cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy Methods for Constructing Multi-Criteria Decision Functions

Summary form only given. Because of its ability to provide a bridge between linguistic expression and mathematical modeling fuzzy sets technology provides an idea framework for the construction of multi-criteria decision functions. In this talk we shall describe a number of aggregation operators associated with fuzzy set theory and see how they can be used to formulate multi-criteria decision functions. Particular attention was paid to formulating multi-criteria functions from linguistically specified user requirements.
Comparson of Landsat MSS and TM Data for Urban Land-Use Classification

A supervised classification of digital Landsat Multispectral Scanner (MSS) data for the Raleigh, North Carolina, metropolitan area was conducted in 1982. These data were categorized into 10 land-use/land-cover types representative of the area. Digital Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) data, for the Raleigh metropolitan area, were obtained in 1985 and analyzed for comparison to the MSS data. A stratified classification based upon principal components analysis was applied to the TM data, classifying the data into the 10 land-use/land-cover categories used in the analysis of the MSS data. Comparison of photo-interpreted land-use types and Landsat derived land-use types indicates that TM data provides significantly higher classification accuracies than can be obtained from MSS data. However, an increase in confusion between urban cover types was observed for the classified TM data over the MSS data. It is felt that the stratified classification approach was instrumental in reducing classification errors between general land-use/land-cover types such as urban areas, coniferous forests, and deciduous forests. It is not clear that the information extracted from the TM data regarding the urban environment will be of much more use to city planners than that obtained from MSS data.
Supporting Preservice Science Teachers' Ability to Attend and Respond to Student Thinking by Design

Author(s): Kang, H; Anderson, CW | Abstract: A teacher's ability to attend and respond to student thinking is a key instructional capacity for promoting complex and deeper learning in science classrooms. This qualitative multiple case study examines 14 preservice science teachers' (PSTs) responses to learning opportunities created to develop this capacity, as provided by a teacher preparation program. The PSTs engaged in multiple cycles of designing assessments and analyzing student work in coordination with clinical experiences in the field. Drawing upon the notions of responsiveness and noticing, we analyze teaching episodes for whether and how the PSTs in this study attended and responded to student thinking in instructional contexts. Several teaching episodes provide evidence of PSTs' productive responsiveness-suggesting modification in specific elements of instructional design to create better conditions for advancing students' scientific thinking. In general, however, the episodes suggest uneven success in PSTs' responses to student thinking. The findings point to two considerations in designing learning opportunities to enhance PSTs' responsiveness: (a) the use of high-quality assessment tasks that make student thinking visible and (b) helping PSTs to reframe the problems by deprivatizing PSTs' interpretations of student responses.
Multiobjective control of power converter in active hybrid fuel cell/battery power sources

Hybrid power sources composed of fuel cells and secondary batteries would combine the high energy density of fuel cells with the high power density of batteries. A DC-DC power converter could be placed between the fuel cell and the battery to balance the power flow, which would augment the peak output power greatly. This paper presents a novel multiobjective control strategy for the power converter in the hybrid power source. The control strategy is able to regulate the output current of the fuel cell and the charging current or voltage of the battery while limiting the discharging current of the battery. It can be used for two different configurations without any change. The control strategy is implemented in MATLAB/Simulink and tested by simulation and experiments. The results show that the multiobjective control strategy is able to select the regulation mode correctly and that the fuel cell current, the battery current and the battery voltage are regulated appropriately. Experiment results demonstrate the great flexibility and generality of the control strategy. Simulation and experiment results also show that power converter can be appropriately regulated to meet the multiple objectives required by hybrid power sources.
Design and Evaluation of 3D Multiple Object Selection Techniques

Few researchers have addressed the important issue of threedimensional multiple object selection (MOS) in immersive Virtual Environments (VEs). We have developed a taxonomy of the MOS task as a framework for exploring the design space of these techniques. In this paper, we describe four techniques for selecting multiple objects in immersive VEs. Of the four techniques, two are serial (where only one object can be indicated per operation), and two are parallel (where one or more objects may be indicated per operation). Within each of the two categories we also investigated two metaphors of interaction: a 3D spatial metaphor and the pen and tablet metaphor. Two usability studies were used to evaluate the four techniques, iterate their designs, and gain a deeper understanding of the design space of MOS techniques. The results from our studies show that parallel MOS techniques can be far more effective than serial techniques as the number of target objects increase. We also show that effective techniques for MOS in immersive VEs can be created using both pen and tablet and 3D metaphors.
Recent advances in the management of viral infections

