-changing world, students need to be able to think like entrepreneurs: resourceful, flexible, creative, and global. Researcher and Professor Yong Zhao unlocks the secrets to cultivating independent thinkers…

Nature and Education: Learning from the World around Us.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Donckers, Cathy

Our elementary secondary schools have hidden curricula which teach passivity, resistance to change, inflexibility, and submissive behavior in a world which is moving toward faster changes and heightened personal individuality. Class control with the teacher feeding information to the students like data to a computer can no longer be accepted as…

International Students at Chinese Joint Venture Universities: Factors Influencing Decisions to Enrol

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Onsman, Andrys

2013-01-01

The People's Republic of China has determined to assume a respected place amongst the world's foremost higher education providers. Its short term strategy is multi-pronged: attracting world-class scholars; attracting international students and encouraging Chinese universities to run branches overseas. As well, a small number of select foreign…

Toward a Pedagogy of Transformative Teacher Education: World Educational Links

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reed, Judith; Black, Deborah J.

2006-01-01

By describing an innovative model for teacher education, these authors hope to contribute to an interrogation of teacher education, class, and culture within the current political and economic system. Inaugurated at Keene State College in New Hampshire in May 2002, World Educational Links (WEL) prepares future educators for anti-oppressive…

Socrates in the Boardroom: Why Research Universities Should Be Led by Top Scholars

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goodall, Amanda H.

2009-01-01

"Socrates in the Boardroom" argues that world-class scholars, not administrators, make the best leaders of research universities. Amanda Goodall cuts through the rhetoric and misinformation swirling around this contentious issue--such as the assertion that academics simply don't have the managerial expertise needed to head the world's leading…

Why In the World: A Teacher's Handbook.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pellet, Elizabeth A.; And Others

This handbook will help secondary teachers in all subject areas use the "Why in the World" television series to teach current events. The handbook presents the origin of and rationale for the series, describes the programs, suggests general class activities that teachers can use with all the programs in the series, discusses additional resources…

Big Policies and a Small World: An Analysis of Policy Problems and Solutions in Physical Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Penney, Dawn

2017-01-01

This paper uses Ball's [1998. Big policies/small world: An introduction to international perspectives in education policy. "Comparative Education," 34(2), 119-130] policy analysis and Bernstein's [1990. "The structuring of pedagogic discourse. Volume IV class, codes and control". London: Routledge; 2000, "Pedagogy,…

The 100 People Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McLeod, Keri

2007-01-01

This article describes the 100 People Project and how the author integrates the project in her class. The 100 People Project is a nonprofit organization based in New York City. The organization poses the question: If there were only 100 people in the world, what would the world look like? Through the project, students were taught about ethics in…

Virtual-Recitation: A World Wide Web Based Approach to Active Learning in Clinical Pharmacokinetics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woodward, Donald K.

1998-01-01

Describes implementation, evaluation of World Wide Web-based component in a Rutgers University (New Jersey) advanced clinical pharmacokinetics course. Scheduling accommodated nontraditional students; each week Web pages providing review and supplementary material and an online quiz were posted after class. Comparison with the previous year's…

8 CFR 392.2 - Eligibility for posthumous citizenship.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... naval forces of the United States during World War I, World War II, the Korean Hostilities, the Vietnam... SPECIAL CLASSES OF PERSONS WHO MAY BE NATURALIZED: PERSONS WHO DIE WHILE SERVING ON ACTIVE DUTY WITH THE... citizenship. (a) General. Any alien or noncitizen national of the United States is eligible for posthumous...

8 CFR 392.2 - Eligibility for posthumous citizenship.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... naval forces of the United States during World War I, World War II, the Korean Hostilities, the Vietnam... SPECIAL CLASSES OF PERSONS WHO MAY BE NATURALIZED: PERSONS WHO DIE WHILE SERVING ON ACTIVE DUTY WITH THE... citizenship. (a) General. Any alien or noncitizen national of the United States is eligible for posthumous...

Rankings and the Reshaping of Higher Education: The Battle for World-Class Excellence

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hazelkorn, Ellen

2011-01-01

University rankings have gained popularity around the world, and are now a significant factor shaping reputation. This book is the first comprehensive study of rankings from a global perspective, making an important contribution to our understanding of the rankings phenomenon. (Contains 17 figures, 17 tables and 4 illustrations.)

Links to Learning: Recommended Websites for Your World History Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wangerin, Laura

2012-01-01

Technology offers three major benefits to world history teachers: an online supply of supplemental resources; access to creative tools; and the opportunity for students to collaborate. These three positive contributions vary in the degree of involvement they require of students. Supplemental resources offer or display information, but often lack a…

Research Universities and the Future of America

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Duderstadt, James J.

2012-01-01

The crucial importance of the research university as a key asset in achieving economic prosperity and security is widely understood, as evidenced by the efforts that nations around the globe are making to create and sustain institutions of world-class quality. Yet, while America's research universities remain the strongest in the world, they are…

Collection Development: Sporty South Africa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lamont, Loraine; Pulver, A. Issac

2010-01-01

This summer, sports-crazy South Africa, recently named by the "New York Times" as one of the "31 Places To Go in 2010," will become the first African nation to host the FIFA World Cup. Soccer fans making the trip will be rewarded with world-class facilities, modern infrastructure, and a nation of startling contrasts and…

Learning Ethics through Virtual Fieldtrips: Teaching Ethical Theories through Virtual Experiences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Houser, Rick; Thoma, Steve; Coppock, Amanda; Mazer, Matthew; Midkiff, Lewis; Younanian, Marisa; Young, Sarah

2011-01-01

Teaching ethical reasoning is considered an important component of the undergraduate learning experience. A recent approach to teaching using experiential learning is through virtual worlds such as Second Life. We discuss how ethics may be taught using experiential learning in the virtual world of Second Life. Participants in the class in this…

World History.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heise, Simine; And Others

A detailed outline summarizes a ninth-grade course in world history adaptable to average and honors classes. Material is divided into five parts. A list of 33 course goals precedes a list of 150 objectives, grouped under appropriate goal headings. The bulk of the document consists of a content outline which cites major and minor topics covered in…

Accommodation in the Formal World of Mathematical Thinking

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stewart, Sepideh; Schmidt, Ralf

2017-01-01

In this study, we examined a mathematician and one of his students' teaching journals and thought processes concurrently as the class was moving towards the proof of the Fundamental Theorem of Galois Theory. We employed Tall's framework of three worlds of mathematical thinking as well as Piaget's notion of accommodation to theoretically study the…

India's Trade in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kumar, Shailendra

2015-01-01

India has had an extremely adverse balance of trade in education. Though only a minor education exporter through Mode 2, India is the world's second largest student-sending country. Nevertheless, given English as the medium of instruction especially in apex institutions, low tuition and cost of living, quite a few world-class institutions, and a…

Reflections on Science Fiction in Light of Today's Global Concerns.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Aiex, Patrick K.

Science fiction is a literary genre that can be used in humanities courses to discuss ideas, attitudes, ethics, morality, and the effects of science and technology on the world's population. One of the best examples of a "classic" science fiction novel which can provoke class discussion is Aldous Huxley's "Brave New World,"…

Hunger and Population. Facts for Action #7.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phillips, James

The relationship between world hunger and world population is explored in this document for high school global education classes. Reasons for the high birth rates in developing nations are suggested, e.g., a poor family has many children because children are an inexpensive work force, provide extra income, and care for parents in old age. The…

Global Digital Revolution and Africa: Transforming Nigerian Universities to World Class Institutions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Isah, Emmanuel Aileonokhuoya; Ayeni, A. O.

2010-01-01

This study examined the global digital revolution and the transformation of Nigerian universities. The study overviewed university developments world wide in line with what obtains in Nigeria. The study highlighted the several challenges that face Nigerian universities inclusive of poor funding, poor personnel and the poor exposure to global…

International Trade: Tennessee's Window on the World.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roach, Miriam; And Others

The activities and discussion questions in this unit can be used in secondary social studies classes to teach students about world trade and its role in their personal lives. Although designed for Tennessee classrooms, the unit can be easily adapted for use elsewhere. Many of the activities are self-contained. However, some require the use of…

Active Learning Strategies and Assessment in World Geography Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Klein, Phil

2003-01-01

Active learning strategies include a variety of methods, such as inquiry and discovery, in which students are actively engaged in the learning process. This article describes several strategies that can be used in secondary-or college-level world geography courses. The goal of these activities is to foster development of a spatial perspective in…

World's Youth Connect through Global Nomads Group: An Interview with GNG's David Macquart

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morrison, James L.; Macquart, David

2006-01-01

Editor-in-chief James L. Morrison talks with David Macquart, co-founder of the Global Nomads Group (GNG), a group dedicated to improving children's cultural understanding by bringing the world into the classroom using videoconferencing technology. GNG moderates video conferences between K-12 classes in different countries, organizes virtual…

Matching Livestock Production Systems and Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Becchetti, T.; Stackhouse, J.; Snell, L.; Lile, D.; George, H.; Harper, J. M.; Larson, S.; Mashiri, F.; Doran, M.; Barry, S.

2015-12-01

Livestock production systems vary greatly over the world. Producers try to match the resources they have with the demands of production, this can vary by species, class of animal, number of animals, and production goals, etc. Using California's diversity in production systems as an example, we explored how livestock producers best utilize the forage and feed found in different ecosystems and available in different parts of the state. Livestock grazing, the predominant land use in California and in much of the world, makes efficient use of the natural vegetation produced without additional water (irrigation), minimal inputs such as fertilizer while often supporting a variety of conservation objectives including vegetation management, fire fuels management, and habitat and open space conservation. The numerous by-products produced by other sectors of California's agriculture as well as food industries, such as brewer's grain, cottonseeds, and almond hulls are utilized as a feed source for livestock. These by-products are not only an important feed source especially in drought years but are diverted from our waste stream when utilized by livestock. The concept of matching available resources to livestock needs throughout the world is often overlooked and production systems are often over simplified in projects conducting a life cycle analysis or developing carbon foot prints for livestock production systems. This paper provides details on the various production systems found in California, the ecosystem they have adapted to, and how the producers use science and ecological knowledge to match the biological requirements of the livestock and conservation objectives to feed and forage resources.

Generalizable Class Solutions for Treatment Planning of Spinal Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Weksberg, David C.; Palmer, Matthew B.; Vu, Khoi N.

2012-11-01

Purpose: Spinal stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) continues to emerge as an effective therapeutic approach to spinal metastases; however, treatment planning and delivery remain resource intensive at many centers, which may hamper efficient implementation in clinical practice. We sought to develop a generalizable class solution approach for spinal SBRT treatment planning that would allow confidence that a given plan provides optimal target coverage, reduce integral dose, and maximize planning efficiency. Methods and Materials: We examined 91 patients treated with spinal SBRT at our institution. Treatment plans were categorized by lesion location, clinical target volume (CTV) configuration, and dose fractionation scheme,more » and then analyzed to determine the technically achievable dose gradient. A radial cord expansion was subtracted from the CTV to yield a planning CTV (pCTV) construct for plan evaluation. We reviewed the treatment plans with respect to target coverage, dose gradient, integral dose, conformality, and maximum cord dose to select the best plans and develop a set of class solutions. Results: The class solution technique generated plans that maintained target coverage and improved conformality (1.2-fold increase in the 95% van't Riet Conformation Number describing the conformality of a reference dose to the target) while reducing normal tissue integral dose (1.3-fold decrease in the volume receiving 4 Gy (V{sub 4Gy}) and machine output (19% monitor unit (MU) reduction). In trials of planning efficiency, the class solution technique reduced treatment planning time by 30% to 60% and MUs required by {approx}20%: an effect independent of prior planning experience. Conclusions: We have developed a set of class solutions for spinal SBRT that incorporate a pCTV metric for plan evaluation while yielding dosimetrically superior treatment plans with increased planning efficiency. Our technique thus allows for efficient, reproducible, and high-quality spinal SBRT treatment planning.« less

A high-efficiency low-voltage class-E PA for IoT applications in sub-1 GHz frequency range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Chenyi; Lu, Zhenghao; Gu, Jiangmin; Yu, Xiaopeng

2017-10-01

We present and propose a complete and iterative integrated-circuit and electro-magnetic (EM) co-design methodology and procedure for a low-voltage sub-1 GHz class-E PA. The presented class-E PA consists of the on-chip power transistor, the on-chip gate driving circuits, the off-chip tunable LC load network and the off-chip LC ladder low pass filter. The design methodology includes an explicit design equation based circuit components values' analysis and numerical derivation, output power targeted transistor size and low pass filter design, and power efficiency oriented design optimization. The proposed design procedure includes the power efficiency oriented LC network tuning, the detailed circuit/EM co-simulation plan on integrated circuit level, package level and PCB level to ensure an accurate simulation to measurement match and first pass design success. The proposed PA is targeted to achieve more than 15 dBm output power delivery and 40% power efficiency at 433 MHz frequency band with 1.5 V low voltage supply. The LC load network is designed to be off-chip for the purpose of easy tuning and optimization. The same circuit can be extended to all sub-1 GHz applications with the same tuning and optimization on the load network at different frequencies. The amplifier is implemented in 0.13 μm CMOS technology with a core area occupation of 400 μm by 300 μm. Measurement results showed that it provided power delivery of 16.42 dBm at antenna with efficiency of 40.6%. A harmonics suppression of 44 dBc is achieved, making it suitable for massive deployment of IoT devices. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 61574125) and the Industry Innovation Project of Suzhou City of China (No. SYG201641).

Social class rank, essentialism, and punitive judgment.

PubMed

Kraus, Michael W; Keltner, Dacher

2013-08-01

Recent evidence suggests that perceptions of social class rank influence a variety of social cognitive tendencies, from patterns of causal attribution to moral judgment. In the present studies we tested the hypotheses that upper-class rank individuals would be more likely to endorse essentialist lay theories of social class categories (i.e., that social class is founded in genetically based, biological differences) than would lower-class rank individuals and that these beliefs would decrease support for restorative justice--which seeks to rehabilitate offenders, rather than punish unlawful action. Across studies, higher social class rank was associated with increased essentialism of social class categories (Studies 1, 2, and 4) and decreased support for restorative justice (Study 4). Moreover, manipulated essentialist beliefs decreased preferences for restorative justice (Study 3), and the association between social class rank and class-based essentialist theories was explained by the tendency to endorse beliefs in a just world (Study 2). Implications for how class-based essentialist beliefs potentially constrain social opportunity and mobility are discussed.

Towards human behavior recognition based on spatio temporal features and support vector machines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghabri, Sawsen; Ouarda, Wael; Alimi, Adel M.