The immunocompromised cancer patient is vulnerable to a wide spectrum of viral pathogens (Table 1). There has been increasing recognition of viruses as clinically important pathogens in cancer patients during the past decade. In part this is attributable to improved diagnostic techniques to better recognize viral pathogens as causes of illnesses not earlier recognized to be virally caused. In part this is also due to the increasing dose intensity of cytoreductive regimens used to control cancer, the increasing use of bone marrow transplantation (BMT) in the treatment of neoplastic diseases, and improvements in supportive care that permit patients to survive bacterial and fungal infections that in the past might have led to death before viral illness became manifest. Thus, there are greater numbers of highly immunosuppressed patients with severe compromise in cell-mediated immunity, the major host defense against most viral pathogens.
Genital Abnormalities and Abnormal Semen Analyses in Male Patients Exposed to Diethylstilbestrol in Utero

AbstractUrologic examination of 48 male patients exposed in utero to diethylstilbestrol showed genital abnormalities in 29. Only 33 per cent of the patients studied had normal semen analyses by Eliasson scoring. Genital abnormalities demonstrated included varicoceles, epididymal cysts, hypoplastic testes and undescended testes among others. None of the patients had elevations of alpha-fetoprotein or beta-subunit human chorionic gonadotropin. The high incidence of the aforementioned abnormalities suggests that all male patients exposed to diethylstilbestrol should undergo urologic examination and semen analysis. Additionally, a history of diethylstilbestrol exposure should be sought in all patients with apparent idiopathic infertility.
Microglia: Architects of the Developing Nervous System

Microglia are resident macrophages of the central nervous system (CNS), representing 5-10% of total CNS cells. Recent findings reveal that microglia enter the embryonic brain, take up residence before the differentiation of other CNS cell types, and become critical regulators of CNS development. Here, we discuss exciting new work implicating microglia in a range of developmental processes, including regulation of cell number and spatial patterning of CNS cells, myelination, and formation and refinement of neural circuits. Furthermore, we review studies suggesting that these cellular functions result in the modulation of behavior, which has important implications for a variety of neurological disorders.
Human service agencies and the question of impact: Lessons for theory, policy, and practice

Human service agencies are facing an environment in which demands for impact, effectiveness, and performance are rising faster than our knowledge about how to best to achieve those goals. Organizat...
MANUAL PERFORMANCE AND AROUSAL

Oltman (1964) presented evidence suggesting that physiological arousal may cause differences in field dependence. In his test, loud white noise was used to produce arousal. Wilkinson (1963) found that white noise interacts with knowledge of results to improve performance on a five-choice test of serial reaction. Predicting from these and other studies, i t was hypothesized that white noise would p r o d ~ ~ c e arousal and increase manual performance on the Minnesota Rate of Manipulation Test. Each of the 18 paid volunteers was given 300 trials on che Minnesota Rate of Manipulation Test. A trial consisted of a 5-sec. period during which S was to turn over as many blocks as possible using both hands. Whi te noise (100 d b & 1 d b ) was presented during half of che trials and was counterbalanced in an ABBA fashion. S was given a 2-min. break after every 100 trials. The mean number of blocks turned over by S in 150 trials during arousal was 1,756 while the mean number of blocks n ~ r n e d over without noise was 1,711. A t test for matched groups was in the direction of the hypothesis and was significant ( t = 7.5; p < ,001) . This significant t resulted from the fact that all but one of the 18 Ss produced differences in performance which were in the direction of the hypothesis. These results are from a series of s t ~ ~ d i e s which indicate thac arousal produced by white noise is not only associated with differences in field dependence and improve~nent in serial reaction, but also with a general improvement in motor performance.
FINAL FIVE-YEAR RESULTS OF THE PLATINUM RANDOMIZED TRIAL COMPARING PLATINUM CHROMIUM PROMUS ELEMENT AND COBALT CHROMIUM PROMUS/XIENCE V EVEROLIMUS-ELUTING STENTS IN WORKHORSE LESIONS

In the PLATINUM randomized controlled trial, the PROMUS Element Everolimus Eluting Stent (PtCr-EES) was non-inferior to the cobalt chromium PROMUS/XIENCE V EES (CoCr-EES) for the primary endpoint of 12-month target lesion failure (TLF; the composite rate of target vessel-related cardiac death,
Practical Applications of The Future of Empirical Finance

Overview Nowhere is the tension between theory and practice more apparent than in the financial markets. The tools of economic, statistical and financial analysis provide masses of data and elaborate frameworks for assessing risk, return, asset allocation and portfolio performance. But beware: Deeply flawed analytical methods can distort empirical results, warns Marcos Lopez de Prado of Guggenheim Partners and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. He addresses some of the misperceptions surrounding empirical finance and offers suggestions to establish firmer ground for research.
Beyond KIT in CBF-AML: chromatin and cohesin

In this issue of Blood , Duployez et al present results from mutational profiling of >200 patients with core binding factor acute myeloid leukemia (CBF-AML). The identified mutational landscape is likely to have clinical relevance and hints at intriguing biological distinctions between these seemingly similar malignancies that will offer deep insights into the aberrant regulatory networks critical for leukemia development. 1
Results of Reoperation for Recurrent Esophagitis Following a Previous Antireflux Procedure

In 1951, Allison hypothesized that the symptoms then attributed to hiatus hernia were actually secondary to gastroesophageal reflux [1]. Appreciation of this principle led to the development of procedures that effectively control gastroesophageal reflux. However, all of these procedures have a failure rate of 5%–10%, and thus there are a large number of patients who are candidates for reoperation.
Primary Prevention Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators in Patients With Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy: A Meta-analysis

Importance Conflicting data have emerged on the efficacy of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death (primary prevention ICDs) in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy. Objective To investigate the association of primary prevention ICDs with all-cause mortality in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy. Data Sources PubMed was searched from January 1, 2000, through October 31, 2016, for the terms implantable defibrillator OR implantable cardioverter defibrillator AND non-ischemic cardiomyopathy . Additional references were identified from bibliographies of pertinent articles and queries to experts in this field. Study Selection Inclusion criteria consisted of a randomized clinical trial design and comparison of the ICD with medical therapy (control) in at least 100 patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy. In addition, studies had to report on all-cause mortality during a follow-up period of at least 12 months and be published in English. The search yielded 10 studies, of which only 1 met the inclusion criteria. A search of bibliographies of pertinent articles and queries of experts in this field led to 3 additional studies. Data Extraction and Synthesis The PRISMA guidelines were used to abstract data and assess data quality and validity. Data were pooled using fixed- and random-effects models. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary end point was all-cause mortality. Before data collection started, primary prevention ICDs were hypothesized to reduce all-cause mortality among patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy. Results Four randomized clinical trials met the selection criteria and included 1874 unique patients; 937 were in the ICD group and 937 in the control group. Pooling data from these trials showed a significant reduction in all-cause mortality with an ICD (hazard ratio, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.61-0.93; P = .008; P = .87 for heterogeneity). Conclusions and Relevance Primary prevention ICDs are efficacious at reducing all-cause mortality among patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy. These findings support professional guidelines that recommend the use of ICDs in such patients.
Idols of Promotion: The Triumph of Self-Branding in the Social Media Age

YouTube stars, Instagram influencers, and other social media personalities have achieved an elevated status in the popular imagination. This work-in-progress situates the valourization of digital fame in a socio-historical context, invoking critical theorist Leo Lowenthal's [20] "mass idols" framework. Examining the content of magazine biographies in the decades preceding World War II, Lowenthal identified a marked shift in cultural exemplars of success: from self-made entrepreneurs, politicians, and other "Idols of Production"---to the stars of cinema and sports, "Idols of Consumption." As an extension of Lowenthal's analysis, we examine contemporary magazine biographies (in People and Time) and self-authored social media bios (on Instagram and Twitter). Based on a preliminary analysis of the magazine content and social-media profiles---including the crucial shift to self-authorship---we outline a new generation of what we call "Idols of Promotion." These digitally networked public figures, we argue, straddle the realms of production and consumption as they labor to create and project a distinctive self-brand. We identify three key tropes that shape narrativizations of idols in the social media age: (1) a spirit of self-enterprise that crosses industry boundaries; (2) a promise of meritocracy; and (3) a call to express oneself authentically. After examining these tropes, we conclude with an examination of their ideological function: such mediated hero-worship, we contend, indexes larger anxieties about the individualization of work amidst a precarious economy.
Development and characterization of a high quality plum tomato essence

Abstract A tomato essence was developed for potential flavor enhancement of juices and other tomato products. The changes in the flavor profile that occur during tomato processing in plum tomatoes were characterized and compared using purge and trap gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (PT-GC–MS). The pilot tomato juices mostly suffered losses in green and fruity note-related compounds. Of the four essence fractions produced, Fractions 1 and 2 were most complementary to the undesirable flavor changes encountered during thermal processing. Fraction 1 was characterized as a “green tomato note”, with substantially higher amounts of 2-isobutylthiazole, α-citral, hexanal, 3-hexen-1-ol, and 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one; Fraction 2 was described as a “fruity tomato note” with relatively percentage change of compounds; and Fractions 3 and 4 were described as “cooked tomato note” and “faint tomato note”, respectively. These results demonstrate the feasibility of adding tomato essence to impart desirable flavor attributes to processed tomato products.
Shareholder Elections of Audit Committee Members

SUMMARY Voting in directors' elections is one of few mechanisms by which shareholders can influence corporate governance choices. We study elections of directors who serve on the audit committee (A...
Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Characterization of Salt Induced Aggregation of Gold Nanoparticles