2017-03-01

Security and surveillance are vital issues in today's world. The recent acts of terrorism have highlighted the urgent need for efficient surveillance. There is indeed a need for an automated system for video surveillance which can detect identity and activity of person. In this article, we propose a new paradigm to recognize an aggressive human behavior such as boxing action. Our proposed system for human activity detection includes the use of a fusion between Spatio Temporal Interest Point (STIP) and Histogram of Oriented Gradient (HoG) features. The novel feature called Spatio Temporal Histogram Oriented Gradient (STHOG). To evaluate the robustness of our proposed paradigm with a local application of HoG technique on STIP points, we made experiments on KTH human action dataset based on Multi Class Support Vector Machines classification. The proposed scheme outperforms basic descriptors like HoG and STIP to achieve 82.26% us an accuracy value of classification rate.

Transport Equations for CAD Modeling of Al(x)Ga(1-x)N/GaN HEMTs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Freeman, Jon C.

2003-01-01

BEMTs formed from Al(x)Ga(1-x)N/GaN heterostructures are being investigated for high RF power and efficiency around the world by many groups, both academic and industrial. In these devices, the 2DEG formation is dominated by both spontaneous and piezoelectric polarization fields, with each component having nearly the same order of magnitude. The piezoelectric portion is induced by the mechanical strain in the structure, and to analyze these devices, one must incorporate the stress/strain relationships, along with the standard semiconductor transport equations. These equations for Wurtzite GaN are not easily found in the open literature, hence this paper summarizes them, along with the constitutive equations for piezoelectric materials. The equations are cast into the format for the Wurtzite crystal class, which is the most common way GaN is grown epitaxially.

Cardiac data mining (CDM); organization and predictive analytics on biomedical (cardiac) data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bilal, M. Musa; Hussain, Masood; Basharat, Iqra; Fatima, Mamuna

2013-10-01

Data mining and data analytics has been of immense importance to many different fields as we witness the evolution of data sciences over recent years. Biostatistics and Medical Informatics has proved to be the foundation of many modern biological theories and analysis techniques. These are the fields which applies data mining practices along with statistical models to discover hidden trends from data that comprises of biological experiments or procedures on different entities. The objective of this research study is to develop a system for the efficient extraction, transformation and loading of such data from cardiologic procedure reports given by Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology. It also aims to devise a model for the predictive analysis and classification of this data to some important classes as required by cardiologists all around the world. This includes predicting patient impressions and other important features.

DESIGN STUDY OF 20 T, 15 CM BORE HYBRID MAGNET WITH RADIATION RESISTANT INSERT FOR PION CAPTURE.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

WEGGEL,R.J.; PEARSON,C.E.; KING,B.J.

2001-06-18

To capture pions the Neutrino Factory and Muon Collider Collaboration needs a field of {approx}20 T throughout a cylinder 15 cm in diameter and 60 cm long, falling over the next 18 m to 1.25 T, while the bore increases fourfold inversely as the square root of the field. We propose a hybrid system. The superconducting magnet is of world-class parameters, storing 600 MJ and including a coil to generate 14 T in a bore of {approx}1.3 m. Intercoil forces reach 100 MN. For high radiation resistance, the insert coil is of mineral-insulated hollow conductor, as developed for the Japanmore » Hadron Facility; it would require 12 MW to generate 6 T. Needed is research to develop a more efficient hollow conductor or radiation-resistant insulator for a Bitter coil.« less

Development of the metrology and imaging of cellulose nanocrystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Postek, Michael T.; Vladár, András; Dagata, John; Farkas, Natalia; Ming, Bin; Wagner, Ryan; Raman, Arvind; Moon, Robert J.; Sabo, Ronald; Wegner, Theodore H.; Beecher, James

2011-02-01

The development of metrology for nanoparticles is a significant challenge. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are one group of nanoparticles that have high potential economic value but present substantial challenges to the development of the measurement science. Even the largest trees owe their strength to this newly appreciated class of nanomaterials. Cellulose is the world's most abundant natural, renewable, biodegradable polymer. Cellulose occurs as whisker-like microfibrils that are biosynthesized and deposited in plant material in a continuous fashion. The nanocrystals are isolated by hydrolyzing away the amorphous segments leaving the acid resistant crystalline fragments. Therefore, the basic raw material for new nanomaterial products already abounds in nature and is available to be utilized in an array of future materials. However, commercialization requires the development of efficient manufacturing processes and nanometrology to monitor quality. This paper discusses some of the instrumentation, metrology and standards issues associated with the ramping up for production and use of CNCs.

Complex metal borohydrides: multifunctional materials for energy storage and conversion.

PubMed

Mohtadi, Rana; Remhof, Arndt; Jena, Puru

2016-09-07

With the limited supply of fossil fuels and their adverse effect on the climate and the environment, it has become a global priority to seek alternate sources of energy that are clean, abundant, and sustainable. While sources such as solar, wind, and hydrogen can meet the world's energy demand, considerable challenges remain to find materials that can store and/or convert energy efficiently. This topical review focuses on one such class of materials, namely, multi-functional complex metal borohydrides that not only have the ability to store sufficient amount of hydrogen to meet the needs of the transportation industry, but also can be used for a new generation of metal ion batteries and solar cells. We discuss the material challenges in all these areas and review the progress that has been made to address them, the issues that still need to be resolved and the outlook for the future.

Iron control on global productivity: an efficient inverse model of the ocean's coupled phosphate and iron cycles.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pasquier, B.; Holzer, M.; Frants, M.

2016-02-01

We construct a data-constrained mechanistic inverse model of the ocean's coupled phosphorus and iron cycles. The nutrient cycling is embedded in a data-assimilated steady global circulation. Biological nutrient uptake is parameterized in terms of nutrient, light, and temperature limitations on growth for two classes of phytoplankton that are not transported explicitly. A matrix formulation of the discretized nutrient tracer equations allows for efficient numerical solutions, which facilitates the objective optimization of the key biogeochemical parameters. The optimization minimizes the misfit between the modelled and observed nutrient fields of the current climate. We systematically assess the nonlinear response of the biological pump to changes in the aeolian iron supply for a variety of scenarios. Specifically, Green-function techniques are employed to quantify in detail the pathways and timescales with which those perturbations are propagated throughout the world oceans, determining the global teleconnections that mediate the response of the global ocean ecosystem. We confirm previous findings from idealized studies that increased iron fertilization decreases biological production in the subtropical gyres and we quantify the counterintuitive and asymmetric response of global productivity to increases and decreases in the aeolian iron supply.

Achieving World Class: An Independent Review of the Design Plans for the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and the Fort Belvoir Community Hospital

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-05-01

class medical facility. Based on a review of relevant reports and other literature, the HSAS’s collective experience and judgment, and extensive...analyses of the demand for PACU services and of the experience and skills of PACU staff relative to the skills needed to properly care for other...class medical facility. Based on a review of relevant reports and other literature, the Subcommittee’s collective experience and judgment, and

Synergistic Use of WorldView-2 Imagery and Airborne LiDAR Data for Urban Land Cover Classification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, M. F.; Sun, Z. C.; Yang, B.; Yu, S. S.

2017-02-01

There are lots of challenges for deriving urban land cover types for high resolution optical imagery because of spectral similarity of different objects, mixed pixels, shadows of buildings and large tree crowns. In order to reduce these uncertainties, recently, it’s a trend of the classification of urban land cover from multi-source sensors in the field of urban remote sensing. In this study, a hierarchical support vector machine (SVM) classification method was applied to the urban land cover mapping, using the WorldView-2 imagery and airborne Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data. The results showed that: (1) The overall accuracy (OA) and overall kappa (OK) were 72.92% and 0.66 for WorldView-2 imagery alone; while the OA and OK were improved up to 89.44% and 0.87 for the synergistic use of the two types of data source. (2) Buildings and road/parking lots extracted from fused data were more precision and well-shaped. The two classes from fused data were optimally classified with higher producer’s accuracy and user’s accuracy than WorldView-2 imagery alone. The trees were also easily separated from the grasslands when the airborne LiDAR data was added. (3) The fused data could reduce the phenomenon of different spectral character of the complex and detailed objects. It was also helpful to address the problem of shadows from the high-rise buildings. The results from this study indicate that the synergistic use of high resolution optical imagery and airborne LiDAR data can be an efficient approach to improving the classification of urban land cover.

Science/Technology/Society: Model Lessons for Secondary Social Studies Classes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

LaRue, Robert D., Jr., Ed.

This volume contains 36 lessons designed to be used in secondary social studies classes to introduce the science/technology/society (STS) themes and issues. While the first 11 lessons focus on general STS themes, the other 25 lessons cover specific STS issues that fall under such categories as population growth, water resources, world hunger, food…

Children's Perceptions of National Identity in Wales

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Murphy, Alison; Laugharne, Janet

2013-01-01

The project forms part of a larger doctoral study which examines children's perceptions of national identity and its construction and importance in the world of the child in Wales. The research took place in a primary school class in the South Wales valleys, in a class of 27 children aged 7-8 years. Following an introductory activity, children…

A Great Leap Forward to Excellence in Research at Seoul National University, 1994-2006

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Ki-Seok

2007-01-01

This paper addresses to the question of how to empower research competence of a kind which would lead a peripheral university like SNU to becoming a world-class university. There have been noticeable achievements in building competitive, first class universities in many developing nations, particularly in Asian countries. This paper will examine…

Attending to Student Epistemological Framing in a Science Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hutchison, Paul; Hammer, David

2010-01-01

Studies of learning in school settings indicate that many students frame activities in science classes as the production of answers for the teacher or test, rather than as making new sense of the natural world. A case study of an episode from a class taught by the first author demonstrates what productive and unproductive student framing can look…

Reflections on Play, Pedagogy, and "World of Warcraft"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pirius, Landon K.; Creel, Gill

2010-01-01

In an online class, it's not unusual to never see a teacher or classmates face-to-face. It's not unusual to interact with an instructor and classmates through discussion boards or e-mail and to get information through online documents and presentations rather than live lectures. In the spring of 2009 students in the online class "Warcraft:…

I Grew up Straight 'hood: Unpacking the Intelligences of Working-Class Latino Male College Students in North Carolina

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carrillo, Juan F.

2016-01-01

Primarily drawing from the Mestiz@ Theory of Intelligences (Carrillo, 2013), this article examines how working class Latino male college students in North Carolina navigate multiple cultural worlds and excel academically. This work addresses current gaps in the literature that largely fail to unpack the experiences of academically successful…

Race-Class Relations and Integration in Secondary Education: The Case of Miller High

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eick, Caroline

2010-01-01

Eick explores the history of a comprehensive high school from the world views of its assorted student body, confronting issues of race, ethnicity, class, gender, nationality, and religion. Her case study examines the continuities and differences in student relationships over five decades. While she discusses the "dark side" of the high school…

SRA Economics Materials in Grades One and Two. Evaluation Reports.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shaver, James P.; Larkins, A. Guy

A class of first graders and a class of second graders in four Salt Lake City schools comprised the experimental sample in a study whose objectives were (1) to develop a test for assessing learning with "Our Working World" materials, published by Science Research Associate (SRA), and (2) to determine if students using the materials made…

Making Sense of Injustices in a Classed World: Working-Poor Girls' Discursive Practices and Critical Literacies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, Stephanie

2012-01-01

Drawing from a larger ethnographic study, this article engages post-structural theories of language and critical feminist theories of social class to examine two fourth-grade, White, working-poor girls' narratives about their urban neighbourhood in the United States. The author argues that young girls should be perceived as social theorists…

Teaching Social Policy: Integration of Current Legislation and Media Resources

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeRigne, LeaAnne

2011-01-01

Social work students enter the field of social work for many reasons--from wanting to become clinicians to wanting to advocate for a more socially just world. Social policy classes can be the ideal courses to provide instruction on conducting research on current policy issues. Teaching students about policy advocacy can lead to a class rich with…

Cups, Cowbells, Medals, and Flags: Sport and National Identity in Germany, 1936-2006

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-12-01

Nazism, Maoism, Communism, and Marxism – viewed and incorporated sport into their tenets and tools for attaining ideological goals.20 Nafziger looks at...in the United States – an Old World high bourgeoisie rather than the New World middle class.”150 In Germany, after World War II, the Rotarians...Rotarians. With the aristocratic members fled or dead, the Jewish bourgeoisie extinguished, and the professionals and business elites scrabbling to deal

High-performance thin-layer chromatography screening of multi class antibiotics in animal food by bioluminescent bioautography and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Chen, Yisheng; Schwack, Wolfgang

2014-08-22

The world-wide usage and partly abuse of veterinary antibiotics resulted in a pressing need to control residues in animal-derived foods. Large-scale screening for residues of antibiotics is typically performed by microbial agar diffusion tests. This work employing high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) combined with bioautography and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry introduces a rapid and efficient method for a multi-class screening of antibiotic residues. The viability of the bioluminescent bacterium Aliivibrio fischeri to the studied antibiotics (16 species of 5 groups) was optimized on amino plates, enabling detection sensitivity down to the strictest maximum residue limits. The HPTLC method was developed not to separate the individual antibiotics, but for cleanup of sample extracts. The studied antibiotics either remained at the start zones (tetracyclines, aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and macrolides) or migrated into the front (amphenicols), while interfering co-extracted matrix compounds were dispersed at hRf 20-80. Only after a few hours, the multi-sample plate image clearly revealed the presence or absence of antibiotic residues. Moreover, molecular information as to the suspected findings was rapidly achieved by HPTLC-mass spectrometry. Showing remarkable sensitivity and matrix-tolerance, the established method was successfully applied to milk and kidney samples. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Determinants of bird conservation-action implementation and associated population trends of threatened species.

PubMed

Luther, David A; Brooks, Thomas M; Butchart, Stuart H M; Hayward, Matt W; Kester, Marieke E; Lamoreux, John; Upgren, Amy

2016-12-01

Conservation actions, such as habitat protection, attempt to halt the loss of threatened species and help their populations recover. The efficiency and the effectiveness of actions have been examined individually. However, conservation actions generally occur simultaneously, so the full suite of implemented conservation actions should be assessed. We used the conservation actions underway for all threatened and near-threatened birds of the world (International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species) to assess which biological (related to taxonomy and ecology) and anthropogenic (related to geoeconomics) factors were associated with the implementation of different classes of conservation actions. We also assessed which conservation actions were associated with population increases in the species targeted. Extinction-risk category was the strongest single predictor of the type of conservation actions implemented, followed by landmass type (continent, oceanic island, etc.) and generation length. Species targeted by invasive nonnative species control or eradication programs, ex situ conservation, international legislation, reintroduction, or education, and awareness-raising activities were more likely to have increasing populations. These results illustrate the importance of developing a predictive science of conservation actions and the relative benefits of each class of implemented conservation action for threatened and near-threatened birds worldwide. © 2016 Society for Conservation Biology.

Trap style influences wild pig behavior and trapping success

USGS Publications Warehouse

Williams, B.L.; Holtfreter, R.W.; Ditchkoff, S.S.; Grand, J.B.

2011-01-01

Despite the efforts of many natural resource professionals, wild pig (Sus scrofa) populations are expanding in many areas of the world. Although many creative techniques for controlling pig populations are being explored, trapping has been and still is themost commonly usedmethod of population control formany public and private land managers. We conducted an observational study to examine the efficiency of 2 frequently used trap styles: a small, portable box-style trap and a larger, semi-permanent, corral-style trap.We used game cameras to examine patterns of trap entry by wild pigs around each style of trap, and we conducted a trapping session to compare trapping success between trap styles. Adult female and juvenile wild pigs entered both styles of trap more readily than did adult males, and adult males seemed particularly averse to entering box traps. Less than 10% of adult male visits to box traps resulted in entries, easily the least percentage of any class at any style of trap. Adult females entered corral traps approximately 2.2 times more often per visit than box traps and re-entered corral traps >2 times more frequently. Juveniles entered and reentered both box and corral traps at similar rates. Overall (all-class) entry-per-visit rates at corral traps (0.71) were nearly double that of box traps (0.37). Subsequent trapping data supported these preliminary entry data; the capture rate for corral traps was >4 times that of box traps. Our data suggest that corral traps are temporally and economically superior to box traps with respect to efficiency; that is, corral traps effectively trap more pigs per trap night at a lower cost per pig than do box traps. ?? 2011 The Wildlife Society.

Phytoplankton class-specific primary production in the world's oceans: Seasonal and interannual variability from satellite observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uitz, Julia; Claustre, Hervé; Gentili, Bernard; Stramski, Dariusz

2010-09-01

We apply an innovative approach to time series data of surface chlorophyll from satellite observations with SeaWiFS (Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor) to estimate the primary production associated with three major phytoplankton classes (micro-, nano-, and picophytoplankton) within the world's oceans. Statistical relationships, determined from an extensive in situ database of phytoplankton pigments, are used to infer class-specific vertical profiles of chlorophyll a concentration from satellite-derived surface chlorophyll a. This information is combined with a primary production model and class-specific photophysiological parameters to compute global seasonal fields of class-specific primary production over a 10-year period from January 1998 through December 2007. Microphytoplankton (mostly diatoms) appear as a major contributor to total primary production in coastal upwelling systems (70%) and temperate and subpolar regions (50%) during the spring-summer season. The contribution of picophytoplankton (e.g., prokaryotes) reaches maximum values (45%) in subtropical oligotrophic gyres. Nanophytoplankton (e.g., prymnesiophytes) provide a ubiquitous, substantial contribution (30-60%). Annual global estimates of class-specific primary production amount to 15 Gt C yr-1 (32% of total), 20 Gt C yr-1 (44%) and 11 Gt C yr-1 (24%) for micro-, nano-, and picophytoplankton, respectively. The analysis of interannual variations revealed large anomalies in class-specific primary production as compared to the 10-year mean cycle in both the productive North Atlantic basin and the more stable equatorial Pacific upwelling. Microphytoplankton show the largest range of variability of the three phytoplankton classes on seasonal and interannual time scales. Our results contribute to an understanding and quantification of carbon cycle in the ocean.

Improved heavy-duty vehicle fuel efficiency in India, benefits, costs and environmental impacts

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gopal, Anand R.; Karali, Nihan; Sharpe, Ben

The main objectives of this analysis are to examine the benefits and costs of fuel-saving technologies for new heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) in India over the next 10 years and, to explore how various scenarios for the deployment of vehicles with these technologies will impact petroleum consumption and carbon dioxide (CO 2) emissions over the next three decades. The study team developed simulation models for three representative HDV types—a 40-tonne tractor-trailer, 25-tonne rigid truck, and 16-tonne transit bus—based on top-selling vehicle models in the Indian market. The baseline technology profiles for all three vehicles were developed using India-specific engine data andmore » vehicle specification information from manufacturer literature and input from industry experts. For each of the three vehicles we developed a comprehensive set of seven efficiency technology packages drawing from five major areas: engine, transmission and driveline, tires, aerodynamics, and weight reduction. Our analysis finds that India has substantial opportunity to improve HDV fuel efficiency levels using cost-effective technologies. Results from our simulation modeling of three representative HDV types—a tractor-trailer, rigid truck, and transit bus—reveal that per-vehicle fuel consumption reductions between roughly 20% and 35% are possible with technologies that provide a return on the initial capital investment within 1 to 2 years. Though most of these technologies are currently unavailable in India, experiences in other more advanced markets such as the US and EU suggest that with sufficient incentives and robust regulatory design, significant progress can be made in developing and deploying efficiency technologies that can provide real-world fuel savings for new commercial vehicles in India over the next 10 years. Bringing HDVs in India up to world-class technology levels will yield substantial petroleum and GHG reductions. By 2030, the fuel and CO2 reductions of the scenarios range from 10% to 34%, and at the end of 2050, these reductions grow to 13% and 41%. If we constrain the analysis to select the most efficient technology package that provides the fleets with payback times of 3 years or less, there are annual fleet-wide savings of roughly 11 MTOE of diesel and 34 MMT of CO 2 in 2030, and this grows to 31 MTOE and 97 MMT by 2050.« less

Generalised Sandpile Dynamics on Artificial and Real-World Directed Networks

PubMed Central

Zachariou, Nicky; Expert, Paul; Takayasu, Misako; Christensen, Kim

2015-01-01

The main finding of this paper is a novel avalanche-size exponent τ ≈ 1.87 when the generalised sandpile dynamics evolves on the real-world Japanese inter-firm network. The topology of this network is non-layered and directed, displaying the typical bow tie structure found in real-world directed networks, with cycles and triangles. We show that one can move from a strictly layered regular lattice to a more fluid structure of the inter-firm network in a few simple steps. Relaxing the regular lattice structure by introducing an interlayer distribution for the interactions, forces the scaling exponent of the avalanche-size probability density function τ out of the two-dimensional directed sandpile universality class τ = 4/3, into the mean field universality class τ = 3/2. Numerical investigation shows that these two classes are the only that exist on the directed sandpile, regardless of the underlying topology, as long as it is strictly layered. Randomly adding a small proportion of links connecting non adjacent layers in an otherwise layered network takes the system out of the mean field regime to produce non-trivial avalanche-size probability density function. Although these do not display proper scaling, they closely reproduce the behaviour observed on the Japanese inter-firm network. PMID:26606143

Generalised Sandpile Dynamics on Artificial and Real-World Directed Networks.

PubMed

Zachariou, Nicky; Expert, Paul; Takayasu, Misako; Christensen, Kim

2015-01-01

The main finding of this paper is a novel avalanche-size exponent τ ≈ 1.87 when the generalised sandpile dynamics evolves on the real-world Japanese inter-firm network. The topology of this network is non-layered and directed, displaying the typical bow tie structure found in real-world directed networks, with cycles and triangles. We show that one can move from a strictly layered regular lattice to a more fluid structure of the inter-firm network in a few simple steps. Relaxing the regular lattice structure by introducing an interlayer distribution for the interactions, forces the scaling exponent of the avalanche-size probability density function τ out of the two-dimensional directed sandpile universality class τ = 4/3, into the mean field universality class τ = 3/2. Numerical investigation shows that these two classes are the only that exist on the directed sandpile, regardless of the underlying topology, as long as it is strictly layered. Randomly adding a small proportion of links connecting non adjacent layers in an otherwise layered network takes the system out of the mean field regime to produce non-trivial avalanche-size probability density function. Although these do not display proper scaling, they closely reproduce the behaviour observed on the Japanese inter-firm network.

Analysis of speed, stroke rate, and stroke distance for world-class breaststroke swimming.

PubMed

Garland Fritzdorf, Stephen; Hibbs, Angela; Kleshnev, Valery

2009-02-15

Speed in aquatic locomotion is determined by stroke distance and stroke rate, but it does not always follow that an increase in stroke rate will lead to an increase in speed. Kleshnev (2006) developed a method to evaluate the relationship between speed and stroke rate during rowing - the effective work per stroke. In this case study, the effective work per stroke was determined for a male world-class 100-m breaststroke swimmer for seven races in major championships and compared between: each of the seven races; each quarter within each race; and the best swims of this case study and seven other world-class swimmers. The effective work per stroke was related to race performance, with the fastest race having the highest effective work per stroke and lowest stroke rate, with slower races having low effectiveness and high stroke rate (R(2) = 0.85). The effective work per stroke was reduced in a race as the swimmer fatigued. The within-race standard deviation of effectiveness was lower in fast swims (R(2) = 0.84). This analysis has identified some characteristics of fast swimming: high effectiveness, optimal stroke rate, and a flat effectiveness profile. Training and racing strategies can now be devised to improve performance by increasing the sensitivity of assessment of strengths and weaknesses in individuals.

A 0.4-2.3 GHz broadband power amplifier extended continuous class-F design technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Peng; He, Songbai

2015-08-01

A 0.4-2.3 GHz broadband power amplifier (PA) extended continuous class-F design technology is proposed in this paper. Traditional continuous class-F PA performs in high-efficiency only in one octave bandwidth. With the increasing development of wireless communication, the PA is in demand to cover the mainstream communication standards' working frequencies from 0.4 GHz to 2.2 GHz. In order to achieve this objective, the bandwidths of class-F and continuous class-F PA are analysed and discussed by Fourier series. Also, two criteria, which could reduce the continuous class-F PA's implementation complexity, are presented and explained to investigate the overlapping area of the transistor's current and voltage waveforms. The proposed PA design technology is based on the continuous class-F design method and divides the bandwidth into two parts: the first part covers the bandwidth from 1.3 GHz to 2.3 GHz, where the impedances are designed by the continuous class-F method; the other part covers the bandwidth from 0.4 GHz to 1.3 GHz, where the impedance to guarantee PA to be in high-efficiency over this bandwidth is selected and controlled. The improved particle swarm optimisation is employed for realising the multi-impedances of output and input network. A PA based on a commercial 10 W GaN high electron mobility transistor is designed and fabricated to verify the proposed design method. The simulation and measurement results show that the proposed PA could deliver 40-76% power added efficiency and more than 11 dB power gain with more than 40 dBm output power over the bandwidth from 0.4-2.3 GHz.

Commemorating the End of World War II: How World War II Is Taught in American Classrooms.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barth, James L.

1995-01-01

Explains and presents the results of a survey that asked teachers to rank in importance, and provide time spent on, broad topics (rise of fascism) and related subtopics (Hitler's approach to power). Two-hundred four K-12 teachers responded and provided personal information such as gender and class period length. (MJP)

University Academics at a Crossroads? Continuity and Transformation in Danish University Reform

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krejsler, John B.; Carney, Stephen

2009-01-01

Within an overall policy script aimed at creating fewer "world-class" institutions, Danish universities are currently being remade to better serve the world of work and employment, the demands of high-technology industry, and the needs of society, which are increasingly described and defined in terms of appeals to "relevance to the…

Student Perceptions of Constructivist Concepts in Classes Using Virtual Worlds

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bowers, K. Westmoreland

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to identify constructivist concepts that are important to student-perceived learning outcomes in college courses that use a virtual world, such as Second Life, as an educational tool. Identification of these concepts will help instructors to make the best use of their course design efforts in mediated environments.…

Between Worlds: Poetry, Ethnicity and Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tolan, Jim

2010-01-01

The world of contemporary poetry can be extremely polarised, most obviously between the so-called page poets, who are often academically trained in creative writing programmes, and the so-called stage poets, who are performers as well as poets and, even if they were so inclined, would be hard pressed to find a college or university where they…

Home Is My Area Code: Thinking about, Teaching, and Learning Globalization in Introductory World Religions Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeTemple, Jill

2012-01-01

There has been significant and growing interest in teaching religious studies, and specifically world religions, in a "global' context. Bringing globalization into the classroom as a specific theoretical and pedagogical tool, however, requires not just an awareness that religions exist in an ever-globalizing environment, but a willingness to…

Using Information and Communication Technologies to Motivate Young Learners to Practice English as a Foreign Language in Cyprus

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Diakou, Maria

2015-01-01

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) are continuously evolving and when integrated appropriately these can facilitate foreign language learning classes. Connecting the curriculum to real world tasks in this way prepares "learners for the challenge of coping with the language they hear and read in the real world outside the…

World Foods--Regional and American Foods. Instructor's Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Missouri Univ., Columbia. Instructional Materials Lab.

Three units of study on the American cuisine and regional American foods are provided in this teaching guide designed for use in home economics and world food classes. The first unit focuses on the historical development of the American cuisine and some of its distinguishing features. The second and third units focus on the eastern and western…

Business Schools and Resources Constraints: A Task for Deans or Magicians?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

D'Alessio, Fernando A.; Avolio, Beatrice

2011-01-01

One of the major challenges that face the deans of many business schools is obtaining funding for their academic operations and research to sustain world-class educational quality. Business schools raise resources in their own way, but ways of financing strongly vary when comparing educational institutions among world regions. The purpose of this…

The World Bank Rural Development Field Staff Distance Learning and Training Strategy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mortera-Gutierrez, Fernando

The Rural Development Distance Learning and Training Strategy targets locally recruited field staff of the World Bank Rural Sector. Field staff at the bank's mission offices worldwide are heterogeneous in terms of culture, ethnicity, race, gender, social class, and religion. However, they have the following in common: they follow the Bank's work…

Consistency and Development of Teachers' Epistemological and Ontological World Views

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Olafson, Lori; Schraw, Gregory; Vander Veldt, Michelle

2010-01-01

We examined epistemological and ontological world views using self-report surveys, brief written reflections, and an extended written action research project for a sample of 16 graduate students enrolled in an education class at a large university on the West coast of the USA. We made two predictions. We anticipated that the majority of students…

Promoting Teaching Excellence of Universities in Taiwan: Policy Analysis with a Special Reference to Educational Equality

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yang, Cheng-Cheng; Huang, Yueh-Chun

2012-01-01

As some comparative educators predict, educational policies will move toward similar paths when globalization becomes more powerful. The global higher education expansion in the past decades is one example. The quest of establishing world class universities in the world is another case. The Taiwan government experiences challenges from expansion…

The World Wars through Tabletop Wargaming: An Innovative Approach to University History Teaching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reynaud, Daniel; Northcote, Maria

2015-01-01

This article explores the experiences of a lecturer and students in a class on the World Wars, where wargaming is used alongside traditional lecturing as a learning experience. It outlines the processes used and then evaluates the various kinds of learning, historical and other, that occur. Drawing on literature associated with history education…

The New Teacher Education in the United States: Directions Forward

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cochran-Smith, Marilyn

2008-01-01

There is now unprecedented emphasis on teacher quality in the USA and in many nations around the world with extremely high expectations for teacher performance. Based on the assumption that education and the economy are inextricably linked, it is now assumed that teachers can--and should--teach all students to world-class standards, serve as the…

The returning tide: how China, the world's most populous country, is building a competitive research base.