Low frequency (<300 cm-1) vibrational interactions between gold surfaces and dissolved halides in water were investigated by surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Experiments with NaF, NaCl, NaBr, and NaI salts indicate that the Raman shifts of the Au-X- SERS bands correlate with the bond-strength of the corresponding covalent interaction. These low frequency SERS bands open up new means to investigate the aggregation of nanoparticles in aqueous environments.
A meta-analysis with examination of moderators of student cognition, affect, and learning outcomes while using serious educational games, serious games, and simulations

Educational games and simulations provide teachers with powerful tools for teaching students in the sciences. Within the broad category of educational gaming, there are several types of games to include Serious Educational Games (SEG), Educational Simulations (ES), and Serious Games (SG). The purpose of this meta-analysis is to characterize and compare outcomes related to serious educational games, serious games, and educational simulations as they are presented in the educational literature. Specifically the authors intend to fill gaps left by previous studies, include major finding, and assess the current state of the field related to the use of these innovative technologies. The results of this study are in line with previous studies suggesting higher cognitive gains and increases in positive affective toward learning from subjects using SEGs, SGs, and ES. Effects were calculated from 46 empirical experimental studies. The examined studies suggest that ES, SGs, and SEGs do not differ in a statistically significant way when compared to traditional instruction but do differ from each other. More to this point, effect size outcomes are suggestive of a cumulative medium effect for cognition (d=.67) and affect (d=.51) with a small effect for behavior (d=.04). Three-dimensional games provide the greatest effect.Effects do not seem to persist in the university and above level.Greatest effect for games is seen in the development of skills.SEGs are more effective in increasing outcomes than SGs and simulations.
Persistence of organizational identity within interorganizational relationships

As the emphasis on interorganizational relationships increases, one fear expressed by nonprofits is that interorganizational cooperation would lead them away from their sense of mission. The concern about loss of identity prompted this research into whether, and if so, how, a community action agency embedded in many relationships with other organizations continually and increasingly maintains a sense of identity. A study of the words used to describe the organization across time and across organizational members, leaders, and members of the board yielded strong agreement on some of the organization’s characteristics. The implications of this type of organizational culture for leaders of nonprofits is then described.
A Family-Centered Intervention for Grieving Preschool Children

The components of a family-centered intervention model for grieving preschool children are presented. Grief groups, play therapy, and filial therapy are discussed with the rationale and goals for each modality. It was concluded that providing an integrated program designed to provide support for the grieving family has been effective not only in providing support but in empowering the parent to work with the child. Filial therapy as part of the intervention scheme can help the parent to restore and improve the parent-child bond following a loss so that together they can process the loss.
A Framework for the Assessment of Enjoyment in Video Games

We2 present an overview of current research in the measurement of enjoyment in video games. We attempt to systematize the disparate approaches found with the vocabulary and constructs of quasi-experimentation. In each area, we try to make some recommendations for improvement, and find some areas in need of further research.
Organic Chemistry Fundamentals

Before attempting to deal with other aspects of organic chemistry, it is necessary that the nomenclature (naming system) of chemistry be understood. Many organic chemicals have more than one name, an example being a particular type of alcohol containing three carbon atoms, which can be called any of the following five names: “isopropyl alcohol,” or “isopropanol,” or “secondary propyl alcohol,” or “sec-propanol,” or “2-propanol.”
α,β-Unsaturated Aldehydes Mediate Inducible Expression of Glutathione S-Transferase in Hepatoma Cells through Activation of the Antioxidant Response Element (ARE)

It is well established that during oxidative stress highly reactive, a,β-unsaturated aldehydes are prced from the β-scission of lipid alkoxy radicals formed from the reaction of carbon-centered radicals with molecular oxygen (Esterbauer et al, 1991; Schauer et al990). Four-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and other endogenous and exogenous aldehydes, such as malondialdehyde and acrolein, are also generated in response to a variety of oxidative stimuli including free intracellular iron (Fe2+) (Esterbauer et al, 1991), chronic ethanol (Ingelman-Sundberg and Johansson, 1984), and exposure to halogenated hydrocarbons (Poli et, 1985). The a,β-unsaturated configuration of these compounds allows them to undergo Michael addition chemistry resulting in the formation of covalent adducts with DNA and protein nucleophiles. The potential of these electrophilic aldehydes to target specific cellular nucelophiles is consistent with the deleterious effects of 4-HNE which includes inhibition of protein synthesis (White and Rees, 1984), disruption of Ca2+ homeostasis (Schauet al, 1990), and neutrophil chemotaxis (Curzio et al, 1987)
The Immune System of Vertebrates in Relation to Parasitic Infections