PubMed

Wells, William A

2007-02-19

When China turned its back on the Cultural Revolution, it aimed to build a thriving capitalist sector. It got one. Now, it wants a world-class research enterprise. How far has it progressed in the biosciences, how did it get there, and how far does it have to go?

Application of Ion Chromatography to the Investigation of Real-World Samples

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Whelan, Rebecca J.; Hannon, Theresa E.; Zare, Richard N.

2004-01-01

The use of ion chromatography (IC) as a means to teach important analytical concepts while giving the students a valuable opportunity to identify and investigate a real-world system of interest to them is described. A single IC apparatus can be tailored for different classes of analyses by the selection of different column-eluent combinations.

World Class Standards for Preparing Teachers of Mathematics. Working Paper #37

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schmidt, William; Burroughs, Nathan; Cogan, Leland

2013-01-01

International comparatives studies in education provide a fresh perspective on K-12 education policy be enabling countries to learn from each other's approaches. The recently conducted Teacher Education and Development Study-Mathematics (TEDS-M) provided us with a world-wide lens to examine some of our practices related to the preparation of U.S.…

Teaching about Pearl Harbor. Curriculum Enhancement Series #1.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shields, Anna Marshall

These materials consist of sample lesson plans for teaching about the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, in both U.S. and world history classes. The lesson plans challenge students to examine how current attitudes toward the Japanese may be rooted in World War II and Pearl Harbor. Selected bibliographies on Pearl Harbor, World…

The Elementary Child's Place in the Natural World

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Allen, Phoebe

2013-01-01

Phoebe Allen's article speaks for the early bonding of children to the natural world prior to the elementary class. She also suggests the continuing exploration of children at elementary age in the outdoors in order to build the necessary sense of wonder and love of the environment to overcome anxiety over the negative realities of the planet's…

Life Inside the Hive: Creating a Space for Literacy to Grow

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saunders, Jane M.

2013-01-01

This piece describes how a 5th grade language arts teacher employed technology to create and sustain a metaphorical, virtual, and physical figured world in her class by means of a web site called "The Hive Society." This world positioned students as intellectuals and scholars, and explored how Ms. Smith integrated 21st Century…

America's Pressing Challenge - Building a Stronger Foundation. A Companion to Science and Engineering Indicators - 2006. NSB-06-02

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Science Foundation, 2006

2006-01-01

This document identifies priorities for ensuring a world-class education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields for all Americans. America's competitive edge in this "flat world," its strength and versatility, all depend on an educational system capable of producing young people and productive citizens who are well…

Globally efficient non-parametric inference of average treatment effects by empirical balancing calibration weighting

PubMed Central

Chan, Kwun Chuen Gary; Yam, Sheung Chi Phillip; Zhang, Zheng

2015-01-01

Summary The estimation of average treatment effects based on observational data is extremely important in practice and has been studied by generations of statisticians under different frameworks. Existing globally efficient estimators require non-parametric estimation of a propensity score function, an outcome regression function or both, but their performance can be poor in practical sample sizes. Without explicitly estimating either functions, we consider a wide class calibration weights constructed to attain an exact three-way balance of the moments of observed covariates among the treated, the control, and the combined group. The wide class includes exponential tilting, empirical likelihood and generalized regression as important special cases, and extends survey calibration estimators to different statistical problems and with important distinctions. Global semiparametric efficiency for the estimation of average treatment effects is established for this general class of calibration estimators. The results show that efficiency can be achieved by solely balancing the covariate distributions without resorting to direct estimation of propensity score or outcome regression function. We also propose a consistent estimator for the efficient asymptotic variance, which does not involve additional functional estimation of either the propensity score or the outcome regression functions. The proposed variance estimator outperforms existing estimators that require a direct approximation of the efficient influence function. PMID:27346982

Globally efficient non-parametric inference of average treatment effects by empirical balancing calibration weighting.

PubMed

Chan, Kwun Chuen Gary; Yam, Sheung Chi Phillip; Zhang, Zheng

2016-06-01

The estimation of average treatment effects based on observational data is extremely important in practice and has been studied by generations of statisticians under different frameworks. Existing globally efficient estimators require non-parametric estimation of a propensity score function, an outcome regression function or both, but their performance can be poor in practical sample sizes. Without explicitly estimating either functions, we consider a wide class calibration weights constructed to attain an exact three-way balance of the moments of observed covariates among the treated, the control, and the combined group. The wide class includes exponential tilting, empirical likelihood and generalized regression as important special cases, and extends survey calibration estimators to different statistical problems and with important distinctions. Global semiparametric efficiency for the estimation of average treatment effects is established for this general class of calibration estimators. The results show that efficiency can be achieved by solely balancing the covariate distributions without resorting to direct estimation of propensity score or outcome regression function. We also propose a consistent estimator for the efficient asymptotic variance, which does not involve additional functional estimation of either the propensity score or the outcome regression functions. The proposed variance estimator outperforms existing estimators that require a direct approximation of the efficient influence function.

In silico designing of power conversion efficient organic lead dyes for solar cells using todays innovative approaches to assure renewable energy for future

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kar, Supratik; Roy, Juganta K.; Leszczynski, Jerzy

2017-06-01

Advances in solar cell technology require designing of new organic dye sensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells with high power conversion efficiency to circumvent the disadvantages of silicon-based solar cells. In silico studies including quantitative structure-property relationship analysis combined with quantum chemical analysis were employed to understand the primary electron transfer mechanism and photo-physical properties of 273 arylamine organic dyes from 11 diverse chemical families explicit to iodine electrolyte. The direct quantitative structure-property relationship models enable identification of the essential electronic and structural attributes necessary for quantifying the molecular prerequisites of 11 classes of arylamine organic dyes, responsible for high power conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells. Tetrahydroquinoline, N,N'-dialkylaniline and indoline have been least explored classes under arylamine organic dyes for dye-sensitized solar cells. Therefore, the identified properties from the corresponding quantitative structure-property relationship models of the mentioned classes were employed in designing of "lead dyes". Followed by, a series of electrochemical and photo-physical parameters were computed for designed dyes to check the required variables for electron flow of dye-sensitized solar cells. The combined computational techniques yielded seven promising lead dyes each for all three chemical classes considered. Significant (130, 183, and 46%) increment in predicted %power conversion efficiency was observed comparing with the existing dye with highest experimental %power conversion efficiency value for tetrahydroquinoline, N,N'-dialkylaniline and indoline, respectively maintaining required electrochemical parameters.

A Study of the Efficiency of the Class of W-States as a Quantum Channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adhikari, Satyabrata; Gangopadhyay, Sunandan

2009-02-01

Recently, a new class of W-states has been defined by Agarwal and Pati (Phys. Rev. A 74:062320, 2006) and it has been shown that they can be used as a quantum channel for teleportation and superdense coding. In this work, we identify those three-qubit states from the set of the new class of W-states which are most efficient or suitable for quantum teleportation. We show that with some probability |W1rangle=1/2(|100rangle+|010rangle+sqrt{2}|001rangle) is best suited for teleportation channel in the sense that it does not depend on the input state.

Constraints on brane-world inflation from the CMB power spectrum: revisited

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gangopadhyay, Mayukh R.; Mathews, Grant J.

2018-03-01

We analyze the Randal Sundrum brane-world inflation scenario in the context of the latest CMB constraints from Planck. We summarize constraints on the most popular classes of models and explore some more realistic inflaton effective potentials. The constraint on standard inflationary parameters changes in the brane-world scenario. We confirm that in general the brane-world scenario increases the tensor-to-scalar ratio, thus making this paradigm less consistent with the Planck constraints. Indeed, when BICEP2/Keck constraints are included, all monomial potentials in the brane-world scenario become disfavored compared to the standard scenario. However, for natural inflation the brane-world scenario could fit the constraints better due to larger allowed values of e-foldings N before the end of inflation in the brane-world.

How can UNESCO World Heritage Criteria be applied to the ``Windows to the Universe'' Sites?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cotte, Michel

2016-10-01

This communication proposes a methodical approach trying to link the concept of ``Windows to the Universe'' to the uses of the Criteria defined by the World Heritage Convention (UNESCO 1972). The first issue is well advanced today after more than 10 years of active studies and preservation projects such as ``Starlight Reserves'' by specialists of astronomy, archaeoastronomy and environmental sciences. The second issue is related to a UNESCO Convention ruled by the WH Committee that has led to the recognition of around 1000 World Heritage sites over 40 years. The official booklet Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention (latest edition 2015) (UNESCO 2015) summarizes conceptual ideas and methodological recommendations for WH nominations. In practice the WH Committee's decisions rely on the scientific and professional evaluation of each site by UNESCO's advisory bodies: ICOMOS for cultural heritage and IUCN for natural heritage. The first goal of this presentation is to establish appropriate understanding of a very specific conceptual approach (Windows to the Universe) in the context of a very large UN Convention (the World Heritage List) related both to cultural and natural heritage in general. The second goal is to give a readable understanding of the WH requirements coming from the strict evaluation of the ``Outstanding Universal Value'' (OUV) of a given place, including the choice of WH Criteria expressing OUV with respect to the format of the Guidelines. Furthermore, and due to concepts coming from two very different fields, the communication aims to present a practical methodology in the case of a possible WH nomination: how to understand relationships between different classes of value and how to demonstrate OUV and justify the choice of Criteria for the place. Beyond potential WH projects, obviously limited in number, the communication tries to propose an efficient and general methodology for assessing the value and creating understanding of places having a ``Windows to the Universe'' facet.

The Mini-Economy: Integrating Economics into the Elementary Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Indiana State Dept. of Education, Indianapolis.

The focus of this guide is to simulate real world economic activity in the classroom by using a form of economics instruction called a " mini-economy." In a mini-economy, students earn play money in a variety of ways and spend it at a class store or class auction. Students apply for classroom jobs, run businesses, pay taxes, buy rental properties,…

The Middle Class Is Key to a Better-Educated Nation: A Stronger Middle Class Is Associated with Better Educational Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Madland, David; Bunker, Nick

2011-01-01

Education is key to America's economic success as technological change and global competition increase exponentially. Unfortunately, where once the nation was atop the world academically, today American students rank in the middle of the pack. Not surprisingly, business leaders and the American public are concerned about the quality of American…

Fuel Cell-Powered Go-Kart: Project Mimics Real-World Product Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fuller, Amanda

2010-01-01

Five years ago, Leon Strecker's technology education class at Darien High School came up with the idea of building a fuel cell-powered go-kart. In previous years, the class had worked on other creations, such as electric cars that competed in a state-sponsored race and a full-size hovercraft. But students had not taken on anything anywhere near…

Intersecting Realities: A Novice's Attempts to Use Critical Literacy to Access Her Students' Figured Worlds

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saunders, Jane M.

2012-01-01

Research suggests that while students in public schools in the U.S. are becoming increasingly diverse in terms of race, ethnicity, class, and culture, the pool of prospective teachers is made up largely of White, middle-class women. The demographic imperative indicates that this trend will remain stable for the foreseeable future, reinforcing the…

Towards the Development of Intercultural Competence Skills: A Pedagogical Experience with Pre-Service Teachers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ramos Holguín, Bertha

2013-01-01

Although interculturality has been the focus of several studies which reveal a tendency to include an understanding of students' home culture and cultures around the world in the English language classes, few studies focus on the inclusion of an intercultural component in a class different from the English one. This article aims to share a…

Writing as Envision: Autobiographical and Academic Writing in the Composition Class.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tokarczyk, Michelle M.

Three students in an autobiography class--an African-American, a woman, and a gay man struggling to come out--used their writing to both affirm their places in the world and envision another place. Having reviewed her early educational experiences as an African-American, Holly focused her essay back to her present college days and her attempts to…

Was Columbus a Hero? A Study of Students Who Have Been Confronted with Multiple Historical Narratives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pollock, Scott A.

2013-01-01

This paper compares two attempts by the author to teach two different grade 12 world history classes to think historically. Both classes were presented with a similar assignment that revolved around the conflicting historical accounts of Christopher Columbus. However, the second group of students was also provided with direct instruction about the…

A Still Point in a Turning World

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nichols, Judy

2003-01-01

There is an estimated 1 million children who are homeless each year. Many bounce from school to school as they move from place to place. They miss class, lose ground academically, and their grades slip. They have problems socially because they don't have clean clothes or a place to shower. They fall asleep in class because they don't feel safe…

Scaling Up: Faculty Workload, Class Size, and Student Satisfaction in a Distance Learning Course on Geographic Information Science.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dibiase, David; Rademacher, Henry J.

2005-01-01

This article explores issues of scalability and sustainability in distance learning. The authors kept detailed records of time they spent teaching a course in geographic information science via the World Wide Web over a six-month period, during which class sizes averaged 49 students. The authors also surveyed students' satisfaction with the…

Medical Communication as Art--An Interview with Christine Borland

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lu, Peih-ying

2010-01-01

The artist Christine Borland, born in Scotland, is well known for fusing art and science. She was nominated for the Turner Prize in 1997, and developed an early interest in the representation of the body. This interest blossomed into a broader exploration of the medical world through art with such works as "Second Class Male, Second Class Female,"…

From chaos to control: winning the war.

PubMed

Wojciak, P J

1994-08-01

This article illustrates how a small manufacturing facility in the Midwest undertook the process of an MRP II implementation and ultimately gained class A status at a true make-or-break time in its history. The control that was gained throughout the entire process has helped create a winning environment and will continue to strengthen our position as we move toward world-class excellence.

Teachers' Attitudes and Perceptions toward the Use of Inspiration 6 Software in Inclusive World History Classes at the Secondary Level

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boon, Richard T.; Fore, Cecil, III; Spencer, Vicky G.