A complex system of cells and humoral substances protects the vertebrate organism against invading parasites, foreign materials of all kinds, and perhaps also against the abnormal cells that give rise to tumors and cancer. Some of these cells and substances have been known for a long time, such as macrophages, complement, and antibodies. Others, such as NK cells and the interleukins and interferons, have only recently been demonstrated. It is likely that still others remain to be discovered. Enough is known to show clearly that the system functions in two ways. First, it provides some measure of immediate protection, and this is effective against the great majority of invading organisms. This is a part of the mechanism of innate resistance. Second, it provides for a remarkable, greatly enhanced specific resistance against those parasites that evade the mechanisms of innate resistance and succeed in establishing themselves. This is acquired immunity. Depending on the nature and effectiveness of the acquired immunity and on the nature of the parasites’ further responses, a whole spectrum of associations becomes possible. At one extreme the acquired immunity is insufficient to control the parasite. If the parasite is a microorganism, it continues to multiply and destroys the host. If it is a metazoan parasite, such as a helminth, the extent of damage will depend in part on the number of worms to which the host is exposed. At the other extreme the acquired immunity quickly wipes out the parasite. In between are the most interesting situations. For example, some protozoan parasites persist at low levels for many years-they coexist with their host. Similarly, some helminths continue to live and produce eggs for many years in a host which nevertheless is immune to further infection by the invasive stages of worms of the same species.
Deamination reaction mechanisms of protonated amines under hydrothermal conditions

Abstract Many experimental studies report rates of decomposition for amino acids under hydrothermal conditions without describing the kinetics of competing reactions or definitively characterizing individual reaction mechanisms. As a step toward comprehensive models for amino acid reactivity, this study provides a detailed description of the organic reaction kinetics and mechanisms for deamination of amine functional groups at acidic hydrothermal conditions, which favors their protonated aminium forms. Time series experiments yield hydrothermal deamination rates for model aminum compounds benzylaminium (BAH+) and α-methylbenzylaminium (α-CH3-BAH+), buffered at pH 3.3 at 250 °C and 40 bar (Psat). Both compounds are primary amines, but the amine group in the former is bonded to a primary carbon while in the latter to a secondary carbon; this difference has implications for reactivity that are relevant for naturally occurring amines. Deamination of the aminiums under these conditions forms alcohols as the major primary products. The deamination mechanisms were investigated by determining the reaction kinetics of ring-substituted BAH+ and α-CH3-BAH+ derivatives, which provided information on the nature of charge buildup in the transition state. The results for the deamination of BAH+ to form benzyl alcohol support nearly equal contribution from two reaction mechanisms, specifically unimolecular nucleophilic substitution (SN1, kSN1 ≈ 2.4 × 10−6 s−1) and bimolecular nucleophilic substitution (SN2, kSN2 ≈ 2.7 × 10−6 s−1), while α-CH3-BAH+ deaminates almost exclusively via a much faster SN1 mechanism (kα ≈ 7.6 × 10−4 s−1). These observed rates reinforce the notion that previously reported amino acid deamination rates may have resulted from catalysis mechanisms associated with certain reaction vessel materials (e.g., Pyrex and stainless steel). The observation of two competing mechanisms for BAH+ deamination/hydration implies that extrapolation of deamination rates to other temperatures is currently unreliable, since this is likely to be accompanied by a change in the predominant mechanism. However, this work establishes that mechanistic contributions can be quantified, which will enhance the accuracy of extrapolating deamination rates across the temperature and pH ranges common to aqueous geochemical environments.
Analytical Optimization of a Litz Wire Spiral Coil Based Underwater IPT System

Inductive power transfer (IPT) is an important technology in the design of roadway and underwater vehicle charging systems. For underwater IPT (UWIPT) systems, especially for the ones with small coils and higher operating frequencies, it is important to get estimate of the seawater eddy current losses, which exponentially increase with coil size and frequency. This paper proposes an analytical approach to achieve it in terms of the coil eddy loss resistance for the widely used spiral coils made of litz wire. It also presents a method to optimize a UWIPT system using the analytical equations, so that time-consuming optimization through electromagnetic simulation can be avoided. Comparison between calculated, finite element simulation and experimental results of eddy loss resistance is used to validate the analysis. The optimization is presented through the example of a 1 kW system capable of achieving 96% magnetic coupling efficiency with 8 mm seawater gap. The design is validated through experiments with a dc voltage-input 1 kW IPT system, with 48 V input and 48 V output; achieving a magnetic coupling efficiency of 96.4%.
Barriers and solutions to improving nutrition among fire academy recruits: a qualitative assessment

The primary health concerns among US firefighters are cardiovascular disease, cancer, and depression and occur in an occupational setting where dietary habits are suboptimal. To understand if a diet or lifestyle modification works in a fire academy training setting, it is important to evaluate the cultural barriers and challenges that might be faced. A semi-structured telephone interview method followed by a focus group was used to gather common themes among fire service leaders. Twelve leaders participated in the telephonic interviews and a subset of five in the subsequent group session. Five main themes were identified. The study identified a need for staff and recruits to develop a cohesive culture that facilitates long-term change. Participants reported that incentives for good choices and the elimination of certain poor choices from the food environment would promote healthier choices. The study supports an intervention using education of fire recruits and modifications of the fire academy food environment.
Cracking the Black Box: Capturing the Role of Expectation States in Status Processes:

A fundamental task for sociology is to uncover the mechanisms that produce and reproduce social inequalities. While status characteristics theory is the favored account of how social status contrib...
Windows 2000 security: A postmortem analysis

Abstract Introduction After initially releasing Windows 2000 (W2K) in February 2000, Microsoft touted it as a secure operating system, one that was far improved over its predecessor, Windows NT(WNT). Yet even before Microsoft released W2K the software giant announced that it would release Service Pack 1 (SP1) for this operating system. The information security community immediately wondered whether the claims about the much improved security in W2K were true; many events and findings since then have reinforced this doubt. After a reign of three years as Microsoft's flagship operating system, last year Microsoft rolled out its newest server operating system, Windows Server 2003 (WS2003), signaling the end of an era for the W2K operating system. Windows XP (WXP) had already supplanted W2K Professional as the newest workstation operating system several years before. This is not to say that nobody uses W2K any more—to the contrary. But as W2K continues to increasingly take a proverbial back seat to newer Microsoft operating systems, now is a good time to take a retroactive look at W2K from a security viewpoint. Was it a success from a security perspective? What were its major failings and why? This paper addresses these issues.
Laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP) with laparoscopic partial distal colostomy mobilization for anorectal malformation with short colonic length distal to colostomy

A short length of colon distal to colostomy can make definitive repair of anorectal malformations a difficult procedure with high chances of complications. We describe our experience of using laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP) with distal colostomy mobilization for the management of these cases. All children who underwent LAARP along with mobilization of colostomy site in the last 3 years were included in the study. The demographic, clinical, radiological, and operative details along with immediate postoperative outcomes were reviewed. A total of five children with an age range of 5–21 months and weight range of 6.2–9.8 kg were included in the study. All children had recto-prostatic fistulas with distal colostomy contrast study showing a short length of the colon. The children were managed with LAARP along with mobilization of the distal end of the colostomy to gain a length of around 3–4 cm, which was sufficient for tension-free pull through. LAARP with laparoscopic mobilization of colostomy site should be considered in children with a short distal length of the colon.
Exploring the Association of Tiered Funding for Economic Development and Enrollment

In 2011, North Carolina implemented a tiered funding model for community colleges in an attempt to address program cost differentiation. In 2014, the funding model changed from a three-tiered model...
Real-Time Estimation of Microgrid Inertia and Damping Constant

The displacement of rotational generation and the consequent reduction in system inertia is expected to have major stability and reliability impacts on modern power systems. Fast-frequency support strategies using energy storage systems (ESSs) can be deployed to maintain the inertial response of the system, but information regarding the inertial response of the system is critical for the effective implementation of such control strategies. In this paper, a moving horizon estimation (MHE)-based approach for online estimation of inertia constant of low inertia microgrids is presented. Based on the frequency measurements obtained in response to a non-intrusive excitation signal from an ESS, the inertia constant was estimated using local measurements from the ESS’s phase-locked loop. The proposed MHE formulation was first tested in a linearized power system model, followed by tests in a modified microgrid benchmark from Cordova, Alaska. Even under moderate measurement noise, the technique was able to estimate the inertia constant of the system well within ±20% of the true value. Estimates provided by the proposed method could be utilized for applications such as fast-frequency support, adaptive protection schemes, and planning and procurement of spinning reserves.
Training controllers for robustness: multi-stream DEKF

Kalman-filter-based training has been shown to be advantageous in many training applications. By its nature, extended Kalman filter (EKF) training is realized with instance-by-instance updates, rather than by performing updates at the end of a batch of training instances or patterns. Motivated originally by the desire to be able to base an update an a collection of instances, rather than just one, we recognized that the simple construct of multiple streams of training examples allows a batch-like update to be performed without violating an underlying principle of Kalman training, vis. that the approximate error covariance matrix remain consistent with the updates that have actually been performed. In this paper, we present this construct and show how it may be used to train robust controllers, i.e. controllers that perform well for a range of plants. >
Applying e-transportation to traffic evacuation management under human-caused threats

As part of intelligent transportation systems, Internet-connected sensors and cameras have become ubiquitous along roads and highways, enabling many novel e-transportation applications. In this paper, we leverage this emerging technology to improve and support homeland security. In particular, we propose two evacuation algorithms, all-links and fastest-links, and perform simulation studies to compare their effectiveness and efficiency in handling single and multiple incidents scenarios. These algorithms are part of a smart traffic evacuation management system (STEMS) being developed to provide rapid and efficient response to human-caused threats and disasters, by creating dynamic evacuation plans based on real-time traffic information obtained from sensor data available through the Internet.
Applying fuzzy cognitive-maps knowledge-representation to failure modes effects analysis

A failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) seeks to determine how a system will behave in the event of a device failure. It involves the integration of several expert tasks to select components for analysis, determine failure modes, predict failure effects, propose corrective actions, etc. During an FMEA, numerical values are often not available or applicable and qualitative thresholds and linguistic terms such as high, slightly high, low, etc., are usually more relevant to the design than numerical expressions. Fuzzy set theory and fuzzy cognitive maps provide a basis for automating much of the reasoning required to carry out an FMEA on a system. They offer a suitable technique to allow symbolic reasoning in the FMEA instead of numerical methods, thus providing human like interpretations of the system model under analysis, and they allow for the integration of multiple expert opinions. This paper describes how fuzzy cognitive maps can be used to describe a system, its missions, failure modes, their causes and effects. The maps can then be evaluated using both numerical and graphical methods to determine the effects of a failure and the consistency of design decisions.
Concurrent and longitudinal relations among conscientiousness, stress, and self-perceived physical health

Abstract In the present study we tested the inoculation hypothesis of the effect of conscientiousness on health. We tested the inoculation hypothesis using both cross-sectional and longitudinal methods. We used a representative sample of US citizens ( N = 2136 for Wave 1 and N = 1170 for Wave 2), which completed the Chernyshenko Conscientiousness Scales, Perceived Stress Scale, and SF-36 measure of physical health twice over a three-year period. Stress partially mediated the relation between conscientiousness and health. Changes in conscientiousness were related to changes in stress over time and changes in stress partially mediated the association between changes in conscientiousness and changes in self-reported health. The relevance of stress to the conscientiousness–health relation is discussed.
Using stable isotopes and isotope ratio mass spectrometry to study mineral metabolism in humans: Invited lecture

Micronutrient deficiencies are enormous problems globally. Iron deficiency alone may affect 2 billion people, of whom at least 500 million are anaemic. Stable isotopes provide many methods to study mineral metabolism in humans. These range from relatively simple measurements of absorption, and endogenous faecal excretion, to complex studies using multi-compartmental modelling. Most studies use highly enriched stable isotope tracers administered intravenously and/or orally, coupled with precise measurements of the resulting isotopic enrichment in blood, urine or faeces. Stable isotope methodologies are becoming much more widely utilised due to the decreasing cost of isotopes and increasing acceptance of these methods. Two factors that have hampered broader use of stable isotope-based methods are the cost and limited availability of analytical methods that can measure isotope enrichments with sufficient precision, and at acceptable cost, in biological samples. In this article I will discuss the importance of micronutrient deficiencies globally, review some of the many stable isotope-based methodologies, and describe the analytical methods currently available. Highly enriched isotopes are becoming more available at acceptable cost. Currently, the greatest hurdle limiting wider use of stable isotope-based methods is the availability of sufficiently precise, accurate and cost-effective analysis of isotope ratios in biological samples. High-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HR-ICP-MS), which is becoming more accessible, promises adequate precision at reasonable cost. It seems likely that HR-ICP-MS will be increasingly adopted as an analytical methodology, which will encourage collaborations between mass spectrometrists and clinicians/nutritionists. Such collaborations will benefit all participants, and increase understanding and knowledge about important micronutrient deficiencies worldwide.
Two differing presentations, treatments, and outcomes of malignant choroidal melanoma.

Abstract Background Choroidal melanomas represent the most common primary malignancy of the eye. As primary eye care providers, optometrists must be able to identify suspicious lesions to facilitate proper referrals and timely treatment. Metastasis occurs in approximately 75% of cases. Ongoing studies such as the Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study are bringing new information on how to best manage choroidal melanoma. Current treatments include enucleation, plaque brachytherapy, and transpupillary thermotherapy. Case report Two patients presented to the Veterans Affairs (VA) Illiana Health Care System optometry clinic for routine visits and had malignant melanomas diagnosed. The first patient was in for a 6-month routine glaucoma follow-up, noting that the right eye seemed to be worse. The second patient was new, complaining of a painful, red eye. Both were referred to a retinal specialist and later treated by an ocular oncologist with enucleation and plaque brachytherapy, respectively. Their differing chief complaints and cases are discussed. Conclusion Patients with malignant choroidal melanomas present with a wide variety of complaints, and optometrists need to be diligent in properly assessing the cause of seemingly common conditions, such as anterior uveitis, as well as performing routine dilated fundus examinations. Given the relationship between size and prognosis, early detection is important.
Isolation of cDNA clones of genes induced upon transfer of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells to low CO2

Unicellular algae grow well under limiting CO2 conditions, aided by a carbon concentrating mechanism (CCM). In C. reinhardtii, this mechanism is inducible and is present only in cells grown under low CO2 conditions. We constructed a cDNA library from cells adapting to low CO2, and screened the library for cDNAs specific to low CO2-adapting cells. Six classes of low CO2-inducible clones were identified. One class of clone, reported here, represents a novel gene associated with adaptation of cells to air. A second class of clones corresponds to the air-inducible periplasmic carbonic anhydrase I (CAH1). These clones represent genes that respond to the level of CO2 in the environment.
Diabetes: advances and controversies.