2007-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine teachers' attitudes and perceptions toward the use of technology-based instruction (i.e., "Inspiration 6 software") as an effective instructional strategy in inclusive social studies classes. Three high school social studies teachers, one general education and two special education teachers, completed a…

Content Analysis of the Papers in 2015 High-Impact A-Class SSCI Journals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ay, Sule; Sahin, Seyma; Okmen, Burcu; Incirci, Ayhan

2016-01-01

It was aimed in this study to reveal the general tendency of studies in the field of education by examining the papers in the high-impact A-class SSCI journals, to which qualified papers are accepted from all around the world, in terms of their dependent-independent variables, sample or study groups, research designs, data collection instruments,…

Teaching Large Classes in an Increasingly Internationalising Higher Education Environment: Pedagogical, Quality and Equity Issues

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maringe, Felix; Sing, Nevensha

2014-01-01

Marketisation, increased student mobility, the massification of Higher Education (HE) and stagnating staff numbers in universities have combined to cause a ripple effect of change both in the demography and size of university classes across the world. This has implications for the quality and equity of learning and the need to examine and to…

The International Baccalaureate and a Framework for Class Consciousness: The Potential Outcomes of a "Class-for-Itself"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bunnell, Tristan

2010-01-01

The International Baccalaureate (IB) examination system in early 2010 was on offer in 2700 schools in 139 countries. Since 1999, the Geneva-registered IB has created a platform for image consolidation, product standardization, and technological linkage. Out of this has emerged a globally branded "IB World", educating the "IB Learner", using an…

Grouped to Achieve: Are There Benefits to Assigning Students to Heterogeneous Cooperative Learning Groups Based on Pre-Test Scores?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Werth, Arman Karl

Cooperative learning has been one of the most widely used instructional practices around the world since the early 1980's. Small learning groups have been in existence since the beginning of the human race. These groups have grown in their variance and complexity overtime. Classrooms are getting more diverse every year and instructors need a way to take advantage of this diversity to improve learning. The purpose of this study was to see if heterogeneous cooperative learning groups based on student achievement can be used as a differentiated instructional strategy to increase students' ability to demonstrate knowledge of science concepts and ability to do engineering design. This study includes two different groups made up of two different middle school science classrooms of 25-30 students. These students were given an engineering design problem to solve within cooperative learning groups. One class was put into heterogeneous cooperative learning groups based on student's pre-test scores. The other class was grouped based on random assignment. The study measured the difference between each class's pre-post gains, student's responses to a group interaction form and interview questions addressing their perceptions of the makeup of their groups. The findings of the study were that there was no significant difference between learning gains for the treatment and comparison groups. There was a significant difference between the treatment and comparison groups in student perceptions of their group's ability to stay on task and manage their time efficiently. Both the comparison and treatment groups had a positive perception of the composition of their cooperative learning groups.

Image classification of human carcinoma cells using complex wavelet-based covariance descriptors.

PubMed

Keskin, Furkan; Suhre, Alexander; Kose, Kivanc; Ersahin, Tulin; Cetin, A Enis; Cetin-Atalay, Rengul

2013-01-01

Cancer cell lines are widely used for research purposes in laboratories all over the world. Computer-assisted classification of cancer cells can alleviate the burden of manual labeling and help cancer research. In this paper, we present a novel computerized method for cancer cell line image classification. The aim is to automatically classify 14 different classes of cell lines including 7 classes of breast and 7 classes of liver cancer cells. Microscopic images containing irregular carcinoma cell patterns are represented by subwindows which correspond to foreground pixels. For each subwindow, a covariance descriptor utilizing the dual-tree complex wavelet transform (DT-[Formula: see text]WT) coefficients and several morphological attributes are computed. Directionally selective DT-[Formula: see text]WT feature parameters are preferred primarily because of their ability to characterize edges at multiple orientations which is the characteristic feature of carcinoma cell line images. A Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier with radial basis function (RBF) kernel is employed for final classification. Over a dataset of 840 images, we achieve an accuracy above 98%, which outperforms the classical covariance-based methods. The proposed system can be used as a reliable decision maker for laboratory studies. Our tool provides an automated, time- and cost-efficient analysis of cancer cell morphology to classify different cancer cell lines using image-processing techniques, which can be used as an alternative to the costly short tandem repeat (STR) analysis. The data set used in this manuscript is available as supplementary material through http://signal.ee.bilkent.edu.tr/cancerCellLineClassificationSampleImages.html.

Image Classification of Human Carcinoma Cells Using Complex Wavelet-Based Covariance Descriptors

PubMed Central

Keskin, Furkan; Suhre, Alexander; Kose, Kivanc; Ersahin, Tulin; Cetin, A. Enis; Cetin-Atalay, Rengul

2013-01-01

Cancer cell lines are widely used for research purposes in laboratories all over the world. Computer-assisted classification of cancer cells can alleviate the burden of manual labeling and help cancer research. In this paper, we present a novel computerized method for cancer cell line image classification. The aim is to automatically classify 14 different classes of cell lines including 7 classes of breast and 7 classes of liver cancer cells. Microscopic images containing irregular carcinoma cell patterns are represented by subwindows which correspond to foreground pixels. For each subwindow, a covariance descriptor utilizing the dual-tree complex wavelet transform (DT-WT) coefficients and several morphological attributes are computed. Directionally selective DT-WT feature parameters are preferred primarily because of their ability to characterize edges at multiple orientations which is the characteristic feature of carcinoma cell line images. A Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier with radial basis function (RBF) kernel is employed for final classification. Over a dataset of 840 images, we achieve an accuracy above 98%, which outperforms the classical covariance-based methods. The proposed system can be used as a reliable decision maker for laboratory studies. Our tool provides an automated, time- and cost-efficient analysis of cancer cell morphology to classify different cancer cell lines using image-processing techniques, which can be used as an alternative to the costly short tandem repeat (STR) analysis. The data set used in this manuscript is available as supplementary material through http://signal.ee.bilkent.edu.tr/cancerCellLineClassificationSampleImages.html. PMID:23341908

A Review of Multivariate Distributions for Count Data Derived from the Poisson Distribution.

PubMed

Inouye, David; Yang, Eunho; Allen, Genevera; Ravikumar, Pradeep

2017-01-01

The Poisson distribution has been widely studied and used for modeling univariate count-valued data. Multivariate generalizations of the Poisson distribution that permit dependencies, however, have been far less popular. Yet, real-world high-dimensional count-valued data found in word counts, genomics, and crime statistics, for example, exhibit rich dependencies, and motivate the need for multivariate distributions that can appropriately model this data. We review multivariate distributions derived from the univariate Poisson, categorizing these models into three main classes: 1) where the marginal distributions are Poisson, 2) where the joint distribution is a mixture of independent multivariate Poisson distributions, and 3) where the node-conditional distributions are derived from the Poisson. We discuss the development of multiple instances of these classes and compare the models in terms of interpretability and theory. Then, we empirically compare multiple models from each class on three real-world datasets that have varying data characteristics from different domains, namely traffic accident data, biological next generation sequencing data, and text data. These empirical experiments develop intuition about the comparative advantages and disadvantages of each class of multivariate distribution that was derived from the Poisson. Finally, we suggest new research directions as explored in the subsequent discussion section.

Navy Ship Names: Background for Congress

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-10-20

big deck amphibious assault ships were named for World War II -era Navy aircraft carriers and earlier Navy ships. • Lewis and Clark (TAKE-1) class...8 Warner served as a sailor in World War II , as a Marine in the Korean War, as Under Secretary of the Navy in 1969- 1972...States has not built since World War II ) be named after states. 12 The Naval Institute Guide to the Ships and Aircraft of the U.S. Fleet, op cit, p

Wealth of the world's richest publicly traded companies per industry and per employee: Gamma, Log-normal and Pareto power-law as universal distributions?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soriano-Hernández, P.; del Castillo-Mussot, M.; Campirán-Chávez, I.; Montemayor-Aldrete, J. A.

2017-04-01

Forbes Magazine published its list of leading or strongest publicly-traded two thousand companies in the world (G-2000) based on four independent metrics: sales or revenues, profits, assets and market value. Every one of these wealth metrics yields particular information on the corporate size or wealth size of each firm. The G-2000 cumulative probability wealth distribution per employee (per capita) for all four metrics exhibits a two-class structure: quasi-exponential in the lower part, and a Pareto power-law in the higher part. These two-class structure per capita distributions are qualitatively similar to income and wealth distributions in many countries of the world, but the fraction of firms per employee within the high-class Pareto is about 49% in sales per employee, and 33% after averaging on the four metrics, whereas in countries the fraction of rich agents in the Pareto zone is less than 10%. The quasi-exponential zone can be adjusted by Gamma or Log-normal distributions. On the other hand, Forbes classifies the G-2000 firms in 82 different industries or economic activities. Within each industry, the wealth distribution per employee also follows a two-class structure, but when the aggregate wealth of firms in each industry for the four metrics is divided by the total number of employees in that industry, then the 82 points of the aggregate wealth distribution by industry per employee can be well adjusted by quasi-exponential curves for the four metrics.

Tough new jack-up for rough seas

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

1984-01-01

Rowan Company's new deepwater jack-up, Rowan Gorilla I, is scheduled to spud its initial well off the east coast of Canada later this month for a consortium of oil companies including Bow Valley-Husky and ATS Exploration Ltd. The new rig's class designation--Gorilla--reflects designers' expectations for the drilling unit that is suited to work in virtually all ice-free hostile environmental areas of the world. Rowan's confidence in the design, built by Marathon LeTourneau's Vicksburg, Mississippi yard, is reiterated by the fact that two additional rigs in the Gorilla class are being built. Rowan Gorilla II is being constructed at Marathon's Singaporemore » yard, and the Rowan Gorilla III is in early construction stages at the firm's Vicksburg yard. The three Gorilla-class rigs will cost in excess of $85 million each, including owner-furnished drilling equipment. This, according to owners, will make them among the costliest jack-ups in the world. Another record being claimed by the Gorilla-class drilling units is that they are the largest jack-ups in the world. Fully outfitted, a Gorilla contains 16,000 tons of steel. Its triangular hull measures 297 ft from bow to stern and 292 ft across the stern. The rig has a variable load of 2,750 tons for drilling consumables and 42,265 sq ft of deck space. Its ample storage capacity, along with its 503-ft leg length and certain design features, makes the rig compatible with hostile offshore areas, where it can continue drilling for long periods unattended.« less

Potent insect gut binding lectin from Sclerotium rolfsii impart resistance to sucking and chewing type insects in cotton.

PubMed

Vanti, Gulamnabi L; Katageri, Ishwarappa S; Inamdar, Shashikala R; Hiremathada, Vamadevaiah; Swamy, Bale M

2018-04-30

Cotton is an important crop that is continuously cultivated around the world. However, its production has decreased in recent times due to wide ranging insects and also current practices of using synthetic insecticides that are not precise and their residues impairing the biodiversity. Hence, the search for newer classes of efficient entomotoxic proteins continues. Genetically modified cotton crops with cry genes from Bacillus thuringiensis, have been cultivated across the world, which overcome the chewing type insect menace. In the present study, we assess the development of transgenic cotton plants by Agrobacterium, wherein the confirmed kanamycin resistant T 0 plants were advanced to T 1 generation and the gene integration was studied by molecular analysis. Western blot and ELISA assays demonstrated the expression of 0.46% lectin of the total soluble leaf proteins. In planta bioassay showed 69% of aphid, Aphis gossypii population reduction with T 1 generation plants. Whereas 100% insect mortality is occurred in Spodoptera litura larvae by 96 h. Present findings shows the potent insecticidal effect of Sclerotium rolfsii lectin on sucking (homopteran) and chewing (lepidopteron) insects, underlining its significance and strengthening genetic resources in cotton breeding against different order insect pests. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Exploring performance issues for a clinical database organized using an entity-attribute-value representation.

PubMed

Chen, R S; Nadkarni, P; Marenco, L; Levin, F; Erdos, J; Miller, P L

2000-01-01

The entity-attribute-value representation with classes and relationships (EAV/CR) provides a flexible and simple database schema to store heterogeneous biomedical data. In certain circumstances, however, the EAV/CR model is known to retrieve data less efficiently than conventionally based database schemas. To perform a pilot study that systematically quantifies performance differences for database queries directed at real-world microbiology data modeled with EAV/CR and conventional representations, and to explore the relative merits of different EAV/CR query implementation strategies. Clinical microbiology data obtained over a ten-year period were stored using both database models. Query execution times were compared for four clinically oriented attribute-centered and entity-centered queries operating under varying conditions of database size and system memory. The performance characteristics of three different EAV/CR query strategies were also examined. Performance was similar for entity-centered queries in the two database models. Performance in the EAV/CR model was approximately three to five times less efficient than its conventional counterpart for attribute-centered queries. The differences in query efficiency became slightly greater as database size increased, although they were reduced with the addition of system memory. The authors found that EAV/CR queries formulated using multiple, simple SQL statements executed in batch were more efficient than single, large SQL statements. This paper describes a pilot project to explore issues in and compare query performance for EAV/CR and conventional database representations. Although attribute-centered queries were less efficient in the EAV/CR model, these inefficiencies may be addressable, at least in part, by the use of more powerful hardware or more memory, or both.

Pharmacy Residency School-wide Match Rates and Modifiable Predictors in ACPE-accredited Colleges and Schools of Pharmacy

PubMed Central

Whittaker, Alana; Shan, Guogen

2017-01-01

Objective. To analyze the modifiable predictors of institution-wide residency match rates. Methods. This was a retrospective analysis of colleges and schools of pharmacy data and school-wide PGY-1 pharmacy residency match rates for 2013 through 2015. Independent variables included NAPLEX passing rates, history of ACPE probation, NIH funding, academic health center affiliation, dual-degree availability, program length, admit-to-applicant ratio, class size, tuition, student-driven research, clinically focused academic tracks, residency affiliation, U.S. News & World Report rankings, and minority enrollment. Results. In a repeated measures model, predictors of match results were NAPLEX pass rate, class size, academic health center affiliation, admit-to-applicant ratio, U.S. News & World Report rankings, and minority enrollment. Conclusion. Indicators of student achievement, college/school reputation, affiliations, and class demographics were significant predictors of institution-wide residency match rates. Further research is needed to understand how changes in these factors may influence overall match rates. PMID:29367773

Riboswitches for the alarmone ppGpp expand the collection of RNA-based signaling systems

PubMed Central

Sudarsan, Narasimhan; Breaker, Ronald R.

2018-01-01

Riboswitches are noncoding portions of certain mRNAs that bind metabolite, coenzyme, signaling molecule, or inorganic ion ligands and regulate gene expression. Most known riboswitches sense derivatives of RNA monomers. This bias in ligand chemical composition is consistent with the hypothesis that widespread riboswitch classes first emerged during the RNA World, which is proposed to have existed before proteins were present. Here we report the discovery and biochemical validation of a natural riboswitch class that selectively binds guanosine tetraphosphate (ppGpp), a widespread signaling molecule and bacterial “alarmone” derived from the ribonucleotide GTP. Riboswitches for ppGpp are predicted to regulate genes involved in branched-chain amino acid biosynthesis and transport, as well as other gene classes that previously had not been implicated to be part of its signaling network. This newfound riboswitch–alarmone partnership supports the hypothesis that prominent RNA World signaling pathways have been retained by modern cells to control key biological processes. PMID:29784782

Morality and Intimate Partner Violence: Do Men in Court-Mandated Psychological Treatment Hold a Sacred Moral Vision of the World and Themselves?

PubMed

Vecina, María L; Chacón, José C

2016-01-01

This article examines the characterization of men in a court-mandated treatment for violence against their partners as holding a sacred vision of the 5 moral foundations and of their own morality. This characterization is compatible with the assumption that a sacred moral world is easily threatened by reality and that may be associated to violent defensive actions. The results from latent class analyses reveal (a) a 4-class distribution depending exclusively on the intensity with which all participants (violent and nonviolent) tend to sacralize the actions proposed in the Moral Foundations Sacredness Scale and (b) a greater prevalence of the violent participants among the classes that are more prone to sacralize. They also show that they hold an inflated moral vision of themselves: They think they are much more moral than intelligent than others who have never been charged with criminal behavior (Muhammad Ali effect).

Riboswitches for the alarmone ppGpp expand the collection of RNA-based signaling systems.

PubMed

Sherlock, Madeline E; Sudarsan, Narasimhan; Breaker, Ronald R

2018-06-05

Riboswitches are noncoding portions of certain mRNAs that bind metabolite, coenzyme, signaling molecule, or inorganic ion ligands and regulate gene expression. Most known riboswitches sense derivatives of RNA monomers. This bias in ligand chemical composition is consistent with the hypothesis that widespread riboswitch classes first emerged during the RNA World, which is proposed to have existed before proteins were present. Here we report the discovery and biochemical validation of a natural riboswitch class that selectively binds guanosine tetraphosphate (ppGpp), a widespread signaling molecule and bacterial "alarmone" derived from the ribonucleotide GTP. Riboswitches for ppGpp are predicted to regulate genes involved in branched-chain amino acid biosynthesis and transport, as well as other gene classes that previously had not been implicated to be part of its signaling network. This newfound riboswitch-alarmone partnership supports the hypothesis that prominent RNA World signaling pathways have been retained by modern cells to control key biological processes. Copyright © 2018 the Author(s). Published by PNAS.

Shot trajectory parameters in gold medal stationary shot-putters during world-class competition.

PubMed

Frossard, Laurent; Smeathers, James; O'Riordan, Alison; Goodman, Scott

2007-10-01

The parameters of the shot's trajectory were reported for male and female gold medalists (classes F52, F53, F54, and F55) who competed at the 2000 Paralympic Games and the 2002 International Paralympic Committee (IPC) World Championships. The specific objective was to determine the magnitude of differences in these parameters across classes and genders. The release velocity of the shot increased with the performance and the classification for both males (8.30 m/s - 9.96 m/s) and females (4.58 m/s - 8.50 m/s). The measured angle of the shot's trajectory at release also increased with the performance and the classification for both males (27.54 degrees - 32.47 degrees) and females (9.02 degrees - 34.52 degrees). The position of the shot from a fixed reference point at release revealed a similar trend for both males (2.01 m - 2.68 m) and females (1.16 m - 1.98 m), although it was weaker.

Pharmacy Residency School-wide Match Rates and Modifiable Predictors in ACPE-accredited Colleges and Schools of Pharmacy.

PubMed

Whittaker, Alana; Smith, Katherine P; Shan, Guogen

2017-12-01

Objective. To analyze the modifiable predictors of institution-wide residency match rates. Methods. This was a retrospective analysis of colleges and schools of pharmacy data and school-wide PGY-1 pharmacy residency match rates for 2013 through 2015. Independent variables included NAPLEX passing rates, history of ACPE probation, NIH funding, academic health center affiliation, dual-degree availability, program length, admit-to-applicant ratio, class size, tuition, student-driven research, clinically focused academic tracks, residency affiliation, U.S. News & World Report rankings, and minority enrollment. Results. In a repeated measures model, predictors of match results were NAPLEX pass rate, class size, academic health center affiliation, admit-to-applicant ratio, U.S. News & World Report rankings, and minority enrollment. Conclusion. Indicators of student achievement, college/school reputation, affiliations, and class demographics were significant predictors of institution-wide residency match rates. Further research is needed to understand how changes in these factors may influence overall match rates.

Model selection for anomaly detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burnaev, E.; Erofeev, P.; Smolyakov, D.

2015-12-01

Anomaly detection based on one-class classification algorithms is broadly used in many applied domains like image processing (e.g. detection of whether a patient is "cancerous" or "healthy" from mammography image), network intrusion detection, etc. Performance of an anomaly detection algorithm crucially depends on a kernel, used to measure similarity in a feature space. The standard approaches (e.g. cross-validation) for kernel selection, used in two-class classification problems, can not be used directly due to the specific nature of a data (absence of a second, abnormal, class data). In this paper we generalize several kernel selection methods from binary-class case to the case of one-class classification and perform extensive comparison of these approaches using both synthetic and real-world data.

[Microinvasive dental treatment in pre-school children].

PubMed

Korolenkova, M V

The aim of the study was to assess the efficiency of atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) with cavity preparation by means of dental endo motor. ART method was applied in 94 children (50 females and 44 males, 301 teeth treated) aged 21-96 months. Wireless dental endo motor (Endo Mate TC2, NSK, Japan) was used for cavity preparation. The cavities (102 (33.9%) class I, 156 (51.8%) class V, 20 (6.6%) class II, 18 (6%) class III and 5 (1.7%) class IV) were then filled with glass-ionomer cement (Fuji IX, GC, Japan). Success rate was assessed 3, 6, 12 and 18 months after treatment. Overall ART procedure success rate (good marginal fit, no occlusal wearing or restoration fractures) at 18-month follow up was 88.7% (267 fillings out of 301) with the highest survival in class I (96.1%) and class V (96.2%) restoration and poorest in class II (50%), class III (44.4%) and class IV (20%) restorations. Cavity preparation with wireless dental endo motor was well tolerated even by infants (12 children were younger than 24 months), as it is noiseless and significantly faster than conventional manual preparation. ART method with the use of dental endo motor showed good success rate and proved to be highly efficient in small and apprehensive children. The method, however, should be avoided in class III and IV cavities as the success rate is poor mostly because of restoration fractures.

Fukunaga-Koontz transform based dimensionality reduction for hyperspectral imagery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ochilov, S.; Alam, M. S.; Bal, A.

2006-05-01

Fukunaga-Koontz Transform based technique offers some attractive properties for desired class oriented dimensionality reduction in hyperspectral imagery. In FKT, feature selection is performed by transforming into a new space where feature classes have complimentary eigenvectors. Dimensionality reduction technique based on these complimentary eigenvector analysis can be described under two classes, desired class and background clutter, such that each basis function best represent one class while carrying the least amount of information from the second class. By selecting a few eigenvectors which are most relevant to desired class, one can reduce the dimension of hyperspectral cube. Since the FKT based technique reduces data size, it provides significant advantages for near real time detection applications in hyperspectral imagery. Furthermore, the eigenvector selection approach significantly reduces computation burden via the dimensionality reduction processes. The performance of the proposed dimensionality reduction algorithm has been tested using real-world hyperspectral dataset.

Computer Applications in Class and Transportation Scheduling. Educational Management Review Series Number 1.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Piele, Philip K.

This document shows how computer technology can aid educators in meeting demands for improved class scheduling and more efficient use of transportation resources. The first section surveys literature on operational systems that provide individualized scheduling for students, varied class structures, and maximum use of space and staff skills.…

40 CFR 82.3 - Definitions for class I and class II controlled substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... sell one (1) kilogram of class I, Group VI controlled substances from inventory produced or imported... for pre-plant uses means the privilege granted by this subpart to produce or import one (1) kilogram... substance at a destruction efficiency of 98 percent or greater, using one of the destruction technologies...

40 CFR 82.3 - Definitions for class I and class II controlled substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... sell one (1) kilogram of class I, Group VI controlled substances from inventory produced or imported... for pre-plant uses means the privilege granted by this subpart to produce or import one (1) kilogram... substance at a destruction efficiency of 98 percent or greater, using one of the destruction technologies...

40 CFR 82.3 - Definitions for class I and class II controlled substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... sell one (1) kilogram of class I, Group VI controlled substances from inventory produced or imported... for pre-plant uses means the privilege granted by this subpart to produce or import one (1) kilogram... substance at a destruction efficiency of 98 percent or greater, using one of the destruction technologies...

40 CFR 82.3 - Definitions for class I and class II controlled substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... sell one (1) kilogram of class I, Group VI controlled substances from inventory produced or imported... for pre-plant uses means the privilege granted by this subpart to produce or import one (1) kilogram... substance at a destruction efficiency of 98 percent or greater, using one of the destruction technologies...

40 CFR 82.3 - Definitions for class I and class II controlled substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... sell one (1) kilogram of class I, Group VI controlled substances from inventory produced or imported... for pre-plant uses means the privilege granted by this subpart to produce or import one (1) kilogram... substance at a destruction efficiency of 98 percent or greater, using one of the destruction technologies...

Minimization of a Class of Matrix Trace Functions by Means of Refined Majorization.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kiers, Henk A. L.; ten Berge, Jos M. F.

1992-01-01

A procedure is described for minimizing a class of matrix trace functions, which is a refinement of an earlier procedure for minimizing the class of matrix trace functions using majorization. Several trial analyses demonstrate that the revised procedure is more efficient than the earlier majorization-based procedure. (SLD)

A fast learning method for large scale and multi-class samples of SVM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Yu; Guo, Huiming

2017-06-01

A multi-class classification SVM(Support Vector Machine) fast learning method based on binary tree is presented to solve its low learning efficiency when SVM processing large scale multi-class samples. This paper adopts bottom-up method to set up binary tree hierarchy structure, according to achieved hierarchy structure, sub-classifier learns from corresponding samples of each node. During the learning, several class clusters are generated after the first clustering of the training samples. Firstly, central points are extracted from those class clusters which just have one type of samples. For those which have two types of samples, cluster numbers of their positive and negative samples are set respectively according to their mixture degree, secondary clustering undertaken afterwards, after which, central points are extracted from achieved sub-class clusters. By learning from the reduced samples formed by the integration of extracted central points above, sub-classifiers are obtained. Simulation experiment shows that, this fast learning method, which is based on multi-level clustering, can guarantee higher classification accuracy, greatly reduce sample numbers and effectively improve learning efficiency.

Partial least squares density modeling (PLS-DM) - a new class-modeling strategy applied to the authentication of olives in brine by near-infrared spectroscopy.

PubMed

Oliveri, Paolo; López, M Isabel; Casolino, M Chiara; Ruisánchez, Itziar; Callao, M Pilar; Medini, Luca; Lanteri, Silvia

2014-12-03

A new class-modeling method, referred to as partial least squares density modeling (PLS-DM), is presented. The method is based on partial least squares (PLS), using a distance-based sample density measurement as the response variable. Potential function probability density is subsequently calculated on PLS scores and used, jointly with residual Q statistics, to develop efficient class models. The influence of adjustable model parameters on the resulting performances has been critically studied by means of cross-validation and application of the Pareto optimality criterion. The method has been applied to verify the authenticity of olives in brine from cultivar Taggiasca, based on near-infrared (NIR) spectra recorded on homogenized solid samples. Two independent test sets were used for model validation. The final optimal model was characterized by high efficiency and equilibrate balance between sensitivity and specificity values, if compared with those obtained by application of well-established class-modeling methods, such as soft independent modeling of class analogy (SIMCA) and unequal dispersed classes (UNEQ). Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Geodynamic and climate controls in the formation of Mio-Pliocene world-class oxidized cobalt and manganese ores in the Katanga province, DR Congo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Decrée, Sophie; Deloule, Étienne; Ruffet, Gilles; Dewaele, Stijn; Mees, Florias; Marignac, Christian; Yans, Johan; de Putter, Thierry

2010-10-01

The Katanga province, Democratic Republic of Congo, hosts world-class cobalt deposits accounting for ~50% of the world reserves. They originated from sediment-hosted stratiform copper and cobalt sulfide deposits within Neoproterozoic metasedimentary rocks. Heterogenite, the main oxidized cobalt mineral, is concentrated as “cobalt caps” along the top of silicified dolomite inselbergs. The supergene cobalt enrichment process is part of a regional process of residual ore formation that also forms world-class “manganese cap” deposits in western Katanga, i.e., the “black earths” that are exploited by both industrial and artisanal mining. Here, we provide constraints on the genesis and the timing of these deposits. Ar-Ar analyses of oxidized Mn ore and in situ U-Pb SIMS measurements of heterogenite yield Mio-Pliocene ages. The Ar-Ar ages suggest a multi-phase process, starting in the Late Miocene (10-5 Ma), when the metal-rich substratum was exposed to the action of meteoric fluids, due to major regional uplift. Further oxidation took place in the Pliocene (3.7-2.3 Ma) and formed most of the observed deposits under humid conditions: Co- and Mn-caps on metal-rich substrata, and coeval Fe laterites on barren areas. These deposits formed prior to the regional shift toward more arid conditions in Central Africa. Arid conditions still prevailed during the Quaternary and resulted in erosion and valley incision, which dismantled the metal-bearing caps and led to ore accumulation in valleys and along foot slopes.

Attitudes about high school physics in relationship to gender and ethnicity: A mixed method analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hafza, Rabieh Jamal

There is an achievement gap and lack of participation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) by minority females. The number of minority females majoring in STEM related fields and earning advanced degrees in these fields has not significantly increased over the past 40 years. Previous research has evaluated the relationship between self-identity concept and factors that promote the academic achievement as well the motivation of students to study different subject areas. This study examined the interaction between gender and ethnicity in terms of physics attitudes in the context of real world connections, personal interest, sense making/effort, problem solving confidence, and problem solving sophistication. The Colorado Learning Attitudes about Science Survey (CLASS) was given to 131 students enrolled in physics classes. There was a statistically significant Gender*Ethnicity interaction for attitude in the context of Real World Connections, Personal Interest, Sense Making/Effort, Problem Solving Confidence, and Problem Solving Sophistication as a whole. There was also a statistically significant Gender*Ethnicity interaction for attitude in the context of Real World Connections, Personal Interest, and Sense Making/Effort individually. Five Black females were interviewed to triangulate the quantitative results and to describe the experiences of minority females taking physics classes. There were four themes that emerged from the interviews and supported the findings from the quantitative results. The data supported previous research done on attitudes about STEM. The results reported that Real World Connections and Personal Interest could be possible factors that explain the lack of participation and achievement gaps that exists among minority females.

A Comparative Analysis between GaN-Based Current and Voltage Mode Class-D and E PAs for Communications

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-03-01

power level (5-10W) transmitters. The designs are analyzed and compared with respect to non-idealities such as bondwire effects and input signal duty...Hence, sub-optimum class- E/inverse class-E designs were implemented in this work and compared with respect to reduced duty cycle performance...inverse class E PA achieves 61.5% efficiency for medium power levels (37.7dBm) at 880MHz. The three designed PAs have been compared with respect to

Overcoming the Fundamental Bottlenecks to a new world-record silicon solar cell. Final Technical Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rohatgi, Ajeet; Zimbardi, Francesco; Rounsaville, Brian

The objective of the work performed within this contract is to reveal the materials and device physics that currently limit the experimental world record efficiency to 25% for single junction Si (2013), and to demonstrate 26.5% efficiency. The starting efficiency for this project was 23.9% in 2013. Four strategies are being combined throughout the project to achieve 26.5% cell efficiency: (1) passivated contacts via tunnel dielectrics, (2) emitter optimization and passivation through dopant profile engineering, (3) enhanced light trapping through development of photonic crystals and (4) base optimization.