This special issue of Clinical Chemistry focuses on diabetes mellitus. Diabetes has been recognized for more than 3500 years, since an early description in 1552 BCE in the Ebers Papyrus. Surviving texts from the ancient Greeks, Chinese, Indians, and Persians also refer to the disease, which was subsequently named diabetes mellitus. The recent dramatic increase in the worldwide prevalence of diabetes has led to the term “diabetes epidemic.” In the US, the prevalence in the period from 1999 to 2002 was 9.3% (of which 30% was estimated to be undiagnosed) (1). More recent data from 2005 and 2006 indicate that 42 million adults in the US have diabetes (2). Of concern is that in 40% of these individuals (approximately 16 × 106) the disease has not been diagnosed. Current projections are that by 2050, 33% of the US adult population will have diabetes (Fig. 1A) (3). The high prevalence and projected large increases are not confined to the US. The worldwide prevalence of diabetes among adults (20–79 years) is estimated to be currently 6.4% (285 × 106) and will increase to 439 × 106 by 2030 (4). Between 2010 and 2030, the number of affected adults is projected to increase by 69% in developing countries and by 20% in developed countries (Fig. …
A Least-Squares Scaling Technique for Comparing Grades in Different Schools

(1966). A Least-Squares Scaling Technique for Comparing Grades in Different Schools. The Journal of Experimental Education: Vol. 35, No. 1, pp. 48-53.
Identification of early proteins coded by bacteriophage P22.

Abstract Twelve early proteins coded by phage P22 have been resolved by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis of labeled infected cell lysates. Four early gene products, those of genes 12, 17, int, and erf, was identified by their absence in amber mutant-infected lysates. Several additional nonessential proteins were identified by their absence from lysates of cells infected with a deletion mutant, bp5, which is missing a portion of the early region of the chromosome. Mutations in genes 12 and 23 prevent normal expression of the phage-coded late proteins, and a mutation in gene 24 prevents expression of early and late protein synthesis. These last findings support the notion that P22 protein synthesis is controlled by two sequentially acting positive regulation elements, the products of genes 24 and 23, which serve functions analogous to the gene N and Q proteins of phage λ.
Application of cultured endothelial cells of the brain microvasculature in the study of the blood-brain barrier

The endothelial cells of the brain microvasculature provide both physical and enzymatic barriers to the exchange of molecules between the extracellular fluid environment of the brain and the systemic circulation. To better understand these barrier properties and the factors that influence them at the cellular level, an in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier has been developed using primary cultures of bovine brain microvessel endothelial cells. The focus of the present paper is on the procedures associated with the isolation, culturing, and maintenance of bovine brain microvessel endothelial cells. Experimental applications of the cell culture model in studying the blood-brain barrier and efforts directed at improving the current cell culture model are also discussed.
Design of a Torsion Tester for Measuring Murine Bone Properties for Studies on the Effects of Diabetes and Obesity

Conditions such as diabetes and obesity have been found to affect the mechanical integrity of bone. Studies have shown that diabetic rodent models exhibit lower levels of new bone formation during fracture healing1, lower bone mineral density (BMD)2, and increased risk of fracture3. There are differences, however, in the bone integrity of bone samples from type I and type II diabetics, which is most likely due to obesity2. Findings from research on obesity’s effects on bone integrity have been controversial; although there is an increase in bone mineral density (BMD) with increasing body mass index (BMI) and a decrease in fracture incidence in the central body regions in obese women compared to healthy weight women due to soft tissue padding, there is an increase in fracture incidence at extremeties4. Other studies have shown that while cortical bone strength may not be adversely affected by high-fat diets, cancellous bone BMD and mechanical strength was significantly lower in high-fat diet mice than low-fat diet mice5. In addition, extreme obesity has been associated with lower BMD despite the general trend of increased BMD with higher BMI6.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Trust and Adaptation in Relational Contracting

Trust, which occurs at the organizational and interpersonal levels, is generally believed to be important for the success ol interfirm relationships. We explore the effects of interaction between the two types of trust on negotiators' motivation to solve problems of adaptation in relational contracting. What we find is that too much trust is as bad as too little. Solutions are furthest from optimal when both organizational and interpersonal trust are high or both are low.