An Exact Efficiency Formula for Holographic Heat Engines

DOE PAGES

Johnson, Clifford

2016-03-31

Further consideration is given to the efficiency of a class of black hole heat engines that perform mechanical work via the pdV terms present in the First Law of extended gravitational thermodynamics. It is noted that, when the engine cycle is a rectangle with sides parallel to the (p,V) axes, the efficiency can be written simply in terms of the mass of the black hole evaluated at the corners. Since an arbitrary cycle can be approximated to any desired accuracy by a tiling of rectangles, a general geometrical algorithm for computing the efficiency of such a cycle follows. Finally, amore » simple generalization of the algorithm renders it applicable to broader classes of heat engine, even beyond the black hole context.« less

The people side of MRP (materiel requirements planning).

PubMed

Lunn, T

1994-05-01

A montage of ideas and concepts have been successfully used to train and motivate people to use MRP II systems more effectively. This is important today because many companies are striving to achieve World Class Manufacturing status. Closed loop Materiel Requirements Planning (MRP) systems are an integral part of the process of continuous improvement. Successfully using a formal management planning system, such as MRP II, is a fundamental stepping stone on the path toward World Class Excellence. Included in this article are techniques that companies use to reduce lead time, simplify bills of materiel, and improve schedule adherence. These and other steps all depend on the people who use the system. The focus will be on how companies use the MRP tool more effectively.

World War II Mobilization in Men’s Work Lives: Continuity or Disruption for the Middle Class?1

PubMed Central

Dechter, Aimée R.; Elder, Glen H.

2016-01-01

The labor needs of World War II fueled a growing demand for both military and war industry personnel. This longitudinal study investigates mobilization into these competing activities and their work life effects among men from the middle class. Hazard estimates show significant differences in wartime activities across occupations, apart from other deferment criteria. By war’s end, critical employment, in contrast to military service, is positively associated with supervisory responsibility for younger men and with occupation change. This empoloyment does not predict postwar career advancement up to the 1970s. By comparison, men who were officers had a “pipeline” to advancement after the war, whereas other service men fared worse than nonveterans. PMID:27656001

75 FR 34520 - The Future of Aviation Advisory Committee (FAAC) Subcommittee on Labor and World-Class Workforce...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-17

...The Department of Transportation (DOT), Office of the Secretary of Transportation, announces a meeting of the FAAC Subcommittee on Labor and World-class Workforce, which will be held at 501 3rd Street NW., Washington, DC 20001. This notice announces the date, time, and location of the meeting, which will be open to the public. The purpose of the FAAC is to provide advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Transportation to ensure the competitiveness of the U.S. aviation industry and its capability to manage effectively the evolving transportation needs, challenges, and opportunities of the global economy. The Subcommittee is charged with ensuring the availability and quality of a workforce necessary to support a robust, expanding commercial aviation industry in light of the changing socio-economic dynamics of the world's technologically advanced economies. Among other matters, the Subcommittee will examine the future employment requirements of the aviation industry, its educational requirements, and the critical/technical skills that will be needed by our future aviation workforce.

High-Efficiency Microwave Power Amplifier

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sims, Williams H.

2005-01-01

A high-efficiency power amplifier that operates in the S band (frequencies of the order of a few gigahertz) utilizes transistors operating under class-D bias and excitation conditions. Class-D operation has been utilized at lower frequencies, but, until now, has not been exploited in the S band. Nominally, in class D operation, a transistor is switched rapidly between "on" and "off" states so that at any given instant, it sustains either high current or high voltage, but not both at the same time. In the ideal case of zero "on" resistance, infinite "off" resistance, zero inductance and capacitance, and perfect switching, the output signal would be a perfect square wave. Relative to the traditional classes A, B, and C of amplifier operation, class D offers the potential to achieve greater power efficiency. In addition, relative to class-A amplifiers, class-D amplifiers are less likely to go into oscillation. In order to design this amplifier, it was necessary to derive mathematical models of microwave power transistors for incorporation into a larger mathematical model for computational simulation of the operation of a class-D microwave amplifier. The design incorporates state-of-the-art switching techniques applicable only in the microwave frequency range. Another major novel feature is a transmission-line power splitter/combiner designed with the help of phasing techniques to enable an approximation of a square-wave signal (which is inherently a wideband signal) to propagate through what would, if designed in a more traditional manner, behave as a more severely band-limited device (see figure). The amplifier includes an input, a driver, and a final stage. Each stage contains a pair of GaAs-based field-effect transistors biased in class D. The input signal can range from -10 to +10 dBm into a 50-ohm load. The table summarizes the performances of the three stages

NASA World Wind: A New Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hogan, P.; Gaskins, T.; Bailey, J. E.

2008-12-01

Virtual Globes are well into their first generation, providing increasingly rich and beautiful visualization of more types and quantities of information. However, they are still mostly single and proprietary programs, akin to a web browser whose content and functionality are controlled and constrained largely by the browser's manufacturer. Today Google and Microsoft determine what we can and cannot see and do in these programs. NASA World Wind started out in nearly the same mode, a single program with limited functionality and information content. But as the possibilities of virtual globes became more apparent, we found that while enabling a new class of information visualization, we were also getting in the way. Many users want to provide World Wind functionality and information in their programs, not ours. They want it in their web pages. They want to include their own features. They told us that only with this kind of flexibility, could their objectives and the potential of the technology be truly realized. World Wind therefore changed its mission: from providing a single information browser to enabling a whole class of 3D geographic applications. Instead of creating one program, we create components to be used in any number of programs. World Wind is NASA open source software. With the source code being fully visible, anyone can readily use it and freely extend it to serve any use. Imagery and other information provided by the World Wind servers is also free and unencumbered, including the server technology to deliver geospatial data. World Wind developers can therefore provide exclusive and custom solutions based on user needs.

Intelligent Tutoring Systems by and for the Developing World: A Review of Trends and Approaches for Educational Technology in a Global Context

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nye, Benjamin D.

2015-01-01

As information and communication technology access expands in the developing world, learning technologies have the opportunity to play a growing role to enhance and supplement strained educational systems. Intelligent tutoring systems (ITS) offer strong learning gains, but are a class of technology traditionally designed for most-developed…

A Bibliography of Basic Books on Atomic Energy, A World of the Atom Series Booklet.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Atomic Energy Commission, Washington, DC.

This booklet in the "World of the Atom" Series replaces the earlier Books on Atomic Energy for Adults and Children. It includes annotated bibliographies for children (grade level indicated) and adults. Over 60 books are classed as elementary and over 70 as advanced. These are alphabetized by title and also indexed by author. A list of…

World War II Activity Day: Through the Eyes of Trainee Treachers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clark, Emily; Hornsby, Laura; Howard, Abigail; Pople, Kathryn

2013-01-01

As student teachers, authors Emily Clark, Laura Hornsby, Abigail Howard, and Kathryn Pople were aware of what the class had already covered on World War 2 (WW2). It was unclear to them, however, what knowledge the children actually had acquired from the lessons. In this article these student teachers describe their use of concept mapping as they…

Transformative Pedagogy, Leadership and School Organisation for the Twenty-First-Century Knowledge-Based Economy: The Case of Singapore

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dimmock, Clive; Goh, Jonathan W. P.

2011-01-01

Singapore has a high performing school system; its students top international tests in maths and science. Yet while the Singapore government cherishes its world class "brand", it realises that in a globally competitive world, its schools need to prepare students for the twenty-first-century knowledge-based economy (KBE). Accordingly,…

The Development of a Small-World Network of Higher Education Students, Using a Large-Group Problem-Solving Method

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sousa, Fernando Cardoso; Monteiro, Ileana Pardal; Pellissier, René

2014-01-01

This article presents the development of a small-world network using an adapted version of the large-group problem-solving method "Future Search." Two management classes in a higher education setting were selected and required to plan a project. The students completed a survey focused on the frequency of communications before and after…

The generic world-sheet action of irrational conformal field theory

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Clubok, K.; Halpern, M.B.

1995-05-01

We review developments in the world-sheet action formulation of the generic irrational conformal field theory, including the non-linear and the linearized forms of the action. These systems form a large class of spin-two gauged WZW actions which exhibit exotic gravitational couplings. Integrating out the gravitational field, we also speculate on a connection with sigma models.

Oceans and Coasts. Teacher's Guide to World Resources. Comprehensive Coursework on the Global Environment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Snyder, Sarah A.

This teacher's guide presents teaching suggestions and presentation materials about the world's oceans and the important role humans play in maintaining the life and health of the oceans. The lesson is divided into five parts and can be taught in one class period or divided into segments. Student handouts include: (1) "Facts about Oceans and…

Le monde des affaires (The Business World). Teacher's Guide [and] Student's Book.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Laing, Martha; Ullmann, Rebecca

The two components of this publication are the student's book and the teacher's guide to the module, "The Business World" or "Le monde des affaires," which would be suitable for use in an advanced French course or in a class of business French. The teacher's book in French and English has four parts: (1) an explanation of the…

Increasing the Number of African American Students in Undergraduate Level Classes of Chinese: A Call to Action

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Li, Huiwen

2015-01-01

Chinese language is the only ideographic language remaining in the world (Osaka, 1976). It conveys affluent Chinese culture and has great influences on the East Asian countries (Miyake, 2013). In the economic globalization of the world, China's economy and international influence are expanding. For these reasons and many more the Chinese language…

A World of Opportunity: Postsecondary Training and Education for All

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carnevale, Anthony

2008-01-01

For most of the 20th century, high school was enough for a shot at middle-class status and wages. Eventually high school was surpassed by postsecondary education as the preferred route to professional and managerial jobs in the post-World War II era. This article describes how today, young workers rarely go anywhere in the American job market…

When "Teaching a Class of Daemons, Dragons and Trainee Teachers"--Learning the Pedagogy of the Virtual Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woollard, John

2012-01-01

Virtual worlds can offer opportunities to further extend the experience, skills and understanding of professionals, in this case pre-service teachers. Based on the empirical evidence provided by professional, pre-service teachers, this paper describes the social and emotional aspects of being and learning in a virtual world and the implications…

Less Developed Countries (LDCs) Facing Higher Education Curricula Reform Challenges in a "New World (Dis)Order"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilder, Eric

2011-01-01

In a previous article for "EJHE," I detailed Curricula Reform (CR) efforts in Higher Education (HE) in four (relatively) well developed regional and national settings (The EU, the USA, Hong Kong SAR China, and Singapore). I detailed the backdrop motivating the moves by policymakers to reform the curricula in such "world class"…

Creating Hybrid Spaces for Engaging School Science among Urban Middle School Girls

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barton, Angela Calabrese; Tan, Edna; Rivet, Ann

2008-01-01

The middle grades are a crucial time for girls in making decisions about how or if they want to follow science trajectories. In this article, the authors report on how urban middle school girls enact meaningful strategies of engagement in science class in their efforts to merge their social worlds with the worlds of school science and on the…

Optimizing the Nation's Investment in Academic Research: A New Regulatory Framework for the 21st Century

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Academies Press, 2016

2016-01-01

Research universities are critical contributors to our national research enterprise. They are the principal source of a world-class labor force and fundamental discoveries that enhance our lives and the lives of others around the world. These institutions help to create an educated citizenry capable of making informed and crucial choices as…

The Power of a Woman's Story: A Three-Step Approach to Historical Significance in High School World History

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kohlmeier, Jada

2005-01-01

The author's ninth grade world history students communicated the connection they felt to three women whose stories they evaluated in class. The women represented ordinary people living during time periods being studied, and their personal stories demonstrated how the political, economic and cultural events had an impact on people in unique and…

Improving the Status of Women in the Third World: A Challenge to Adult Educators.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clark, Elmer J.

Adult educators face a challenge if they are to aid in the improvement of the status of women in the Third World. Women in developing countries, especially those in rural and poverty areas, are often restricted to second class educational and work opportunities. Adult educators could contribute to the reduction of such discrimination in the…

Crossing Cultures--Third World Women. A Book of Materials, Activities, and Ideas for the Classroom Teacher.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Valiant, Sharon

This resource bibliography includes and briefly discusses activities and instructional materials on the lives of women in the non-European/non-white world, suitable for use in elementary and secondary school rooms. The books, films, and other materials give a sampling of ideas and contributions often overlooked in middle-class America (for…

An Exploration of Higher Education Teaching in Second Life in the Context of Blended Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ata, Ridvan

2016-01-01

This study explores teaching experiences of educators within the virtual world of Second Life (SL) and pedagogical practices adopted. A blended approach is applied by using physical classrooms, BlackboardTM, web-based resources, and the virtual world of SL in an Information Literacy (IL) class for 1st year undergraduate students at an institution…

Graphite Girls in a Gigabyte World: Managing the World Wide Web in 700 Square Feet

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ogletree, Tamra; Saurino, Penelope; Johnson, Christie

2009-01-01

Our action research project examined the on-task and off-task behaviors of university-level student, use of wireless laptops in face-to-face classes in order to establish rules of wireless laptop etiquette in classroom settings. Participants in the case study of three university classrooms included undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students.…

The Impact of Globalization and Technology on Teaching Business Communication: Reframing and Enlarging World View, Methods, and Content

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Berry, Priscilla

2013-01-01

This paper explores the current paradigm shift in the use of technology in the classroom, which is occurring because of technology explosion in society, impact of globalization, necessary reframing, and enlarging of the world view, methods, and content to make business communication classes relevant. The question is whether the classroom should…

Lines in Space: A Minimalist Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Greenwood, Nate

2011-01-01

With all the noise in the world, the flotsam and jetsam sensory input from the media, from friends, from family, from life, it is an arduous task to have students slow things down and focus on the simple, raw elements of their world. Specifically related to art class, the challenge is how to help students digest the work of Minimalist artists. In…

"I Live in Tuuk-SON": Rethinking the Contexts of Language Learning along the Mexico-U.S. Border

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ullman, Char

2010-01-01

In language teaching, context is everything. English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teachers must learn about the worlds in which the students they teach use English. The teachers often inhabit worlds that are very different from the ones students know, because of the ways in which class, race, gender, ethnicity, education, and legal…

Use of World Wide Web Server and Browser Software To Support a First-Year Medical Physiology Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davis, Michael J.; And Others

1997-01-01

Describes the use of a World Wide Web server to support a team-taught physiology course for first-year medical students. The students' evaluations indicate that computer use in class made lecture material more interesting, while the online documents helped reinforce lecture materials and textbooks. Lists factors which contribute to the…

Single Amino Acid Residue in the A2 Domain of Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I Is Involved in the Efficiency of Equine Herpesvirus-1 Entry*

PubMed Central

Sasaki, Michihito; Kim, Eunmi; Igarashi, Manabu; Ito, Kimihito; Hasebe, Rie; Fukushi, Hideto; Sawa, Hirofumi; Kimura, Takashi

2011-01-01

Equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), an α-herpesvirus of the family Herpesviridae, causes respiratory disease, abortion, and encephalomyelitis in horses. EHV-1 utilizes equine MHC class I molecules as entry receptors. However, hamster MHC class I molecules on EHV-1-susceptible CHO-K1 cells play no role in EHV-1 entry. To identify the MHC class I molecule region that is responsible for EHV-1 entry, domain exchange and site-directed mutagenesis experiments were performed, in which parts of the extracellular region of hamster MHC class I (clone C5) were replaced with corresponding sequences from equine MHC class I (clone A68). Substitution of alanine for glutamine at position 173 (Q173A) within the α2 domain of the MHC class I molecule enabled hamster MHC class I C5 to mediate EHV-1 entry into cells. Conversely, substitution of glutamine for alanine at position 173 (A173Q) in equine MHC class I A68 resulted in loss of EHV-1 receptor function. Equine MHC class I clone 3.4, which possesses threonine at position 173, was unable to act as an EHV-1 receptor. Substitution of alanine for threonine at position 173 (T173A) enabled MHC class I 3.4 to mediate EHV-1 entry into cells. These results suggest that the amino acid residue at position 173 of the MHC class I molecule is involved in the efficiency of EHV-1 entry. PMID:21949188

Electric Propulsion Platforms at DFRC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baraaclough, Jonathan

2009-01-01

NASA Dryden Flight Research Center is a world-class flight research facility located at Edwards AFB, CA. With access to a 44 sq. mile dry lakebed and 350 testable days per year, it is the ideal location for flight research. DFRC has been undertaking aircraft research for approximately six decades including the famous X-aircraft (X-1 through X-48) and many science and exploration platforms. As part of this impressive heritage, DFRC has garnered more hours of full-sized electric aircraft testing than any other facility in the US, and possibly the world. Throughout the 80 s and 90 s Dryden was the home of the Pathfinder, Pathfinder Plus, and Helios prototype solar-electric aircraft. As part of the ERAST program, these electric aircraft achieved a world record 97,000 feet altitude for propeller-driven aircraft. As a result of these programs, Dryden s staff has collected thousands of man-hours of electric aircraft research and testing. In order to better answer the needs of the US in providing aircraft technologies with lower fuel consumption, lower toxic emissions (NOx, CO, VOCs, etc.), lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and lower noise emissions, NASA has engaged in cross-discipline research under the Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD). As a part of this overall effort, Mark Moore of LaRC has initiated a cross-NASA-center electric propulsion working group (EPWG) to focus on electric propulsion technologies as applied to aircraft. Electric propulsion technologies are ideally suited to overcome all of the obstacles mentioned above, and are at a sufficiently advanced state of development component-wise to warrant serious R&D and testing (TRL 3+). The EPWG includes participation from NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC), Glenn Research Center (GRC), Ames Research Center (ARC), and Dryden Flight Research Center (DFRC). Each of the center participants provides their own unique expertise to support the overall goal of advancing the state-of-the-art in aircraft electric propulsion technologies. DFRC will leverage its vast experience in flight test to assist in the integration and flight test phases of any electric propulsion program. DFRC s core competencies, that have particular relevance to the goals of the EPWG, include flight research planning and execution and providing aircraft test beds for researching and testing electric propulsion concepts and equipment. There are three flight regimes that the EPWG is focusing on: subsonic small GA and UAV, subsonic transport class, and supersonic. DFRC proposes two classes of test bed aircraft, to answer the early- and mid-phase testing requirements of all flight regimes the EPWG is concerned with. First, a highly efficient PIK motor glider will be used to test concepts and equipment associated with the subsonic GA and UAV aircraft regime (N+1). Second, a small fleet of subscale remotely-piloted aircraft test beds, similar to the X48B Blended Wing Body aircraft tested at Dryden, will be developed to answer the unique testing requirements of the subsonic GA and UAV, subsonic transport and possibly the supersonic class of aircraft (N+2, N+3). These aircraft can be tested in either serial stages or concurrent stages, depending on the actual test requirements and program schedules. Both classes of test bed aircraft are described below.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Barty, C J

A renaissance in nuclear physics is occurring around the world because of a new kind of incredibly bright, gamma-ray light source that can be created with short pulse lasers and energetic electron beams. These highly Mono-Energetic Gamma-ray (MEGa-ray) sources produce narrow, laser-like beams of incoherent, tunable gamma-rays and are enabling access and manipulation of the nucleus of the atom with photons or so called 'Nuclear Photonics'. Just as in the early days of the laser when photon manipulation of the valence electron structure of the atom became possible and enabling to new applications and science, nuclear photonics with laser-based gamma-raymore » sources promises both to open up wide areas of practical isotope-related, materials applications and to enable new discovery-class nuclear science. In the United States, the development of high brightness and high flux MEGa-ray sources is being actively pursued at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Livermore (LLNL), California near San Francisco. The LLNL work aims to create by 2013 a machine that will advance the state of the art with respect to source the peak brightness by 6 orders of magnitude. This machine will create beams of 1 to 2.3 MeV photons with color purity matching that of common lasers. In Europe a similar but higher photon energy gamma source has been included as part of the core capability that will be established at the Extreme Light Infrastructure Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP) facility in Magurele, Romania outside of Bucharest. This machine is expected to have an end point gamma energy in the range of 13 MeV. The machine will be co-located with two world-class, 10 Petawatt laser systems thus allowing combined intense-laser and gamma-ray interaction experiments. Such capability will be unique in the world. In this talk, Dr. Chris Barty from LLNL will review the state of the art with respect to MEGa-ray source design, construction and experiments and will describe both the ongoing projects around the world as well some of the exciting applications that these machines will enable. The optimized interaction of short-duration, pulsed lasers with relativistic electron beams (inverse laser-Compton scattering) is the key to unrivaled MeV-scale photon source monochromaticity, pulse brightness and flux. In the MeV spectral range, such Mono-Energetic Gamma-ray (MEGa-ray) sources can have many orders of magnitude higher peak brilliance than even the world's largest synchrotrons. They can efficiently perturb and excite the isotope-specific resonant structure of the nucleus in a manner similar to resonant laser excitation of the valence electron structure of the atom.« less

Fabrication of Very High Efficiency 5.8 GHz Power Amplifiers using AlGaN HFETs on SiC Substrates for Wireless Power Transmission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sullivan, Gerry

2001-01-01

For wireless power transmission using microwave energy, very efficient conversion of the DC power into microwave power is extremely important. Class E amplifiers have the attractive feature that they can, in theory, be 100% efficient at converting, DC power to RF power. Aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN) semiconductor material has many advantageous properties, relative to silicon (Si), gallium arsenide (GaAs), and silicon carbide (SiC), such as a much larger bandgap, and the ability to form AlGaN/GaN heterojunctions. The large bandgap of AlGaN also allows for device operation at higher temperatures than could be tolerated by a smaller bandgap transistor. This could reduce the cooling requirements. While it is unlikely that the AlGaN transistors in a 5.8 GHz class E amplifier can operate efficiently at temperatures in excess of 300 or 400 C, AlGaN based amplifiers could operate at temperatures that are higher than a GaAs or Si based amplifier could tolerate. Under this program, AlGaN microwave power HFETs have been fabricated and characterized. Hybrid class E amplifiers were designed and modeled. Unfortunately, within the time frame of this program, good quality HFETs were not available from either the RSC laboratories or commercially, and so the class E amplifiers were not constructed.

A Case Study of the In-Class Use of a Video Game for Teaching High School History

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Watson, William R.; Mong, Christopher J.; Harris, Constance A.

2011-01-01

This study examines the case of a sophomore high school history class where "Making History", a video game designed with educational purposes in mind, is used in the classroom to teach about World War II. Data was gathered using observation, focus group and individual interviews, and document analysis. The high school was a rural school…

SPArking Interest in the Long Noncoding RNA World: A New Class of 5' SnoRNA-Stabilized LncRNA that Influences Alternative Splicing.

PubMed

Li, Ruohan; Fox, Archa H

2016-11-03

Delving deeply into the locus deleted in Prader-Willi syndrome, in this issue of Molecular Cell, Wu et al. (2016) identify SPA RNAs, a new class of 5' snoRNA-capped lncRNAs that sequester RNA binding proteins and influence alternative splicing. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

"Did We Learn English or What?": A Study Abroad Student in the UK Carrying and Crossing Boundaries in Out-of-Class Communication

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Badwan, Khawla M.

2017-01-01

Language educators in many parts of the world are torn between preparing language learners to pass language proficiency tests and trying to let their classrooms reflect the messiness of out-of-class communication. Because testing is "an activity which perhaps more than any other dictates what is taught" (Hall, 2014, p. 379), helping…

Globescope: Student Involvement in Culture Trait Studies as Part of the Social Studies Curriculum in Grades 5-12.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peters, Richard

The program described in this guide provides a method of researching and comparing diverse cultures for middle and high school students. Teams of students investigate cultures from around the world and present findings to the entire class. The team approach enables the class to be exposed to a variety of materials and gives students experience in…

What's in Your Back Pack? Three Essential Items for Survival in the Tough and Changing World of Campus Construction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

del Monte, Rick

2009-01-01

As students know, the tools in their backpacks can influence success. If they are off to math class, a good calculator is essential. When on their way to English class, a laptop is fundamental. Building facility executives too have tools in their backpacks to assure the successful creation of educational buildings. Only their tools are…

Perspectives. Teacher's Guide [and] Reflections of History [and] From Cottages to Corporations [and] World War I, The Home Front [and] The Great Depression.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Procter & Gamble Co., Cincinnati, OH.

This publication includes a teacher's guide and four self-contained teaching units of primary source materials for use in secondary U.S. history, government, and sociology classes. Each unit, designed as supplemental material for one or two class periods, contains historical public records and documents from Procter and Gamble's archives and…

What's Going on in Gym: Descriptive Studies of Physical Education Classes. Monograph 1. Motor Skills: Theory into Practice.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, William G., Ed.; Barrette, Gary T., Ed.

This monograph reports on the establishment of a videotape data bank designed to record activities in physical education classes for analyzing and describing teacher and student behaviors. The process of obtaining approximately 80 tapes of elementary and high schools classes and of developing procedures for efficiently describing what was…

Transcription and translation in an RNA world

PubMed Central

Taylor, William R

2006-01-01

The RNA world hypothesis requires a ribozyme that was an RNA-directed RNA polymerase (ribopolymerase). If such a replicase makes a reverse complementary copy of any sequence (including itself), in a simple RNA world, there is no mechanism to prevent self-hybridization. It is proposed that this can be avoided through the synthesis of a parallel complementary copy. The logical consequences of this are pursued and developed in a computer simulation, where the behaviour of the parallel copy is compared to the conventional reverse complementary copy. It is found that the parallel copy is more efficient at higher temperatures (up to 90°C). A model for the ribopolymerase, based on the core of the large subunit (LSU) of the ribosome, is described. The geometry of a potential active site for this ribopolymerase suggests that it contained a cavity (now occupied by the aminoacyl-tRNA) and that an amino acid binding in this might have ‘poisoned’ the ribopolymerase by cross-reacting with the nucleoside-triphosphate before polymerization could occur. Based on a similarity to the active site components of the class-I tRNA synthetase enzymes, it is proposed that the amino acid could become attached to the nascent RNA transcript producing a variety of aminoacylated tRNA-like products. Using base-pairing interactions, some of these molecules might cross-link two ribopolymerases, giving rise to a precursor of the modern ribosome. A hybrid dimer, half polymerase and half proto-ribosome, could account for mRNA translocation before the advent of protein elongation factors. PMID:17008216

The World Soil Museum: education and advocacy on soils of the world

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mantel, Stephan; Land, Hiske

2013-04-01

The World Soil Museum (WSM) in Wageningen, is part of ISRIC World Soil Information and was founded in 1966 on request of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the International Soil Science Society. The World Soil Museum has a collection of over 1100 soil profiles from more than 70 countries. This soil profiles are vertical sections and show the composition, layering and structure of the soil. The collection is unique in the world and includes a significant number of soil profiles from the Netherlands. The Dutch soil collection is important for serving broader visitor groups, as some visitors, such as secondary school classes, are specifically interested in the Dutch landscape and soils. Broadly speaking, the World Soil Museum has five functions: (i) education and courses, (ii) research, (iii) information and edutainment, (iv) social function, and (v) a real museum function (Art). The World Soil Museum (World Soil Museum) is well known in national and international circles soil and the English name has almost 1,000 references on the Internet. The World Soil Museum is visited by about 1000 people a year, mainly university and college students from Western Europe. Other visitor groups that have found their way to the museum are students from disciplines broader then soil science, such as geography and rural development. Secondary school classes visit the museum for geography classes. The uniqueness and the value of the collection of soil profiles (soil monoliths) and associated collections, such as soil samples, hand pieces, thin sections, slides, is emphasized by the fact ISRIC is the only World Data Centre for Soils (WDC-Soils) within the World Data System of the International Council of Science (ICSU). The collection provides an insight in and overview of the diversity of soils in the world, their properties and their limitations and possibilities for use. A new building is under construction for the WSM, which is expected to be ready mid-2013. The location is appropriately placed on the Wageningen University Campus, close to the students and research centres of the University. The new exposition space will provide new opportunities for serving different visitor groups. The selection of about 80 soil monoliths representing the world's soils will be maintained in the new exposition. In addition, interactive displays will support education. A circular, interactive map of the world will be placed centrally in the exposition and will serve as a portal to the soil information. The map data refer to the monoliths on the walls and vice versa. Around the central map six theme stations communicate current topics that show the relevance of soil in different fields. For the general public it will explain the principles of soil formation and it will show the relevance to actual issues like food production and climate change. High school students in their final years can come here for work assignments and orientation days. Academic students and scientists, from both the Netherlands and other (mainly) northern European countries can continue to come to the WSM for education, study and research.

Game Analysis of Olympic, World and European Championships in Men's Handball.

PubMed

Bilge, Murat

2012-12-01

The development of men's handball was analyzed using data from the Olympic, World and European Championships held within the last eight years. The most obvious change, especially within these last nine tournaments, was that men's handball was played more dynamically and rapidly, both in attack and defense, especially by European teams. The first aim of this study was to conduct a technical analysis of current handball and to determine factors related to success in this sport discipline. The second aim was to compare the data of European Championships with other tournaments, considering the success of European teams in Men's World Handball. The technical variables used to compare the tournaments included: the average number of attacks, the efficiency of attacks, the efficiency of goal throws, fast break goals per game, the efficiency of fast breaks, the efficiency of the goalkeeper, saves by the goalkeeper per game, number of turnovers per game, and the efficiency of position throws (wing, pivot, back court, break-through, fast break, and 7-meter). This technical analysis used cumulative statistics from the European Handball Federation and International Handball Federation. ANOVA revealed significant differences between the first eight teams in the European Championships and their counterparts in the other two tournaments (Olympics and World Championships) in terms of several technical variables. The results showed that the efficiency of fast break, pivot position and back court players affected the ranking in favor of the European teams in significant international tournaments.